A/N - The songs listed in this fic are purely the work of Tolkien, not
mine (there is one little one about Arwen but that isn't in this part).
Also while I've finished the fic I don't think I'll post anymore unless
about five people review it for me. Thanks.
Part 15.
The night passed quietly with only the faint swiftness of something above,
that was gone in an instant.
The stars rose and set, renewing Arwen's strength like nothing else could.
Early the next morning the Fellowship began their journey over Caradhras.
At Boromir's advice they had added sticks to the burdens they already
carried, in order to light a fire, or make torches to light their way.
It was scarcely midmorning when the snow began to fall. By midday it was
knee deep. It fell continuously, forcing them to stop several times and add
insulating layers of clothing from their packs. During one of these stops
Arwen had bundled Elessar up in a spare cloth she had brought, and placed
him beneath her jacket and cloak to keep him warm. For Nallahir she
produced a lightweight blanket to keep the cold out, and had Sam and
Aragorn fasten a spare over Bill the pony to keep him warm.
In mid-afternoon the hobbits could no longer walk and see where they were
going.
"Sam?" Arwen called. "Frodo? Where are you?"
"Here!" Shouted both hobbits, trying in vain to see where they were going.
Arwen backtracked to find them, leading Nallahir with her.
"Arwen?" She heard Aragorn shout. "Are you all right?"
"I'm trying to get to Sam and Frodo!" She called back, still trying to get
to the hobbits.
Aragorn jogged back to help her, the freshly fallen snow crunching loudly
under his feet. Once he reached them he helped to lift the hobbits up onto
Nallahir's back. Arwen showed them where they could hold to the straps of
his blanket, and wrapped light-weight Elven blankets around each of them,
to try and insulate their sodden clothing against the icy wind.
Finally the snow was between chest and shoulder deep on Aragorn, Boromir
and Gandalf, who were forced to plow through it. Gimli rode astride
Nallahir with Sam and Frodo, while Arwen and Legolas carried the two
remaining hobbits, Merry and Pippin. The Elves feet not sinking into the
snow, but leaving the barest hint of footprints behind them.
Finally, the men dragged themselves up onto a rock-ledge. They threw
themselves down into the snow, unable to go any further. Merry and Pippin
were soon set down and Gimli, Sam and Frodo were helped down from
Nallahir's back. Arwen offered both Nallahir and Bill a handful of crushed
oats each, praising each profusely for their efforts. Then to each of the
Fellowship she offered a leather flask taken from one of Nallahir's
saddlebags. It contained a cordial that served to warm the mind and body.
"This is senseless." Legolas told the company. "This snow will be the death
of the hobbits. We have already almost lost two of them, once. If everyone
will wait here, I will run on ahead and find the best paths for us to
take."
"I will go with you." Arwen volunteered. "With two of us it will go
faster."
Gandalf, Aragorn and Boromir nodded, each almost exhausted after the effort
of pushing through the snow.
"Where should we look to head?" Legolas asked Gandalf.
"Away from Caradhras." Gandalf told them wearily. "The mountain has
defeated us."
Both Elves checked the straps on their weapons, removing anything they
would not need, before turning and dashing off, skimming lightly over the
top of the newly falling snow.
It was only scant hours before they returned, both a little out of breath,
but still able to talk, and explain to the others the route they had found
off the mountain.
Stumbling after the Elves, with Gimli, Sam and Frodo once more astride
Nallahir, and Merry and Pippin riding Bill the packhorse, they were able to
make fairly good time.
It was mid-morning of the next day before the Fellowship was clear of
Caradhras.
Once they stopped to rest a fire was lit, providing enough warmth for
everyone to get rid of their wet outer clothes and place on outer things
from their packs which were somewhat drier than the things they had been
wearing.
They rested there that night, unsure of where their quest would take them
next.
"What shall we do now?" Merry asked early the next morning.
"We still have our errand to fulfill." Gandalf told him.
Frodo nodded, the Ring weighing heavily on his mind.
"We have two choices," Gandalf began, his heart heavy. "We can return to
Rivendell."
Merry and Pippin brightened at his words.
Arwen bowed her head, unwilling to accept Gandalf's first proposal. She
looked up at him her blue eyes sparkling like stars in the morning light."
"There are several other ways which we could try though." Gandalf
explained. "I had not mentioned them, because the pass over Caradhras was
the safest way, I thought."
"Speak then of these other paths." Boromir demanded.
"One would be to make for the Gap of Rohan." Gandalf told them.
"I know the people of Rohan well." Boromir told the others, "They would
welcome us, aid us on our quest."
"But such a journey would take us close to Isenguard." Legolas reasoned,
"Is that wise? Saruman wants the One Ring as badly as Sauron himself."
"What of this other way you speak of then?" Boromir questioned.
"The other path I speak of would take us through the Mines of Moria."
Gandalf finished.
Gimli brightened slightly. "My cousin Balin would give us a fine welcome."
"Which way shall we take then?" Sam mused.
For a moment no one spoke.
"Which way would you have us take Frodo?" Arwen asked him. "As ring-bearer
you alone have right to judge our path."
Frodo was silent for a long moment. He turned to look back at Caradhras,
and then forward at the land that lay before them. "We will go through the
mines." He answered softly.
The journey to the closed gates of Moria was long and tedious, but not all
together uncomfortable. They traveled swiftly long into the nights,
beginning long before the sun rose. In the distance wargs howled, making
all of the company shiver and tremble.
Part 16.
The place in which Gimli, and indeed Gandalf claimed the closed gate of
Moria to be was surrounded by sheer cliffs and most of the valley was
covered by a large dam, filled with fetid smelling water.
Unwilling to venture closer to the water that was absolutely necessary
Arwen led Nallahir towards the wall, with Sam and Bill the pony not far
behind.
Arwen said nothing but began to unload the items Nallahir carried. She knew
that he could not venture into the mines. Sam watched her closely before
asking her what she was doing.
"Oh, Sam." Arwen began, "Nallahir and Bill have come to the last of their
journey with us. They cannot, and will not venture into the mines. Horses
don't belong there."
Sam stared up at her. "What will happen to them then? We can't just leave
them here!"
"We must Sam, or you will find yourself choosing between Bill and your
master. Nallahir and Bill have become good friends, they will journey back
to Rivendell together. The power of the Elves will protect them, and
Nallahir has some magic of his own. They will be all right. Unpack Bill's
load. Leave what isn't absolutely necessary here."
In her heart Arwen sympathized with him. Nallahir had seen her through some
truly amazing journeys, saved her and Frodo from the Ring Wraiths. She did
not want to leave him anymore than Sam did Bill.
The rest of the company sat and waited, unsure of what they were waiting
for. For his own safety Arwen tucked Elessar down into the front of her
tunic, after feeding him a few drops of a viscous, honey-like fluid. The
bird slept calmly.
Arwen passed the time as she had done so often before pointing out the
stars to the hobbits, even Gimli and Boromir and telling them the stories
behind each.
Her heart soared as the Evenstar began to rise.
It was longer before the moon rose though. As it did so one of the cliffs
came alive, gossamer threads intertwining to produce lines and pictures
spreading out over the cliff-side.
The lines joined together forming a door with writing above. Below a tree
materialized along with a twelve pointed star.
Arwen breathed in softly. "The Tree of the High Elves."
"The Star of the House of Feanor." Gandalf gestured to it.
"Then this is indeed the gate we are looking for." Boromir stated.
"Indeed." Gimli nodded.
"Well, how do we open the gate and get inside?" Pippin asked.
"Quite a puzzle Master Hobbit." Aragorn answered, already looking over the
script flowing over the top of the door.
"The script is Elvish, I cannot read the words though. They are written in
the tongue of the Western Elves of Middle Earth from the Elder Days."
Gandalf told them, looking dejected. "I have failed you once more."
"The Doors of Durin, Lord of Moria. Speak, friend, and enter." Arwen spoke
softly, her voice carrying in the clear night air. "Beneath that is
written, 'I, Narvi, made them. Celebrimbor of Hollin drew these signs.'"
Boromir exhaled loudly. "You mean that, you can read this."
"As easily as I would suppose you read your own tongue." Arwen answered him
quietly.
"What does it mean?" Merry asked, "How do we get inside?"
"Arwen, do you have any idea?" Aragorn asked, directing his attention to
her.
"I would say that to be considered a friend you would need a password. I
don't know what they would have used, or if it could be changed." Arwen
shook her head. "I'm sorry."
"Not a worry," Gandalf smiled at him, his features shadowed, yet still
clear to Elf eyes.
He turned to the door to begin work.
Finally, he sat back on one of the stone steps which lay at the base of the
door.
Arwen sat curled up with the hobbits, a light blanket keeping the cold at
bay. It was absurd that they could come so far, and not be able to pass.
She felt Frodo shift beside her. "La-, Arwen, what is the Elvish word for
friend?"
"Mellon." She answered, her mind following the same path his had.
On command, the doors swung open, revealing the cold dark of Moria.
Pippin and Merry, who had been skipping stones across the water turned and
cheered.
Taken aback by the vastness of the darkness Frodo stepped back a few paces,
into the waiting tentacles of the creature who dwelled in the fetid pool.
Horrified the rest of the Fellowship looked on as the Sleeper in the Water
dragged Frodo backwards, flinging him high up into the air with it's
tentacles.
Aragorn reacted first, unsheathing his sword and slicing at the beast in an
effort to rescue his small friend.
Legolas and Arwen unleashed a volley of arrows at the creatures free
tentacles and mouth.
Boromir and Gandalf rushed in with their swords, hacking away at the
creature with less finesse than Aragorn showed. Gimli and the hobbits also
made used of their weapons, but none were able to venture very far into the
murky water.
Finally they were able to prevail against the creature, which seemed to
decide that its appetite was no match for the party slashing ruthlessly at
its body and tentacles.
Frodo was dropped unceremoniously on top of Aragorn as the Sleeper made a
hasty retreat.
Hurriedly the Ten picked up their belongings and fled into the darkness of
Moria, collapsing just inside the door.
Behind them the doors slammed shut, the echo almost deafening, leaving the
company in the pitch black.
The darkness of Moria was different to the darkness outside, this dark was
heavy, old, almost suffocating.
Suddenly a violet light erupted from the point of Gandalf's staff, casting
an eerie light over the chamber.
Arwen smiled in the dimness. She closed her eyes and took a breath, feeling
her necklace become light.
When she opened her eyes again the rest of the Company was staring at her.
"There's an interesting party trick." Gimli told her, secretly glad of the
light she emitted.
"How long will the effect last?" Boromir asked.
"The light of the Evenstar does not wax and wane." She told them. "It is
constant, even in the greatest darkness."
Legolas bowed his head to her, acknowledging her as the Light of his
People.
Arwen gasped as she took a good look around the chamber. The bodies of
decomposing Orcs littered the floor, along with the bodies of Dwarves, each
shot through with arrows, or cut down by the evil scythes the Orcs carried.
Gimli fell to his knees, speaking an ancient prayer, guiding the souls of
the Dwarves to eternal rest.
Arwen joined him, out of friendship and honor, speaking the prayer softly
with him.
After a short time Gandalf picked up his pack, silently saying that they
were moving on immediately. "Gimli, walk with me if you will. Others follow
on." He instructed.
The party moved out once more, with Gandalf and Gimli leading, Merry and
Pippin close behind. After them came Boromir, then Arwen, Frodo and Sam,
followed closely by Legolas and Aragorn.
At regular intervals during their march Arwen unsheathed her sword
slightly, just enough so that she could see the blade. As with Sting and
Glamdring, her own blade Shalat glowed blue when Orcs were near.
Thankfully her blade stayed silver, a comforting thing in all of the dark
of Moria.
Still, despite her blade telling that the company was in no danger from
Orcs, Arwen had the distinct feeling that they were being followed. Every
so often when they halted for a moment, the sound of bare feet on stone
could be heard. Not an echo, for it pitter-pattered on for a few moments
after the others had stilled, then became silent too. It was not until they
moved off again that the sound could be heard.
Several times she turned her head to gaze into the darkness, but found
nothing there.
Part 17.
Many hours into the darkness, night on the second day since they had
entered Moria, Arwen guessed, almost certain she was right, due to the pull
of the stars on her heart. Gandalf had stopped and sat, like he had many
times before, trying to decide which passage they would follow.
"We're lost." She heard Boromir say.
"Do not give up hope." Arwen said softly.
"It has forsaken this journey." Boromir bit out.
"It has not forsaken me." She answered him calmly. "You would do well to
hope a little more, Man of Gondor."
In the dimness Arwen saw Aragorn and Legolas smile.
"Ah," Gandalf told them suddenly. "It is this way." He gestured with his
staff.
At long last they came to the paths of the Great Halls of Dwarrowdelf, the
city under the mountain.
They entered one of the Halls, in the hope of finding that some of the
Dwarves of Moria had survived the Orc invasion.
As they looked about the stone-hewn room Pippin drew steadily closer to a
well, it's bucket sitting on top of the wall surrounding the opening.
Then, unexpectedly, he stumbled knocking the bucket down the well, the tin
pail clattering loudly all of the way down. The chain holding it clattered
down too, making just as much, if not more noise, it's motion sending a
coat of Dwarvish armor down too.
Gandalf glared at him. "Fool of a Took! Throw yourself in too next time and
rid us of your foolishness!"
For a few moments all was still. Then from the deep caverns of Khazad-dum
drums started.
Tom tap, tap-tom.
When the echoes had faded the drums began again.
Tap-tom, tom-tap, tap-tap, tom.
Immediately Arwen's body stopped glowing, and for just a moment they were
plunged into darkness.
"We have been too careless." She whispered, allowing a small ball of light
to fill her palm. It glowed with the iridescence of the star for which she
was named.
The Fellowship looked around at the chamber in which they stood. The dark
rock glittered in the light.
They were alone in the chamber.
Part 18.
Silently, following Gandalf's lead, they began walking again.
"Gimli, was Moria very busy, once?" Sam asked.
"Very, Master Hobbit." Gimli told him. "In the days of Old, the Dwarves of
Moria delved deep for their treasure."
"Why so deep for dwarf toys and the like?" Boromir asked, sounding
interested.
"The treasures of Moria were gold, silver and jewels. But the most
valuable, hardest to find treasure of Moria was what the Elves call
mithril, Dwarves have different name for it. A secret name, but that was
the treasure of Moria. That is why the Dwarves came back." Gimli spoke.
"Bilbo had a coat of mithril-rings, given to him by Thorin." Gandalf told
them. "I wonder what became of it? It is probably gathering dust in Michel
Delving Mathom-house."
"A corselet of Moria silver!" Gimli exclaimed, "That was a kingly gift."
"I never told Bilbo of it's worth. It is probably worth more than the Shire
and everything in it." Gandalf explained to the hobbits. He stopped, the
drums began once more, resounding from the depths, yet somehow closer this
time.
"Move now." Gandalf ordered, leading them into a chamber off what Gimli had
called the Main Hall.
Once they were all inside Aragorn and Legolas began trying to bar the old
wooden door. Boromir hurried over to help.
After the task was accomplished, they stared around the room.
A strange sense of foreboding filled Arwen. In the center of the room stood
a great sarcophagus, carved from the same glittering black stone as the
Main Hall had been hewn. It was polished to a smooth finish, gentle on the
fingers, cool to the touch.
Gandalf and Gimli approached it, reading the Dwarf runes. "Here lies Balin,
son of Fundin. Lord of Moria."
On top of the sarcophagus lay two things that should not have been there.
The first was a book, partially charred and damaged by holes and tears, the
second was a ceremonial ax, inlaid with all the precious treasures Moria
had to offer.
Out of respect for Gimli and his kinsman, who had been a guest at Rivendell
several times, Arwen touched her two fingers to her lips and then to her
forehead, making the gesture three times.
Silently she said a prayer for Dain and the other Dwarves who had fallen,
invoking protection against the Evil Eye at the same time.
As she prayed Gandalf opened the book, and in a steady voice began to read
the last entry. "We cannot get out. They have taken the bridge and the
second hall. We cannot get out. The end comes. Drums, drums in the deep...
We cannot get out. They are coming..."
As he finished speaking the drums began again, not talking drums, but a
deep, steady war drum.
Boom.
"Why did I delay?" Gandalf cursed.
Doom. Doom.
Arwen unsheathed Shalat, immediately noticing the blue glow of the blade.
"Orcs." She cried, as Gandalf and Frodo unsheathed Glamdring and Sting.
Doom. Doom.
"We must wedge the doors." Aragorn told them, rushing over to do just that.
Arwen sheathed Shalat and rushed over to help him, followed by Gimli,
Legolas, Boromir and Gandalf.
"Arwen, go. Stay with the hobbits." Aragorn ordered.
She turned from her task, sliding her longbow over her head and nocking an
arrow. Standing in front of the hobbits she trained her aim on the doors.
Already the old wood was fragmenting and shattering under the Orc's attack.
As a scaly, slimy hand pushed through. Arwen took aim and fired upon it,
just inches away from Aragorn's throat. With a cry the hand was withdraw,
but the Orcs renewed their frenzied attack.
Finally they gave the door away, stepping back quickly into the room to set
up a perimeter.
Taking advantage of the old stairway Arwen had herded the hobbits up, in
the hope of keeping them safe from danger. She stood at the top of the
stairs, arrow at the ready.
As the Orcs filtered into the room Arwen and Legolas downstairs loosed
arrows against them, killing several Orcs, which were then trampled .
Aragorn, Boromir and Gandalf made great use of their swords, demonstrating
the finesse shown only by experienced swordsmen.
Gimli, not to be outdone had seized up Dain's ax and began hacking at the
Orcs, cleaving them apart.
Behind her the hobbits fidgeted, wanting to take part in the battle.
Suddenly Frodo shouted, "The Shire!" and dashed down the stairs, followed
by his friends and kinsmen, all cheering the same cry. Arwen paused a
second to look down at them, a wave of hope surged through her. They would
get out of here. She was sure of it. She only had to find an opening in the
battle for them to make their escape.
Then to her shock a cave troll entered the chamber waving it's club about
wildly.
It hit more Orcs than anything else, with Gimli and Legolas both ducking
under the club strokes.
Nocking two arrows at once, Arwen fired them simultaneously at the troll.
As they made contact the creature wailed wildly, in great pain, for Arwen
had aimed for the most sensitive areas the cave troll had, its ears and
neck.
Across the room Legolas fired upon the creature as well, trying to cripple
it before it managed to kill one of their own. Legolas managed to shoot the
troll in it's eye, blinding it.
Now blind, mad with pain and fear the creature lashed out taking up a heavy
iron spear and thrusting it directly at Frodo. The spear caught him on his
right side, slamming him against the back wall with the force of the blow.
Sliding her bow over her head she drew Shalat and darted down the stairs,
slicing her way to where Frodo lay.
Aragorn fought his way over as well, shielding them both. Hurriedly she
sheathed Shalat and grabbed Frodo.
"This way!" Aragorn called, starting for the door. The others made their
way over and the Company began to flee from the raging Orcs.
In Arwen's arms Frodo moved. "I am all right." He told her, "I can walk,
put me down."
Startled she put Frodo down, unsheathing her sword, and dragging Frodo
along behind her. Aragorn turned his head when he heard Frodo speak, but
said nothing.
Finally they reached a gate and a bridge.
"Run you fools!" Gandalf shouted at them, "Take the paths down and to the
right."
Obeying his orders the others fled.
In her heart Arwen knew what was now chasing them. A creature of the
darkness. A Balrog.
Pulling Sam and Frodo with her, so that they could keep up, she followed
Aragorn closely, not wanting to get lost in the tunnels.
In the distance the drums beats came again, this time faster, more urgent.
Doom. Doom.
Finally Gandalf caught up with them. The drums beats, despite following
them had grown muffled and far away.
Out of breath, energy almost spent they stopped to rest a moment.
Arwen immediately went to tend to Frodo. "Are you all right?"
"I am bruised and sore." He told them, "But I will live."
"I thought you were dead." Aragorn told him.
"These hobbits must be made of tougher stuff than they look." Boromir
praised.
From a pouch on her belt Arwen produced a small clay jar full of round
yellow spheres. "Take one, everyone. We'll need more than just energy to
get out of here."
A smile split Sam's grim expression. "They taste like honey."
"They are orlas. One is enough to give enough strength to a grown elf for a
whole days travel. We must get out of Moria. This placed is cursed." Arwen
told them.
Part 19.
As they began walking again, much faster than before, the drums sounded
once more, the beats resounding closer and closer.
Startled Gandalf broke into a run. The others followed him closely.
Doom. Doom.
The drum beats rolled on, steadily coming closer.
Behind them a small army of Orcs swarmed.
Yanking her bow over her head Arwen turned to fire upon them, as did
Legolas. Unprepared for what Arwen had already known had come, Legolas
shouted in fear and dropped his arrow. Arwen loosed hers and darted to
Legolas' side to drag him along with her. Gimli stood stock-still as well,
his ax raised. "Durin's Bane." He murmured, sounding amazed at the sight in
front of him. Shaking her head as she ran, Arwen grabbed him with her bow
hand forcing him to run.
Gandalf lead them to a narrow bridge. "You must get across. Swords are no
use here. This is a fight of magic now."
Fearlessly Boromir grabbed Merry, the nearest hobbit to him, and darted
across the narrow bridge.
"Go Gimli." Arwen urged, "Take Pippin with you."
Gimli obeyed her, carrying Pippin like a sack of potatoes.
The Orcs on the opposite wall began to aim better. "Legolas, see if you can
bring some of them down." Aragorn ordered, "Come across with us. Arwen and
I will take Sam and Frodo."
Seizing Sam up Arwen held him in one arm, drawing Shalat with her other.
Using the sword as she ran she was able to deflect any stray arrows coming
their way. Following her lead Aragorn did the same, with Frodo in one arm,
watching Gandalf over Aragorn's shoulder, and Anduril in the other. Legolas
brought up their rear, firing arrows into the darkness, making the Orcs cry
out in pain, and fall from their hiding places into the depths of Moria.
At the other side of the bridge Gimli, Boromir and the two hobbits waited
for them.
As the reached safety Arwen turned and watched Gandalf. Along with her the
others watched as Gandalf faced the creature. Legolas trembled slightly
beside her.
They watched as Gandalf severed the causeway, and watched still as the
Balrog's whip of flame snapped up to drag Gandalf into the abyss of Moria.
All heard his last command. "Fly, you fools!"
With a heavy heart Arwen followed Aragorn through the twists and turns of
Moria, and finally out into the bright sunshine.
They threw themselves onto the warm rocks and lay there for several
moments. Arwen felt tears begin to trickle down her cheeks. Gandalf had
long been a friend of hers and her father's. Silently she tried to comfort
Frodo, who was lost in his grief.
After several more minutes Aragorn insisted on moving. Arwen supported his
decision, helping Frodo and Sam to their feet. The Company, now minus one
marched on, silenced by grief, but at the same time, bound by it.
mine (there is one little one about Arwen but that isn't in this part).
Also while I've finished the fic I don't think I'll post anymore unless
about five people review it for me. Thanks.
Part 15.
The night passed quietly with only the faint swiftness of something above,
that was gone in an instant.
The stars rose and set, renewing Arwen's strength like nothing else could.
Early the next morning the Fellowship began their journey over Caradhras.
At Boromir's advice they had added sticks to the burdens they already
carried, in order to light a fire, or make torches to light their way.
It was scarcely midmorning when the snow began to fall. By midday it was
knee deep. It fell continuously, forcing them to stop several times and add
insulating layers of clothing from their packs. During one of these stops
Arwen had bundled Elessar up in a spare cloth she had brought, and placed
him beneath her jacket and cloak to keep him warm. For Nallahir she
produced a lightweight blanket to keep the cold out, and had Sam and
Aragorn fasten a spare over Bill the pony to keep him warm.
In mid-afternoon the hobbits could no longer walk and see where they were
going.
"Sam?" Arwen called. "Frodo? Where are you?"
"Here!" Shouted both hobbits, trying in vain to see where they were going.
Arwen backtracked to find them, leading Nallahir with her.
"Arwen?" She heard Aragorn shout. "Are you all right?"
"I'm trying to get to Sam and Frodo!" She called back, still trying to get
to the hobbits.
Aragorn jogged back to help her, the freshly fallen snow crunching loudly
under his feet. Once he reached them he helped to lift the hobbits up onto
Nallahir's back. Arwen showed them where they could hold to the straps of
his blanket, and wrapped light-weight Elven blankets around each of them,
to try and insulate their sodden clothing against the icy wind.
Finally the snow was between chest and shoulder deep on Aragorn, Boromir
and Gandalf, who were forced to plow through it. Gimli rode astride
Nallahir with Sam and Frodo, while Arwen and Legolas carried the two
remaining hobbits, Merry and Pippin. The Elves feet not sinking into the
snow, but leaving the barest hint of footprints behind them.
Finally, the men dragged themselves up onto a rock-ledge. They threw
themselves down into the snow, unable to go any further. Merry and Pippin
were soon set down and Gimli, Sam and Frodo were helped down from
Nallahir's back. Arwen offered both Nallahir and Bill a handful of crushed
oats each, praising each profusely for their efforts. Then to each of the
Fellowship she offered a leather flask taken from one of Nallahir's
saddlebags. It contained a cordial that served to warm the mind and body.
"This is senseless." Legolas told the company. "This snow will be the death
of the hobbits. We have already almost lost two of them, once. If everyone
will wait here, I will run on ahead and find the best paths for us to
take."
"I will go with you." Arwen volunteered. "With two of us it will go
faster."
Gandalf, Aragorn and Boromir nodded, each almost exhausted after the effort
of pushing through the snow.
"Where should we look to head?" Legolas asked Gandalf.
"Away from Caradhras." Gandalf told them wearily. "The mountain has
defeated us."
Both Elves checked the straps on their weapons, removing anything they
would not need, before turning and dashing off, skimming lightly over the
top of the newly falling snow.
It was only scant hours before they returned, both a little out of breath,
but still able to talk, and explain to the others the route they had found
off the mountain.
Stumbling after the Elves, with Gimli, Sam and Frodo once more astride
Nallahir, and Merry and Pippin riding Bill the packhorse, they were able to
make fairly good time.
It was mid-morning of the next day before the Fellowship was clear of
Caradhras.
Once they stopped to rest a fire was lit, providing enough warmth for
everyone to get rid of their wet outer clothes and place on outer things
from their packs which were somewhat drier than the things they had been
wearing.
They rested there that night, unsure of where their quest would take them
next.
"What shall we do now?" Merry asked early the next morning.
"We still have our errand to fulfill." Gandalf told him.
Frodo nodded, the Ring weighing heavily on his mind.
"We have two choices," Gandalf began, his heart heavy. "We can return to
Rivendell."
Merry and Pippin brightened at his words.
Arwen bowed her head, unwilling to accept Gandalf's first proposal. She
looked up at him her blue eyes sparkling like stars in the morning light."
"There are several other ways which we could try though." Gandalf
explained. "I had not mentioned them, because the pass over Caradhras was
the safest way, I thought."
"Speak then of these other paths." Boromir demanded.
"One would be to make for the Gap of Rohan." Gandalf told them.
"I know the people of Rohan well." Boromir told the others, "They would
welcome us, aid us on our quest."
"But such a journey would take us close to Isenguard." Legolas reasoned,
"Is that wise? Saruman wants the One Ring as badly as Sauron himself."
"What of this other way you speak of then?" Boromir questioned.
"The other path I speak of would take us through the Mines of Moria."
Gandalf finished.
Gimli brightened slightly. "My cousin Balin would give us a fine welcome."
"Which way shall we take then?" Sam mused.
For a moment no one spoke.
"Which way would you have us take Frodo?" Arwen asked him. "As ring-bearer
you alone have right to judge our path."
Frodo was silent for a long moment. He turned to look back at Caradhras,
and then forward at the land that lay before them. "We will go through the
mines." He answered softly.
The journey to the closed gates of Moria was long and tedious, but not all
together uncomfortable. They traveled swiftly long into the nights,
beginning long before the sun rose. In the distance wargs howled, making
all of the company shiver and tremble.
Part 16.
The place in which Gimli, and indeed Gandalf claimed the closed gate of
Moria to be was surrounded by sheer cliffs and most of the valley was
covered by a large dam, filled with fetid smelling water.
Unwilling to venture closer to the water that was absolutely necessary
Arwen led Nallahir towards the wall, with Sam and Bill the pony not far
behind.
Arwen said nothing but began to unload the items Nallahir carried. She knew
that he could not venture into the mines. Sam watched her closely before
asking her what she was doing.
"Oh, Sam." Arwen began, "Nallahir and Bill have come to the last of their
journey with us. They cannot, and will not venture into the mines. Horses
don't belong there."
Sam stared up at her. "What will happen to them then? We can't just leave
them here!"
"We must Sam, or you will find yourself choosing between Bill and your
master. Nallahir and Bill have become good friends, they will journey back
to Rivendell together. The power of the Elves will protect them, and
Nallahir has some magic of his own. They will be all right. Unpack Bill's
load. Leave what isn't absolutely necessary here."
In her heart Arwen sympathized with him. Nallahir had seen her through some
truly amazing journeys, saved her and Frodo from the Ring Wraiths. She did
not want to leave him anymore than Sam did Bill.
The rest of the company sat and waited, unsure of what they were waiting
for. For his own safety Arwen tucked Elessar down into the front of her
tunic, after feeding him a few drops of a viscous, honey-like fluid. The
bird slept calmly.
Arwen passed the time as she had done so often before pointing out the
stars to the hobbits, even Gimli and Boromir and telling them the stories
behind each.
Her heart soared as the Evenstar began to rise.
It was longer before the moon rose though. As it did so one of the cliffs
came alive, gossamer threads intertwining to produce lines and pictures
spreading out over the cliff-side.
The lines joined together forming a door with writing above. Below a tree
materialized along with a twelve pointed star.
Arwen breathed in softly. "The Tree of the High Elves."
"The Star of the House of Feanor." Gandalf gestured to it.
"Then this is indeed the gate we are looking for." Boromir stated.
"Indeed." Gimli nodded.
"Well, how do we open the gate and get inside?" Pippin asked.
"Quite a puzzle Master Hobbit." Aragorn answered, already looking over the
script flowing over the top of the door.
"The script is Elvish, I cannot read the words though. They are written in
the tongue of the Western Elves of Middle Earth from the Elder Days."
Gandalf told them, looking dejected. "I have failed you once more."
"The Doors of Durin, Lord of Moria. Speak, friend, and enter." Arwen spoke
softly, her voice carrying in the clear night air. "Beneath that is
written, 'I, Narvi, made them. Celebrimbor of Hollin drew these signs.'"
Boromir exhaled loudly. "You mean that, you can read this."
"As easily as I would suppose you read your own tongue." Arwen answered him
quietly.
"What does it mean?" Merry asked, "How do we get inside?"
"Arwen, do you have any idea?" Aragorn asked, directing his attention to
her.
"I would say that to be considered a friend you would need a password. I
don't know what they would have used, or if it could be changed." Arwen
shook her head. "I'm sorry."
"Not a worry," Gandalf smiled at him, his features shadowed, yet still
clear to Elf eyes.
He turned to the door to begin work.
Finally, he sat back on one of the stone steps which lay at the base of the
door.
Arwen sat curled up with the hobbits, a light blanket keeping the cold at
bay. It was absurd that they could come so far, and not be able to pass.
She felt Frodo shift beside her. "La-, Arwen, what is the Elvish word for
friend?"
"Mellon." She answered, her mind following the same path his had.
On command, the doors swung open, revealing the cold dark of Moria.
Pippin and Merry, who had been skipping stones across the water turned and
cheered.
Taken aback by the vastness of the darkness Frodo stepped back a few paces,
into the waiting tentacles of the creature who dwelled in the fetid pool.
Horrified the rest of the Fellowship looked on as the Sleeper in the Water
dragged Frodo backwards, flinging him high up into the air with it's
tentacles.
Aragorn reacted first, unsheathing his sword and slicing at the beast in an
effort to rescue his small friend.
Legolas and Arwen unleashed a volley of arrows at the creatures free
tentacles and mouth.
Boromir and Gandalf rushed in with their swords, hacking away at the
creature with less finesse than Aragorn showed. Gimli and the hobbits also
made used of their weapons, but none were able to venture very far into the
murky water.
Finally they were able to prevail against the creature, which seemed to
decide that its appetite was no match for the party slashing ruthlessly at
its body and tentacles.
Frodo was dropped unceremoniously on top of Aragorn as the Sleeper made a
hasty retreat.
Hurriedly the Ten picked up their belongings and fled into the darkness of
Moria, collapsing just inside the door.
Behind them the doors slammed shut, the echo almost deafening, leaving the
company in the pitch black.
The darkness of Moria was different to the darkness outside, this dark was
heavy, old, almost suffocating.
Suddenly a violet light erupted from the point of Gandalf's staff, casting
an eerie light over the chamber.
Arwen smiled in the dimness. She closed her eyes and took a breath, feeling
her necklace become light.
When she opened her eyes again the rest of the Company was staring at her.
"There's an interesting party trick." Gimli told her, secretly glad of the
light she emitted.
"How long will the effect last?" Boromir asked.
"The light of the Evenstar does not wax and wane." She told them. "It is
constant, even in the greatest darkness."
Legolas bowed his head to her, acknowledging her as the Light of his
People.
Arwen gasped as she took a good look around the chamber. The bodies of
decomposing Orcs littered the floor, along with the bodies of Dwarves, each
shot through with arrows, or cut down by the evil scythes the Orcs carried.
Gimli fell to his knees, speaking an ancient prayer, guiding the souls of
the Dwarves to eternal rest.
Arwen joined him, out of friendship and honor, speaking the prayer softly
with him.
After a short time Gandalf picked up his pack, silently saying that they
were moving on immediately. "Gimli, walk with me if you will. Others follow
on." He instructed.
The party moved out once more, with Gandalf and Gimli leading, Merry and
Pippin close behind. After them came Boromir, then Arwen, Frodo and Sam,
followed closely by Legolas and Aragorn.
At regular intervals during their march Arwen unsheathed her sword
slightly, just enough so that she could see the blade. As with Sting and
Glamdring, her own blade Shalat glowed blue when Orcs were near.
Thankfully her blade stayed silver, a comforting thing in all of the dark
of Moria.
Still, despite her blade telling that the company was in no danger from
Orcs, Arwen had the distinct feeling that they were being followed. Every
so often when they halted for a moment, the sound of bare feet on stone
could be heard. Not an echo, for it pitter-pattered on for a few moments
after the others had stilled, then became silent too. It was not until they
moved off again that the sound could be heard.
Several times she turned her head to gaze into the darkness, but found
nothing there.
Part 17.
Many hours into the darkness, night on the second day since they had
entered Moria, Arwen guessed, almost certain she was right, due to the pull
of the stars on her heart. Gandalf had stopped and sat, like he had many
times before, trying to decide which passage they would follow.
"We're lost." She heard Boromir say.
"Do not give up hope." Arwen said softly.
"It has forsaken this journey." Boromir bit out.
"It has not forsaken me." She answered him calmly. "You would do well to
hope a little more, Man of Gondor."
In the dimness Arwen saw Aragorn and Legolas smile.
"Ah," Gandalf told them suddenly. "It is this way." He gestured with his
staff.
At long last they came to the paths of the Great Halls of Dwarrowdelf, the
city under the mountain.
They entered one of the Halls, in the hope of finding that some of the
Dwarves of Moria had survived the Orc invasion.
As they looked about the stone-hewn room Pippin drew steadily closer to a
well, it's bucket sitting on top of the wall surrounding the opening.
Then, unexpectedly, he stumbled knocking the bucket down the well, the tin
pail clattering loudly all of the way down. The chain holding it clattered
down too, making just as much, if not more noise, it's motion sending a
coat of Dwarvish armor down too.
Gandalf glared at him. "Fool of a Took! Throw yourself in too next time and
rid us of your foolishness!"
For a few moments all was still. Then from the deep caverns of Khazad-dum
drums started.
Tom tap, tap-tom.
When the echoes had faded the drums began again.
Tap-tom, tom-tap, tap-tap, tom.
Immediately Arwen's body stopped glowing, and for just a moment they were
plunged into darkness.
"We have been too careless." She whispered, allowing a small ball of light
to fill her palm. It glowed with the iridescence of the star for which she
was named.
The Fellowship looked around at the chamber in which they stood. The dark
rock glittered in the light.
They were alone in the chamber.
Part 18.
Silently, following Gandalf's lead, they began walking again.
"Gimli, was Moria very busy, once?" Sam asked.
"Very, Master Hobbit." Gimli told him. "In the days of Old, the Dwarves of
Moria delved deep for their treasure."
"Why so deep for dwarf toys and the like?" Boromir asked, sounding
interested.
"The treasures of Moria were gold, silver and jewels. But the most
valuable, hardest to find treasure of Moria was what the Elves call
mithril, Dwarves have different name for it. A secret name, but that was
the treasure of Moria. That is why the Dwarves came back." Gimli spoke.
"Bilbo had a coat of mithril-rings, given to him by Thorin." Gandalf told
them. "I wonder what became of it? It is probably gathering dust in Michel
Delving Mathom-house."
"A corselet of Moria silver!" Gimli exclaimed, "That was a kingly gift."
"I never told Bilbo of it's worth. It is probably worth more than the Shire
and everything in it." Gandalf explained to the hobbits. He stopped, the
drums began once more, resounding from the depths, yet somehow closer this
time.
"Move now." Gandalf ordered, leading them into a chamber off what Gimli had
called the Main Hall.
Once they were all inside Aragorn and Legolas began trying to bar the old
wooden door. Boromir hurried over to help.
After the task was accomplished, they stared around the room.
A strange sense of foreboding filled Arwen. In the center of the room stood
a great sarcophagus, carved from the same glittering black stone as the
Main Hall had been hewn. It was polished to a smooth finish, gentle on the
fingers, cool to the touch.
Gandalf and Gimli approached it, reading the Dwarf runes. "Here lies Balin,
son of Fundin. Lord of Moria."
On top of the sarcophagus lay two things that should not have been there.
The first was a book, partially charred and damaged by holes and tears, the
second was a ceremonial ax, inlaid with all the precious treasures Moria
had to offer.
Out of respect for Gimli and his kinsman, who had been a guest at Rivendell
several times, Arwen touched her two fingers to her lips and then to her
forehead, making the gesture three times.
Silently she said a prayer for Dain and the other Dwarves who had fallen,
invoking protection against the Evil Eye at the same time.
As she prayed Gandalf opened the book, and in a steady voice began to read
the last entry. "We cannot get out. They have taken the bridge and the
second hall. We cannot get out. The end comes. Drums, drums in the deep...
We cannot get out. They are coming..."
As he finished speaking the drums began again, not talking drums, but a
deep, steady war drum.
Boom.
"Why did I delay?" Gandalf cursed.
Doom. Doom.
Arwen unsheathed Shalat, immediately noticing the blue glow of the blade.
"Orcs." She cried, as Gandalf and Frodo unsheathed Glamdring and Sting.
Doom. Doom.
"We must wedge the doors." Aragorn told them, rushing over to do just that.
Arwen sheathed Shalat and rushed over to help him, followed by Gimli,
Legolas, Boromir and Gandalf.
"Arwen, go. Stay with the hobbits." Aragorn ordered.
She turned from her task, sliding her longbow over her head and nocking an
arrow. Standing in front of the hobbits she trained her aim on the doors.
Already the old wood was fragmenting and shattering under the Orc's attack.
As a scaly, slimy hand pushed through. Arwen took aim and fired upon it,
just inches away from Aragorn's throat. With a cry the hand was withdraw,
but the Orcs renewed their frenzied attack.
Finally they gave the door away, stepping back quickly into the room to set
up a perimeter.
Taking advantage of the old stairway Arwen had herded the hobbits up, in
the hope of keeping them safe from danger. She stood at the top of the
stairs, arrow at the ready.
As the Orcs filtered into the room Arwen and Legolas downstairs loosed
arrows against them, killing several Orcs, which were then trampled .
Aragorn, Boromir and Gandalf made great use of their swords, demonstrating
the finesse shown only by experienced swordsmen.
Gimli, not to be outdone had seized up Dain's ax and began hacking at the
Orcs, cleaving them apart.
Behind her the hobbits fidgeted, wanting to take part in the battle.
Suddenly Frodo shouted, "The Shire!" and dashed down the stairs, followed
by his friends and kinsmen, all cheering the same cry. Arwen paused a
second to look down at them, a wave of hope surged through her. They would
get out of here. She was sure of it. She only had to find an opening in the
battle for them to make their escape.
Then to her shock a cave troll entered the chamber waving it's club about
wildly.
It hit more Orcs than anything else, with Gimli and Legolas both ducking
under the club strokes.
Nocking two arrows at once, Arwen fired them simultaneously at the troll.
As they made contact the creature wailed wildly, in great pain, for Arwen
had aimed for the most sensitive areas the cave troll had, its ears and
neck.
Across the room Legolas fired upon the creature as well, trying to cripple
it before it managed to kill one of their own. Legolas managed to shoot the
troll in it's eye, blinding it.
Now blind, mad with pain and fear the creature lashed out taking up a heavy
iron spear and thrusting it directly at Frodo. The spear caught him on his
right side, slamming him against the back wall with the force of the blow.
Sliding her bow over her head she drew Shalat and darted down the stairs,
slicing her way to where Frodo lay.
Aragorn fought his way over as well, shielding them both. Hurriedly she
sheathed Shalat and grabbed Frodo.
"This way!" Aragorn called, starting for the door. The others made their
way over and the Company began to flee from the raging Orcs.
In Arwen's arms Frodo moved. "I am all right." He told her, "I can walk,
put me down."
Startled she put Frodo down, unsheathing her sword, and dragging Frodo
along behind her. Aragorn turned his head when he heard Frodo speak, but
said nothing.
Finally they reached a gate and a bridge.
"Run you fools!" Gandalf shouted at them, "Take the paths down and to the
right."
Obeying his orders the others fled.
In her heart Arwen knew what was now chasing them. A creature of the
darkness. A Balrog.
Pulling Sam and Frodo with her, so that they could keep up, she followed
Aragorn closely, not wanting to get lost in the tunnels.
In the distance the drums beats came again, this time faster, more urgent.
Doom. Doom.
Finally Gandalf caught up with them. The drums beats, despite following
them had grown muffled and far away.
Out of breath, energy almost spent they stopped to rest a moment.
Arwen immediately went to tend to Frodo. "Are you all right?"
"I am bruised and sore." He told them, "But I will live."
"I thought you were dead." Aragorn told him.
"These hobbits must be made of tougher stuff than they look." Boromir
praised.
From a pouch on her belt Arwen produced a small clay jar full of round
yellow spheres. "Take one, everyone. We'll need more than just energy to
get out of here."
A smile split Sam's grim expression. "They taste like honey."
"They are orlas. One is enough to give enough strength to a grown elf for a
whole days travel. We must get out of Moria. This placed is cursed." Arwen
told them.
Part 19.
As they began walking again, much faster than before, the drums sounded
once more, the beats resounding closer and closer.
Startled Gandalf broke into a run. The others followed him closely.
Doom. Doom.
The drum beats rolled on, steadily coming closer.
Behind them a small army of Orcs swarmed.
Yanking her bow over her head Arwen turned to fire upon them, as did
Legolas. Unprepared for what Arwen had already known had come, Legolas
shouted in fear and dropped his arrow. Arwen loosed hers and darted to
Legolas' side to drag him along with her. Gimli stood stock-still as well,
his ax raised. "Durin's Bane." He murmured, sounding amazed at the sight in
front of him. Shaking her head as she ran, Arwen grabbed him with her bow
hand forcing him to run.
Gandalf lead them to a narrow bridge. "You must get across. Swords are no
use here. This is a fight of magic now."
Fearlessly Boromir grabbed Merry, the nearest hobbit to him, and darted
across the narrow bridge.
"Go Gimli." Arwen urged, "Take Pippin with you."
Gimli obeyed her, carrying Pippin like a sack of potatoes.
The Orcs on the opposite wall began to aim better. "Legolas, see if you can
bring some of them down." Aragorn ordered, "Come across with us. Arwen and
I will take Sam and Frodo."
Seizing Sam up Arwen held him in one arm, drawing Shalat with her other.
Using the sword as she ran she was able to deflect any stray arrows coming
their way. Following her lead Aragorn did the same, with Frodo in one arm,
watching Gandalf over Aragorn's shoulder, and Anduril in the other. Legolas
brought up their rear, firing arrows into the darkness, making the Orcs cry
out in pain, and fall from their hiding places into the depths of Moria.
At the other side of the bridge Gimli, Boromir and the two hobbits waited
for them.
As the reached safety Arwen turned and watched Gandalf. Along with her the
others watched as Gandalf faced the creature. Legolas trembled slightly
beside her.
They watched as Gandalf severed the causeway, and watched still as the
Balrog's whip of flame snapped up to drag Gandalf into the abyss of Moria.
All heard his last command. "Fly, you fools!"
With a heavy heart Arwen followed Aragorn through the twists and turns of
Moria, and finally out into the bright sunshine.
They threw themselves onto the warm rocks and lay there for several
moments. Arwen felt tears begin to trickle down her cheeks. Gandalf had
long been a friend of hers and her father's. Silently she tried to comfort
Frodo, who was lost in his grief.
After several more minutes Aragorn insisted on moving. Arwen supported his
decision, helping Frodo and Sam to their feet. The Company, now minus one
marched on, silenced by grief, but at the same time, bound by it.