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.

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'm sorry for taking so long to update! Another important character returns and stays! Guess who...

Enjoy the fic!



Chapter seven (7): A Dying Bed for Mordor





They had been traveling for two days and two nights, no rest was given even for the very weary. Ffion stayed close to Aza, never more than a meter away at the most. Things between Kai and Aragorn still hadn't let up either. The tension now felt amongst the Fellowship grew strong and it seemed hopeless to all that it would ever go away.

"Kai?" Aza whispered from her perch atop a large rock. Her sister gave her a quick glance but then let her gaze fall again.

"What is it Azalynne? I have no time for your fun and games..."

"No fun or games, I'm afraid. I would like to say, however, that we have reached the edge of the wood, we are coming to Lorien." With that announcement everyone looked up, all with sighs of relief and content smiles of glee.

"We have made it! Oh, peace, here is rest for us yet!" Boromir grunted taking a seat next to Aza on the rock.

"Boromir, get up, we have a way to go yet until we can have rest." The Ranger spoke, moving ahead of the others as he saw a wild band of Orcs heading north to Moria.

"We keep moving, then, until we come into view of the Queen herself." Kai muttered, sending a withering glare in Aragorn's direction. He pretended not to notice this act of rudeness and nodded, agreeing with what she had just said.

"Ffion, take Frodo for he seems to have lost all strength in him." The smaller Sea Elf instructed to the snowy wolf. The canine looked uncertain for a moment, looking back and forth between Elf and Hobbit before she moved over to the Ring bearer.

They then continued, avoiding the wild Orcs as best they could for the time being. After crossing what appeared to be rocky terrain and grassy fields the trees began to grow thick, soon to surround the Fellowship fully.

"Now here is where I belong." Kai smiled her first true smile in ages, or it seemed that way to Aza for the others never truly saw the Elf-Princess smile before, not even to her own flesh and blood.

Ffion gave a bark of approval and followed the crimson haired Elf into the wood, making sure the Hobbit had not yet fallen off first. Aza and Gimli followed, Legolas and the other Hobbits behind them. Pippin gave a small yelp as he tripped, his feet finally giving way from their long journey there.

"Here, Pip, ride the wolf. I can walk now, my feet no longer hurt." Frodo said jumping off Ffion as the she-wolf slowed down. Peregrin nodded his thanks and climbed on with the help of his two cousins.

"Stay close young Hobbits!" Came the strained cry from up ahead. The voice of Gimli was desperate to get them over to where he was standing so he may keep and eye on them. "They say that a great sorceress lives in these woods. An Elf-Witch of terrible power. All who look upon her fall under her spell," As the Dwarf said this he kept his watch on the forest around them, trying to see if anything was coming. "And are never seen again."

Frodo gave a gasp, as if hearing something. Kai turned around, letting the others pass her as she waited for the Halfling to reach where it was she stood. Her ring began to give off a faded glow of blue as if to explain her actions. She didn't know why but it seemed to her that she knew what had to be done on her part. Using all her strength she probed the young ones mind, listening to any unwanted voices that may have entered his head.

~You are coming to us as is the footsteps of doom... You bring great evil here, Ring bearer.

Kai felt herself fall, her mind becoming her own again as she left Frodo to his thoughts or that of the other, a somewhat shocked looked on her face from what she had just done.

"Mr. Frodo?" Sam scuttered over, wearing a worried look as he reached out to his best friend, putting a reassuring hand on his shoulder.

"Well, here's one Dwarf she won't ensnare so easily. I have the eyes of a hawk and the ears of a fox." At the last word the wolf gave another bark before stopping and sniffing the air. Slowly she began to back away from whatever she thought was hunting them.

"Ffion? Myni gwneuthur lye clywed [49]?" The mahogany haired Elfling asked, raising her blue gemmed dagger for protection. Ffion gave an additional growl before, quite suddenly; they were delimited by Elves, each with a bow and arrow in their hands.

"Next time bark sooner." Kai growled, taking out her own dagger and holding to one of the fair Elves throat.

"A Dwarf breathes so loud we could have shot him in the dark." One of the flaxen haired creatures ridiculed, emerging from behind the other warriors.

"Haldir o Lorien. Henio aniron, boe ammen I dulu lin. Boe ammen veriad lin [50]." Strider said softly, bowing his head in respect. Aza and the Hobbits looked utterly dumbfounded at this gesture for they have never heard of Haldir before and it seemed to them that they neither cared too much about it just so long as they lived.

"Aragorn! These woods are perilous. We should go back!" Gimli breathed, inching away from the impending arrow.

"You have entered the realm of the Lady of the Wood. You cannot go back. Come, she is waiting." Haldir said, looking at Kai who did not seem too pleased. "Lady Kai, please lower your weapon if you wish to enter or we shall leave you here."

"Do not call me 'Lady' for I am none. I shall not be insulted by the mouth of a Taur'quessir [51]!"

Haldir said nothing to this; instead he turned, signaling for the Fellowship to follow him.

*

They walked some way into a beautifully lit forest where the trees gave off their own heavenly glow. Frodo looked up, seeing Elves high in the trees peering down at the new comers.

"We stop here. You bring evil to these woods, you can go no further." Their guide stated after finishing the climb up the many stairs. His eyes held a great hate towards the young Ring bearer though he himself did not know why.

"What? You mean to tell me that we have just climbed all these stairs for you to say 'turn back, we don't want you here'!? A little pointless, dare I say."

"Azalynne, keep quiet, lest we be thrown out of here."

"Sorry, Kai, I think we already have been!" The two sisters came nose to nose, neither will to back down. Kai glared hard at her youngest sibling, standing her ground while Aragorn went to compromise.

"Do not speak to me in such a way, Azalynne Driftwood, for I fear your life will come to a close..."

"Such harsh words coming from a nobody, don't you think?" The cerulean eyed girl snarled back.

"Please, both of you calm yourselves. We grow exhausted of hearing your bickering." Boromir uttered, resting his head on his left hand as he watched Frodo with curious eyes and evil intentions.

Ffion gave a loud howl, seeing this gaze as a threat to the little one, causing both Klicia and Aza to snap out of their argument and move over to where Frodo had seated himself.

"Advert your eyes, human, we do not like what we see in their depths for what they hold is only malevolence." Green eyes became mere slits as Kai said this, putting a hand on Frodo's back.

"What trouble do we have here?" Haldir asked, coming back into things.

"No trouble, Master Elf. Now, will you lead us on?" Gimli questioned a little rough in tone.

"Yes, Aragorn has given me good reason to. Now come, we must hurry." Once again they stood, following the Elf to where the Lady of the Wood was waiting for them. They marched through the forest, none willing to rustle the leaves that lay softly on the ground.

"Hurry on, Sam. We have no time for dawdling." The crimson haired Elf maid said, her voice becoming soft. She seemed more content with their new surroundings, almost at home in the clutter of leaves and branches. As if reading his thoughts Aza turned to Sam and said,

"Back home she spent a lot of her time in the forest, never really coming for a visit. She loves being with the creatures there and they shared her feelings. My father disliked the fact that she was never at home where she should be practicing to be Lady but good old Kai never gave up and stayed there. What a tale that was! Din talked father out of scolding her but made her give up our name. Instead she took on Woodwater."

"She didn't like 'ome then?" The hazel eyed boy inquired his brow furrowing.

"Not in the least but she was soon forced to come home after dark and sleep in the palace to show some respect towards father and mother. Naturally she snuck out later in the evenings and would take me along with her if I asked!"

"Don't tell her this but I find her kind of odd." Merry piped in, adding his thoughts to the conversation.

"So do most, Meriadoc, so do most."

Ahead of them, Haldir halted, waiting for the others to catch up behind him. "We are here, the centre of the Wood where her Ladyship dwells." He took them down to the foot of the mountain of trees and then into the very heart of the woodland. Afresh they saw the leaves glow their own dim light and tops of trees reach far into the ocean of the clouds above. More Elves appeared but they were all wearing well-crafted armor of only the best make to protect Galadriel, the Queen of Elves.

They didn't wait long, standing at the foot of another set of stairs. Only after a few moments was she seen, her long golden hair in soft curls that flowed down her back. She was, by far, the fairest of the fair folk. Her husband, Lord Celeborn, came down beside her, his hand holding hers.

"Ten that there are here, yet eleven set out from Ralgonnia. Tell me, where is Gandalf for I much desire to speak with him." The Lord said his voice deep and rich.

"He has fallen into shadow," Galadriel gasped, seeking the information in the mind of the Ranger.

Kai bowed her head, holding her sister close by her for she knew the girl would break into choked sobs at any second. This sudden act of affection, on her part, caused some surprise amongst their friends. But that soon died when their eyes found Galadriel once more.

"The quest stands upon the edge of a knife. Stray but a little and it will fail to the ruin of all." The Lady of Lights eyes fell upon Boromir who, at the moment, was very uncomfortable.

"Yet hope remains while the company is true." A smile made its way to her lips as she looked into Sam's mind and his happy visions of Rosie and what life could be like after the wars. "Do not let your hearts be troubled. Go now and rest, for you a weary with sorrow and much toil. Tonight you will sleep in peace..."

Frodo gave a gasp as something was said in his mind which he did not very much like.

"Frodo? Oh bless the hearts of all it is you! Frodo!!!" A new voice called out of the darkness. Everyone turned in this direction or that to try and find the source of the voice but the source had found them first.

"R-Ruby? What are you doing here?" Merry coughed seeing the girl race out to them, giving her friends hugs and kisses. Galadriel didn't seem to mind this for she knew the Hobbit girl was there; after all she had been the one to invite her in.

"A white wolf brought me here just like that Elf maid had said! I was very much surprised but I decided to take up the offer and-"

"Wait, hold on," Frodo interrupted, placing a finger over her lips to quiet the excited girl for a moment. "What offer and who offered it?" Ruby looked around for a minute before pointing at Kai. With laughter in her eyes but a stern expression the woman stepped forward.

"I am sorry, Frodo, but honestly I didn't think she would take up my offer to come. I just wanted her to see you one last time before the journey became the death of you."

"I couldn't help but come! I know you asked me not to but I had to see you again. Please forgive me..." The hazel eyed girl looked down at her feet, a small blush creeping onto her cheeks.

"I-I don't know what to say except that, well, I guess I'm glad to see you too." With that the five Hobbits embraced, all laughing and cheering as they enjoyed the new company of a very old friend.

"I believe it is time for rest. Haldir, show the Fellowship where they will be staying for the night and give them food to eat for I am sure they are weary with hunger." Celeborn ordered, motioning for the Elf to hurry.

"Yes My Lord." The eleven turned, making their way down the steps that they had took so long to travel up.

"There is no point to this. Why must we wander so far to see a Lady in white who doesn't say very much and what she does say isn't very wonderful in itself!" Aza whined, pouting.

Ruby giggled, pulling the Elf child along behind her as the two skipped stairs to the bottom. Frodo followed, watching his friend with interest.

"Ruby," he called over to her. The hazel eyed girl stopped mid-step and turned to face him, "What made you change your mind to leave Bilbo?"

His question didn't surprise the Hobbit maid as she smiled sweetly back. "You," e ca;He He

*

"A lament for Gandalf." Legolas muttered under his breath, holding a silver pitcher of water. The Hobbits were crouched beneath a great tree root, their blankets and things ready for sleeping. Ruby sat huddled next to Frodo, his surprise about her arrival there still seen in his eyes and on his face.

"What do they say about him?" Merry asked, hearing the light melody and the low, hushed voices of the Elves as they sung.

"I have not the heart to tell you, for me the grief is still too near."

Azalynne could be found in the fountain, hydrating her skin as the water drenched her new white robe that was given to her by the Galadhrim for the evening. Kai sat on the edge of the double layered spring, pouring the water over herself with the silver pitcher Legolas brought her. His act of kindness towards her didn't go ignored by the others as they all shared a secretive smile between each other.

"Diola lle [52]," She said, letting the water dispense onto her head, through her hair and down her back.

"Lle creoso[53]," He murmured back watching the two as they splashed themselves with the liquid.

Close to where the Men were to take rest Boromir sat, his head in his hands, contemplating his doom and the fall of Mankind.

"Take some rest. These borders are well protected." A low voice said from behind him. He just shook his head without looking up.

"I will find no rest here," He whispered finally, looking out to the world beyond him. "I heard her voice inside my head. She spoke of my father and the fall of Gondor. She said to me 'Even now there is hope left' but I cannot see it. It is long since we have had any hope."

Aragorn took a seat beside him, listening to his story.

"My father is a noble man, but his rule is failing. And then our... Our people lose faith. He looks to me to make things right, and I, I would do it. I would see the glory of Gondor restored. Have you ever seen it Aragorn? The white tower of Ecthelion. Glimmering like a spike of pearl and silver. Its banners caught high in the morning breathe. Have you ever been called home by the clearing of silver trumpets?"

"I have seen the White City. Long ago." Strider stated, following Boromir's gaze to where Frodo slept. He saw as Azalynne stepped out of the fountain and lay down, under the blankets she was given next to her friend and now Ring bearer. Her head of wet hair rested on that of Ruby's and the three slept contently, unaware of the dangers outside the borders of Lothlorien.

"One day our paths will lead us there. And the tower guard shall take up the call: 'The Lords of Gondor have returned!'"

*

Frodo awoke with a start, pushing Azalynne and Ruby off of him so he may stand and breathe a little.

As he sat, staring at the stars he heard something, the sound of footsteps atop the grass. He lifted his head and followed the sound, seeing Galadriel heading somewhere unknown. In curiosity he followed, making sure to stay out of sight though he knew in his heart of hearts she sensed his presence moving clumsily behind her.

She stopped after reaching a large round object place delicately on a rock. The Lady of Light reached out, filling a silver pitcher with water. Frodo came down the steps to the circular clearing of stone and water.

"Will you look into the mirror?" She asked, now opposite him.

"What will I see?"

"Even the wisest cannot tell. For the mirror shows many things. Things that were, things that are and some things that have not yet come to pass." Her voice was haunting but Frodo neared the mirror as she let the water empty into the small pool.

He looked in, frightened of what might be seen. At first he saw Legolas and then his friends, Merry, Sam and Ruby. They all looked sad and grave. He then saw the Shire as it was when he left it, a happy place with its many farms and mills. But that changed in a flash. Things began to burn; Orcs ran free, chaining some Hobbits together and killing others. He saw Sam in a line of Halflings all bound together as an Orc of the foulest kind whipped him for not moving faster.

Azalynne followed next, her face dirty and splashed with blood as she held her side. She looked up as if she could see Frodo watching her in this horrible vision. Another Elf came, his hair a fiery red, like Kai's, and green eyes. He looked as if he was chasing something but that was short lived as another vision interrupted that one.

An eye wreathed on flame appeared drawing the Ring towards it. Frodo tried as hard as he could to straighten himself up but he couldn't. With an idea in his head he grabbed hold of the Ring but the force caused him to fly backwards to the ground.

"I know what is it you saw. For it is also in my mind." Galadriel said in a hushed tone of voice.

~ It is what will come to pass if you should fail. The Fellowship is breaking. It has already begun. He will try and take the Ring. You know of whom I speak. One by one it will destroy them all.

"If you ask it of me, I will give you the One Ring." The dark haired Hobbit said weakly, holding the desired trinket out to her.

"You offer it to me freely? I do not deny that my heart has greatly desired this." As she spoke she moved towards the open hand, lifting her own in attempt to take the Ring.

"In place of a Dark Lord you shall have a QUEEN!" A grim light formed around her, changing her appearance, making it seem far more evil than fair. "NOT DARK BUT BEAUTIFUL AND TERRIBLE AS THE DAWN! TREACHEROUS AS THE SEA! STRONGER THAN THE FOUNDATIONS OF THE EARTH! ALL SHALL LOVE ME AND DESPAIR!" The light faded and her breathing became hard as she tried to regain her composure.

"I pass the test. I will diminish and go to the West and remain Galadriel."

"I cannot do this alone..." The little one whimpered.

"You are a ring bearer Frodo. To bear a Ring of Power is to be alone. This task was appointed to you. And if you do not find a way, no one will."

"Then I know what I must do. It's just, I'm afraid to do it."

"Even the smallest person can change the course of the future." The She-Elf said leaning in towards him.

*

The dawn was soon upon them, the light drifting over the two Elf maids as they slept. A twig snapped from Kai's right, jerking her awake.

"Whoever you are, stay back for I do not look kindly on those who wish to fight..." She growled, finding her voice at that early hour. The intruder emerged from the shadows, his fair-hair reflecting the suns rays.

"Haldir..." The scarlet haired She-Elf sighed, and then realized he had wakened her. "Haldir," This time his name came out in a harsh breath, "What do you think you are doing!? Coming her and awakening me before we leave on another long journey? I need my rest, you know, I am not nocturnal!?"

"Klicia, wake you sister, her Ladyship requests word with you." Was all the man said as he walked away, leaving Kai to her own thoughts and mad threats.

"Why in Middle Earth would she want to see us this early in the morn'? If I were back home I would have her taken away and thrown in the cells!"

"Impossible, Kai, for you have left the palace and we have no cells." The sleepy voice of Azalynne broke through her views on things as the girl shuffled around for her boots. "When are we to meet Galadriel?"

"If you were awake the whole time then why did you not yell at Haldir instead of me? I could have gone back to sleep."

"Because I love to torture you, now let's go." After pulling her sister up the two made their way to the Queen.

*

Haldir had pointed them in the direction of a small enclose area, surrounded by guards of another Elven race. They wore more of a blackish armor and their cloaks were deep crimson as if they had been dipped in flame and come out as ash.

"Who are they?" Aza asked her elder sister but the Ralgonnian just shrugged her shoulders and continued on.

"Ahh, there you are. We have been waiting." Galadriel smiled, motioning them to sit down in one of few wooden chairs but the two refused. "We have called you here to discuss the will of the Clans. As you know our kind is leaving for the war has begun. Our sources tell us that many have left the shores already and passed through the gates of Lhachinen."

"Already? How can this be?" Kai murmured. Her head lowered, "Who told you this?"

"I did, my name is Lith. I rule over the land of Lhachinen with strong hand. My people are willing to fight along side Men but my father has refused it. I come to ask for help from the Galadhrim."

"You know we cannot help you, Lith of Lhachinen, we have discussed this before and refused." Celeborn remembered, his blue eyes meeting her grey ones.

"Yes I know but I have come to ask you to reconsider!"

"There are other Elven Clans." His Lordship stated.

"Not many. It was yesterday at daybreak when the Elves of the Wood passed through our kingdom and left to Valinor. It is a sign that you must either leave or stay and help me fight!" Lith stood, nearing Galadriel with anger in her tone.

The Galadhrim moved in front of her, not letting her any further towards their Queen.

"Stand back, Elf of the Flame," At the word 'flame' Aza and Kai stepped back, "You are not to move any further!" Haldir growled.

"The Water Elves of the Western Sea are ready to leave and are coming in three months from Ralgonnia-"

"When was this said!? Our father gave no such command!" Kai breathed, stepping forward again, her anger hiding her fear of the flame.

"My lady, he gave this notice a month ago. I thought you would have known."

"No, we didn't know. As King he should know that the leaving of the Stone of Ages [54] will cause our strength to diminish! How could he-"

"Kai, quiet yourself." Aza groaned turning to face this messenger, "Do you know the exact date he and our kind are leaving?"

"No, he only gave us word three days ago when ten of your people came with the goods requested." This news was shocking for the two sisters were unaware of any 'goods' that were ever requested from a land they have never heard of.

"Goods?" Aza demanded.

"We trade with your people frequently; Lhachinen shares a border with Ralgonnia and that is why the Elves pass through my lands. It is the quickest way to the Grey Havens. I am afraid that you may have to turn back if you are to live without the Stone of Ages."

"We shall be fine without the Stone. Tell me; have any of the other clans left?" Kai asked, her gaze becoming sharp.

"Yes, the Ithil'quessir [55] has left just yesterday and the Amrun'quessir [56] before them." Lith informed.

"How can this be? Why do our people flee these shores in such a hurry?" Aza mumbled. "All these thoughts are hurting my head..."

"Because of the war, child. It is not long before the White Wizard takes over this land and destroys all that there is. I will stay and see the other Clans across the Sea, honestly, but I wish for them to stay and help. Fight Curunir and we may yet win!"

"We can't. Neither of our people have that sort of force!" Kai fumed, glaring at the woman ahead of her.

"Then leave."

"We shall not leave yet. Not until Frodo has made his decision and destroyed the Ring of Power!"

"The Ring is here!?"

"Yes, and will not be for long. The Fellowship is to depart this early morning when the sun is full." Celeborn put in before Kai had time to come up with another witty remark to bring the Elf of Fire down further.

"These lands are cursed. There is no hope left for Lothlorien. You must leave these shores soon. The Elves of Rivendell leave in less then a few months. Go with them and save what little there is for our kind." Lith breathed turning and signaling for the Elves that surrounded them to follow her.

"Ready the horses. We depart now." The She-Elf barked, brushing some of her deep auburn hair from her face.

"Does she not wish to stay and hear our decision as to what to do?" Haldir muttered, watching her as she mounted a grey stallion.

"I guess not. But I do agree with what she has said. We must fight back in order to save this land of old or there will no longer be a hope left for this world." Aza commented as the Fire Elf galloped off into the distance.

"If there ever was a hope to start off with," The green eyed maid said, scowling at the ground beneath her feet.

"There must have been, Klicia, for you followed the Fellowship without a heavy heart." The Lady of Light spoke softly.

"Maybe once but now her heart is as heavy as iron." The small Sea Elf chuckled, dodging a fist that came her way.

"Say that again and I shan't cook for you!"

"Then I have Sam!"

"I'll tell him not to cook for you either!"

"Now that is true cruelty!"

"That is why I am your sister." The two were shown the way back to the others for they needed to help ready the boats they were to use to cross the Great River.

"It is truly sad that our kind must leave but even with all our magic, skill and wisdom of a thousand Ages of Sun we cannot and do not have the power to stop Sauron!" Celeborn whispered when the Elves of the Myriad Waters were out of ear-shot.

"Do not fear what is to happen; only know what you think you can do to help what will pass." Galadriel smiled.

*

The rising of the sun came too soon and the Fellowship was readying themselves for their journey to the Great River.

They were called to another council, with much complaining and groaning from Azalynne for she had claimed to see enough of the Lady for that day.

They stood before the Lord and Lady, waiting for what it was they had to say.

"We have readied boats for you, should you choose to leave. How many wish to continue on this journey forth to great power and your most definite doom."

"Nice way to put it." Merry said under his breath.

"We shall not desert Frodo now. We all stand beside him until he very much wills it so that we must leave him." Kai stated in a strong voice.

"Then I shall give word that the boats be furnished with food and your packs." The Lord said. The Lady of Light then stepped forward, nine others behind her, all holding something of great value.

"I have offerings to give you that may help you on your way. You may ask for what you wish as well if you are not satisfied with what I have given you."

"That could never be true." Gimli coughed after she said this. She gave a light laugh then moved over to Aragorn.

"To the leader of the company," She said before Kai had time to insult his position. "Any blade that is sheathed by this sword shall neither be stained, nor broken."

The man nodded his thanks as he gratefully took the sword.

"Is there nothing you wish for though?" Her ladyship asked before moving onto the next in the line of races.

"You know what it is I whish but it is not in your place to give it." Aragorn responded.

To the other Man she gave a golden belt and to the two mischievous cousins she gave Elven daggers.

"They have been used before in battle." She added after giving them their gifts. They looked them over in awe for the make was like no other. To Sam she gave a long coil of Elven rope of only the strongest kind.

"I don't suppose you have any more of those nice, shiny daggers, do you?" He questioned but was only answered with a fair smile. Next was Legolas to whom she bestowed a wonderfully made bow, similar to that of which the Galadhrim used. Standing next to the Woodland Elf was Gimli the Dwarf.

"And what do you wish for?"

"Nothing more than to gaze upon the Lady one last time." He blushed, lowering his gaze away from hers. Galadriel chuckled but yet pressed him to ask for a more suitable gift for her to give. "Actually, maybe you can give me something. A lock of your hair to help me remember you by." The Lady's smile broadened as she pulled not one but three hairs from her head.

"And you, Ruby of the Shire folk?"

"I wish for the abilities that would help me protect Frodo wherever he may wander to." The Hobbit's hazel eyes glimmered as she looked up into the indigo eyes of the Lady of the Wood.

"You have what strength you need to protect your friend in times of need, Ruby Proudfoot, for your heart holds more bravery than any warrior this world has seen." With that said a small pinkish tinge made its way to the girls cheeks.

"Then I ask of no more than a blessing to see me on my way."

"You have my blessing and may it be of some comfort to you but I still grant you this. A blanket that shall keep you warm in cold times and give you dreams of peace."

"Thank you, My Lady."

"Farewell Frodo Baggins. I give you the light of Earendil, our most beloved star." Galadriel said when she reached the last person in line, handing the Ring Bearer a phial of the light it had caught. "May it be a light for you in dark places, when all other lights go out."

Later Merry and Pippin sat in one of the Elven boats watching Legolas as he helped pack the supplies Celeborn had offered them.

"Lembas bread," The flaxen haired Elf smiled, taking a bite of the Elvish food. "One bite of this could fill the stomach of a grown man." He looked at the two then turned back to get some more of the supplies.

Merry leaned in next to Pippin and whispered, "How many have you had?"

"Four." The other answered. His response was followed by a burp.

From the shore Celeborn walked along side Aragorn, telling him news of the borders and what had been seen. "Take this, you may yet need it." The Elf Lord handed Aragorn a sheathed blade for extra protection.

"Thank you," He said before heading in the direction of the boats. "Come on, everyone. We have a long journey ahead of us." Strider called, lifting Sam into one of the four boats. Ruby then followed in the canoe with Kai and Aza.

As soon as all and sundry were assorted into the different boats they pushed off from shore. Boromir stayed close to Aragorn as the Ranger led the way out of Lorien. Many of the Elves stood on the bridge that connected one shore to another, waving and watching as the eleven comrades left on a journey to sure doom.

The Lady's voice was heard, singing in the breeze as they floated downstream. As they got farther and farther away her voice soon mingled with the winds of the south and rustle of the leaves.

"I wished not to depart from her Wood." Sam sighed, watching the water ripple beneath the weight of the boat as it glided through the calm surface.

"Nor did any of us Samwise but it was a choice we had no choice to make!" Ruby giggled from her boat where she sat chattering with Aza. The Hobbit girl turned, going back to her conversation about the council called by Celeborn and the giving of the gifts.

"What did you ask for Aza?" She pressed, unwrapping a piece of Lembas bread to eat.

"Why so curious?"

"Because both you and Kai were pulled aside for your gift-giving." She remembered. The sisters had been asked separately for some unknown reason about the wishes they should make.

"Well, if you must know I asked for something that should prove quite functional in later days."

"Yes but what did you get?"

"I can't tell you that, sorry. If I could I would but I can't." The child apologized and helped her elder sibling paddle.

"Alright, then, if you truly can't,"

"She truly can't," Kai said for Aza.

They rowed on, stopping when the sun went down and continuing when day would break each morning. It took them nearly three days to reach the mouth of the River for Boromir was not a born paddler and he lagged along behind the others. At times Aragorn would switch and have Kai and Aza paddle the human's boat.

Night had fallen upon the Fellowship once again, the moon hanging high in the evening sky. The Men sat talking to one another as they watched a stray log float by.

"Gollum," Strider stated, following Boromir's gaze. "He has been following us. I thought that we would lose him on the river but he is far too skilled a waterman."

"Why does he pursue us so?" Boromir asked in wonderment.

"His love for the Ring brings him forth. He would not follow otherwise."

"Should we keep watch on Frodo tonight, Aragorn? He is so in love with that trinket that he could be dangerous?" The mahogany haired Elfling whispered, stepping with light footsteps a little ways onto the water's surface.

"No, he cannot do anything with this many people here to kill him. He will not strike until the moment is right."

"That is little comfort to me, Heruamin [57], but I will trust your judgment."



*

They rowed on, finding themselves victim to another set of rapids and hurried waters.

"We must be getting close!" Strider called over the sounds of rushing water.

"Close to where? All I see is unpleasant thoughts about some waterfall and me going down it!" Pippin cried as he was tossed from side to side like a rag doll as they skillfully rounded a large rock that stood in their path.

"Hobbits are no more in boats then Dwarves are on horses." Kai quoted from what she recalled Gandalf used to say.

"No, close to where we must end up." The Ranger called back, some laughter in his voice, ignoring what Kai had said.

"These waters are making me feel ill..." Ruby said to herself, not wanting the others to know and end up worrying.

"We can fix that, Miss Hobbit." Kai grinned reassuringly, not something she was used to doing, mind you.

"How?"

"Simple," Aza began then turned to face her sister, "Shall we?" Kai nodded and the two grasped hands. Their rings began to glow a crystal blue and the light started to hug closely to the bodies.

"Namrie olynn farer kanrie Rihouhen, onran myrhir frin krenyr [58]." The royals chanted, their voices getting stronger as they said this over again. The fourth time it was said the waters began to calm, the rushing ceased, and the sounds became no more than mere memory.

"How did you...?" Pippin trailed off as the glow shimmered then faded.

"As we said, Peregrin, our rings hold more magic then either of us alone." Aza sniggered.

"They are Elves of the Sea, Pippin. Whatever magic they hold from that they can increase when they use their rings." Aragorn explained for he knew the siblings would just continue with their inane riddles.

"Oh,"

Some time later Strider gave Frodo a tap on the shoulder, "Frodo, the Argornath," He said, looking up at the two statues carved into the large mountains on either side of the river. "Long have I desired to look upon the Kings of Old. My kin."

*

They had stopped to take rest on the western shore of Nen Hithoel [59], near the Rauros Falls [60].

"We cross the lake at nightfall, hide the boats and continue on foot." Strider announced unpacking a few things while Frodo lifted Ruby out of her boat. "We approach Mordor from the north."

"Oh yes? Just a simple matter off finding our way through Emyn Muil? An impossible labyrinth of razor sharp rocks? And after that, it gets even better! Festering, stinking marshlands, as far as the eye can see!" Gimli taunted his voice sarcastic. Pippin, who had been feasting on some bread from Ralgonnia had slowed his chewing to look back and forth between Human and Dwarf.

After a long pause the Man spoke, "That is our road," the Hobbit nearly choked on his food, "I suggest you take some rest and recover your strength, Master Dwarf."

"Recover my... phfwahh..." Gimli shook his head of ginger hair, utterly insulted by this remark.

"We should leave these shores." Kai suggested, not liking how things were going so far.

"No. Orcs patrol the eastern shore. We must wait for the cover of darkness." Aragorn replied, sitting down next to Ruby.

"It is not the eastern shore that worries us." Legolas put in, "A shadow and a threat has been growing in my mind. Something draws near. I can feel it."

Not listening to the others Gimli still sat muttering mad curses about recovering his strength. "Pay no heed to that, young Hobbit."

"Where's Frodo?" Ruby asked suddenly, realizing her friend was gone. Wandering eyes soon fell upon the shield of Gondor. Boromir had left as well.

"Aragorn, we must find Frodo while that man is out there. I do not trust him!" Aza growled.

"I will find him." The Ranger promised, leaving the camp fire in search of his young comrade.

*

Frodo had wandered off alone and was now reaching the ruins of an old city that had been there long ago. He found himself staring into the large face of a King of Old that had broken away from its stone body years before his arrival. Leaves rested on the top of its head and on the hollow of his nose.

"None of us should wander alone," A recognizable voice said from ahead. Frodo looked up and saw Boromir collecting wood for the fire the others had going down near the shoreline. "You least of all... So much depends on you."

The Hobbit took a step back into the stone face, now trapped with nowhere to run if need be.

"Frodo? I know why you seek solitude," The Man continued, coming closer to where the boy stood in masked fear. "You suffer; I see it day be day. Are you sure you do not suffer needlessly? There are other ways, Frodo. Other paths we might take."

"I know what you would say, and it would seem like wisdom but for the warning in my heart." Frodo snapped, no longer cowering and instead walking past the human man.

"Warning? Against what?" Boromir growled though he did not mean to. The strange feeling of corruption over took him again. That greed he had for power enveloping his very soul to it peek. He could not control what words left his mouth, the movements he took, nothing he did was from his own mind anymore but he was allowed to witness from behind the bars his soul was trapped in.

He neared Frodo who only backed away further, trying to escape him. "We're all afraid, Frodo, but to let that fear drive us to destroy what hope we have. Don't you see its madness?"

"There is no other way." The Shireling affirmed, trying not to sound bitter but even he couldn't hide his hate anymore. No matter how hard he tried he couldn't bring himself to like the man's presence whenever he had that particular look in his eye. The one that was always present when the Ring was nearby.

"I ask only for the strength to defend my people!" The strawberry blond hollered, throwing the wood he had gathered on the ground. "If you would but lend me the Ring..." He said cautiously, moving closer still.

"NO!" The Ring bearer cried, lunging himself backwards, away from the impending hands.

"Why do you recoil? I am no thief!"

"You are not yourself!"

"What chance do you think you have? They will find you, they will take the Ring. You will beg for death before the end!" Frodo turned himself around, walking away from the possessed human and his absurd threats that really weren't threats at all.

"You fool! It is not yours save by any unhappy chance!" The man advanced, his eye fixed on the Ring that hung around the Half-man's neck in plain view. The Halfling turned and ran as far as he could before he tripped.

"Give it to me! Give it to me!" Boromir lunged, grabbing Frodo's ankle and pulling him, struggling, down under him, trying to separate the Ring from its bearer.

"NO!" After his fearful shouts and pain filled groans the Baggins place the Ring unwillingly on his index finger, disappearing from view. Looking desperately around the Man searched, unable to see the little one. He turned back to where Frodo last lay and was hit in the jaw, sending him a little ways backwards.

After the pain subsided he began to cry out, calling to the Hobbit who had made his escape. "I see your mind! You will take the Ring to Sauron! You will betray us! You go to your death and the death of us all! Curse you; curse you and all the Halflings!"

The jade eyed man slipped then, falling over his cloak and down the hill, landing at the foot of a tree in a heap. The greedy anger had passed, slipping through him as if it had never been. "Frodo? Frodo. What have I done? Please, Frodo..."

"Frodo, I'm sorry!"

*

Frodo ran, his breath catching in his throat. He was running out of strength and the Ring was still on. Up ahead he saw the old ruins of a deserted watch tower. Deciding to climb the stairs he began to hear things. Bad things. Crouching low behind a large piece of debris he waited but the sounds never left him. Slowly peeking over the edge of the rock he saw the tower of Barad-dur and above it the eye of Sauron, watching him.

Forcing himself to take the Ring of he slouched, scrambling over and away from the great Eye. Losing his balance he fell to the hard forest floor, luckily landing on a small pile of gathered leaves.

"Frodo?" Someone asked. After rubbing his head and ignoring the pain the Hobbit looked up and saw Aragorn.

"It has taken Boromir!" The Halfling announced, looking down at his feet.

"Where is the Ring?" The Rangers voice sounded more demanding than worried, making it seem as if the power had taken him over as well.

"Stay away!"

"Frodo! I swore to protect you!"

"Can you protect me from yourself!?!" At this Strider looked taken aback, not knowing what to say next. He frowned, wondering if he had done or said something wrong to the little one to put him so on edge. Frodo grasped the Ring, holding out his hand to Aragorn; "Would you destroy it?"

The lord neared him, eyeing the Ring as a feeling of need came over him. He kneeled in front of Frodo, closing the boys hand over it.

"I would have gone with you to the very end. Into the very fires of Mordor."

"I know. Look after the others. Especially Sam and Ruby. They will not understand."

Something then caught Aragorn's eye as he looked down at the presently sheathed Sting.

"Go Frodo. Run... Run!" He stood up; making sure the Ring bearer was out of sight before he readied his blade. After a few seconds he saw them, at least one hundred of the foul creatures of the earth. Orcs...

They came, surrounding him, some racing by him to find the Halfling. Aragorn swung his sword, standing his ground as best he could. He hurled a dagger into the chest of one before lunging his sword into the back of another.

"Aragorn! Think you could take all the fame and glory for yourself, eh?" Aza chirped as she emerged from behind Legolas who was currently firing arrows every which way.

"Nice of you to join me!" The Ranger called down from where he now stood on the top of the watch tower, getting onto higher ground for better view of the enemy.

Kai and Gimli soon came into things as well. Azalynne spun around, plunging her sword deep into the body of an Orc, bringing the blade up and slicing his upper half in two. The blood spilled out of him, dirtying the child's face.

Kai jumped onto the back of one of the Goblin men, jabbing her dagger into its head while Legolas shot it from behind.

Some of the attacking army was trying to get past the small Dwarf but were running low on luck as he swung his axe, maiming few and killing many.

Elsewhere, Sam and Ruby hurried here and there, trying to find their friend before the Orcs got to him.

"Mr. Frodo!?" Sam cried out, looking behind a tree.

"Sam, over here!" The other hazel eyed Hobbit called over to him. "A piece of his cloak! It must've been torn off when he came a'wanderin'."

"Must've... Hurry, we have to find him!"

The two weaved in and out of trees, hiding when they thought they heard something.

"Find the Halfling!" Something cried from above them as they ducked behind a rock. From what they could see it was one of the Uruk-Hai. He stood; bow ready for when someone would attack. "Find the Halfling!" He ordered again, his voice hard and scratchy.

"Sam, come on, this way..." The female whispered to her companion as they crouched down low. She pointed him in the direction of the boats, crawling out when she thought there were no more of the attackers.

"Elendil [61]!" Aragorn cried, swinging his blade again. Legolas fired another arrow into one of the beast's chest, watching him as he fell, dead, on the floor of the wood.

"Kai, behind you!" Gimli grunted as he was hit in the chest. The Elf maid turned around quickly before the Orc had time to think and she unsheathed another dagger, thrusting it into the monster's head, between the eyes.

Gimli swung his axe again, missing this time as another of the creatures dodged his attack. The moment he was about to strike the beast tumbled to the ground, lifeless. Protruding from its back was an arrow not of the Ralgonnian make but of the Sindarin kind. The Dwarf nodded his thanks and continued in the battle with the others.

Now surrounded by three Orcs, Strider stood with his back to the stone wall of the watch tower. One of the monsters made a move but was shot down from behind by the flaxen haired Elf. Another was stabbed through the heart from the back as well and Azalynne appeared; giving a toothy smile, liking the fact that she was winning and these disgusting creatures were not.

"Aragorn, you must find Frodo!" Kai cried over to him.

"Yes, go!" Legolas said before loading his bow with not one but tow arrows.



Nearly halfway through the forest and back to the boats, Frodo ran, trying to find the potency in him to continue moving. Hearing the Orcs get closer behind him he ducked behind a tree, blending in with his surroundings and making it harder for his pursuers to find him.

"Frodo?" A familiar voice asked from another hiding place. Merry and Pippin were seen hiding in a safer place underneath an over-grown tree root.

"Hide here, quick! Come on!" Pippin pleaded but his cousin shook his head and looked out from behind the tree to see if there were any more Orcs coming their way.

"What's he doing?" The Took asked his friend and partner in crime as he saw Frodo give another shake of his chocolate mane.

"He's leaving," Merry pointed out, understanding what Frodo wanted from them. He gave a nod, signaling that he was about to do something drastic. Frodo's eyes widened as he watched his friend jump out from where he was hiding, pulling Pip along with him so they were in plain sight of the creatures that were after them.

"Run Frodo, go..." They ginger haired Hobbit said before shouting up to the Orcs.

"Hey! Hey you! Over here!"

"Over here! Over here! This way!" Pippin joined. "It's working!" He cheered as he ran, Merry at his heel.

"I know it's working no run!" The other cried after making sure the Ring bearer got away safely. They ran as quick as their legs would carry them but even with that speed they could not escape when they saw the bridge up ahead. Merry and Pip looked back and forth between the two groups of Orcs that came from either side of them, weapons raised and all yelling battle cries.

"Merry... If I don't live through this I want you to know, you were always a great friend..." Pippin murmured, squeezing his best friends arm.

"Don't say that, Pip. We'll make it out yet!" The other assured.

The Orcs came closer still, now close enough to strike. One swung his axe at Pippin who managed to duck out of the way. A horn was heard as Boromir neared, coming back from wherever he had been before the battle.

Swinging his mighty sword at the creature he sliced it in half then turned to face the rest, backing the Hobbits away from the other beasts so they would yet have a chance to escape.

He blew into the horn again, hoping for someone to hear and come to help them.

"The horn of Gondor!" Legolas said from where he stood, his Elfish ears picking up the faint sounds.

"Boromir!" Aza stated, looking up from where she stood.



"Run... RUN!" The Man said, trying to get the Hobbits to move. He was ambushed again, the fierceness and determination of the Orcs becoming somewhat unbeatable. He hurled a dagger into an Orcs neck, killing it instantly.

"Please, go!" He tried again. Finally the two made a move to leave but all movement stopped when a choked cry came from behind them. Turning quickly they saw the human slouched over, his hair matted with sweat and his face pale with weariness.

From their point of view all that could be seen was an arrow that had embedded itself into the green eyed man's chest.

"No!" Pippin cried when he thought all hope was gone. But the man rose, lifting his sword above his head again. His movements were less skilled then before for his force was leaving him. His strikes became less powerful and sloppier but he continued, knowing he had to get Merry and Pippin out of there.

"Please, leave now. I can handle them..." He guaranteed but his voice was weakening and didn't hold any truth behind his words.

"We- we can't..." Merry said, his eyes brimming with unshed tears on the humans account.

The sound of another arrow was heard and when Meriadoc looked up he saw that this time the weapon had landed just below the first. Boromir began to gasp for breath, choking on what air he had left in him.

"Please just leave me here. All my hope has been lost already; I do not want the same for you, little ones..." After looking them over once more he pushed himself off the ground, stabbing an Orc through the stomach. After one last cry he fell, a third arrow piercing his heart.

NO longer could the cousins just stand by and watch they felt they had to do something. Unsheathing their daggers they ran into battle but they were immediately grabbed and lifted off the ground.

Satisfied with their catch the Orcs turned, now running in the direction of Isengard where they had been that morning.

"May the little ones have my blessing." Boromir choked. He felt the presence of the Uruk-Hai who had given him these wounds. His body looming over the humans with a victorious aura. He heard the straining of the wire on the bow and could almost feel the arrow penetrate his head but the pain never came. The quiet abyss of darkness never surrounded his every being.

When he raised his head to inspect what had happened he saw Aragorn, the true Lord of Gondor, warding off the Orc. He was bleed at the head and his hair was damp with sweat but he kept fighting.

He was thrown back as the Uruk-Hai tossed him towards a tree. The black skinned being then hurled his shield at him, trapping him by the neck for an easy kill. He swayed sword but was only met with the sound of metal cutting through wood. Realizing his prey had gotten away he searched and soon found the man behind him. Aragorn plunged his sword into the brute's stomach, waiting for him to go limp but the thing only laughed and pulled the blade even further into his body.

"Are you mocking me?" Strider spat as he reclaimed his sword and swung it, slicing it cleanly through his attacker's neck. Its head fell to the ground with a thud.

Strider looked around, seeing his friend lying on the floor of the wood, blood staining the corner of his mouth and matting his strawberry tresses.

"No," He said, limping over to Boromir and kneeling beside him.

"They took the little ones," The Man gasped, the intake of air to tiring now as he hung on to life needlessly.

"Stay still," The Ranger insisted, trying to find some way of helping this dying comrade.

"Frodo, where is Frodo?" Came the hurried question, barely audible as Boromir's voice began to fade.

"I let Frodo go,"

"Then you did what I could not. I tried to take the Ring from him." The jade eyed man confessed with little more than a care.

"The Ring is beyond our reach now."

"Forgive me. I did not see it. I have failed you all."

"No, Boromir, you fought bravely. You have kept your honor." Aragorn encouraged, hoping there was something, anything, he could do to save the Man. He attempted to pull one of the arrows from Boromir's chest but his hand was swatted away.

"Leave it! It is over. The world of Men will fall and all will come to darkness. My city to ruin..."

"I do not know what strength is in my blood but I swear to you, I will not let the White City fall." Aragorn vowed. "Nor our people fail."

"Our people," a faint smile tugged at Boromir's lips as he reached beside him for his sword. "Our people."

"Yes," Aragorn affirmed, handing Boromir his sword as the other pulled it close to him.

A twig snapped and Legolas, Gimli and the two Ralgonnian royals appeared.

"NO!" Aza shrieked, running over to the dying man. She leaned over him, rubbing away the sweat that had collected on his brow. "You cannot leave us, not yet!" She sobbed, leaning down next to him, nuzzling his neck. Whatever pain the man had felt subsided as her tears hit his skin.

He looked back up to Aragorn, forcing himself to be able to turn his head the full way up for his strength had no fully left him. His body was becoming numb and all thought was leaving him except one which he spoke aloud:

"I would have followed you, my brother; my captain... My king..." With one last intake of breath his body became limp and his eyes stared blankly ahead.

"No..." Aza choked as she fell into the open arms of the Ranger. He held her close, comforting her as best he could.

"Be at peace, son of Gondor." He whispered, letting go of the child to place a kiss on the lifeless man's brow.





THIS IS IT! THE LAST CHAPTER! WELL, THE LAST REAL CHAPTER ANYWAY... THE OTHER IS JUST THE EPILOGUE AND INTRODUCTION TO THE NEXT PART! I'M SORRY IT TOOK SO LONG BUT I NEEDED TO TRY AND FIND THE RIGHT WORDS TO USE WHILE DESCRIBING A LOT OF DIFFERENT THINGS. I ENJOYED TAKING MY SWEET TIME ON THIS, MY LAST, CHAPTER! ANYWAY, I HOPE THINGS WEREN'T TO CONFUSING FOR YOU PEOPLE. THE NEXT CHAPTER WILL BE VERY SHORT. IT WOULD HAVE BEEN ADDED ONTO THIS ONE BUT THIS ONE ALONE WAS TOO LONG! I COULDN'T MAKE YOU GUYS SUFFER ANY MORE THAN YOU ALREADY HAVE...



[49]- Myni gwneuthur lye clywed? - Ralgonnian Elvish for 'What do you hear?' 'Myni' as you know means what and 'gwneuthur' is Welsh for 'do', 'lle' is Elvish for you and 'clywed' is Welsh for hear.

[50]- Haldir o Lorien. Henio aniron, boe ammen I dulu lin. Boe ammen veriad lin- 'Haldir of Lorien. We come here for help. We need your protection' in Elvish.

[51]- Taur'quessir- Elvish for 'Wood Elf'

[52]- Diola lle- 'Thank you' in Elvish

[53]- Lle creoso- 'Your welcome' in Elvish

[54]- Stone of Ages- The Stone of Ages is what keeps Ralgonnia alive. For some odd reason I found out that in 'Zelda, Oracle of Ages' they pretty much have the same thing and that sort of scared me but whatever. The Stone was a gift from the Valar because a maid of the Valar had fallen in love with the king there, Llyr. The Stone itself isn't very big and could fit in the palm of your hand but it is kept in a large, doom-shaped room in the centre of the palace since the wars between Mirkwood and Ralgonnia.

[55]- Ithil'quessir- 'Moon Elves' in Elvish

[56]- Amrun'quessir- 'Sun Elves' in Elvish

[57]- Heruamin- 'My Lord' in Elvish.

[58]- Namrie olynn farer kanrie Rihouhen, onran myrhir frin krenyr cymru thyn ri ranuill ehtire- "Waters of the rushing River be calm and still as we pass over thee.' In ancient Ralgonnian Elvish.

[59]- Nen Hithoel- The lake in which the Fellowship come upon when the rest on the western shores before the departure of Boromir.

[60]- Rauros Falls- The most spectacular falls in Middle Earth in the Third Age were the Rauros Falls on the Anduin River on the northern border of Gondor. The name 'Rauros means 'roaring foam' and accurately describes it as it fell in a shimmering golden haze from the long lake of Nen Hithoel on the heights of Emyn Muil to the marshlands below.

[61]- Elendil- 'Elf friend'/ informal way of saying it 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



Quick Summary for the next chapter:

Ch. 8: And the Road goes ever on and on (Epilogue + snippets of the Part II)

I also certain definitions (Nen Hithoel...etc.) in the book 'A GUIDE TO TOLKIEN' by David Day.