1.1.1.1.1 Chapter Three
Later that evening, Leannan lay in bed thinking about the forthcoming day. At dinner, she had been told that the council would be held tomorrow morning.
The breeze blew in through the open terrace, and she pulled the coverlet up over her shoulders and shivered. The silence was peaceful, but her mind was full of worrisome thoughts about the morning. She felt her stomach flutter. Ah, why was she so nervous? It was merely a secret council, nothing to worry about.
She cringed. " Oh yes, nothing to worry about, Leannan! Just a group of highly important people at a covert and extremely important council" she mocked herself aloud.
Aragorn would be there, she assured herself, but that didn't help for it reminded her of his instructions not to speak. Would she be able to sit through the entire council without opening her mouth? Impossible, especially for Leannan.
Deep down, Leannan was afraid. Afraid of what the results of the council would be. She wanted peace; she wanted to get away from The Ring and the danger it threatened. She had enough anguish living in her heart, and The Ring just threatened her with more. She wanted to escape, to run away. She wanted to live the unfettered life she had lived before with Aragorn, just the two of them and their adventures.
And most of all, she wanted what she lost years ago. She wanted to erase the pain and suffering of her past and start anew.
Tears fell from her cheeks as she thought of what she had thrown away those many years ago. Why had she done it? she wondered. Why had she forsaken the beautiful treasure she had possessed, and replaced it with loneliness and woe?
Every day she lived with the regret of what she had done. Powerless to correct the mistake she'd made. The constant conviction that she'd ruined the life of another. Another that she'd loved so dearly.
Leannan wept silently as she lay in her bed and let her emotions take over. She turned her face from the open terrace where she gazed and fell into a fitful sleep of tortured dreams.
In the shadows, Legolas climbed down the terrace of Leannan and fled into the dark night. Her silent tears had disturbed him greatly. What was she crying about? he wondered.
~~~~~~~
The majestic elf made his way to the council in long strides. Sometimes he'd take a moment to stop and breathe in the fresh air or study his surroundings, but he did not dally long because he did not wish to arrive late. He felt his insides flutter with anticipation. He was anxious to learn what the council would foretell but afraid of revealing himself to Leannan. Somehow, though, he felt a peace deep within. Somehow, he knew that things would work out; he felt confident.
He heard the distant ding of the bell sounding the Council of Elrond, and he quickened his steps.
Legolas ascended up a somewhat narrow staircase that wound up along the side of a building. He then entered into an open hallway with large pillars and an alcove roof with vines growing upon it that climbed down the grand pillars. In the distance, he could see where the council was gathering. While he walked down the hallway, he was relieved beyond words to see that he had arrived before Leannan.
Taking a deep breath he stepped up about two steps and then entered the circular scaffold. There was a sacred atmosphere with noble seats outlining the round platform like structure and the stone stand in the center, looking like an altar. At the front of the circle stood Elrond, proud and tall, reflecting all wisdom and grandeur.
The light of the clear autumn morning was now glowing in the valley, and the noise of the bubbling rivers echoed upon the silence.
The faces in the chairs were solemn and dignified as Legolas silently took his seat upon a bench next to the other elves. He exchanged a glance with Glorfindel who sat two seats from his left while he silently checked everyone that was in attendance. On his right sat Erestor, the head counselor of Elrond's household, and with him sat Galdor, an elf from the Grey Havens who had come on an errand from Cirdan the Shipwright.
Two dwarves, Gloin and his son Gimli, entered and settled into their seats with raucous grunts. Boromir from the South, dressed richly in a cloak lined with fur and silver collar in which a single white stone was set, was close behind the dwarves and with a somewhat nervous glance at Elrond, he took a seat as well, holding his garnished horn upon his knees.
Legolas felt his chest tighten as he heard the faint laughter of Leannan in the distance. On the outside, he looked completely calm and serene, but a battle was raging inside of him as he awaited the approach of the lady and Strider.
And after what seemed like hours, she finally ascended the two steps, following behind Aragorn respectfully.
Aragorn entered first, and his fatherly gaze locked with Legolas'. Leannan stood by his side, and Legolas realized that she had not noticed him yet. He took the opportunity to observe her.
She was dressed in her greyish blue tunic and pants that were trimmed with silver and gold thread and dark brown boots covering up to just below her knees. She wore a thick brown belt that bore her two elvish knives and embellished sword, which she treasured because it had been a gift from Gandalf. Legolas also knew that she secretly kept a dagger inside her left boot, which he found very amusing for some reason. Her thick, golden brown hair was braided and wrapped around her head like a crown, giving her a royal appearance. She also wore a chain coronet with a ruby stone hanging onto her forehead. Legolas' heart ached as he watched her stand dutifully next to Aragorn, all poise and elegance.
Legolas then felt his heart sink as he watched Strider lead Leannan to a seat directly across from him. Now they'd be across from each other the entire council and would have to stare into each other's sorrowful eyes. Legolas inwardly groaned at the unappealing thought.
As soon as she settled into her seat, her glorious eyes met his, and she covered her mouth to keep from gasping aloud. Her eyes filled with painful emotions as she glared at him, and Legolas felt his heart break at her shocked expression. The whole world felt like it was spinning as Legolas gazed upon the beauty sitting across from him. His heart wrenched with pain beyond words, as he thought of the precious beloved that he had lost those years ago. Leannan just sat still like a stone, and Legolas could tell she was fighting. The distress on her face was evident as she silently gained her composure. Aragorn had placed a gentle hand on her arm, and his expression was that of hurt as well. Not one could guess the torment going on in the hearts of three persons present at the council.
He felt his chest surge with pride as he watched Leannan blink away her mournful expression and calmly meet his eyes. She politely nodded in his direction and then returned her gaze to Aragorn to assure him that she was all right.
He let out a long silent breath and felt himself relax.
Then finally, the grand voice of Gandalf boomed as he marched into the room with the sound of the "click click" of his staff on the stone floor.
" Here, my friends, is the hobbit, Frodo son of Drogo. Few have ever come hither through greater peril or on an errand more urgent." he announced loudly.
While introductions were made, Legolas silently studied Frodo, who stood tensely next to Bilbo Baggins. The two hobbits looked so small while standing next to Gandalf! After the brief introductions were finished, Gandalf and the hobbits took their seats in the council and things began.
~~~~~~~
There was much already known by members seated in the council and not all had to be discussed. Leannan had heard many rumors as well; but Gloin's tale was new to her. Leannan was all ears, listening intently, as Gloin stood before the group and spoke in his gruff voice.
She glanced over at Frodo who turned his attentive gaze away from the dwarf and met her eyes. She smiled warmly at him and felt like chuckling when his face turned a shade pink.
Leannan felt her heart leap a bit when she looked across at Legolas. He did not meet her gaze, and Leannan was relieved. The calmness in his eyes maddened her. It had not taken her long to figure out that he knew she'd be here. That rogue! He had known all along that she was in Rivendell. She knew he regretted it, it was in his eyes. Ah, his eyes! So full of wisdom and sapience, she could get lost in them. They were eyes that had seen so many things in this world, eyes that had lived through many ages. She had seen the sorrow in his gaze, a look she'd seen before, a look that had broken her heart.
" And so I have been sent at last by Dain to warn Bilbo that he is sought by the Enemy, and to learn, if may be, why he desires this ring, this least of rings. Also we crave the advice of Elrond. For the Shadow grows and draws nearer." Said Gloin, his words jerking Leannan back to the present.
So Sauron had sent a messenger to Dain, who was still King under the mountain and was now past his two hundred and fiftieth year. Leannan could not imagine what it would be like to live so old. It was even more amazing with the immortal elves.
" You have done well to come," said Elrond. " You will hear today all that you need in order to understand the purposes of the Enemy. There is nothing that you can do, other than to resist, with hope or without it. But you do not stand-alone. You will learn that your trouble is but part of the trouble of the entire western world. The Ring! What shall we do with the Ring, the least of rings, the trinket that Sauron fancies? That is the doom we must deem."
Leannan leaned forward in her seat. Now the council was getting very interesting. She wanted to learn all she could of Sauron and this "least of rings" he desired so.
She listened, captivated, as Elrond continued.
" That is the purpose for which you are called here... Called, I say, though I have not called you to me, strangers from distant lands. You have come and here met, in this very nick of time, by chance, as it may seem. Yet it is not so. Believe rather that it is so ordered that we, who sit here, and none others, must now find counsel for the peril of the world."
Not here by chance? Leannan did not like the sound of that. She did not like the idea that she actually had a purpose in this council. She was here merely to learn!
And learn she did, as Elrond began the Tale of Ring in his clear and rich voice.
He spoke of Sauron and of the forging of the Rings of Power in the Second Age. Some in the council knew of bits and pieces of this tale, and some had never heard. But the entire tale, no one knew. The entire council sat in utter awe as they listened.
Elrond told of the Elven-smiths of Eregion and their friendship with Moria. How Sauron ensnared them by their eagerness to learn. He spoke of Sauron's betrayal and how he secretly forged the One Ring in the Mountain of Fire. And then a war broke out when Celebrimbor became aware of Sauron's betrayal, and he hid the three rings, which he had made. And in result of the dark war, the gate of Moria was shut.
It was a dark tale, and Leannan felt a deep sadness come over her heart as Elrond spoke, even as the sun shined high in the sky and the morning began to pass.
Elrond also spoke of very old history that Leannan barely knew. Some she recognized from her schooling with the elves, but some were quite unknown. She found herself completely captivated with the amazing history of Numenor's glory and fall, and the return of Men to Middle-Earth out of the depths of the sea.
Suddenly, in the middle of Elrond's tale, Frodo spoke aloud for the first time.
" You remember?" He began to stammer when Elrond's turned to him. " I thought...I thought that the fall of Gil-galad was a long age ago."
" So it was indeed," answered Elrond gravely. " But my memory reaches back even to the Elder Days. Earendil was my sire, who was born in Gondolin before its fall; and my mother was Elwing, daughter of Dior, son of Luthien of Doriath. I have seen three ages in the West of the world, and many defeats, and many fruitless victories."
Leannan's eyes become huge at Elrond's words. Amazing! She thought, in absolute awe. Leannan's respect for Elrond became ever greater after she learned this.
And then Elrond went on to tell a part of the tale that Leannan had heard from Aragorn. It was the tale of Isildur, and how he cut the ring from the hand of Sauron with the sword of his father, claiming the ring as his own.
At this the stranger, Boromir, broke in, causing Leannan to jump a bit in her seat. " So that is what became of the Ring!" he cried. " If ever such a tale was told in the South, it has long been forgotten. I have heard of the Great Ring of him that we do not name; but we believed that it perished from the world in the ruin of his first realm. Isildur took it! That is news indeed!"
" Alas! Yes," said Elrond. " Isildur took it, as should not have been. It should have been cast then into Orodruin's fire whence it was made. But Isildur did not listen to our counsel."
Leannan knew the rest of this tale. After Isildur took the Ring, he was betrayed by it to his death, and the Ring was lost but not destroyed.
Elrond went on to tell of the happenings after the war, and Leannan began to grow weary. That was, until Boromir stood up, tall and proud, before the council.
He spoke of Gondor, the land where he came, and of its peril. He told that smoke arises once more from the Orodruin that is also called Mount Doom, and that there was sudden war upon them from Mordor. They were outnumbered, because Mordor had allied itself with the Easterlings and the cruel Haradrim.
Leannan felt a dark shudder up her spine when he said, "But it was not by numbers that we were defeated. A power was there that we have not felt before."
He turned to face Elrond and said, " I have not journeyed so long seeking allies in war, but the wise counsel of Elrond."
And then he told of a dream he and his brother had in which these words were spoken:
Seek for the Sword that was broken;
In Imladris it dwells;
There shall be counsels taken
Stronger than Morgul-spells.
There shall be shown a token
That Doom is near at hand,
For Isildur's Bane shall waken,
And the halfling forth shall stand.
Leannan felt Aragorn stir at her side and then watched him stand after Boromir had spoken. Her gaze followed the man that had raised her and watched him stand proudly in front of Boromir.
" And here in the house of Elrond more shall be made clear to you," Said Aragorn, placing a sword upon the table in the center of the circle. Leannan leaned out of her seat and squinted at the sword. The blade was in two pieces! " Here is the Sword that was broken!" he announced to them all.
Boromir glared at Aragorn in both amazement and curiosity. " Who are you, and what have you to do with Minas Tirith?" he asked, studying the Ranger closely.
Legolas spoke up now and stood as well. " He is Aragorn son of Arathorn! And he is a descendent of Isildur, son of Elendil of Minas Ithil."
At this Frodo sprung to his feet and cried in bewilderment, " Then it belongs to you, and not to me at all!"
" It belongs to neither of us, " said Aragorn. " But you are appointed to be keeper of it for now."
Leannan watched Frodo sadly as he struggled to hide the bitter disappointment. The poor hobbit! To hold such a burden!
His face and voice grave, Gandalf looked to Frodo. " Bring out the Ring, Frodo."
The room became deathly silent, and Legolas, Boromir, and Aragorn stood like frozen stones. Leannan felt her breath leave her as Frodo, looking so afraid, held the ring up before the council with a shaking hand.
" Behold, Isildur's Bane!" announced Elrond.
Boromir and Aragorn began to speak now, and Legolas silently took his seat. Leannan noticed much doubt in the eyes of Boromir as he and Aragorn discussed the sword of Elendil. This disturbed Leannan some, and she shifted uncomfortably in her seat as the dispute wore on.
Then, there was a sudden burst of song interrupting the discussion and Bilbo, somewhat annoyed, jumped up and sang:
All that is gold does not glitter,
Not all those who wander are lost;
The old that is strong does not wither,
Deep roots are not reached by the frost.
From the ashes a fire shall be woken,
A light from the shadows shall spring;
Renewed shall be blade that was broken:
The crownless again shall be king.
With snort and a couple short words, Bilbo returned to his seat. Leannan covered her mouth to hide her smile of amusement at the song he had sung with such irritation. She watched him lean over to Frodo and whisper proudly, " I made it up myself!"
Aragorn smiled at the hobbit and turned back to Boromir. They exchanged some more, somewhat heated, words, and Leannan began to drift off again, not paying much attention. Her ears perked up though, and her heart began to beat faster when she heard someone refer to her.
Boromir was glaring at her with suspicion. " And who is this woman that accompanies you?" he asked Aragorn. " I am not certain if I agree with the concept of a woman in the presence of this noble council!"
Aragorn raised his brows, and Leannan turned stark red. She remembered Aragorn's orders to keep silent and bit her tongue.
" This, most noble Boromir, is my traveling companion, Leannan."
" The great heir of Isildur travels with a woman?" Boromir scoffed. " I find it amusing that you would choose such an incompetent creature to accompany you."
He gave a bow in Leannan's direction. " No offense, madam."
Leannan gave him a cool nod and tried to keep the irritation from showing.
Gandalf gave a chuckle and said, " This woman, whom Boromir so hastily calls weak, has been trained in the arts of combat and survival under the strict authority of Aragorn since she was but a child." His dark eyes glinted with amusement. " And I assure you, Boromir, that there is no need to worry about her presence in this council."
Boromir, evidently stunned, gave another bow in Leannan's direction, and the matter was dropped.
The audacity of that man! Leannan was greatly disturbed at his doubtful attitude towards not only her, but Aragorn as well. She saw the distaste in his eyes, and her blood boiled. He did not think her worthy enough to be apart of this council! Of course it was like a man to assume a woman incapable and inefficient. Leannan fought the urge to "humph" in her seat, and instead slouched with folded arms, glaring at Boromir with dislike.
~~~~~~~
Legolas could read the rankled expression on Leannan face and found it amusing. He knew she was fuming right now at Boromir's accusation. Legolas had fought the urge himself to oppose. He knew very well that Leannan was very skilled and most definitely worthy of attending this council. She had the fortune of being trained by Aragorn and the elves. He himself had even had the windfall of training Leannan in some arts. The memory brought a deep ache to his heart. Their times together had been such treasures, and he remembered them with the deepest regard. They had been special times; times where they had bonded and grown to know one another. She had been so eager to learn from him, and he had found so much joy in teaching her.
One memory stuck in his mind and he couldn't help bringing it up at this moment in time...
" No, Leannan, you are holding the knife wrong." Legolas told the young woman from his perch on the grassy ground. He leaned against a tree and watched Leannan intently as she practiced her knife tossing. He knew it was her passion, her talent, but she still had a ways to go. But she loved learning, and he felt very fortunate to have such an obedient scholar.
He smiled lightly as she struggled to get her grip right on the handle of the embellished dagger.
" Legolas..." She looked at him with an exasperated look on her fair face. " I cannot get this right. Come instruct me." She said with a half order, half pout.
Legolas lifted himself gracefully from the ground. She looked rather cute, he thought. She had thrown the dagger onto the ground and stood with her small hands in fists at her sides. Her irked look was charming, and it would have fit the scene perfectly if she had stomped her foot. But she did not; she just stood and waited for Legolas to enlighten her.
" Like this, pen tithen." Legolas moved her hands about the knife with his own until they were in the right position. " Remember what I taught you about aiming."
He stepped back and told her to give it a try. He watched proudly as she aimed exactly as he had taught her and threw the knife gracefully. Right on target. She was catching on. " Do it again." Came his order.
The next time she handled the dagger correctly. " Well done, Leannan. You may rest now."
They moved away from the range, and Leannan dropped on the ground to lean against the tree. She sighed contentedly as a breeze blew her locks and looked up at the sky. Legolas dropped onto the ground next to her and leaned against the other side of the tree.
" Do you ever look at the sky, Legolas?" She asked randomly and Legolas studied the dreamy look on her face as she gazed up at the soft blue sky and puffy white clouds.
" It is always there, I see it many times." He replied.
She smiled. " But do you ever just look, for the enjoyment of it?"
Legolas watched her like a hawk and wondered why she asked such questions. " I do not suppose I do, pen tithen."
She shifted and looked away from the sky. " Oh but it is very pleasant to do. The sky is so beautiful. Especially during the daytime when it is full of white clouds."
She gazed back up again, and they were both silent. The breeze sweeping through the forest was refreshing, and the sound of the river was distant and melodious.
" Since you do not look at the sky for enjoyment then I do not suppose you ever try to guess what the clouds are shaped like."
Legolas frowned and glanced up at the sky that Leannan so intently studied. "They have no specific shape." He told her.
She smiled softly. " But do you ever try to guess what they closest resemble? Look at that cloud, " She pointed and Legolas looked up. " Look at it very closely and tell me what it most reminds you of."
Legolas, with his keen eyesight, considered persistently the cloud that Leannan had pointed out to him. He was very silent and in deep concentration. Leannan tried not to laugh at the serious look on his fair face. She loved how his forehead creased when he was in thought and how the breeze swept his flaxen hair.
Finally he spoke. " It looks like a castle. Yes, a castle in the sky." He looked at her, and his face brightened. " This, cloud watching you do, pen tithen, is very interesting. I shall have to try it more often so I can be better at it."
He and Leannan shared a warm smile, and they had spent the rest of the day sprawled on the grass gazing up at the sky watching the passing clouds…
It had been a beautiful day, one that Legolas will always remember. The way the sun had shined down on Leannan's golden brown hair and the beautiful look on her face as she dreamed. Years later, he still looked up at the sky and remembered his times with Leannan. She had taught him the beauty of dreaming, and he had learned to treasure each and every one.
Legolas pulled himself back to the present and scolded himself for getting so lost in thought. No doubt, the council was curious as to why he had that zoned look on his face and his brow was creased. And indeed, when he glanced around at everyone, he received some stares from several of the members, but thankfully no one commented. The meeting had worn on, and he was terribly disappointed to find that he had missed very much of it.
Gandalf was talking now, telling his tale. Legolas felt his stomach lurch when he realized he was talking about Gollum. He swallowed the lump in his throat as Gandalf said, "Still I for one am glad that he is safely kept by the watchful Elves of Mirkwood. His malice is great and gives him a strength hardly to be believed in one so lean and withered. He could work much mischief still, if he were free. And I do not doubt that he was allowed to leave Mordor on some evil errand."
Legolas stood abruptly, causing the council to stir, and Gandalf to turn his penetrating gaze to the elegant elf.
" Alas! Alas!" Legolas cried with an aggrieved look upon his fair and noble face. " The news that I was sent to bring must now be told. The report is not good, but only here have I learned how evil they may seem to this company. Smeagol, who is now called Gollum, has escaped."
Aragorn bellowed, " Escaped? That is ill tidings indeed." He lifted his hand and ran it through his raven colored hair. " How came the folk of Thranduil to fail in their trust?"
Legolas felt very sheepish, but did not show it in his actions or speech. " I assure you it was not through lack of watchfulness, but perhaps through over-kindliness. And we fear that the prisoner had aid from others, and that more is known of our doings than we could wish. We guarded this creature day and night, at Gandalf's bidding, much though we wearied of the task. But Gandalf bade us hope still for his cure, and we had not the heart to keep him ever in dungeons under the earth, where he would fall back into his old black thoughts."
Gloin spoke, and Legolas listened but did not comment on the dwarf's ruthless remarks. Gandalf was quick to silence him though, and Gloin offered a bow to Legolas, who continued with his news.
Legolas told them that they had allowed Gollum to climb into his favorite tree in the woods, and they set a guard at the foot of the trunk. But one day, the creature refused to come down, and the guard did not want to climb up after him. So they waited by the tree through the night. And on that very night of the summer, dark and starless, Orcs attacked without notice. The elves fought them off as the orcs came from over the mountains, unfamiliar to the woods. It was understood that the attack was planned for the rescue of Gollum and that the creature knew of it prior. The elves of Mirkwood were unable to recapture Gollum and trailed him for many miles, but they failed.
Legolas returned to his seat after giving his news and felt a weight of downfall as Gandalf and the others spoke solemnly. He caught Leannan's look, and she managed a reassuring smile.
~~~~~~~
Most of the tales had been told now and Leannan had learned a great deal. She felt very honored to be included in such significant, and secretive, information. She felt as if a light had been turned on, and she could see now. She no longer knew only bits and pieces of the happenings.
The last thing to discuss now was what to do with the Ring? The question had been weighing on her for quite some time now and she was anxious to know. Leannan knew that the Ring must be destroyed in the fires of Mount Doom, but how? she wondered.
She smiled when Bilbo spoke up and assumed that it was his job to finish, being that he had started the whole affair. But Gandalf informed him that it was not his duty to finish it and advised him to stay in Rivendell and finish his book.
" I have never known you to give such pleasant advice before." Bilbo told Gandalf with a laugh. " But tell me, what do you mean by they?"
" The messengers who are sent with the Ring." came the reply.
" Exactly! And who are they to be? Can't you think of some names now? Or put it off till after dinner?"
Silence followed and no one spoke. Leannan cast a nervous glance about the room and noticed Frodo staring intently at the Ring. She could not read the look on his face but it made her fearful. It was almost as if he was in a trace. Leannan quickly looked down into her lap and fought her fears.
And then, in the dreadful silence of the room, Frodo stood before the council. Leannan felt her heart sink as the brave hobbit spoke.
" I will take it! I will take the Ring to Mordor." He said, apprehensively and then paused before saying, " Though I do not know the way."
Gandalf stood, towering over the admirable hobbit, and laid his hand upon Frodo's shoulder. " I will help you bear this burden, Frodo Baggins. As long as it is yours to bear."
The room seemed to come alive at that moment! All heads shot up to stare at the trembling hobbit and the powerful wizard who stood by his side.
Leannan let out a small gasp when Aragorn rose to his feet and knelt before Frodo, sword in hand. Her hand came to her mouth and she listened with dread in her heart as Aragorn said, "If by my life or death, if I can protect you, I will. You have my sword."
Leannan felt like crying out and bitter tears stung in her eyes. How could Aragorn do this?
" And you have my bow." Leannan watched Legolas stand as well and pledge his own protection to the hobbit.
Gimli raised his axe. " And you have my axe!" He said gruffly.
Boromir moved towards the forming company and said to Frodo, "You carry the fate of us all little one. If this is indeed the will of the council, then Gondor will see it done. "
Leannan felt an aching loneliness creep into her heart, and she stammered but no words left her mouth. She was left alone in her seat. Alone! Aragorn had left her and pledged his allegiance to the hobbit. The hobbit. Leannan looked at Frodo who stood proudly and the relief on his face was so evident. This was the hobbit that she had sung to every night at the campfire, the hobbit that she had visited on his sickbed. And now he carried this dark burden, how alone he must have feel! Just as Leannan felt now sitting in her seat and watching her companion leave her. Ah what to do?!
And then, it was as if a bright light shined on her heart, and Leannan knew what she must do. This was her fate, her calling. She would follow her comrade, Aragorn, on his journey to destroy the evil Ring. She would pledge her allegiance to the gallant hobbit, Frodo.
Leannan lifted herself from the chair walked to the gathering company. She knelt before the hobbit and his face was that of complete surprise. A silence fell upon the group.
" Hobbit, I have not much to offer you." She took his hand in her own and continued. " Nothing but my allegiance and willingness to protect you no matter where the road may lead us."
Frodo blinked a couple times and then broke into a smile. Leannan stood and faced Aragorn. " And, my faithful friend, you have taught me everything I know. I owe you everything; you have given me the life I live now. And I will follow you to the ends of this earth."
Aragorn stared with deep emotion in his dark eyes. He was so proud of her! Before he could say anything, there was a rustle in the bushes and out jumped none other but Samwise Gamgee!
" Here! Mr. Frodo is not going anywhere without me!" he cried.
Leannan broke into a chuckle at the determined hobbit. He was so faithful to his master, Frodo!
"No, indeed, it is hardly possible to separate you from him, even when he is summoned to a secret council, and you are not." Elrond said, eyeing Sam closely.
Frodo was grinning at his friend and many chuckles flowed from the crowd. Just then, there was another rustle behind one of the pillars and out jumped Frodo's two other loyal companions!
"Oi! We're coming too! You'd have to send us home tied up in a sack to stop us." Cried Merry.
They came to stand dutifully at Frodo's side, and Pippin said with his hands on his hips, "Anyway, you need people of intelligence on this sort of mission… quest… thing."
Merry leaned near Pippin and whispered loud enough for everyone to hear, "Well, that rules you out, Pip."
Pippin gave Merry a face and then turned to listen to Elrond announce, "Ten companions. So be it! You shall be the fellowship of the ring."
Leannan felt her chest swell with pride. She had done the right thing; she knew it. And the peace she felt was clear.
Pippin clapped his hands and searched the faces of the council. " Great! So where are we going?"
~~~~~~~
Later that evening, Leannan lay in bed thinking about the forthcoming day. At dinner, she had been told that the council would be held tomorrow morning.
The breeze blew in through the open terrace, and she pulled the coverlet up over her shoulders and shivered. The silence was peaceful, but her mind was full of worrisome thoughts about the morning. She felt her stomach flutter. Ah, why was she so nervous? It was merely a secret council, nothing to worry about.
She cringed. " Oh yes, nothing to worry about, Leannan! Just a group of highly important people at a covert and extremely important council" she mocked herself aloud.
Aragorn would be there, she assured herself, but that didn't help for it reminded her of his instructions not to speak. Would she be able to sit through the entire council without opening her mouth? Impossible, especially for Leannan.
Deep down, Leannan was afraid. Afraid of what the results of the council would be. She wanted peace; she wanted to get away from The Ring and the danger it threatened. She had enough anguish living in her heart, and The Ring just threatened her with more. She wanted to escape, to run away. She wanted to live the unfettered life she had lived before with Aragorn, just the two of them and their adventures.
And most of all, she wanted what she lost years ago. She wanted to erase the pain and suffering of her past and start anew.
Tears fell from her cheeks as she thought of what she had thrown away those many years ago. Why had she done it? she wondered. Why had she forsaken the beautiful treasure she had possessed, and replaced it with loneliness and woe?
Every day she lived with the regret of what she had done. Powerless to correct the mistake she'd made. The constant conviction that she'd ruined the life of another. Another that she'd loved so dearly.
Leannan wept silently as she lay in her bed and let her emotions take over. She turned her face from the open terrace where she gazed and fell into a fitful sleep of tortured dreams.
In the shadows, Legolas climbed down the terrace of Leannan and fled into the dark night. Her silent tears had disturbed him greatly. What was she crying about? he wondered.
~~~~~~~
The majestic elf made his way to the council in long strides. Sometimes he'd take a moment to stop and breathe in the fresh air or study his surroundings, but he did not dally long because he did not wish to arrive late. He felt his insides flutter with anticipation. He was anxious to learn what the council would foretell but afraid of revealing himself to Leannan. Somehow, though, he felt a peace deep within. Somehow, he knew that things would work out; he felt confident.
He heard the distant ding of the bell sounding the Council of Elrond, and he quickened his steps.
Legolas ascended up a somewhat narrow staircase that wound up along the side of a building. He then entered into an open hallway with large pillars and an alcove roof with vines growing upon it that climbed down the grand pillars. In the distance, he could see where the council was gathering. While he walked down the hallway, he was relieved beyond words to see that he had arrived before Leannan.
Taking a deep breath he stepped up about two steps and then entered the circular scaffold. There was a sacred atmosphere with noble seats outlining the round platform like structure and the stone stand in the center, looking like an altar. At the front of the circle stood Elrond, proud and tall, reflecting all wisdom and grandeur.
The light of the clear autumn morning was now glowing in the valley, and the noise of the bubbling rivers echoed upon the silence.
The faces in the chairs were solemn and dignified as Legolas silently took his seat upon a bench next to the other elves. He exchanged a glance with Glorfindel who sat two seats from his left while he silently checked everyone that was in attendance. On his right sat Erestor, the head counselor of Elrond's household, and with him sat Galdor, an elf from the Grey Havens who had come on an errand from Cirdan the Shipwright.
Two dwarves, Gloin and his son Gimli, entered and settled into their seats with raucous grunts. Boromir from the South, dressed richly in a cloak lined with fur and silver collar in which a single white stone was set, was close behind the dwarves and with a somewhat nervous glance at Elrond, he took a seat as well, holding his garnished horn upon his knees.
Legolas felt his chest tighten as he heard the faint laughter of Leannan in the distance. On the outside, he looked completely calm and serene, but a battle was raging inside of him as he awaited the approach of the lady and Strider.
And after what seemed like hours, she finally ascended the two steps, following behind Aragorn respectfully.
Aragorn entered first, and his fatherly gaze locked with Legolas'. Leannan stood by his side, and Legolas realized that she had not noticed him yet. He took the opportunity to observe her.
She was dressed in her greyish blue tunic and pants that were trimmed with silver and gold thread and dark brown boots covering up to just below her knees. She wore a thick brown belt that bore her two elvish knives and embellished sword, which she treasured because it had been a gift from Gandalf. Legolas also knew that she secretly kept a dagger inside her left boot, which he found very amusing for some reason. Her thick, golden brown hair was braided and wrapped around her head like a crown, giving her a royal appearance. She also wore a chain coronet with a ruby stone hanging onto her forehead. Legolas' heart ached as he watched her stand dutifully next to Aragorn, all poise and elegance.
Legolas then felt his heart sink as he watched Strider lead Leannan to a seat directly across from him. Now they'd be across from each other the entire council and would have to stare into each other's sorrowful eyes. Legolas inwardly groaned at the unappealing thought.
As soon as she settled into her seat, her glorious eyes met his, and she covered her mouth to keep from gasping aloud. Her eyes filled with painful emotions as she glared at him, and Legolas felt his heart break at her shocked expression. The whole world felt like it was spinning as Legolas gazed upon the beauty sitting across from him. His heart wrenched with pain beyond words, as he thought of the precious beloved that he had lost those years ago. Leannan just sat still like a stone, and Legolas could tell she was fighting. The distress on her face was evident as she silently gained her composure. Aragorn had placed a gentle hand on her arm, and his expression was that of hurt as well. Not one could guess the torment going on in the hearts of three persons present at the council.
He felt his chest surge with pride as he watched Leannan blink away her mournful expression and calmly meet his eyes. She politely nodded in his direction and then returned her gaze to Aragorn to assure him that she was all right.
He let out a long silent breath and felt himself relax.
Then finally, the grand voice of Gandalf boomed as he marched into the room with the sound of the "click click" of his staff on the stone floor.
" Here, my friends, is the hobbit, Frodo son of Drogo. Few have ever come hither through greater peril or on an errand more urgent." he announced loudly.
While introductions were made, Legolas silently studied Frodo, who stood tensely next to Bilbo Baggins. The two hobbits looked so small while standing next to Gandalf! After the brief introductions were finished, Gandalf and the hobbits took their seats in the council and things began.
~~~~~~~
There was much already known by members seated in the council and not all had to be discussed. Leannan had heard many rumors as well; but Gloin's tale was new to her. Leannan was all ears, listening intently, as Gloin stood before the group and spoke in his gruff voice.
She glanced over at Frodo who turned his attentive gaze away from the dwarf and met her eyes. She smiled warmly at him and felt like chuckling when his face turned a shade pink.
Leannan felt her heart leap a bit when she looked across at Legolas. He did not meet her gaze, and Leannan was relieved. The calmness in his eyes maddened her. It had not taken her long to figure out that he knew she'd be here. That rogue! He had known all along that she was in Rivendell. She knew he regretted it, it was in his eyes. Ah, his eyes! So full of wisdom and sapience, she could get lost in them. They were eyes that had seen so many things in this world, eyes that had lived through many ages. She had seen the sorrow in his gaze, a look she'd seen before, a look that had broken her heart.
" And so I have been sent at last by Dain to warn Bilbo that he is sought by the Enemy, and to learn, if may be, why he desires this ring, this least of rings. Also we crave the advice of Elrond. For the Shadow grows and draws nearer." Said Gloin, his words jerking Leannan back to the present.
So Sauron had sent a messenger to Dain, who was still King under the mountain and was now past his two hundred and fiftieth year. Leannan could not imagine what it would be like to live so old. It was even more amazing with the immortal elves.
" You have done well to come," said Elrond. " You will hear today all that you need in order to understand the purposes of the Enemy. There is nothing that you can do, other than to resist, with hope or without it. But you do not stand-alone. You will learn that your trouble is but part of the trouble of the entire western world. The Ring! What shall we do with the Ring, the least of rings, the trinket that Sauron fancies? That is the doom we must deem."
Leannan leaned forward in her seat. Now the council was getting very interesting. She wanted to learn all she could of Sauron and this "least of rings" he desired so.
She listened, captivated, as Elrond continued.
" That is the purpose for which you are called here... Called, I say, though I have not called you to me, strangers from distant lands. You have come and here met, in this very nick of time, by chance, as it may seem. Yet it is not so. Believe rather that it is so ordered that we, who sit here, and none others, must now find counsel for the peril of the world."
Not here by chance? Leannan did not like the sound of that. She did not like the idea that she actually had a purpose in this council. She was here merely to learn!
And learn she did, as Elrond began the Tale of Ring in his clear and rich voice.
He spoke of Sauron and of the forging of the Rings of Power in the Second Age. Some in the council knew of bits and pieces of this tale, and some had never heard. But the entire tale, no one knew. The entire council sat in utter awe as they listened.
Elrond told of the Elven-smiths of Eregion and their friendship with Moria. How Sauron ensnared them by their eagerness to learn. He spoke of Sauron's betrayal and how he secretly forged the One Ring in the Mountain of Fire. And then a war broke out when Celebrimbor became aware of Sauron's betrayal, and he hid the three rings, which he had made. And in result of the dark war, the gate of Moria was shut.
It was a dark tale, and Leannan felt a deep sadness come over her heart as Elrond spoke, even as the sun shined high in the sky and the morning began to pass.
Elrond also spoke of very old history that Leannan barely knew. Some she recognized from her schooling with the elves, but some were quite unknown. She found herself completely captivated with the amazing history of Numenor's glory and fall, and the return of Men to Middle-Earth out of the depths of the sea.
Suddenly, in the middle of Elrond's tale, Frodo spoke aloud for the first time.
" You remember?" He began to stammer when Elrond's turned to him. " I thought...I thought that the fall of Gil-galad was a long age ago."
" So it was indeed," answered Elrond gravely. " But my memory reaches back even to the Elder Days. Earendil was my sire, who was born in Gondolin before its fall; and my mother was Elwing, daughter of Dior, son of Luthien of Doriath. I have seen three ages in the West of the world, and many defeats, and many fruitless victories."
Leannan's eyes become huge at Elrond's words. Amazing! She thought, in absolute awe. Leannan's respect for Elrond became ever greater after she learned this.
And then Elrond went on to tell a part of the tale that Leannan had heard from Aragorn. It was the tale of Isildur, and how he cut the ring from the hand of Sauron with the sword of his father, claiming the ring as his own.
At this the stranger, Boromir, broke in, causing Leannan to jump a bit in her seat. " So that is what became of the Ring!" he cried. " If ever such a tale was told in the South, it has long been forgotten. I have heard of the Great Ring of him that we do not name; but we believed that it perished from the world in the ruin of his first realm. Isildur took it! That is news indeed!"
" Alas! Yes," said Elrond. " Isildur took it, as should not have been. It should have been cast then into Orodruin's fire whence it was made. But Isildur did not listen to our counsel."
Leannan knew the rest of this tale. After Isildur took the Ring, he was betrayed by it to his death, and the Ring was lost but not destroyed.
Elrond went on to tell of the happenings after the war, and Leannan began to grow weary. That was, until Boromir stood up, tall and proud, before the council.
He spoke of Gondor, the land where he came, and of its peril. He told that smoke arises once more from the Orodruin that is also called Mount Doom, and that there was sudden war upon them from Mordor. They were outnumbered, because Mordor had allied itself with the Easterlings and the cruel Haradrim.
Leannan felt a dark shudder up her spine when he said, "But it was not by numbers that we were defeated. A power was there that we have not felt before."
He turned to face Elrond and said, " I have not journeyed so long seeking allies in war, but the wise counsel of Elrond."
And then he told of a dream he and his brother had in which these words were spoken:
Seek for the Sword that was broken;
In Imladris it dwells;
There shall be counsels taken
Stronger than Morgul-spells.
There shall be shown a token
That Doom is near at hand,
For Isildur's Bane shall waken,
And the halfling forth shall stand.
Leannan felt Aragorn stir at her side and then watched him stand after Boromir had spoken. Her gaze followed the man that had raised her and watched him stand proudly in front of Boromir.
" And here in the house of Elrond more shall be made clear to you," Said Aragorn, placing a sword upon the table in the center of the circle. Leannan leaned out of her seat and squinted at the sword. The blade was in two pieces! " Here is the Sword that was broken!" he announced to them all.
Boromir glared at Aragorn in both amazement and curiosity. " Who are you, and what have you to do with Minas Tirith?" he asked, studying the Ranger closely.
Legolas spoke up now and stood as well. " He is Aragorn son of Arathorn! And he is a descendent of Isildur, son of Elendil of Minas Ithil."
At this Frodo sprung to his feet and cried in bewilderment, " Then it belongs to you, and not to me at all!"
" It belongs to neither of us, " said Aragorn. " But you are appointed to be keeper of it for now."
Leannan watched Frodo sadly as he struggled to hide the bitter disappointment. The poor hobbit! To hold such a burden!
His face and voice grave, Gandalf looked to Frodo. " Bring out the Ring, Frodo."
The room became deathly silent, and Legolas, Boromir, and Aragorn stood like frozen stones. Leannan felt her breath leave her as Frodo, looking so afraid, held the ring up before the council with a shaking hand.
" Behold, Isildur's Bane!" announced Elrond.
Boromir and Aragorn began to speak now, and Legolas silently took his seat. Leannan noticed much doubt in the eyes of Boromir as he and Aragorn discussed the sword of Elendil. This disturbed Leannan some, and she shifted uncomfortably in her seat as the dispute wore on.
Then, there was a sudden burst of song interrupting the discussion and Bilbo, somewhat annoyed, jumped up and sang:
All that is gold does not glitter,
Not all those who wander are lost;
The old that is strong does not wither,
Deep roots are not reached by the frost.
From the ashes a fire shall be woken,
A light from the shadows shall spring;
Renewed shall be blade that was broken:
The crownless again shall be king.
With snort and a couple short words, Bilbo returned to his seat. Leannan covered her mouth to hide her smile of amusement at the song he had sung with such irritation. She watched him lean over to Frodo and whisper proudly, " I made it up myself!"
Aragorn smiled at the hobbit and turned back to Boromir. They exchanged some more, somewhat heated, words, and Leannan began to drift off again, not paying much attention. Her ears perked up though, and her heart began to beat faster when she heard someone refer to her.
Boromir was glaring at her with suspicion. " And who is this woman that accompanies you?" he asked Aragorn. " I am not certain if I agree with the concept of a woman in the presence of this noble council!"
Aragorn raised his brows, and Leannan turned stark red. She remembered Aragorn's orders to keep silent and bit her tongue.
" This, most noble Boromir, is my traveling companion, Leannan."
" The great heir of Isildur travels with a woman?" Boromir scoffed. " I find it amusing that you would choose such an incompetent creature to accompany you."
He gave a bow in Leannan's direction. " No offense, madam."
Leannan gave him a cool nod and tried to keep the irritation from showing.
Gandalf gave a chuckle and said, " This woman, whom Boromir so hastily calls weak, has been trained in the arts of combat and survival under the strict authority of Aragorn since she was but a child." His dark eyes glinted with amusement. " And I assure you, Boromir, that there is no need to worry about her presence in this council."
Boromir, evidently stunned, gave another bow in Leannan's direction, and the matter was dropped.
The audacity of that man! Leannan was greatly disturbed at his doubtful attitude towards not only her, but Aragorn as well. She saw the distaste in his eyes, and her blood boiled. He did not think her worthy enough to be apart of this council! Of course it was like a man to assume a woman incapable and inefficient. Leannan fought the urge to "humph" in her seat, and instead slouched with folded arms, glaring at Boromir with dislike.
~~~~~~~
Legolas could read the rankled expression on Leannan face and found it amusing. He knew she was fuming right now at Boromir's accusation. Legolas had fought the urge himself to oppose. He knew very well that Leannan was very skilled and most definitely worthy of attending this council. She had the fortune of being trained by Aragorn and the elves. He himself had even had the windfall of training Leannan in some arts. The memory brought a deep ache to his heart. Their times together had been such treasures, and he remembered them with the deepest regard. They had been special times; times where they had bonded and grown to know one another. She had been so eager to learn from him, and he had found so much joy in teaching her.
One memory stuck in his mind and he couldn't help bringing it up at this moment in time...
" No, Leannan, you are holding the knife wrong." Legolas told the young woman from his perch on the grassy ground. He leaned against a tree and watched Leannan intently as she practiced her knife tossing. He knew it was her passion, her talent, but she still had a ways to go. But she loved learning, and he felt very fortunate to have such an obedient scholar.
He smiled lightly as she struggled to get her grip right on the handle of the embellished dagger.
" Legolas..." She looked at him with an exasperated look on her fair face. " I cannot get this right. Come instruct me." She said with a half order, half pout.
Legolas lifted himself gracefully from the ground. She looked rather cute, he thought. She had thrown the dagger onto the ground and stood with her small hands in fists at her sides. Her irked look was charming, and it would have fit the scene perfectly if she had stomped her foot. But she did not; she just stood and waited for Legolas to enlighten her.
" Like this, pen tithen." Legolas moved her hands about the knife with his own until they were in the right position. " Remember what I taught you about aiming."
He stepped back and told her to give it a try. He watched proudly as she aimed exactly as he had taught her and threw the knife gracefully. Right on target. She was catching on. " Do it again." Came his order.
The next time she handled the dagger correctly. " Well done, Leannan. You may rest now."
They moved away from the range, and Leannan dropped on the ground to lean against the tree. She sighed contentedly as a breeze blew her locks and looked up at the sky. Legolas dropped onto the ground next to her and leaned against the other side of the tree.
" Do you ever look at the sky, Legolas?" She asked randomly and Legolas studied the dreamy look on her face as she gazed up at the soft blue sky and puffy white clouds.
" It is always there, I see it many times." He replied.
She smiled. " But do you ever just look, for the enjoyment of it?"
Legolas watched her like a hawk and wondered why she asked such questions. " I do not suppose I do, pen tithen."
She shifted and looked away from the sky. " Oh but it is very pleasant to do. The sky is so beautiful. Especially during the daytime when it is full of white clouds."
She gazed back up again, and they were both silent. The breeze sweeping through the forest was refreshing, and the sound of the river was distant and melodious.
" Since you do not look at the sky for enjoyment then I do not suppose you ever try to guess what the clouds are shaped like."
Legolas frowned and glanced up at the sky that Leannan so intently studied. "They have no specific shape." He told her.
She smiled softly. " But do you ever try to guess what they closest resemble? Look at that cloud, " She pointed and Legolas looked up. " Look at it very closely and tell me what it most reminds you of."
Legolas, with his keen eyesight, considered persistently the cloud that Leannan had pointed out to him. He was very silent and in deep concentration. Leannan tried not to laugh at the serious look on his fair face. She loved how his forehead creased when he was in thought and how the breeze swept his flaxen hair.
Finally he spoke. " It looks like a castle. Yes, a castle in the sky." He looked at her, and his face brightened. " This, cloud watching you do, pen tithen, is very interesting. I shall have to try it more often so I can be better at it."
He and Leannan shared a warm smile, and they had spent the rest of the day sprawled on the grass gazing up at the sky watching the passing clouds…
It had been a beautiful day, one that Legolas will always remember. The way the sun had shined down on Leannan's golden brown hair and the beautiful look on her face as she dreamed. Years later, he still looked up at the sky and remembered his times with Leannan. She had taught him the beauty of dreaming, and he had learned to treasure each and every one.
Legolas pulled himself back to the present and scolded himself for getting so lost in thought. No doubt, the council was curious as to why he had that zoned look on his face and his brow was creased. And indeed, when he glanced around at everyone, he received some stares from several of the members, but thankfully no one commented. The meeting had worn on, and he was terribly disappointed to find that he had missed very much of it.
Gandalf was talking now, telling his tale. Legolas felt his stomach lurch when he realized he was talking about Gollum. He swallowed the lump in his throat as Gandalf said, "Still I for one am glad that he is safely kept by the watchful Elves of Mirkwood. His malice is great and gives him a strength hardly to be believed in one so lean and withered. He could work much mischief still, if he were free. And I do not doubt that he was allowed to leave Mordor on some evil errand."
Legolas stood abruptly, causing the council to stir, and Gandalf to turn his penetrating gaze to the elegant elf.
" Alas! Alas!" Legolas cried with an aggrieved look upon his fair and noble face. " The news that I was sent to bring must now be told. The report is not good, but only here have I learned how evil they may seem to this company. Smeagol, who is now called Gollum, has escaped."
Aragorn bellowed, " Escaped? That is ill tidings indeed." He lifted his hand and ran it through his raven colored hair. " How came the folk of Thranduil to fail in their trust?"
Legolas felt very sheepish, but did not show it in his actions or speech. " I assure you it was not through lack of watchfulness, but perhaps through over-kindliness. And we fear that the prisoner had aid from others, and that more is known of our doings than we could wish. We guarded this creature day and night, at Gandalf's bidding, much though we wearied of the task. But Gandalf bade us hope still for his cure, and we had not the heart to keep him ever in dungeons under the earth, where he would fall back into his old black thoughts."
Gloin spoke, and Legolas listened but did not comment on the dwarf's ruthless remarks. Gandalf was quick to silence him though, and Gloin offered a bow to Legolas, who continued with his news.
Legolas told them that they had allowed Gollum to climb into his favorite tree in the woods, and they set a guard at the foot of the trunk. But one day, the creature refused to come down, and the guard did not want to climb up after him. So they waited by the tree through the night. And on that very night of the summer, dark and starless, Orcs attacked without notice. The elves fought them off as the orcs came from over the mountains, unfamiliar to the woods. It was understood that the attack was planned for the rescue of Gollum and that the creature knew of it prior. The elves of Mirkwood were unable to recapture Gollum and trailed him for many miles, but they failed.
Legolas returned to his seat after giving his news and felt a weight of downfall as Gandalf and the others spoke solemnly. He caught Leannan's look, and she managed a reassuring smile.
~~~~~~~
Most of the tales had been told now and Leannan had learned a great deal. She felt very honored to be included in such significant, and secretive, information. She felt as if a light had been turned on, and she could see now. She no longer knew only bits and pieces of the happenings.
The last thing to discuss now was what to do with the Ring? The question had been weighing on her for quite some time now and she was anxious to know. Leannan knew that the Ring must be destroyed in the fires of Mount Doom, but how? she wondered.
She smiled when Bilbo spoke up and assumed that it was his job to finish, being that he had started the whole affair. But Gandalf informed him that it was not his duty to finish it and advised him to stay in Rivendell and finish his book.
" I have never known you to give such pleasant advice before." Bilbo told Gandalf with a laugh. " But tell me, what do you mean by they?"
" The messengers who are sent with the Ring." came the reply.
" Exactly! And who are they to be? Can't you think of some names now? Or put it off till after dinner?"
Silence followed and no one spoke. Leannan cast a nervous glance about the room and noticed Frodo staring intently at the Ring. She could not read the look on his face but it made her fearful. It was almost as if he was in a trace. Leannan quickly looked down into her lap and fought her fears.
And then, in the dreadful silence of the room, Frodo stood before the council. Leannan felt her heart sink as the brave hobbit spoke.
" I will take it! I will take the Ring to Mordor." He said, apprehensively and then paused before saying, " Though I do not know the way."
Gandalf stood, towering over the admirable hobbit, and laid his hand upon Frodo's shoulder. " I will help you bear this burden, Frodo Baggins. As long as it is yours to bear."
The room seemed to come alive at that moment! All heads shot up to stare at the trembling hobbit and the powerful wizard who stood by his side.
Leannan let out a small gasp when Aragorn rose to his feet and knelt before Frodo, sword in hand. Her hand came to her mouth and she listened with dread in her heart as Aragorn said, "If by my life or death, if I can protect you, I will. You have my sword."
Leannan felt like crying out and bitter tears stung in her eyes. How could Aragorn do this?
" And you have my bow." Leannan watched Legolas stand as well and pledge his own protection to the hobbit.
Gimli raised his axe. " And you have my axe!" He said gruffly.
Boromir moved towards the forming company and said to Frodo, "You carry the fate of us all little one. If this is indeed the will of the council, then Gondor will see it done. "
Leannan felt an aching loneliness creep into her heart, and she stammered but no words left her mouth. She was left alone in her seat. Alone! Aragorn had left her and pledged his allegiance to the hobbit. The hobbit. Leannan looked at Frodo who stood proudly and the relief on his face was so evident. This was the hobbit that she had sung to every night at the campfire, the hobbit that she had visited on his sickbed. And now he carried this dark burden, how alone he must have feel! Just as Leannan felt now sitting in her seat and watching her companion leave her. Ah what to do?!
And then, it was as if a bright light shined on her heart, and Leannan knew what she must do. This was her fate, her calling. She would follow her comrade, Aragorn, on his journey to destroy the evil Ring. She would pledge her allegiance to the gallant hobbit, Frodo.
Leannan lifted herself from the chair walked to the gathering company. She knelt before the hobbit and his face was that of complete surprise. A silence fell upon the group.
" Hobbit, I have not much to offer you." She took his hand in her own and continued. " Nothing but my allegiance and willingness to protect you no matter where the road may lead us."
Frodo blinked a couple times and then broke into a smile. Leannan stood and faced Aragorn. " And, my faithful friend, you have taught me everything I know. I owe you everything; you have given me the life I live now. And I will follow you to the ends of this earth."
Aragorn stared with deep emotion in his dark eyes. He was so proud of her! Before he could say anything, there was a rustle in the bushes and out jumped none other but Samwise Gamgee!
" Here! Mr. Frodo is not going anywhere without me!" he cried.
Leannan broke into a chuckle at the determined hobbit. He was so faithful to his master, Frodo!
"No, indeed, it is hardly possible to separate you from him, even when he is summoned to a secret council, and you are not." Elrond said, eyeing Sam closely.
Frodo was grinning at his friend and many chuckles flowed from the crowd. Just then, there was another rustle behind one of the pillars and out jumped Frodo's two other loyal companions!
"Oi! We're coming too! You'd have to send us home tied up in a sack to stop us." Cried Merry.
They came to stand dutifully at Frodo's side, and Pippin said with his hands on his hips, "Anyway, you need people of intelligence on this sort of mission… quest… thing."
Merry leaned near Pippin and whispered loud enough for everyone to hear, "Well, that rules you out, Pip."
Pippin gave Merry a face and then turned to listen to Elrond announce, "Ten companions. So be it! You shall be the fellowship of the ring."
Leannan felt her chest swell with pride. She had done the right thing; she knew it. And the peace she felt was clear.
Pippin clapped his hands and searched the faces of the council. " Great! So where are we going?"
~~~~~~~