Chapter 3: The Fellowship

Frodo had just recovered from his injury, and everyone needed for the council was already present. Lord Elrond had decided to hold the council in the morning. That night a small feast was celebrated.

Gandalf stepped out into the garden for a walk and a pipe. Something was amiss in Rivendell, it was not evil and he was sure of that. It was something dark yet familiar. Smiling, he then took a puff from his pipe.

' How long are you going to stare at me shadow? ' questioned a grinning Gandalf

' As long as you keep on smoking your pipe Mithrandir! ' came a reply

' That would be a while shadow for I intend to take my time and savor this one ' answered Gandalf

Appearing before Gandalf, Lenae crossed her arms and stared.

' Oio naa elealla alasse Lenae ' (ever is thy sight a joy Lenae) complimented gandalf

' Do you mock me Istari? ' she questioned

Gandalf just smiled. ' She sure has not changed. But what's her purpose for being here? ' he thought.

' My purpose for being here is mine and mine alone Mithrandir ' said Lenae.

Even though chill ran through his body every time she spoke, Gandalf was not fazed by it. He was well used to it by now.

' Still reading minds, I see ' said Gandalf ' It seems to be getting late and an old man like me needs rest. See you tomorrow at the council my Aranthi (white 5 petal flower that smells like honey) ' he then waved goodbye and left.

Lenae was left there standing with a frown and looks that could kill. She always hated that name. Why would he associate her with a flower? She was a warrior not a maiden. Looking up the moon, she then disappeared. She still had to check on Legolas, then the borders once again for any signs of evil.

Taking another puff from his pipe, Gandalf watched Lenae as she disappeared. He then grinned. ' New things are in store for you my Aranthi. And it seems that this journey will be more exciting than ever.' He then left to get his rest, the council was set for early morning.

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It was a beautiful morning, but the people at the council did not seem to notice it. Feeling the same kind of darkness the night before, Gandalf knew that Lenae was present. It seems that no one else felt the presence of the shadow, very strong magic was used to do this. Looking around he tried to find who she was protecting. ' Could it be Aragorn? Or Frodo? Someone else maybe? Or better yet himself? ' He thought. Taking a deep breath he told himself not to ponder about it, he will know in time.

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The council was over, 9 people, the fellowship, was to bring the One ring to Mordor for it to be destroyed. But Gandalf knew that they had 1 more unseen member making it to 10: 4 hobbits, 2 humans, 1 dwarf, 1 elf, 1 wizard and 1 shadow. Gandalf felt both relieved and worried that she would be accompanying them, He knew that she would make sure that all of them are safe but the mere presence of her meant that grave perils awaits them.

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The fellowship had a say left before they were to leave Imladris. The hobbits spent it eating and having fun. Aragorn and Boromir were making sure their supplies were ready. Gimli was making sure that all weapons were of top condition. Legolas was presently in the archery field practicing.

Lenae watched as he shot another bull's eye. She too had a bow in hand, finding her mark she let her arrow fly. Dead center, she never missed. Then, it was another bull's eye for Legolas. It looks like she would not have a hard job this time. The young prince is an excellent marksman, she is sure that whatever happens she can not only defend himself but others too.

Side by side the two practiced, but only one knew of the others presence.

' Is there something amusing Gandalf? ' asked Elrond as he tried to see what gandalf was looking at from the window

Facing elrong, Gandalf replied. ' Nothing . . . just looking at the young prince practice. ' He then smiled 'Its true they say, that he is one of the best marksman there is for I never saw him miss a target.' Looking back out the window at Legolas, he then smiled again.

' It seems that the young prince has found his match and guardian ' mused gandalf. His eyes caught another faint shadow of a black arrow hitting its mark.

Turning away from the window, Gandalf and Elrond began their discussion. Saruman was a traitor, he is now a threat. Great caution must be observed for he has a lot of spies. Many other things had to be discussed and had to be done for tomorrow the journey to Mordor begins . . .