Here be chapter two! I'm glad everyone is liking it.
Moving right along!
Own them I do not.
Sam watched as several dozen Elves practiced shooting arrows at targets. A month had passed since her arrival at Mirkwood. She was still sore from her near fatal wound, but she was able to move around and actually walk again.
"Care to give it a try?" Legolas asked from behind.
Sam jumped slightly but hid it by turning to him. "Archery? I haven't done it since I was a kid."
"No one here will judge you on your skill," he returned. She nodded and he handed her a beautifully made bow. She took it and followed him to an empty target. Sam looked down at the target that was fifty feet away. She accepted the arrow from the Elf and knocked it to the bowstring. She pulled it back and waited for the wind to dissipate slightly. Satisfied, she let loose with the arrow and it hit the bull's-eye, about an inch from dead center. "Amazing," Legolas complimented.
Sam shrugged modestly. "It's no big deal."
"Try it from farther away," Legolas suggested.
She shrugged and they moved to a target that was one hundred feet away. Sam pulled the arrow back and let loose. Again, the arrow hit the bull's-eye close to dead center. The Elf motioned her to follow and they moved to a target that was fifty yards away. "I can't hit that with an arrow," Sam said.
"Yes you can," Legolas said.
"No one can hit that mark," she returned.
He took the bow and arrow from her and let the bolt fly. It struck the target dead center. Sam stared in shock. "Even Aragorn can hit that mark." Sam lined up her shot and let the arrow fly. It flew over the target and the Elf smiled. "Relax and focus on the target. Visualize your arrow striking the target."
Sam let out a slow breath and did as he instructed. She released the arrow and it struck close to the one Legolas had fired. She lowered the bow in shock. "I…I did it…" she said in disbelief.
"A job well done," Thranduil complimented. "I am pleased to see you up and about Samantha."
"You can call me Sam if you want," she said.
"If that is your wish. We have some fresh clothes for you if you wish."
"I don't want to be a burden or anything," Sam began.
"You are no burden, I assure you," Thranduil said. He motioned for the pair to follow him. They walked through the halls of the palace, heading to the room where Sam had been staying. Lying on the bed were several beautiful gowns in varying shades of blue. Next to the dresses were several pairs of black leather pants and several white long sleeve shirts. Black leather and dark blue leather tunics lay near the white shirts.
"We weren't sure if you prefer dresses or the clothes men wear," Legolas said. "So we had both brought in for you."
Sam was touched at their thoughtfulness. "I…I don't know what to say…"
"They are all yours if you want them," Thranduil said.
"I can't accept them all," Sam returned. "Not that I don't want them, it's just… you all barely know me. I…I feel bad about how much I'm already imposing on you…"
"Nonsense child!" Maive said, having come into the room without anyone noticing. "You are like a daughter to us."
"You are more than welcome to make this place your home," Thranduil added.
Sam looked down. I owe these people…they saved my life. And if I can't go back home…I should make a new home for myself. Maybe…maybe it could be here…with Legolas and his family… She lifted her gaze and smiled softly. "Thank you…for everything you've done for me."
Maive turned to the two men. "Out you two! Let her change in peace!" She shooed them out and closed the door. "Do you need any help?"
Sam set her SG-1 jacket on the bed. "No thanks. I should be able to get these on." She untied her combat boots and slipped her feet out of them. She changed into a pair of black leather pants and hid her surprise at how perfectly they fit. She pulled on the white shirt and a dark blue leather tunic.
Maive smiled and handed Sam a black leather belt. Sam buckled it around her waist and saw the Elf woman offering her two black bracers with silver interlaid within the leather. Sam took them and tied them onto her arms. Maive smiled as she looked Sam over. "You must look incredibly beautiful in a dress if this is how beautiful you look in men's clothing."
Sam smiled in embarrassment. "Thanks." She pulled on a pair of black leather boots by the foot of the bed and smiled at how comfortable they were.
The two walked out and saw Thranduil and Legolas waiting. "If I did not know any better, I'd swear you were an Elf," Thranduil chuckled. He and Maive walked away.
"You have very kind parents," Sam said.
Legolas smiled. "Try living with them for two thousand years."
Sam stared at him. "That's how old you are?"
He nodded. "Elves are immortal."
"Talk about your older men…" Sam murmured.
"I heard that," he said and laughed at her stunned look. "Our hearing and sight are far greater than that of Humans."
"I'll try to remember that," she muttered.
He smiled. "Do you know how to fight?"
"What?"
"With a sword I mean." She shook her head. "I could teach you if you want."
"I'd like that," Sam agreed.
"Mān," he said.
"What?"
"I apologize. It is Elvish for good."
"I don't suppose you could teach me how to speak Elvish…could you?"
He smiled. "Of course."
- - - - - - - - - -
Two years later…
- - - - - - - - - -
Sam parried Aragorn's slash and dropped down, sweeping his legs out from under him. He landed hard on his back and Sam grinned as she rose to her feet. "I believe that's two out of three," she stated. She helped him to his feet, tossing her braid over her shoulder. Upon learning that nearly everyone had long hair in Middle Earth, Sam had opted to not cut her hair so as to blend in easier.
"You may not be an Elf, but you are as quick as one," he stated.
"I shall take that as a compliment," she returned.
"Nice to see you two getting along," a voice said. They turned and saw Gandalf walking towards them.
"What brings you here Gandalf?" Aragorn asked.
"I have a favor I need of you," the wizard said. "It is of the utmost urgency."
"What is it?" Legolas asked.
Gandalf quickly explained about a Hobbit named Frodo Baggins coming into possession of a ring of power. "We must see him safely to Rivendell."
"He cannot make the journey alone," Aragorn said.
"I know. Which is why I need you to meet him at the Prancing Pony in case I am delayed in returning from Isengard," Gandalf said.
"I shall go with him," Legolas said.
"Elrond has called a meeting in Rivendell," Thranduil said, walking up. "He has requested you go."
"I can go with Aragorn," Sam offered.
"It will be a perilous journey Samantha," Thranduil cautioned.
"I know, but if this ring is as dangerous as it sounds, then all the help we can muster will be needed," she said.
"A valid point," Gandalf agreed.
"We shall depart immediately," Aragorn informed Sam. She nodded and sheathed the Elven sword that had been given to her. It was a bit unwieldy for her to use, but she was still able to fight with it. She ran to her room and gathered a few things, including extra clothes and a bedroll. She grabbed a quiver bristling with arrows and the bow that Legolas had gotten for her. Sam buckled the quiver on and slid her bow into the holster on her back. She ran back to the others and saw that Maive had joined them.
The Elf woman walked to Sam. "Please return safely to us," she said, hugging the young woman.
"I will. I promise," Sam said. "This is my home after all."
"Safe journey Samiel," Thranduil said, hugging her.
Sam heard the suffix attached to her name, signifying that he was calling her Daughter Sam. She smiled and broke the hug. "Thank you…Atar Thranduil," she said (Father). She followed Aragorn to the stables and saddled a light black horse. She attached her supplies to the back of the saddle and climbed up. The two rode out of the stables and headed for the Inn of the Prancing Pony in Bree.
- - - - - - - - - -
Sam looked around at the village of Bree then up to the sky. "Looks like it might rain soon," she murmured.
Aragorn nodded. "I am known here as Strider."
"Got it." She looked around, raising the hood to her black cloak.
"Something the matter?" he asked.
"I just feel uneasy, like something more than a storm is coming."
"I feel it too," Aragorn agreed.
"I'll keep watch outside while you go meet the Hobbit," Sam said.
"Be safe Samantha," he whispered and left for the inn.
The blonde ducked into an alley and saw a ladder that was propped up to the roof. She quickly climbed up and hid behind the chimney as night began to fall with heavy rain. She rubbed her hands together to keep them warm when she saw four small shapes hurrying to the Prancing Pony. She frowned but remained where she was. "Next time Aragorn gets to stay out in the rain all night," she muttered. She remained on the thatched roof for another hour when she saw Aragorn's form hurrying the four small figures away from the inn. He made a quick gesture with his hand, signaling Sam to come out. She hurried off the roof and jogged after Aragorn.
They went into another inn and climbed up to a large room where they could still see the Prancing Pony. "What is it?" Sam asked, keeping her hood raised.
"Ringwraiths," he replied.
"Holy Hannah," Sam whispered, having heard the stories about them from Aragorn on their way to Bree.
"Who is this?" a stout looking Hobbit demanded.
"My companion," Aragorn answered. "Get some rest while you can," he advised as he sat warily at the window. Sam positioned herself by the door, her left hand holding her sword as she tried to quell her nerves. Three of the Hobbits fell asleep on the large bed as they waited.
"There," Aragorn whispered several hours later. Sam quickly peered out of the window and saw several black shapes entering the Prancing Pony. After a few minutes, they could hear loud shrieks of rage echoing from the inn.
"What are they?" the Hobbit, Frodo, asked.
"They were once men. Great Kings of men. Then Sauron the deceiver gave to them Nine Rings of Power. Blinded by their greed they took them without question, one by one falling into darkness," Aragorn said. "Now they are slaves to his will." He watched as the Ringwraiths galloped away. "They are the Nazgul, Ringwraiths. Neither living nor dead. At all times they feel the presence of the Ring…drawn to the power of the one. They will never stop hunting you." Frodo gulped nervously.
- - - - - - - - - -
The next day, Aragorn led them through a thick forest. The four Hobbits followed after him with Sam bringing up the rear. So far they had managed to lose the Ringwraiths but both Aragorn and Sam knew it wouldn't be for long.
"Where are you taking us?" Frodo demanded.
"Into the wild," Aragorn answered.
One of the Hobbits, Merry, caught up to Frodo. "How do we know this Strider is a friend of Gandalf's?" he whispered.
"We have no choice but to trust him," Frodo replied.
"But where is he and his friend taking us?" Samwise asked.
"To Rivendell Master Gamgee. To the house of Elrond," Sam answered.
Samwise looked very excited. "Did you hear that Bill?" he asked his small pony. "Rivendell! We're going to see the Elves!"
The group continued for a short time until the Hobbits stopped and began to rummage through their knapsacks. Aragorn heard and turned to them. "Gentlemen, we do not stop until nightfall."
"What about breakfast?" Pippin inquired.
"You've already had it," Sam pointed out.
Pippin turned to Sam. "We've had one yes. But what about second breakfast?"
Sam resisted the urge to smack her head and moved past the Hobbits as Aragorn disappeared over the hill. "I don't think they know about second breakfast Pip," Merry said to his friend.
"What about Elevenses, luncheon, afternoon tea, dinner, supper…they know about them, right?" Pippin asked frantically.
"I wouldn't count on it," Merry said. He looked up and caught the apple that Sam had thrown back to them. A second apple followed and struck Pippin on the head. "Pippin!" Merry exclaimed exasperated.
The small band continued trudging through the forest until night began to fall. In the distance they could see a large hill with old ruins atop it. "This was once the great Watchtower of Amon Sul. We shall rest here for tonight," Aragorn informed them. They climbed halfway up the hill when the Hobbits collapsed in a small hollow.
Sam placed four small swords at the Hobbits' feet. "These are for you," she informed them, sitting down near the hollow.
"Keep them close," Aragorn advised. He turned to Sam. "I'm going to have a look around." She nodded and he disappeared into the night.
Sam watched as the Hobbits settled down. Frodo looked at Sam. "Where do you come from?"
"I was born in a land very far from here," she said. "A few years ago I lost my way home, but the Elves of Mirkwood were kind enough to allow me to live with them."
"You're a warrior?" he asked.
She nodded. "I am." She smiled kindly at him. "Get some rest Frodo. You look as though you need it." He nodded and laid down, closing his eyes. Sam looked at the other three. "I'm going to check quickly on the horses. Stay hidden." She rose to her feet and quickly slipped from the hollow. Sam patted her light black stallion. "I miss him too," she said softly, her mind drifting to Legolas. "Maybe we'll see him in Rivendell," she smiled faintly. "Keep an eye on Bill Randir." (Wanderer)
The stallion whinnied softly and she looked up at the hill. Her blue eyes narrowed as she saw the fire. "Idiots!" she hissed. She shoved the horse away as a shriek filled the air. She turned and saw several shapes running up the hill. Sam ran after them, praying that the Hobbits would be okay.
"What happened?" Aragorn demanded as he joined her in running up the hill.
"They started a fire when I went to check on the horses! The Nazgul must have seen it!" she shouted back. He cursed in a few languages and put on more speed as did Sam. They reached the top of the hill and saw that Merry and Pippin had thrown themselves to the ground and Samwise was recovering from a nasty punch. Frodo was nowhere to be seen.
"He's put the ring on…" Aragorn realized. He pulled his sword out, a torch in his other hand. He charged the Ringwraiths, striking them with both his sword and the torch. They heard a sharp cry of pain and Frodo reappeared.
"Mr. Frodo!" Samwise yelled, scrambling to the Hobbit's side.
Sam pulled her sword free and slammed it into the back of a Ringwraith. It screamed in pain and ran away as Aragorn set fire to several others. Aragorn made sure the Ringwraiths were fleeing before kneeling down next to Frodo. Sam pointed to a thin dagger lying near Frodo. "He was stabbed with that," she murmured.
Aragorn picked up the blade and studied it. "Help him Strider!" Samwise begged.
"He's been stabbed by a Morgul Blade," Aragorn said. The blade of the dagger began to melt and he threw the hilt down in disgust.
"Do something!" Samwise pleaded.
"This is beyond my ability to heal," Aragorn replied grimly. "He needs Elvish medicine." He lifted the ailing Hobbit onto his shoulders and began to run, Sam and the other three Hobbits following, pausing only long enough to make three torches.
"We're still days from Rivendell," Sam said as they ran.
Frodo groaned. "Hold on Frodo!" Aragorn snapped.
"He'll never make it!" Samwise cried.
"Gandalf…Gandalf…" Frodo whispered. They continued running for another half hour when they had to stop for a rest.
"Is…is he going to die?" Pippin asked.
"No. He is passing into the shadow realm," Aragorn explained. "He will soon become a wraith like them." As if to emphasize his point, a shriek from a Ringwraith echoed in the distance.
"The…they're close…" Merry whispered nervously.
"Samwise, do you know the Athelas plant?" Aragorn asked.
"Athelas?"
"It's also known as Kingsfoil, right?" Sam asked, looking up from wiping Frodo's fevered brow.
"Aye," Aragorn said.
"I know it. It's a weed," Samwise said.
"It may help slow the poison. Hurry!" Aragorn ordered. The Hobbit raced into the woods to find the plant, Aragorn running off in another direction.
"Will he be okay?" Pippin asked Sam.
"We can only hope so," Sam said. "Frodo, you need to fight the poison. You have to fight it!" She heard a faint rustling in the forest and rose to her feet, her sword out when a figure in white came into view. The figure leapt off the white horse and approached the four.
"Frodo, Im Arwen. Telin let thaed. Lasto beth nin, tolo dan na ngalad," the figure said in a musical voice. (I am Arwen. I have come here to help you. Hear my voice, come back to the light)
"Who is she?" Pippin asked.
"She's an Elf," Sam answered.
"He is fading. He's not going to last. We must get him to my father," Arwen said as Aragorn and Samwise returned. Aragorn lifted Frodo onto her horse. "I have been looking for you for two days."
"Where are you taking him?" Pippin demanded.
"There are five Wraiths behind you. Where the other four are I do not know," Arwen went on, ignoring Pippin.
"Dartho guin Berian…rych le ad tolthathon," Aragorn said. (Stay with the Hobbits. I'll send horses for you)
"Hon mabathon. Rochoh ellint im," Arwen returned. (I'm the faster rider)
Sam watched as Aragorn placed his hand on Arwen's. "Andelu I ven," he countered. (The road is too dangerous)
"Frodo fir. Ae anthradon I hir, tur gwaith nin beriatha hon," Arwen said. (If I can cross the river, then the power of my people can protect him)
"What are they saying?" Pippin asked, looking at the others.
They watched as Arwen smiled at Aragorn. "I do not fear them."
"Arwen, ride hard, don't look back," Aragorn finally said.
"I'll go with her," Sam said. "I may not be faster than her, but I'm still faster than you," she said as he opened his mouth. Aragorn reluctantly nodded.
Sam mounted Randir as Arwen mounted her horse, Asfaloth. "What are you doing? Those Wraiths are still out there!" Samwise shouted.
"Noro lim, Asfaloth! Noro lim!" Arwen urged her horse.
"Noro lim Randir," Sam said to the stallion. The two horses and their riders leapt away, galloping out of sight. They crashed through the black forest, both women occasionally urging their horses to put on more speed. They emerged from the trees as the sun began rising. Sam glanced back and saw two Wraiths coming towards them on black horses. "Nazgul!" she shouted to Arwen. Two more Wraiths emerged from either side of the two riders.
Arwen saw two more Wraiths galloping down a hillside while Sam noted three more were coming up from behind. "Noro lim Asfaloth!" Arwen cried. Sam urged Randir to go faster as well. The blonde pulled her bow out and knocked an arrow. She turned in her saddle and fired the arrow at the lead Wraith, cursing silently when it didn't slow him down. She turned back and saw light glinting off of something up ahead.
The two women galloped through the ford, not stopping until they reached the other side. Sam turned and looked at the Wraiths. Arwen did the same. "Give up the Halfling she-Elf!" the lead Wraith shouted in a raspy voice.
Arwen drew her sword as did Sam. "If you want him, come and claim him!" the Elf challenged. The Wraiths surged into the river. "Non o Chithaeglir, lasto beth daer: Rimmo nin Briunen Dan in Ulaer! Non o Chithaeglir, lasto beth daer: Rimmo nin Briunen Dan in Ulaer!" Arwen chanted urgently. The river surged down on the Wraiths and carried them away, their shrieks filling the air as the river died back down.
"Holy Hannah…" Sam whispered.
"No, no! Frodo no!" Arwen shouted. Sam turned and saw that the Hobbit had lost consciousness. "Frodo, don't give in! Not now!"
"Go! I'll go back for the others," Sam said.
"No," Arwen said. "You are far too tired and would never find them. Come. Quickly!" They rode on and arrived in a large, beautiful city. Several Elves ran up to Arwen and took Frodo away. The Elf briefly spoke with another before the latter ran off.
Sam slid off her horse as did Arwen. The blonde suppressed a yawn and looked around the city. "This place is amazing…"
"Thank you," Arwen said.
"What about the others?" Sam asked.
"Horses and Elves are on their way to escort them here." Sam nodded. "Come. I will show you to some rooms where you can rest," Arwen said.
"Thank you," Sam said gratefully.
A severe looking Elf with long dark hair walked up to the two women and looked Sam over. "Man na hi?" he demanded of Arwen. (Who is this)
"Na hi nil-ello Aragorn," Arwen answered. (A friend of Aragorn)
"Im Sam," the blonde cut in with perfect Elvish. (I am Sam)
"Show her to a room she may stay in," he ordered and swept past them.
"Forgive my father's abruptness," Arwen said.
"It's okay," Sam returned, staring after him. She followed Arwen to the room she'd be staying in and closed the door. She paused only long enough to remove her weapons and tunic before collapsing on the bed and falling asleep.
You know, writing Elvish is harder than it looks. So there's chapter two. Drop a review and let me know what you thought, but remember, no flames please.