Chapter Six
Looking for Stars
"It'll be alright. I am here…I'm here." Blazing eyes glared daggers up at the crowd forming around them. The group closed in around them and the man reflexively pulled Drifter closer. "I'll protect you. I won't let them near you, I promise." He murmured these soft words into Drifter's ear, somehow managing to calm her from her high level of hysterics. Her sobs had ceased after a few seconds, but crystalline tears continued to stream from her eyes. Her chest lurched like newborn that was trying to learn how to breathe without gasping. Her arms were wrapped safely around his neck in a death lock, and as he held her he could feel her entire body quiver against him.
By now, a decent sized crowd had gathered around them, mostly consisting of the Elves that had been chasing poor Drifter, while there were others who were simply curious. A group of dwarves trailed along as well, wondering what all of the ruckus was about. Lord Elrond then stepped forward upon arrival, looking down at the curious duo. "Boromir?" He seemed genuinely confused, as did most others who were observing the spectacle. Elrond paused, noticing the man's clenched jaw and furious stare. "What is the meaning of this?" He gestured to the duo, still rather befuddled.
The man spoke, his words sharp, "I could ask you the same." There was a split second pause. "I was told that I would receive sincere hospitality upon my arrival, but after seeing what you've done to my little sister makes me doubt that invitation."
Numerous eyes widened, including those of Lord Elrond. "Your sister?" The Elf Lord took a long glance at Drifter, his eyes searching the petrified female as if an answer was to come from her quivering figure. He was rewarded with nothing. "But you are a human and she is—"
Boromir was swift to cut him off, "Family is not determined by the relation of blood, but by the closeness of heart." Silence rang between them while a prominent stirring of whispers danced throughout the crowd at the man's words. For a moment all was hushed until another round of footsteps could be heard rapidly approaching. Four small figures then managed to push their way towards the center of the crowd. Behind them came a tall man, cloaked entirely in grey with a beard to match. The eyes of the hobbits' widened in shock, as did those of the wizard's, but for entirely different reasons.
All four hobbits made haste in closing the distance between themselves and their only female companion. Boromir seemed somewhat startled at this, but said nothing while the little ones began sputtering questions.
Merry's question was the most taxing. "What's happened?" He asked, looking worriedly towards Drifter. She had yet to look anywhere but her brother, and tears were still leaking from her eyes. The half-ling certainly did not like to see his friend in such a state.
"Ask Lord Elrond." Came Boromir's blunt reply, gently tightening his hold on his voiceless sister. Five sets of eyes turned towards the elf in question, each with stares that were marred with anger and confusion.
Pippin whipped around towards Elrond, his eyes blazing and glossy with concerned but livid tears. "What did you do to her?" His voice was just below a holler, which surprised many of the onlookers.
"I did not lay a hand on her little one. But you must take into consideration that there is information regarding your companion's situation that you are unaware of; she is a threat, and I will not have her escape." Elrond replied honestly, his gaze turning hard.
"Perhaps she wouldn't have tired to escape if you hadn't frightened her!" Pippin proclaimed, now standing. The other hobbits exchanged glances as they watched their friend advance towards the Elf Lord.
However, a new voice boomed from the edge of the crowd, causing Pippin to stop while everyone else turned. It was a familiar grey-bearded wizard. "And to try label her as a threat while she is in a such a panicked state would be nothing short of cruel."
A voice nearby retorted. It was a blonde elf whose eyes held firm as he spoke, "But if you let the beast escape its tethers, it will soon be back on the prowl." There were a few nods of compliance with the occasional whisper of opinion.
"With all do respect my Prince, I too would have run from you had I been in her place. In fact, anyone would have." Gandalf looked strangely at ease when he spoke. "It was merely her body's natural reaction to flee from that in which would harm her."
"But Lord Elrond promised no harm would come to her!" Sam bellowed, taking a stand beside Pippin. The crowd began to murmur. They dared to speak so boldly against Lord Elrond? Surely, no good would come of this.
Gandalf once again spoke to calm the stirred crowd. "She has not been harmed Sam. Master Elrond merely frightened her to where she feared for her safety."
The voice of Merry was then heard. "What do you mean by that?" The half-ling made his way to stand beside his friends, continuing to form a small wall of hobbits between the Elf Lord and their petrified companion and her silent, but attentive brother.
The wizard replied, "As I'm sure most of you are aware, there are dark forces that reside within Drifter." Nods of agreement came from all around. "As Master Elrond discovered, it is these forces that protect her. However, when this dark shield is brought down, Drifter is left extremely vulnerable and quite simply, powerless."
"But what made her defenses fall?" Pippen asked, his expression more confused than angered.
"That would be due to the oppressive amount of light magic within this city." Gandalf supplied, "It is a simple matter of the balance of opposites; Drifter is compiled of dark magic, and the elves, of light magic. The two opposing forces are constantly trying to overpower each other, and in this case, the light magic is blatantly overpowering the dark magic. Yet it would seem that Drifter's instinct automatically suppresses the dark magic rather than try and fight the light magic."
"But why would it do that?" Inquired Sam. "I mean, if that magic is her body's instinctive means of self-defense, then why would it just shut down?" With the questions rolling on, tempers were beginning to cool, but the wall of half-lings held firm.
"Perhaps in hopes of skimming by unnoticed to its suppressive counterpart. It is said that there is more safety in stealth and going by unnoticed than there is in engaging in an already lost battle. In a sense, her body dropped into stealth mode for the time being." There were more curt nods of agreement and newfound understanding.
However, Elrond was proving to be stubborn, "If her magic was already so suppressed, then explain the burst of magic she displayed earlier. You above all else must have sensed it Gandalf."
"Indeed. But there is a simple explanation for that: fear." Some onlookers seemed confused. Gandalf continued in his explanation, "I would suggest that the surge of power was her last ditch effort of self-defense." There was another round of nods. "But it was also a simple reaction to the opposite breed of magic which you were obviously emanating my Lord."
Gandalf looked towards the Elf Lord, whose stare was becoming a bit more irate. "And you know as well as I, that as of this moment there is not a single trace of dark magic coming from her. And with the last of her reserves gone, it is safe to say that she can't be labeled as any sort of threat, if even a trouble." Gandalf finished.
Elrond immediately interjected, "Be that as it may, after all she has done I simply cannot let her escape."
"If you won't allow her to leave, then I'll simply take her with me." The once silent Boromir stood up with Drifter still safe in his arms. "She is more my sister than she is your enemy, and if you will not have her, then you most certainly will not have me." Without a moment's hesitation, Boromir turned his back on the Elf Lord and took a step towards the edge of the crowd, set on leaving.
However, a voice erupted from across the crowd before he had even taken two steps, causing Boromir to halt in his tracks. "All corners of Middle Earth must be represented at the council Boromir, and you are the only one who can represent your father." The man looked back to see Elrond standing exactly as he had. Only now the smallest smug smile playing at his lips. The Elf Lord took a few steps towards him, quietly pleased with himself. "And I believe you would have a difficult time explaining to Denethor as to why Gondor would be left to flounder alone during this impending war."
Boromir stood for a moment, weighing his options, which were already greatly limited. After a moment, the man turned back towards the Elf. His mind was set. "I will stay, but my sister is not to leave my sight." He strode before the Elf Lord and his words dangerously clear, "That includes during the council meeting." There was an immediate stream of chatter running through the crowd while a great number of eyes widened. Surely this was madness!
Elrond made a motion to speak, but his words were left unheard as another spoke before him. "I think that's a marvelous idea, don't you Master Elrond?" Gandalf boomed in, as to prevent any further arguments. His eyes danced with a slight uneasiness as he chose his words carefully. "With Boromir watching over Drifter, you can be sure that she won't cause any trouble. Not to mention that having her older brother around would be a good ease on her fraying nerves."
By now, Gandalf sauntered beside Boromir, putting a hand on the man's shoulder. "I'll escort you to her room." The wizard chattered on and Boromir simply let himself be motioned along, hobbits close behind, all while none of them paid any mind to the dumfounded group of elves and dwarves they'd left behind.
After a few moments, the party arrived at the door to Drifter's room. Gandalf spoke to the half-lings as he made a reach for the doorknob, "You four will remain here. Keep watch, and let no one inside. I will be back shortly." He then motioned Boromir in the room, swiftly closing the door as soon as he was inside.
As soon as the door clicked shut, Boromir spoke, "Thank you for—"
"Do not thank me just yet." Gandalf had moved across the room closing all of the drapes, which left the room fairly dark. "While I may have deterred Elrond for the moment, his patience will not last. So, if you will let me, there is something I would like to try." The wizard's staff then began to glow, providing enough light for them to see. Shadows were cast all across the room, and the only real trickle of light came from the crack below the door, which was partially blocked the four pairs of feet on the other side.
"Have her sit on the bed. And I promise, for the peace of mind for these elves and her own safety, this will not harm her." Any doubt that Boromir had been harboring eased up somewhat, and he moved to set his sister down. However, her grip on him only tightened, causing the man to have to sit on the edge of the bed.
"Eina, let go. I'll be right here. I won't let him hurt you, I promise." Boromir's words were soft, and somehow got her to loosen her near death grip on him. While leaning against her sibling, Drifter eventually came to sit beside him. Her hands moved nervously in her lap and her eyes danced around skittishly, almost as if she were trying to hide beside her brother.
For a moment the wizard simply observed her from a comfortable distance, the only sound coming from the sheets as she moved around uneasily. After a moment a soft smile passed his lips. "You're right in feeling weary of me, my dear Wanderer. My magic is just as opposing to you as theirs', is it not?"
"Not as much, sir." Came her quiet response. A soft smile broke out across Boromir's face to hear his sister speak in a tone that wasn't purely drenched in panic.
Gandalf chuckled, calmly moving towards her. Her eyes shot to the floor as he stood in front of her. "My dear, look at me. Your reaction here will not be the same as it was with Elrond." The light from his staff suddenly lowered, and the visibility was reduced to just enough so they could scarcely see each other's faces. She tentatively raised her head to look him in the eye.
Their eyes met and Gandalf smiled through the dim light as her eyes widened in surprise. "You see, while I may have my magic, mine is my own, and is different from that of the elves." A look of relief washed over her face and she visibly relaxed. "Just as magic is also your own."
At his words, her eyes feel to the floor, looking ashamed. "Yet I have absolutely no control over it."
Gandalf's eyes sparked to life, "And that is where I come in." He took a gentle step towards her, causing her eyes to peek up at him. Much to the siblings' surprise, Gandalf released his staff and kneeled down in front of the hesitant Drifter. His staff magically remained standing, still emitting a soft glow that was cast faintly about the room. "There is something I would like to try to help you gain some control over these volatile powers of yours. And I promise, it will not harm you in any way."
Their eyes were locked for a moment as Drifter searched his stare for any sign of deception. After a moment she tentatively gulped but nodded, earning a small smile from the wizard at her acceptance.
It was then that Gandalf gingerly brought his hands up, with his thumbs resting just below her hairline with the rest of his fingers placed gently on the top of her head. Drifter instinctively tensed, moving towards Boromir.
The man spoke, worried for his sister, "And what exactly are you doing?" Both of the siblings were noticeably tense, but before he could get a response, the tips of Gandalf's fingers let out an incandescent light, causing both the wizard and man to squint.
In reaction to this, Drifter's eyes shot open, immediately beginning to bleed black from the inside out, her mouth open ever so slightly in shock. Long forgotten words of magic suddenly began to sprout from Gandalf's lips as the light around his fingertips intensified. As the light grew, the black in her eyes melted away to a white just as bright as the magic around them. A few anxious seconds passed before the light died away from both Drifter's eyes and Gandalf's hands, leaving the room dimly lit by the mere glow of the wizard's staff yet again.
As soon as the light diminished, Gandalf grabbed his staff and stood up, beginning to stride across the dark room in a swift fashion. "Now tell me my dear, how do you feel?" In a single motion he flung the drapes open, allowing waves of sunshine to pour into the room.
It was if a whole new world had been let in. Birds chirped, the wind danced, and the smell of fallen leaves lingered in the refreshed air. He turned back towards the siblings; one who was looking at him with squinted eyes while the other's back remained towards him in astonishment.
Drifter's eyes were wide, lips still parted. Soft blue-grey orbs were now in the place of the once blackened pits of her eyes. "I feel fantastic." She turned towards the wizard, whose figure was haloed by the afternoon sunshine tumbling in behind him. Drifter offered him a full-blown smile. "I can't even find the words to describe it. I just feel… lighter." She then let out a stifling yawn, her eyes squeezing shut at the same time.
Her brother was smiling besides her, and spoke towards the wizard, "And just what sorcery have you blessed her with?" Drifter leaned comfortably against Boromir, who looked to the wizard, patiently waiting.
A pleased smile had made its way across Gandalf's face as he plodded back towards them. "The kind that brought her levels of light and dark magic closer to equilibrium."
A new voice piped in, "It did what now?" The door was suddenly cracked open and four hobbit heads peering in towards them. One set rolled, another glared, and the third looked just as befuddle as the last. The door widened father, allowing four heads to be revealed. Pippin, who was laying flat against the floor, looked curiously up at the taller beings in waiting. "Well?"
Gandalf restrained a laugh, "Never have a met such a peculiar group of hobbits."
"We may be peculiar but at least we show interest, unlike most hobbit-folk." Merry defended. One of his hands was now pointing out in clarification, the other keeping him propped up above his friend.
Boromir laughed in good humor. "Interest, or perhaps a bit of overindulged curiosity."
"Overindulged indeed." Gandalf agreed, chuckling along with him. "But to answer your question, you first must understand the balance of opposites. For instance Yin and Yang; both are polar opposites, yet one cannot survive without the other. Such are the ways with magic." Gandalf looked towards Drifter who was now dozing on her brother's shoulder. He let out a soft laugh before continuing, "In Drifter's case, one magic was overpowering the other to a point where this balance was disturbed, leaving her with little control over her abilities."
"So you cast a spell that gave her that balance back?" Sam asked while leaning above Merry and Pippin. He held the doorframe to keep himself in place above his friends without falling on top of them.
"Not complete balance, but enough. She will have to discover true balance herself. Such equilibrium can't simply be magically repaired." There was a moment's pause, "But in a sense, yes, I restored some of the balance within her."
"But how? Just what sort magic did you use?" Frodo asked from the top of the hobbit totem pole. His eyes were still ablaze with curiosity and nearly poured with unanswered questions. In between the reply, Pippin muttered something about having a shoe that was mercilessly crushing his tailbone. Merry shushed him as Gandalf made a move to speak.
To this, the wizard cracked a grin. "A magician never reveals his secrets."
Pippin let out an exasperated sigh, "Of course!" He made a quick motion to stand, obviously forgetting about those around him. In seconds, there was a pile of hobbits in the doorway, all haphazardly sprawled out on top of one another, groaning and laughing in between the occasional slew of profanity.
Gandalf laughed again, shaking his head while catching the swinging door before it hit the wall. "Now come along hobbits. While I won't tell you precisely what I did, I'll let you in on a little secret." All the hobbits immediately recoiled off the ground and stood around the wizard, unconsciously holding their breath in anticipation. "The spell makes the one who's been charmed exceptionally tired, so I believe it would be best if we left Drifter to sleep."
The hobbits all let out an exasperated sigh as the wizard began to usher them out of the room. Frodo looked back to see Boromir pulling the covers up over his sister. She lay still, obviously already lost to sleep while her brother closed the drapes, still allowing some light to trickle into the room before he made his way back towards the door. Just as he strode out of the room and closing the door behind him, Pippin scoffed, "Well that's a grand secret, now isn't it?"
"Knowing the after effects of the spell and simply observing it being cast would be enough for a wise man." Gandalf chided humorously.
"I am not exceptionally wise, nor am I a man, neither in which I am ashamed of." Pippin said as-a-matter-of-factly. He nodded once in confidence before beginning to stride down the corridor. The others laughed a bit at his comical behavior, hearing him talk over his shoulder. "I don't know about the rest of you, but I'm starving. All of this running around and talk of magic's made me hungry."
Sam snorted, rolling his eyes at his dear friend as the three remaining hobbits began to trail after him. "Is there ever a moment when you aren't driven by the pull of hunger?"
"Yes, but unfortunately it never lasts very long." The hobbits then continued to chatter away as they moseyed along. Frodo stalled, noticing the man and wizard had fallen behind. He looked at them curiously, but Gandalf motioned him on. Frodo's brow furrowed in confusion and wonder, but nonetheless, he obeyed and continued after his friends. As they watched the group of half-lings disappear around a corner, the two turned towards another, still hovering outside the room.
Boromir was the first to speak. His words were horribly blunt. "So what did you really do, wizard? I have seen the extremities of her abilities, and I find it hard to believe that you could have so easily suppressed them."
Gandalf sighed, the carefree humor now gone and replaced by truth. "Everything I said was true."
"But it wasn't the full truth." Boromir remained vigilant, his words stressed. "I feel as if you left out a few crucial details."
"I will admit, you've caught me red handed." The wizard put his free hand up in defense. "And as her brother, I will give you the truth. But that is also why I still swear to you that this will not harm her."
The pace of his words quickened, tone demanding. "Then what will it do?"
Gandalf was silently astonished at the display of emotion Boromir was showing; he truly cared for this girl… perhaps even in a way that even she couldn't fully comprehend. The man's eyes sought nothing other than answers and from the look he was giving him, Boromir would be damned if he was given anything but the truth.
And so the truth Gandalf would give him. "While I have restored some balance within her, I only managed to cleanse a portion of the tainted magic." The wizard began to walk slowly down the corridor, Boromir striding along beside him.
"You speak as if it is poisoned." Boromir's voice was now much more controlled, as were his steps as the walked quietly along the expansive corridor.
"Because that's exactly what it is." Their eyes met. Boromir's gaze bemused, while Gandalf's harbored a quiet dread.
Yet the wizard pressed on. "I can tell you right now that the original state of magic within her was light. Possibly the purest I've ever seen. To discover that was surprising to say the least, but to imagine it has been so tainted—"
"Hold on, what do you mean by original state of magic?" Boromir suddenly questioned. "Are you saying that she did not always have such dark powers?"
The duo continued to stride along, not really taking note of the changing scenery around them. A brisk wind flew around them, tussling the leaves off the trees. "Yes. I believe that this black magic was given to her."
"But how, or more, why would anyone curse another with such dark power?" The idea of someone cursing his younger sister did not appeal to Boromir. His stomach churned at the mere idea.
Gandalf's voice was once again laced with muted trepidation. "How is simple; all you need is someone with the all right resources and all the wrong motives." His voice dropped to an even more dreaded tone. "But why; that is something even I do not wish to try to comprehend."
"So you truly think that she was cursed?"
Gandalf nodded solemnly, gazing absently out over the Elvin city. "In a sense, yes. But remember, 'was' is a form of past tense; you must keep in mind that she is still cursed Boromir. Do not forget that. It would take much more than a single spell to release her from the hold the black magic has on her."
"Then what good was the spell?" Boromir snapped quietly.
Gandalf sighed, knowing this was difficult for him to hear. Nonetheless, he continued. "The spell is crucial because it has muted the dark magic within her for a time. Elrond will notice, which will put him at ease, while also giving her time to gain control over the remaining magic naturally." He looked back towards Boromir, whose expression was bleak. "All we can do now is hope that she manages to find the natural balance within herself or..." The wizard bit his tongue, knowing he'd said one too many words.
"Or what?" The man asked, his voice sounding uncharacteristically feeble. A pained smile draped across his face as he gazed outward. His eyes were seeking answers to questions that, as of this moment, had no solution.
"Or she will eventually return to the volatile state that we all know and fear her for, only worse." Gandalf meandered along the edge of an overhanging balcony, Boromir trailing behind.
"If that was such a risk, then why bother with the spell in the first place?" Boromir's voice began to rise with each word.
Gandalf looked towards him, his gaze firm, but still withholding calmness. And strangely enough, a look of hope glimmered in his eyes. "Because I have faith in her." At these words, Boromir was taken aback, truly surprised. The wizard looked towards him. "And as her brother, you should as well."
Boromir could only manage a quiet, "Yes," as he mulled over all the wizard had told him. Both of them stood along the edge of a balcony over looking the Elvin haven, each lost to their own thoughts.
After a moment, a gentle smile ebbed its way across the wizard's face. He spoke gently, his words almost as soft as the breeze around them. "I couldn't help but notice that you called her Eina." Boromir blinked a few times, looking momentarily confused before nodding, having returned from his thoughts.
"Ah, yes." A peaceful smile of his own quickly broke out across Boromir's face. For the moment, all the worry for his sister had been pushed aside for a more endearing recollection.
"It is Elvish for 'happiness'." Curiosity danced in the wizard's eyes, for now he looked to the younger man for answers.
Boromir's eyes shone brightly, his gaze lost to a beautiful memory only he could see. "Exactly." Boromir must have sensed the wizard's confusion and continued, a peaceful smile still gracing his face. "Before I saved her, my father, brother, and I were a rather pathetic excuse for a family, which was obviously due to my mother's passing. But then this girl came into our lives and somehow, against all odds, managed to mend the broken tethers of our family and bring us back together. In a sense, she restored us of our happiness." He let out a quiet laugh. "So needless to say, we found it to a befitting name for her."
Gandalf quietly observed the younger man, who was once again drifting back to old memories. Another gentle breeze floated along, and each man sighed as it passed. Gandalf once again turned, leaning against the balcony rail while falling into a passive stance. "It is indeed a befitting name. But do not be surprised when she remembers another name for you to call her by."
Boromir's brow furrowed, turning towards the wizard. "What do you mean?"
"Without the dark magic there to conceal them, her memories will begin to return." The wizard pushed off the rail, both of his hands placed on his staff. Somewhere off in the distance, a voice was singing. The melody was quiet, but light and full of mirth. "And with her memories, perhaps her true name as well." The wizard began to walk along once more, Boromir following in step beside him.
"How soon before she starts to remember?"
"Yet another question I cannot answer. It could a few hours, days, or perhaps even months. But when this happens is all up to her." The duo continued to meander through the city, "And once she does, I have a feeling that she will come to play a large part in this oncoming war."
There was a near instant reply from the Brother. "My sister will have nothing to do with this war."
"And what will you do, lock her away?" Gandalf peered towards Boromir with a look of knowing. "You cannot decide her fate for her, she must walk that path on her own. And whether or not you allow it, I feel as if she is not one to stand aside at let those she loves get in harms." He let out a quiet chuckle, "At least, not without her there to defend them."
Boromir sighed wearily, coming to stop while rubbing the back of his neck. The grown man suddenly looked like a child, helplessly confused about what to do with this situation he was given. Gandalf could only smile at Boromir's genuine concern for his sibling.
The wizard rested a hand on the man's shoulder. "Have faith in her. She's full of as much bark, as she is bite." Boromir managed a nod, letting the wizard pull him towards a particular path. "But now we must be off. Seeing as how you've arrived, we can proceed with the council meeting."
"Then I must wake Eina. I will not go back on my word." He began to turn, but Gandalf's grip remained firm on his shoulder.
"After the project of such a spell, she will need much rest. Leave her to sleep. She will be well soon."
Once again, Boromir let out a sigh, and allowed the wizard to pull him along. "I'm starting to think you planned it all to turn out this way." Boromir shook his head in a confused, but humored manner, "But why, I can't even begin to understand."
The wizard chuckled, "And you never will." With that, the two walked along, a casual silence drifting between as they headed off to the meeting.
All had been beautifully quiet. No sound was made, and she was strangely at peace. But then she heard it again, creeping back into her mind. First there was a loud pound throughout her subconscious, then traces of dark words. The blissful peace she had been joyously lost in had been disrupted as the gnarled voice returned.
"Ash nazg durbatulûk"
The words turned whole and they burned her ears to hear. The malicious murmur had slithered out of the darkness to torment her yet again. With each passing word a mantra began to parade across her mind.
"Ash nazg gimbatul"
The words grew steadily louder, pulling her from her peaceful sleep and into a disoriented mess. She thrashed at the sheets as she tried to escape the tangled encasement around her in attempts to subdue the voice.
"Ash nazg thrakatulûk"
She struggled against the sheets, still half-asleep as she tried to deny the black speech from wooing her subconscious into doing something dangerously unorthodox. Her skull began to pound. Her eyes flickered to a dark blue behind masked eyelids.
"Agh burzum-ishi krimpatul!"
She let out an enraged yell,and just as soon as it was there it was gone. The voice had vanished away to silence once again, leaving Drifter in a cold sweat. She took a few deep breaths, still extremely groggy. She kicked the sheets back over her so they weren't nearly as strangling and plopped her head against one of the many pillows behind her. A deep sigh escaped her lips as she rolled over and quickly feel back into a deep sleep, unaware of the eyes watching over her as she slept.
"Will she wake up soon?" A soft voice spoke, some paces away.
Another replied from a bit farther off. "In good time." Beneath her eyelids, she blinked in confusion.
"I hope that happens sooner rather than later." A third voice finished, seeming to just enter the room. Well if that wasn't good dose of déjà vu for her, she didn't know what was. Perhaps everything that happened before had been a dream? Carefully, she opened her eyes, hoping for a different scenario than the first time she awoke.
Upon first glance, the scene sent a wave of relief through her. From her room's balcony, Drifter saw the same beautiful she-elf from the woods, looking just as serene standing under the glow of the morning sunlight as she did under the darkness of night. Gandalf was wandering aimlessly about the room with one arm swinging methodically at his side while the other grasped his staff. And as her eyes moved towards the door, she saw her brother enter the room, eyes slightly impatient, but as gentle as always.
She let a soft smile ebb its ways across her face; definitely a more preferred scenario. She let out a stifled yawn, earning looks from all of the other occupants of the room. Without hesitation, her brother was the first to her side.
"Little Eina." A hand gently brushed the side of her face, sitting on the bed beside her. "So you've finally awoken from your slumber."
"How long was I asleep for?" She inquired, her grey-blue eyes as a curious as always as the gaped up at her brother.
An aged voice spoke this time, "Four days." Drifter's eyes bugged out at this, but the wizard continued from his seat. "But don't be alarmed by it. Extended amounts of sleep is a common side effect of that spell. And to make sure you were alright while you slept, Lady Arwen volunteered to watch over you when your brother could not." Upon mentioning the lady, Gandalf gestured to the she-elf who was now standing beside him. She offered her a quiet smile and nod.
Drifter sat up a bit and returned the gesture, "Thank you for watching over me. But if you don't mind me asking, why are all of you here? I mean, I highly doubt it takes three people to watch over someone who's sleeping."
It was in innocent question, yet their reactions to her words came off as unexpected. Boromir clenched his jaw, Gandalf sighed, and Arwen's eyes fell to the floor.
The Lady was the first to speak as she strode back towards the balcony. "My father is proving to be stubborn in having you stay in the city."
"Your father?" Drifter inquired, now sitting up.
"Lord Elrond." Gandalf answered. Upon mentioning his name, Drifter's fingers instantly clenched the sheets in a slight death grip. A small 'oh' was all she could manage.
Gandalf nodded, "Oh, indeed." The wizard looked towards Drifter, "I have tried everything to sway his thoughts, but no matter what I suggest he aptly refuses." The wizard stood and then paced slowly about the room, coming to let out a sigh as he returned to his chair. "And I have run out of options." The room was silent for a moment, the only sound coming from the outside. Birds chirped their annual melodies and leaves danced quietly as they were brushed from their branches.
Gandalf suddenly looked up, his face enlightened. "I've just stumbled upon one last idea. Boromir, I will need your help in convincing Elrond." The man looked somewhat puzzled, but hopeful and got up from the bed. He smiled down to his sister before heading out the door with the wizard close behind him.
"I wonder what he's thought of." Drifter chimed quietly, leaning back against the pillows in wonder.
"Whatever it is, I hope my father agrees to it." Arwen said, now standing beside the bed. Drifter nodded in agreement. "He's been unreasonably hardhearted about this situation."
"He's just trying to do what he believes is best." Drifter added quietly. "I can't really blame him." She let out a quiet laugh. "I'm not exactly what you'd call the common houseguest."
"Be that as it may, his actions are still unacceptable. Just because he fears you does not excuse his behavior."
Drifter cast Arwen an incredulous glance, "I know he does not trust me or my magic to say the least, but I do not believe that is enough to have him fear me."
Arwen met the eyes of Drifter, her expression soft. "It is not a fear of your powers that frightens him so, it is the fact that you sought to kill his daughter."
A heavy silence lingered between them until Drifter regained her voice. "What do you mean? I have met you but once before in the woods. That is hardly any reason for me to want to..." Drifter shifted uneasily, suddenly bringing her hand to her head. An abrupt pound erupted within her skull and a slew of dark images were unveiled from the dark recesses of her memories.
Drifter drew a sharp breath, sinking further into the bed. Her hand dropped from her hair, and her grey-blue eyes opened with new insight. "I saw it all… again," she murmured, "that night, in the woods." There was a strained pause, Drifter's expression somewhat sour as she debated whether through to fight through her sudden bout of cottonmouth or just swallow it and remain silent.
She decided to speak. "And the morning when I chased after you." Drifter's expression melted into a look akin to the face a small child who had lost their way in the dark of the woods. She pulled her legs towards her chest, placing her head on the tops of her knees. A broken mumble came from the distressed female, "How can you even stand to be near me?" Words laced with self-loathing and disgust continued to fall from between her teeth. "I sought to kill you, and yet here you stand before me. How can you do this?" She was appalled at her own words. "I am surely some sort of monster." Her pale hand gripped tightly around her legs, her posture closed and tense.
Arwen hovered at the bedside, sitting down after a moment. One of her hands lifted from her lap and hovered like a hesitant bird, unsure of its intended perch. Fingertips then carefully graced raven locks as Arwen let her hand fall on Drifter's shoulder. "Unlike my father, I do not believe that it was you that sought to kill me. I believe that whoever holds the key to unlocking your memories is the one who wanted to kill me. Why, I cannot rightly say, but whoever they are, they are no longer the one who commands you." By now her voice was exceptionally gentle as she tried to pull Drifter from her depressed state. "Be at ease, for now the black fog has been lifted from your mind and your memories will begin to return."
"But this is such a dark thing to remember. And what if there are more memories like them to come? I do not wish remember such dark things." Drifter sighed as her voice trailed off.
A quite, and almost immediate response came from the she-elf. Her words were soft, but clear, in both their sound and meaning. "Yet if you only see the night as darkness, you will forget to look up and admire the stars."
There a slight turn of her head. A sign of quiet recognition, partnered with a look of consideration. Drifter lifted her chin to her knees, eyes lost in a moment of remembrance. She sniffled once, and nodded, silently coming to agree with Arwen.
Arwen smiled gently, rising from the bed in a single fluid motion. She floated across the room, "Now, I believe you have spent quiet enough time in bed." She pulled open the wardrobe, rummaging through an assortment of gowns. Drifter relaxed from her constrained pose, resting back against the pillows as Arwen chattered on. "And hopefully my father will consider, if not accept Gandalf's new plan." The she-elf soon pulled out a soft blue dress, draping it over one of her arms before walking back towards the bed.
Drifter flung back the covers and swung her feet off the bed. "Do you have any idea what that plan is?"
"I honestly don't know, but we shall find out soon enough." Arwen gestured for her to stand. "Now, let's get you cleaned up and I'll escort you around the city. I'm sure there's a group of hobbits lingering about who'd love to see you now that you're awake."
At the mentioning of the hobbits, Drifter's face broke out into a beaming smile. She stood from the bed and trailed behind Arwen, silently grateful at the opportunity to freshen up. Her blue nightgown brushed softly against her ankles as the two she-beings walked the short distance from the bedchamber to the baths in a quiet but passive silence. Both of them were pleasantly content with the silence, as well with one another, finding no need to speak further as they walked through the sunlight halls.
Everything had been going rather smoothly since she had awoken. The bath was by far it's own good dose of medicine, and the meal she and Arwen had shared was full of friendly conversation and delicious food. The only slight downsides were the looks Drifter was receiving from nearly every other elf they encountered. However, Arwen told her to keep her head held high, and do her best to ignore them. Both of them knew that any response of hostility would instantly be reported back to Elrond, and the last thing Drifter needed was a reason for him to lock her up and throw away the key. So the two of them walked in stride with on another, now heading towards one of the city's many gardens.
"I wonder where those hobbits have run off too." Arwen laughed for a moment. "I'm surprised that Merry and Pippin haven't run into any new sort of mischief." Arwen led them under an intricate stone archway, taking them outside.
Drifter smiled beside her. "I'd have to agree. They're all rather curious, at least more so than most hobbits. Not to mention exceptionally good at popping out when you least expect them."
"You've got that right!" From both sides, Drifter was wrapped in hugs. She wobbled for a moment, startled by the sudden appearance of the jubilant Merry and Pippin. Arwen grabbed her arm to steady her, laughing at the crazed and exceptionally startled look on Drifter's face.
"We're so glad you've woken up!" Merry exclaimed, stepping back after a moment.
Pippin nodded in compliance, "Yes! We were starting to wonder if you'd been reduced to some sort of vegetable." His tone and expression were enough to send them all into a bought of uncontrollable laughter. He looked confused, "What? What's so funny?"
"Ahh Pip, you are always a hoot." Merry said, wiping a tear from the corner of his eyes.
"There is no other like him." Arwen said, regaining her poise, but still smiling brightly. "But now, do either of you know where Frodo and Sam are? I'm sure they'd like to know that Drifter is awake as well."
"We'd love to show you two lovely ladies where they are." Merry held his arm out to Arwen. She laughed, taking it before walking along with him down one of the gardens many stone paths.
Pippin mimicked his friend, only going one step further. "My dear lady, it would you allow me to be your escort on this lovely afternoon?" He bowed deeply before offering her his hand. His expression was suddenly suave, and accented with a charming smile.
Drifter laughed yet again. "I'd be honored good sir." And so she took his arm, still laughing quietly as his unusual, but humorous behavior. "Lead the way."
They meandered through what seemed like endless sea of late blooming flowers, all in which were exquisite and beautiful. Around them trees were morphing in color, but the grass beneath them remained predominately green. The air was dusted with the hint of autumn, but the air was still comfortably warm as the group wandered along. The stone path was clear-cut, made of flat white stone as it scoured a path through the beautiful garden.
Drifter was in awe the entire time, which Pippin seemed to notice. He was soon babbling about the flowers, the trees, and even the best places he'd found to take naps. Drifter laughed, still blown away at the serenity of the Elvin garden. Her gaze left a cluster of white flowers and looked ahead, seeing two familiar curly haired hobbits sitting under a large apple tree. Frodo seemed to be reading some sort of book as he rested against the base of the tree, and Sam was picking up the fallen apples, already having a large number of the vibrant red fruits in his arms.
From a distance Merry hollered, "Hey, fellas! Look at who's finally decided to rejoin us!" Frodo and Sam looked up from their separate tasks at the voice. Sam instantly dropped the dozen apples in his arms, and Frodo practically tossed the book to the ground as both of them sprinted towards the newcomers.
And as before, Drifter was enveloped in a surge of hugs and joyous cries of happiness. After a moment, everyone parted. "I'm so glad you're finally awake!" Frodo said, stepping back with a beaming smile that easily stretched from each cheek.
Sam nodded, looking momentarily worried. "I was starting to wonder if whatever voodoo Gandalf had cast had done more harm than good."
From behind them, an aged voice bellowed, "Voodoo, master Gamgee?" The group turned to see Gandalf walking towards them. "Perhaps I should use more of my voodoo," he spoke the word facetiously, "and change you into a toad." Sam visibly paled while the others just laughed.
"Oh come now Sam, you know he's only joking." Drifter said in between fading giggles as to leave her friend with some his dwindling pride.
"Indeed," Gandalf chimed in, "and while the look on Master Gamgee's face is quite amusing, there is something I must tell you." There was a pause until all remaining snickers had subsided and all eyes were on him. Once these requirements were met, the wizard spoke. "Master Elrond and I have finally come to an agreement regarding Drifter."
There were numerous exclamations of relief and happiness, but as it quieted, Gandalf further explained. His words sent looks of shock across everyone's faces. "Specifically, he has agreed to let her accompany the Fellowship on their journey."
"What?" Arwen sounded sincerely bewildered. "I know my father, and he would not so easily have allowed this." She raised an inquisitive eyebrow at him, wondering at just what magic the wizard had conjured up this time. "Just what did you bargain with my father to reach such an agreement?"
Curt words followed, "Our conversation started with me merely suggesting she join the Fellowship. I thought that since her brother would be there to watch over her along with everyone else that Master Elrond would agree. I even brought Boromir along to have him further help me with my argument." He paused, chuckling momentarily. "Although he wasn't too keen about it when I first told him."
"Why was he against the idea?" Sam asked. "I mean if it's the only option left, then you can't be too picky."
Gandalf nodded in agreement. "That's exactly what I told him. Granted, the idea of his dear sister being sent on a potentially life-threatening quest didn't appeal to him, he begrudgingly accepted once I told him this might be the only way. Luckily for us, Master Elrond agreed."
"So I'm to join the fellowship then?" Drifter added simply.
Gandalf sighed, his expression somewhat bothered, if not more irritated than anything. "Yes, but there is catch; before you are officially recognized as a member of the Fellowship, you must pass a set of trials." As if sensing the oncoming questions as to why, he continued. "Master Elrond requires this because," he paused, letting out a woeful laugh, "he wants to ensure that you are capable of being more than just a burden."
A boisterous eruption of voices suddenly broke out, each beginning to fume at the insulting suggestion. "Drifter can handle herself perfectly well! We've all seen it!" Pippin said, looking to his friends who were swift to agree.
"She's protected us countless times from the wraiths!" Sam began, throwing his hands up in exasperation. "That should be enough in itself!"
Merry interjected, "And she helped us out with the whole Strider situation." The others nodded once again.
"Yes, that too." Sam said.
Frodo continued, "But who is he to suggest such lowly things of her when he doesn't know anything about her to begin with?" Frodo spoke out, blue eyes blaring in quiet vehemence.
The wizard seemed just as flustered as the half-lings. "That's precisely why he wants to test her skills; he has not seen them himself, therefore he wants confirmation by seeing them first hand." His lips pursed together in recollection, "I tried to convince him that she was perfectly capable of doing all of what would be required of her. Boromir tried to sway his thoughts even more so than I, seeing as how this suggestion was also a blow to his teaching abilities. But Master Elrond simply would not have it." The wizard sighed. "And so she is to face these trials to appease him."
"But what will happen if she can't pass them? Not that I'm saying you won't Drifter, because I have complete faith in you." Sam quickly sputtered the last part out, earning a little giggle from Drifter at his verbal stumble. "But what then?" He asked again.
"We will cross that bridge when we get there." Gandalf responded firmly. "For now, we must have faith in our friend and give her our support." The others spoke out in agreement, with Pippin reaching out and giving Drifter a hug.
"Don't worry, we'll cheer you on from the sidelines." He looked up to her and smiled, and she beamed right back at him, returning the hug.
"I'll do my best, you can count on that." Drifter said, with eyes blaring. The rage she had felt moments ago had ebbed away to a look of determination that was just as fierce. "So when do the trials begin?" She asked, a smile beginning to creep up the corners of her mouth. She would enjoy making a fool out of the Elf Lord.
Gandalf looked at her, his ageing eyes easily catching the new fire her gaze was harboring and couldn't help but smile. Perhaps this would go well. And perhaps, she would be able to prove her worth, while maybe humbling the ignorant Elf Lord as well. Gandalf couldn't help but smile along with her.
"Tomorrow."
Disclaimer: I don't own InuYasha or Lord of the Rings.
All you need is someone with all the right resources, and all the wrong motives.
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A full blurb about my extended hiatus and this chapter will be on my profile for those who are curious. But please review. It makes me more willing to update knowing that not only do people bother to read this story, but are willing to take the extra effort to write a legitimate review (those with constructive criticism are even more welcomed). Thank you for reading, and I hope you enjoyed.
Until later