So now that I've got a few chapters up to get the story started I will be attempting to update it weekly. Thank you to those who followed, favorited and reviewed. Also I've been in search of a beta reader for a while now but haven't had any luck so if anyone has any suggestions please let me know!

To Aralinn: Thank you SO much for the advice! I completely agree with having more original dialogue, nobody wants to read a movie script. Hopefully this chapter will be an improvement.

"What are you doing?" cried Sam. His eyes frantically searched the forest around him as the sound of hooves faded into the distance. Sam was filled with worry and guilt. Frodo was barely alive and now Strider had sent him off on a horse, surely to be pursued by the Black Riders. If only they hadn't lit that fire, perhaps his friend would have been alright.

"We had no other choice Sam. Frodo would be worse than dead by the time we got to Rivendell on foot," said Strider gently.

"And if they catch him?" demanded Merry.

"Arwen is a skilled rider and the speed of an elven horse is not easily matched," replied the man. "Once they reach the river the power of the elves shall protect him." His answer did little to sooth the hobbits and they fidgeted where they stood. Sam began to pace as their guides discussed whether or not they should move on or take some rest. The forest had fallen silent, the only sound was the creak of wind in the trees, their branches casting dappled shadows across the mossy ground in the pale moonlight.

"Alright," said Strider, "we've decided it would be best to stay here for the moment. Arwen will have drawn off our pursuers and we might as well take advantage of the opportunity to relieve our limbs. We'll rise bright and early then make for Rivendell." The hobbits nodded and each of them found a place on the soft earth. Pippin and Merry fell asleep first and were soon followed by their guide. Sam tried as hard as he could but sleep would not come, his weariness erased by concern for his friend. He tossed and turned, unable to stay still. Finally he gave in and sat up, bringing his knees to his chest and staring at the pine needles that blanketed the forest floor. Every now and then he would glance over at Eredhel for a while. Being the first elf he had gotten to know, he was curious. She was not overly joyful or lighthearted, unlike the elves he and Frodo had seen on the way to Bree. There was something about her, a lack of light. Even though she had proved herself to be a friend she still made him nervous. She sat looking off into the distance while tying knots in a piece of grass in her hands. Now that Sam thought on it, he never had seen her sleeping. When Strider had the watch she would remain awake. Sam wondered how she managed this but did not want to bother her so remained silent until finally his curiosity got the best of him. "Do you ever sleep?" he blurted.

The elf looked at him intently, her head tilted to the side, "We elves do not rest in the same way men or hobbits do. Instead we slip into waking dreams by focusing on things that are peaceful or hold great beauty. It is more to relieve our minds than our bodies," she explained.

"But even so I've never seen you in such a tranquil state. You're always alert," said Sam. Eredhel absentmindedly traced the ridged edges of her leaf shaped pendant as she hesitated before answering him.

"I do not find peace in dreams." Her tone implied that she was done with the subject but Sam did not want to think about Frodo so he tried to find something else to talk about, hoping he wasn't bothering her.

"What's Rivendell like?" he asked. Sam had heard the tales of the valley of the elves. It was said to be protected by some kind of powerful magic, so that no evil was able to enter. He had always listened eagerly to the stories Bilbo would tell of the elves and their hidden dwelling. Sam had been entranced by the Fair Folk and wanted very badly to see them.

"It is beautiful. It was founded thousands of years ago by my father, Lord Elrond. Imladris is tucked away in the shadow of the Misty Mountains and waterfalls flow down through the hills to the Bruinen River below. The trees grow strong in shades of yellow, red and green. Everything is peaceful and it is quite easy to forget the troubles of the outside world. There is much song and storytelling but also quiet for those who wish to simply sit and think."

"That sounds wonderful. It must have been a nice place to live," said Sam. Eredhel chuckled bitterly as she stared off into the distance, recalling a distant memory.

"Yes, it is rather sheltered. Strider grew up in the valley as well."

"But why would he have lived there? Strider is a Ranger."

"That is his story to tell. I am sure all your questions will be answered when we reach our destination," she replied. They fell silent then and the night slowly wore on. Sam's mind was filled with visions of Rivendell, of the music and songs of the elves. These glad thoughts calmed his heart and slowly lulled him to sleep. Eredhel studied the snoring hobbit, it was obvious that he was very loyal to Frodo and she hoped for both their sakes that Arwen would get to her father on time.

She shifted slightly and turned her head to the night sky. Her heart was heavy as she stared up at the stars but found no comfort among the twinkling lights. Eredhel stood and searched the trees around her. When she found one she was satisfied with she pulled herself up and settled into a nook between several branches. The fresh smell of the leaves relaxed her mind and her fingertips ran up and down the rough bark. She remained there until the sky turned pink with the light of dawn and she heard Aragorn waking below.

When he saw that his friend was nowhere in sight he looked up to the trees and wasn't surprised when she landed lightly on the ground next to him. They woke the hobbits and after a cold breakfast planned to start in the direction of Rivendell and expected to arrive at the ford by late afternoon. Aragorn had only just finished his meal when the plate was whisked out of his hands by Pippin and placed with the others on top of Bill. The ranger was slightly taken aback by the three halflings standing expectantly in front of him. With a groan, he rose and they immediately began walking.

Before Weathertop the hobbits had lagged behind, their short legs outmatched by the other two's long strides. Now however, fear for their friend pushed them onward and they briskened their pace. Because of this they made good time and reached the ford only an hour after midday. When they arrived at the river, Eredhel bent and examined the bank. She moved a few pebbles and glanced at the shore opposite. "The water has risen in the past few days. Underneath the stones are still wet."

"Yes," agreed the man. "And here there are many hoof prints leading into the river. I suspect the protection of Lord Elrond caused the river to wash away our foes."

"Then Frodo made it!" said Merry triumphantly.

"Yes but did he make it on time? Come!" Strider beckoned to them. "Let us cross the river, mind that you do not slip!" He stepped in and the rushing water swirled around his boots. The hobbits were nervous as they tentatively followed him. Eredhel went last in case one of the others should lose their footing. Once they reached the other side they continued towards the foothills of the Misty Mountains. Now Eredhel went in front and she led them into a deep gorge. She reached out her hand and ran her slender fingers over the rough rock. Carnivorous trees grew along the trail and cliffs rose high above them. Suddenly the elf stopped, her head turned to the side as if listening. She folded her arms over her chest as she remained still, waiting for something.

Not something, but someone. Several elves stepped out from the trees onto the path before them. The leader was tall and golden hair fell past his fair face. His movements were graceful but his posture was that of a warrior. A smile touched his lips as he approached them and the hobbits looked up at him in awe as he spoke. "Êl síla erin lû e-govaned vîn mellonen. (A star shines upon the hour of our meeting my friend.)"

"Mae g'ovannen Glorfindel. (Well met Glorfindel.)" Eredhel nodded her head towards him. The elf-lord greeted Aragorn then turned to Merry, Pippin and Sam.

"Hello, hobbits from the Shire! Your friend passed through here in the early hours of the morning," said Glorfindel.

"Is Frodo alright?" demanded Pippin.

"He was weak when he arrived with Lady Arwen and she rode on to Rivendell. Do not despair, he is under the care of Lord Elrond and your friend has a strong heart," replied the elf. "Now let us head for the valley!" The other elves grouped around the travelers and they continued through the rocks. Glorfindel went first with Eredhel and Strider behind him, the three murmuring in elvish. The hobbits followed along, forced to go single file by the now narrow path. Their previous vigor had waned and occasionally they would stumble, only to be caught by an elf behind them. Sam did not know how long they walked but he soon became aware that the sky had darkened to a velvety black. A narrow strip of stars could be seen from between the cliffs above them. Pippin yawned and nearly nodded off on his feet.

"If you do not mind me asking, how much farther is it?" he asked sleepily. A laugh came from their leader and several of the elves smiled.

"My friend, it will gladden you to know that we have just arrived," announced Glorfindel. Seconds later the trail widened and started to slope slightly downwards. Pippin stopped next to his friends and gasped in awe, his tired eyes widening at the sight in front of him. The valley was deep and the roar of the great waterfalls could be heard all around them. The dwelling of Elrond was situated high above the river with many other buildings surrounding it. Lights twinkled warmly from windows and Pippin felt his worries leave him as he gazed down at the Last Homely House.

The group began to descend stone steps and stopped in a wide circular courtyard. Their escorts dispersed and one of them led the pony to the stables. Now only Glorfindel remained. "Welcome," said a deep voice and the hobbits turned to see an elf coming towards them. Dark hair was braided back from his face and his eyes shone brightly. He wore a grey mantle and on his head was a circlet of silver. It was quite obvious that he was Eredhel's father for they bore a strong resemblance. The elf looked neither young nor old and greeted them with a warm smile. This was the venerable Lord Elrond. He was as wise as a wizard, as powerful as a warrior and as kind as summer.

"Lord Elrond." Aragorn touched his forehead in respect.

"Estel, it's been long since you returned to the valley." The elf clapped him on the shoulder then turned to Eredhel. "It has also been many years since you have been home daughter."

"Aye Adar." She bowed her head.

"Hello little masters. I have tidings of your companion," said Elrond, turning to the hobbits.

"Frodo! Is he alive?" asked Merry.

"Yes but weak, very weak. Arwen is watching over him in my absence."

"Please, may we see him?" begged Sam.

"Of course," replied Elrond. "Though he is asleep and may not awaken for a few days yet."

"Come my friends! I will show you the way," offered Glorfindel. Sam, Pippin and Merry followed him through a stone archway then took a left towards the central house. Eredhel and Aragorn remained behind with Lord Elrond.

"I am sure you know I have some questions," Elrond started.

"Yes my lord," said Aragorn. The elf was like a father to him and Aragorn regarded him with the deepest of respect.

"Firstly, where is Gandalf?"

"We do not know. We hoped he had arrived here before us. He did not meet us at the Prancing Pony and we were forced to flee the town when the Riders came searching for the Ring. Some great misfortune must have befallen the wizard for him to miss our meeting," explained Aragorn.

"His fate is veiled from me, he must have met trouble on the road. What happened after you left Bree?" asked Elrond. Aragorn told him the full story of their hike through the Wild and foggy nights on the Midgewater Marshes. He then went on to Weathertop where he faltered, unable to completely recount the battle. Eredhel stepped in and told her father of the Wraiths and how Frodo had put on the Ring. She described how the Witch King stabbed him and how she and Aragorn had fought them off. Here she fell silent, allowing her friend to continue the tale. When he finished, Lord Elrond remained silent, deep in thought. After several moments he spoke.

"What news is there from the East and South?"

"Things have become much worse in Mirkwood. We were there only a few months ago. More spiders have infested the forest and Legolas spoke of a black evil that seeps out of Dol Goldur," Eredhel explained sadly. It pained her to see the great forest in such darkness and even more to see Legolas in such a grim state of worry.

"Orc movements have increased in both Gondor and Rohan," said Aragorn. "There have been many attacks on outlying villages. Once these are conquered they will most likely continue on to the main cities."

"This is troublesome news indeed. I have some matters to discuss with you but for now I would like to speak with my daughter," Aragorn nodded and headed in the same direction as the hobbits. Lord Elrond turned to Eredhel and his eyes quickly took in her weathered appearance. Her clothes were dusty and worn, her boots spattered with mud. Weapons alone were the only things that remained clean. Her hair was tied back but several strands fell around her face and her grey eyes shone with their usual fierce intensity. He wondered what secrets she was keeping hidden in their depths but was relieved to see that she did not have any injuries. "It eases my mind to know you are safely in the valley."

"As it does mine," she said. Her father smiled and she relaxed slightly at the familiar expression.

"You are well?"

"Yes, fortunately I have avoided any injuries."

"You know I was not asking about physical ailments." He frowned.

"I am completely fine," she assured him but her father remained skeptical.

"You have not slept lately," observed the lord.

"For reasons other than the one you're thinking of." Her eyes flashed but the tactic didn't work on her father. He could not be scared off from questioning her.

"Why do you deny that something ails you?" Elrond noticed she seemed to bear the weight of an invisible burden.

"Because there is nothing either of us can do to improve it and now is not the time to be weak," she answered wearily and ran a hand over her brow. For a moment he could see how heavy a toll recent events had taken on her. Eredhel blinked and a second later it was gone.

"I am sorry. If it was within my abilities to heal you-" he started.

"Please adar," she sighed, "do not feel guilty." Her father smiled sadly and nodded before embracing her. They continued to talk as they turned to take the same path as the others. When they reached the room Lord Elrond left her to join Arwen at Frodo's side. The hobbit was lying in a large bed, a carved wooden maiden watching over him from the wall above. Several candles were lit and he was covered with soft white blankets. He was asleep, his face pale and his shoulder bandaged. Sam was sitting in an armchair next to the bed and clearly did not intend on leaving his master's side. Pippin and Merry were behind him while Aragorn stood in the corner, his eyes on Arwen.

Suddenly Frodo stirred and a gasp escaped his lips. He fidgeted in the bed, sweat forming on his brow. Sam rose and clutched his hand worriedly. Lord Elrond checked Frodo's bandage then pressed a hand to his forehead. He muttered a few words in elvish and the hobbit calmed, slipping back into a peaceful sleep. Elrond studied his wound for a moment then turned his attention to the five travelers. "I am sure you are very tired from your journey. Your friend is now safe. If you like, Arwen can show you to your rooms so you may get some rest," he offered. Merry and Pippin nodded but Sam didn't budge.

"If it's all the same to you I would prefer to stay with Master Frodo. I won't be needing a bed or anything, this chair will do just fine," he said.

"As you wish." Elrond smiled and Arwen rose to lead the others to their rooms. Merry and Pippin followed her while their two guides took up the rear. They wound their way through airy halls adorned with wood carvings and depictions of elves of legend. They were passing by an open courtyard when Eredhel increased her strides and caught up with her sister.

"I know the way. I can bring them to their chamber," she suggested.

"No, I am sure you are tired as well. It's fine," said Arwen.

"You haven't seen him in years. Go on, Estel has missed you." She saw her sister hesitate. "Really Arwen it's no trouble."

"Thank you Eredhel," She smiled then fell back next to Aragorn and the two of them took a left out into the courtyard. Merry and Pippin made to follow them but Eredhel steered them down a long corridor. Usually she hated such duties but when it came to her sister, Eredhel would do almost anything.

"Your chambers are in a different wing," she explained. They finally stopped in a circular hall with three doors. The floor was made of ancient oak yet no creaks came from under their tired feet. Through one of the open archways they could see a garden, in the middle of which a stone fountain stood. It was quiet here and the sound of the waterfalls had lessened. Leaves had blown in onto the floor and all the wood made the space feel warm and cozy. "Now I assume you two would prefer to stay together," said Eredhel and they nodded. She led them through one of the open doors into a room that held two identical beds. A balcony gave them a view of the garden below and a separate chamber held a washing room. An oak cabinet stood next to a long, low couch which the two hobbits sank onto immediately. Pippin yawned and had just shut his eyes when he received a sharp elbow in the ribs from Merry. Pippin's eyes widened and he stood, sweeping into a low bow.

"Thank you very much Eredhel," he said in a deep voice. Eredhel rolled her eyes and lit another candle beside the bed.

"There will be some new clothes brought by for you shortly. Feel free to wander as you wish. If you get lost or want to find somewhere in particular then simply ask any elf you find. They would be more than happy to point you in the right direction. Is there anything else you need?" she asked. They thought for a moment but seemed unable to come up with anything and shook their heads. "Good. If you think of anything within the next hour then I will be in my room which is just down the south hall." They thanked her again and she left them to rest.

When Eredhel got to her room she began to strip off her worn clothes. The tub in the separate washing room had already been filled. A basket of different types of flowers and herbs sat on a low table. Placing some thyme and lavender into the tub she sank into the hot water. It took her quite a while to get all the dust and grime out of her hair and skin. When she was satisfied that she could get no cleaner she rose from the water, steam coiling off her arms.

Back in her room she pulled on black breeches and a forest green tunic with an ochre trim. She deposited her weapons beneath her bed and had just finished braiding her wet hair when a knock came at her door. Eredhel opened it and found Merry and Pippin standing awkwardly in the hall. Merry had his hands clasped in front of him and was staring down at them intently while Pippin rocked back and forth on his heels. When they looked up at her their cheerful eyes widened at the difference in her appearance. The dust and dirt from her long travels to the East and South was now gone, her skin shone warmly and her eyes were brighter. Eredhel arched an eyebrow. "Would you like to come in?" she asked. Merry became aware of his staring and hastily poked Pippin in the side.

"I hope we aren't interrupting anything," said Pippin quickly, averting his gaze.

"Of course not." She stepped aside so they could pass through the doorway. The hobbits looked around the room interestedly. Eredhel's lips twitched as she waited for their explanation. It amazed her how their curiosity could completely overcome them at times, their eyes growing to size of dinner plates.

"Well," started Merry, "you see we didn't want to be a bother but, well, we..."

"We're hungry," stated Pippin impatiently. Eredhel chuckled and shook her head. They seemed slightly surprised at her emotion but grinned none the less.

"Well that's not a problem. Would you like me to show you how to get to the kitchens?" she offered.

"Yes please," said Merry. Once again they followed her through the house then along a stone pathway. Leaves drifted down from the trees above as they crossed a stone bridge that ran over a gurgling stream. Although it was now near ten o'clock several elves passed them and bowed to the hobbits. Merry and Pippin were very surprised by the gesture. Unsure what to do they would often bow back, much to the amusement of the fair folk. They smelled the kitchens before they saw them and Pippin sniffed the air eagerly, his stomach growling. Eredhel led them down a final open hall then pointed them to a set of double wooden doors to their left.

"You can eat as much as you wish." She then spotted Lord Elrond coming down the corridor opposite. "I will join you in a moment." Merry and Pippin hurried through the doors just as he reached her. "Is Frodo alright?" she asked.

"Yes, Sam is with him," he explained. "I had a favor to ask of you."

"Of course, anything."

"The representatives will be arriving within the coming days. Elladan and Elrohir are on an errand, will you reclaim your position as Captain of the Guard? It hasn't actually been filled since you left." Eredhel realized she wanted him to watch the entrance to the valley. "Glorfindel has returned to his post but perhaps you would be willing to relieve him tomorrow morning? Gaelring and Tirithon will go with you." She knew both of them well, especially Gaelring whom would often train with her when Aragorn was absent.

"I would be glad to. How many representatives did you call for?"

"I sent messengers to the South, to the dwarves under the Lonely Mountain and," he paused, "to Mirkwood." Eredhel smiled to herself at the thought of who would be coming from the Woodland Realm. Her exterieur however remained neutral as her father awaited her reply.

"Ah, very well then. Tell the others I will expect them to leave for the entrance at dawn." She was about to turn away when Elrond spoke again.

"Eredhel, wait." His daughter stopped and looked at him in confusion. He reached into a pocket beneath his cloak and pulled out a round, silver brooch. An arrow and a sword crossed in the middle of a braided circle. It was a gift her father had given her on her 500th birthday, when he had named her Captain. She had left it in his study during one of her last visits. It had been the middle of the night when she slipped out of the valley, leaving the brooch and a note on his desk saying she no longer wanted the responsibility. Eredhel nodded and took it from him, pinning it on her tunic. Her father thanked her then left to return to Frodo. After he was gone she headed into the kitchens. The spicy smell of cedar met her nose as she slid onto a bench next to the two hobbits. Their plates were piled high with apple pork, seasoned vegetables, fresh rolls and wild rice with mushrooms which they seemed particularly fond of. A bowl of mixed berries was set between them. She was amazed at how much the pair could eat. They offered her much of their food but she declined, taking only a few raspberries from the bowl.

"So tell me, would this be considered supper or dinner?" asked Eredhel curiously. They paused for a moment, thinking as they chewed.

"Well," started Merry, "It's around the time for dinner though this is a bit larger than our typical dinners."

"But we also skipped supper, as well as afternoon tea and lunch and elevensies," added Pippin. "We haven't had any of those since we left the Shire."

"So I guess you could say this is all of them rolled into one," concluded Merry as he suppressed a belch.

"Do you think Sam might like some?" suggested Eredhel. It was agreed that the two of them would bring their friend a plate of food once they had finished. Eredhel rose from the table to get it while they were eating, grabbing a few apples and buns for herself along the way. There was no use being hungry while she waited for their guests to arrive.

Once they had gone back for seconds and their plates were once again empty she led them back to Frodo's room. They knocked tentatively before entering and going to stand beside Sam. He hadn't moved since they last saw him but the food seemed to cheer him up a little. Sam had just started in on the potatoes when Eredhel excused herself, saying she had some preparations to make for the next day. On her way to her room she spotted Arwen and Aragorn walking in one of the gardens. It had been a long time since she had seen him look so content, she only wished he had come home to stay.