Chapter 11
"A Bird's Eye View"
Frodo awoke in a haze. It had been three days since Pippin's disastrous wedding and Frodo had been unconscious. Rosie was by his side.
"You're becoming one of my regular patients, Mr. Baggins," she said lovingly as she wiped the sweat from his brow with a damp cloth. Frodo groaned and moved his head slightly. He had been stricken with a debilitating fever. The doctor had come and went many times remarking on his "improbable chances." Of course Sam wouldn't even listen to such remarks and often deducted a little from the doctor's pay subconsciously. Sam came into the room holding a tray of tea. A tray of tea crashed to the floor when Sam caught sight of Frodo moving.
"SAM!" Rosie cried, but it was no use, he was right by her side and deaf to anything except hopeful news of Frodo's condition.
"It's nothing but good that he's awake, I know that much for sure," She said ringing the cloth out into a basin.
"Has he said anything?" Sam asked anxiously.
"Nothin' but groans, he's really sick, Sam."
"You think I don't see that?" he said sharply. She winced a little and wetted the cloth again. Sam took it from her.
"I'm sorry, dearest, I'm just so-,"
"Worried, I know, but he's awake now- lets hope for the best," She said standing up. She put a hand on his shoulder and walked out of the room. Sam put the cloth to Frodo's forehead and Frodo actually made eye contact. Still no words though...
"Don't worry," Sam said not sure if he was talking to Frodo or himself
"It's been worse." That it had, but the only worry Frodo could actually form into a thought at this point was the dread that the fever would not be sufficient, that he would make it.
Time came and went. Soon Frodo could sit up and sip soup, though he hadn't said a word since the night of the wedding. There was talk in Hobbiton that "Mr. Baggins was back, and up to his crazies again, tried to drown himself and poor miss Lilly just like his poor folks," but he didn't hear any of it. He mostly saw Elanor who would bring him his soup and sit by and read to him. She had just started to be able to put sentences together and would get through about a word a minute. Frodo would just sit, propped up with a pillow, soup in his lap and stare out the window while she read. Every day it was a different book- of which they got through about a paragraph.
"Afternoon Frodo," Sam said as he walked in trying out his best cheery voice- the same one he used on numerous dark occasions on the way to the mountain of fire. Frodo didn't answer.
"The....buh....buh...book....of...nuh...nuh... knots," Elanor dribbled out beside the bed in a chair. She had picked a random book off of Bilbo's dusty old shelves, though it probably had been given to him by the Gaffer. Sam stuck to his business.
"There's someone to see you, Mr. Frodo," Sam said hopefully, but Frodo didn't stir. Sam swallowed and then spoke to someone waiting in the hall.
"There...are...muh-...many ki-...kinds of knots."
"Come in, Miss Lilly." Lilly appeared in the doorway and walked cautiously into the room. She was dressed in a fine yellow silk dress and held a white muff. Frodo didn't acknowledge her presence.
"Frodo?" She said softly. There was no response.
"There's the fish- fisherman's knot." Lilly turned back to Sam.
"He's been this way since...," Sam trailed off. Lilly came closer and looked at Frodo very concerned.
"Frodo if you feel like it's your fault, don't worry- I'm fine...."
"And the wheel barrel knot..."
"I'm just worried about you," She whispered.
"And the Rabbit knot..." Still nothing happened and she looked back to Sam again who turned away.
"Rosie says he's gett'n better, but maybe she's just say'n that..." Sam said. Lilly nodded.
"And the Sailor's knot-"
"NO!" Frodo suddenly cried out. Elanor froze and Sam and Lilly rushed to him. He looked at them as if he hadn't seen them in a long time.
"Frodo?" Sam and Lilly cried simultaneously. He met their eyes
"I'm...hungry." he said. Lilly and Sam broke out into laughter.
"There's soup right there in your lap," Lilly said smiling. She reached to help him but Frodo seemed to pull back, not physically as he didn't move, but they saw him start to retreat again into his fever. She backed up.
"It's right there," she said pointing to the bowl. He looked at it like it was alien to him and then picked the spoon. He dipped the spoon into the broth and brought it up to his lips slowly. His hand shook so much that there was hardly anything left by the time it made it to his mouth. But the warm liquid felt good in his throat.
"Elanor, go Mr. Frodo some tea," Sam said and she rushed off.
"Perhaps I ought to be going," Lilly said, Sam nodded and started to the door.
"Don't mind me," She said.
"I can see my own way out," she met Frodo's eyes with this last statement and left the room. **********************************************************
Frodo's strength finally did begin to return. Eventually he would walk out into the garden leaning on Sam for support to breathe the fresh air and sunshine.
"This is much better than that stuffy room ay?" Sam would say. Frodo would only nod his head and perhaps muster a
"Yes,"as he still didn't say much. But gradually even that began to improve and Frodo would move slowly around the house with a cane and would talk about everything except the events of that night. He wouldn't even submit to questioning.
One night after the children had gone to bed and Frodo had retired Sam and Rosie stayed by the fireplace. The embers crackled and the pungent aroma of Sam's pipe filled the room.
"Sam," Rosie began
"Do you think this all is the fault of that criminal?" Sam looked up at her
" I don't know what's wrong, he wont say anythi-,"
"Since you caught him I've felt uneasy, when will they come for him? it's been weeks?" Sam shifted in his chair uncomfortably.
"I sent out the messengers almost two fortnights ago,"
"And still they haven't returned?" She asked.
"No."
"Not even a message?"
"No, I asked the men of Faramir to take back word for the king as well, but..." Rosie looked at him anxiously.
"There's something wrong," She said and Sam winced to hear his deepest fears vocalized.
"Have you heard any news of the East in town?" She looked at him squarely- Sam knew this was a double question as when she said town she meant "Have you been to the green dragon lately?"
"Yes," He admitted. Her eyes narrowed.
"Folk are say'n there've been strange storms out there, and some discord in the white city." She trembled at the thought of what hobbit's would tone down into "discord" and put a hand to her belly.
"Don't worry, dearest," Sam said guessing her thoughts.
"No war's brew'n. It's probably just some rabble left over from...," Just then they heard a terrible scream from probably a quarter mile away. Sam stood up like a statue of ice.
"I know that sound." Rosie stood up and they both rushed to the children's room. There they found little Frodo and a terrible sight- Elanor's empty bed. Rosie let out a confused cry. Sam ran down the hall to the Master bedroom. He swung open the door, but his hopes were dashed. Frodo's bed was empty, the window was open and a cold wind blew across his face.
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Frodo didn't know what he was doing- just that he was doing it. He had intended on getting into bed that night when he said goodnight to Sam and Rosie, he had even undressed and turned down the bed, but something had caused him to stop when he walked by his nightstand. The book Elanor had been reading to him on the day Lilly had come to see him was still there. It was curiously open to the page she had left off on- even though several weeks had passed. He looked the book.
"The sailor's knot.." He read out loud. Just then he understood what thought it had been that had brought him out of his lifeless state, it wasn't hope or having his friends around him,
"I'll go back," he said out loud. The words burned into his mind and it was if he could see them written in the air in front of him. Of course! He had failed, and quickly. The ring was lost to the river, he had no choice but to swallow his pride and drag himself before the Valar and ask for forgiveness and mercy. He began to dress himself. He even buckled Sting around his waist without a second thought. His hands seemed to do all the thinking for him. In no time he was climbing out the window without looking back.
The world seemed to close in around him as he trudged bewildered through the woods till he was standing in front of the tiny barn where Sam kept the ponies. it was almost as if someone else worked through his hands as they bridled Frodo's familiar pony Strider. His attention was drawn to Imbalech's two beautiful horses that Sam had been stabling for her. One was the color of snow that was seconds away from melting in the spring sun, and the other a deep charcoal black. With only a second of hesitation Frodo left his pony and began stroking the nose of the black horse. He accepted well enough and a determined look grew in Frodo's eyes.
Frodo had been on a horse before, when Glorfindel sent him on his horse to rescue him from the Nazgul at the ford. Now Frodo sped away at lightning pace into the night, not knowing where he was going or why he was going there. He didn't care. The only thought that seemed to be his mind was of putting distance between him and this place - although he wasn't even sure what he was running from. He just knew he had to get out. The night enveloped him and seemed to consume him until it finally released him again and he brought his horse to stop in front of the brick prison building. Frodo jumped down and rushed to the door. The watchmen were no where to be seen
"Locked..." what was he to do now- what was he doing here in the first place?
"I've got to get in!" just then he caught sight of a lovely row of fist-sized rocks lining the flowerbed by the door. Frodo bent down and picked the moss covered rock up and held and without hesitation smashed the window and reached his inside and got hold of the keys that were hung beside the door on the interior side. He unlocked the door and walked briskly in, almost pleased with his accomplishment. He wasn't allowing his mind to question his instincts - even when thoughts start to yell at him for consideration like "what will Sam think? What about the court- and Aragorn?" he shut them all down in their tracks with a simple reply "I don't care." He turned the corner with resolute steps and came in on a strange scene. The watchman was asleep with a mug in his hand, on the floor in front of Jack's cell. Jack was stretching a hand through the bars and was reaching in vain for something the watchman held in hand. He stopped and looked up immediately as Frodo entered the room.
"What took you so bloody long? This place is beginning to feel like prison!" Jack said standing up. Frodo walked up to the guard and pushed his hand aside and plucked up a set of iron keys.
"Is this what you wanted?" he asked with a smirk.
"Well actually, he hadn't quite finished his drink, but that will do," Jack responded. Frodo shook his head out of his bewilderment and leaned his back on to the wall beside Jack's cell. He began conspicuously playing with the keys.
"Well?" Jack said anxiously.
"Well what?" Frodo responded in a sarcastically innocent tone.
"Let me out!" Jack exclaimed.
"You seem to manage that one your quite well," he said twirling the keys around his finger.
"Not since ole apple tart fixed the lock," me muttered.
"Oh," Frodo said pretending to be pretending to be interested. Jack turned to the door with a very sly look in his eye.
"Perhaps, I could help you?" he said. Frodo looked at him suspiciously.
"How?"
"I've got something you want.... Something you- lost," He said swaying. Frodo's eyes widened and he grabbed the bars.
"MALL'ELEN?! Give it to me!" He said before he could catch himself.
"Oh, there, there, now. It wasn't necessary to tip your hand quite yet, but since you already did- let's get down to business," he said looking at Frodo like he was a meal.
"There," Frodo said unlocking the door and swinging it open. Jack smiled and stepped out.
"We're not learning,' he said closing the door behind him with a clank "thank you, and goodnight," he said walking towards the hallway. Frodo ran in front of him.
"I did what you wanted!" Frodo cried. Jack gave him a pitiful look.
"Actually, we never discussed it, so if you please-," he said insinuating the Frodo should move aside.
"What do you want!" Frodo said anxiously. Jack became very concentrated and he peered down at Frodo with his dark lined eyes.
"You need to work on your timing, mate, I don't want anything now," he then proceeded to waltz passed Frodo who scurried after him, tears forming in his eyes.
"Where are you going?" Frodo called after him. Jack twirled around
"To my ship, Master Baggins," and he spun back around and kept walking toward the door.
"His ship," Frodo thought to himself. His brain was racing; images of the sea and of Valinor were coming up to the foreground of his mind. The ring seemed to fall through the cracks of his thoughts, which were sealed up with one driving mission "to go back."
Suddenly they heard the front door of the prison open with a jerk and voices could be heard. Jack and Frodo froze. The voices were coming towards them. Jack scanned the room for ideas.
"I'll cover for you," Frodo said and Jack tipped his head. "Go out the window- I'll tell them.something." Jack nodded with approval and started for the window. He had one leg out when Frodo stopped him.
"But first our deal," Frodo said resolutely. The voices could be heard down the hall now. Jack brought his leg back.
"Name your price."
"I'll get you out of this if you promise to take me with you," Frodo said meeting his eyes. A ferocity shone in Frodo that Jack had been waiting for.
" It was only a matter o' time, mate," Jack smiled.
"First mate," Frodo said narrowing his eyes and then softening "If you please."
"Done. " They shook hands and the door began to open. Jack slipped out of sight and Frodo stood there in fearful anticipation of who it could be. But suddenly there was a large commotion in the hallway and then everything went dead silent. He waited a few moments but still no sound of movement could be detected. Frodo motioned to Jack who reentered through the window.
"That was close," he said as he stepped down to Frodo. Suddenly a piercing scream cut the night air like a blade. Frodo froze and felt his stomach drop. His shoulder grew cold and his eyes became clouded. Jack raced to the window again and then looked back. Frodo stood motionless grasping at his shoulder.
"Come on," He said grabbing his shoulder and pulling him behind him. Frodo became limp and Jack spun around. He grasped Frodo by the neck.
"They'll be here any minute- "
"I'm not...ready," Frodo stammered.
"Maybe not," he said looking at Frodo "but they don't need to know it!" he reached down and unsheathed sting and held the blue blade aloft.
"Take this," he said thrusting the handle toward Frodo. He didn't move.
"TAKE IT!" Frodo's fingers wrapped around the handle slowly. Jack drew his own sword and he went toward the window again and still Frodo faltered. He looked back and a thought seemed to dance attractively through his mind and he walked up to Frodo and said
"I can help ya, mate- but only if we get one thing straight, I'm the Captain- and an order is an order- now MOVE you pathetic dog!" Frodo slowly turned his head and looked at Jack and his eyes grew less distant and a smile came over his face.
"Aye," he said and they both bolted through he door "Captain..."
They darted across the lawn to Imbalech's horse. Jack swung his leg up and tried to pull himself onto the beast but couldn't get off the ground. He grumbled to himself. Frodo walked up from the other side and climbed nimbly up to the saddle.
"Do you need a hand, Captain?" he said coyly. Jack sneered and took Frodo's tiny hand. They were quite a sight, a tiny hobbit riding on a large black horse with a corsair clinging to him for dear life. The sped off in hopes that whatever it was that had let loose such a terrible scream was far behind them. They rode on for hours. Imbalech's horse could make uncanny time. It was daylight when the white towers came into view. Frodo brought the horse to a stop and looked up at the majesty of the work of Gilgalad. He had built the towers for Elendil hundreds of years ago. War came and claimed both mighty warriors but the elves would come to the tallest tower and climb the long stair that they might gaze out into the endless blue oblivion. Some of the sharpest eyed could just barley make out the form of Elbereth on Mt. Telepiron gazing at them. Now it stood dark and empty.
Frodo hoped down from the horse, his gaze fixed on the tower. Jack slid slowly to the ground and stretched his legs with a groan.
"I think I have a saddle sore..." Frodo looked back at him with a wrinkled brow and then returned his attention to the looming tower. Jack hobbled up to him and looked up at what had him so interested.
"If we hope to make to my ship without a swarm of your munchkin friends on our heels- we'd best get a move on," he said looking suspiciously at Frodo.
"I know," Frodo replied without taking his eyes off the tower. "But I have to go up there," his eyes were distant. Jack grimaced and staggered toward the tower.
"Where are you going?" Frodo called out when he realized Jack was leaving.
"Up there!" he yelled back pointing his finger violently towards the top of the tower. Frodo tied the horse to a nearby tree and ran toward the tower.
When he got there Jack was no where to be seen. Frodo wondered for a second and then resolved to climb the tower no matter what happened. The going was slow; the stairs seemed to wrap around the tower endlessly. After what must've been half an hour Frodo began to see a light. He picked up the pace and as he turned the bend he came out into a small room with an enormously tall ceiling. There was an empty metal stand in the center of the room and behind it was an open balcony looking out toward the sea. He walked hesitantly toward the salty breeze. So many emotions awoke within him. He missed the West and all of its peace and beauty. But he loved Middle-Earth and all of its different inhabitants. Each seemed to fill a different position in the grand scheme of things. Each seemed important and that in a way made them beautiful too. It was as if amidst all the dirt and ugliness, the pure truth seemed to shine in direct contest with the beauty of Valinor. The evil had its place and purpose in Middle earth- was it not important too? He walked out on to the balcony. Immediately the breeze washed him with the smell of the sea and his gaze was lost in the endless blue horizon. Then a new feeling began to creep over him and gnaw at his thoughts. He felt a dark hand was reaching out of the East and grasping at him, trying to pull him towards.just then Jack put his hand on Frodo's shoulder. He spun around in alarm. Jack smiled a gold-toothy smile and walked to the railing of the balcony. He peered over the edge like a child.
"I bet if you dropped something- like a coin, and it hit them it would kill 'em!" he mused with undue fascination. Frodo was annoyed yet he continued.
"Well, it probably wouldn't kill 'em. Just knock 'em out." He walked back to Frodo and looked at him and then out to the horizon.
"Isn't she lovely?" Jack mused. Frodo shook off the start he had given him.
"Who?" Jack looked down at him confused.
"Her," he said pointing out the window towards the horizon. Frodo measured Jack in his eyes. Was he referring to the sea or could he see something else- or further more was he trying to make Frodo think he could see something else? Frodo turned back to the view and squinted as the sun caught the water and set blinding rays in his direction. Frodo's vision began to melt into a strange blurry light as he stared at the sea. His eyes seemed to take him far into the distance and then the image began to clarify. It was the same image he had beheld when he had fallen into the river- Elbereth. She stood on top of a great hill surrounded by an expanse. Her hand was held aloft and she was singing.
With mortal eyes I long to look at you,
Your soul assail on the briny blue.
Often have I peeked at you,
Hoping you would see me too.
Then she stopped and her eyes met with Frodo's and it seemed that in their meeting vast amounts of knowledge was transferred. Images passed before his eyes at a lightning speed. He saw the faces of Sam and of Imbalech and three rings, he saw a shadowy figure in the background and then a fleet of ships on the sea.
The blaring of a trumpet startled Frodo and the vision vanished like a wisp of smoking being blown away with the wind. Frodo looked around the room. Jack was no where to be seen. Then the trumpet blared again and he became aware of many voices shouting and growling from below the balcony. Frodo walked out into the open air only to barely miss being impaled by a shooting arrow. He jumped to the side and flattened his body against the wall of the tower. He swallowed hard as he took in the scene below. A massive army had surrounded the tower. He must've not noticed because of his vision. "That's what Jack had been looking at!" he cried. They were from Harad. Frodo recognized the yellow and black colors of the Desert Lord and could make out their dark eyes even from the balcony. There was no where for him to go.
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Sam groaned and eased his aching body up from the floor of the prison. He looked around and marveled at the state of the place. Everything was overturned.the windows were broken and glass was splintered on the floor. He slowly rubbed his head and tried to remember what had happened before he had blacked out.
"That's right.Frodo, he's gone!" He suddenly jerked his body up from the floor and tried to stand. The movement was too much for his aching head and he collapsed to the floor.
"Got to find him." he groaned and then he caught sight of another body lying on the floor under a piece of furniture. He squinted and tried to get his foggy vision to clear. Then he recognized the golden hair and the green tunic.
"Imbalech!" Sam cried as he turned her over. She sputtered and opened her eyes. She was bleeding from her side.
"Oh..." Sam felt his heart sink when he saw her wound. Like a gust of wind the preceding events swooped into his memory. He saw the wedding, Frodo lying his bed- not moving. The image shifted to his bed empty and Sam rushing out of the house. Imbalech had found him running aimlessly into the night.
"Nazgul." she had said. But even now her words seemed foreign to him. How could there be Nazgul- they had departed middle earth with their master. Imbalech groaned and tried to sit up.
"Don't move," Sam said helping her to gently lie back down.
"They took her," she said, her voice wavering. Sam looked at her blankly. Then he remembered. Elanor's bed had been empty too. He went out of his mind. He stood up and began smashing what was left of the of the prison building. He swung wildly, smashing pieces of furniture and glassware. He picked a chair and threw it at door leading to the cell. But the door caught his eye. He remembered why they had come here.
"He's behind this.... mark my words," Sam clenched his fist and regained his composure. The only thought he now possessed was to find Jack Sparrow. Just then he remembered Imbalech and went to her.
"I have to get you out of here," He said. She looked at him hard.
"You have to find them- there's two Nazgul out there- who knows what else..."
"you're right, but-"
"Help me stand." She said resolutely. Sam touched her arm cautiously as the blood was coming from right below her rib. She pushed off with all her might and Sam managed to steady her as she reeled in pain.
"I can make it," She said to him, and began to hobble toward what was left of the door.
"Make it where?" he asked giving her something to lean on.
"To my horse, He can get us the rest of the way." they reached her horse and Sam helped her by keeping her from falling backwards as she performed the grueling task of pulling herself up into the saddle. She gave a hand down to Sam.
"You need to take the reins," She said "I don't know how much longer I'll be conscious." Sam began to shake holding the reins in his tiny hands.
"I don't understand. Where are we going?" He said tears forming in his eyes.
"After Jack and Frodo," she said and her chin dropped down to her chest.
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The Army of Southrons swarmed over the ground below the tower. It was a solid seething mass of yellow and black, with glints of silver sticking up like spikes. They had weapons of every kind: spears, swords, both one handed and two handed. There were axes scattered throughout the companies (though they really had no order to them) and they had archers everywhere you looked. They had come prepared for anything. Some had flaming arrows, others grappling hooks with foreboding looking ropes attached to them. Frodo felt paralyzed, as he stood pressed to the tower wall. He should get off the balcony and take cover but he couldn't move. He was alone.... Just then he heard some noise down below. A few trumpets sounded and then he could make out voices. He peered over from the wall and could see that a procession was making its way through the crowd. There were several fearsome soldiers carrying a throne covered with a veil for the sun. They halted at the tower's base just below the balcony and a large dark man climbed down from the throne. He shown with gold and his long dark hair came down in tight braids over his round belly. He was the Desert Lord- their king. He tipped his head and sneered at the dark mouth of the balcony. He took a few steps forward and then spoke.
"He says he's up there, but I don't see- wait- YOU THERE! Declare yourself!" Frodo gulped and moved slowly away from the wall and to the edge of the balcony. He put his hands lightly on the railing.
"I'm just - a hobbit," he said meekly without knowing what to say.
"That much I can see!" the man retorted. "Your NAME?" He waited. Frodo seemed to run his fingers through the pages of the Red Book hopelessly searching for something of his quest to have an ounce of wisdom for this situation. He found his answer in "At the Sign of the Prancing Pony".
"I'm Mr. Underhill," he said. His voice fell hollowly on the crowd. They all seemed to tense at his answer. Jeers and snarls seemed to move through the army. The man scowled and seemed to turn away.
"You brought us the wrong one," he yelled toward the covered throne. Out from under the scarlet shade popped Jack's head. He looked up and squinted. He proceeded to fall off of the throne platform not realizing the guards had raised it again. He jumped up and raced to the King's side.
"Oh no, milord, that's definitely the one, I'm sure of it."
"This is what I get for hiring a good for nothing like Jack Sparrow to do a real corsair's job, " the man turned to the army and shouted "Dogs- lets mo-," Jack grabbed his hand and he stopped short. Jack leaned in
"This is the one, he had the ring..."
"That's another item on your "list of failures" " the King replied.
"You were supposed to bring us the hobbit and the ring- I've got no ring and a worthless hobbit! How do expect to get your ship back at this rate?" Something shifted in Jack's mind and he conceded quickly.
"You're right, your Excellency, we should get out of here before we attract the attention of taller folk," Jack glanced toward the balcony. Frodo hadn't moved but had watched the whole scene unfold. He couldn't believe Jack had betrayed him.
"What blinded me?" he thought "I must've lost my mind to be trusting someone like him."
The King once again raised his hand and ordered the army to move out. He then turned to one of his guards
"Shoot the halfling," he said. Jack's eyes widened.
"But sire-"
"It wont do us any good to have him tellin' all his aunts, uncles and cousin's what we're look'n for will it?" he sneered. "Guards, bring me his body." Jack winced and looked up anxiously at the tower. Two tall Southrons were barreling up the stairs. By this time Frodo was boiling in his misplaced trust.
"LET them shoot me Captain Sparrow- you heartless, brainless scoundrel. Every one was right! Not only can you not be trusted but you can't be trusted to even betray me correctly!" Frodo sealed his curse with a directed spit. It hit right on Jack's left boot. He looked up at Frodo and the magical light that is his keen resourcefulness went off in an instant array of brilliance.
"That was uncalled for Mr. Underhill- don't you know that even the smallest thing," his eyes narrowed and the guard aligned an arrow on his bow.
"When dropped from high place can change the world." Jack met Frodo's eyes, which widened with wondrous understanding. Frodo glanced to his right and sure enough there on the railing was Mall'elen. The ring sparkled as he picked it up. The guard was pulling back his bowstring. Frodo looked at the glittery jewel for a second, then at Jack's smile and let her drop. The ring hit the guard just as he was about to release and he toppled to the ground. The arrow lay unspent. Amidst the amazement Jack noted where the ring had fallen and took a step towards it. The guards could now be heard on the stairs and there was no where for Frodo to go. Jack swept the ring up into his hand and then ripped a bow equipped with an iron hook and rope out of the hands of the nearest guard.
"Thank you." he said and shot the grappling hook towards the balcony. Frodo jumped back as it clanked on to the railing. "There's no where to go- except down," he thought as the sounds of the guards could be heard echoing in the encircling staircase. Frodo took a deep breath and swung his leg over the rope and shut his eyes. The wind alone told him of his descent. Frodo hit the ground only to be caught in a full on brawl. Jack's sword played of the other weapons like a fiddle and the fat man had retreated into his covered throne. He was hitting the back of the heads of the guards to move him away from there.
Frodo unsheathed sting and hesitated as a man fell dead beside him. The men seemed to not notice him but where vehemently intent on running Jack threw in multiple places. Frodo darted in-between the combatant's legs and blocked wild swings meant for Jack's turned back. Jack fought away with a strange calmness. Frodo felt he must not be aware of the soldiers behind and to all sides of him. He anxiously caught each and every stroke that tried to fell the daft pirate. But then a monstrous man with black teeth and a grizzly axe came up from behind. Frodo looked in desperation as he raised his axe and swung it toward an unsuspecting Jack. Frodo shut his eyes. He heard a clank instead of the severing of flesh and opened his eyes to see Jack now fighting on top of the fallen axemen. Frodo blinked and began to smile. He continued to fight off the little stabs and kicks coming Jacks way and they eventually found themselves back to back. The entire Harad army enclosing upon them.
"What do ya think?" Jack asked excitedly.
"We're doomed."
"No- of pirates?!" He persisted. Frodo stopped fighting and turned to look at him. Just then the air was severed by an undead scream. Frodo froze and then army turned toward the black figures.
"I was so close," Frodo whimpered looking toward the sea. The army
seemed to bow and then the King came forward from his hiding spot.
"We- we have found him," He said bowing to the wraiths. They didn't move or speak. The silence started to rip Frodo limb from limb. He couldn't take it anymore. He burst through the ranks of the soldiers and stood before the Nazgul.
"Here I am if you want me!" Jack winced, sighed and put his hand to his head out of frustration.
"We have come to kill you," the Nazgul hissed. Frodo began to feel his head sway. Their voices were like a thick drink poured down his throat. It was making him dizzy. They edged closer to him. Just then they heard a voice.
"Excuse me," Jack said as he pushed passed the King and walked up to Frodo. He looked at Frodo who seemed to have retreated into a deep place within himself. Jack then looked to the Nazgul swaying a little bit. He seemed to have trouble focusing.
"Hmmm," he said sounding mildly interested in the undead kings before him. Suddenly he got a surprised look in his eye and he walked toward the Nazgul.
"Don't I know you?" he said if talking to someone he'd met on the street. The Nazgul seemed to almost be taken back by such a familiar comment.
"GET BACK!" it hissed.
"No, I'm sure I know you from some where- have you ever been to the lost isles, cause I'm sure I saw you there-" The Nazgul interrupted Jack with a piecing scream of anger.
"Begging your pardon, we didn't know you wanted to be alone," he said taking Frodo by the shoulders and begging to walk off. The Nazgul screamed again. They froze and turned around. But Jack slipped something cold into Frodo's weak hand.
"Give us the halfling- we've come to end his life!" they screeched.
"MY life's already gone- if you've come to end it- you're too late!" Frodo erupted. He then calmly held up Mall'elen and a great light came from it like a halo of blue. The light spread out over the entire army and they froze in awe. Jack smiled smugly. The Nazgul screamed in pain and fled. Frodo turned and faced the army.
"I am Frodo Baggins, bearer of Mall'elen. I've come for you...will you not follow me?" The crowd stood silent. Then the king came bumbling forward and he fell to his knees.
"We don't want to be slaves," he said.
"I will make you your own masters," Frodo said in a voice not his own. He seemed just as amazed as everyone else. The king looked up with tears in his eyes. He removed his crown of ivory and held it out to Frodo.
"Will you not show us the way- be our king?" Just then Sam rode up on Imbalech's horse. The elf was passed out and Sam was desperate. Frodo left the crowd and rushed to his friends. Jack came with him and helped Sam ease Imbalech off the horse. She awakened for a minute and said,
"I knew I'd find you Jack sparrow." and passed out again.
"A Bird's Eye View"
Frodo awoke in a haze. It had been three days since Pippin's disastrous wedding and Frodo had been unconscious. Rosie was by his side.
"You're becoming one of my regular patients, Mr. Baggins," she said lovingly as she wiped the sweat from his brow with a damp cloth. Frodo groaned and moved his head slightly. He had been stricken with a debilitating fever. The doctor had come and went many times remarking on his "improbable chances." Of course Sam wouldn't even listen to such remarks and often deducted a little from the doctor's pay subconsciously. Sam came into the room holding a tray of tea. A tray of tea crashed to the floor when Sam caught sight of Frodo moving.
"SAM!" Rosie cried, but it was no use, he was right by her side and deaf to anything except hopeful news of Frodo's condition.
"It's nothing but good that he's awake, I know that much for sure," She said ringing the cloth out into a basin.
"Has he said anything?" Sam asked anxiously.
"Nothin' but groans, he's really sick, Sam."
"You think I don't see that?" he said sharply. She winced a little and wetted the cloth again. Sam took it from her.
"I'm sorry, dearest, I'm just so-,"
"Worried, I know, but he's awake now- lets hope for the best," She said standing up. She put a hand on his shoulder and walked out of the room. Sam put the cloth to Frodo's forehead and Frodo actually made eye contact. Still no words though...
"Don't worry," Sam said not sure if he was talking to Frodo or himself
"It's been worse." That it had, but the only worry Frodo could actually form into a thought at this point was the dread that the fever would not be sufficient, that he would make it.
Time came and went. Soon Frodo could sit up and sip soup, though he hadn't said a word since the night of the wedding. There was talk in Hobbiton that "Mr. Baggins was back, and up to his crazies again, tried to drown himself and poor miss Lilly just like his poor folks," but he didn't hear any of it. He mostly saw Elanor who would bring him his soup and sit by and read to him. She had just started to be able to put sentences together and would get through about a word a minute. Frodo would just sit, propped up with a pillow, soup in his lap and stare out the window while she read. Every day it was a different book- of which they got through about a paragraph.
"Afternoon Frodo," Sam said as he walked in trying out his best cheery voice- the same one he used on numerous dark occasions on the way to the mountain of fire. Frodo didn't answer.
"The....buh....buh...book....of...nuh...nuh... knots," Elanor dribbled out beside the bed in a chair. She had picked a random book off of Bilbo's dusty old shelves, though it probably had been given to him by the Gaffer. Sam stuck to his business.
"There's someone to see you, Mr. Frodo," Sam said hopefully, but Frodo didn't stir. Sam swallowed and then spoke to someone waiting in the hall.
"There...are...muh-...many ki-...kinds of knots."
"Come in, Miss Lilly." Lilly appeared in the doorway and walked cautiously into the room. She was dressed in a fine yellow silk dress and held a white muff. Frodo didn't acknowledge her presence.
"Frodo?" She said softly. There was no response.
"There's the fish- fisherman's knot." Lilly turned back to Sam.
"He's been this way since...," Sam trailed off. Lilly came closer and looked at Frodo very concerned.
"Frodo if you feel like it's your fault, don't worry- I'm fine...."
"And the wheel barrel knot..."
"I'm just worried about you," She whispered.
"And the Rabbit knot..." Still nothing happened and she looked back to Sam again who turned away.
"Rosie says he's gett'n better, but maybe she's just say'n that..." Sam said. Lilly nodded.
"And the Sailor's knot-"
"NO!" Frodo suddenly cried out. Elanor froze and Sam and Lilly rushed to him. He looked at them as if he hadn't seen them in a long time.
"Frodo?" Sam and Lilly cried simultaneously. He met their eyes
"I'm...hungry." he said. Lilly and Sam broke out into laughter.
"There's soup right there in your lap," Lilly said smiling. She reached to help him but Frodo seemed to pull back, not physically as he didn't move, but they saw him start to retreat again into his fever. She backed up.
"It's right there," she said pointing to the bowl. He looked at it like it was alien to him and then picked the spoon. He dipped the spoon into the broth and brought it up to his lips slowly. His hand shook so much that there was hardly anything left by the time it made it to his mouth. But the warm liquid felt good in his throat.
"Elanor, go Mr. Frodo some tea," Sam said and she rushed off.
"Perhaps I ought to be going," Lilly said, Sam nodded and started to the door.
"Don't mind me," She said.
"I can see my own way out," she met Frodo's eyes with this last statement and left the room. **********************************************************
Frodo's strength finally did begin to return. Eventually he would walk out into the garden leaning on Sam for support to breathe the fresh air and sunshine.
"This is much better than that stuffy room ay?" Sam would say. Frodo would only nod his head and perhaps muster a
"Yes,"as he still didn't say much. But gradually even that began to improve and Frodo would move slowly around the house with a cane and would talk about everything except the events of that night. He wouldn't even submit to questioning.
One night after the children had gone to bed and Frodo had retired Sam and Rosie stayed by the fireplace. The embers crackled and the pungent aroma of Sam's pipe filled the room.
"Sam," Rosie began
"Do you think this all is the fault of that criminal?" Sam looked up at her
" I don't know what's wrong, he wont say anythi-,"
"Since you caught him I've felt uneasy, when will they come for him? it's been weeks?" Sam shifted in his chair uncomfortably.
"I sent out the messengers almost two fortnights ago,"
"And still they haven't returned?" She asked.
"No."
"Not even a message?"
"No, I asked the men of Faramir to take back word for the king as well, but..." Rosie looked at him anxiously.
"There's something wrong," She said and Sam winced to hear his deepest fears vocalized.
"Have you heard any news of the East in town?" She looked at him squarely- Sam knew this was a double question as when she said town she meant "Have you been to the green dragon lately?"
"Yes," He admitted. Her eyes narrowed.
"Folk are say'n there've been strange storms out there, and some discord in the white city." She trembled at the thought of what hobbit's would tone down into "discord" and put a hand to her belly.
"Don't worry, dearest," Sam said guessing her thoughts.
"No war's brew'n. It's probably just some rabble left over from...," Just then they heard a terrible scream from probably a quarter mile away. Sam stood up like a statue of ice.
"I know that sound." Rosie stood up and they both rushed to the children's room. There they found little Frodo and a terrible sight- Elanor's empty bed. Rosie let out a confused cry. Sam ran down the hall to the Master bedroom. He swung open the door, but his hopes were dashed. Frodo's bed was empty, the window was open and a cold wind blew across his face.
*************************************************************
Frodo didn't know what he was doing- just that he was doing it. He had intended on getting into bed that night when he said goodnight to Sam and Rosie, he had even undressed and turned down the bed, but something had caused him to stop when he walked by his nightstand. The book Elanor had been reading to him on the day Lilly had come to see him was still there. It was curiously open to the page she had left off on- even though several weeks had passed. He looked the book.
"The sailor's knot.." He read out loud. Just then he understood what thought it had been that had brought him out of his lifeless state, it wasn't hope or having his friends around him,
"I'll go back," he said out loud. The words burned into his mind and it was if he could see them written in the air in front of him. Of course! He had failed, and quickly. The ring was lost to the river, he had no choice but to swallow his pride and drag himself before the Valar and ask for forgiveness and mercy. He began to dress himself. He even buckled Sting around his waist without a second thought. His hands seemed to do all the thinking for him. In no time he was climbing out the window without looking back.
The world seemed to close in around him as he trudged bewildered through the woods till he was standing in front of the tiny barn where Sam kept the ponies. it was almost as if someone else worked through his hands as they bridled Frodo's familiar pony Strider. His attention was drawn to Imbalech's two beautiful horses that Sam had been stabling for her. One was the color of snow that was seconds away from melting in the spring sun, and the other a deep charcoal black. With only a second of hesitation Frodo left his pony and began stroking the nose of the black horse. He accepted well enough and a determined look grew in Frodo's eyes.
Frodo had been on a horse before, when Glorfindel sent him on his horse to rescue him from the Nazgul at the ford. Now Frodo sped away at lightning pace into the night, not knowing where he was going or why he was going there. He didn't care. The only thought that seemed to be his mind was of putting distance between him and this place - although he wasn't even sure what he was running from. He just knew he had to get out. The night enveloped him and seemed to consume him until it finally released him again and he brought his horse to stop in front of the brick prison building. Frodo jumped down and rushed to the door. The watchmen were no where to be seen
"Locked..." what was he to do now- what was he doing here in the first place?
"I've got to get in!" just then he caught sight of a lovely row of fist-sized rocks lining the flowerbed by the door. Frodo bent down and picked the moss covered rock up and held and without hesitation smashed the window and reached his inside and got hold of the keys that were hung beside the door on the interior side. He unlocked the door and walked briskly in, almost pleased with his accomplishment. He wasn't allowing his mind to question his instincts - even when thoughts start to yell at him for consideration like "what will Sam think? What about the court- and Aragorn?" he shut them all down in their tracks with a simple reply "I don't care." He turned the corner with resolute steps and came in on a strange scene. The watchman was asleep with a mug in his hand, on the floor in front of Jack's cell. Jack was stretching a hand through the bars and was reaching in vain for something the watchman held in hand. He stopped and looked up immediately as Frodo entered the room.
"What took you so bloody long? This place is beginning to feel like prison!" Jack said standing up. Frodo walked up to the guard and pushed his hand aside and plucked up a set of iron keys.
"Is this what you wanted?" he asked with a smirk.
"Well actually, he hadn't quite finished his drink, but that will do," Jack responded. Frodo shook his head out of his bewilderment and leaned his back on to the wall beside Jack's cell. He began conspicuously playing with the keys.
"Well?" Jack said anxiously.
"Well what?" Frodo responded in a sarcastically innocent tone.
"Let me out!" Jack exclaimed.
"You seem to manage that one your quite well," he said twirling the keys around his finger.
"Not since ole apple tart fixed the lock," me muttered.
"Oh," Frodo said pretending to be pretending to be interested. Jack turned to the door with a very sly look in his eye.
"Perhaps, I could help you?" he said. Frodo looked at him suspiciously.
"How?"
"I've got something you want.... Something you- lost," He said swaying. Frodo's eyes widened and he grabbed the bars.
"MALL'ELEN?! Give it to me!" He said before he could catch himself.
"Oh, there, there, now. It wasn't necessary to tip your hand quite yet, but since you already did- let's get down to business," he said looking at Frodo like he was a meal.
"There," Frodo said unlocking the door and swinging it open. Jack smiled and stepped out.
"We're not learning,' he said closing the door behind him with a clank "thank you, and goodnight," he said walking towards the hallway. Frodo ran in front of him.
"I did what you wanted!" Frodo cried. Jack gave him a pitiful look.
"Actually, we never discussed it, so if you please-," he said insinuating the Frodo should move aside.
"What do you want!" Frodo said anxiously. Jack became very concentrated and he peered down at Frodo with his dark lined eyes.
"You need to work on your timing, mate, I don't want anything now," he then proceeded to waltz passed Frodo who scurried after him, tears forming in his eyes.
"Where are you going?" Frodo called after him. Jack twirled around
"To my ship, Master Baggins," and he spun back around and kept walking toward the door.
"His ship," Frodo thought to himself. His brain was racing; images of the sea and of Valinor were coming up to the foreground of his mind. The ring seemed to fall through the cracks of his thoughts, which were sealed up with one driving mission "to go back."
Suddenly they heard the front door of the prison open with a jerk and voices could be heard. Jack and Frodo froze. The voices were coming towards them. Jack scanned the room for ideas.
"I'll cover for you," Frodo said and Jack tipped his head. "Go out the window- I'll tell them.something." Jack nodded with approval and started for the window. He had one leg out when Frodo stopped him.
"But first our deal," Frodo said resolutely. The voices could be heard down the hall now. Jack brought his leg back.
"Name your price."
"I'll get you out of this if you promise to take me with you," Frodo said meeting his eyes. A ferocity shone in Frodo that Jack had been waiting for.
" It was only a matter o' time, mate," Jack smiled.
"First mate," Frodo said narrowing his eyes and then softening "If you please."
"Done. " They shook hands and the door began to open. Jack slipped out of sight and Frodo stood there in fearful anticipation of who it could be. But suddenly there was a large commotion in the hallway and then everything went dead silent. He waited a few moments but still no sound of movement could be detected. Frodo motioned to Jack who reentered through the window.
"That was close," he said as he stepped down to Frodo. Suddenly a piercing scream cut the night air like a blade. Frodo froze and felt his stomach drop. His shoulder grew cold and his eyes became clouded. Jack raced to the window again and then looked back. Frodo stood motionless grasping at his shoulder.
"Come on," He said grabbing his shoulder and pulling him behind him. Frodo became limp and Jack spun around. He grasped Frodo by the neck.
"They'll be here any minute- "
"I'm not...ready," Frodo stammered.
"Maybe not," he said looking at Frodo "but they don't need to know it!" he reached down and unsheathed sting and held the blue blade aloft.
"Take this," he said thrusting the handle toward Frodo. He didn't move.
"TAKE IT!" Frodo's fingers wrapped around the handle slowly. Jack drew his own sword and he went toward the window again and still Frodo faltered. He looked back and a thought seemed to dance attractively through his mind and he walked up to Frodo and said
"I can help ya, mate- but only if we get one thing straight, I'm the Captain- and an order is an order- now MOVE you pathetic dog!" Frodo slowly turned his head and looked at Jack and his eyes grew less distant and a smile came over his face.
"Aye," he said and they both bolted through he door "Captain..."
They darted across the lawn to Imbalech's horse. Jack swung his leg up and tried to pull himself onto the beast but couldn't get off the ground. He grumbled to himself. Frodo walked up from the other side and climbed nimbly up to the saddle.
"Do you need a hand, Captain?" he said coyly. Jack sneered and took Frodo's tiny hand. They were quite a sight, a tiny hobbit riding on a large black horse with a corsair clinging to him for dear life. The sped off in hopes that whatever it was that had let loose such a terrible scream was far behind them. They rode on for hours. Imbalech's horse could make uncanny time. It was daylight when the white towers came into view. Frodo brought the horse to a stop and looked up at the majesty of the work of Gilgalad. He had built the towers for Elendil hundreds of years ago. War came and claimed both mighty warriors but the elves would come to the tallest tower and climb the long stair that they might gaze out into the endless blue oblivion. Some of the sharpest eyed could just barley make out the form of Elbereth on Mt. Telepiron gazing at them. Now it stood dark and empty.
Frodo hoped down from the horse, his gaze fixed on the tower. Jack slid slowly to the ground and stretched his legs with a groan.
"I think I have a saddle sore..." Frodo looked back at him with a wrinkled brow and then returned his attention to the looming tower. Jack hobbled up to him and looked up at what had him so interested.
"If we hope to make to my ship without a swarm of your munchkin friends on our heels- we'd best get a move on," he said looking suspiciously at Frodo.
"I know," Frodo replied without taking his eyes off the tower. "But I have to go up there," his eyes were distant. Jack grimaced and staggered toward the tower.
"Where are you going?" Frodo called out when he realized Jack was leaving.
"Up there!" he yelled back pointing his finger violently towards the top of the tower. Frodo tied the horse to a nearby tree and ran toward the tower.
When he got there Jack was no where to be seen. Frodo wondered for a second and then resolved to climb the tower no matter what happened. The going was slow; the stairs seemed to wrap around the tower endlessly. After what must've been half an hour Frodo began to see a light. He picked up the pace and as he turned the bend he came out into a small room with an enormously tall ceiling. There was an empty metal stand in the center of the room and behind it was an open balcony looking out toward the sea. He walked hesitantly toward the salty breeze. So many emotions awoke within him. He missed the West and all of its peace and beauty. But he loved Middle-Earth and all of its different inhabitants. Each seemed to fill a different position in the grand scheme of things. Each seemed important and that in a way made them beautiful too. It was as if amidst all the dirt and ugliness, the pure truth seemed to shine in direct contest with the beauty of Valinor. The evil had its place and purpose in Middle earth- was it not important too? He walked out on to the balcony. Immediately the breeze washed him with the smell of the sea and his gaze was lost in the endless blue horizon. Then a new feeling began to creep over him and gnaw at his thoughts. He felt a dark hand was reaching out of the East and grasping at him, trying to pull him towards.just then Jack put his hand on Frodo's shoulder. He spun around in alarm. Jack smiled a gold-toothy smile and walked to the railing of the balcony. He peered over the edge like a child.
"I bet if you dropped something- like a coin, and it hit them it would kill 'em!" he mused with undue fascination. Frodo was annoyed yet he continued.
"Well, it probably wouldn't kill 'em. Just knock 'em out." He walked back to Frodo and looked at him and then out to the horizon.
"Isn't she lovely?" Jack mused. Frodo shook off the start he had given him.
"Who?" Jack looked down at him confused.
"Her," he said pointing out the window towards the horizon. Frodo measured Jack in his eyes. Was he referring to the sea or could he see something else- or further more was he trying to make Frodo think he could see something else? Frodo turned back to the view and squinted as the sun caught the water and set blinding rays in his direction. Frodo's vision began to melt into a strange blurry light as he stared at the sea. His eyes seemed to take him far into the distance and then the image began to clarify. It was the same image he had beheld when he had fallen into the river- Elbereth. She stood on top of a great hill surrounded by an expanse. Her hand was held aloft and she was singing.
With mortal eyes I long to look at you,
Your soul assail on the briny blue.
Often have I peeked at you,
Hoping you would see me too.
Then she stopped and her eyes met with Frodo's and it seemed that in their meeting vast amounts of knowledge was transferred. Images passed before his eyes at a lightning speed. He saw the faces of Sam and of Imbalech and three rings, he saw a shadowy figure in the background and then a fleet of ships on the sea.
The blaring of a trumpet startled Frodo and the vision vanished like a wisp of smoking being blown away with the wind. Frodo looked around the room. Jack was no where to be seen. Then the trumpet blared again and he became aware of many voices shouting and growling from below the balcony. Frodo walked out into the open air only to barely miss being impaled by a shooting arrow. He jumped to the side and flattened his body against the wall of the tower. He swallowed hard as he took in the scene below. A massive army had surrounded the tower. He must've not noticed because of his vision. "That's what Jack had been looking at!" he cried. They were from Harad. Frodo recognized the yellow and black colors of the Desert Lord and could make out their dark eyes even from the balcony. There was no where for him to go.
*********************************************************************
Sam groaned and eased his aching body up from the floor of the prison. He looked around and marveled at the state of the place. Everything was overturned.the windows were broken and glass was splintered on the floor. He slowly rubbed his head and tried to remember what had happened before he had blacked out.
"That's right.Frodo, he's gone!" He suddenly jerked his body up from the floor and tried to stand. The movement was too much for his aching head and he collapsed to the floor.
"Got to find him." he groaned and then he caught sight of another body lying on the floor under a piece of furniture. He squinted and tried to get his foggy vision to clear. Then he recognized the golden hair and the green tunic.
"Imbalech!" Sam cried as he turned her over. She sputtered and opened her eyes. She was bleeding from her side.
"Oh..." Sam felt his heart sink when he saw her wound. Like a gust of wind the preceding events swooped into his memory. He saw the wedding, Frodo lying his bed- not moving. The image shifted to his bed empty and Sam rushing out of the house. Imbalech had found him running aimlessly into the night.
"Nazgul." she had said. But even now her words seemed foreign to him. How could there be Nazgul- they had departed middle earth with their master. Imbalech groaned and tried to sit up.
"Don't move," Sam said helping her to gently lie back down.
"They took her," she said, her voice wavering. Sam looked at her blankly. Then he remembered. Elanor's bed had been empty too. He went out of his mind. He stood up and began smashing what was left of the of the prison building. He swung wildly, smashing pieces of furniture and glassware. He picked a chair and threw it at door leading to the cell. But the door caught his eye. He remembered why they had come here.
"He's behind this.... mark my words," Sam clenched his fist and regained his composure. The only thought he now possessed was to find Jack Sparrow. Just then he remembered Imbalech and went to her.
"I have to get you out of here," He said. She looked at him hard.
"You have to find them- there's two Nazgul out there- who knows what else..."
"you're right, but-"
"Help me stand." She said resolutely. Sam touched her arm cautiously as the blood was coming from right below her rib. She pushed off with all her might and Sam managed to steady her as she reeled in pain.
"I can make it," She said to him, and began to hobble toward what was left of the door.
"Make it where?" he asked giving her something to lean on.
"To my horse, He can get us the rest of the way." they reached her horse and Sam helped her by keeping her from falling backwards as she performed the grueling task of pulling herself up into the saddle. She gave a hand down to Sam.
"You need to take the reins," She said "I don't know how much longer I'll be conscious." Sam began to shake holding the reins in his tiny hands.
"I don't understand. Where are we going?" He said tears forming in his eyes.
"After Jack and Frodo," she said and her chin dropped down to her chest.
**************************
The Army of Southrons swarmed over the ground below the tower. It was a solid seething mass of yellow and black, with glints of silver sticking up like spikes. They had weapons of every kind: spears, swords, both one handed and two handed. There were axes scattered throughout the companies (though they really had no order to them) and they had archers everywhere you looked. They had come prepared for anything. Some had flaming arrows, others grappling hooks with foreboding looking ropes attached to them. Frodo felt paralyzed, as he stood pressed to the tower wall. He should get off the balcony and take cover but he couldn't move. He was alone.... Just then he heard some noise down below. A few trumpets sounded and then he could make out voices. He peered over from the wall and could see that a procession was making its way through the crowd. There were several fearsome soldiers carrying a throne covered with a veil for the sun. They halted at the tower's base just below the balcony and a large dark man climbed down from the throne. He shown with gold and his long dark hair came down in tight braids over his round belly. He was the Desert Lord- their king. He tipped his head and sneered at the dark mouth of the balcony. He took a few steps forward and then spoke.
"He says he's up there, but I don't see- wait- YOU THERE! Declare yourself!" Frodo gulped and moved slowly away from the wall and to the edge of the balcony. He put his hands lightly on the railing.
"I'm just - a hobbit," he said meekly without knowing what to say.
"That much I can see!" the man retorted. "Your NAME?" He waited. Frodo seemed to run his fingers through the pages of the Red Book hopelessly searching for something of his quest to have an ounce of wisdom for this situation. He found his answer in "At the Sign of the Prancing Pony".
"I'm Mr. Underhill," he said. His voice fell hollowly on the crowd. They all seemed to tense at his answer. Jeers and snarls seemed to move through the army. The man scowled and seemed to turn away.
"You brought us the wrong one," he yelled toward the covered throne. Out from under the scarlet shade popped Jack's head. He looked up and squinted. He proceeded to fall off of the throne platform not realizing the guards had raised it again. He jumped up and raced to the King's side.
"Oh no, milord, that's definitely the one, I'm sure of it."
"This is what I get for hiring a good for nothing like Jack Sparrow to do a real corsair's job, " the man turned to the army and shouted "Dogs- lets mo-," Jack grabbed his hand and he stopped short. Jack leaned in
"This is the one, he had the ring..."
"That's another item on your "list of failures" " the King replied.
"You were supposed to bring us the hobbit and the ring- I've got no ring and a worthless hobbit! How do expect to get your ship back at this rate?" Something shifted in Jack's mind and he conceded quickly.
"You're right, your Excellency, we should get out of here before we attract the attention of taller folk," Jack glanced toward the balcony. Frodo hadn't moved but had watched the whole scene unfold. He couldn't believe Jack had betrayed him.
"What blinded me?" he thought "I must've lost my mind to be trusting someone like him."
The King once again raised his hand and ordered the army to move out. He then turned to one of his guards
"Shoot the halfling," he said. Jack's eyes widened.
"But sire-"
"It wont do us any good to have him tellin' all his aunts, uncles and cousin's what we're look'n for will it?" he sneered. "Guards, bring me his body." Jack winced and looked up anxiously at the tower. Two tall Southrons were barreling up the stairs. By this time Frodo was boiling in his misplaced trust.
"LET them shoot me Captain Sparrow- you heartless, brainless scoundrel. Every one was right! Not only can you not be trusted but you can't be trusted to even betray me correctly!" Frodo sealed his curse with a directed spit. It hit right on Jack's left boot. He looked up at Frodo and the magical light that is his keen resourcefulness went off in an instant array of brilliance.
"That was uncalled for Mr. Underhill- don't you know that even the smallest thing," his eyes narrowed and the guard aligned an arrow on his bow.
"When dropped from high place can change the world." Jack met Frodo's eyes, which widened with wondrous understanding. Frodo glanced to his right and sure enough there on the railing was Mall'elen. The ring sparkled as he picked it up. The guard was pulling back his bowstring. Frodo looked at the glittery jewel for a second, then at Jack's smile and let her drop. The ring hit the guard just as he was about to release and he toppled to the ground. The arrow lay unspent. Amidst the amazement Jack noted where the ring had fallen and took a step towards it. The guards could now be heard on the stairs and there was no where for Frodo to go. Jack swept the ring up into his hand and then ripped a bow equipped with an iron hook and rope out of the hands of the nearest guard.
"Thank you." he said and shot the grappling hook towards the balcony. Frodo jumped back as it clanked on to the railing. "There's no where to go- except down," he thought as the sounds of the guards could be heard echoing in the encircling staircase. Frodo took a deep breath and swung his leg over the rope and shut his eyes. The wind alone told him of his descent. Frodo hit the ground only to be caught in a full on brawl. Jack's sword played of the other weapons like a fiddle and the fat man had retreated into his covered throne. He was hitting the back of the heads of the guards to move him away from there.
Frodo unsheathed sting and hesitated as a man fell dead beside him. The men seemed to not notice him but where vehemently intent on running Jack threw in multiple places. Frodo darted in-between the combatant's legs and blocked wild swings meant for Jack's turned back. Jack fought away with a strange calmness. Frodo felt he must not be aware of the soldiers behind and to all sides of him. He anxiously caught each and every stroke that tried to fell the daft pirate. But then a monstrous man with black teeth and a grizzly axe came up from behind. Frodo looked in desperation as he raised his axe and swung it toward an unsuspecting Jack. Frodo shut his eyes. He heard a clank instead of the severing of flesh and opened his eyes to see Jack now fighting on top of the fallen axemen. Frodo blinked and began to smile. He continued to fight off the little stabs and kicks coming Jacks way and they eventually found themselves back to back. The entire Harad army enclosing upon them.
"What do ya think?" Jack asked excitedly.
"We're doomed."
"No- of pirates?!" He persisted. Frodo stopped fighting and turned to look at him. Just then the air was severed by an undead scream. Frodo froze and then army turned toward the black figures.
"I was so close," Frodo whimpered looking toward the sea. The army
seemed to bow and then the King came forward from his hiding spot.
"We- we have found him," He said bowing to the wraiths. They didn't move or speak. The silence started to rip Frodo limb from limb. He couldn't take it anymore. He burst through the ranks of the soldiers and stood before the Nazgul.
"Here I am if you want me!" Jack winced, sighed and put his hand to his head out of frustration.
"We have come to kill you," the Nazgul hissed. Frodo began to feel his head sway. Their voices were like a thick drink poured down his throat. It was making him dizzy. They edged closer to him. Just then they heard a voice.
"Excuse me," Jack said as he pushed passed the King and walked up to Frodo. He looked at Frodo who seemed to have retreated into a deep place within himself. Jack then looked to the Nazgul swaying a little bit. He seemed to have trouble focusing.
"Hmmm," he said sounding mildly interested in the undead kings before him. Suddenly he got a surprised look in his eye and he walked toward the Nazgul.
"Don't I know you?" he said if talking to someone he'd met on the street. The Nazgul seemed to almost be taken back by such a familiar comment.
"GET BACK!" it hissed.
"No, I'm sure I know you from some where- have you ever been to the lost isles, cause I'm sure I saw you there-" The Nazgul interrupted Jack with a piecing scream of anger.
"Begging your pardon, we didn't know you wanted to be alone," he said taking Frodo by the shoulders and begging to walk off. The Nazgul screamed again. They froze and turned around. But Jack slipped something cold into Frodo's weak hand.
"Give us the halfling- we've come to end his life!" they screeched.
"MY life's already gone- if you've come to end it- you're too late!" Frodo erupted. He then calmly held up Mall'elen and a great light came from it like a halo of blue. The light spread out over the entire army and they froze in awe. Jack smiled smugly. The Nazgul screamed in pain and fled. Frodo turned and faced the army.
"I am Frodo Baggins, bearer of Mall'elen. I've come for you...will you not follow me?" The crowd stood silent. Then the king came bumbling forward and he fell to his knees.
"We don't want to be slaves," he said.
"I will make you your own masters," Frodo said in a voice not his own. He seemed just as amazed as everyone else. The king looked up with tears in his eyes. He removed his crown of ivory and held it out to Frodo.
"Will you not show us the way- be our king?" Just then Sam rode up on Imbalech's horse. The elf was passed out and Sam was desperate. Frodo left the crowd and rushed to his friends. Jack came with him and helped Sam ease Imbalech off the horse. She awakened for a minute and said,
"I knew I'd find you Jack sparrow." and passed out again.