Chapter 3: Among New Friends
Elrond smiled slightly at the guests, repeating, "Welcome," as they drew nearer and stood just before him on the steps. "I see the worry etched upon your faces and wish to ease that," he continued. "Frodo has just left my care and now rests in one of the rooms. He arrived just in time, I must confess." Aragorn looked at Elrond uncertainly, his eyes shifting to Laura. Elrond caught the expression with ease. "Do not fear, Estel. We are amongst friends here." He then looked over each of the beings before him in turn, his eyes, admittedly remaining the longest upon Laura.
"You have traveled far and are in need of rest," he said, noticing the looks of anticipation in the hobbits' eyes. Calmly, he gestured for an elf woman to approach. "Please lead the guests to our available rooms, preferably ones near to Frodo." Aragorn led the way up the steps, the others following him. As he passed the Elf-lord, Aragorn bowed low, to which Elrond nodded curtly in return. The hobbits looked at him wide-eyed, noticing right away that by his figure he demanded respect. Sam made a quick attempt to bow as he passed. Laura was last to ascend the steps as was prepared to bow in greeting to Elrond as well, but stopped as he addressed her.
"Before you depart to your chamber," he said, raising a hand in gesture for her to halt, "I wish to have a word with you." Laura nodded in compliance, and sped after Elrond as he walked her through the halls of Rivendell and brought her to an office. I am definitely not in Kansas anymore, Laura thought as she followed the Elf-lord. Elrond walked to the back of a desk, murmuring, "Close the door, please," as he took a seat. Laura obliged, shutting the door soundlessly behind her, then stepped farther into his office. "Take a seat," said Elrond, gesturing to a vacant chair with his long slender fingers. Laura once more did as she was bid, but did not speak a word.
"Now," he began, resting his elbows upon his desk and clasping his hands. His tone in itself spoke authority and seriousness. "I believe you know who I am. Is that so?" Laura nodded, getting the impression that she was being scrutinized by his cold eyes.
"Yes," she finally said quietly, getting the use of her vocal cords back, "you're Lord Elrond Half-Elven." Elrond blinked, but said nothing for a moment more. Eventually, he continued.
"Please, tell me your name." No mirth or joy was held in his eyes, but Laura could sense he meant well. He had been through many trials in all his years of living, the finding of the One Ring would be his greatest obstacle to overcome and required the utmost seriousness, so she did not take his bluntness as offense.
Despite the feeling of the situation, she felt a bit more comfortable speaking to Elrond about herself compared to Aragorn or the hobbits. Yes, Strider was a loyal, trustworthy, understanding, etc. but the woman could not help but feel he was more prone to suspicions and closed-minded, unlike Elrond. The Lord of Rivendell would take her story and give her a chance to support herself, therefore she did not hesitant in replying.
"L-Laura Bradford," she stammered. It was difficult to stand firm under the steely gaze of Lord Elrond. He nodded slowly, as if assuring himself of whether she spoke the truth.
"Yes…," he mumbled quietly, his eyes glancing down at his desk momentarily. In unexpected rapidness, his eyes landed on hers once more. "Well, Laura, I also believe you know who Frodo is and what has happened to him." Once again, Laura nodded, feeling completely certain it was better to first tell Elrond of who she was, but by his questions it seemed he already had some vague idea. "Tell me who he is then and why he is in my care." Laura knew he was simply testing her, but saw no point in lying to Elrond, therefore, coughing once, she began.
"He's Frodo Baggins of the Shire. He's the nephew of Bilbo Baggins, and is now the Ring-bearer. He carried the One Ring of power from the Shire to Rivendell, and Gandalf the Grey has been helping him too. He's under your care because he was stabbed on Weathertop by the Witchking of Angmar. The sword used was poisoned. Aragorn, or Strider as he's dubbed, has been leading Frodo and the others here from Bree, as well." Elrond nodded thoughtfully. Yes, her description was clear and correct to the last detail. He had been receiving word from Gandalf for a period of time, as well as the few allies in the land.
"That is correct," said Elrond. "I see you know more than you have experienced, for you were not among the hobbits for a long while, only recently you joined them I believe." Elrond spoke more to himself than Laura at the time. He allowed silence to lapse for a few minutes, his mind in obvious thought. Then, at length, he spoke again.
"I can also see by your clothing that you are not of lands near here," he commented, his eyes taking in the sight of her garb, "and I know for a fact you are not even of this world." His stern eyes came to lock on her emerald orbs. A reaction of shock and surprise played across her features, but she said nothing. "You know of what is to happen in Middle-Earth and exactly what is currently happening." He was not asking a question, no, he was stating to her, but nonetheless, Laura nodded in agreement. His eyes stayed upon her as he spoke, not letting a fleeting expression pass across her face unnoticed. Laura managed to keep his gaze, though could not help the feeling of nervousness that climbed up her spine when under the piercing eyes of Elrond. That feeling was mixed with one of curiosity and confusion. Elrond took note of the expression and smiled slightly at the girl in attempt to ease her
"Allow me to explain," he said, relaxing to a certain degree. He sat back in his chair until his back came to rest against its wooden frame. His hands, although, remained entwined, and his expression taut. "I know of you because of a prophesy made many centuries ago. This prophesy was not made specifically about you, but of a person designated to help Middle-Earth in a time of darkness. To put it simply, I believe you are that person." Laura looked on the Elf-lord with utter interest, finding his words fascinating. "It was made by the Lady Galadriel of Lothlorien," he continued after a short length of silence, "who has the gift of foresight, the strength of which far surpasses my own," he added. "This prophesy stated that during a time when Middle-Earth was covered in the darkness of Mordor, a being of a different world would arrive. They would know the future of Middle-Earth, thus having the power to balance the rift of good and evil that has so long been weighted. Now, that being could either balance the scales by helping destroy the darkness with their knowledge or put favor towards Sauron and thusly destroying Middle-Earth." A hint of a shadow passed across his eyes, but slipped away as fast as it had appeared. He spoke in a purely business-like manner as he went on.
"Some time ago, I spoke to Lady Galadriel and she gave me warning that the Shadow was spreading. Her prophesy, she said, would soon come to pass. I was to watch for the arrival of a being that did not look of this world, but from another land. I could determine this by their appearance, by their speech, by their reactions…." Laura looked somewhat dumbstruck, unconsciously proving Elrond's point. "I did not base my conclusion of you on having simply seen you approach me as I greeted you, although. No. I have scouts that roam the forests near here and report back. They had noticed your arrival and I was pleased to hear you had met Aragorn and were traveling here with him. They explained you to appear 'other-worldly'" He took a moment's pause before continuing.
"That is how I knew of your arrival, and that is solely all the information I know of you. I must warn you however," his tone dramatically becoming grave, "you shall not be returning to your home. The Valar have sent you here in attempts to balance the scales and not have the Shadow dominate once and for all. Upon your birth, this was chosen as your Fate, and therefore you shall remain in Middle-Earth. All the trials you have labored through in your past life were to strengthen you for this one life-changing event. I cannot caution you enough as to how one choice on your part could change the outcome of Middle-Earth for the ages to come." Laura visibly gulped, nodding cautiously as she took in the sternness in which Elrond spoke, though her mind was filled to the brim with Elrond's words. Noting how seriously she made her reply without words, he lightened his tone somewhat. She understood how great a task she carried; he could see so in her eyes.
"Since you shall be remaining in Middle-Earth and Rivendell for the meantime, I recommend you try to get acquainted with Middle-Earth, but through your interactions be sure not to mention your knowledge of the future. It could prove a hard blow if someone were to know your purpose here. They could attempt to take advantage of you, or in the worst case, mention your existence to the Enemy, thus endangering yourself and all others you might know. As long as you remain silent concerning that fact, you should be safe for the present." His tone had regained its graveness for a brief moment, but returned to being simply stern. A slight smile creased his lips.
"Might I also suggest that you attempt to rid yourself of your dialect and go through a change of wardrobe? I think it would be wisest to give the impression that you have always lived in Middle-Earth. If one of the guests here were to ask where you hail from, the North would be a suitable area, and if they were to ask your purpose in Rivendell, claim you were asked to come here by my invitation." Laura nodded obediently to Elrond, seeing it best to do as the Elven-lord said. Confusion and regret lingered in her expression however, for the information revealed to her came as a shock. She was never to return home…never to see family…friends….again. That was her "old live" as Elrond had called it, and apparently Middle-Earth was the start of her new one. Elrond smiled compassionately to Laura, standing from his seat as the interview, so to speak, was over.
"Welcome to Middle-Earth, Laura. I hope your stay in Rivendell is enjoyable, and look to seeing you here as the days progress." Laura stood from her seat as well, bowing low to Elrond in utmost respect. "There should be someone just outside the door to lead you to your room. Receive some rest, and overcome your shock and grief. I know what I say must be difficult to understand. Garo tinnu vaer." He nodded his farewell, his palms resting against his desk as he watched Laura turn to leave the room. Her hand just mere inches from the door, he spoke once more. (Have a good night.)
"One other thing, Laura." The girl turned and looked to Elrond curiously. He had regained his taut expression, his steely gaze returned to his features. "I am holding a council in a few days' time to deal with the present situation." He did not need to clarify, for Laura understood immediately what he spoke of. "Many are to come from different realms in representation of their people. I would like to have you there as well, concerning your knowledge. You need not say anything, only listen." Laura nodded for what felt like the twelfth time that evening, and a glimmer of happiness came to Elrond's features. "Thank you," he said, sitting at his desk as he looked to the girl. "You may go." The woman made no response, but instead turned, her face void of emotion, and slipped through the door into the Elven-lord's halls.
Laura slept peacefully, her eyes closed in content as she lay comfortably on her bed. Light filtered beneath her eyelids from a window and she let out a low moan of protest. Grabbing a pillow sleepily, she pulled it over her head to block out the dreaded light of the sun. A sharp knock was heard against her door and she grumbled, pulling the blankets tighter about her.
"Go away..." she growled. The visitor was persistent, however, and the rapping continued, louder and more frequent. Her anguish increased and the woman immediately sat up, shielding her eyes from the blazing morning sun that swept into her room. "Let me sleep!" she near shouted, her eyes squinted tiredly. The expression did not last long however, as a gasp escaped her lips. She looked about the lavishly adorned room she occupied.
The cream-colored walls glinted brilliantly in the daylight as specks of gold leaf reflected the magnificence of the morning sun. Gold trimmings ran along the walls bringing a delicate beauty, a delicate touch to the room, one that could easily be shattered, or so it felt. Within the room a hand-crafted oak armoire, desk, and dresser rest against the light walls, drawing in some color and depth. Pale green vases and pottery that contrasted lightly against the softened walls stood out beautifully adding more to the Elvish atmosphere the room portrayed.
The bed Laura lay on held the same colors and feel. A creamy white was the color of the sheets, gold and light green inlayed to bring out a lighthearted feeling. The bed frame itself matched perfectly with the other pieces of furniture, made in the exact same style and of the same oak.
What completely captured the woman's attention, however, was not necessarily the exquisite room she found herself in, but the view which met her outside. Two doors stood open on the wall across from the bed, a balcony in plain sight. Just beyond the wooden rail of the balcony was a breathtaking sight of Rivendell. The entire Elvish realm rest just outside in all its spectacular magnificence. To wake to such a spectacle every morning, Laura realized, must give you the feeling of being in Heaven, in an absolute paradise, for at that specific moment, that was exactly what she felt.
The entire sight of it all jarred Laura back to reality. She was not at home in her own bed, as she had originally thought prior to opening her eyes; she was in Middle-Earth, in the House of Elrond. It was no dream…it was real. Shock began to sink in and the memories of the evening before returned. She had spoken to Elrond, than after their conference she had been led by one of the servants to the glorious room she was in. Without thought, she proceeded in undressing and slipping into a nightgown provided. Her mind had been filled with surreal, wild thoughts, ones that took every bit of her concentration. Her thoughts had been whirling haphazardly with all that Elrond had told her: a prophecy…never returning home…knowledge of the future…and above all Middle Earth! A place she had always believed to be fiction, a world only known in tales, and yet it was real. The full shock of it had hit her the evening before and it was hitting her once more.
Laura breathed heavily, her eyes looking wildly about her, taking in the sight of the room for the first time, but more importantly, trying to comprehend exactly what had been said to her by Elrond. Her thoughts had been straightened out due to sleep, now it came to believing and understanding the revealed information. Her mind was absorbed in her thoughts, but the rapid knocking finally penetrated, gaining her attention. Her head turned sharply to the two large oaken doors she assumed led to a corridor. The visitor stood just outside those doors.
Her mind jumping to something similar to an automatic mode, she leapt from the bed, and noticed the state of her dress. A simple lightweight nightgown was all that clothed her. Her bare flesh felt the delicate material, bringing on a sense of nakedness. Realizing her obvious discomfort, she ran to the wardrobe and threw open the doors, catching sight of a robe. Speedily, she whipped the robe from the wardrobe and threw it about her shoulders, tying it about her waist as a final act. The rapping by now had grown sharper and more agitated, but at last, the Laura was ready.
"Come in!" she called hurriedly, recalling that Elrond recommended she try and speak like others of Middle-Earth. She would have to try and drop her slang; something she hoped would not prove too hard. In stepped an Elvish maiden, a maid by the looks of it. Dark hair flowed gingerly down her back and a smile graced her face.
"My lady," she said kindly with a curtsy to Laura. The woman merely frowned, unaccustomed to such actions. "Lord Elrond bid me tell you when the morning meal is to take place. He would enjoy your presence there." Laura simply nodded, finding nothing worth saying in response. The Elvish woman continued. "It is to take place in an hour's time and it would be well that you dress for the occasion. Some dresses now hang in the wardrobe there." She pointed with long, slender fingers to the wardrobe Laura had just recently opened. Laura looked over at the beautifully carved oak piece and nodded.
"Yes," she replied quietly, nodding ever so slightly as she spoke. The maid curtsied again, having followed her orders. Laura was still lost in her own thoughts, but heard as the Elf spoke again.
"Allow me to draw you a bath, my lady." She gracefully walked across the room to another door Laura had not noticed before. With a fluid motion, she opened the door to reveal a large marble tub there, again light and grainy in coloring. A smaller wash basin lay on a table within the room. "I have heard that you traveled here with Lord Aragorn and his companions," she continued, walking into the bathing chamber and readying the tub. "I suspect that you would wish to cleanse yourself then." Laura remained rooted to her position, watching the Elven woman with keen eyes, but hardly speaking a word. Finally, however, given the situation, she replied.
"I suppose you are correct. The wild is most definitely not the cleanliest of places." She struggled to hold her tongue concerning her normal speech patterns. When she had opened her mouth, she could feel her lips longing to form the words, 'Yeah, I guess so. It's definitely not clean out there.' It took a bit of restraint to keep from speaking in slang and contractions. She managed however, and breathed in relief as the Elvish maid smiled, not suspecting Laura for a foreigner.
"I shall prepare your bath then, my lady," she said, sweeping out of the room altogether to go and retrieve some buckets of warm water.
The bath was warm and peaceful, seeming to wipe away Laura's worries. The day itself went by relatively uneventful and equally as peaceful; Middle-Earth just took some getting used to. Gradually as she spoke, the woman became more accustomed to the speech patterns of the people, and began speaking just as well as them. No one suspected her of being of another world, bringing a certain sense of comfort to her.
A few days passed and Laura found herself growing even more at ease. She would go usually and speak to Aragorn and the hobbits during the day, finding content in the innocence and lightheartedness of Pippin and Merry. Oftentimes she would find herself on walks with them, laughing and listening to their jokes. Sam would join them only rarely due to his worry of Frodo. According to Merry and Pippin, he much preferred to stay by Frodo's side and care for him. A feeling of admiration for Sam coursed through Laura at hearing of his dedication to his master and she approved his actions wholeheartedly. For the times he did join them on their strolls, she often wondered why he did not just return to Frodo's side due to his constant mutterings of worry. It was usual to be coming from Sam, although, and Laura was pleased to see how he had warmed up to her during their short stay in Rivendell.
A sharp rapping was heard against Laura's door and she hardly had time to call out when two hobbits bounded into the room and jumped giddily on the bed Laura had previously been sleeping soundly on.
"Frodo is up!" yelled Pippin cheerily, a large grin on his face as he revealed the news to Laura. Merry sat on the bed beside his younger cousin with an equally large grin.
"Just woke up this morning!" he added, looking happily at the bleary-eyed Laura who had just been woken rapidly from her peaceful slumber.
Alternate Opening
Elrond walked the five guests through the halls of Rivendell and brought them into an office and repeated, "Welcome," as he sat down at his desk. Strider spoke as he placed his hand to his heart and bowed, as is elf fashion.
"Lord Elrond, glad I am to have come home again."
"Yes, welcome back, Estel," Elrond stated to the ranger. His voice was strong and serious; truly portraying his royalty and power. His face looked somewhat grim, worn by the moving years, yet his face was still fair to look upon and you could see gladness lingering in his eyes. He turned to look at the hobbits.
"Ah, you must be Peregrin Took, Meriadoc Brandybuck, and Samwise Gamgee." The hobbits' mouths gaped open and eyes widened at this elf, who they had just met, knowing their names.
"Yes, I know of you and I know Frodo shall be fine; he only needs time," he said laughing, merriment shining in his eyes. This seemed to rarely happen. "But, currently he is resting."
He looked at each of the hobbits' expressions, but then his gaze turned to Laura. He smiled slightly; his eyes knowing and understanding.
"Laura Bradford. I have been expecting you."
Now it was her turn to have her mouth gap open and eyes widen. He had been expecting me! she thought. He can know the hobbits; they are from here, but me! I'm not from this time period, and Elrond knows who I am! How can this be? Elrond's gaze lingered on her a moment more, before he turned to the whole company as he stood.
"You must have had a long journey. Arwen will show you to your chambers. Until tomorrow."
"Good day, Lady Laura," Arwen greeted after she had brought the others to their chambers. Her raven brown hair flowed down her back, much like her father. Her beauty surpassed that of any Laura had known; eyes sparkling and dazzling in the light. She completely understood why Aragorn loved her so; Laura could look into Arwen's eyes and see the same love and compassion that was in Aragorn's. She moved gracefully with faint footfalls. "Follow me," she said as she approached Laura.
She brought Laura down the corridor and stopped in front of two huge oak doors. She opened them and inside was the most beautiful room Laura had ever seen. Inside was a queen-sized bed, the blankets green and gold, each made perfectly and to one side of the room stood a hand-crafted armoire, the carvings made to the smallest detail. She ran over and opened it; there were dresses of every type and color inside, all beautifully stitched. She closed the doors, than walked over to an adjoining room; it held a large tub and a basin for washing up. Bottles lay on a table nearby, each containing a shampoo or soap for washing. She ran back into the main chamber, Arwen still standing by the doorway, smiling. In her excitement, Laura hadn't noticed a balcony leading from her room. She ran onto it a beheld an enchanting view of Rivendell. The entire realm lay before her eyes. Her eyes remained there for a few minutes until she turned and walked back into the chamber. When she beheld Arwen, she wore an overly joyful smile, her eyes dancing with merriment. Arwen smiled in return, amused at Laura's glee.
"Oh my, Arwen, this is more than I ever expected. Thank you." Arwen laughed happily at Laura; her excitement was unimaginable.
"You are welcome, mellon nin. I shall take my leave if nothing else is needed." (my friend) When Laura did not respond, she turned around, about to leave.
"Before you leave Arwen," Laura quickly asked, "could you tell me how long it has been since Frodo arrived?" Arwen turned once again, to face the young women.
"It had been three days and he is fully healed. Unfortunately, scars shall remain from the wound; they will never fully heal." She sighed, but continued, "Gandalf the Grey and many others had arrived shortly before you. They are here at my father's bidding; a council is to be held tomorrow. Aragorn and Frodo shall be attending. Is there anything else you wish to know?" she asked politely.
"Yes, one more thing. Could you please tell me where the gardens are, for I have a desire to walk through them? The beauty of Rivendell astounds me."
Arwen smiled once more and told her where they were, then took her leave. As soon as Arwen had left, a maid entered, wondering if Laura would like her to draw a bath. Laura agreed; a bath was surely what she needed. The maid drew her bath and assisted Laura in washing herself. The elvish shampoos smelled so wonderful; some like the forest and others like flowers. When Laura had washed, she went to the armoire to choose a dress; a blue one caught her eye. She pulled it out and was dazzled by its simple beauty. It had a decent cut neck line and long, flowing sleeves. The maid assisted her in dressing and when she saw herself in the mirror, she was amazed. The dress fit her perfectly and made her look gorgeous. It curved and flowed down her body just right. The maid, seeing her task was finished, curtsied and left the chamber. Laura just pulled a brush through her hair once more, to smooth it out. Then she looked at her reflection again, and left her chamber.
She found her way through the winding corridors and eventually came upon the gardens she desired to walk through. They were the most beautiful gardens Laura had ever seen; living in the woods in her cabin had given her a liking of nature. Every flower you could imagine was here; including many Laura did not know. As she looked at the flowers, she found herself thinking about what Elrond had said. Why was he expecting me? she thought. How did he know about me and who I was? I'll have to speak to him later. She noticed a beautiful little flower among all the others and looked at it intently. It was very simple, yet to Laura it was the most beautiful flower there. It had white delicate petals and looked as if it would fall apart if she were to touch it.
"Simbelmyne," a melodious voice said from behind her. "It grows more commonly in the realm of Lothlorien, but Lord Elrond brought some flowers to Rivendell because of their simple beauty."
Laura turned and saw an elf walk towards her. He had flawless skin; it looked to made of porcelain. His silky blond hair flowed down past his shoulders. Brilliant blue eyes looked at her, seeming to look into her soul; they were not as hard and stern as Elrond's, yet they were serious and strong. He had seen many horrible things, but seemed to portray a royal air about him. He looked like that of a warrior, yet not, at the same time. He seemed more caring and understanding than a regular warrior, like Aragorn was. Actually, he seemed very much alike Aragorn. A green and brown tunic with brown leggings and black boots is what he wore. His voice was calm and soothing, like that of a river falling over a waterfall.
"I see I am not the only one who sought peace in the enchanting gardens of Rivendell," he said, politely.
"No, you are not," Laura replied smiling. He smiled in return and introduced himself.
"I am Legolas of Mirkwood," he said with a bow.
"I am Laura Bradford," Laura responded, nodding. Legolas furrowed his brow in confusion. Laura frowned at this.
"An odd name…Laura…, I have not heard it before, yet it is beautiful all the same. Is it common to be named so where you hail from?"
"Yes," she replied laughing, now smiling again. "The name is very common."
Legolas smiled and picked up her hand, brushing his lips over her knuckles, saying,
"Tis a pleasure to meet you, milady."
"Likewise, my prince," Laura replied as he stood again, smiling. Legolas raised an eyebrow in curiosity.
"How did you know I was a prince, for I had not said so?"
"Lady Arwen had told me," Laura lied. He couldn't know where she had come from.
"Ah, I see." He paused, but than continued. "Dinner is to begin soon. Would you like me to escort you thither?"
"I would be honored," Laura replied, blushing, as he offered his arm.
"Nay, milady, the honor is mine."
She hooked her arm into his and they left to go to the Dining Hall.
Hello again, old readers. I am afraid that is all I ever wrote of the revision. I have not updated it to 2011; I left it as I wrote it in 2006, making a few minor corrections. I hope you enjoyed this bizarre little throwback, and I want to thank you for all the reviews and kind words you have sent me over the years. It was only for you that I wrote.