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Chapter Text

How long has it been? How many wars have I fought? How many times must I prove to these misogynistic pieces of shit that I can fight? That I can lead? The world thinks it's harsh, but in reality, it's not. Yes, it feels young because of the changes. The world has changed, but it’s still the same; there is just less in it.

It's been decades since I've seen my best friend, my partner, my love. I still remember the day clearly... I was on my ship, The Empress, waiting for the green flash to bring me home to my heart and soul. Not long after, we were reunited once more. We sailed to the beach side by side. Everyone from the Breathen Court was around us on each ship and had a party. The royal couple was together again. Once again, I felt my love's arms around me. It was still weird to see we both didn't grow old. But then again, Capt. Jack Sparrow has the thing we have. Immortality. The one thing he was searching for, but he finally got it, and it's been 30 years.

We got away from the party and the rum-drinking pirates. We just talked about everything and anything, and then, well... I believe you can guess the next part. But soon, the sun was about to set. We gave each other gifts, and our crews got a little something as well.

At the time, we didn't know… That day was the last day we would see one another. It was our last kiss, and like all the times before, it was meaningful, but it felt like a final goodbye. Ten years passed, and I was writing a letter and handing it off to one of my crew members that I trusted. Soon later, I got a letter as well, but it was in a bottle. Funny, I guess we both spent too much time with Jack when we were younger.

The letter was sweet, but there was only one line I saw, the only one I couldn't believe...

My love is dead.

Long after, I made myself work, fight, and learn. All in all, I just ignored life. I was a shell with no emotion and could only wait for the day I could genuinely reunite with my love.

People think the world is harsh, but it's not. Its people are faulty and make many mistakes, and I am one of them. My heart is damaged beyond repair, and my soul is shattered.

It has been 100 years since I've seen my love. All of my friends and family are gone except one... Capt. Jack Sparrow. We still have pirates, but only the Lords know who the King is. But I've disappeared and only left a parting gift to my fellow pirates so they remember who they are and what they fought for long ago.

My name is Elizabeth Swann. I am the Captain of the Empress and her crew, the Pirate Lord of the South China Sea in Singapore, and the Pirate King of the Brethren Court at Shipwreck Cove. This is the last time I write in a Captain's Log.

Chapter Text

The 19th century is quite interesting, and the 20th century is slowly coming up but still needs a bit more time. Watching it develop and grow was, I guess, fun, but it doesn't feel like home. One hundred years have passed since Will's letter, and during that time, I started to get depressed due to many causes in my life. Jack saw that I was starting to give up on life and rot to death, so without me knowing, he made a plan with other pirates, of course, a very impossible, mad, crazy plan full of adventures and rum. Throughout the years, Jack and I became famous. We are legends now. All over the world, we are known as The Great Captain Jack Sparrow and The Pirate King, who show no mercy. Only the pirate lords know the truth about who we are, but that doesn't mean they can find us.

Jack was by my side every step of the way and made sure I didn't do anything crazy or incredibly stupid. So, to get him off my back for a few years, I started to learn all the languages and fighting styles of the world, old and new. Last I heard, Jack was trying every alcoholic liquor and rum he could find. Plus, I heard rumors that he might be in prison, but knowing him, he'll be out soon enough.

I got into the new fashion and changed my outfit slightly, but it’s still the old pirate type. Plus, there are a few tattoos here and there that have meanings. I get a lot of odd looks from store owners and the men who try to rob me. Well, I walk out free, with more money and no scratch in sight.

Jack finally caught up with me. It turns out he also learns some languages, but he only remembers the ones that are fun to speak. Moreover, somehow, he manages to stay in his old clothes and find the same mineral. Jack also got a few new tattoos and changed his hairstyle, but his dreadlocks always find their way back.

My life, feelings, depression, and situations go up and down because of the deaths of friends, wars I fought in, and the pirate’s way of politics and the pirate code of the king. I was going to give up the Pirate King position, but somehow, I'm stuck with it. I can take a break, like an exile, from being king due to some guidelines. I really didn't care, but little did I know that was going to change because I'm still immortal, not dead, and still had the Pirate King’s sword. The Pirate King’s sword was made during the first Brethren Court, but all the Pirate Lords also get a sword for where they post. So I have two, and Jack has one. The swords are only brought out when there is a Pirate King; when the Pirate King uses their sword, the Lords can use theirs.

Anyway, a long time ago, Jack and I got gifts from Will. I got a beautiful necklace that I never take off my neck, and I found a strong chain, but over time, it’s slowly losing its strength—I don’t know why yet. I still kept the letter that Will wrote a long time ago. Jack got a custom-made pistol, but he always manages to lose it once in a while.

For some reason, I let my hair grow out to my thighs but cut it to my waist or shorter if it gets annoying. Jack has a new scar of an X on his left cheek. I didn’t know the story of that, but I don’t care all that much. I also have some scars.

The wars I fought in made me keep a habit of keeping, God knows why, many weapons on my person, hidden and seen. While I was in Singapore after the war with Beckett 100 years ago, the old crew gave me the sword that was for the Pirate Lord of the South China Sea. Like I said, once the King uses their sword, the Lords follow.

Jack and I are now in the middle of the ocean near the Bermuda Triangle. The stories around this place are funny, but the truth is, this is where the Flying Dutchman mostly stays. So, all the missing people either died or got turned into pirates by Davy Jones. The Pearl is still beautiful and strong. While the old crew had passed away a long time ago, Jack managed to find more pirates to help run the Pearl. I'm surprised that he even found a crew. A ship that has seen it all, in life and death. During this time, while we were out, there was a storm, "Keep her steady lads, or we are all dead men!" said Capt. Sparrow.

"Well, this was your idea, Jack, to come out here! But how long will she hold?!” I asked through the waves, crashing at the Pearl while holding onto the rope attached to the sails.

"A little longer!" he replied.

"Captain! A whirlpool is forming fast!" Yelled a sailor.

The mad captain knew it wasn't a normal whirlpool because he could outrun them. This, however, was the work of Tia D. Jack knew she had a plan, but he had no idea if it was good or bad. Captain Sparrow smirks because he loves a challenge, and this he knows is going to be an adventure he'll never forget.

Elizabeth held tightly to the rope. The storm didn’t scare her because she had lived long enough, but she knew her long-time friend was having fun, and something in her said this would be a ride she’d never forget. Elizabeth couldn’t help but smile—just a little one.

As Tia D. watched the waves at her favorite pirates, she knew the King needed to heal, and Capt. Sparrow had to learn to live with himself. She knew a place where they could learn and grow to be even better people than they already were; they just needed to be a little more... Happy.

Chapter Text

A rugged ranger was walking through the woods to clear his mind of everything that had happened back in camp. It was an old argument about choosing a companion on his travels, but he felt better alone. He started to sing chants from the many different languages he knew. He was near a river when he heard a shout that was out of place. Running towards the river, fearing it wasn't another ranger or an animal, instead, he saw a person, most likely a man he had never seen before, about to drown. Running as fast as a horse and quickly taking off his cloak and any heavier materials, he dived into the river, swimming towards the man. Once he reached him, he grabbed the man and placed him on his back with a struggle due to the man’s clothing being heavy with water, but that didn't stop the savior from using all his strength against the current to save one person. Finally, he reached the shore and dragged the heavy man, but when he got a closer look, he saw that the man was actually a woman. With his limited strength, he carried her to a safer spot in the woods and got a good look at her as he started up a fire.

The young woman, who could pass for an elf-maiden, if he didn't check the ear, he would think she was one, with long honey-blond hair, high cheekbones, smooth and blemish-free skin, from what and where he can see, on her face, neck, and hands but can't see the rest of her body due to the long...cloak? That was definitely very heavy from the water.

The ranger was also a healer and decided to check if anything was broken. Thankfully, nothing was broken. He took off his soaked outer clothes and the woman’s cloak and found out she was armed, very armed. She had two swords, many hidden knives, and a few weapons he had never seen before, but he could tell there was more than what met the eye with those weapons.

He wondered, 'How can she hide so many weapons on her body? Especially the big one.'

After five minutes of finding more weapons and checking once more to see if he missed any, he took off the woman’s outer wet clothes and set them near his by the fire and a warm, dry stone. The woman was unconscious and would be out for another day or two due to the bump on her head. The ranger left to check the area for danger, gather herbs for the lady’s head, and gather clothes that would fit the weather and the environment.

A beam of sunlight was hitting Elizabeth's face, telling her it was time to wake up. 'Warm...' Elizabeth felt the sun rays on her face and the soft grass beneath her fingertips, but she was having a hard time opening her eyes and waking up slowly. A low whimper came from her mouth. She wanted the sun to stop glaring at her face and turn off already. Elizabeth didn’t like the feeling of the sun getting warmer and didn’t want to get up, but she had to because Jack might do something crazy. Again. Elizabeth realized she wasn't on the Pearl but on land. Elizabeth didn't fear anything but knew the feeling of being a prisoner or alone in a room. She got a little afraid and very close to having a panic attack. She felt trapped by the sun and shadows in her mind that were coming closer to grab her and pull her to the darkest part of her mind. Her head was throbbing; it felt like her head was splitting in half, but after a second of pain, darkness, and heat, that felt like hours to her.

There was a hand on Elizabeth's left cheek and a deep, smooth voice that chased the shadows away and brought back a cool feeling. The feeling is peace.

She finally felt free.

"Shh, don't worry. You are safe. I got you."

Elizabeth felt the hand move to her forehead to rub it; it actually helped her headache, and she could think clearly again. Elizabeth got her eyes open and saw a rugged man with a five o'clock shadow, quite handsome and wearing dark green and black clothing. Elizabeth tried to speak, but her throat was dry and sore as if she’d been screaming at Jack for hours without end.

The man quickly explained, "You've been unconscious for two days. Your voice and body will feel better after some proper rest.” The man grabbed a flask-like bottle and brought it to her mouth, “Here, drink. It’s water with healing herbs."

Elizabeth wasn't very trusting to begin with; she was, after all, a pirate, but this man in front of her made her feel something. It almost felt like she was back in Port Royal with her father, sitting next to him while laying her head on his shoulder as he talked about his day. It felt... Good. This man, whom she had never met, felt like she could trust him, so she drank the herb water. The water was refreshing, but after two days, she was sure the ocean would taste refreshing as well. Once she had her fill of water, her body relaxed, and she fell asleep again, but this time, no nightmares haunted her this time.

The sun rose at dusk. Elizabeth woke up to a single ray shining on her face but didn’t feel the heat. Elizabeth opened her eyes and sat up slowly, taking in her surroundings—a green, fresh, untainted forest—one she hadn’t seen in years.

"Do you feel better, my lady?" Elizabeth jumped at the deep voice that came out of nowhere, but she nodded nonetheless. She remembers this man. He helped her and looked after her.

"Good, you don’t have any injuries, only your head... What do you remember last, my lady?" As soon as he said those words, it came back to her.

"I remember everything. The storm, the Pearl falling, the men screaming, the green light, and then nothing, just darkness." Elizabeth subconsciously touched her neck and, out of nowhere, started to freak out when she didn't feel the chain. 'Oh, on. Where is it? I always have it on!’ Elizabeth looked around like a mad woman but calmed down and relaxed. ' Oh, now I remember. How silly of me.' Elizabeth touched her chest, which had a little pocket where her necklace was. Right next to her heart.

The man looked at Elizabeth with concern, "What is the matter, my lady?"

Elizabeth looked at the man kneeling by her side. She couldn’t help but smile at the question: “Please, don’t call me ‘my lady’. I haven’t been called that in years.” The man smiled, but he had questions for the lady. “My name is Elizabeth. Elizabeth… Swann.” Elizabeth hesitated on her last name, which the man caught but didn’t comment on.

"I am called Strider in these parts. A pleasure." Strider nodded his head to the woman.

If Elizabeth hadn’t lived as long as she had, she would have asked a million and one questions, but stranger things have happened to her, like an undead crew with a cursed ship, Davy Jones’ locker, and becoming a pirate, just to name a few. Elizabeth stays with Strider, whom she will later learn to know as Aragon, but for now, he is a ranger in the woods, and she is a survivor in a new world.

Chapter Text

It's been a year since Strider saved Elizabeth from drowning. Elizabeth became part of the Ranger and the first female outsider ranger during that time. She is now called Abyss, along with other names. Turns out she only needed six months to have a reputation. The name Abyss came from the people of Bree as they saw her walk out of the shadows and into the light. The name shadow sounded too dark, so Abyss was a nice compromise, and a young girl thought it was prettier too. Abyss has been with Strider ever since he saved her from a year or so ago. She learned everything she needed to know about the world she's come about. Plus, she taught him a few things about her world as well.

Abyss found out earlier in the year that Jack was alive and staying in a city called Rivendell but somehow misplaced the Pearl. Lord Elrond and his sons found Jack in the river and healed him, but once he said he was a pirate, they didn’t take it well. They put him on lockdown. He has a guard who follows him around and a cell in case he gets into trouble. He’s in the cell a lot. But he still manages to escape the cells, steals their wine, and complains that there’s no rum or any other type of alcohol, but he has mentioned to them how to make them with vegetables. Jack hasn't left the beautiful city and has made a few friends, like an old hobbit who loves telling stories and the youngish elves who love to hear about the world he came from. Also, Jack met a warrior elf from the Woodland Realm who made him quiet and sober after one good look at him. Not long after, Jack went back to his usual self, but everyone wanted to know what made the loud, wine-stealing pirate, for lack of a better word, humble.

Jack also finds out Elizabeth is alive and writes her letters since they don’t have phones here, which is more than okay with the two pirates. After all, they did grow up in the 18th century. He also told her about the elf warrior he met, but Elizabeth didn't want to believe it.

Strider and Abyss traveled across Middle Earth, and he taught Abyss about the culture and the species that lived there, such as the elves, dwarves, humans, orcs, and more. He taught her about medicine and poison but figured she already knew how to make elixirs. All she needed to know was which plants were which. She also learned the languages, and Strider was surprised at how quickly she picked them up and how many she already knew. She taught him a few languages as well.

Abyss also met the Gray Wizard, Gandalf, who had a job for the rangers to go to the village of Bree and settle at an inn called the Prancing Pony. Gandalf gave them the heads up about a hobbit or more to watch over, and if anything happened to him or if he didn’t make it to the set day, take them to Lord Elrond.

"Your drinks, sir.” They both nodded their thanks to the server and continued to look at the crowd in a dark corner of the inn. Abyss sensed approaching danger and wanted to see if it was right.

"Strider, I'll be back."

"Stay out of trouble."

"Same to you." Abyss secured her hood and walked out into the abyss without a sound. Four hobbits entered the inn as his partner disappeared into the shadows. Strider was watching them for a while as he smoked a curiously carved long-stemmed pipe and had to bite back a smirk because two of the little masters started dancing on the tables and singing a happy song. Then he handed his pipe to the right as his partner sat back down.

"Ringwraiths are showing." She took a hit and let it settle in her chest because the pipe was a lot better here than where she came from, less likely to turn her lungs black. Abyss handed the pipe back to its owner.

"Get ready..."

"Already done, I'm hurt you had to ask," She caught the tiny smirk from the corner of her eye, "and you're joking."

"Yep!" Abyss rolled her eyes at his amusement and watched the small sandy-haired hobbit, who kept looking back at the rangers, listen to the conversation the hobbits were having.

"-hat fellow's done nothing but stare at you since we've arrived." The sandy hobbits indicate towards them as they share a pipe, peering from beneath a travel-stained cowl with gleaming eyes. 

The black hair one gestures to Butterbur to lean down, "Excuse me, those men in the corner. Who are they?”

"They are one of them Rangers; they're dangerous folk they are. Wandering the wilds. What their right name is? I never heard, but round here, they're known as Strider and Abyss."

Abyss left again to clear the roads because the ringwraiths were getting close, and she had to warn the people to stay in. After all, the hobbit put on the ring. She left Strider to care for the hobbits, who made a big scene and saved them from the men in the traven. Abyss watched the four ringwraiths fly down the empty streets like horsemen of the apocalypse. Abyss returned to the room. The hobbits were asleep, and Strider was watching the hobbit’s room from across. Abyss was there earlier preparing it so the ringwaiths would lose the hobbits. They knew and waited for the ringwraiths to tear it apart.

Strider looks to the side and watches Abyss take in the hobbits from the end of the bed, "They look like children." 

Frodo, Sam, Merry, and Pippin have been sleeping on Strider's bed after traveling for so long that they needed the sleep. Plus, it will be a while before they sleep comfortably again, so they might as well enjoy it while they can before they start moving to Rivendell. 

"That's because they are to you," Strider responded. He started to think back to the year before, from when they first met to now. Abyss is the same but has changed, but in a good way. Once learning she can heal from anything makes it very tempting to see how far she could push it, but coming to Middle-Earth has been good for her. She is slowly healing every day from her depression, and the pain she once felt is turning into a memory. It’s a slow process, but it’s making progress.

Once the rest of the rangers got comfortable around her, they adopted her style for all the weapons she hid on her person and gave her clothing that reflected her status as a pirate, lady, and ranger. They approved of her.

Right now, Abyss is wearing a dark green and black leather outfit with a hood. Her hair is in complex braids, and she weaves barbed wire with sharp points in some of the braids. After a few times of hair pulling, she decides to see how they would like their hands to be cut up bloody.

Abyss looked at Strider with one eyebrow raised, "Funny, you making jokes is not a good sign."

"Well, with you around, how can I not?” He shrugged, but she could tell he was stressed.

After a moment of tense silence, Strider and Abyss watched from the window as the ringwraiths galloped down the Bree Streets. Strider turns back to the Hobbits, and his face is lit faintly by the dying fire, while Abyss’s face is shined by the moonlight. It was nearly dawn.

Abyss sighed, “We best get a move on,” And walked up to one of the hobbits to wake him. "Wake up, Master Hobbit." She lightly shook him, but he sat up quickly and blushed at the beautiful maiden before him.

“W-who are you? I'm dreaming of an angel."

Abyss couldn't help but pull a tiny smile and softly shake her head, making the young hobbit blush even more. “No, I am no angel. Come on now. Get up. We’ve got to move."

The other three hobbits woke up and saw, with a slight jump, the new incomer in the room. Strider packed the small things he and Abyss had and introduced them. "Master Hobbits, this is my partner Abyss."

Abyss gave them a slight bow, which they returned and said politely, "Nice to meet you."

Strider, Abyss, Merry, Pippin, and Frodo march through a gloomy, overgrown forest. Sam follows at the end, leading Bill, a scrawny pony who they laden with supplies. They were excited after Abyss told the hobbits they were taking them to Rivendell to meet its Lord. Strider and Abyss led them into the Hobbits through the gloom of the forest. It was still early in the morning when Abyss and Strider led Frodo, Sam, Merry, and Pippin across the windswept moors. The hobbits suddenly stop and unstrap their knapsacks.

"Gentlemen, we do not stop until nightfall," Strider told the hobbits before they got too comfortable. 

Pippen looked up from his knapsack and asked, "What about breakfast?"

"You've already had it," Strider said, sharing a look with Abyss, who just shrugged and looked at the hobbit again.

"We've had one, yes...but what about second breakfast?" Pippin told the Rangers. Abyss and Strider stare at Pippin blankly, then turn away, shaking their heads. Abyss looks back at them, knowing they might have a hard time, so Abyss throws an apple at Merry, who deftly catches it. Another, aimed at Pippin, catches him on the forehead, which causes Strider to chuckle softly as he hears Merry exasperated, "Pippin!"

They walk through to the edge of the snowy forest and are then shown sloshing through a messy bog, brushing bugs away from their faces. Merry mumbles to himself, "What do they eat when they can't get hobbit?"

Abyss shook her head at the hobbit, slightly amused, knowing it could get worse than this.

Not long after night, almost upon them, Strider went hunting, and Abyss watched the hobbits. Strider returned to camp carrying a deer over his shoulder, laying it before the halflings after nightfall. 

He was humming indistinctly, smoking, as the hobbits and Abyss slept.

"Who is she?" Frodo asked. Strider whirls his head around, "This woman you sing of."

Strider answered the hobbit, "'Tis the lady of Luthien- the Elf-maiden who gave her love to Beren, a mortal."

"What happened to her?"

Strider solemnly said, "She died." Turning back around, "Get some sleep, Frodo."

The next morning, Abyss woke them up. They continued the long walk. Abyss was right about the hobbits having a hard time as they trudged through the rain, looking tired, hungry, and miserable. But even though they were struggling, one of the hobbits had enough curiosity to ask, "So how does a maiden become a ranger?"

Abyss turns back to them before answering, "Hard work, wit, and a right hook." The hobbits tilted their heads at the answers but nodded when they realized she wasn’t going to say more and kept walking—the rugged countryside as the hobbits journeyed on, led by Strider and Abyss.

Strider stops before a distant hill topped by an Ancient Ruin. “We’ll make camp here tonight, Abyss.” 

She nods and tells the hobbits. “This was once the great Watchtower of Amon Sul. We shall rest here tonight."

Frodo, Merry, and Pippin collapse into a small hollow halfway up Weathertop… They are muddy and exhausted. Strider drops four small swords at the Hobbits' feet. "They’re for you. Keep them close. We're going to have a look around. Stay here."

She nodded, "We'll be back," once she said that, they molded into the shadows and scouted. After an hour, Abyss notices a light from the Watchtower and yells for Strider, "Strider! We have to hurry; the hobbits lit a fire, and the ringwraiths will notice!" Strider paled, and they took off running. They saw the ringwraiths cornering the hobbits. Strider lit a torch, and they both suddenly charged at the ringwraiths, wielding their swords. Strider quickly grabbed a flaming torch from the fire and held it in the other hand.

The rangers fought the ringwraiths, who were burning and screaming. Others screeched fearfully at the flames, turned, and fled from the Weathertop summit, but one of them cut Abyss on her forearm. Abyss let out a small yelp, but Sam’s panic covered it when he screamed, “Mr. Frodo!” Strider kneeled before Frodo. He snatched the Witch King’s Dagger from the ground, staring gravely at the long, thin blade.

"Help him, Strider!" Sam yelled at the ranger.

Strider grimly replied, "He's been stabbed by a Morgul blade." The Morgul Blade suddenly melted, vanishing into the air like smoke. Strider threw the hilt down in disgust.

"Do something!" Sam yelled.

Strider studies him for a few seconds, "This is beyond my skill to heal. He needs Elvish medicine." Strider lifts Frodo onto his shoulders. Strider turns to look at Abyss and grims when he sees blood dripping from her arm, hoping she wasn’t cut by the blade, but no such luck.

Strider is jogging grimly, carrying an ailing Frodo on his back. Sam, Merry, and Pippin are running to keep up. The hobbits carry flaming torches for protection. Abyss stayed in the back, making sure the hobbits didn’t fall behind and kept them running.

"Strider, we have to hurry!" Abyss looked at her hand and saw it was turning into a pale gray color. Sam noticed they were six days from Rivendell. Frodo wasn't looking any better, and he groaned in pain while unconscious. Frodo… his eyes flicker open… clouded, red-rimmed… his brow, beaded with sweat.

Pippin asked in a worried and frightened tone, "Is he going to die?" Frodo's breathing is getting shallow.

Strider and Abyss look out into the darkness. "He is passing into the shadow world. He will soon become a wraith like them." A distant cry of a Ringwraith carries through the air.

Merry nervously said, "They're close." 

Frodo gasps in sudden pain, and Abyss grabs her wrist from the sharp pain.

Strider thought hard and remembered, "Sam, do you know the Athelas plant?"

Sam looks blank, "Athelas?"

Abyss was tempted to hit her forehead. "Kingsfoil." Abyss tries to explain using a different word that’s more common to them.

Sam nodded when he heard the familiar plant, "Kingsfoil. Aye. It's a weed."

Strider and Abyss sigh in relief. “It may help to slow the poison. Hurry!” The hobbit searches with the rangers for the plant, and Strider turns to Abyss and moves them away to talk.

"Abyss, you’re injured as well." He said to his partner.

"I'm not as bad as the hobbit. I can handle this." Abyss tried to convince her friend, but he shook his head.

"I know, but I can't help who I am. Please go to the hobbit. We got this." 

Abyss bit the inside of her cheek before nodding and leaving the clearing to find the three hobbits. Sam and Strider desperately search the dark forest floor for the Athelas plant. 

Strider caught a small, white-flowered plant from a little way. He dropped to one knee, carefully pulling it from the ground. He sighed in relief, but before he could get up, he froze when a sword blade was to his neck. “What is this? A Ranger caught off his guard?” Strider slowly looked up and saw…

Abyss looks up when a bright light hits her and sees a welcoming face. Arwen has arrived to help.

"Who is she?" Pippin asked in awe.

Arwen worried, "Frodo?" Arwen got closer to the hobbit and saw Frodo was getting paler and more in a daze.

Sam awed, "She's an elf."

Arwen appears in her earth-bound form, a young Elven woman with tousled hair dressed in mud-splattered riding clothes. "He's fading...he's not going to last. We must get him to my father." Strider quickly lifts Frodo...placing him on the horse. Arwen held the reins and said, "I have been looking for you for two days."

Pippin asked in worry, "Where are you taking him?" 

Abyss placed a hand on his shoulder. He looked up and saw her shake her head before whispering, "We trust her. Please, you need to calm down and trust us so Frodo can live another day." Abyss wanted to welcome her friend but knew she would have her time. Arwen and Strider needed to hurry and get the sickly hobbit to Rivendell for help.

Arwen told Strider and Abyss the news she had encountered: “There are five Wraiths behind you. Where the other four are, I do not know."

Strider and Arwen started a conversation in Sindarin, which Abyss quickly picked up.

Strider said in worry, "Dartho guin Berian...rych le ad tolthathon." Abyss raises an eyebrow at him, thinking he can be too protected.

Arwen grabbed the reins and snapped back, "Hon mabathon. Rochoh ellint im." Abyss smirked at that because they both knew it was true.

Strider said, "Andelu I ven." The road is too dangerous, he says. Oh please. Abyss rolled her eyes.

Arwen said, "Frodo Fir. Ae anthradon I hir, tur gwaith nin beriatha hon." Abyss was nodding along with her knowledge.

Pippin asked, "What are they saying?"

Abyss shrugged and didn't want to say because she knew she would chuckle if the situation weren’t so dire.

Arwen reaches for Strider's hand… looking deep into his eyes. Arwen said, "I do not fear them."

Strider...Abyss can see that it is hard for him to let her go. But he knows she's right.

Arwen mounts her horse, Asfaloth...Abyss warns her, "Arwen… ride hard, don't look back."

Arwen nodded in thanks and looked down at Strider as she supported Frodo with one hand.

Arwen said to her horse, "Noro Lim, Asfaloth, Noro Lim!"

Sam yelled, "What are you doing!? Those Wraiths are still out there!"

Asfaloth springs away, bearing Arwen and Frodo into the night.

That was the last thing Abyss remembered that night.

Chapter Text

The first thing Abyss felt was the pain in her left hand, and the second was a gentle hand in her hair.

"How far are we?"

Strider carefully avoided the spikes in her hair and answered, "Welcome back. We will be in Rivendell in an hour or two."

"That's good." Abyss fell asleep again, but this time it was… quiet.

"Elizabeth, we're back." The two ranges looked up and saw the beautiful Rivendell—a small cluster of elegant Elven Buildings sitting in a Shangri-la-like Valley below towering cliffs and snow-capped mountains.

"It's good to be back." Elizabeth almost felt at peace as they rode up to the gates. They managed to get a few horses and rode horseback, waving at the guards and some friends. They helped their hobbit friends get down from the horse. Once that was done, they were greeted by a handsomely aged elf better known as…

"Lord Elrond..." The two nodded to their old friend, who was like a father to them, and hugged them back.

"Estel, Areth. My dear, you need help!" Lord Elrond notices the blood-soaked bandages and lightly touches them. Elizabeth breathes deeply as he does this, and her arm starts to feel better.

"Thank you.” Elizabeth checked her arm; it was sore but much better in color and movement. She asked, "How's Jack?" 

As if on cue, the elf, the two humans, and the three hobbits heard a voice singing in an off-tune, "Yo ho, yo ho, a pirate's life for me! Come on, everybody!"

Elizabeth looks at her lifetime friend, skipping around, singing, and holding a bottle of wine. "He's drunk."

"You’re surprised?" One of the guards asked while looking at the dirty human, still singing with disgust.

"Nope!" Elizabeth walked away and nodded to Jack as he approached the group. 

"What happened to the lass?"

"Ringwraith." The man said bluntly.

"Hm, has she said anything?" Jack asked.

"Nope." Lord Elrond answered and left to find Elizabeth before the pirate did something or said anything.

"Well then, come along. We have some hobbits to feed!" Jack grabbed the hobbits and the ranger and walked them to where the food was located.

Lord Elrond checked up on Elizabeth before sending her off. He told her no fighting or training and to take it easy for a day or two. Elizabeth went back to her room and changed into something comfortable.

While she was changing, Strider came in to check on her. "Elizabeth, how do you feel?"

Elizabeth walked out from behind her dressing area, and Strider saw the tattoos she was covered with. Some of the stories he knew, others not so much. “I had better days; the lord wants me to rest.” Elizabeth picked up a brush and untangled her hair from the braids.

"The day that happens is the day you'll be in peace." Strider softly grabbed the brush and did it for her.

"Thank you, Aragon." Strider's real name is Aragon.

Aragon caught her double meaning and knew what she needed: “Once you’re slightly better, we will spar."

Elizabeth released one of her rare smiles, which Aragon caught, "And she smiles; what a day!"

Elizabeth shook her head at her friend's actions. They did a final brush on her hair, and she looked out her window and saw the elves coming and going through the gate. "Are we having guests sometime soon?"

Aragon stands beside her and looks at the elves who got off their horses. "Yes, for there will be a Council. It will happen once Master Frodo awakes and everyone gets here."

"Lovely." Elizabeth leaned on the doorway. 

Aragon had a smirk on his face. "And you'll be there."

Elizabeth sharply looked at Aragon and, with narrowing eyes, said, “No.” Elizabeth walked back and started pacing in her room. "I know what that means."

"You have to." Aragon watches her get angry and hopes for the best.

"No, I will not. Have a good day.” Elizabeth put her foot down, kicked Aragon out of her room, and instantly fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow.

In the time of two days, Elizabeth and Jack were catching up with one another after Elizabeth stabbed him in the leg and slapped him across the face, which he deserved. Jack was telling Elizabeth the stories he heard from Bilbo, and the younger-ish elves were approaching him, asking him more about the sea and the different lands he'd been to. Elizabeth told him about the various areas she visited in Middle Earth and how she had gotten better at swordplay. Lord Elrond told Elizabeth she could now spar and fight as long as she didn’t overdo it. Elizabeth got some practice with Aragon and Jack and some of the other warrior elves that lived around. Some would bet who would win and who would lose, but it was all fun and games until the end of the day. Elizabeth and Arwen also had their time together and caught up with any missing things that happened in the past few months. Elizabeth told Arwen that she ensured Aragon didn't get into too much trouble.

The next day, Gandalf returned to Rivendell, tired and worn down as usual. However, after his journey, he got some food, a bath, and a good night’s sleep, and he looked better than ever.

Elizabeth and the Hobbits actually got to know one another and her friend, Jack. Like any other kid, it turns out the Hobbits love to hear his stories. Elizabeth learned more about the Hobbits and the Shire.

The next day, something amazing happened: Frodo woke up. Elizabeth was not looking forward to the Council because she was told she had to go.

It was a few hours before sunset. Elizabeth and Aragon were in a room with paintings of Isildur and Sauron, plus the broken sword.

"So... Tomorrow then..." Elizabeth was pacing the small room.

Aragon kept one eye on her and the other on the sword, "It would seem. Have you spoken to-"

"No, after what happened last time..."

"It's in the past. I'm sure he's forgotten."

Elizabeth scoffed, "Yes, while he was complimenting a human who looked like a beautiful elf maiden, she fainted from one look."

Aragon hid his smile and calmly placed his hands on her shoulders, "Elizabeth, just talked to him."

"I'm not sure if I can..." Elizabeth said softly. 

Aragon hadn’t seen Elizabeth get depressingly sad in a long time and knew how to get her out before it got bad, "Then spar with him or have him teach you archery... or at least pretend."

It worked. Elizabeth smirked at his distraction and pulled a book out of nowhere, "Very funny. Here. I found that book you wanted, but I shall look for him and try to talk, as a thank you... I'll send her this way."

"You're too kind."

Elizabeth walked away and left Aragorn to his brooding, "I know."

Elizabeth left Aragorn to his reading and ensured Arwen knew where to find him. So far, Elizabeth finds Jack asleep in the fountain, and his escort follows him and ensures he's not dead. A couple of dwarfs are still drinking, the men look at every corner of Rivendell, and the elves take in the moonlight.

Elizabeth couldn't find the one she was looking for, so she gave up and sat on one of Rivendell's many bridges. Without her knowing, Elizabeth was being watched. Elizabeth hummed a tune she had heard long ago from a particular sea goddess. Once she was finished, a soft, beautiful voice called out, “That was magnificent, Miss Swann." Elizabeth froze, for she still hadn't gotten used to the silky, smooth, deep voice. Elizabeth slowly turned her head and saw the one she was looking for.

"I hope you're not going to faint on me again." This one behind her with the amusing and beautiful voice was an elf. A handsome, silvered blonde hair, icy blue-eyed elf who also has the face of her late husband.

"Excuse me, but correct me if I'm wrong… but I do believe in telling you to call me Elizabeth or Areth, Legolas..."

Legolas bows to the self-exile king, "As you wish, my lady. If I may?"

"Of course."

Legolas smoothly sat down next to her.

The first time Elizabeth and Legolas met was a few months ago here in Rivendell when they stopped to check up on Jack before heading out. On her visit, another party of elves from Mirkwood came to Rivendell for some business. As it turns out, Aragon knew one of them and introduced him to Elizabeth.

Elizabeth had her nose in a book about The World of Men or something like that, but the elf couldn't help but speak in Sindarin and comment on her beauty. Elizabeth looked up and saw Aragon and a blonde elf. When she got up to thank him, she stopped.

It was as if she saw a ghost. All of a sudden, everyone saw Elizabeth in Legolas's arms, for she had fainted. Aragon and Legolas ran to try to find Lord Elrond.

Jack was in the background, and he knew what had happened because it had almost happened to him.

Legolas Greenleaf and Will Turner have the same face.

Once Elizabeth awoke, she didn't speak, but she did say her name. Legolas made it worse by calling her Lady Swann, Miss Swann, or My Lady. Legolas unknowingly brought back so many memories, but they had one good conversation before they went their separate ways. That’s how he finds out Elizabeth and Jack couldn't age.

Now was the first time in months they saw one another since that week.

"It's good to see you again, Elizabeth."

"And I you."

"I see you still can't look at me."

"Really now. My mistake."

Elizabeth and Legolas talked for two hours about everything and the upcoming council, but the conversation got a little heavy for Elizabeth when Legolas brought up her status.

Legolas softly grabbed her hand and looked into her widened but guarded golden eyes. “One day, you will see yourself as royalty again. And I will be there to ensure you don’t drift from the path, forgive yourself, and let go."

Elizabeth tried to look away, but she was unable to because he seemed so sincere. She couldn't risk it, "Do not make promises you can't keep..."

"With this, I will." Legolas kissed the inside of her wrist, and Elizabeth got up quickly and sped to the end of the bridge before turning around.

"Goodnight, Legolas."

Legolas watched the beautiful but sad maiden walk away from him. He got up as if he was going to chase her but whispered in his native language, "... Goodnight, my Lady."

Chapter Text

Golden beams of light fill the beautiful but simple room, and the lovely lady lies peacefully and almost contentedly in her sleep. However, today was a day she did not want to go through at all.

"My lady, you must get up..." An elf maiden was shaking Elizabeth as gently as possible, who didn't want to get up and buried herself deeper into the soft blanket.

Elizabeth covered her head and groaned, "For what reason?"

"The Council, my lady..."

Elizabeth peered out the covers and glared at the elf maiden, but a soft one: “I’m not wearing that bloody corset. Those things can kill. I should know I almost drowned once wearing that bloody thing.” Elizabeth remembered a time full of dresses and nobles who were entirely too stuck up for their own good.

The elf maiden rolled her eyes and made a compromise about today’s outfit: “My lady, please. We’ll pick something else out, but you must get up."

After a minute of lying in bed thinking about it, Elizabeth spoke.

"...Fine."

After less than an hour, Elizabeth was ready and looking beautiful. She was wearing a long-sleeved dark blue and white gown, and her hair was in a single braid that rested on her left shoulder, hiding one tattoo.

Aragorn was waiting outside her room to escort her to where the Council of Elrond was being held.

“Let’s get this over with.” Elizabeth walked past Aragorn, done with the day already.

Aragorn chuckled and quickly caught up to the pirate. He looked at the dress with a raised eyebrow because it had been a while since he had seen her in a dress. “Beautiful dress,” he said.

“Do shut up.” She rolled her eyes but continued to walk with a grace that only an elf could match.

The Council was held in one of the many outdoor rooms, which can accommodate a large number of visitors without being too crowded. It was a porch where many would meet up with their friends, but today, it’s the place where they decide their future. Elizabeth and Aragorn walked in together with Gandalf and Frodo right behind them. Elizabeth observed everyone from Gandalf and Frodo, along with a congregation of Men, Elves, and Dwarves, sit in a semicircle around a stone pedestal. Elizabeth sat next to Frodo at the end of the circle but across from Aragorn and near Lord Elrond. Some of the males didn’t think she should be there, but Elizabeth shut them up pretty quickly, and no one complained after that.

Lord Elrond started the council. Elizabeth could barely hear him as she was paying attention to something else—or, rather, someone else near the arches right behind Aragorn. If she looked over her shoulder, one more voice reached her ears. Elizabeth sighs but knows this is going to be interesting.

“Strangers of distant lands, friends of old. You have been summoned here to answer the threat of Mordor. Middle-Earth stands upon the brink of destruction. None can escape it. You will unite, or you will fall. Each race is bound to this fate-this one doom." Gestures to the pedestal. "Bring forth the Ring, Frodo." Elizabeth sees Frodo rise from the corner of her eye and watches as he lays the Ring on the pedestal and returns to his seat.

People start whispering.

A man from Gondor puts his hand to his mouth, "So it is true..."

"The Doom of Men..." Another man said.

Frodo sits back down and sighs, closing his eyes. Elizabeth reached over and gently squeezed the shaken Hobbit’s shoulder.

Legolas and Gimli eye the Ring suspiciously as it seemingly speaks to them. Elizabeth could feel the whispers, but it was as if she could wave the words away if a single thought. She already had what she needed and lost it. Nothing the Ring can promise her will make her feel whole again. As she was lost in thought, Gandalf finished speaking the dark speech and apologized to Lord Elrond because Boromir didn’t understand gravity. The Ring wasn’t something to control but destroy. He still doesn’t understand.

Boromir stands up and shakes his head, "It is a gift. A gift to the foes of Mordor. Why not use this Ring?" He paces, "Long has my father, the Steward of Gondor, kept the forces of Mordor at bay. By the blood of our people, your lands are kept safe! Give Gondor the weapon of the enemy. Let us use it against him!"

"You cannot wield it!" Boromir turns to face Aragon, who speaks up. "None of us can. The One Ring answers to Sauron alone. It has no other master."

Boromir scathingly, "And what would a ranger know of this matter?"

Just before Elizabeth can give the man a piece of her mind, someone else does it for her. Legolas stands suddenly, "This is no mere ranger. He is Aragorn, son of Arathorn. You owe him your allegiance."

Boromir looks at Aragorn in disbelief, "Aragorn? This... is Isildur's heir?”

Elizabeth can feel Frodo looking at Aragorn, amazed.

"In other words, he's heir to the throne of Gondor," Elizabeth said suddenly, still looking at the shadows. Frodo looks wide-eyed at Aragorn.

Aragorn sighed, "Havo dad Legolas, Areth."

Boromir turns to Legolas, "Gondor has no King." He walks back to his seat, staring at Aragorn. "Gondor needs no King." He stares at Aragorn disdainfully.

"Aragorn is right. We cannot use it." Gandalf said.

"You have only one choice. The Ring must be destroyed." Lord Elrond told them.

"What are we waiting for?" Gimli grabs an axe and approaches the pedestal, "ARGH!" Gimli strikes the Ring with full force but is repelled back, throwing him to the ground.

Concurrently, Frodo sees the Eye of Sauron in his mind and winces in pain. Elizabeth squeezes Frodo again but hasn’t taken back her hand just yet. The Ring remains intact, with the shards of the axe all around it—whispers in the black tongue issue forth from the Ring.

"The Ring cannot be destroyed, Gimli, son of Gloin, by any craft that we here possess. The Ring was made in the fires of Mount Doom. Only there can it be unmade. It must be taken deep into Mordor and cast back into the fiery chasm from whence it came." Lord Elrond said as the Ring whispered in the background. "One of you must do this." Dead silence from the council.

"One does not simply walk into Mordor. Its black gates are guarded by more than just orcs. There is evil there that does not sleep. And the Great Eye is ever watchful. It is a barren wasteland. Riddled with fire and ash and dust. The very air you breathe is a poisonous fume. Not with ten thousand men could you do this." Boromir shakes his head, "It is folly!"

Legolas stands indignantly, "Have you heard nothing Lord Elrond has said? The Ring must be destroyed!"

Gimli leaps to his feet, "And I suppose you think you're the one to do it?!"

Boromir rises, "And if we fail, what then?! What happens when Sauron takes back what is his?!"

"I will be dead before I see the Ring in the hands of an elf!" Commotion starts as arguments erupt among the council members, "Never trust an elf!"

Elizabeth saw out of the corner of her eye that Gandalf was getting into an argument: “Do you not understand that while we bicker amongst ourselves, Sauron’s power grows?! None can escape it!"

Frodo remains seated, watching the Ring uneasily, the angry figures of the council reflected on its surface. Suddenly, flames flare up, engulfing the surface of the Ring.

Ash Nazg Durbatuluk! Ash Nazg Gimbatul! Ash Nazg Gimbatul! Ash Nazg Gimbatul!

The intensity of the arguments increases. So Elizabeth made a hand motion, and out of nowhere...

Captain Jack Sparrow joins the party with his usual flair.

"Now, this is what I call politics!" The arrival of Captain Jack Sparrow shocks everyone out of their argument as Jack walks around like he owns the place, and some of the elves who know him groan, "It almost reminds me of the Brethren Court, eh Lizzie." Jack walks around and looks at the ring. "All of this just for a little ring." Jack walked around and got into a few people's faces, who leaned back to get away from his breath that smelled of wine, "It doesn't look like much. Aye?" Jack swaggers around again. "So you all can argue on who gets to deal with it and let your greed consume you and let the world die." He made an exaggerated hand motion and got close to one of the dwarves. "I very much like to stay alive."

Jack moves over to the front of the semi-circle where Lord Elrond, Aragorn, and Elizabeth are. "Or you all can listen to these fine gentlemen and lady and save the world!" Jack motioned himself to continue, and Elizabeth… well, she thinks this will be bad or disastrous. It’s always a toss-up when Jack is involved. "I'm a pirate. A captain. A bloody pirate lord! And yes! I love gold, so I know the need, but I don't need it to feel... Free. I already got what I wanted, and this thing... This little thing has no meaning." Jack picked up the ring, and everyone gasped when he put it on. "I mean, see! It doesn't even look good on me finger! What a shame. Oh well." Jack put the ring back on the pedestal and grinned at Elizabeth, who had her head in her hand for his… boldness. She has no one to blame but herself, but Jack doesn’t need to know that.

She points to the spot behind her and demands, “Jack, stand over here now.”

"Aye, aye, Your Majesty." Jack teased and quickly walked over.

"Quiet. You're not helping." Elizabeth glared at her long-time friend but was grateful he gave everyone the well-needed breather before they jumped the gun again.

"Why should we listen to you?!" And just like that, everyone snapped out of their daze from the newcomer and returned to arguing.

"Well, that didn't take long," Jack commented. He took a swig from his bottle and offered it to Elizabeth, who declined.

Slowly, determination dawns on Frodo's face. He stands and takes a few steps toward the arguing council, trying to make his voice heard above the din. "I will take it!" They continue to argue, not hearing him say, "I will take it!" Gandalf hears his young hobbit friend and closes his eyes in sorrow, "I will take the Ring to Mordor." They all stop and look at him in awe. "Tho, I do not know the way."

Gandalf turns to face Frodo, "I will help you bear this burden, Frodo Baggins, as long as it is yours to bear." He walks and pats Frodo’s shoulder before standing behind him.

Aragorn, who has not joined in the arguments so far, stands with Elizabeth by his side. "If by my life or death, I can protect you, I will.” He walks up to Frodo and kneels before him. "You have my sword."

Elizabeth gracefully kneels, "I go where he goes, and he goes where I go. You have my sword and my word. This will change you, my young friend, but know you are not alone."

Gandalf smiles and winks at Elrond, who smiles proudly at the two adults.

"And you have my bow." Legolas walks over to join the others.

Not trusting an elf or woman, Gimli shouts, "And my axe!" Looking at Legolas, who grimaces, he, too, joins the others.

"You carry the fate of us all, little one." Boromir walks towards them, "If this is indeed the will of the Council, then Gondor will see it done."

Peering through the bushes, Sam shouts and runs to join Frodo, "Mr Frodo's not going anywhere without me!"

"No, indeed, it is hardly possible to separate you, even when he is summoned to a secret council, and you are not!" Lord Elrond annoyingly said and glared at Jack. Causing Pippin and Merry, who were listening to all this from behind some pillars. They ran in.

"Ah! My new eavesdropping friends have joined the party." Jack cheered and pulled out another bottle of wine. Where he got it, no one knew, but he drank some more.

"Wait! We're coming too!" Merry and Pippin ran and joined the others. Lord Elrond looks astounded.

"You'd have to send us home tied up in a sack to stop us," Merry said as firmly as he could.

"Anyway, you need people of intelligence on this sort of mission ...quest ...thing," Pippin confusedly said.

Merry rolled his eyes, "Well, that rules you out, Pip."

Lord Elrond looks at the ten standing together. "Ten companions... So be it! You shall be the Fellowship of the Ring!"

"Great! Where are we going?" Pippin asked, causing a reaction of groaning and amusement.

In the garden of Rivendell, the Hobbits stand waiting with Gimli and Boromir. Legolas runs down some steps to join them and smoothly hands Elizabeth a blue rose. Jack is drinking his fill once more, and his escort looks like he wants to run away from the pirate.

Elizabeth silently chuckles as she touches the petals. "Jack."

He looks at the lady who said his name and puts down the bottle. "Yes, lass?"

"Should I expect you to join us later?"

"I hear that the elves might be leaving and moving on. Whatever that means." Elizabeth shook her head, but she knew what it meant. The age of elves is coming to an end, and a new age will arise, but that all depends on the outcome of this journey. “So yes, but it’s going to be around the sea. I’m a pirate, after all.” Jack joked and walked away with his usual swag.

Elizabeth looks at the horizon and whispers, "So am I."

Elizabeth walks away from the group, and without knowing it again, someone follows her.

Elizabeth goes to a small clearing, a secret garden of sorts, whenever Aragorn and she come to visit Rivendell. This is where she comes and thinks or wants quiet. It’s a rosebush that grew into a spiral-like shape, and a few pieces of rose vines climbed up the tree. On the other side of the rosebush is a waterfall, and the moon hits the river just right to create a beautiful, peaceful view.

Aragorn and Jack discovered she liked this area and placed a bench so she wouldn’t have to sit on the wet grass. However, they respect her privacy and leave her alone until they need her or remind her to eat, sleep, or stop training to relax.

Elizabeth sat on the bench and looked at the stars that shone through the roses. Sighing, she got up and found an opening between the roses. She reached in and pulled out two swords and a box.

Inside the box were two necklaces: one was her nine-piece of eighth. The last Brethren Court made new ones to pass down from Lord to Lord. They look about the same but newer to a point. The second necklace was the one Will made for her. The chain was broken, but the pendant was still intact. She put the two pendants on one necklace and put it on.

The two swords are her King’s Sword and Lord’s Sword. Both are beautiful and deadly, just like their owner.

Elizabeth practiced a few swings, and it was as if they had never left her hand. She put them to the side and sat down again.

Elizabeth was lost in thought in the garden about the upcoming journey. Although she doesn't look old, she feels the weight of the years she's been in. But hasn't lived. The loss of her family, the wars, the changing times, and the coming of a different world.

Luckily, she was used to the odd and the unexpected. But this journey—this adventure—may be what she needs to heal fully.

"So this is where you hide out, my lady." 

Elizabeth was once again brought out of her thoughts by the same elf from last night. "Legolas..."

Legolas walked into the rose spiral, and he was in front of her, making her tilt her head up to look at him. "I was… concerned."

Elizabeth's golden eyes soften. Sometimes, subconsciously, she compares Legolas and Will. They are different, yes, but there’s something in Legolas’s eyes, in his words, that very much reminds her of Will. At the same time, she can see his age. His eyes almost resemble hers, Jack’s, and Aragon’s. They are all old, and they can relate. It’s the reason why it's easy to talk to one another.

Elizabeth snapped out of her thoughts when she saw an amused glint in his eyes, "Thank you, but you don't-"

The silver prince cuts her off and, with three simple words, tells her everything she needs to know.

"I want to."

"Thank you..."

Chapter Text

The Fellowship had two days to prepare for their upcoming journey. Elizabeth took the time to finish healing her arm, which now had a faded scar. Due to her ‘gift,’ Elizabeth could get hurt and feel the pain, but after a few days, it seemed like it never happened or that she had gotten injured years ago. Plus, she had done some unsavory tests on herself. It wasn’t the outcome she wanted.

She started practicing with her swords in the training yard. A few elves were there practicing archery and knew to keep away from Elizabeth due to a few accidents that happened here and there.

 As she was practicing, someone was watching her.

The ranger watches his partner practice with two swords he hasn't seen in over a year.

One of the swords is a beautiful, slightly curved katana with a gold handle and red wrappings at the hilt. That is her Pirate Lord of the South China Sea Sword. Its name is Shuǐlóng, Water Dragon, and it was leaning on a pole waiting to be used.

The sword in her hand is a majestic original cutlass with gold markings and words. It is made of unique metal and is very sharp to the touch. This one's name is Liberty. The blade was made for a king, but sometimes, it seemed it was made for Elizabeth to wield.

Both swords are beautiful, graceful, and just as deadly as their owner.

Aragorn stepped out from the shadows and said, "I see you finally brought them out."

Elizabeth saw Aragorn in the corner of her eye as she swung her sword to the left and up again. "It was time. No more hiding who I am. How about you?"

Aragorn sighed, knowing this would be a heavy and possibly painful conversation. "I am not strong like you- Hey!" Aragorn had to duck and jump out of the way before he lost his head. They had many spars, many of them, out of anger or frustration, so he knew how vicious she could be.

Elizabeth had the sword where his neck was but knew he was fast enough to move. She glared at him. "Say that again. I dare you."

He sighed and slowly raised his hands as the sword followed him. He tried to explain, “I don’t want that burden...” but the angry woman cut him off.

Elizabeth sometimes dislikes how similar they can be in their stubbornness, mannerisms, and how they help people. Still, mostly, she hates how he chains himself to the past, believing history will repeat itself. “It’s in your blood! As in mine! We can not hide who we are anymore! Aragorn… Now is the time. We both have seen the signs calling to us.” Elizabeth puts the sword down but still holds on tight. Elizabeth and Aragorn stare at one another, watching, waiting for who will give first.

Aragorn looked away first, "You don't understand-"

"No! I do understand! More than anyone else! I went into exile because I felt like I didn't belong with my people! But it was because I lost the person I love. I felt like I had no meaning! No reason to live! But here and now. It's time I take responsibility for myself and those who believe in me! No more hiding behind a mask… The mask of a ranger, pirate, widow, and so on. It's time for me to become who I was born to be. As should you. You! Aragorn! One of the strongest people I know and the bravest man, I had the pleasure of working as a partner, knowing you would not give up on me." Aragon looked down and knew it was hard to argue with her when she had a point. "You are afraid of what's in your blood. Well, guess what? You are the master of yourself. Not your ancestors, not your father, mother, or whoever! No one but you. You have a choice: to be afraid or make a difference."

Once Elizabeth stopped yelling at him, Aragorn huffed and smirked, remembering a time when Captain Sparrow told him about the famous Pirate King, a strong woman who enlightens everyone she meets and gives them back the purpose they have forgotten. "So this is the real you. The Pirate King that Captain Sparrow speaks highly of. It's nice to meet this side of you. I can see why your people chose to follow you into war." And here she is in the flesh. He can see the fire in her eyes, which is the most emotion he has seen in Elizabeth in a while. Aragorn sighed, "But you're right... I am afraid. I'm afraid I will make the same mistakes and repeat history. I fear that I won't be a great king, that I will be men's doom."

She smiled sadly, knowing the feeling all too well. She approached him and placed her right hand on his left cheek to make him look at her. Her eyes are soft but full of passion and honesty, "Aragorn, you don't have to be a great king, just a good man, one who is fair, kind, and loyal. Be yourself. If you see something repeating, then stand up and change it. Make it your own to the future you want to see. Change is good, not at first, but in the long run... yes, it is."

Aragorn held her hand to keep it in place and just breathe. Listening to her heart, the whispers in the wind, feeling the gentle breeze and the sunlight hitting his face.

Elizabeth saw what he was thinking. She slowly moved back, removed her hand, and sheathed her sword back in its cover. She looked at him again and in his eyes told her he was ready, and so she asked...

"So tell me. Am I looking at Strider, the Ranger, or Aragorn, King of Gondor..."

The two days passed, and everyone said their goodbyes in Rivendell.

Lord Elrond is speaking outside in Rivendell to the Fellowship and his people, "The Ringbearer is setting out on the quest of Mount Doom and you who travel with him," The Fellowship is standing in front of him, "No oath nor bond is laid to go further than you will," Aragorn smiles at Arwen who drops her head. Elizabeth rolled her eyes as Jack grabbed another bottle from somewhere behind him and waved like a madman. "Farewell. Hold to your purpose and may the blessings of elves," looking at Legolas, "and men," looking at Boromir, "and all free folk," looking at Gimli, "go with you.” 

Lord Elrond raises his hand and gestures for them to leave. Gandalf, Aragorn, Legolas, and Elizabeth put a hand to their heart as if they were giving it away.

"The Fellowship awaits the Ringbearer," Gandalf said as everyone parts so Frodo can lead.

Frodo looks nervously around and turns to walk through the arches. "Mordor, Gandalf. Is it left or right?"

Gandalf places a hand on his shoulder, "Left."

Frodo leads out, followed by Gandalf, Gimli, Boromir, Pippin, Merry, Legolas, Elizabeth, and Sam. Aragorn pauses and looks back at Arwen. They exchange a long glance. Aragorn smiles, nods his head, and follows the others. Arwen swallows and bows her head. Jack places a hand on her shoulder in support, knowing their friends will be alright.

They watch the Fellowship leave Rivendell.

The Fellowship walked over mountains, past ancient ruins, and over hills.

"We must hold this course west of the Misty Mountains for forty days. If our luck holds, the Gap of Rohan will still be open to us. And there are road turns east to Mordor." Gandalf said in passing.

Sam takes sausages from a frying pan on an open fire. He walks over with the plate to Frodo, sitting on a stone, watching Merry and Pippin practice sword fighting with Boromir. Elizabeth and Aragorn look on, also smoking a shared pipe.

"Good, very good." Boromir continues to practice with Pippin.

"Move your feet!" Aragorn called out.

"Keep your chest up," Elizabeth said.

"You look good, Pippin," Merry commented.

Pippin looked over his shoulder at Merry. “Thanks!” Merry joined the practice. Sam and Frodo looked on, grinning.

Gimli sits behind them on the rocks near Gandalf while Legolas stands and keeps watch. "If anyone was to ask for my opinion, which I note that they're not, I'd say that we were taking the long way round. Gandalf, we could pass through the Mines of Moria. My cousin Balin would give us a royal welcome."

Gandalf looks slightly distressed at the option, "No, Gimli, I would not take the road through Moria unless I had no other choice."

Legolas runs in front of them and stands and stares at a gray cloud in the distance. Gandalf pauses to follow his eyes.

Meanwhile, Boromir's sword slips, and he cuts Pippin’s hand with it. Pippin drops his sword and yells in pain, "ARGH!"

"Sorry!" Boromir steps forward to look at Pippin's hand. But Pippin wasn't as forgiving, so Pippin kicked Boromir in the leg.

"Get him!" Merry throws himself at Boromir. The two hobbits gang together to wrestle Boromir to the ground and jump on him. Aragorn looks on, amused.

"For the Shire. Hold him, hold him down, Merry!" Boromir laughs as the hobbits tickle him.

Aragorn gets up and takes hold of the hobbits. "Gentlemen, that's enough!" Merry and Pippin grab Aragorn's legs, throwing him backward onto the ground.

Elizabeth watches from the sidelines, releases a snort, and giggles quietly, but a certain elf hears her. One can tell by his ears turning pink. He tries to scout without distraction, but it does not work.

Pippin was pinned down by Aragorn's feet and yelled, "You've got my arm... Argh!... You've got my arm!"

Elizabeth shook her head, got up from her makeshift seat on a rock, and helped Aragorn get up. "Alright, enough horseplay. It’s time to eat."

As the hobbits looked excited and ran towards Sam to get their food, Boromir stared at the female, trying to figure out why she was there. Aragorn saw this look and knew Boromir would be badly hurt if he said something inappropriate. Elizabeth rolled her eyes, grabbed her plate, and ate her food.

Sam stands up and notices that the cloud, looking like dark specks, is moving towards them. "What is that?"

Gimli looked at the dark speck and shrugged, "Nothing, it's just a wisp of cloud."

Boromir, pausing from eating his food, looks up. "It's moving fast... against the wind."

Legolas looks at it closely and warns everyone, his eyes widening just a little: "Crebain! From Dudland!"

"Hide!" Aragorn runs to grab his swords.

Boromir panicked, "Hurry!"

Aragorn grabs his sword and pulls Frodo close to him. "Frodo! Take cover!"

They all ran, gathering their things and dousing the fire, and dashed under the rocks out of sight. Legolas and Elizabeth ran into one another and fell into a bush. They were hidden, but it was unexpected.

A great flock of black crows flew over them, circled around, and then flew off. Everyone stayed in their hiding spots for another minute in case of more birds.

Legolas watched them and continued to until he saw they were gone. Then he looked at his chest and saw the most beautiful golden brown eyes look at him.

Legolas smiled and couldn't help but stare at the beauty before him. “They’re gone, my Lady."

Elizabeth blinked, but a soft smile crept on her face. “How many times must I tell you?"

"As you wish... Elizabeth."

"Come on." Elizabeth got up and helped Legolas and the rest of the Fellowship emerge from their hiding places.

"Spies of Saruman. The passage south is being watched." Gandalf spats as Frodo looks distressed. We must take the Pass of Caradhras.” They look up at the snowy peaks of the mountains.

"Oh, this is going to be fun." Aragorn and Legolas heard Elizabeth mumble and slightly smirked at her annoyed face.

Chapter Text

The Fellowship spent a few extra days walking up the snowy slopes of the mountain. Frodo stumbles, falls, and rolls back down the slope. Elizabeth tries to catch him, but he passes her: “Frodo!” Aragorn catches him and picks him up. Elizabeth sighs in relief.

Frodo brushes the snow off himself and notices that the Ring is no longer hanging around his neck. Further up the mountain, the Ring is picked up on its chain. Frodo looks concerned. Boromir holds the Ring dangling in front of his face in awe. Gandalf turns around. Everyone looks concerned.

Aragorn and Elizabeth don't like the look in his eyes as he dangles the Ring, so they call out to him, "Boromir..."

"It is a strange fate that we should suffer so much fear and doubt over such a small thing." He is mesmerized by it. "Such a little thing." He raises his hand to touch the Ring dangling on the chain.

Elizabeth grips her katana tightly, and Aragorn has an idea of what might happen. But Aragorn urgently says his name: "Boromir!" Boromir abruptly stops, halted from his isolation.

"Give the Ring to Frodo," Elizabeth tells Boromir, whom she is still behind. And her grip tightened even more so.

Boromir looks shocked, walks to a worried Frodo, and holds out the Ring. Frodo snatches it from him. "As you wish! I care not." He grins, hesitates as he sees Aragorn's face, laughs, and ruffles Frodo's hair before walking off and passing Elizabeth, who watches Boromir's back like a hawk. Glaring at his back as he talks to the other hobbits, as this happens, her grip does not loosen one bit. Aragorn stares after him as well and releases his grip on his sword before walking up to Elizabeth.

Aragorn whispered, "Calm down. He will not hurt them."

Elizabeth kept a hard glare for another second, then sighed, letting go of her katana. “That’s not what I’m worried about.” She had a bad feeling that whatever turn they took would not go as planned.

After a few hours of hiking the mountain, Elizabeth, as usual, was right. The Crebain did see them and told Saruman, who cast a spell to make the Fellowship struggle around the side of the mountain through deep snow, strong winds, and heavy snowfall. As the Fellowship struggled on, the hobbits were being carried by Aragorn and Boromir, who were thigh-deep in the snow. Legolas lightly walked across the snow, past them to the head of the line. He listens as he hears echoes in the wind.

Cuiva nwalca Carnirasse; nai yarvaxea rasselya !

"There is a fell voice in the air!" Legolas stated.

"It's Saruman!" Gandalf warns everyone, but a mighty crack is heard overhead, and great chunks of rock fall down from the mountaintop, narrowly missing them.

"He's trying to bring down the mountain!" Elizabeth yelled over the harsh wind.

"Gandalf! We must turn back!" Aragorn proclaimed.

"No!" Gandalf steps out to the edge of the path. " Losto Caradhras, sedho, hodo, nuitho i 'ruith !"

Cuiva nwalca Carnirasse; Nai yarvaxea rasselya; taltuva notto-carinnar !

A great streak of lightning hits the top of the mountain above the Fellowship, and an avalanche of snow rains down on top of them, burying them underneath it. Moments later, Legolas emerges from the snow. He looks around to see the others emerge, especially a certain pirate.

Elizabeth emerges as she shakes off the snow and listens to the men argue which way to go; Boromir wants to go to the Gap of Rohan, but Aragorn knows it's too close to Isengard. Gimli wants to go through the Mines of Moria, but Elizabeth can see fear in Gandalf's eyes, thinking that way may be worse.

"Let the Ringbearer decide..." Gandalf looks to Frodo, who looks confused and turns to Sam

"We cannot stay here!" Merry and Pippin look frozen and scared next to Boromir, "This will be the death of the hobbits!"

"Frodo?"

Frodo hesitates, not liking to make the choice, but has to anyway. "We will go through the Mines."

"So be it."

' I hate caves !' Elizabeth thought to herself as she turned around to walk back.

It took one week for the Fellowship to walk through a misty, rocky valley.

Elizabeth gets annoyed with Boromir, and he asks her if she can fight. She's very close to knocking him out. Gimli and his chatter about his cousin and Moria. And the hobbits with their eating habits. She can tolerate them but there comes a time when she needs a little peace and quiet. She was starting to miss the Rangers a bit.

Aragorn could see his partner about to blow a vein and was a little worried about the companions around them. Legolas just looked amused as they got closer to the mine.

"Elizabeth..." She tilts her head to the side, showing that she’s listening. "How's your arm?"

Elizabeth quickly glanced at Aragorn before sighing, "It's fine. Lord Elrond healed it perfectly.” She looked at her glove-covered hand. She was telling the truth; it didn’t hurt or cause discomfort, but she would have a scar on her forearm. "Besides, it's not as bad as wearing a corset."

Aragorn chuckled, knowing full well how much she loathes clothing. She would rather wear a shirt and pants or at least a loose dress than a tight, barely breathing corset. After all, she once burned them and threatened someone with putting them in it and seeing how they would like it on. That was a fun moment.

Gimli pauses and points, "Ah! The walls of Moria!"

In front of them, a great, sheer, flat cliff face appears. "Dwarf doors are invisible when closed." Gimli taps the wall with his axe.

"Yes, Gimli! Their own masters cannot find them if their secrets are forgotten!" Gandalf huffed.

"Why doesn't that surprise me!" Legolas stated. The dwarf was annoyed by the elf's statement, which Elizabeth rolled her eyes at.

Frodo stumbles, and his foot slips into the edge of a lake. He looks around, worried. The Fellowship continues to walk on.

Gandalf stops and rubs his hand over a smooth part of the wall. "Ah... now let me see... Ithildin," his hands brush away the dirt to reveal patterns in the stone. "It mirrors only starlight..." he looks up to see the clouds move away from the moon, "And moonlight." As he speaks, the patterning on the door shines brightly, revealing an ornate door with elvish writing above it on the arch.

Gimli looks in awe.

Gandalf points at the writing with his staff, "It reads: The Doors of Durin, Lord of Moria, Speak Friend and Enter."

"What do you suppose that means?" Pippin asked.

"Oh, it's quite simple. If you are a friend, you speak the password, and the doors will open.” The wizard says. Then he turns back to the door and holds his staff against the star in its center. " Annon Edhellen, edro hi ammen!"

Pippin grins widely, but nothing happens. Gandalf looks confused and clears his throat. He holds up both his hands. " Fennas Nogothrim, lasto beth lammen. " Still, nothing happens. Gimli grunts. Legolas looks at him with a raised eyebrow.

Pippin speaking to Legolas, "Nothing's happening..."

Gandalf walks up to the door and tries to push it. "I once knew every spell in all the tongues of elves, men, and orcs."

"What're you going to do then?" Elizabeth hits her forehead as the hobbit asks the distressed wizard with an obvious tone.

Gandalf turns to the hobbit and, in Elizabeth's opinion, acts like a cranky old man, "Knock your head against these doors, Peregrin Took! And if that does not shatter them, and I'm allowed a little peace from foolish questions, I will try to find the opening words."

The Fellowship are sitting and waiting for Gandalf to come up with the right words. They sit around on the rocks.

Gandalf mutters, " Ando Eldarinwa... a lasta quettanya, Fenda Casarinwa... "

Aragorn is helping Sam remove the baggage from Bill the Pony, "The Mines are no place for a pony, even one so brave as Bill."

"Bye, bye Bill..." Sam sadly said his goodbye to his brave pony.

"Go on, go on." Aragorn gives him a push. "Don't worry, Sam. He knows the way home." Sam looks concerned, and the pony walks away.

Merry starts throwing rocks into the lake. Pippin joins him. Elizabeth sees this and quickly grabs Pippin’s arm before he can throw another rock. "Do not disturb the water." She looks out at it concerned.

Gandalf throws down his staff and walks towards Frodo, who is sitting down. "Oh, it's useless..."

Aragorn is watching the water as ripples start to appear. Boromir walks up behind him and looks concerned.

Elizabeth slightly pales, "Oh, please don't be what I think it is." Images of the Pearl, Jack, and a specific sea creature come to mind.

Frodo suddenly stands up and looks at the door's writing. "It's a riddle!"

The ripples on the water turn to waves. Pippin looks worried.

"Speak, friend... and enter. What's the elvish word for friend?" Frodo turns to Gandalf, who looks uncertain but impressed.

The ripples move towards the shore.

" Mel..lon... "

A great crack is heard, and the doors swing open. Gandalf chuckles. Gimli removes his pipe from his mouth and looks around. The Fellowship gets up as Gandalf leads the way through the doors, placing a crystal on the top of his staff. Aragorn and Elizabeth look backward at the lake before entering.

Elizabeth kept an ear on the lake and somewhat heard Gimli boast about the dwarves’ hospitality. But a strange and familiar smell came to her as Gandalf blew on the crystal in his staff, and it lit up. She looked across the light and uncovered many dead corpses and skeletons on the stairs in front of them.

"A Mine!"

Boromir looked around him, "This isn't a mine. It’s a tomb!"

They all look about them to see the skeletons of dwarves with arrows sticking out of them.

Gimli ran to a corpse, "Nooooo! NOOOOOOOOOOoooooooo!" He shouts in disbelief, sadness, and anger.

Legolas pulling an arrow from a skeleton. He looks at it in distaste, "Goblins!" He throws it down.

Aragorn and Boromir draw their swords, and Legolas loads his bow with an arrow.

Boromir, "We make for the Gap of Rohan. We should never have come here!"

The hobbits huddle together, backing out of the mines.

"Now get out of here! Get out!"

Elizabeth followed their lead, but before she drew her sword, a slimy tentacle grabbed her leg and made Frodo suddenly fall. A large tentacle had crept into the mine from the water and grabbed him.

"A bloody kraken! You must be bloody joking!" Elizabeth shouted furiously as she stabbed the tentacle holding her. “Let. Go. Of. Me. You bloody slimy creature!”

"Elizabeth!"

"Frodo! Frodo!"

The tentacle pulls Frodo out of the cave.

"Strider! Abyss!" Sam slashes at the tentacle with his sword and frees Frodo.

"Get off them!"

The other two hobbits drag him backward.

"Aragorn!"

The tentacle withdraws. Suddenly, many tentacles jump out of the water, knocking the hobbits over, grabbing Frodo by the leg, pulling him back, and dangling him in the air above the water with Elizabeth.

"No! Let him go!" Elizabeth thrashed harder to get out of the tentacle's grip.

"Frodo!" Merry yelled.

Legolas appears and fires an arrow at it, but the creature does not let go.

"Strider!" Frodo screams in fear.

"Frodo! Hang on!" Elizabeth finally cuts through the tentacle holding her, and Aragorn manages to catch her. They and Boromir slash at the tentacles, cutting them off, but more appear. Frodo is drawn into the center, where a body appears and a huge gaping mouth with great teeth. He screams. Boromir cuts through a tentacle, and Aragorn cuts through the tentacle holding Frodo. Frodo falls, and Boromir catches him.

"Into the Mines!" Gandalf calls them and hurries.

"Legolas!" Boromir shouts as the creature advances on Aragorn and Boromir, who is still carrying Frodo and struggling to get out of the water. Legolas fires an arrow into the creature's body. It groans and backs off momentarily. The Fellowship hurries through the door with the creature following them. It tears at the doorway, bringing it crashing down and blocking the entrance once again dark.

"I hate Krakens."

Chapter Text

In the dark cave, Gandalf lights his staff. “We now have but one choice. We must face the long dark of Moria. Be on your guard; there are older and fouler things than orcs in the deep places of the world.” He walks off, leading the way up the steps. “Quietly now, it’s a four-day journey to the other side. Let us hope that our presence may go unnoticed."

They walk through great caverns, over narrow bridges, and through disused mines with abandoned ladders and chains. Gandalf stops as he notices silvery white lines in the rock face and gently touches them. "The wealth of Moria is not in gold or jewels, but Mithril."

He shines his staff into the cavern below, and everyone looks down in awe at the intense abandoned mines. "Bilbo had a shirt of mithril rings that Thorin gave him."

"Aww, that was a Kingly gift..." Gimli said in awe.

"Yes. I never told him, but its worth was greater than the value of The Shire!"

Frodo looks astonished.

They continue to climb up some very steep steps. Pippin slips on them. "Pippin!" Merry quickly steadied him.

They reach a junction with three doorways in front of them. Gandalf looks around him, puzzled, "I've no memory of this place."

The fellowship sits down to wait whilst Gandalf, smoking his pipe, tries to decide which way to go. The Hobbits briefly discuss being lost in a cave and food. Frodo and Gandalf have an interesting conversation about Gollum and Bilbo. Gimli silently grieves for his kin and their death. Legolas sits on a high stone, keeping watch, and peeks at the female pirate once in a while.

Elizabeth and Boromir sit next to Aragorn, who is between them. Elizabeth fixes her hair as it comes out of her ponytail.

"This has to be the worst day..." She mumbled as she made tiny braids.

Aragorn smokes his pipe and raises an eyebrow at her, "Really? What about the time you told me about the ceremony and you fainted?"

She looks at him in the corner of her eye and huffs, not liking the amusement in his tone, "Oh yeah, I swear it will be my luck if that happens again. Why am I always falling into the water? First, the dress, the ship, the river, and the bloody kraken. What's next? A cliff?"

"Calm down, my lady. It can't be that back..." Boromir said.

Elizabeth rolled her eyes, "Wear a corset and say that again... That is if you like pain."

Boromir raised both eyebrows and went back to his pipe. Aragorn chuckled, and Legolas smiled at the feisty lady.

Elizabeth finished putting her hair in a braided faux hawk style with her barbed wire woven through with tiny braids.

"Hm, I like it." Both men said, and she nodded her thanks.

Just in time to hear the gray wizard say, "Oh! It's that way!"

"He's remembered!" Merry jumps up.

Gandalf is at the entrance to one doorway. "No, but the air doesn't smell so foul down here. If in doubt, Meriadoc, always follow your nose." They all get up and follow Gandalf out. They come out of the passageway into a great cavern with many columns arising from the floor to the ceiling.

"Let me risk a little more light." Gandalf holds up his staff and shines its light on the cavern. "Behold the great realm and dwarf city of Dwarrowdelf."

A vast cavern is revealed, filled with ornate columns stretching as far as the eye can see. All of the Fellowship were amazed at the silver and gray city.

Elizabeth looks at the city with a feeling she hasn't felt in a while; in all her years, she has never seen anything like this. It brings back the feeling of finding new land; it rushes back to her. Remembering why she loves being a pirate.

Freedom...

To explore, have adventures, learn cultures, and doing as she pleases and never apologizing for it. She let out a small smile of wonder and awe.

They walk through the center of the magnificent city.

Suddenly, Gimli spots a room in front of them and runs towards it, "Oh!"

"Gimli!"

Gimli kneels in front of the tomb in the center of the room, "No, no.” Gimli bows his head, "No..."

The rest of the Fellowship follows him in. Gandalf walks up to the tomb and reads the Dwarven runes inscribed upon it, "Here lies Balin, son of Fundin, Lord of Moria." Gimli is distraught. "He is dead, then." Gandalf removes his hat. "It's as I feared."

Gimli cries. Gandalf notices a skeleton next to the tomb holding a large book. He passes his hat and staff to Pippin and picks up the book. Pages fall out of it. Gandalf blows off the dust.

Legolas to Aragorn and Elizabeth, "We must move on, we cannot linger."

Gandalf, reading from the book. "They have taken the Bridge and the second hall. We have barred the gates, but cannot hold them for long. The ground shakes. Drums," Pippin is walking backwards, looking around him. "Drums in the deep. We cannot get out." Everyone is looking around them nervously. "A shadow moves in the dark." Pippin glances behind him at a well on which a skeleton is sitting holding chains. "We cannot get out. They are coming."

Elizabeth saw the Hobbit look at the skeleton in curiosity and wanted to reach out. Her eyes widened, and she shouted, "Pippin, don't!" But she was too late.

It was as if in slow motion, Pippin reaches out a hand to touch the arrow in the skeleton's hand. Its head falls off and into the well, bouncing off the walls. Everyone turned to face Elizabeth, but her usual calm as as-stone-faced look showed fear for the first time. Gandalf turns around swiftly as the whole skeleton and the chains it holds fall into the well. It bounces down, and echoes are heard throughout the mines. Pippin grimaces. Everyone holds their breath, but nothing is heard.

Aragorn and Boromir breathe a sigh of relief. Elizabeth hit her forehead at the tense but relieved atmosphere.

Gandalf closes the book. "Fool of a Took!" He puts down the book and takes back his hat and staff. "Throw yourself in next time, and rid us of your stupidity!"

Pippin looks forlorn. As Gandalf turns away, a drum is heard. The drums get louder and faster. Everyone looks around.

Sam looks at Frodo's sword, "Frodo!"

Frodo unsheathed his sword, which was glowing blue. A screeching is heard.

"Orcs!"

Boromir runs as the arrows fly past his head, narrowly missing him, and stick into the door.

Aragorn to the Hobbits, "Get back! And stay close to Gandalf." Gandalf puts his arms around them.

Boromir shuts the doors quickly. "They have a cave troll!" Aragorn and Elizabeth come to help him barricade it.

"Of course they do, because why not!"

"Not the time, Liz."

Legolas throws axes at them to barricade the door. Gandalf draws his sword. The Hobbits copy. The doors are being battered. Gimli gets up on Balin's tomb and growls, "Agh! Let them come! There's one dwarf yet in Moria who still draws breath!" He was ready for bloodshed and to avenge his kin.

Aragorn, Elizabeth, and Legolas have their bows drawn. Boromir stands with his sword and shield at the ready. As the door is battered down, Legolas fires an arrow through a hole in it. An orc screeches. Aragorn and Elizabeth fire an arrow. The door is broken down, and Orcs run in. The Fellowship fights off the Orcs with arrows and swords. 

Sam suddenly pauses in the fight as a loud thumping noise echoes through the room as it's getting closer. Aragorn looks over to the door as a cave troll enters, a broken chain around his neck, bashing the walls with his fists. It roars.

Elizabeth beheaded one of the orcs and took a second to look at the cave troll, and with the driest voice she said, "Well, aren't you ugly."

"Elizabeth!"

Legolas fires an arrow into its chest as Elizabeth uses both of her swords to cut the Orcs surrounding them and the troll. It sees Sam and raises its club above his head to strike Sam. Sam dives through its legs, confusing it. It turns and follows him.

Aragorn and Boromir pull on the chain around its neck. "Pull!" The troll stumbles backwards and swings around to face them. Boromir is still holding the chain when the troll grabs hold of it and uses it to fling him against a wall.

An orc advances on the dazed Boromir. Aragorn notices this and quickly throws a knife into its neck. Boromir looks at him in surprise and relief. Aragorn nods.

The troll smashes its club into the tomb, causing Gimli to fall to the ground. Sam, Merry, and Pippin hide behind a pillar. The troll continues to swipe with its club, sending orcs flying and Gimli to the ground. Legolas stands in front of it, two arrows loaded in his bow, and fires, sending it stumbling. Gandalf fights the Orcs with a sword and a staff. Legolas from on a platform fights off some Orcs. The troll heads for him, swinging his chain at him. Legolas ducks and weaves to avoid it. The chain wraps itself around a pillar. Legolas stands on the chain, then nimbly walks up it to the troll's head. He stands on its shoulders and fires an arrow into its head. The troll screams and reaches for Legolas, who nimbly jumps down. The chain snaps, leaving just a collar.

Meanwhile, Sam fights the Orcs, hitting them on the head with his frying pan. "Think I'm getting the hang of this."

The troll finds Merry, Pippin, and Frodo. They look at it in horror. Merry and Pippin run to one side as the troll smashes his club down.

Aragorn shouts to Frodo amidst the fight, "Frodo!"

Frodo hides behind a pillar. The troll's face appears around the pillar, sniffing. Aragorn fights his way over to Frodo. The troll goes around to the other side of the pillar as Frodo sidles around it. As Frodo sidles around, once the troll is gone, he breathes a sigh of relief. Suddenly, the troll's face appears in front of him and roars. Frodo stumbles back into a corner. The troll reaches out and grabs him by the foot, dragging him along. He shouts for Aragorn. "Aragorn!" Frodo grabs hold of a pillar as he is dragged, "Aragorn!"

"Frodo!" Aragorn rushes over to him. But his partner was faster as she found a large stake.

The troll pulls Frodo off the ledge, and he drops to the floor. Elizabeth jumps down in front of the troll as it lifts its club to strike. She drives a stake into its chest. The troll screams. Pippin and Merry throw rocks at its head. The troll takes a swipe at Aragorn, who catches up to Elizabeth, flinging him across the room, where he falls, knocked out.

"Aragorn!" Elizabeth screamed, but the troll also flung her to a higher deck.

Frodo hurries over to him. The troll behind him pulls the stake from his chest and plunges it at Frodo. Frodo moves quickly, and the stake goes into the wall instead. He dodges the troll as it lunges for him again. He tries to run away, but the troll blocks his path. Frodo falls back against a wall. The troll plunges its stake into Frodo's chest. Frodo gasps. Gandalf turns around. Merry and Pippin look on in horror as Frodo gasps for breath. The troll snorts. Merry and Pippin look at each other and run towards the troll, swords at the ready. They jump onto its back and attack it. Gandalf looks on. Sam suddenly notices, "Frodo!"

Frodo gasps again.

"Frodo!" Sam fights his way over to Frodo, as do Gandalf and Boromir. Frodo collapses on the ground. Merry and Pippin continue to stab the troll, still on its back. It reaches up and grabs Merry, dangling him by his legs, and throws him to the ground as Gimli faces the troll, attacking it with his axe. The troll swipes him to the ground. Gandalf attacks it. Legolas stands in front of the troll and draws an arrow, and fires it directly into its mouth. The troll groans and stumbles. They watch it as it stumbles and falls to the ground, flinging Merry, who is still on its back, to the floor. Gandalf hurries over to Frodo.

Aragorn crawls over to Frodo as Sam watches on. "Oh no!" Aragorn turns Frodo over. He gasps and groans.

Sam can't believe he's alive and rushes over. Frodo holds his chest. Sam breathed a sigh of relief, "He's alive!" 

Gandalf breathes in relief.

Frodo sits up and looks around, "I'm alright. I'm not hurt."

"You should be dead. That spear would have skewered a wild boar." Elizabeth popped next to Aragorn as she looked at the spear. She has a shallow cut on her left eyebrow, bleeding a little.

"I think there's more to this Hobbit than meets the eye." Gandalf spots silver through the hobbit's shirt. Frodo parts his shirt to reveal the Mithril vest. Sam touches it.

Gimli looked on in awe, "Mithril! You are full of surprises, Master Baggins!"

Gandalf looks around as he hears screeches behind them and shadows approaching, "To the Bridge of Khazad-dûm!"

The Fellowship runs out of the tomb area, and Orcs swarm behind them. They glance around themselves to see thousands of orcs chasing them, climbing out of cracks in the floor, out of the roof, and down the great columns. Eventually, they are forced to stop, completely surrounded by Orcs on all sides. They hold their weapons out before them, waiting for a long fight.

Then, a great roar is heard from an archway, which glows red. The Orcs look around, worried. The roar is heard again, the Orcs screech in terror and scatter. Gimli grins but slowly loses it as a low roar is heard again, and the glowing red draws nearer.

"What is this new devilment?" Boromir asked.

"Nothing good, I suppose." Elizabeth rolled her eyes and wiped her forehead, thinking it was getting too hot in the cave, and filiches, forgetting the cut on her eyebrow and now had blood on her temple and hairline.

Gandalf closes his eyes and thinks hard, as if he is dreading telling what is there. As he opens his eyes, the red glow covers the entrance path of columns in front of them. "A Balrog, a demon of the ancient world. Its foe is beyond any of you… RUN!"

They run as fast as they can, leaving the cavern of columns. Boromir races head down some steps, but suddenly finds the steps end above a great chasm. He teeters on the edge, trying not to fall. Legolas runs up behind him and pulls him back away from the edge. Gandalf stumbles in last.

Aragorn looked at Gandalf, concerned, "Gandalf!"

"Lead them on, Aragorn. The Bridge is near!"

The narrow bridge gaps the two sides of the great chasm. A roar is heard behind them as the red fiery glow draws closer.

Gandalf pushes Aragorn away towards Elizabeth, "Do as I say!" Aragorn and Elizabeth look at him, confused. Gandalf walks past them. "Swords are of no more use here."

They turn to the right and run down the steps in front of them, which wind their way to the Bridge. Suddenly, they reach a break, a gap in the staircase, which is too wide to step over. Legolas nimbly jumps the gap and looks expectantly at the others. Gandalf looks puzzled. They hear a roar again behind them as the roof above starts to crumble.

Legolas beckons the older man to jump. "Gandalf!"

Gandalf jumps over the gap to join Legolas. Arrows fire out of the air, narrowly missing Boromir and the Hobbits. Legolas turns, aims one arrow, and shoots the orc, firing directly in the head.

"Merry! Pippin!" Boromir takes each Hobbit under each arm and jumps with them. As he does so, a greater chunk of the steps they were standing on falls away.

Legolas and Elizabeth continue to aim at the Orcs, firing at them, killing them.

"Sam!" Aragorn picks him up and throws him across the gap to Boromir, then looks at Gimli and Elizabeth.

Elizabeth fires another arrow and yells back at Aragorn, "A little busy at the moment!"

Aragorn raises an eyebrow at Gimli, ready to throw him.

Gimli holding up his hand, "Nobody tosses a dwarf!" He takes a mighty leap and lands teetering on the other side. Legolas reaches out to stop him from falling, grabbing his beard. "Mind the beard!" Aragorn and Elizabeth fire an arrow at the Orcs, as Legolas pulls Gimli to safety. Suddenly, more of the steps they have just left fall away. Elizabeth trips and starts to fall. Aragorn sees this and quickly throws Frodo to safety further up the steps and clings onto the stairs as a great portion of them fall into the chasm as Aragorn pulls Elizabeth up.

The gap now is too wide to jump. The rest of the Fellowship looks worried. Frodo wobbles on his feet.

Aragorn and Elizabeth are standing up, holding Frodo's back, "Steady! Hold on!"

The doorway entrance behind them glows red. A great roar comes from just behind it. The doorway and roof above crumble, and a great chunk of rock falls from the roof, into the staircase behind Aragorn, Elizabeth, and Frodo, creating another great gap. They are now isolated on the staircase. The column on which this part of the staircase is begins to crack, and the staircase sways.

Elizabeth, holding Frodo's clothing from behind, "Hang on!"

The staircase on which they are standing continues to sway from side to side. Everyone looks frightened.

"Lean forward!"

The staircase sways, then falls forward towards the rest of the Fellowship.

Legolas holds out his arms, "Come on!"

Aragorn, Elizabeth, and Frodo jump. Legolas grabs hold of Aragorn, Boromir of Frodo, Gandalf of Elizabeth. As they ran down the remaining staircase, looking back, they saw the part of the staircase they were standing on collapse completely, falling into the chasm.

They run into another room. The whole place is now in flames.

"Over the Bridge!" The flames grow higher. Gandalf waits for the others to pass. "Fly!"

They run past Gandalf, who turns towards the growing flames. From out of the midst of the flames, a great black, winged creature with a horned head appears. He roars at Gandalf, breathing fire from his mouth. It walks after them with great strides, as one by one, the Fellowship crosses the narrow bridge, Gandalf taking up the rear. Halfway across the bridge, he stops and turns to face the Balrog.

"You cannot pass!"

Frodo looked at Gandalf in horror. "Gandalf!"

The Balrog stretches its wings and draws itself up to full height in front of Gandalf.

"I am the Servant of the Secret Fire. Wielder of the Flame of Anor."

The Balrog reaches down and draws its sword in front of Gandalf, and holds it high above its head.

"The dark fire will not avail you." He holds out his staff in front of him, glowing white. "Flame of Udûn!"

The Balrog brings its sword down upon Gandalf, who protects himself with his staff, bringing a crash and flash of great light. It drops its sword and roars at Gandalf.

"Go back to the shadow!"

The Balrog puts out a cloven foot onto the bridge. He wields a great fiery whip above his head.

"You shall not pass!" He raises his sword and staff above his head and brings his staff down hard upon the Bridge.

The Balrog snorts at him, raises his whip, and takes another step forward. As he does so, the Bridge collapses and the Balrog falls into the chasm. Gandalf grunts and turns to walk away. As he does so, the tail end of the balrog's whip snakes up and around his ankle, dragging him down. He clings onto the edge of the bridge.

Frodo dashes towards him, but Boromir holds him back. "No!"

"Gandalf!" Frodo screams in desperation.

Gandalf tries to hold on by his fingertips. Looking at them for the last time. "Fly, you fools!" He falls into the chasm.

"NOOoooooooooooooo!" Frodo struggles against Boromir, who is holding him. Aragorn is looking on in disbelief.

Elizabeth was, too, but knew they had to get out. She turned to Boromir, "Go! I got him!"

"Aragorn!" Boromir takes Frodo and runs.

Aragorn pauses. Elizabeth grabs him, then turns and runs, dodging the arrows firing after them.

They run outside, leaving Moria. The Fellowship all collapse, heartbroken, the Hobbits are crying, Legolas looks forlorn, Boromir hugs an angry Gimli. Elizabeth stares at the horizon. Grief is strong in the air.

Aragorn wipes his sword. "Legolas! Get them up!"

"Give them a moment! For pity's sake!" Boromir said.

Elizabeth shakes her head and turns to the Gondor man, "By nightfall, these hills will be swarming with Orcs!"

"We must reach the woods of Lothlórien. Come, Boromir, Legolas, Gimli, get them up!" Aragorn reaches a tearful Sam and lifts him, "On your feet, Sam." He pats him on the shoulder. "Frodo?" He sees Frodo walking away in the distance. "Frodo!"

Frodo stops walking and turns to face Aragorn, tears rolling down his face. Elizabeth sees the look and runs up to the Hobbit. Frodo looks at her, wanting her to tell him this was a dream and that he's back in the Shire and Gandalf is alive.

"Oh, child..." Elizabeth pulls him into a hug and before whispering in his ear, "Come along. This is not the place to grieve."

Aragorn now leads the remaining Fellowship away from the rocky hills. He runs ahead across a stream and stops. Elizabeth quickly catches up to him and sees why he stops, but looking down at the woodland below, they finally let out a sigh of relief. They turn to one another and smile.

The woods of Lothlórien are finally within reach.

Chapter Text

The Fellowship ran swiftly across a meadow into the woods, hoping to make it before nightfall. They were successful and still have light for a few hours. Once in the woods, they walk quietly and carefully, looking around them. Yellow flowers, above is a roof of golden leaves, held up by silver pillars... the trunks of huge, gray trees. Untouched nature in all its beauty.

Legolas, taking in the surroundings as if returning home. He mused, "Ah, Lothlórien. The fairest of all the dwellings of my people. There are no trees like the trees of this land, for in autumn the leaves fall not, but turn to gold. Not till the spring comes and the new green opens do they fall, and then the boughs are laden with yellow flowers; and the floor of the wood is golden, and golden is the roof, and its pillars are of silver, for the bark of the trees is smooth and gray. So still our songs in Mirkwood say."

Elizabeth looked around and had an almost peaceful look on her beautiful face. One of the few things Middle-Earth has to offer is the genuine beauty of the forest. The soft wind teasing her hair, the sound of animals in their natural home, and the golden light from every corner make the forest look magnificent and regal.

She heard Gimli talk to the Hobbits of a great sorceress who lives in these woods. The only one who has powers and lives in these woods is the Lady of Light, Galadriel. Elizabeth stops. She felt a change in the air, and she looked around before quickly drawing her sword when two arrows appeared in front of her face.

The Fellowship is suddenly surrounded by drawn arrows on all sides by numerous armed elves. Legolas has drawn his own arrow in response. Aragorn holds his hand up in peace and closely watches Elizabeth.

A handsome elf stepped forward, and a marking on his armor shows he’s the captain of this group. "The dwarf breathes so loud, we could have shot him in the dark." Of course, an elf insults a dwarf.

Gimli growls at the pretty elf. Aragorn spoke softly to the sole female and made sure no one got hurt. "Elizabeth, please put Shuǐlóng down." Elizabeth blinked at Aragorn and slowly put her kanata away.

The Fellowship, now standing high up in the trees on a platform of the Mallorn branch, the sun has set; it is now evening. During daylight, Lothlórien is bath in gold, a picture of beauty and royalty. At night, it doesn’t change its beauty but shifts into silver as the moonlight and starlight guide the dwellers through the mysterious forest. Beautiful, mysterious but not cold, no, the forest still has the warmth as daylight.

The elf captain, now Haldir, greets everyone, starting with Legolas, "Mae govannen, Legolas Thranduilion."

Legolas greets back, "Govannas vîn gwennen le, Haldir o Lórien." 

Haldir nodded and looked at Aragorn, "A, Aragorn in Dúnedain istannen le ammen."

Aragorn bows, "Haldir..."

Haldir then turns his stare at Elizabeth, who is next to Aragorn, watching Haldir's every move. Haldir nodded to her, "Elizabeth..." 

They have met before, but Elizabeth is still wary of meeting newcomers.

"Haldir..." Elizabeth gave him a stiff nod of her own to the elf.

Gimli’s getting impatient with all the greetings and growls, "So much for the legendary courtesy of the Elves! Speak words we can also understand!"

Haldir hardened his glare at the dwarf for his rudeness and lack of manners  and drew out harshly, "We have not had dealings with the dwarves since the dark days."

Gimli takes that as a challenge, "And do you know what this Dwarf says to that? Ishkhaqwi ai durugnul !" Gimil rudely said and insulted those who had passed away.

Elizabeth did a facepalm and glared at the dwarf as Aragorn slapped his hand on Gimli's shoulder with a stern look upon his face, "That! Was not so courteous!" 

Aragorn taught Elizabeth many things about Middle-Earth, but there are at least a few customs Elizabeth already knew, and agreed with one of those is to respect the dead.

Haldir turned to look at Sam and Frodo. He stares at Frodo a few seconds more and gets an uneasy feeling, "You bring great evil with you..." he paused, "You can go no further!" Haldir proclaims to the group and walks towards his men. The Fellowship turns to look at Frodo, who has a sad expression. 

"This is going to be a long night," Elizabeth mumbled to herself as Aragorn grunted in agreement. 

It's been  at least a few hours since they arrived, and Aragorn has been trying to get Haldir to reconsider for the past ninety minutes, but no such luck yet. Everyone but Elizabeth and Legolas takes a seat on the platform while Elizabeth and Legolas stand next to each other listening to Aragorn talk avidly to Haldir: " Boe ammen veriad lîn. Andelu i ven !" Elizabeth nodded her head to Aragorn's statement.

Haldir replies back, whispering inaudibly so that Elizabeth can’t hear the words all that well. Elizabeth shakes her head. She peeks at Legolas because he can hear every word that Haldir says. Legolas is giving nothing away on his face, but his hands tell a different story, that he’s annoyed with the back and forth as well, and Haldir won’t listen.

" Merin le telim. " Aragorn pleads.

Haldir replies quietly that no one but Aragorn can hear him.

" Henio, aníron boe ammen i dulu lîn! " Aragorn tries once more.

"They're going in circles." Elizabeth sighed but took a seat at the edge, looking up where the moonlight was shining through, hitting her face just right, which almost showed her true age in her eyes. Listening to them is giving her a headache and almost reminds her of a time when she had to go back and forth about the navy, territories, money, and weapons. Fuck politics, especially pirate politics. Can't get one point across without someone killing one another. A huge pain in the ass that she gladly lets Captain Teague, Jack, Barbossa, and Tai Huang deal with that chaos. She only joins in when enough is enough. Which is too many times for her to count, but that was a long time ago.

Legolas can tell Elizabeth is lost in her thoughts, so he turns around and looks at Frodo, who glances at Sam. The Hobbits are still feeling deep grief for the loss of their friend. Gandalf has been part of Frodo’s life for as long as he can remember, and even before he was born, Gandalf had been connected to his family for a long time. It hurts. Sam looks away sadly, remembering the words Gandalf told him. Those words will stay true with Sam for as long as they are on this mission. Merry and Pippin look at Frodo and turn away; grief and death happen, but not so suddenly. They miss Gandalf, his tough love, his humor, and his tales.

Gimli turns to look at Aragorn and bows his head. His kin has spoken of Gandalf with gruff fondness. Gimili wasn’t close to Gandalf, but he respected him and his leadership. Khazad-dûm holds a great heaviness in his heart; he weeps for his kin who fought and died for their home.

"Aragorn!" Haldir speaks quietly to him.

Aragorn pleaded to the elvish captain, " Andelu i ven ."

Frodo again looks uncomfortable and alone. Boromir sees this and gives out whatever advice he can, "Gandalf's death was not in vain. Nor would he have you give up hope. You carry a heavy burden, Frodo.  Don't carry the weight of the dead."

Aragorn’s words must have finally gotten through to the captain, for Haldir walked up to Frodo, "Very well. Here we will stay awhile, and come to the city of Galadhrim on the morrow."

Elizabeth got up and stood next to Aragorn. With a raised eyebrow and a very faint smirk, she teased, "Took you long enough."

Aragorn sighed, "Now I understand why you hate politics."

Elizabeth snorted a little and gave Aragorn a look that practically says Doubt it .

Sam and Frodo sit on one of the many platforms in the trees at Cerin Amroth. Sam suddenly looks up and around with a puzzled expression. He rubs his eyes.

"What is it?" Frodo asked

"It's an odd thing, Mr. Frodo. It's sunlight and a bright day, right enough. I thought that Elves were all for the moon and stars. But this is more Elvish than anything I ever heard told of. I feel as if I was inside a song, if you take my meaning."

Haldir from behind them, “You feel the power of the Lady of Galadhrim. Would it please you to climb with me, up Cerin Amroth?” Frodo and Sam follow Haldir up a long series of platforms until they reach the pinnacle of the trees. Haldir shows the Hobbits the layout of Middle-Earth from where they stood, they are able to see for miles and miles to the north, the Forest of Mirkwood. From Orthanc to the west and to the east, Mordor and Barad-dur. This is a site they will never forget. Haldir leaves the high place. With a final look, Frodo and Sam follow Haldir back to the Fellowship.

As the dawn of morning rises, Haldir leads the Fellowship onto a hilltop. They look with wonderment at the vista spread before them. Several miles towards the South, a Large Hill rises out of the woods. Upon the hill rise many mighty Mallorn Trees, taller than any others ... Nestled high in the crown of the mallorns is a Beautiful City. It gleams in the low rays of the late afternoon ... green, gold, and silver. To the east of Caras Galadhon, the Woods of Lórien run down the pale gleam of Anduin, the great river. Beyond the River, the land appears flat and empty, formless and vague, until far away, it rises again like a dark, dreary wall. The Sun that lies on Lothlórien has no power to enlighten the shadows that lie beyond.

"Caras Galadon. The heart of Elvendom on earth. This is the city of Galadhrim, where dwell the Lord Celeborn and of Galadriel, Lady of Light." Haldir explained to the Fellowship.

A beautiful glow welcomes them to the Elven City.

As the sun set and the sky filled with stars as night approached, Elizabeth walked beside Aragorn to Celeborn's chamber, Caras Galadhon. The Fellowship steps onto a wide fleet filled with a soft light. The walls are green and silver, the roof gold, and in its midst is the trunk of the mighty Mallorn Tree, now tapering toward its crown.

Celeborn steps forward to greet the guests. His hair is long and silver, his face grave and beautiful, with no sign of age upon it. Next to him stands Galadriel, the Lady of the Elves. She has hair of deep gold and timeless, unsurpassed beauty.

Celeborn looks hard at Aragorn... and says, "The enemy knows you have entered here. What hope you had in secrecy is now gone. Nine there are here, yet ten there were set out from Rivendell. Tell me, where is Gandalf? For I much desire to speak with him. I can no longer see him from afar."

Frodo looks at Galadriel, standing silently beside Celeborn. With the memory of Gandalf’s fall still fresh in his mind, he accidentally projects the image to the Lady.

Galadriel softly aloud, "Gandalf the Grey did not pass the borders of this land. He has fallen into Shadow."

"He was taken by both Shadow and flame. A Balrog of Morgoth. For we went needlessly into the net of Moria." Legolas stated. 

The Fellowship bows their heads in sadness at the memory of Gandalf.

Celeborn appears surprised but listens to what Galadriel has to say.

“Needless were none of the deeds of Gandalf in life. We do not yet know his full purpose." Galadriel surveys the face of the Fellowship.

Gimli looks up as Galadriel addresses him, "Do not let the great emptiness of Khazad-dûm fill your heart, Gimli, son of Glóin. For the world has grown full of peril, and in all lands, love is now mingled with grief." 

Galadriel looks over the Fellowship again to meet her gaze with Boromir's gaze. Boromir is suddenly fearful and nervous. Galadriel’s eyes pierced Boromir. Boromir turns away from her. Galadriel’s gaze remains on him for a moment before turning to Celeborn.

Celeborn cooly asked, "What now becomes of this Fellowship? Without Gandalf, hope is lost."

Galadriel looks at Aragorn. "The quest stands upon the edge of a knife. Stray but a little and it will fail, to the ruin of all... Yet hope remains while the company is true." Galadriel’s eyes settle on Sam. "Do not let your hearts be troubled. Go now and rest, for you are weary with sorrow and much toil." Galadriel’s eyes turn to Frodo ... her voice fades. "Tonight you will sleep in peace."

Gimli, Legolas, Merry, Pippin, Frodo, and Sam are in a pavilion set among the trees near the fountain. They settle into their inner clothing and set their outer clothing aside for a better rest. They lie on soft couches and blankets as Elves leave food, water, and wine for them. Mournful singing drifts down from the trees above.

“A lament for Gandalf…” Legolas mourns as he listens to the song.

“What do they say about him?” Merry asked quietly.

“I have not the heart to tell you. For me, the grief is still too near.” Legolas said to the Hobbit, old eyes filled with sorrow.

Elizabeth watched from the side, observing the Hobbits as they talked about Gandalf’s fireworks and his playfulnes, Gimli smoking in silence thinking about Gandalf and Khazad-dûm, Legolas walking around trying to fully understand his grief for his fallen friend, and the two men from Gondor, hoping to see the White City, Minas Tirth, shine brighter than ever before. But Elizabeth can see Aragorn’s disquiet, sadness for his home, his country.

Elizabeth sighed and looked away. She knew how to deal with her grief and knew not everyone was going to make it to the finish line and see the peace and freedom they fought so hard for, but she never expected Gandalf, their leader, to be the first to fall; all things happen for a reason.

Once everyone falls asleep, Elizabeth is wide awake in her nest of blackets, and for memories will not leave her tonight. She gets up and walks towards the edge of the platform. Elizabeth sits alone with only the first layer of clothing on, a soft, long-sleeve shirt and leggings, and one of her many guns. But this one is a special gun. It's true master is one Captain Jack Sparrow. Before she left, he handed the gun to her for safekeeping and to hold on to and remember an important person in their life. This gun was made by Will Turner, and it's been in good care for the last hundred years or so by both Jack and Elizabeth.

She heard his footsteps before he sat next to her. “May I ask why you are still awake?” Aragorn asked.

“Memories of old…”

“Tell me, please.”

“The last time I felt this type of grief was a long time ago, but at the same time, it's not as strong as I thought.” Elizabeth huffed, “Or maybe I have truly forgotten how to feel… I was once young and naive, but I wanted more than I could understand. I fought for it, but because of that, I lost more, and when I lost him, nothing could fill the void in my heart and soul. Then I stopped…” Aragorn sat next to her, listening and, for the first time, watching her cry and sob in pain. “I stop caring. I stop believing. I stopped living, and now it is all coming back. What does that mean?” She clings to the gun as if it's her only lifeline. She has spent many years pushing her emotions back ever since she lost her child and Will.

“...I want to know.”

Aragorn pulled Elizabeth into his arms to let her cry it out, for it seems she has been in pain and holding it in for such a long time. After a while, Elizabeth calmed down and went back to her normal self, or as normal as it was for her. The heir of Gondor ran a hand down his partner's hair as she slowed down her breathing. To others, it looks like she fell asleep on Aragorn’s shoulder, but to those who know her, she’s meditating. A technique she learned back in her world from her ‘people’ that she worked with before. The technique is called Journey, which pulls her into a state to relax her mind when her emotions get too wild for her. It helps with pressure and exhaustion. Elizabeth mostly pictures herself on the Black Pearl with Will and their kids, or sometimes she’s alone in a different place or with Aragorn and the Rangers in the Wild North, and most recently, she sees a certain Elf Prince who just waits with his hand out, ready for her to take it.

Aragorn breaks the silence, “At least you didn't go to the extreme, unlike last time.”

Elizabeth huffed, “I did apologize for that. Not my fault, you all weren't used to my guns, and here I thought you were.”

“Welcome back to the living. Water, air, earth, or fire?”

“A mix of water and fire.”

Elizabeth and Aragorn now have a system whenever one of them needs to sleep or meditate, it's been working for some time now. They use the elements to get an idea of what the other was thinking about. They made this system about a year ago when Elizabeth shot herself with one of her many guns. She told Aragorn some details about her life, and vice versa, and so they are closer than ever.

“Thank you.”

“You would do the same for me.”