Disclaimer: I still don't own anything that has to do with the LOTR series. Go away lawyers. Oh and in Ch. 3 I made a reference to Savage Garden's song "I Want You". Yep, don't that wonderful song either… get away from me lawyers… *Pokes them away with a stick*

VULGAR LANGUAGE- like the F and S word.

NO BETA! I NO USE BETA OKIE? But it is pretty good that you can make sense of it yourself. I know my PUNCTUATION IS BAD. If you would like to help me, PLEASE PM ME with a link to help me out. Please only review what you think of the story. :]

Sorry about this chapter. It's slow and it is long. This just happens to dive into the relationship that Gandalf and Elena share. So sorry if you think that Gandalf is OOC. I'm pretty bad into getting into thought patterns lol.

This is strictly POV only- First it is Gandalf, then it is Elena.

Since it is POV, there will be FRAGMENTS! After all, people's thoughts don't normally form complete, essay form thoughts. That'd be just weird. Lulz. You know the drill.

I'll give some shout outs to the reviewers. :D

Diana- Thanks. I'll keep updating. Yeah, once I get this fic outta my head, I'll fix it up and replace the chapters with cleaned up ones. I do want to keep it realistic. Don't you just have moments where you yell at the TV, books, fics, movies, etc. and just think to yourself, "I would have done that way differently." =P

With Grace and Courage- Like the penname. Good thing I'm updating right? Thanks for calling my fic awesome. :D I hope you're still reading. ;]

Secret Moon Princess- I'm flattered that you would call my fic being epic so far. Yes, lucky Layla is having it pretty easy compared to Elena right now. I'll try to make it a wee bit harder for her, but I think in a more comical "Lorien-first-world" problems lol. And we'll see what happens with Haldir later on. Is he gonna be "killi"/"killy"? I see what you did there… XD And yeah. Layla is childish, but that's what adults do sometimes. These are girls that basically consider camping as heading out to a national park where there is still a cabin, a general store, a car, and yes… electricity and indoor plumbing. They are only admin assistants. :P I hope I'll make Elena's appearance in the next chapter good. Hehe.

Pretty-little-liar-girl70- Lol I'll keep updating as much as I can. I do enjoy psyching out the characters. :P Thanks for the compliment to my fic. Eff yeah… :P

- I'll list in the author's notes up top in this area. I feel if I list it in the middle of the story, the reader might miss out on the flow of things. If I forget to list it, my bad. .

EGilly- I hope you'll like the direction of this story. I'm trying to make it a little different, even though I know this kind of plotline has been overdone, but I thought I'd give it a shot. Heh heh. Yes, they are together, and read on how they will interact with the Fellowship.

Thank you to the others who have amazingly silently favored and started following this fic. I very do much appreciate it and I am flattered.

Now let's do this.

"Snoogins."- Jay

Chapter 4: Can I Relax Now?

"Gandalf look out!"

I had shifted my sight, and at excellent timing and reflexes, I had moved away from a sword strike and Elena leaned forward just missing it. Shadowfax was aware of such movement, that I feel his muscles being flexed and rushed, and speed is being increased.

"Damn it! I wish we had some fire! The Nazgul are vulnerable to it!" She whips her head toward me and my eyes could only focus on hers, showing me the fiery symbol of Sauron. Fear had been instilled in me. Could the Dark Lord see us? Hear us? Elena would surely feel something if he was communicating with her…

Now the situation at hand…

I continue swinging my sword blocking every strike. They are striking hard, that I see sparks fly from our clashing blades!

"Come on Shadowfax! You can do it!" She holds onto his mane and avoids the hands of the Nazgul. "Leave me alone!" She yells. "Back you treacherous beings!" I swing my Glamdring blocking every attack they were engaging us in, but it seems, recognizing all of their patterns, they are wanting me to be either distracted or to be thrown off of Shadowfax to remove Elena from my care!

"Get away from me!" A Nazgul's hand was on her arm, trying to pull her off of Shadowfax's back, but I had contact with another of the Nazgul. I extend my other arm, holding my staff to push him away, and unleashed a small flame from it, setting the Nazgul soldier on fire, and Elena removed her hooded cloak that the Nazgul was clenching.

"Whoa Gandalf! You gotta do that again!" I'm having difficulties though because of my distractions of avoidance of steel to our skin, and having a watchful eye on Elena!

"I am afraid… I cannot! I am preoccupied with other matters that require my attention!" I was able to say as I pushed off another Black Rider, but then another one clashed with me immediately.

Then I noticed it. Lines of fire coming toward our direction!

"Holy shit!" As fast as the fire lines came, they had struck a Black Rider. That utterly dreaded scream had sounded, and it fell back, catching fire quickly.

"Gandalf! Another one of those arrows are coming our way!" She can see it!

"Shadowfax! Verge to one side to force the Riders to group!" Elena shouted to Shadowfax, and he made a noise, signaling that he obliges. As predicted, when we had to speed forward, we became the lead in this chase, and when Shadowfax moved to one side, the Nazgul we following us in a cluttered line, and three more had been struck!

"They have begun to fall back!" Such screaming is so dreadful! Elena covers her left ear, due to the sensitivity of the gurgling howls of pain from these Riders.

"They're leaving! Woo hoo! Yeah! Fuck those guys! But ow!" Elena shouted with cheer and raising her other fist a few times. I finally rest my arms by putting away my Glamdring and placing my staff under my arm, holding onto it. I placed my hands on her shoulders and give her a good shake and a scolding! "What have we talked about using such foul disgraceful language!" It is not rhetorical…!

"Waah whoa whoa! I get it! Sorry! Stop shaking me!" I swear, I feel as though I'm turning into a father taking care of her! Such stressful responsibility. First Middle-Earth, and now this young lady.

"Alright. I'm glad that you learn. But who was it helping us in our time of need?" I remove my hands from her shoulders and I fix my hat. I see a white steed with a figure riding out.

"Gandalf who is that?" We continue to ride out toward them. "I think that's the guy who shot those fire arrows at the Nazgul. Is he cool though?" I now know what she means when she says cool in this context.

"I believe so." We ride up to him and I recognize this elf. "Quickly Elena. Hide your ears with your hair and leave your eyes closed! Open them once you feel as though your eyes are normal." I fix her hair quickly and push it on her ears. "It's okay Gandalf. My eyes aren't hurting anymore, but are they back to normal?"

I look back to her eyes and I smile. I can conclude that once the Black Riders are gone, her eyes return to her childish brown ones. I still try to fix her hair as I see the mysterious rider coming and us closing the distance.

"Hey come on! I can do it!" I use my hands to try to make my hair at least presentable to our hero of the night. I was looking down fixing my ends and then I hear:

"Glorfindel. I haven't seen you in ages. How are you?" I look up to Gandalf and he smiles and I whip my head to see our hero for the night.

I laid my eyes on the very first elf I have seen and met. His hair is such a bright, shiny blonde, and he has the fairest skin I have ever seen. So clean and clear… and needs no control whatsoever I bet… Elves being so perfect and all. And he glows such a soft light… I was in awe of his appearance. He has such a slim frame, but I can tell he's tall and strong. It shows through his brown tunic outfit. It's similar to mine, but masculine. His blue eyes are enchanting… his facial expression right now to me, is that he is making a soft smile to Gandalf and then me.

You know, you barely… I mean barely see him in the movies, even though he is in the books more, but I'm glad to have some interaction with this guy.

"Yes, it has been quite some time. I have been looking for you for the past few days. I have been alerted by Lord Elrond's foresight that you were being followed by the Dark Lord's Black Riders."

"And we whole-heartedly express our gratitude with your help. Quite the excellent timing you have arrived. They were not planning on leave us any time during that chase."

"And who is the elleth that you have with you?" Glorfindel then turns to me again. His eyes locking on mine. Shit, I know what 'elleth' means, and what that means to me, either I didn't hide my left ear good enough, or I smell like an elf. I hear Gandalf clearing his throat. I think he's nervous too.

"This is Elena. She and I have been traveling together for some time now. We are on our way to Rivendell."

"Hi there. It's great to meet you. As Gandalf says, I am Elena." I did a little bow… I don't remember if elves shake hands or not. Glorfindel takes his right hand and puts it over his heart and then extends it out to me. I shouldn't use greetings like they do here in Middle-Earth… what the Hell would I say? 'I'm Elena, daughter of Maya and Juan of Mexico?' Whatever!

"Greetings Elena. It is a pleasure. I am Glorfindel of Rivendell." After his greeting, he raised an eyebrow. "Elena…hmm… seems to be a little of an odd name for an elleth. It seems more of a name for the Race of Men. Where do you hail from?"

"Um…" Oh fudge popsicles… never made a background story…

"Let's talk about this once we reach Rivendell. Let us be gone from this area, for in case the Dark Lord may send out more assassins out to us.

The golden-haired elf simply turned his horse around to face out towards the direction of where we need to go. So we began riding out.

We didn't say much once it hit daybreak. I remember not to talk about my situation out loud to Gandalf because elves have such amazing hearing… as I remember from that screechy gurgly sound that the stupid ass Nazgul did…

Gandalf let me sleep, or at least tried to rest my eyes and body, on Shadowfax whenever the horses were walking. We had a long night. I can hear them talking though, so I guess my fake sleeping is pretty good…

"Where does she hail from Gandalf?" Glorfindel questioned. I wish I could open my eyes to see their expressions.

"All questions concerning this elf will be answered when I speak with Lord Elrond. I am afraid that I cannot answer any questions concerning Elena until we reach Rivendell. I don't want anyone to have an presumptuous thoughts about her until he and I make it clear to all."

Awwww, Gandalf has my back.

I hear the elf sigh. "Alright Gandalf. Knowing you, you shall not talk if you do not wish it." Accepting defeat so easily? Jesus… if it were back in LA, you wouldn't be able to avoid the subject with my friends. They'd be trippin' balls and dick with asking a ton of questions and think of witty comments to get you to talk while talking about how stupid your secrecy is.

Ahhh… good friends… I miss them…

I sigh in my 'sleep', but I don't get up just yet. I think I'm better off leaning on Gandalf than lowering myself onto Shadowfax's neck.

I am so lazy! I stay 'asleep' for a while and I decide to get up for what seems like, a little late afternoon, eveningish.

"Welcome back. How did you sleep?" Gandalf pats my back. "It was okay. Thank you for letting me rest up."

"It was no problem at all, Child. Get some peace while you can." I just smile and stretch out my chest and arms.

"Are we any closer to Rivendell yet?" I said while rubbing my eyes. When I was done, Gandalf I think examined my face, more like my eyes. I just smiled and winked. He chuckled a low toned one.

"What is it that you are both laughing at?" Oh yeah. Elf-Dude is still with us.

"Oh, Elena has a disgusting habit of unleashing saliva while she slumbers. She had a little river of it trailing out of the corner of her mouth." Gawd damn it Gandalf!

"Gandalf! Don't embarrass me!" I wipe the heck out of my mouth. Okay so I do have a problem… My mom has been mentioning it to me for a long time now…

After I was done, I hear this amazing sound, it I turn to see Glorfindel having a soft laughter as well….

Are elves just so fucking perfect? That kinda pisses me off… maybe cause I'm a little bit of a hater too…

"So ungraceful, but it is adorable." Oh jeeze. I just blush and just look away.

"What…ever! But thanks, I guess…" I just smirk and turn back to him.

I felt like I was just the subject of teasing for a couple of days. Gandalf would tell him stories of how 'ungraceful' I was then retaliating with how scruffy Gandalf looks when he wakes up in the morning.

"And he gets mad at me when I say something stupid!" I laugh and cross my arms, pretending to pout.

"Well someone has to make sure you are socially acceptable." Gandalf smirks and I just roll my eyes.

"You both seem as if you were father and daughter or very good friends." The elf of the group couldn't help but to smile along with us.

Gawd, we just can't stop smiling! Heh. I do that to people…

"Yeah, I guess you could say that. He's been like this since he found me." You know… now that I think about it… he has been like a dad to me…

"And she has been a burden ever since! I have adopted a child whom I don't have the heart to be rid of." Gandalf just pats my head and I just stick my tongue out in my silliness.

"I told you I'd be stuck to you like an excellent adhesive!"

"I admire your relationship. I also haven't seen an elf with so much energy and such a connection to an Istari. It's quite inspiring." Damn, this elf is just full of compliments. I wish more men back home were this respectable and honest.

He's really nice though and not a bad looker. I wonder what the other elves look like…

We continue riding for the day, and Glorfindel sharing his stories about Rivendell and even some when he was fighting a balrog back in the First Age.

"Wow Glorfindel! You are seriously… seriously brave! I can never do that!" I was seriously wowed by this guy… er- elf! I mean, he's brave, and he has absolutely no scars whatsoever.

I know this guy is absolutely amazing, but I guess I do wonder sometimes why he didn't join the Fellowship later on. I think something about, even his powers wouldn't do, or Gandalf told him not to, or Legolas was already representing the race of Elves or whatever. You know what though, if he's amazing enough to battle it out with a Balrog, maybe it is best he stays behind in case he has to protect Rivendell or something.

We had been traveling non-stop with the exception of one night because I practically begged just for a few hours at least to actually lay down and sleep. They both called a name… I forgot what it was called, but I know it wasn't nice… calling me a wuss or whatever. Then it happened. Again…

Last time I knew it happened when Frodo was in Bree… this time, I knew he was at Weathertop, just a few days behind us. When it happened in Bree, at the Prancying Pony, when he had the ring on at the bar. That's where I saw him on the floor just scooching away, and then he saw me, or I saw him and we froze. I waved and he waved back. It was odd… I was the first to say hi and he didn't say anything. "My name is Elena. I'm really a nice girl when you get to know me. Please don't be afraid. I'm just… well, you won't believe me now, but I'm just an ordinary girl. Please believe me." I kneeled before him and he relaxed a little even though this world is so grey, scary, and dark… I was scared shitless. "I'm here, and I will try to help you as much as I can. I may be no one to you right now, but I will help you. Please believe me." He just nodded to me. I hoped he trusted me back then too. "Please take off the ring Frodo, and believe me, you can trust Strider." He didn't say anything to me at all, but he nodded again. "I'll do my best to help and maybe even protect you… until next time." I think I heard a nervous 'thank you'. Then he took off the ring, and I was pulled back into darkness and opened my eyes to see the Istarian.

Gandalf said I was only out for a few minutes and then I came back as if it was nothing. We still don't know why I was actually able to see Frodo.

After that quick memory, I completely passed out… Last thing I felt was the soft short fur and long haired mane of Shadowfax and hearing Gandalf and Glorfindel yelling my name.

I woke up from wherever I was off of the ground and I already see him running.

"FRODO!" I see him turn running and I run toward him. The five remaining Nazgul are already ganging up on him. "Get away from him you freaks!" I stop to stand right in front of him while he curls up on a rock trying to scoot away.

"Elena please! Run away! You can't do anything here!" He spoke to me this time.

"No! I try okay! I'm trying to but you some time!" I just run toward the riders, and I don't know why, I can try to push them away, but the shitty thing is that they aren't budging at all and the weird thing is they aren't trying to harm me. Is it because I'm the vessel? I keep trying but they aren't moving. I go back to Frodo. "Frodo! Take off the ring! Please take it off and run!" I'm just trying to move the Witch-King away, but he isn't doing anything to me until he takes the sheath of his sword and with a powerful push, he sends me flying to another rock where I actually hurt myself on my shoulder. I could sense blood is trickling down.

"Ow!" I hiss in pain. I can actually get hurt here? But my body isn't even here!

"Frodo! Take off the ring and run away! I'll see you soon!" But he was just there like a deer in headlights. Then the Witch-King used the morgul blade and stabbed him… Frodo screamed in pain.

He yells in pain until the Nazgul leader took out the blade. "NOOOOOOOOO! Frodo! Take it off! Please!" I was too late. I thought I could have stopped Frodo from getting hurt so he wouldn't have to suffer that wound for the rest of his life…

"Elena!" He yells to me and he looks toward me huffing and groaning in pain. He looks like a scared in child… Then I see that white figure fighting off the former kings. It's Aragorn! "Frodo quickly! Take it off!"

"Will… I see you… again!?" He struggles to reach for his hand to take off the ring.

"Yes! I promise! Take the damn ring off!" I just pointed at him and he did.

Everything… my vision went black, and I felt I physically opened my eyes only to be met with the brightness of the sun annoyingly greeting me. I see the faces and torsos of Glorfindel and Gandalf… When did they get up in the sky? Oh wait…

I use my hand to block the brightness of the sun of my suffering eyes. "I'm okay. I'm fine." I struggled to get up, but I felt so sore. I felt the assistance of the both of them going under my arms to help me sit up, to what I'm assuming is the ground.

"You had terrified me Elena. Did it happen again?" I guess Gandalf already knows what happened to me. Glorfindel looked at us both in question.

"What just happened here? I don't understand what just occurred here. What do you mean it happened again?" He looks to us with worried eyes.

Gandalf hands me his skin pouchy thingy so I can get a swig of water. "I saw the Ringbearer. He just got stabbed by the Morgul blade by the Witch-King. The remaining Nazgul found them on Weathertop… I couldn't protect him. When he took off the ring, Strider was already fighting them off. He'll be in good hands. I know it." I wanted to throw or break something really hard. I couldn't protect him at all. Was it fate or my weakness that still got him stabbed?

"This is utterly wrong. So dreadful." Gandalf stood up. I know he's stressed. Poor Frodo… I tried… but I'm just an administrative assistant. I have nowhere near the skills built for this sort of thing. I was pretty fucking crazy already trying to get in the way of the Nazgul!

Glorfindel help me up but as I used the arm that Gandalf was on the side of, I felt pressure of the pain and I see the bloodstain that is on my tunic. "Gandalf, she is hurt!"

"Oh fudge'ems. I really did get hurt." Well, I don't want to take off my tunics or anything. Might as well just tie something on top to… oh… Glorfindel beat me to it.

"There. This should hold until you get to the House of Elrond." He tied a simple cloth strap around my arm so it wouldn't bleed anymore. "Thank you. I very much appreciate this. I really do." He just smiled at me. "Please. Think nothing of it. I was sent here by Lord Elrond to assist the both you." I smiled back to him. He was readying his horse, Asfaloth. I then started to walk over to Gandalf as he was staring out behind us. "Gandalf, after the stabbing, he's going to live. I promise you. Lord Elrond will heal him in time. In the meantime, we have to get to Rivendell. I have to keep up with the fates…" I whispered with that last part. I patted his back and he looked down at me and just nodded his head. "Yes… you are right. You must keep the future as stable as possible."

I started at him with sad eyes. "I'm sorry I couldn't protect him. I'm so sorry…" He just nodded his head again and placed a hand on my shoulder and went to Shadowfax.

I walked over to Glorfindel as he got back onto his horse. "I need you to do me a huge favor…" I started to pet Asfaloth. "Both of you."

"What is it?" He questions me, but I can see the skepticism in his eyes now. I guess this is what I get since Gandalf and I haven't told him what's going with us…

"Please find four Hobbits and Strider. You know of the man of whom I speak of. They are fleeing from Weathertop right now. Among the hobbits, one of them is very much hurt. Please find them and bring at least Frodo to the safety of Rivendell. I'll explain everything and tell you the truth once I see you in Rivendell. I promise you. The truth is all I have in payment to you. Plus, I guess if you have any chores for me to do for you, I can help you out." I smiled with anxiety because I don't know if he really believes me this time. He did raise his eyebrow when I mentioned Strider. I didn't want to call him Aragon in case somebody is nearby who can hear us.

"I trust you are of good character, and any friend of Gandalf the Grey is a friend to the elves. No need to do my work, but the truth is all I ask for. I will do this for you and seek them out." He places a hand on my shoulder. "Please get to Rivendell quickly and seek a healer. I will see you in a fortnight."

"We will see you in Rivendell, and don't be late. I would like to see if everything will be alright with the young lad." I turn around and there was Gandalf on Shadowfax. He extends his hand to me and this time, I'm riding behind him. Good… I'll drool on him some more when I sleep!

"Mithrandir, you have my word, I will bring the hobbit named Frodo to Lord Elrond in time. I will depart. I wish you both a safe journey." He then gallops away urging Asfaloth to ride with haste. I wonder… in the movie it's Arwen who gets to the group… in the books, its Glorfindel... Did I make it the book's path just now for sending Glorfindel? I'm so confused on which path this future is going to be!

"Gandalf, are you mad at me?" Shadowfax starts to gallop as well. I guess we shouldn't lose any time when it comes getting to Lord Elrond.

"No I am not. I am only distressed about what you have told me about Frodo. I do believe you when you say he is going to be fine, and I have even thought of the possibility of us going back there to find him as well, but we need our rest as well, and I feel as though, I know, that you know, that they will be safe with him. Another reason why we cannot go back, because that is just another chance for the Nazgul to try and take you away. With you having no fighting skills whatsoever, I and the other two cannot guard the four hobbits and you." That's true. I believe that. This is a search and rescue mission for the hobbits and not a search and destroy for the Riders. "We shall keep going this way. I can see that we still have about two weeks until we get there. Possibly sooner if we take less to no rest."

"Let's get to it then! I can't wait to meet everybody! Lord Elrond, Arwen, Ar—Estel, and then may be the twins! Holy fuck. I'm gonna meet the hobbits!" I snuggle and nuzzle Gandalf's back in my excitement! This is better than meeting the actual actors, because whether you fall in love with the characters of a book in this case the movie, you don't fall in love with the actor… it's… duh! The characters themselves!

Oh what a world I have been living in now!

Uh-oh. I'm in trouble. He just told Shadowfax to stop galloping. Now the Horse Lord is merely walking.

"Language Elena! Goodness! No one is going to ever want to travel with you if you keep this terrible habit of yours. How can one say such words of taboo so easily in whatever mood you are in? It just means you don't have sufficient vocabulary to fully express yourself." I feel through his back that he scoffs.

I just smirk as I lean on his back, one cheek pressed on his back. "Gandalf, believe it or not, I do understand that my certain word choices can offend others, but they don't kill you. Back in my world, there are still plenty of people who are offended by it, so I don't use it with them. But there are also plenty of people as well that find it perfectly fine. To me, the words are perfectly fine to express almost any mood that I'm in. In my world, we use them in songs, books, and in speech when appropriate. I use it among my friends, but more of the lighter swear words in all good fun with my family. Plus it's a lotta fun! Woo! Plus, I love offending people I hate. Like Saruman. Heehee…"

"Well yes, that is all well in good, but do keep trying to minimize that speech. I, unfortunately, am getting used it. Matter of fact, I do not think you would be yourself if you don't use such foul language, because you use it so casually… hmpf!"

"Fine! I'll lighten up. I also don't want a grumpy wizard to hang around either! But I love seeing your grumpy face! You remind me of my adorable daddy when he pouts. He's older now, heading into his 70's, so when he pouts… he's so cute! I just want to squeeze those cheeks and say", I reach from behind and pinch Gandalf's cheeks, "its okay Daddy! Never fear! Your ungraceful silly daughter is here!"

Then I feel a smile forming on his face and he does that 'oh ho ho' laugh he does. Then she shakes his head to signal me to take my hands off of his cheeks. "Alright then. Do as you wish as long as you consider others and consequences that can occur with your behavior."

"I know. I know… it's like that with every single person no matter where you are in life." I smile and I lean on his back. It's getting dark and I'm already tired.

"Hey Gandalf?"

"Hmm?"

"I miss my family a lot. I miss my friends… I miss everything about my home."

"I feel your heart's sadness, Elena. Anyone would miss their home and all familiarity around them. I know you have many disadvantages being here in this world compared to yours, but so far it seems you are adapting well, at least considering you are kind, sweet, outgoing, and willing to talk to anyone."

"Please. I have no survival skills. The only times I ever use anything sharp is when I'm cutting food to cook with! I don't know how to trail anything or anyone, look for food, hunt, or whatever… I can barely run. I'm not even a physically fit person… half-elf… whatever I am. Here people use swords, bows and arrows, knives, and magic. My world, heh, no such thing as magic, only in a metaphorical sense. Bows and arrows, as a sport. Swords? We never had a use for them since we have harsher weapons than here. People collect them and place them like decorations… instead of magic, we have science. People discover and experiment to learn and make life easier. Here? I don't belong here… I just don't. I don't have anybody here."

I feel him take a deep breath and lets it out. "My Dear Elena. You come from a world that is currently beyond my comprehension. But people who want to live, usually have the same thing, which is culture. We always desire to go back to what we know, but if we don't like it, we leave it or change it. Such is the beauty of free will." I feel him share another light laughter with me "And I don't think you are doing too bad. We can train you in the basics to help you survive. I don't think I would want to protect you ever single second of my life either. You must learn to help yourself and help others in case there is a time where I may not be there while you are still in this world."

"Really!? You will!? Oh my God!" I hold onto his robes by my index finger and thumb and move them up and down in my excitement.

But I guess he's right… there is going to be a time when Gandalf won't be by my side. What am I going to do once that time comes? Who is going to help me with this whole Dark Lord inside me shit? People might shun me once they find out what I am!

I don't want to go to Rivendell anymore…

I let go of his robes, but my thoughts are shaken.

"Yes. And you must keep it up and never quit. If you don't quit, I'll purchase you something nice." Ha I wish I could see his face.

You know, he's like a dad to me since I've been here. Taking care of me, gives me advice, sets boundaries, scolding me, rewarding me, disciplining me, wakes me up in the mornings, and we have fun. I pout, cry, laugh with him, get mad, yell, smile, and react like I would if it were my dad. But cooler…

I didn't have the best relationship with my dad, so I would rather think of Gandalf as a grandpa to me. My dad was cool, money hungry, but he's alright.

"Sweets! I want sweets!" I can't help it.

Always remember, no matter what age you are, even if you're twenty-eight like me with a successful career, you can act however you want. Never believe you have to act like an adult just because you are an adult.

Even adults can fuck-up, be stupid, not have anything to say, get excited about something, become nostalgic, be cranky, and immature… whatever you want… as long as you try to not look stupid, but sometimes that's fun too, depending on the situation.

Oh you'll figure it out when you grow up, but good luck actually explaining it!

"Alright alright. You sound just like a child, but I bet that is just one of the great 'charms' you have about yourself." He just pft me!

"My freaking charm! I just hope I'll do okay. Plus I haven't done any real physical activity since my early twenties when I had to fullfil requirements to finish my education… ugh… I hated running a mile…" I chuckle aloud. "And the entire time, we've been walking and running twenty miles… I guess I came a long way… I didn't even realize it." I start examining myself… "Hey! I lost weight! Yeah!" my arms and legs are thinner. "Hey Gandalf! I'm gonna need an upgrade of wardrobe!" I would never have been able to do this back home! Never ever had any time for exercising at home.

Whoops, lost my train of thought.

"You have the stamina and endurance, at least building it up, to be able to defend yourself."

"I guess that's a start. I'll do my best. I'll complain, but do my best. It's only natural for me." I smirk.

"Just don't do it too loudly. Even the elves can be sensitive to the volume of your howls of complaints." I just pat his back. "Hey!" Then I did the kind of did a 'you know what, you're right' face. "Okay, I'll try."

"Let's get to it Grandpa. I wanna see everybody…" I smirk. I wonder if he'll let me call him that. My grandparents died when I was eight, and they were kinda old, so I didn't know them or interacted with them very well. Plus, I'm pretty attached to Gandalf now… Like I said, my father wasn't exactly father of the year. I am the way that I am due to the nurturing of my mother and the cultures around me of course.

"Oh I'm Grandfather to you now?" Eek. Didn't get away with that one…

"It's just because you're old! That's all…" Damn… I hope he doesn't think I'm weak or anything.

"That is true. I am old in your eyes. But if you feel the need to call me grandfather, or grandpa, I wouldn't stop you. I have been gaining a paternal instinct since you were just a little sphere of light. You have been like a baby since we've been traveling together. And before you say anything, remember I am two thousand years old."

Right… right… I lean into him. I'm feeling sleepy. "Do you think the elves in Rivendell will like me? Especially Lord Elrond?"

"They may need some time to warm up to you, but otherwise, I believe if you just be yourself, they will create a friendship."

I yawn. "Now go to sleep. You may be half-elven, but you are still easily tired as a member of the race of men."

"Thanks. I'll get to get some shut eye then. Let me know when you need a break yourself. I don't want you cranky, Old Man." I wrap my arms around his torso and close my eyes. "Let's go! I'm wishing that when I open my eyes, I'll be in Rivendell."

"Think as you like. I'm a wizard, not a creator. Come, Shadowfax, we're done talking now. Let us make haste!" Shadowfax nays and he starts galloping fast!

"Whoa! Shadowfax! I totally owe you one buddy!" Shadowfax makes a sound, which sounds like in total agreement. Maybe I can get him an apple?

I'm too sleepy to think right now…

"Elena. It is time to awaken. We have arrived. Also you are drooling on my robe again."

"Gah! Sorry! Man, such a nasty habit! Anyway, it's because I'm sleeping sitting up! Gravity does it to me…" I whip awake due to my embarrassment and quickly start rubbing my mouth dry.

We hop off of Shadowfax and we bid him farewell for now. "Bye Shadowfax. Thanks for always saving us, especially from the Nazgul. Be careful when you head back to your lands, okay. I'll miss you." I hug his neck and gave him a quick scratch behind his ear. Then he actually wrapped his neck around me… awww horse hug!

"Until next time, friend." Gandalf pats him on the back and thanks him and he then gallops away from us.

"Ahhhhh, I feel good." I said stretching out my arms. I then start doing leg stretches, standing and leaning down, leaving my leg stretched out as I reach for my toes. I'm doing basic stretching so that I can ready myself for the walk. We stopped at the river where I recognize that Frodo would be with or without Glorfindel.

"Coming along, Elena?" Huh? I look around and Gandalf is already far from me. Gotta jog it.

"Coming… Granddad!" I stuck out my tongue in silliness. Is it weird that I honestly see him as a paternal figure? He's like… I don't know, but throughout our journey together, I've been really attached to him.

Is he singing now? Sounds happy.

"Gandalf? Are we almost there?" I'm trudging through the steep hill that we are climbing making sure I don't slip on the damp looking autumn leaves.

"Yes we are. We are very very close. Since you do appear to be a half-elf, do you sense anything?" I see him trudge up. I guess he found a long stick to use to help him up.

"Nah. If anything, my chest feels heavy. Like, I can feel… oh I don't know how to describe it. As if it's a dark screen wanting to envelop me? I'm really bad a describing things… I'm fighting it Gandalf. I really am. Nothing is different. It's not easier nor harder, just still there. I wonder…" I slow down my pace… "I wonder if I can… access the power that's in me. Since it's only Morgoth's energy, maybe I can use it? He's still in the void right?"

"Do not use his power. Whatsoever. It will only corrupt you in the end." That is all he said and kept walking.

But if I can use it… access it… use it against Sauron… I'll be a better asset… I'll try it. I really want to. And like the rebellious 'granddaughter of Gandalf', I will.

"Ow." I rubbed my stomach. Weird. It felt like I was just slapped there. Okay, seriously… what are these random pains!? I've been getting them since I first got here! So annoying and painful… bleh…

After what seemed like hours, we finally reached the top.

Good God… is it ever beautiful.

Platform is of a smooth stone.

Stylish beams on each side of the entrance.

Such marble, feldspar, quartz, limestone, ahhhhh such strong stones… okay. So I like rocks.

We walk into the middle of the circled stoned platform and there he was at the top of the steps…

Lord Elrond… totally not Hugo Weaving… totally not. He's so tall, his elven ears exposed, his long hair perfectly in his hairdo… his robes are so handsome and elegant on him. Definitely… definitely shows he is of high status… I'm actually feeling a little intimidated by him. I try to organize my hair to make sure I hid my ears.

Oh man! I look terrible! I probably smell bad too! Eeeeee…. I feel groady… I need a bath… a cleansing!

Last minute I decided to hide behind Gandalf. Remember! I'm a kid compared to the ages to everyone here!

"What are you doing? Do not disrespect Lord Elrond. Come out and say hello." He just drags me out in front but I look down on the ground. "But Gandalf! I smell! I look horrible! I can't meet him like this! I am such a disgrace right now!" I loudly whispered.

"Don't be afraid, Child. You are in good company. Welcome to Rivendell." I slowly look up into his eyes. He is a handsome elf. Plus very fatherly. I remember how I read and watched how he would talk to Arwen.

"Greetings Lord Elrond. My name is Elena. It is a really really… really great honor to meet you." I just bowed slowly. Gandalf then nudges me to start walking up the stairs. I look down to watch my feet go up the steps. Once I reach the top, I look up at Lord Elrond. Yup… he is taaaaaaaalll.

"Please do not worry. Welcome to my house. From the look that is upon Gandalf's face, I can see that we have much to discuss."

"That would be wise. Let us be off." Gandalf started to follow Lord Elrond, but I kinda stayed behind a bit… I started to do that shy request action that is favored by me because I hate asking for shit…

I hold my hands behind me, use the ball of my foot to twist the light layer of dirt that is under it, and sway my hips a little.

"Lord Elrond… before we do anything, please grant me a simple request…" I look up to him.

"Yes, Elena. What would that be?" He scrunched his eyebrows, but gave me a small smile.

"May I please… please…" I bring my hands up in a sort of begging motion "get cleaned up, have temporary clothes so I can wash the ones I'm wearing, and just kick back? I need a cleansing after everything that Gandalf and I have been through with the dirt, and fighting Nazgul, and the walking, and the running… I could really use it… I've been through a lot. And I a lot for a girl like me…"

Must be rid of the groady feeling and feel human again…elf… half-elven again… I feel so gross…