I feel like John and Hank Green.....

Hello fellow Writing Rantians (rantians??? new word?) this blog post comes in 4 parts,

Part one: An extremely overdue attempt at a query letter-no. This is not sucking up or anything I just felt like doing it. Which is really odd because I usually hate doing anything that involves work and I didn't really hate this so....anyway. Here it is:


Dear (agent):

Several years after nuclear war it's 3050 and the world is still torn, 6 major government agency are now ruling the world in mass force; when a high class U.S. agent is sent after the European's top agent, Emily MaCintyre, she takes it within her own hands to defend herself, but when a terrifying shadow from the past and two agents spirits interfere she discovers there may be more than just one life at stake.© Katherine LaGassie 2007

17-year-old European agent, Emily MaCintyre, is working for one of the 6 major governmental agencies ruling the world in 3050 after a major nuclear war that ripped through the world. The top field agent in her class and age range she knows secrets that could crush empires. No stranger to death threats and danger it is of no surprise or worry to her when her boss informed her that a high class U.S. agent, V. Striker, has been given orders to kill her. Forced into a job she didn't want to take Emily agrees to hunting this V. Striker down. Complications rise when a female spirit hunts her down attaching to her for her own protection, alerting her that this will be like no other task she's had before. Once in the U.S. more complications rise: she's stationed in a city she once called home surrounded by family who believe her dead, people are hunting down her last identity accusing her of high-class murder, she's becoming increasingly attached to her neighbor Daniel Reeves who has some secrets of his own and a mass murderer, Jason DeVion, breaks out of jail re-establishing his once flurishing crime rate. In the end it comes down to one thing: agents from rival forces, set out to kill eachother, must unite above the odds to end DeVion's reign of terror-there's only one problem Jason DeVion's not going down without a fight and he doesn't play fair.© Katherine LaGassie2007

(insert bio HERE)

My young adult novel, Shattered Pieces© 2007 , is finnished at about (insert number HERE when I finnish). The full manuscript is available upon request. Thank you for your time and consideration, I look forward to hearing from you,

Sincerely

Katie LaGassie

Well that has to be one on the most agonizing tasks EVER! I don't even want to THINK of writing that for LOA. *dies* By the way the copyright signs are there because I wrote them on Microsoft word and it does that automatically for me-my works are copyrighted-YAY!

Part two,

Now. I have MORE for you :), however it's nothing original. It's LOTR oriented. (notice that I DON'T write in complete sentences on blogs??) So let me get this long post started:

I was thinking back at the first chapter I wrote of my LoTR fan fiction and decided I left some things left open ended. So resently I tied together the loose ends and added some important charactors, such as Lenia's brother, who I believed were important to the plot and also shaped up everything in the beginning to exactly WHY she was in Mirkwood when she was and WHY she was so banged up. So this is what I'm giving to you, it's not a prologue, I'm working on that now, but it's a NEW first chapter which will make the old one chapter 2.


Disclaimer: The only thing I own are my made up plot twists, made up charactors and places, other than that it's 100% J.R.R. Tolkien or the movie company that made it a movie (....erg not sure what it's called.....). I've used several lines/things from the movies in this, I DO NOT OWN THEM.

Copyrights: Lenia, Lord Sryton, Rhamdal, Kadden, Tripton, Pieces, Jumper, Ashanti ©Katherine LaGassie
All others© J.R.R. Tolkien and Peter Jackson and his film company

Fan Fiction Book: Shadow of a Doubt

Chapter 1: Crossing into Valor

By: Katherine LaGassie



“Well now, whom do have we here?” Ashanti spoke opening the door.
Lenia’s eyes rolled, “Mother if you don’t know who your children are by now you need help.”
Tripton laughed merrily, “She’s got a point mum, you’ve only known us what-our entire lives?”
Lord Sryton smiled, “I believe your mother refers to your companions my children.” Lenia turned to look at the rangers around her, all male, all older, all less experienced-all but her brother, Tripton. “They’re new Rangers, Gandalf has put them in our care-we’re bringing them to Aragorn.”
“Aragorn and Gandalf are taking in more inexperienced?” Lord Sryton asked stepping aside, allowing them inside that large castle. “They have no choice but to build up, as you know, Sauron’s growing stronger-we all here know that-there have been deaths of rangers already, none of us were prepared for such a strong comes back. We need all the help we can get.” Tripton said, arms crossing across his chest.
Ashanti looked at her two children, “Oh yes, this conversation puts a mother’s worries at ease 100%.”
Lenia smiled and placed loving hands on her mother’s upper arms, “Don’t worry mom, we’re all prepared.”
“And hungry,” one of the rangers spoke up and Tripton laughed, “Very, we haven’t eaten in days-we had to take a cross the mountain range and travel hard and fast, Gandalf moves fast and we must find him before he leaves where ever in the gods name he is now.”
“Which as you two know could be just about anywhere.” Lenia smirked and turned to the rangers, “Tripton will show you the baths, you can change up and wash up there.” She turned to her parents, “That alright?”
“We’ll do anything to see you all in proper and cleanly attire again.” Ashanti said and mused her daughters hair as the others left. “Oh it’s cover in mud-and look at you, an utter mess….and your clothing. Lenia, dear, hasn’t one told you-“
“Mum,” She reattached her hands again, “I’m 17-years-old, I’m a ranger, this is how I look. I love you but I can’t always dress like I’m royalty-or like I just bathed.” She smirked, “Face it. Your daughter is a lean mean dirty killing machine.”
“Just the words every father wishes to hear.” Lord Sryton said with a bright smile and Lenia laughed, hugging both her parents, “I've missed you," She said and then let go, "I’m going to wash up, we’ll see you momentarily.” With that she rushed up the stairs to meet one of the rangers handing her, her clothing. “Thank you, Pieces.” She said.
“Not a problem, Shadow.” The ranger replied, he seemed to be about 27 years of age, male, and was, out of all the newlings the most experienced. “Finding the cleaning areas satisfactory?” She asked with a wink. He laughed, “Compared the mountains this is heavenly, no one ever told me you had royalty in your blood.”
“Tripton and I act more like dug-bees** than royalty.” She said with a laugh, “Our Uncle is Lord Elrond of Rivendell.” She said splashing water on her tired face and watched as slowly any dirt upon it dripped off.
“You live so close to Mordor, to the fires of mount doom.” Piece spoke; they were the only ones in that particular wash room. “It’s a wonder your home still stands, I’ve never seen something so close….”
Lenia frowned, wiping off her face and dunking her head beneath the faucet, allowing the cool water to trickle down her head and cool the pulsing veins that were thinking so hard as always. “It is a wonder it still stands, my friend, my family’s people are ill and dying and the orcs enjoy playing with us-more so destroying us at will. Our city is falling apart with the rise of Sauron. We were the first to fall and the first to be forced to flee last time-Elrond and my father's parents took our people in and shielded us and when it came time my father and our people fought, they wanted their home and the rest of middle earth back-they deserved it-and they got it. Until now that is anyway.” Pieces was quiet and listened as the more experienced ranger spoke to him. Lenia stood flipping sopping, newly clean hair onto her back, drenching her worn attire. She looked over at Pieces to find him doing the same, “Change, we can speak more later-I’ll meet you down stairs with the others.” She turned, exited the room and went to change. The silken robes felt odd against her skin after not having them for so long. She wasn’t sure whether or not she enjoyed the gentle, calming sensation it gave her. It almost felt like false hope for the new world, and she despised false hate. Quickly she braided her hair and ran downstairs to meet the others, feeling naked without her weaponry by her side. However, she was relieved to find the others feeling the same way as they sat at her parent’s rather large dinner table. There was joyful conversation for most of the evening but as the light fell to darkness the conversation turned. Sauron’s presence could be felt by thoughs who knew him, lingering close by-ever watchful, ever wondering, ever dangerous. He was focused on several places, several homes, several races. He was praying for defeat, praying that middle earth would not rise up but yet, he had no fear of if they did because he was powerful. More powerful than he had ever been before and that was all he needed to know. The conversations continued lingering here and there on terrifying moments that made both siblings wonder why their parents weren't passed out on the floor from hearing things that their children’s friends or they, had gotten in to or done. There was a change in the wind and Lenia turned to look at the window, a white wisp could be seen. “What’s out there?” One other ranger asked, panic in his inexperienced voice.
Lenia stood despite protest of her parents and moved quickly towards the door, her green robes drifted behind her as she did so. When she reached the door she wasted no time in opening it, she possessed no weaponry and if it was an enemy the would probably be able to strike her down before she could use her power against him but the feeling coming from the other side of the door did not feel like anger or resentment. It felt like endearment, concern-Gandalf. “Gandalf,” Lenia spoke as she opened the door, the older man was towering over her, an odd look within his eyes. “What’s the matter,” her lips barely parted as she spoke. His eyes blinked and then he relaxed, smiling a bit, “nothing’s wrong my dear-however, I do request your.....mind if I come in while we speak of this?” Lenia looked around and nodded, shutting the door behind him and walking him to the living room.
“Gandalf,” Ashanti said, standing up but Gandalf waved her down, “I will not be staying long and neither will they-no drink is needed, but I need you to listen.” He said, looking at the rangers and then looked at the King and Queen, “Please ready their equipment and anything they brought with them-pack them food and anything else you wish, I will fill you in at a later date but now I must talk to them. Please, move quickly.” Ashanti and Lord Sryton stood quickly and left, so used to such requests at untimely moments that it concerned neither of them. Gandalf sat at the front of the room and leaned forward, “No need to worry,” he spoke as the rulers exited the room, “there is nothing terribly wrong you must worry about.” He did seem calm, however, something was wrong or at least, not right. “Bilbo Baggins of the shire,” All eyes were locked on him and he the same on them, “is planning a birthday party-more so everyone else is for him-he’s turning an-oddly old age for a hobbit.” Tripton’s eyebrow raised deep behind his dark curly, wet bangs. “What on earth does this have to with us, Gandalf?” He asked leaning forward, head cocked to the side a bit.
Gandalf smiled lightly, “Everything of course, Tripton.” He said, “I want you all to go in and keep an eye on things, it’s nothing as adventurous as your days with Aragorn dear Tripton but I believe it will be a nice relaxing time and will give you and Lenia enough time to fill these others ranger’s with any confound it stories or information you wish. You will act as if you are travelers-nearly one of them,”
Tripton chuckled, “That should be no problem for Lenia, and she’s nearly their height.” Lenia stuck out her tongue and turned back to see Gandalf chuckling merrily. He stood, holding his hat in his hands, “I believe I’ve given you enough information for now,” he said, “Head out immediately, I have some business to attend to.” Lenia stood and followed Gandalf to the door, “What else is there?” She asked looking at him, “This is far to simple for you.”
Gandalf rested his elder eyes on hers, “I will inform you all soon enough. I promise.” He placed his hand on the side of her face, turned and in any instant was on his horse and gone. The wind blew and Sauron’s voice filled the air, immediately she shut the door-not wanting such words to entire the castle or the city.
“You’re leaving again,” Lord Sryton said putting down the last of the rangers things by the newly closed door. Lenia looked at her dad as her mother entered, “Yes, Gandalf requests our assistance.”
“For what?” Lord Sryton asked, long golden hair moved as his head tilted, resembling his sons inquisitive look.
“I do not know quite yet. We shall know soon.” Lenia said and the other rangers entered.
“We should go,” Tripton said and looked at Pieces and another ranger nicknamed Jumper, “untie the horses, the rest of us will be along shortly.” The two nodded, thanked the king and queen for their hospitality exited quickly. Ashanti crossed her arms, brown eyes looking greatly unhappy. Both children met each others gaze and sighed before looking back at her. “When on earth are we ever supposed to see you two?” She asked looking at them, “You’re never home anymore-I’m beginning to think you believe you belong to Aragorn and Gandalf.”
Tripton laughed and took his mothers hands, “Never could happen mother,” He kissed her forehead, “This is only a tinsy thing, we’ll be back before you know it, Ai vystori (I promise).”
“You better, I’d like to spend time with my children you know, we both would.” She said looking at her son who towered over her as Gandalf did Lenia.
“We know mother, we know, soon-we promise, but duty calls now and we must respond. Perhaps we’ll return with Aragorn.”
“Oh dear,” Lord Sryton said, “just what we want, you three together, that just leads to one big mess.”
Lenia laughed and both children hugged their parents, thanked them and left immediately going to their horses. “This is definitely not what I expected for our first adventure,” One ranger said as he mounted his horse and Lenia laughed as she mounted Anita, “You haven’t seen anything yet.” She said and they took off, full speed, towards the shire.

~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~


“See anything you desire my dear?” The woman hobbit asked, looking up.
Lenia smiled lightly and handed her what she had been looking at, “Yes please,” She exchanged money with the merchant and smiled, “Thank you.”
“You’re most welcome!” The woman exclaimed, marveled by the Elvin money she had been handed. Lenia smiled once more, took what she had bought and rejoined her brother at another shop, “What did you buy?” He asked looking at her, “Oh nothing much,” She said, “just another thing to paint.”
“You’re going to run yourself silly with painting, moraes (sister),” he said and smiled at his sister before he frowned, “What’s wrong?”
She looked at him, “Saesi’r tysi sai sor sal Kalar’r vaelaelaer-Ai cyrn air.” (There’s more to this than Gandalf’s revealed-I know it)
“As do I.”
“Then why isn’t it bothering you?” She asked looking at him and he crossed his arms, “because I’ve learned Gandalf tells you things when he wants you to know them. Bilbo’s birthday is tonight, we should know then.”
“Speak of the devil,” Pieces said walking over to them, “Look,” He said pointing up the hill, Gandalf and a hobbit sat seated in a wagon pulled by horse.
“Should have known he’d be here for his friend’s birthday.” Tripton said a smirk on his face as he lowered his hood.
Lenia followed her brother movement and laughed as fireworks shot from the back of Gandalf’s carriage, “We should head back; if he needs us he’ll ring us.”
Tripton and Pieces nodded in agreement; together the three rounded the rest of the rangers and headed back to their ‘home’. “Do you believe we’ll have a greater job now that Gandalf’s arrived?” Jumper asked as he poured himself something warm to drink.
Lenia and Tripton met eyes before either responded, “Most likely.” Tripton replied and stood, walking over to the window and watching Bilbo’s house, “It wouldn’t surprise, however, Gandalf is full of surprises.”
“That I am.”
The room turned to see Gandalf standing before them “I’m glad to see your have been doing just what I’ve asked, according to Bilbo you’re the best neighbors he’s ever had-however he wishes to know why rangers have the urge to bed in the Shire.” He smirked, “I told him I was giving you a vacation and when you heard of the shire it was the perfect place.”
Lenia smiled as she sipped her own warm drink, the room was silent, waiting for word from him. “You are formally invited to Bilbo’s party, keep an eye out there-he’s planning something and I’m not sure what it will entail.” The room remained silent, “I will give you further information later,” He turned and left immediately.
“You heard him,” Lenia said standing up, “We’ve got a party to prepare for.” The room smirked and did the same and got ready.



~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~

The music was bright an merry as the party proceeded, the rangers participated some but mainly stood back in the shadows, lingering with their cloaks hiding them from being seen. The hobbits would wonder why their actions seemed so odd but they didn’t mind-rangers weren’t known for their bubbly attitude. “Care for a drink?” Pieces asked Lenia as Bilbo readied himself for a speech, “Of course.” She replied and took the mug of drink Pieces handed to her, “Merry and Pippin set off the dragon firework,” She mused sipping it, taste of alcohol familiar to her tongue. “I see Gandalf has them working in the kitchen.” Pieces laughed, “I never knew two hobbit’s could cause so much hub-bub.”
Lenia laughed, “Never underestimate any race, they always surprise you.” She spoke sipping it again. Pieces couldn’t deny what she said, “I think I’ll go have a seat,” He said, placed a hand on her arm and joined the other rangers sitting in the crowd. Lenia however didn’t sit. She stood in the back, within the shadows, hood upon her head, blue eyes watching the scene beneath dark lashes. Bilbo stood and the crowd silenced, Lenia raised the cup to her lips and allowed the drink to dance on her lips before swallowing it as she listened to Bilbo begin his speech. “And I like half of you, half as well as you deserve,” He said and she lowered the cup, eyes narrowed lightly at the oddness of thoughs words. She traced her tongue lightly across her lips in an act to wet them. She tilted her head and looked over at Gandalf who was staring at Bilbo inquisitively while puffing on his pipe. “I regret to say,” Bilbo restarted after muttering to himself, “that this is the end.” He paused, placing his hands behind his back, “I bid you all a very fond farewell.” With that he disappeared and Sauron’s voice blared within Lenia’s ears so much she barely heard the gasps from the crowd in front of her. The other ranger’s rose with the crowd, all but Tripton as shocked as everyone else. Lenia turned immediately, placed her drink down and headed back to the house. The voices were too much and curiosity was taking over-as well as inner instinct. She entered the house and shut the door behind her, staring ahead at the table before her. Bilbo Baggin’s had the one ring, Sauron’s ring, her people’s fate. Her fate. She lowered her hood and walked over the table seating herself at it. The other’s were most likely on their way and she’d see them soon enough so she need not worry about what they were doing. Tripton would know where she was so they would not worry either. She started at the table for some time, deep in thought before the door opened, however it was not the Rangers who entered, it was Gandalf. She looked up, “Gandalf?”
“Lenia,” He shut the door behind him, “I cannot stay long-watch Bilbo’s house-the ring is there, I must go, I will return in time. Be prepared for anything the next time I arrive.” He turned again but Lenia spoke nothing, he looked back, her eyes were back at the table. “What is it child?” He asked, still rushed but yet concerned.
“Tis nothing, Gandalf,” She said standing, “I’ll ready our things and inform the others when they arrive.”
“Lenia,” his voice was dangerous and she turned to look at him, “Yes?” She asked not daring to disobey him. “What is the matter.”
“You have other things to worry about Gandalf, I can inform you of it later, it really isn’t that important.”
Gandalf looked at her, sighed, turned and left. It wasn’t long before the door opened and the rangers came in, “Why was Gandalf here?” One of them asked.
“Informing us to be prepared for anything, he’ll be back to give us our orders-we have to watch Bilbo’s house. The one ring is there.” Whispers stirred as Lenia spoke. Tripton turned, “You heard her, let’s ready our things-I have a feeling our time here is nearly up.” Quickly they scattered, taking turns at watching Bilbo’s home and got their things together.

They waited in silence for Gandalf’s return, sitting and staring into the distance mainly. Lenia sat by the window, staring down the road and watching Bilbo’s house. Her mind was going non-stop as she thought long and hard about Sauron, and the one ring. The thoughts were making her tired and feel over heated she placed her head on the window, closing her eyes only momentarily. That was, until she heard the shriek. Immediately she sat up and noticed Tripton had dropped what he had been holding, obviously hearing the same sound. “You two okay?” Jumper asked. 'Of course,' Lenia thought, 'they’re mortal men, their hearing typically isn’t as attuned as me and Tripton’s.'
Lenia barely looked at her brother who was already reaching for his sword as the door flew open, Gandalf entering-his figure barely standing out in the pitch dark. Every ranger stood, even Lenia, when it happend. “Gather your things,” Gandalf spoke quickly, but not to the lot of them, only to Tripton and Lenia, he grabbed their arms gently and walked them deeper into the house quickly. “Leave now; make it look like you’ve never been here, head for Bree-to the Prancing Pony. Strider will be waiting for you-Frodo’s headed there, he has the ring. Don’t stop, don’t look back, ride hard and follow the scents and your knowing if you reach a stop you are unsure of. Be carefully, the Nazgul are headed this way-you two,” He looked at Lenia and Tripton, “Are in charge, stay safe and off the road, ride on the hidden paths." He looked at Tripton, "You're familiar with them," He looked back between the both of them, "Only stop when you reach Bree, there enter-ask if a mister Underhill or Strider is there, if not you and Tripton put together your gifts-you’ll be able to find them. You must. Strider will instruct you of what is needed-with the Nazgul after them there will be no shortage of needing of your service.”
“Yes, Gandalf,” Tripton said as Gandalf released them, “Keep your weapons with you-leave nothing behind. They won’t hesitate killing you.” He looked at Lenia who looked at him, his voice dropping to a whisper only she could hear. There was more shrieks, Sauron’s voice was fading but her heart was racing. “You are ready,” He whispered to her, “You are a warrior-a ranger, Aragorn and your brother taught you well, if it comes down to a fight do not allow them to throw you to the side.” His eyes met hers, “I know you are worried about the others….the under trained and inexperienced but there is nothing you can do for them. Educate them the best you can-that is the best you can do.” She nodded and the shriek came louder as they killed. “Go.” Gandalf told them and disappeared behind their door once more. Quickly Lenia scooped up her weaponry and helped the others make it look as if they had never been there. After they dashed out to their horses. “Ride hard,” Tripton commanded getting onto his horse and flipping up his hood, “Don’t hold back, don’t slow down, just go as fast as possible.”
Lenia thrusted herself onto Anita’s back, patted her neck and ordered her, in Elvish to ride hard over and over again. It was only seconds between when they left and when the Nazgul passed by.
“How long are we supposed to ride?” One of the rangers asked.
Lenia turned her head, blinking suddenly untired as she did so, “until we reach Bree-you do not want to mess with the Nazgul. They are nasty things-men that are neither dead nor a live. They work for Sauron-seeking the Ring, wanting the ring. They will stop at nothing to do so.” She turned her hooded head back on the road ahead of her.
“Oh great.” Jumper muttered.
Suddenly Tripton pulled his horse to a halt and Lenia followed suit, “What are you doing?!” Pieces whispered harshly, “Gandalf said-”
Lenia held out a hand to ask for silence. Her blue eyes wide, “What is it?” Another ranger asked. “The path has been destroy.” Tripton said, rearing his horse and turned it around, “Up the hill, we’ll have to take the longer route.”
“We’ll never catch them before they leave.” Pieces said, “They’ll be days ahead of us.”
Lenia reared her horse as well and turned it around, “We can ride several days in several hours. Tripton and I will be able to find them-just listen to us. Trust us,” Tripton started up the hill and Lenia tightened her grip on her reins, “That is one of the most important things. You must trust those with whom you associate otherwise you all will fall in battle.” She urged her horse on again and took after her brother, the others following suit as well. She was beginning to not like what was going on, the only thing that could destroy such a path would be the Nazgul. They were close, but were they close enough to help Strider and the Hobbits if need be.
They rode all night not stopping once; it was nearly morning when they reached Brie and the prancing pony. Tiredness should have swayed over them by now but Lenia and Tripton were far from tired however the ones that were less experienced were showing their weakness. “How can we help you fine lady?” The man at the desk asked leaning down towards Lenia.
“Is there a mister Underhill or a Strider here?” She asked, hood still on, the eyes looking at her made her uncomfortable.
“No miss, you just missed them, they left several hours ago.”
“Thank you,” She said and left quickly while the man began to ask her something about a drink. She threw down her hood as the heat outside picked up. “They left several hours ago.” She spoke jumping onto her horse. "I know," Tripton said, "Pieces talked with a merchant-they sold them a horse sometime ago." He looked at her, “Which way.” She looked at him shocked. He smirked, “Take the lead.”
Lenia smiled lightly at her brother and looked around, “This way.” She said without hesitation and barely had to ask Anita to go fast, she knew. “What was that about?” Lenia asked looking at Tripton as he rode up beside her, “I heard Gandalf,” His dark eyes looked at hers, “and he’s right Lenia, you’re as good as one of us. It’s about time you took charge.” He smirked, “And I didn’t want Aragorn to be the lucky one that got to give you that first too.”
Lenia smiled lightly and pulled her hood up as the sun shone around the trees. “Are we going to stop ever?” Another one asked. Lenia looked at Tripton, “They’re under experienced, Tripton, what can we ask of them? I know we must ride but-we can’t blame them for asking.” She whispered, “We’re used to this, we’ve been trained for it. They haven’t.”
Tripton frowned pulling his hood up again too, “I know,” He whispered and turned his head, “We will stop, but not now.” He turned back to the road ahead, “We better find Strider soon-I don’t think they’ll last long without sleep and nourishment.”
Lenia stared ahead into space, “Sauron’s voice is returning, we’re going in the right direction-we must continue. We’ll find them soon enough, we just must continue this pace.” She looked down at Anita and stroked her neck, “You’ll rest soon.” She whispered to her and continued to focus on the road ahead of her.


~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~


“Are we close?” Pieces asked noticing Tripton and Lenia’s horses had slowed down. “Very” she whispered, pulling her horse to a halt. It was pitch black out do to the night and the stars and moon was casting an eerie glow down upon them. She slipped off her horse and walked forward, the others, most of them confused, followed. Beneath the warmth of her hood she could see tracks on the ground, one man the other hobbits. Sometimes there were perks to the things in life you hate the most. She held up a hand, ordering the others to stay back, spread out, and hide in the shadows. Tripton stayed by her side. “Where do you think Strider is from?” Merry asked Sam and the others. That started up a rather large conversation of what traits of different areas of middle earth he possessed. “Shh,” Aragorn’s voice came across strong and clear, “lower the firelight-the Nazgul are still around, lower your voices we don't want to wake anything.”
Tripton took the chance he walked out from behind his tree, still dressed in his ranger clothing. At first he was in the shadow, then in the moonlight and then finally in the fire light. “And what’s this?” Tripton said, causing the group to look at him. His face was hidden by his hood and its shadow.
Lenia smiled lightly to herself, brought up her hood and stepped from behind her tree, slowly, gracefully, stealthily, and eerily up to him. “A ranger and four Hobbits,” She spoke carefully, let an air of mystery linger on her voice, “unusual things for this area of the wood.”
A small grin crept onto Aragorn’s lips, “Saber, Shadow,” He met both of their eyes despite their hood’s shadows, “Gandalf told me too except you and your company.”
Lenia and Tripton lowered their hoods, motioning for their company to come out from hiding, “Hope we’re not too late.” Tripton said and Aragorn shook his head, “We fell behind,” Lenia spoke, “The hidden path to Breewas destroyed we had to use a rougher one.”
“The black riders?” Aragorn asked and they nodded, “So this is your crew,” He asked and they nodded, “We were in the process of bringing them to you for more experiance….however, we were all detoured, apparently.”
“Kalar car o shol ialaes aezaesolaer valaes shor o?"(Gandalf had you bring under experienced rangers with you?) Aragorn asked and Lenia nodded, “Shi cali bai tyli, si shaesi shor iar shael Kalar talaer iadyl iar eil ci car sherolaer sai eirael sai-si car sai tysti." (We have no choice, they were with us when Gandalf called upon us and he had business to attend to-they had to come.)
Aragorn nodded, “You all look wary, sit down and rest,” He looked at the men, “eat, sleep, build up your strength.” He looked and Lenia and Tripton, “As for you two, may we talk before you do so too?”
“We could stay up forever if necessary, Aragorn.” Lenia said and he smiled, “That’s just what I need to hear, come on a long.” He took them aside and sat down on a rock, the siblings followed suit. He lowered his voice, “As you know there are nine black riders after us,” they nodded, “Frodo has the ring, the other three are companions.” They nodded again, “We’re headed to Imaldris, Rivendal-your uncle’s house.”
“What is it you need us to do?” Tripton asked, leaning forward, still unmoving his cloak from his head. “We’re prepared to help you in anyway.”
“That is a comfort to hear, my old friend,” Aragorn said looking at Tripton, “Because we do need your help.” He looked back at the two of them, “The hobbits are tired of running, but if we don’t run we will not out run the Ring Wraiths.”
“You want us to distract the ring wraiths?” Lenia asked, eyes meeting Aragorn’s.
“tystalia shael ialaes aezaesolaer, sher air air mystaerol shi baer." (I hate to ask it of you-with your company being under experienced, but it is something we need.)
“Then it will be something we will do.” Tripton said, “Our Company will understand, they are good fighters that I know-they just haven’t had much training. They’ll be alright, if I have my way we won’t fight we’ll just keep them running.”
“Alright.” Aragorn said and looked at them, “Rest both of you, you need it.” He placed a hand on either of their shoulders, stood and walked over to everyone else.
“Shadow,” Tripton said looking at his sister, “look for Wraith plant I’ll look for the Orcs-we need to stalk up anyway, now is the time.” Lenia nodded, stood and went looking. Quickly she gathered it and met the others around the fire. It wasn’t till then did she sit down and lower her hood. “Here,” Aragorn said handing her food, “Thank you,” She spoke and slowly took a bite remembering how good food tasted. Aragorn sat beside Tripton and began talking in whisper with him.
“Who is she?” Pippin asked whispering and the other hobbits shrugged.
“Maybe she’s one of them rangers too.” Merry said.
“She is,” Frodo spoke looking at her, Lenia looked at him from the corner of her eye. He didn’t seem bothered by this though, “She’s one of rangers that were at Bilbo’s party and lingering around the Shire.”
“She’s an elf.” Sam whispered watching her, “She’s an Elvin ranger.”
“That’s possible?” Merry asked and Lenia looked at them, “Quite so, my friends.” She said, “There are few of us but despite it we do have a few.” Her sudden words took back the hobbits and she smiled lightly, placing her food down and looking at them, “My name is Lenia, the rangers know me as Shadow.”
“I’m Frodo,” Frodo said looking at her, “This is Sam, Merry and Pippin-are you friends of Strider?”
“Yes, and Gandalf,” Eyes darted towards her, “he sent us after you before journeying to go see Saruman in Isengard.”
“Oh,” The hobbits said. “Have you seen him since?’ Sam asked and Lenia shook her head, “No…why? Did he not meet you?”
“He never showed,” Frodo said and Lenia stared at the fire. “How odd…” She whispered staring ahead. Gandalf not showing was quite unlike his nature.

"Remember the honey?" Aragorn asked Tripton and a smirk crossed Lenia's brother's face, "I've never seen you so mad in my entire life, my friend." He placed an empty dish down onto of Aragorn's, "However, I will say your return action was wonderful."

"Tree oil, slippery elm and maple syrup," Aragorn said looking into the distance of the dark wood smirking in rememberence. "I was sore for weeks," Tripton said and both men let out quiet hardy laughs.

"You two and your pranking," Lenia said shaking her head, "You got eachother in far too much trouble when upi were younger and given the chance you still would-I don't understand your relationship."

"You aren't supposed to, sister," Tripton said with a smile. "No one is."

"With that," Aragorn said with a smile, "I believe we should all get some rest, you all deserve it and need it." Quickly they all got up and arranged sleeping areas. "You'll leave at the break of dawn," Aragorn told Lenia, "I've already told Tripton, you'll head the opposite way as us and take the long way around."

"Alright," She said nestling down.

"Tired?" He asked and Lenia nodded, "A bit," she admitted and he smiled, "Rest, tia thol." (my friend)

Lenia smiled kissed his cheek and leaned against the tree watching as he walked off, "Everything's together, all we have to do is get up and go tomorrow morning," Tripton said sitting down beside her, "All we have to do now is sleep."

"Sounds nice," Lenia said and put her head on her brother, he smiled, "I thought it did too," he rested his head next to hers, "Night." He said and kissed her head, "Night, Tript." She yawned before falling asleep.

"If we have anymore things, I may die." Jumper said handing Lenia one of their supplies to be put on their horses, "I didn't know we carried this much with us."

Lenia smiled, "Yeah, we did, kind of neat don't you think?" Jumper rose an eyebrow, "Uh. No." She smiled again, "Come on, our horses are like superhorses for being able to do all of this-you don't think that's neat?"

"I think it'd be neat to carry less things-won't this all slow us down?" Pieces asked.

"No, not one bit," Tripton said tightening straps on his horses saddle to secure things. "Our horses are fast and strong, we'll be fine."

"Hold to that," Aragorn said handing Tripton his sword, "last thing I need to hear is you've gotten yourself into a scrap you can't get out of."

Tripton laughed, "When have you known me unable to get out of a scrap."

"That is true," He tossed Lenia her sword, "Don't let him terrorize anyone or anything too much-okay?"

Lenia smiled getting onto Anita, "Will do."

"I'll see you back in Rivendell." Aragorn said, stepping back as the other rangers mounted their horses. "Shi tasaerer, shi mari-air'm palaesyr. Ai shyr jhoji sai mi o eir eindral mystaedae." (Be careful, be safe-it's dangerous. I would like to see you all again someday.)

"Like that'll be a problem." Tripton took his reigns, "I'd just haunt your dreams for the rest of your life."

Aragorn left, bidded them all farewell and the group took off. "Once again," Lenia said, "Your relationship is a wonder, Tript."

Tripton smiled, "That's just they way Strider and I like to keep it." She smiled, shook her head and followed her brother. "Let out the plants," Tripton told her and she turned to two of the Rangers, "Let them out." She turned back, "We won't have long," Tripton said, "Whatever wraiths follow it won't hesitate meeting up with us nearly immediately."

"Whoops."

Both rangers halted their horses and turned, "Whoops?" They asked. "I accidently let out something wrong...." One of the rangers spoke.

"What on earth could you of..." Tripton trailed of looking at the familiar herb bag and then hearing all too familiar shrieks and cries. "Orcs!" He hissed turning his horse back around. "Both orcs and wraiths." Lenia whispered below her breath. She looked at Tripton, "Shi'vi or bestaesaer." (We're out numbered.)

Tripton raked a hand through his curly black hair staring ahead, allowing a deep breath to flow from his nose as he pierced his lips. "And Pieces you and I have the most experiance."

"I've never fought a battle, Tripton." Lenia said slipping her bow and an arrow from their case, "I have barely any experiance."

"You're good with a sword and bow, you've beaten both Strider and I in combat practice. You're capable." Tripton said readying his sword, "Air air byr o eil Ai, Ai thaes thys." (It is not you and I, I fear for) Lenia swallowed and glanced back at the inexperianced rangers behind them who were readied as much as possibly. Letting a deep breath out her barely part lips and taking another in throw her nose she lifted her bow and arrow hitting the first of the orcs square in the head. "And so it begans." Tripton uttered.

The fighting seemed endless and it was not long before each of their new found friends and companions had been cut down by Orcs or Wraiths. Tripton and Lenia had, by whatever force, been made the last ones standing. A Uruk-hai* went to attack Lenia and Tripton threw one of his largest arrows into it's skin in attempt to deture it, "You!" he yelled at the creature, the last thing he wanted was his babysister being lost to such a foul creature.

"Pyl's!" (Don't!) Lenia shouted as the creature began to turn at her elder brother she slammed her sword into it's thigh causing it to slam her to the ground with the force as if he was trying to kill her.

Tripton turned, angered by the creature, to defend his sister. The thought of loosing her, as they had the others, made anger well inside him, and if something happend to her he would not be alone in that feeling. He couldn't let it happen. He wouldn't. Tripton twirled his sword in his fingers as he ran toward the creature, if there was one thing he'd learned from his cousins and ranger friends it was that you never leave a man or woman in this case, if they were in trouble. "Why don't you pick on someone you're own size." He gripped his sword and the Orc turned toward him. Lenia ripped her sword from the flesh of the creature, "Don't, Tript." She begged, this whole thing was begining to frighten her.

The 4 wraiths, who had disapeared for an odd amount of time lingering in the distance, appeared out of no where behind Tripton, fully armed and prepared to strick. "Tripton!" She screamed, horrified as a dagger slammed toward her brother who ducked out of the way.

"Kaer or os caesi." (Get out of here.) He shot his eyes towards Lenia, she was more seniored than the others had been however this was the first battle she'd ever been in and he was not going to let it be the last.

"No." She said defiantly as she stood, the only Orcs still standing seemed to have lost interest with her and was ripping appart the already dead. "HEY!" She screamed at the Wraiths who were focused on her brother but they did stop pursuit, "Lenia, don't-I will not lose you to these creatures!"

Lenia didn't listen, "HEY!!" She shrieked once more this time picking of a rock and throwing it at one of them, hitting it somewhere in it's face . "LENIA!" Her brother said sharply and turned to look at her, "Don't you dare do that again," his tone was sharp as he ran to her side, "Don't scare me like that and don't put yourself in that kind of danger." He looked behind her between the orcs and behind him at the Wraiths, "Can you conjure fire?"

Lenia looked thoughtful only temporarily, the Wraiths were still coming, "Lenia, can you?" She blinked, "I don't-I don't know. I haven't tried, Gandalf hasn't-mom hasn't-I don't....we don't....you know I...."

"Try." He whispered and she nodded, "Yes, brother." He took her arm, "If it doesn't work, don't linger-find Anita and leave, immediately. Don't look back, don't worry about me, just run."

Lenia swallowed and nodded, "Alright." She said and picked acouple sticks up in her hands while Tripton fought off the now interested Orcs and Uruk-hai. She stared at the tips but all that would come were piles of tiny smoke stacks. "Lenia?" Tripton asked and she tried harder, more smoke. "It won't work, Tripton and I can do anything with water with it near."

"Try harder, just one more time." He urged and she swallowed, shooting a few arrows before trying once more, still no success. She placeds them on the ground and looked at Tripton, "It isn't going to work!" She shouted.

"Alright just-Lenia!" He shouted looking behind her, she turned and dove just as an Uruk-hai slammed a sharp blade down where her head would have been. "For the love of the gods, Lenia, would you pay attention to your surroundings if Strider was here he would-" He began as he started to turn around, sword ready for an attack but the Wraiths seemed to have dissapeared.

"Where'd they go?" She asked sitting up and rubbing her am that was sore from a stab wound and throwing a few daggers into some Orcs as if it was nothing. He didn't respond but he was gripping his sword tightly, something wasn't right he knew that, his eyes were grazing the wood. Suddenly he heard four shrills from all angles and turned in time to see four wraiths come upon him.

"TRIPTON!" Lenia screamed as she stood and attempted to run and help him but she was too late. He didn't have time to fight, it was as if he was frozen and allowing them to kill him it was so fast. The four wraiths towered over him, long swords shining deadly and within an instant her older brother was diced right before her eyes. "No." She murmured wanting to cry, she wanted to fall to pieces so bad it hurt but she shook her head, she had to get out alive, she had to get away-she wasn't going to let Tripton's death be in vain. "O ber por si shyl sol" (You just did the wrong thing) She said aloud and readied her weapons. There were more shrills as the Wraith's looked for the Ring and this alerted the Uruk-hai and Orcs once more causing a mass battle. Lenia killed off all the Orcs and Uruk-hai, except for the tallest and the biggest. He slammed her into a tree causing her head to slam against the hard bark of the tree. She winced as blood trickled down her face and through her hair. She took a hand and wiped it off before she stood, took her sword and beheaded the Uruk-hai. Placing her sword in it's case and made her way towards where her brother's things were oddly abandoned by the now evanescent Wraiths. She crouched down and picked up his Quiver, arrows still inside and his bow placing it on her back. Slowly she reached down and picked up his sword, tracing her fingers along it's bloodied blade. "Dear heavens." She murmurred wrapping it up and placing it in it's holding that was near by and hooked it on her belt next to her own. She closed her eyes, allowing tears to streak her cheeks before opening her eyes at the sounds of twigs breaking. Glancing down she saw 4 sticks, biting her lips she picked them up and looked at them, staring hard. It started as smoke and then slowly a spark light until it was a shining fire. Taking a breath she got up and threw each stick at the four Wraiths causing them to run off.*** Relieved Lenia sank down the ground, exhaustion running through he as she surveyed her extensive number of wounds. Twigs broke behind her and a whiny could be heard, lethargicly she turned to see Anita's white and black figure walking over to her. Anita stuck her head down and nudged Lenia's head, "Hi my friend." She whispered watching as Anita looked around at the dead men, Orc, Uruk-hai and horses. "They've crossed to Valor," She said standing bracing herself against Anita before mounting her.
"We need to get out of here." She told her, "I have no idea where we are....take us towards the closest city." Anita immediately obeyed while Lenia struggled to figure out where exactly they were.



**What's a dug-bee?????
*not sure how you spell that...
***I did this because Aragorn and Lenia can think a lot a like and this proves it.

Part Three:

The real next chapter. :)

Disclaimer: The only thing I own are my made up plot twists, made up charactors and places, other than that it's 100% J.R.R. Tolkien or the movie company that made it a movie (....erg not sure what it's called.....) I've used several lines/things from the movies in this, I DO NOT OWN THEM.

Copyrights: Lenia, Lord Sryton, Rhamdal, Kadden, Tripton, Pieces, Jumper, Ashanti ©Katherine LaGassie
All others© J.R.R. Tolkien and Peter Jackson and his film company


Fan Fiction Book: Shadow of a Doubt

Chapter 8: A Dangerous Journey

By: Katherine LaGassie



“How far must we travel?” Pippin asked looking up at Lenia as she jumped off her horse. “Across the Misty Mountains, correct Gandalf?” She asked, turning her eyes upon him. They were all weary from walking across mountain ranges-all but a few anyway.
Gandalf looked back at her, Pippin ridding on her back as many as the hobbits had before caused a smile to rim his face, “Yes, we will cross the Misty Mountains.”
“Why not cross through the mines of Moria?” Gimli pressed, eyes darted towards him. “Mines of the dwarves, you’d have a lovely welcome full of food and jewels.”
“It is not welcome’s we’re looking for.” Legolas said, “It’s a path to Mordor.”
“The Mines of Moria are too dangerous, Gimli,” Gandalf said pausing as grass finally crunched beneath his feet in place of stone, “We rest here, tomorrow we move on.”
“Here we are,” Lenia said and put Pippin down, “Feeling better?” He laughed, "Oh very," he said as a broad smile crossed Lenia’s face. It took no time for them to set up some sort of camp within the nook and crannies of the rocky mountain hill top. Boromir began ‘play’ fighting with Merry and Pippin to exercise their skill in battles. Frodo and Sam sat eating freshly cooked food while watching them, Gandalf sat far away from the group over looking them with Gimli walking around close by to him and Legolas doing the same. “I’d say, if someone asked me, which I know they’re not, we’re taking the long way around.” Gimli uttered and Lenia shook her head biting into a small piece of food. “He says a lot of things without us asking his opinion.” She spoke sitting down beside of Aragorn. Aragorn smiled eating food himself he turned from giving advice to Merry and Pippin to looking at her, “That I cannot deny.” Lenia smiled lightly and stared ahead, watching as Boromir played with the hobbits. “I’m warned against him.” She ushed.
Aragorn looked at her, “Boromir is not a bad man, Lenia.”
Lenia stared ahead, towards the White Mountains and Lothlorien, “It is not that which I am warned of,” She looked at him, “It tis not Boromir either,” Aragorn looked at her, “Sauron and Saruman are watching us closely-I fear walking up those mountains, there is something waiting for us there I wish not to see. The same goes for Moria. There is no easy way now, we are following a treacherous path and no matter which way we take we risk being defeated, killed or outnumbered.” Her eyes moved down to her food within her hands, the food she’d barely touched. “They are waiting.”
Aragorn rested a hand on her shoulder, “I know they are, Lenia, and I share your worry and your pain. You are not alone, Lenia, you never are and never will be.” She looked at him, “That I know,”
He dropped his hand and continued eating, “So you and Legolas…” Lenia looked at him, “What about Legolas and I?” Aragorn glanced at her, “Are you two…..”
Lenia laughed abruptly, “Oh don’t you dare, Aragorn!” He smiled as she returned his glance, “Legolas and I are just friends-merely for the reason that he saved my life and guided me to Rivendell.” Aragorn looked at her, “Really? Then why is he wearing your necklace.”
“You saw?’
“It was a bit hard not to, my friend.” He said and looked over at Legolas, “Now if I remember right, you and your cousin would only do that for one reason and you never even gave that to Ma-“
“It was a token of friendship, and I bet him he wouldn’t do it. He said you were odd for carrying it-it was a challenge, nothing more, Aragorn, I’m not an idiot. You do not fall in love with a complete stranger-especially not in times like this.” Lenia looked at her, her blue eyes reflecting the murky blue of the sky.
Aragorn went to speak but his eyes caught Merry and Pippin beating up Boromir. Swiftly he rose to break up the ‘pounding’ saying “Gentlemen that’s quite enough,” A smirk crept upon Lenia lips as she bit into her own apple. His attempted was foiled by being tripped by the three and loosing his apple. Her eyes just sparkled at the full of mischief was she smiled behind the apple, a merry laugh escaping her lips sounding like Christmas bells.
Suddenly Legolas ran to the other side of Gandalf, staring out at something in the distance drawing Gandalf’s attention to it as well. “What is that?” Sam asked looking at the mystery that had the others captivated. “Nothing, just a wisp of cloud.” Gimli said but it didn’t seem to lower curiosity. “It’s moving fast, against the wind.” Boromir spoke standing behind Aragorn. Lenia took the apple done from her mouth and stared at the cloud, stood and narrowed her eyes to see better than before. “Crebain from Dunland!” Legolas yelled, “Hide, and head for cover!” Aragorn said. “Spies from Isengard,” She swore and then took off up the rocks to help hide their things. “Hurry!” Boromir called. “Dunce the fire!” Lenia said to Sam as she did so.
“This way,” Legolas said grabbing Lenia’s arm and pulling her beneath the bush with him. “You can hate me for it later, Lenia, but now.” He placed a finger to his lips as they watched the bird fly across the sky. “How about now,” She hissed as the creatures passed, “Now would be a perfect time,” He concluded, allowing her to stand.
“Spies of Saruman, the passage South is being watched. We cannot stay here,” Gandalf said, “it will not be long before they’ll be back-possibly in more numbers and possibly with friends. We must take the pass of Caradhras immediately.”
Lenia grabbed her things and scowled at Legolas, “I could have found cover myself. I do know how to take care of myself, sire.”
Legolas picked up his own but instead of returning her scowl he smirked. “I don’t doubt that one bit, Lenia, but I was just trying to help.”
“Well when I’m stuck in a burning building and can’t get out you can help, when I’m falling down a black hole and can’t help myself you can help. When I’m searching for cover you will NOT help.” Lenia spoke looking at him, “I may be thousands of years younger than you Prince Greenleaf, but I can handle myself. I have for ages and I can still now. Aragorn would not have allowed me to come if I wasn’t ready-none of them would. I would not have survived when so many hadn’t that day if I wasn’t prepared. I am strong Legolas Greenleaf of Mirkwood and I can protect myself.” With that she whipped around, whacking him in the process and followed Gandalf and Aragorn up the mountain. Legolas raised an eyebrow and watched her back as she skillfully climbed and jumped over rocks after them. “She’s absolutely nuts.” He uttered and began up the mountain himself.

“Lenia,” Lenia looked over her shoulder at Legolas, “Legolas.” She replied simply, looking back up the White Mountain. She was some distance from Aragorn. “Want some-" Her eyes flashed at him dangerous and he took in a breath. “I will see you at the top of the mountain than.” With that he quickly caught up to Gandalf. Lenia glared, “What does he think I can’t keep up or something?” She hissed beneath her breath and raced to meet up to Aragorn. “Legolas is about on my last ner…” She began to Aragorn as Frodo lost his balance and fell back. “Whoa,” She spoke kneeling down and helping Aragorn help him up. “You okay, Frodo?”
Frodo began to nod until he saw his ring gone and within Boromir’s hands. “It’s such a pity that we endure so much fear over such a small thing…” Boromir began making foolish unsurprising talk-as if hypnotized by the ring. “Give the ring to Frodo,” Aragorn demanded, slipping his hand around his sword and putting the other on Frodo’s shoulder as Lenia stood behind Frodo and rested her own hand on his shoulder. “Boromir, Give the ring to Frodo.” He repeated when Boromir didn’t respond. “Oh, of course, as you wish. I don’t care” Boromir said, giving the ring to Frodo and ruffling his hair. Lenia nearly stumbled back-Sauron was poisoning Boromir’s mind and the ring wanted nothing more than to be within his hands. Aragorn whipped his hand off his sword and grabbed her, not speaking but just steadied her, patted Frodo’s shoulder and then walked up the mountain once more.
“Ready, Frodo?” Lenia asked looking at him. “Yes,” Frodo said and nodded looking back at her, “There’s something wrong with him.” He said and Lenia nodded, “Yes, there is Frodo, but it’s not him-it’s Sauron. Boromir is a good man, but all men have faults and when someone like Sauron has found it they pry on it. It’ll all be alright, though.” She placed a hand on his head in a loving manner, “I promise it will be, Frodo, you are strong and so are we-there is no stopping us.”
Frodo matched her eyes, “I trust you.” He followed her as she helped him up the mountain, “I believe you.” She smiled, “I’m glad, Frodo.”
“Your home,” Frodo began, “Where is it? I’ve never heard of it before.”
She placed her hand on her quiver’s strap, “You wouldn’t have, it rests by Mordor, Minas Tirith and Gondor-they, Rivendell and Lothlorien are the only ones that know of it. Well, that is, that I’m aware know of it. Mordor and Sauron wish to keep it that way.”
“Mordor?” He looked at her, “How close?”
Lenia gazed up the mountain, watching the others climb, “From my parents window you can see the black gates as if they were baring down upon you themselves.”
“How is it ever left standing?” He marveled, “Why hasn’t it been destroyed?”
“A long time ago it nearly was,” She swallowed, remembering the stories she’d heard, “before Sauron was last defeated my people and my home were nearly destroyed. Illness caused by dark magic took them over and Orcs destroyed our walls and killed our people. Our crops died, our water poisoned and our people slowly passed to shadow one by one.” She glanced to see Frodo’s eyes fixed upon her. She turned her eyes up again and focused on where the others were. “When Sauron was supposedly defeated our people were able to flourish, everything was turned right. But lately, despair has taken over once more and passed events are reoccurring.”
“What will happen if Sauron isn’t going to be destroyed?”
Lenia paused, “My home will be no more.” She looked at Frodo, “But how different is that from everything else?”
“None,’ Frodo agreed. Lenia smiled, “Come on, let’s go catch up to the others.” She said and helped him up towards the others more. “Glad to see you decided to join us, she-elf.” Gimli said looking at Lenia who rose an eyebrow at him.
“Well, dwarf, I was just making you feel special. I figured if I let you go ahead you’d feel superior.” She shrugged, “Can’t be a hurt to make you feel what you aren’t.”
“You aren’t helping him any,” Legolas said from behind as Gimli glared at her. Lenia shrugged, “Eh,” She looked at Gimli, “he’ll get over, I do.”
Legolas smiled lightly and shook his head as they followed Gandalf up the mountain. “I’ve got a bad feeling about this,” Lenia uttered as the trudged up the mountain. “Something’s not right.”
Legolas paused, “I believe you’re right,” He said as snow piled up and others began to question the way as well. “Oh no,” He sprung from beside her and up beside Gandalf until he was in front. “There’s a foul voice on the air!”
A lead weight formed in Lenia’s stomach as Gandalf spoke errantly, “its Saruman!” She pulled her cloak closer, the bitter air cutting through her like a knife and whipping her hair uncontrollably. “He’s trying to bring down the mountain, we must turn back!” Aragorn shouted over the sound of the wind. He said no as Merry slipped and fell at her feet; quickly she picked him up as she heard Gandalf fighting against Saruman with magic. “Gandalf!” She yelled, “What can I do?” But it was too late lightning struck the mountain and large chunks broke off. “He’s bringing down the mountain!” Aragorn yelled.
Gandalf turned to her, “Cover the hobbits there is nothing more you can do in that time!” It was no quicker he’d finished those words and she’d obeyed than the mountain tops fell upon her and her companions. The snow against her skin was freezing and it made her limps feel numb. Breath felt hard to find and she awoke to herself coughing on snow into snow. Barely able to she gently opened her eyes, snow covered her and Merry who hadn’t even opened his eyes yet. Lethargically she raised her numb arms and broke through the snow with bare fingers, barely realizing Merry was doing the same. A hand grabbed hers and Merry’s and yanked them up, “There you are,” Aragorn said helping her above the snow some while Boromir helped Merry. “What now Gandalf?” Lenia asked looking at him, surprised she could move her lips they were so cold. “We can’t go this way, Saruman will just try and destroy us further-we must go another way.”
Immediately people erupted with ways to get to where they needed without using the mountain. Boromir believing they should make for the gap of Rohan but Aragorn believing it too dangerous as it took them close to Isengard, and then of course Gimli believe Moria to be the best way. “Silence!” Gandalf requested, “Let Frodo choose, he is the ring bearer.”
Frodo looked around at everyone while thinking. Lenia watched as his eyes darted unsure until they rested on Gimli. Boromir shouting at how they couldn’t stay there because it would be the death of the Hobbits, she had a deadly feeling if they stayed it would be the death of them all. He turned to Gandalf, “We’ll go through the mines of Moria.”
Lenia looked at Gandalf who sighed, “So be it.” He uttered and stood, “Hurry, before Saruman realizes his attempted was not worthy of a defeat.”
“Come on Merry,” Lenia said pulling him to his feet finding ability in unusable numb hands. “Hurry along.” She spoke as she directed him towards Boromir.
“Lenia, keep your eyes on the west.” Gandalf called to her and she nodded. “Yes, Gandalf.” She replied and paused allowing other’s to go before her.
“You alright?” Legolas asked walking beside her as they headed down the mountain. “Once I can feel my fingers and other limbs again I’ll let you know.” She replied with a slight smile, eyes darting towards Isengard constantly. She felt relieved of leaving the mountains but dread of heading to Moria. Legolas smiled back a bit and took her hands within his, “What are you doing?” She demanded.
He smiled, “Do you not trust me, Lenia?” She swallowed and allowed him to slowly rubbed her hands with his fingers feeling gentle heat flow through them and feeling return.
Lenia looked up at him, “Thank you.” She said as he released her hands and fell behind her. “It was my pleasure.” He said looking back at her. The wind had still not quieted so the going was slightly slow until they reached the bottom and headed upon a different route, one that would lead them to Moria.
“Could you have stopped that, back there-if you had known?” Legolas inquired looking at Lenia.
“I do not know, I couldn’t have tried and it may have helped. We don’t know the potential of what I can do-my mother is quite powerful but I’m only half wizard. It is unsure what I’m capable of really.” Lenia said looking at him, feeling lighter now that they were away from Saruman’s magic.
“So essentially, I could be traveling with a deadly person.” Legolas clarified looking at her.
Lenia laughed, “My dear lord, you are traveling with far more that one deadly person.” To that Legolas smiled, “I suppose you are quite right.”
“As always.” Aragorn added tossing them water, “take advantage of the pace, I don’t believe there will be slacking when in Moria.”
“Of course not, what lies in those caves is nearly as frightening as Orcs-and as dangerous if not more.” Lenia spoke sipping the water and handing it to Legolas, “I wish not to stay there longer than necessary either, Strider, the faster in and out the better to me.”
“I share that feeling as well, but possibly and probably for different reasons, Shadow,” He said as Legolas tossed him back the container. “Shadow?” Legolas asked with raised eyebrows, “That was part of the name you gave me when my men found you.”
Lenia tucked her hair behind her ears and looked at the stone below her feet as they descended downward, “It’s my ranger’s ‘name’ they were separate nicknames and then some rolled it into one. Both fit me according to most and they are renditions of my own name. Shadow Tigers-eye, Lenia Kin-dal. It’s not hard to see that similarity.”
“Neither is it hard to see how they fit.”
Lenia looked at him with a raised eyebrow as the light began to fade within sky. She was thanking her training for readying her for long endless travel but worrying about the ones who weren’t prepared. “We should have stopped,” She whispered bellow her breath; Legolas was the only one that could hear her. “It’s not fair to push them so hard, any of them.”
Legolas looked at her, his blue eyes trailing her face, “What else could we do? We’re in far too much danger to sleep or rest.”
She sighed, “I know, but still. It’s just not right.” She turned her eyes upon the darkening sky, “Weariness is not something easy to avoid. It takes training and the wearier you are the weaker you are. Weakness is not something we can afford. That causes death and death is also not something affordable.”
“You know more than your age shows,” Legolas said and she looked at him, blue eyes locking blue eyes, “Was that a compliment, my lord?” Legolas shrugged lightly but smiled as well, “Perhaps so.” The smile upon his face was visible to her eyes even as all light drained from the sky. “It’s so much different here than home,” He admitted, “Here the stars don’t glow, but at home they simply radiate almost like…”
“Like?” She pressed, eyes sparkling as they caught the slightest amount of moonlight. “Do you truly want to know?” He asked, nearly uncomfortable with telling her. “Yes,” She said softly, eyes running over him like a waterfall.
Legolas smiled lightly, “Suit yourself, ranger. At home they simply radiate almost like y-”
“We’ve reached it!” Gimli explained, “The walls of Moria, home of the dwarves!”
Lenia looked at Legolas, “We’ll continue this discussion later then?” He nodded lightly, fully relieved at those words. Quickly Lenia ran down to meet the others, “Oh,” Gimli spoke looking at Lenia and Legolas, “Soon you, elves, will enjoy the hospitality of the dwarves. The most delicious food, great fires, lovely atmosphere…”
Lenia rolled her eyes at Legolas, “Sounds like he’s describing a rangers’ outing.” Legolas’ lips unturned but he lightly shoved her to show silence. She replied with an outwardly stuck tongue and a tilt of the head.
“Speak friend and enter,” Gandalf muttered reading the words upon the doorway. “What does it mean?” Merry asked and Gandalf smiled, “Oh it’s quite simple really, if you’re a friend you speak the password and enter.”
This time Legolas smiled lightly and shook his head gently as Gandalf began trying to open the door. “Lenia!” Aragorn called, she excused herself and ran over to him, “Yes, Aragorn?” She asked. Aragorn stroked Anita’s neck as he unloaded her saddle. “The mines are no place for horses, where do you wish to have Anita go?” Lenia placed her hand on Anita’s neck, “I’ll find her when I need to.” He hand stroking Anita’s soft coat as Aragorn readied to free her.
“You always say such a thing.” Aragorn said, “I never believe it, and yet, what you say is true. I will never understand it.”
“Anita is my Shadow fax in many ways, Aragorn,” She said, stepping back from her horse, “She’ll never let me down and I will never let her down. It is as it is meant to be.” Aragorn put his hand on her shoulder as she set Anita free and walked back to rejoin the others.
“What’s the elvish word for friend?” Frodo asked Gandalf. Nearly immediately the wizard responded with “Mellon,” and just as fast the door opened. Lenia smiled at Frodo and helped him off the rock. “Well thought of.” She told him as she followed her friends within the dark entrance of Moria. Gimli was still ranting on and on about what delicacies they’d taste there and what hospitality they’d witness during their short stay as they entered.
All hairs stood up on Lenia’s neck and her stomach knotted. Her eyes darted from wall to wall. Something was wrong. “I don’t think-” Lenia began to protest but she never got the full chance. “This is no mine,” Boromir corrected Gimli as he spoke. “This is a tomb.” Lenia’s eye’s caught sight before the ones with the lamps did. Bodies and weapon lay strewed out on the floor of the cave like mass. “No!” Gimli bellowed as he over looked the destruction.
“This is terrible.” Lenia whispered to Legolas as she surveyed the scene with her eyes. Legolas picked up an arrow and threw it to the ground, “Goblins.” He cursed aloud and readied himself. Boromir uttered to Aragorn about how they should have gone towards Rohan instead.
Lenia shook her head and did the same, “Great, Orcs, Black riders, Dark wizards and now Goblins-what next?”
“Now get out of here, get out!” Boromir or Aragorn yelled, which one Lenia really didn’t pay attention to-her senses were on what was in back of her. Something was slithering within the entry way while the hobbits back out. Her hands gripped hard around her bow and arrow as she tensed ready to turn and run-but not away and not out of fear. “Strider! Aragorn!” The hobbits yelled and immediately, almost before the words left their mouths Lenia, Aragorn and Legolas were running Boromir followed their lead. “It’s Frodo!” Pippin told Lenia, “Look!” It the scene barely seemed to have calmed down before the creature, a Kraken, struck back. It had Frodo in the air flailing him around as if he was some sort of towel. “Ugh, this is one lessen that comes very clearly-be careful what you wish for.” Lenia pulled hard on her bow and arrow concentrating hard on where she would shoot.
“Shoot already,” Legolas urged as he continued shooting.
She looked at him, “Listen you can be the elf but I’m the ranger,” She looked back at the scene, eyes piercing it and heart racing as she watched it. “You have to have a precise hit to make a difference otherwise you’re just going to anger it. You have to pay close attention otherwise you could hit Aragorn or Frodo and mortally wound them.”
“What has happened to your Elvin instinct?” Legolas asked but Lenia didn’t respond. She was watching as Aragorn chopped through the arms. She released the arrow and it flew hitting the creature straight on the head. “Nice shot,” Legolas said, ‘However,” he shot another shot, and “its head is armored. You’d have to use a harder arrow”
“Alright then,” Lenia spoke readying another arrow, “What do you say to this,” She watched as the creature opened its mouth and released another arrow. This one lodged in him mouth causing it to snap it shut and release Frodo to Aragorn. However it still chased them, “Legolas!” Aragorn yelled and Legolas shot an arrow straight into its eye.
“Very well done, you two,” Aragorn said running up to them. “Quickly into the mines!” Gandalf demanded. “Now, before it becomes unstunned and angry.”
Aragorn looked at Lenia and Legolas, “Into the mines!” Lenia shot again at the creature only split seconds after Legolas had, “You all in first, I’ll follow.” Legolas said and turned to Lenia, “Help Aragorn and Boromir with the Hobbits.” She shot again, nearly seeming angered with the fact he said that only he would follow but she didn’t disobey. She turned immediately and rushed the hobbits in beside Aragorn and Boromir as the creature approached, “Legolas!” Both she and Aragorn yelled turning around, Legolas was running towards them. “You can hate me later.” He repeated to Lenia as they ran down the hall following Gandalf as it collapsed behind them. Lenia poked her head out from behind Aragorn and Legolas, “Great, a deep dark tunnel, just what I always wanted.” She muttered to Aragorn who smirked.
“We now have but one choice.” Gandalf spoke allow his staff to shine bright. “We must face the long dark of Moria.”
Lenia glance at the others making an eye movement and keeping her bow at her side, “Why does none of this sound comforting?” She muttered and Legolas looked at her, “Because it isn’t supposed to be.” She stuck her tongue out and watched as Aragorn raised an eyebrow at them. “Be on your guard,” Gandalf spoke again, “There are older, fouler and more evil things in the deep dark depths of this earth than Orcs.” Lenia moved her eyes around the scenery, nearly wishing that information to be kept to him self. “Quiet now, it’s a four day journey to the other side-let us hope that we go unnoticed.”
Lenia glanced down to see the Hobbits between her and Aragorn but nearly pressing against her. Her hands were still ready on their bow and she was by no means, relax. She was alert, they all were and with full right. There were few that knew what rested within those walls-some of which rested within that group.
“These caves are so large,” Pippin marveled whispering lightly to Lenia. “It’s nothing like I’ve ever seen.”
“The Dwarves are amazing miners, dwellers of the deep. Their caverns are more like old castles. You know the ones that used to have twists and turns, traps and beautiful scenery. Sometimes the most dangerous or frightening things of all are the most beautiful.” She said looking down at him, her voice in a soft whisper. She was the last person who wanted to awake something.
Gimli looked at her, “Was the a compliment?” His tone seemed shocked but his expression almost accusing.
Lenia looked at him, hand resting on Pippin’s shoulder as they search for a place to sit, “Take it as you wish, master dwarf.” She smiled lightly and sat beside Pippin. Pippin looked at her, “Was it a compliment?” He whispered. Lenia smiled lightly nodded placed a finger to her lips but said nothing as she stared down the dark caverns. She was looking around, allowing her eyes to open doors to see into other areas of Moria. Areas that the group had or had yet come to pass. The mining area full of mithril was captivating and the designs and structures of Moria itself were intriguing from all she’d ever seen before. Pippin smirked looking at her and then began talking with Merry.
Lenia turned and stood, climbing up the rocks more to go see Gandalf. He was pondering which way to go. “It’s Gollum,” She heard him say and she glanced in the direction of the creature and back at Gandalf and Frodo. Careful she climbed up to meet him, wondering if he’d discovered the way yet. “Oh!” He exclaimed as she reached them. “It’s this way.”
“You remembered?’ Frodo asked hopefully.
“No, of course not, the air just smells less foul this way.” Frodo looked a Lenia and Aragorn who just smiled and shrugged as they followed the elder man to the tunnel, “When in doubt and lost in the dark follow your nose.”
“That’s a new one.” Gimli spoke and Legolas raised an eyebrow at him. It wasn’t long before they reached the dwarf city. Shivers were running through Lenia and the further they went the more uncomfortable she got. The more she also knew she wasn’t the only one feeling this way. “Beautiful isn’t it?” Gimli asked and Lenia nodded but Legolas said nothing causing Lenia smirk a bit, “You people have a unique way with craftsmen ship. It’s absolutely phenomenal.” Several others marveled the scene as they walked. Suddenly Gimli ran passed them all and towards a room. “Gimli!” Gandalf bellowed but he didn’t stop and immediately they took after him. Gimli was practically crying when they entered a room, yet another one they looked like a tomb. The only thing different was the fact that there was a casket in the middle of the room. Light was streaming down upon it as if it should be an angelic scene but all if brought to Lenia was more tension. She and Legolas glanced at each other that let her know he wished to be there no more than she. Gandalf read off the name of Gimli’s cousin off of the stone before sighing, “He is dead, just as I feared.” Gimli’s crying began as Gandalf spoke and the room never silenced.
Lenia lightly closed her eyes and then walked lightly around the room, surveying the area.
Gandalf picked up a book and began to read; Lenia stopped and rejoined the group, nearly wishing the window was big enough to get through. She could feel the creatures of the cave as if they were looking down upon her read to strike. Legolas leaned over to Aragorn, “We must move on, we cannot linger here.” Lenia wasn’t sure whether he spoke from inner warning or the fact he just wished not to linger-either way his words sounded perfect to her. As Gandalf spoke his last words of the text Pippin accidently made something knock into the well like hole, causing an immense amount of ruckus. “Fool of a Took throw yourself in next time and rid us of your stupidity.”
No sooner had those words been spoken than beating drums could be heard. Lenia allowed her hands to close around her bow and walked in front of the hobbits. Her eyes were focused on the door. “Mr. Frodo!” Sam said, “Your sword,” Lenia and everyone turned their heads to Frodo, Sting was glowing blue. Legolas turned his head as yelling began, “Orcs!” Boromir ran to shut the door, pausing as an arrow flew to his head, “They have a cave troll!” He called.
“Get back!” Aragorn yelled, “Stay close to Gandalf,” Aragorn looked at Lenia, “There are far more than thirty,” She whispered and he ran to Boromir, helping to shut the door. Lenia placed her bow in it’s case and helped. “Here, use these,’ Legolas said tossing them axes. “They’ll never hold.” Lenia whispered and Boromir just looked at her. “I know,” Aragorn replied as he placed the last on in place, “But it will hold to our advantage.” Lenia backed from the door and followed Aragorn as he pulled her with him. “Protect the hobbits,” He whispered, “but do not risk your life.”
Lenia took her bow and arrow back out, readying herself, “Strider, such words sound simple but the action is impossible.” Pounding began on the door as Gimli jumped on the strong tomb, ready to those that had killed his kind. It took no time for the door to break and Orcs to enter. Fighting began as if it was life itself. The troll was thrashing around making aim difficult. Lenia dove as it slammed down where she would have been standing. After it turned to Legolas who began shooting it with his arrows-none of which phased it, it just kept on going. More orcs piled in and time seemed irrelevant. “Frodo!” She heard and turned, the Troll was coming close to him. Lenia jumped up, grabbed onto a piece of rock and hoisted herself up. “What are you doing?!” Legolas yelled but she didn’t respond. The Troll grabbed Frodo, “Aragorn, Aragorn!” He yelled, Aragorn turned immediately and run to him, Merry and Pippin pelting it with rocks. However, the Troll was stronger than them and threw Aragorn aside, knocking him out. “Aragorn!” She yelled but there was no response. She ran across the rim of the stone ledge. Watching as Frodo tried to wake Aragorn. No sooner had she reached where Frodo was had he been stabbed by the Troll. She stopped dead in her tracks, all breath stopped as she stared at the scene before her. Merry and Pippin attacked the beast and were soon assisted by everyone else that was conscious while Lenia and Sam ran to Frodo’s side. “Is, is he alright?” Sam asked as Lenia heard the Troll began to go down. Lenia got on her knees on the other side of Frodo, putting her weaponry down, “I, I don’t know.” She said looking at Sam and back at Frodo. She wanted to see if he was okay but she didn’t want to see the face of another dead body. Aragorn made is way over, Lenia looked at him as they reached them, “Aragorn I-” Aragorn met her glossed as and put a hand on her shoulder as he flipped Frodo over, Sam allowing tears to streak his face. “Oh no,” Aragorn uttered as he did so, closely his eyes lightly, prepared for Frodo to be dead. Sam went wide-eyed and ran over as Frodo coughed and breathed. Lenia’s mouth fell open in a gap and the others joined them. “He’s alive.” Sam said simply and Lenia smiled with relief, wrapping her arms around him-making Frodo slightly shocked. “Oh thank goodness,” Lenia whispered looking at him, “we thought we lost you.”
Frodo sat up as she released him, “I’m alright, I’m not hurt” His breath was hard but otherwise he was alright.
Aragorn furred his eyebrows, as confused as Lenia was and nearly twice as relieved, “you should be dead, that spear would have scoured a wild bull.”
“Perhaps there is more to this outfit than meets the eye,” Gandalf said and Lenia looked at Frodo as he opened his shirt revealing mithril. Gimli laughed, “You are full of surprises, Master Baggins.” Lenia, Aragorn and Sam helped Frodo up and Lenia grabbed her things standing herself.
Heads turned towards the door as more orcs could be heard, “To the bridge of Khazad-dum.” Gandalf ordered and they jumped down following him down the halls. It took no time for the Orcs to catch up to them and less time for their numbers to expand. “Goblins,” Lenia alerted Gandalf of the creatures accompanying the orcs in the caves as they crawled down the stone. “Stay alert.” He reminded the group without stopping. That however didn’t do much; it took no time for them to be cornered. The orcs and goblins surrounded them, enclosing them. Legolas readied his bow but Lenia looked at him, “That will do nothing,” She whispered, “There are far too many and they are far too strong in their numbers. It would just aggravate them and make them more brutal. None of which do we need,”
Legolas looked at her, “Excuse me for being defensive,” he said before looking back at the gruesome bunch around them. “Terrible creatures,” he uttered and Lenia grazed her eyes along them. They were of no mystery to her-she was well aware of them and their capability’s, more than she wished to be. Aragorn positioned the hobbits behind him and the others, protecting them from harms way. “There is no way out of this.” Boromir told him, “we are doomed.”
“Don’t be so sure of everything you say,” Lenia whispered, “sometimes doom is your way out.” Boromir gave her an odd look once again as she followed Gandalf’s eyes down one of the hallways. Growling could be heard and the glow of fire could be seen. It was enough to scare the creatures away, releasing the friends from their capture. Now everyone’s attention was turned in the direction and Legolas held his bow and arrow up in that direction. “What is that?” Boromir asked as Legolas lowered his bow
“Shadow, fire and flame,” Lenia whispered and Gandalf nodded looking from her and back down the hall, “A Balrog,” He said, “a demon from an ancient world.” Legolas’ eyes widened, he was no stranger to that name.
“Awoken by the dwarves some time ago,” Lenia added. Silence took over and Gandalf uttered beneath his breath before looking down the hall again, “Run!” He demanded and led them away from that area and towards the bridge.
“Whhooaa!” Boromir, who was ahead of them said. Legolas ran forward grabbed him and pulled him back. “It’s a dead end isn’t it!” Merry said aloud.
“Gandalf,” Aragorn said looking at him, “lead them on Aragorn,” he said and Lenia turned to look at him, unsure of what those words were supposed to signify, “The bridge is near.” Lenia looked at them, confused. “Do as I say!” He bellowed as Aragorn tried to drag him, “Swords are of no more use here.”
“What’s wrong with him?” She whispered walking with Aragorn, “I don’t know, Lenia,” he looked at her, “but I’m not sure I like it.”
“Something’s wrong, Aragorn, either that or something will be.” She looked at him, “Is there no other way out?”
“No, we must go this way.” Aragorn said looking at her, “I don’t doubt that you are feeling something Lenia, but we must do this.” He placed his hand on her arm, “It is the only way.”
“I do not suggest we turn back, it’s just a warning.” She looked at the fires bellow, “The Balrog is near.”
“We’re going to have to jump!” Boromir called back as they reached a break in the walk way. Legolas jumped across the break as the Balrog could be heard getting closer, “Gandalf,” Legolas said motion for him to come, “come here.” Gandalf look back and forth before jumping towards where Legolas was. Lenia turned her head to look back at the doorway, “we’re running out of time.” She uttered.
Whizzing through the air caught their attention as arrows began to fly. “I’ve got it covered,” Legolas said and took out his bow and arrow, shooting down those who were shooting at them. Lenia put an arrow on her bow, looking at Aragorn for approval, he nodded and she did the same.
“Come on,” Boromir said to Merry and Pippin, grabbed them and leapt across, Gandalf and Legolas helping them as they got over. Lenia paid attention as the rock broke away. “We need to hurry,” She told Aragorn, “I don’t think this will hold for long.” Aragorn looked at her as she and Legolas shot down more of the creatures. “Sam!” He ordered, picked him and tossed him across as well. Lenia shot another arrow and looked towards the doorway watching as growls and shadows of fire bounced off the walls. “Hurry,” She urged to Aragorn. Aragorn turned to take Gimli but Gimli stopped him, “Nobody tosses a dwarf.” He explained, ran forward and jumped nearly falling in the process. He would have fallen into the depths if Legolas hadn’t grabbed his beard, “Ow.” Lenia uttered before she took an intake of breath, “It’s breaking!” She said to Aragorn from where she was as she watched the stone break. Running forward she helped them. “Are you alright?” She asked.
“We’re fine.” Aragorn said standing up and helping Frodo up. The building shook and the connection to the other side was severed by a stone. “It’s getting closer,” Aragorn said. “Aragorn, if you jump Frodo and I could balance this enough so he could jump,” She said.
Aragorn looked at her, “Lenia, that’s brilliant.”
Lenia rose her eyebrows, “What?” Bracing herself as the area they were on began loosing stability.
“We’ll treat it like a balance.” Aragorn said and Lenia looked at him clearly confused, “I never said to treat it like a balance!”
“You said enough!”
“Hurry!” Boromir said, “before that thing reaches us or that gives way.”
Aragorn looked at Lenia, “A balance, what is the best way to make it fall.” Lenia looked at him noticing his position shift as he grabbed Frodo’s clothing to keep him from falling, “Weight,” She whispered bracing herself. Aragorn nodded lightly, “Lean forward!” He told Frodo and then looked at Lenia “Jump first hurry.” She seemed hesitant but turned to the group on stable ground nevertheless.
“Can I help you now?” Legolas asked. Lenia glanced back at Aragorn, the entry way, Frodo and then jump. Legolas grabbed her and made sure she was alright, “Yes,” She said breathlessly, heart still pounding, “Now was a very good time.” Legolas smirked lightly as she stepped aside and watched as Aragorn and Frodo plummeted towards them. “Come on!” Legolas said grabbing Frodo and handing him to Lenia as he jumped and helped Aragorn over. “You okay?”
“Yes, thank you Legolas.” Aragorn said and looked at Lenia who nodded after surveying everyone else with them. “We must move on,” Gandalf instructed and quickly they followed his orders. Wasting no time to reach the bridge they ran. “Over the bridge!” He ordered but a large snarl and roar caused Lenia to stop. The Balrog stood high above them, powerful and angry. “Lenia,” Legolas said grabbing her arm, “come on.” She shook her head and started running again once Gandalf did. “I’ve never seen something like that in person.”
“Most people don’t, or at least don’t survive to tell the tale.” Legolas pointed out as they rushed across the bridge, allowing the hobbits to go before them.
“You cannot pass!” Gandalf bellowed and Lenia turned, not following the others. “Gandalf!” Frodo yelled and Lenia tensed, throat becoming dry-something was going to go wrong. The Balrog stood full height and Lenia barely flinched, it was taller than any creature she’d ever laid eyes on, even a troll. She listened as Gandalf uttered words to the creature holding out his staff, “Gandalf!” She yelled, unable to move as the Balrog created a sword from fire and moved to strike, the only thing protecting Gandalf being a shield of magic. This time Aragorn ran to Lenia’s side, looking at her face, searching the features for an answer. Her breathing was hard and her tongue wet her lips as she swallowed hard, unblinking as she stared at the scene.
“Go back to the shadow,” Gandalf spoke as the Balrog made a whip, “You shall not pass!” He bellowed slamming his staff to the ground. The Balrog stepped forward and the bridge collapsed beneath him, causing him to fall into the darkness. Aragorn nearly let out a sigh of relief until he saw the look on Lenia’s face. She was plastered in place, unable to move but the scene to come was already within her mind. She was barely able to open her mouth and her throat was too dry to yell. The only thing she could do was close her eyes, open them, and pray she was wrong.
It happened so fast she barely saw it. Gandalf turned to rejoin them and the Balrog used his whip to grab his ankle, pulling him down so he was gripping the stone walk way. Frodo screamed for him but still Gandalf yelled nothing back, Boromir, Legolas and Gimli were the only things stopping the hobbits from running to him. “Fly you fools.” Gandalf said as he dropped into the darkness.
A dry cough escaped Lenia as she snapped from her near trans. Her limbs felt numb and heavy as the reality sunk in. She didn’t have to turn to see the sullen looks of the faces around her, shocked, grieved and full of despair. Slowly she moved her eyes to Aragorn who looked at her; she knew he knew that she’d seen it coming. Tears rimmed her eyes as she began to open her mouth, twice such a thing had happened; twice she had just frozen and twice was too many. She knew that and she knew she didn’t deserve to have Aragorn be taking light with her but she wanted him to understand. “Aragorn!” Boromir called running up the stairs towards the outside as arrows began to fly. Aragorn looked at her before running up the stairs, constantly looking back while dodging arrows. Sighing and cursing under her breath Lenia followed. The cool, fresh air felt good against her skin as she sat on a rock collecting herself. She put her elbows on her knees and hands clasped together to her forehead allowing her hair to fall around her like a frame. Through the corners of tear-rimmed eyes she saw the hobbits crying on the mountain, Boromir holding onto Gimli who was looking quite upset and even was trying to run back into the cave, Legolas looking over the mountains looking lost and Aragorn staring out at the path they’d take with tears pushed deep back behind his eyes. She squeezed her eyes shut as tears threatened to exit her eyes. “Legolas, get them up!” Aragorn called. “Just, give them a moment for pity’s sake.” Boromir pushed.
“By nightfall these hills will be swarming with Orcs!” Aragorn said gruffly, “We must make for the woods of Lothlorien before then.” He turned again, “Legolas, Gimli, get them up.” His eyes shifted towards Lenia. “Come on, on your feet, Sam.” He said pulling Sam gently to his feet as he made his way to her. “Lenia,”
She bit her lip to keep it from quivering, squeezed her eyes shut one more time before taking a shaky deep breath and looking up at him, “Yes my Lord?” He looked at her, eyes meeting hers and immediately she looked away, towards the ground, “Forgive me.” She whispered. Aragorn looked over at the others and then back at her, kneeling down in front of her, “What?”
Lenia took in a breath and let it out, looking at him, “I could have stopped it.” She looked away, “I know you knew I saw it. I froze, Aragorn, and it wasn’t the first time. I did when Tripton died, I nearly did it with Frodo and now with Gandalf.” She closed her eyes slowly and reopened them, “That’s over one too many times.”
“Lenia,” Aragorn said but she didn’t move, “Shadow,” tears streaked her cheeks and he took his hand, gently forcing her to look at him, “Don’t be so hard on yourself, there was nothing any of us could have done it would have just taken you with him.”
“I don’t know that.” Lenia pointed out looking at him, “I don’t know what I’m capable of-I might been able to-I could have-”
“It’s in the past,” He said placing a hand on hers, “Don’t worry over it, it isn’t your fault.” He whispered and stood, “Up and Adam,” he told her before going to stop Frodo from walking off.
Lenia wiped her eyes sighed and stood, “Come on, Pip,” She whispered gently pulling him to his feet. “I’m sorry,” She whispered placing a hand on his shoulder, “I know how you feel but we must get to shelter, there are unmentionable things that roam these woods and mountains at night. None of them are something you’d wish to encounter.” He nodded solemnly and stayed standing. “This is mad,” Boromir hissed from behind her. Lenia turned to look at him, “Aragorn just wishes to protect them.”
“They just lost someone dear to them,”
“And so did we,” She interjected, “Captain of Gondor you of all people should know the dangers that walk un-inhabited land.” Her eyes met his, “We must get to Lothlorien before dark otherwise Gandalf will have died in vain. Aragorn knows what he is doing; you should have some faith in your king.” She hissed the last words and walked around him to catch up with Frodo and Aragorn.
“We’ll have to walk fast if we want to reach it before dark,” He said, “We’ll have to make sure the Hobbits don’t fall behind.” Lenia nodded, “I’ll help with that,” She said and he smiled lightly. “So will I,” Legolas said walking up. “Alright, good, Gimli will be towards the end, you two in the middle, Boromir and I towards the front. Anything goes wrong-”
“Protect the Hobbits,” Both elves repeated as if they’d heard it a hundred times. “That is what we enlisted for,” Legolas pointed out. Aragorn lightly shook his head and ordered everyone leave at as fast a pace as possible. The sky was somewhat cloudy in areas and threatened darkness to fall over them. “The golden wood,” Lenia whispered over looking the woods as they finally reached them, dusk falling over the sky. The fading sunlight cast an eerie glow over the magical wood. Eyes peered out at them from the slightest of brush. Gentle breath flowed through the air; voiceless whispers laced the eerie sound of woodland chimes. “What’s that?” Merry whispered, “Bell like hymns created by the sounds of Elvin voices and animals, a glory to the gods. It’s one of the most sacred sounds. It’s a welcome home to the nightfall, something they only do rarely when the stars are shining brightest and the sun glows the fullest.” Lenia returned the whisper, gentle and eyes never leaving their place of the trees and bushes. The elves were waiting, they knew they were there, they’d known since they entered the wood for many a reason.

"Stay close, young hobbits," Gimli whispered causing Lenia to glance back at them while still walking. "They say that a great sorceress lives in these woods, an elf-witch of terrible power" Lenia smirked, "All who look upon her spell and are never seen again," Gimli finnished and Lenia lightly shook her head.

"Mr. Frodo?" Sam asked and Lenia turned her head, Frodo had come to a sudden hault but soon began walking. "You alright?" She asked and he nodded. "Yeah." She smiled, "Very good."

"Well, here's on dwarf she won't ensnare so easily," Gimli began causing Lenia's eyes to roll and a smirk to curve Aragorn's lips "I have the eyes of a hawk and the ears of a fox." No sooner had those words left his mouth than arrows were pointed at the group. Arrows being held by guards of her Grandparents house.

"The Dwarf breathes so loud we could have shot him in the dark," An all too familiar voice said walking around the other elves. Haldir looked at the group and then turned to the elves closest to Lenia, "Jhyrdaes os eisyrn." (Lower your arrows.) Slowly the arms of the elves lowered leaving Lenia the only one unguarded by the sharp objects.

"Haldir of Lorien," Aragorn said giving a slight bow of respect, "We come here for help," he looked back at the group before looking at Haldir again, "we need your protection,"

"Aragorn! These woods are perilious we should got back." Gimli said and Lenia turned her head, "Gimli," she hissed, "silence."

Haldir looked at Gimli and then at Lenia and back, "You have entered the realm of the Lady of the Wood. You cannot go back." He looked at Frodo and then at Aragorn, "Come, she knows you are here, she is waiting." He turned and walked forward. Aragorn looked at the group and followed, "Come on," Lenia whispered and started after him.

"You don't need to shush me, elf-maiden." Gimli said and Haldir turned, throwing dangerous eyes upon Gimli. Lenia took in a nervous breath and looked at Gimli, "Gimli son of Gloin you do not want to make Haldir angry, nor any of the other elves within these woods. They are far more dangerous than you."


"Is there a problem, Masydi?" Haldir asked looking back at Lenia, she looked at Gimli and then up at Haldir as she began walking again, "Byr ei oli, tia jhys, aelaeseirol car shael paer shor." (Not a one, my lord, everything has been dealt with.) Haldir eyed her before he continued walking himself.

"This is going to be one of the longest visits I've ever had in these woods," Lenia whispered beneath her breath as she pulled her hood over her head and continued following Haldir

Part four: The picture above is of Lenia's brother Tripton-hehehehehehe :)

....hmmm....Okay......not as long as I expected......feel lucky I thought this was gonna be 20x larger!