Amee's Quest

[Lady Ashley]

Hi guys...my turn at fan fic. This is the only one I ever wrote and will ever write. Hope y'all like it. I sure did. Ok, all the verses except the last are from Ecclesiastes 3 and the last is II Corinthians 12: 9. (as always, this thread will be for the fic, just post any replies in a second thread, k...thanks.)

PROLOGUE

To everything there is a season. A time for every purpose under heaven....

The words of the ancient Hebrew text visited the dreams of the young girl. Her long brown hair was spread across her pillow. Moonlight from the window shown through, wrapping the girl in a pale white halo.

A time to be born, and a time to die...

The girl stirred and turned over, warm blankets covering her from cap-a-pie. The cool September air did not penetrate the solid house and the blankets to disturb the girl.

A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up...

The words floated around her like the whisperings of angels. Outside, the fall leaves rustled in the wind, a few red and yellow ones falling to the earth. She stretched in her sleep. She was not strong, and quite small, but hardy.

A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance...

The girl smiled in her dream, hearing the words in her soul, yet not in her brain. She did not know what the next day would bring, though a day would come soon when she would know things many did not, or could ever percieve.

A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak...A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace.

Young Amee Boen turned again her bed, still unaware of the secret whisperings, though her spirit would remember them. She was fast asleep.

My grace is sufficiant for thee: My strength is made perfect in weakness...

[Lady Ashley]

July 19, 20---no, 1419

Ah, the most interesting of experiences! Today, I, Amee Boen, am no longer in my native country. In fact, everything here is nearly foreign. Quite! I didn’t even MEAN to come here, I just came. Can you guess where I am? No? I’m in the Shire!!! I’ve been here three days.

I'm Amee Boen, by the way. I'm 16 and resident of the United States of America. I need to remember this in case I should forget.

Don’t ask me how, because I truly don’t know. I was at school, walking through the gym’s swimming pool, when I fell in. Did I land in the pool? No! I handed in a river! More importantly, one called The Water! I found myself nearly drowning, and swam for shore. I didn’t realize it was dirt until I floundered onto the bank like a caught fish.

I was soaked, and confused. "Where the heck am I?," I moaned. I looked about and saw trees, and grass, nodding flowers and the river. I thought I’d passed out or something. And then I did pass out! The next thing I knew what that someone was poking me. I groaned and turned my head. Someone WAS! Little children were poking me with a stick and giggling. But they stopped when I woke up. Then I they turned tail and ran, screaming, "Mr. Sam! Mr. Sam!" I wondered who these kids were. They looked…tiny. And they wore odd clothes.

However, I didn’t care. I got up, soaked to the skin, but the sun was warm. My tennis shoes were the most soaked. I decided to walk around figure out just where I was. So I started to walk. And walk. As I walked I found the most the interesting thing: There was a large hill nearby, and had what looked like holes, or rather doors in it! A large tree stood in the midst of a field before one particularly fine door. It looked familiar to me.

That’s when I heard the shouting. I looked and saw, to my shock, a large fellow running toward me with those kids. I was not in the mood to be chased or interrogated (who would be in they fell into an indoor pool and landed in a river?), so I ran. I indeed ran for that nice, giant tree in the field and climbed it. ‘Twas good that it had so many climbable branches, for I’m not a tree-climber. So I ran up the tree, amid the fall coloured leaves.

I was lucky for the people chasing me arrived at the tree just I got to safety. "Excuse me, miss?," said the man. "I don’t want to hurt you, but whatever are you doing here?"

I didn’t answer. "Miss? Please come down. We aren’t going to hurt you! These kids just told me there was a Big Person in The Water. We just want to know why you are here."

Big Person? The Water? What in the world!? And this fellow, oddly, sounded familiar. Not as in I had met him before, but because he sounded…familiar. However, he sounded British. I wasn’t in England, was I? I dared to take a peek through the tree branches.

This fellow had curly yellow hair and odd clothes. The clothes looked like he had just come from a garden. They had dirt and bits of grass all over them. He wore breeches, a shirt and vest. But the feet were the oddest part. This fellow wore no shoes. Nor did the little children behind him. There was simply hair on their feet. And they seemed…small. For a fleeting moment, I had an idea of what they were. But I didn't know for sure. "Who are you?," I asked.

"I am Samwise Gamgee."

I nearly fell from the tree branch. Sam Gamgee! Now the cries of "Mr. Sam!" made sense. I went into a panic. The Shire! That was where I was! The Water, The Hill, the Party Tree was the tree I climbed. And that certainly was Master Samwise Gamgee, a Hobbit. And those children were Hobbits. I nearly fainted.

I realized I was in Middle-Earth. The fact hit me like lightning.

Goodness, I’ll write later; I’m being called to dinner. I’ll have to decline supper later. Afternoon Tea was good, though. I'm starting to get fat already! I'll be back later.

[Gatsby]

neat! i like the humourous approuch to it ashley... i stories like this... when it could be real *sigh*
out
gatsby

[Lady Ashley]

Later on July 19...

Dinner was delicious. Mr. Baggins is a good cook. I had to decline supper afterwards. I said I was too full, but thank you anyway. He is a nice Hobbit.

But where was I? Oh yes...Sam.

Well, I did fall out of the tree after all. I landed right at Sam's feet. They were dirty from the garden. Anyway, I got up, was questioned and I told him I was a long ways from home, and also told him my name. Sam, he has a really good heart! He took pity on me and said he knew a place I might stay, but not for long. "Master Frodo is moving to Buckland soon," he said. I nearly swallowed my tonsils. Stay with Frodo Baggins! Then...oh no. This was when he was leaving! I didn't say anything however.

"He wouldn't mind?"

Sam laughed. "Not at all! Master Frodo wouldn't turn out someone far from home!"

"But I'm...a Big Person."

"Pah! He's met Elves!" But he looked rather uncomfortable then. I knew it was because he was going to see the Elves too. But he laughed again, shooed off the children (who were frightened of me, so were happy to ablige) and Sam led me toward "Bag End, where Mr. Frodo lives." It was indeed right in The Hill. And Mr. Frodo Baggins indeed did not mind. He only said that he didn't know what he would be with me, as he was leaving on his birthday, September 22.

I don't know what to do! I would like so much to go with them, but it would be terribly dangerous...especially since I KNOW what's to happen! I've read the books many times and I can't just let them go without me. If I went, I could possibly keep them out of trouble, like in Bree! But would that hurt the course of the story?

But, anyway...the moving preparations are under way. He's of course sold Bag End (he seems terribly upset about this) and keeps touching a wall or stick of furniture. While he was going through some papers, he found this diary and gave it to me. It's, what else?, bound with red leather. A gold pen is attached to it. I thanked him.

Frodo really is a good fellow. He really does seem quite young for 50. Yet he is so sad. I know it's because of of the Ring, but I won't ever let on I know about it. I would be asked too many questions that I don't want to lie about. So I shall keep my mouth shut about the Ring and how he's not really going to Buckland for long. But I want to go with him!

And Merry and Pippin are so nice! They don't mind at all that a Big Person is around. In fact, I think they enjoy my company. Pippin does like to eat and can be mischievious! They are most interested in my clothes. "Big shoes! And girls at your homeland wear trousers?," asked Merry. I told him we did. They were amused.

I'm yawning now. Must go to bed. I'm sleeping on two hobbit-beds put together, since I'm at nearly at least one and a half feet taller than Mr. Frodo, me at 5 foot.

July 22, 1419

More days in The Shire! Played chess and went on a walk with Mr. Frodo. (No other Hobbit saw me, though...I don't want to cause another stir!)

Tea was wonderful. I've never had afternoon tea before coming here. Excellent custom!

August 1

Poor Frodo, I can't help thinking about his plight. Who wouldn't? I still want to go with him. But would he let me? But who could I stay with if I didn't?

I can't help imagining what the Ring looks like. STOP! I'm not going to go there.

Aug. 3

Helped Sam in the garden. Spied on some hobbits at The Water. I wish I could go into Hobbiton.

Aug. 10

Ooh, nearly met the Sacksville-Bagginses! Eek! They remind me of my uncle Bill and Aunt Sally.

Aug. 16

The Shire is so beautiful...it makes me sad to think about what will happen to it!

But what will happen to ME?? I miss Mom and Dad. When will I go home? Yet adventure calls...if I don't go home, why not see everything while I'm here?

I must think of some excuse to with Frodo and Sam. Need to go to Bree? Travel to Beorn's woods to see family? Naw...MUST THINK OF SOMETHING.

Must stop thinking about Ringwraiths! That's the only bad part of the bargain...not to mention Orcs and war and the Eye...I'm going to go read something to get my mind off this situation for now.

[Lady Ashley]

Sept 20, 1419

Early morning, just now dawn. I slept soundly. I just hope I can continue that. I am most determined to go with Frodo and Co. And maybe even the Company! But it does seem more frightening now that it's all real.

I'm sure you're thinking, "And you want to go with them, Amee?" Yes, I know. I'm not very muscular, you know. I'm not strong. Yet if I go with them, it would mean fighting with swords, killings, facing those horrible monstrous things from the Black Land! I smply don't know if I can. I might drop dead from simply walking so far.

But the Hobbits are so nice, and they need a guide. I won't tell them all I know, of course. Perhaps they would simply think I've traveled so far that I know much of the land and history. So, whatever it may cost me, I am going to go with them.

Oh! two carts just left for Buckland with Frodo's furniture. Frodo is worried about Gandalf. He keeps looking out the door with a nervous look on his face. Pippin is hard at work to keep him cheery. They, of course, are staying here too, as well as Fred Bolger and Folco Boffin. They don't seem to mind me at all. Said I am "quite like a Hobbit, except bigger!" That made me laugh. They love to tell me about their relatives of years ago. I swear, they really DO like talking about them. They just keep going on and on about it all. (I bet they like me for listening ear.)

Frodo just doesn't know what to do with me. "Yet a young lady shouldn't be by herself," he said, referring to my age--17. (Just had my birthday! They gave me little trinkets like a handkerchief and a scarf and little pariphinalia.)

Later...

Breakfast was wonderful, as usual! Lots of eggs and bacon and pancakes, as well as toast and milk and juice, and ham and bread with jam and sausage and other things. I hope I can walk all of this off.

I'm helping with the packing.

Later again...

Dinner was excellent. Frodo and the other Hobbits are having a light supper now. I'm going to talk to Mr. Frodo about me going to Buckland.

Later once more...

Well, it's settled! I, Amee Boen, am traveling with Frodo, Sam and Pippin to Buckland! I said to Frodo, "Mr. Frodo, I do not have a place to stay. I don't have any other friends around here. Please, let me go with you! What is one more person on the road? And you never know what odd things can be creeping about. I hear that there are strange things going on in the world. Besides, I am going on to Bree, so why couldn't I travel as far as Buckland with you?"

Then he got that look again, the one that said he knew something and didn't want to tell. I knew he was thinking he was going that way himself and was probably wondering how he could keep me from knowing that. Then he looked at me kindly, with a knowing eye. "Miss Amee, you have a good heart. You have certainly helped out a lot here. So, why not? It would be more interresting company!" He laughed and so did I. "Hurrah!," said Merry and Pippin. Frodo said he would have someone sew me a cloak, as it's fall outside.

Sept 21, 1419

Frodo is really anxious. He keeps checking the window for signs of the Wizard. I asked him about it and he said he was looking for an old friend coming to see him off. That was the truth!

Sept 22, 1419

Frodo's birthday! We're only expecting a few tonight for supper, just the six of us. Frodo seems depressed. I and the other are determined to keep his spirits up.

Later...

The little birthday-feast was lovely! I even had some of the wine. Frodo said, "Whatever happens to the rest of my stuff, when the S.-B.s get their claws on it, at any rate I have found a good home for this!" Then he finished off his glass of the old wine. Then we continued, singing and laughing and all that. Tomorrow we leave.

And I have a cloak! It's actually a large wool blanket hemmed by Rosie Cottom, Sam's girl friend. He blushes whenever anything mentions her name! The cloak is warm. I've never worn a cloak like this, and it's very nice.

I can't shake the aweful feeling in my stomach. Black Riders in the Shire!

[Lady Melody]

Pretty cool, I like it.

[Tar-Ancalimë]

oooh Ash :cuddles: wonderful!! i mean it too!!!

post more!!!!!!! ;)

[Nessa the Dancer]

Yes, it is excellent!!
Keep going.

[Gatsby]

it's such a fun story!
out
gatsby

[Pil]

I've pasted this into word so that i can read it offline...the only way i am able to read all the stories here...and it's saved under the title..."The one that could be real"...it pretty much sums it up...this is nicely written so that we can really believe it. :thumbs: and keep it up mate! :)

[Lady Ashley]

Sept 24, 1419

Oh, gosh, I don't know what to tell you, it's so aweful! We're gone from Hobbiton. We left on the 23rd. We've been walking a long ways and I get tired quickly. But my heart is still pounding, even now! Because...I saw a Black Rider.

It was just like in the book. A big, scary rider in black, upon a black horse. The Nazgul was smelling. Looking for the Ring.

I was terrified. I hid on the side of the road with Sam and Pippin when it came past. I was holding my breath. I never expected it all. The fear. Like a cold dagger at your throat. Like death walking past. Perhaps it was.

I can't sleep. I really can't. I keep seeing that Nazgul. And hearing that ominous sniffing. I remember once when there was a bad storm coming through my town. Tere was tornado and the black clouds just towered in the sky. I get that same feeling of fear of my stomach and I panic, deep inside. I know he's not after me, but he's after my friend. I hate it when my friends are in trouble.

I comforted Frodo when it was gone because he seemed awefully shaken up. Helping him slightly helped me.

The second encounter was worse. But luckily Gildor and the other Elves frightened it off and we were safe. I was glad. Now it's late, and the stars out and Frodo and Gildor are still speaking. And Sam is awake, of course. I'm behind a tree. I still get a ball of fear in my stomach about that Nazgul. You have never experienced fear until you've seen---heard!---those things from Mordor. Mordor seems a lot more scary. And all these happenings are exactly how I first imagined it all, before the movie. But the movie has nothing on this.

This is real. That's what makes it frightening, knowing that the books have somehow come alive and I'm in the thick of the story, where it's possible that I could get hurt! Suffer! My feet are blistered from walking so long (thank goodness I still have my tennis shoes!). But that's nothing compared to mental torture.

But what shall I do when we get to Weathertop? and Moria? and lands beyond? Will I cower in fear like I did on the road? Sam had to pat my arm in to make me feel better. But I'm going to try and be brave for the Hobbits. I'm going to protect them. They seem so much like children to me, that that is what I naturally want to do. I'm truly very fearful. But I prayed and I know God will get me through this.

I feel lots better now. Did I tell you about the Elves? They're so...pretty. Not handsome, for that word in used for Men, but Elves are different. Fair and wise. Pretty is a better word. Or beautiful. Just imagine what we'll see at Rivendell! Yes, that's right. I am going to go onto Rivendell with the Hobbits. I'm not going to simply abandon them! Fear or no fear. God will help me.

t 25, 1419 - Buckland

At long last we have reached Buckland! I can't tell you how I'm glad to be here. I just got out of my shower and am waiting for the Hobbits. I wanted to help Merry with getting supper ready, but he insisted that I don't lift a finger.

But we are here! We've had quite an exciting time traveling through the rest of the woods and to Farmer Maggot's house. We had a regular feast! I can smell the mushrooms Mrs. Maggot gave Frodo. (I'll try one.) One would think that the farmer wouldv'e been terribly suspicious about a Big Person traveling with the Hobbits, but of course he's suddenly used to strange folk traveling by. Like that Black Rider. When he mentioned him, I still got a ball of fear in my stomach.

After supper, Farmer Maggot took us in his wagon and drove to Bucklebury Ferry, where we met Merry. The poor Hobbits were afraid it was a Rider, but I assured them it couldn't be. They were relieved that I was right.

However, we are nicely settled in Frodo's new house. Now this evening will determine the course of the future, when the consiracy will be unmasked.

Later...

Supper is done with (I've began to enjoy muchrooms now) and as I was saying, the conspiracy has been revealed! You know how it went, Merry and Pippin and Sam confessed to knowing about the Ring all along, and the former two said they were going with Sam and Frodo.

Yet they all looked back at me in the middle of the conversation, for I had been quietly listening in the back, while they were sitting by the fire. I had a little smile on my face. "Oh, do go on! I'm enjoying this quite a bit."

Frodo looked worried. "I am afraid to say too much."

I laughed. "Nothing that I don't already know about! I'm afraid I know about the Ring, sir." I sobered. "In fact, I almost wish I didn't. But I know where you're headed and what you intend to do."

"How do you know, Miss Amee?," asked Sam suspiciously. Good old Sam.

"I'm afraid I can't tell, but I assure you that I have nothing but the most honest intensions! I will not tell another soul." There was a pause then Frodo smiled. He knew I wouldn't. He trusted me. Then the conversation went on as it always had.

Later Sam asked me if I knew anything about the Black Riders, but I said I had heard rumors about them. I didn't lie, nor did I tell the whole truth. It was satisfactory.

The Old Forest tomorrow! I'm going to carry a fire-poker with me, in case I need it to use against barrow-wights and anything else.

Sept 29, 1419 - Bree

Such a long few days! The adventure was different than I had hoped it would be. The Old Forest truly was old, and scary. I was the one who had to keep my poor friends from getting terribly afraid. But I was so upset that I didn't keep the poor Hobbits from being caught by Old Man Willow, but I did help find Master Bombadil.

Master Bombadil was so funny! And cheery! He had all those stories to tell, so I didn't get to tell you, Diary, about everything. But I did get to talk to him a bit. He pulled me aside before we left. "You keep those Hobbits out of trouble, young lady!," he said. "I am glad you came with them." He gave me a wink that I did not understand. It's as if he knew something about me. Perhaps so. I still wonder. Lady Goldberry is indeed very lovely.

Then came the Barrow-wights, in which I didn't help any at all, except to take a swing with my fire-poker at a wight, but we still got caught. I tried to keep us all from over-sleeping on the Downs, but to to no avail. I truly don't know how I can keep those Hobbits out of trouble! I try my hardest, but I can't! What use am I?

But one good thing came that I have a sword! Gotten from the Barrow-wights, just like the Hobbits. The wights got my clothes, though. Not my tennis shoes, nor you. But I got a lovely dress of Westernesse. It's dirty now. Picture me! I'm wearing an old blanket, a dress and tennis shoes! The sword is the right size. Now I have something to protect myself and the Hobbits with. And

[Tar-Ancalimë]

lol this is great... i really like it Ash... hee hee and she knows everything that they're gonna do... its kinda funny in a way lol ;)

[Bess the Bard]

I like the image of Aimee wearing a mussed gown, carrying a sword and wearing tennis shoes. ;)
But a worthy champion for the hobbits. :knight:

Keep up the good work!

[Lady Ashley]

Thanks, all! I felt humor was a slight must. After all, I can't have Amee running about in bare feet!

Just wait till you see the further chapters...heh heh btw, it's going to stop after Boromir dies, so I won't let anything that shouldn't be spoilt come out before TT. *grin*

[Lady Ashley]

Later on Sept. 29...

V. late. I'm writing by a tiny candle in here. The Hobbits are asleep and Lord Aragorn is staring at the fire. He may be watching me, but that doesn't bother me.

Oh, I'm sorry, I had to leave you quite suddenly, for Frodo got into that trouble with the song and the Ring. I was sitting writing to you in the Pony's common room. I tried to get him to get down, but I did not want to draw attension to myself. See how useless I am? Never mind that, more importantly, I have spoken with Lord Aragorn, or as he is known at the moment, Strider. After he left the common room, before the Hobbits came to the parlor. I forgot he was there, and was quite surprised when he jumped up with his sword. He looked just as I imagined him.

"Who are you and what business have you with the Hobbits?," he demanded.

I recovered quickly. "I could ask you the same question, Master Ar--Strider. But I know that you have honest interest in them. So do I. As for my name, I am Amee of...Boen. I am here to help the Hobbits get where they need to be."

His eyesbrows knitted when I almost said his true name, Aragorn. He was v. susicious now. "And that business would be...?"

"The same as yours. A certain secret that Mr. Underhill carries with him needs more protection. I am that." His look told me that he thought I was joking, or mad, or untrustworthy. Maybe all three! I gave him a look too, a definant and, hopefully, brave look. He looked hard at me. "Perhaps so, Amee of Boen. Where did you learn your information?"

I was in luck, for the Hobbits came in just then and our conversation was cut short. You know the rest, how he and the Hobbits and Barliman the barkeep made introductions and such. Now it is awefully late and I don't want to be awake when the Black Riders raid.

Oct. 4, 1419 - The Wild

It took an aweful lot of persuading---and testimony on Frodo's part--but I am on the way to Rivendell with my little friends and Strider. He finally agreed, but he didn't want any complaining out me, like a normal young girl would. He's still wary around me. I accidently called him "Sire". But I couldn't help it! He IS, or will be, a king!

Drat these bugs. I hate the Midewater Marshes. So annoying. My shoes are filthy like they've never been before. But I'm not complaining! I'm being as cheerful as I can. While we were resting a moment today, I asked Aragorn to teach me a bit of swordplay. He was reluctant, but taught me a bit. He seems to understand we may need all the good swordmanship we can find.

I miss Mom and Dad. What do you suppose they thought happened to me? I almost wish I could go home, but I'm careful not say that out loud.

Oct. 7, 1419

Did I ever need that training! I'm beginning to think I'm losing my mind. But I think I've earned a little bit of Lord Aragorn's respect, bcecause I did a rather heroic, yet perhaps foolish, thing: I attacked a Ringwraith!

Yesterday we reached Weathertop (very nice, if run-down place, you can see everywhere) and it was dark. Aragorn had finished the lay of Luthien and Beren. (V. nice story! I could almost see a tear in Aragorn's eye and I knew he was thinking of Arwen.)

But then came the Ringwraiths over the rise. Frodo was terribly brave. I was hiding with Aragorn and then we attacked as soon as Frodo struck the Witch-King. (Aweful shrieks! They make your blood run cold.) I had my sword in hand. You would not believe me! Running in dress and tennis shoes against those wraiths! Just before I made my attack, I shouted, "For God and Middle-Earth!" I went off with a shriek, slashing at those blasted wraiths. Aragorn had flaming wood in hand. I was out of my mind to go straight for a wraith myself, but I did! I was SO scared, but I wanted to protect my friends.

In the end they ran away, poor Frodo is now in terrible plain. I received a hard blow to my shoulder from a Nazgul's hand swatting at me as he would a fly, but I stood my ground until they ran! I was quite tired afterwards, but Aragorn, just before we left this morning, said, "'Twas brave of you, child. I expected you to cower in fear, but you surprised me." To my amazement, he smiled and patted my shoulder! I was fearful, but I prayed to God to give me courage and he did.

Poor Frodo. I can't help him at all. The others are so afraid that he'll die, but I know he won't. I say, "Don't worry! He'll be fine!" Aragorn thinks that I'm only trying to be cheerful. How little they know!

Must go take my nightly watch with Merry. I think I'll keep you in my pack until we reach Rivendell. Too tired each night. But I'm getting tougher, and stronger too. Also VERY thinner.

[Tar-Ancalimë]

this is really excellent, Ash! i love it :cuddles:

ha ha so funny. she calls him sire! lol a wonder he isnt even more suspicious ;)

[Lady Ashley]

ack, he's got too many problems to be more suspicious...after all, he's trying to find a way thru the Wild, with Ringwraiths after 'em...Amee can't help calling him that...a slip o' the tongue. lol

[Pil]

I agree...this is a lovely concept...lots of humour...lol...tennis shoes...hope the flight to the ford goes ok for her... :thumbs: :)

(p.s. are you going by the book with glorfindel...or will you go with arwen? :huh: )

[Lady Ashley]

you'll see....heh heh but if one looks thru the book you'll find how I've paid attension to the real thing....besides, I hate Arwen...

[Pil]

:thumbs: Nice to know! :cuddles:

[Lady Melody]

Which version of Arwen? Liv Tyler or the book's? I love elves in the book, and also Gandalf (He's like a Grandfather you know ^_^) and oh... I just love 'em all...

[Lady Ashley]

I hate movie-Arwen.

Oct. 21, 1418

Rivendell, a lovely place! My favorite spot is already the gardens...or Master Bilbo's sitting-room! He IS such a nice Hobbit, so friendly, though he does tend to fall asleep in the middle of a story! The halls are so clean and airy, with plants everywhere and the very walls seem to breathe peace…No wonder Bilbo said it was a place of rest and relaxation! The Elves are so...pretty, as I've said before. Very wise. After all, they’ve lived so long!

Anyway, yes, we're here at Rivendell at last. I swear I didn’t think we’d make it. I kept telling myself that we would, but have you ever had to sit there and watch a dear little friend in pain? It’s awful! I know he’ll be alright, but sometimes I wonder as much as the others. The journey from Weathertop was dreadful. Rain, mud, long walking, Frodo in pain…Dreadful. I can’t imagine what the rest of the Quest be like?

Later…

Yet that was not the worst of it! The chase of the Nazgul! We had been traveling with Master Glorfindel of course, and came to the last leg of the journey: crossing the flat mile of space on the west side of the Ford. Frodo was on Asfaloth when the Nazgul appeared! Glorfindel urged Frodo on, but he would not go. Now, what I am about to tell you is true! I don’t know if somehow in the future Peter Jackson will get a hold of this diary, but here it is: I rode with Frodo across the Ford! ‘Twas NOT fun. It was TERRIFYING. Imagine all your worst nightmares chasing you, that was what it was like! I jumped on Asfaloth just before Master Glor. called "Noro lim, Asfaloth, noro lim!" We took off on Master Glor’s horse. That horse is fast! Everything was a blurr! And I'm NOT an expert on riding horses either. I had to hang on for dear life!

I kept tight on Frodo, my knees dug into Asfaloth’s side. " Noro lim," I kept saying in Elvish, urging him on. Time was pressing and poor Frodo was still hurt. It was a great race, but Asfaloth out-ran those stupid Nazgul! Unfortunately, there were Nazgul ahead! But we surged past them and into the Loudwater. Those Ringwraiths were even more hideous than ever. Poor Frodo was scared out of hit wits, but I whispered encouragments to him. "We are almost to Elrond’s house! Don’t give up, Frodo!" I breathed a prayer of deliverance.

We had just crossed the Ford and then came the war of words btween Frodo and the Nazgul. Frodo was struggling so hard at the end, that I yelled, "Go away you stupid things! Begone you devils!! You idiotic Nazgul look like the fathers of Orcs and smell ten times as bad! Take his advice and go back to Mordor, you, you LOVERS OF ORCS!!" I waved my sword at them, though that was fruitless to scare them.

I timed it as best I could. I knew Lord Elrond would be sending the flood down an moment and wanted to make those Nazgul as mad as I could. It worked, for they were shrieking like madmen. Then of course, it could have been the fact that Aragorn, Glorfindel (glowing very brightly) and the Hobbits were rushing them on the other side, and that the flood was coming! The Riders rushed into the foaming water madly. And poor Frodo fainted then…The boys rushed over once the flood was gone and we hurried Frodo into Rivendell, more Elves coming down from the Homely House. Aragorn was once more amazed at my "boldness as to challenge the Riders with words". Yet both he and Glorfindel gave me odd looks. I then knew I had let it slip I knew what those things were truly called.

Now we’re at Rivendell and it is nice. So peaceful, un-shadowed. You would not think that Middle-Earth was threatened with evil.

Only three more days until Frodo wakes up.

Oct. 22, 1419

Had breakfast with Merry and Pippin. (Sam is with Frodo of course!) They’re very worried. I had to reassure them again that Frodo would be alright. Merry asked, "How do you always seem to know?" It was not an accusing tone, just curious.

I didn’t show any discomfort. "I don’t know," I answered. "I like to be optimistic about things. Besides, Frodo is very strong." The seemed satisfied by my dodging of the question answer.

Then I met Arwen! She is ever so nice! So pretty and kind! She found me wondering lost in the halls of the Last Homely House. "Are you the Lady Amee?," she inquired.

I gulped and nodded, giving my best curtsy. (And in my ragged filthy dress!) She looked as I'd always imagined her. "I am Arwen, called Undomiel which is Evenstar," she said. "I am Lord Elrond’s daughter."

"It is an honor to meet you, ma’am," I replied. "I have heard much about you."

She laughed a high, clear laugh. "And I have heard much of you! Estel has many compliments about you." I saw her ears turn pink upon mentioning Lord Aragorn, her Estel. I smiled. "But come now, Lady Amee! I have my seamstress waiting to measure you for new gowns." I blushed, for I had no other clothes than my dirty dress, but she smiled and I felt not so embarrassed. She beckoned me to follow her and we went to her rooms. There indeed an Elven woman was waiting to measure me. I’m so excited! New gowns! Elven ones too! It’s mid-afternoon now. My first gown should be done by early evening, Arwen said. I can’t wait!

I am going to Master Bilbo’s room now to hear another story!

Later…

I never made it to master Bilbo’s room. Who would come and talk to me but Gandalf himself! I was quite surprised to see HIM coming down the hall, big staff in hand, long grey beard and clothes. He did look quite old! I didn’t think he was going to talk to me until he said, "Lady Amee?" I nodded. "I would like to speak with you a moment." I swallowed my panic. I smiled however. We went and sat down on a stone bench by a wall. "So you are the little girl Aragorn spoke of?"

"I suppose so, Master Gandalf."

Oops. Another slip! He eyes me with wariness. "How did you know that I am Gandalf?"

"The Hobbits, sir. They talked an awful lot about you. And Lord Aragorn too. How is Mr. Frodo?"

"Did they, hmmm? Well, I wanted to meet you, for Aragorn says he has not met such a brave little girl in many a year. Frodo is doing fine. Yet he talks much in his sleep. I fear for him yet, though…May I ask where you are of?"

I swallowed and said calmly, "A far region, sir. A very long ways off. In fact, few from my land ever make it to Middle-Earth." He bushed his eyebrows up again. ‘Twas a very vague answer.

"Hmmm...indeed. Is it custom for girls of your land to wander far by themselves? Especially for ones that have knowledge of things that do not normally concern little girls." I gave him a confuzed look. (I was not confused tho. I can read between the lines.)

Then he gave me the most piercing look. He stared me in the eyes, as if trying to peer into my mind to see what else I might know besides the names for the Black Riders and Strider. His eyebrows were bushy. I kept calm and gave him my best "I may be a girl but I can kick arse" look. "Interesting," he mused.

But he said no more, only a polite excuse to leave.

I wonder what he thinks. Does he think I know more than I should?? Oh, Lord above, help me! But I’m relieved he didn’t ask me anymore.

I miss Mom and Dad. It’s hard without them. The stress of the trip is finally catching up to me…

Later…

My dress is done! It was quick, but the seamstress has quick fingers. It’s a lovely dress! I was so excited! It’s long, of course, dark red silk with long flowing sleeves and a leaf-shaped collar. It fits perfectly! (I’ve gotten thinner, as I’ve told you.) But these shoes are hard to get used to. Elven shoes are rather dainty. I bet I’ll wear them out by the end of the week!

But I love the Elves. They're so nice and wise. You just want to keep staring at them!

[Tar-Ancalimë]

lol she should just tell the truth and if they dont believe it thats their problem ;)

great story ash :cuddles:

[Pil]

...*gulp*...She needs to be more careful.... :o

lol

That was very good...i wonder if gandalf will be able to decifer her vague answers... :huh: :p

Keep it up! :)

[Bess the Bard]

Ash, I would be the one rudely staring at the Elves, drinking in their ethereal beauty, wondering what they think about, wanting to BE them. I'm glad Aimee is more polite, but then she is on a mission and has more to distract her. Great story, keep it up.

[Lady Ashley]

Oct. 23, 1418

Another day! I talked with Arwen some while she and the seamstress were sewing on my second dress. They asked if I wanted to sew some of it, but I told them I could not sew. They were astonished, but said nothing. I bet they thought it was just a strange custom from my land.

So I simply sat there and talked with them. Arwen is v. nice.

I finally made it to Master Bilbo for another story. And what did he do? He fell asleep! So I went and wandered the halls of Rivendell. I haven’t met Lord Elrond yet. I wonder if Master Gandalf will tell him anything about me. He looked awfully curious about my answers yesterday.

Later…

There was only a few Elves singing on the porches after dinner. Yet even one will carry you away to wonderful places and strange histories and happenings in the songs.

Now it is dark and the stars are out in number. They’re so pretty. Especially here in Rivendell. The flight to the ford and the last month seem to be almost dreamlike and far away. It’s good to be safe. Tomorrow Frodo wakes up! Then comes the Council of Elrond. No one speaks of it, but I know of course. Not secret to me! Still, one could guess something was up, I noticed several dwarves arriving. Gloin and Gimli I’m sure! I can’t wait for the council!

Oct. 24, 1418

Frodo is awake!! We’re all terribly happy, Sam especially. Tonight will be the grand feast! I have my second dress ready. It’s a violet colored one, made of velvet! It’s quite long still, so I always trip over it if I don’t hold it above my toe.

Have to go to dinner!

Later…

The most excellent supper yet! There was music and singing and oh! it was wonderful. I don’t even miss pizza or Chinese food. Frodo met up with Master Bilbo and was happy as a clam. Master Bilbo’s song was perfect (though I heard a preview yesterday).

Tomorrow is the Council!!!

Oct. 25, 1418

Everyone is in the Council! I’m sitting here with Merry and Pippin, who are upset about not getting to go. I didn’t tell them Sam snuck in. Plenty of time for them to get upset about THAT later….I found a bow no one was using and am going to learn how to shoot it. I’m determined to learn how. I have only two months to get good at it!

Boromir of Gondor is here. I don’t like him. I never liked him even while reading about him. In person is worse. I was out early before the Council, when he arrived in all his journey-worn finery. I greeted him, but he gave me an audible sniff of disdain! How rude is that? I got a warmer greeting from Legolas. Very polite! And he was how I had imagined him as well! I always knew he had long blonde hair, even before the movie came out. He was very nice to me, nicer than Mr. I’m-the-Son-of-the-Steward, of Gondor. I’m going to tell Frodo to keep an eye out for him.

[Nessa the Dancer]

That is excellent Ash!!
I like Amee's opinions on the characters.
Great story, I love it!!

[Lady Melody]

This is so cute and adorable!! lol lol Serious!!!
I love the childlike enthsiasm by way which it is written!

[Pil]

Indeed....it's accurate, yet fuuuuuuuuuuny ! lol roflmao :p

Keep it up girl! Look forward to the next bit! :)

[Tar-Ancalimë]

it was great, terrific, humorous, entertaining, worthy, diverting, pleasurable, adorable, riveting, and wonderful veryhappy...



...up until the last entry!!!! what, you dont like Boromir??? My fav char ever, books and movie?!? :angry: :( mecry

[Lady Ashley]

He's very arrogant. I'm like Amee. Didn't go for him in the book. lol Sorry, twin. You'll just looooove the other nickname. *snicker*

Thanks for your reviews! Y'all are really encouraging. It'll get a bit more serious, I think, once the story gets darker. But that's some of favorite things about it..

[Tar-Ancalimë]

hey! she snickered at me! did you guys see that? she snickered at me!

lol.... ok... fine then :p....ill just snicker at your story *snickers*

lol jk!!!!! i like it, EXCEPT ...forwhatialreadymentionedsoimjustshuttingupnowby e!

[Bess the Bard]

The pacing is very good and I love seeing the story unfold through Amee's eyes. Keep it coming!!

[Lady Ashley]

Later on Oct. 25...

It’s official: Frodo is going to Mordor to destroy the Ring and Sam is going too, of course. When they told us all about it, I felt so proud! Yet they don’t look happy. Why would they? They think it’s a hopeless trip. I said, "I don’t believe a word of that! You’ll both come back just fine, and anyone who goes with you too."

Frodo smiled and said he would try. I know he will. Aragorn has left already to ride out with Elrond’s sons, Elrohir and Elladan on a scouting trip.

Meanwhile, I’m still practicing with my bow. Erestor said I may keep it. How nice! It’s a good bow, naturally. I only have trouble hitting the target, though I think I’m holding it right. Maybe it’s the sleeve flaps that are hampering me. I can't wait for the Quest! Except for orcs and Black Riders and such nasty things.

Oct. 29

Lots of bow training. The Hobbits are quite relaxed and happy here. I am too. But I’m not going to stay idle. I’m using my sword too. I have another gown, and a fourth being made. Arwen is teaching me how to sew also.

Nov, 1

Raining outside. Quite boring. Sewing is hard. I’m getting used to these dresses, but I would like to wear comfy trousers once in a while.

Nov. 2

No rain! All day outside with the Hobbits. They say I’m very good with my bow. Legolas, however, gave me some help with how to hold the bow. He’s still v. nice. Boromir is still snotty and rude. He ignores me. Master Gimli does not give me the cold shoulder, though. He’s a very nice Dwarf, the first I’ve met. I’m taller than he is! Heehee!

Nov. 15

I’ve been very busy! Thanks goodness, I don’t have to think about Mom and Dad being upset about my absence. I have a new pair of trousers and a tunic for practice. Arwen said she did not wish to see me trip in my dresses and get them dirty in the gardens, or wet if an arrow went into a pond or something. My trousers are blue and my tunic is brown. I also have a new pair of Elf shoes. That’s the third pair!

The journey through Eriador seems more like dream every day. But I can still remember what is going to happen later on. It scares me. I don’t like Balrogs and battles, yet I’m determined to go with Frodo and the Company!

Nov. 18

Master Erestor is helping me with my sword technique and bow skill! I’m getting better. But I’m still not nearly as fast or good at it as the Elves.

Nov. 20

Something funny today! (Though it wasn’t very funny at the time.) I nearly shot Boromir with an arrow! He was walking in the garden and I was shooting. I was dodging (imaginary) Orcs, bow in hand, and missed the target (a tree). It went wide and missed Boromir by an inch. In fact, it nicked the back of his tunic (arse section). He was boiling mad. "Bows are not for children! Especially girls!," he growled. His grey eyes were flecked with flaming anger. I grimaced, but stood my ground. I was not truly afraid to fight him, though I know I would have been dog-meat if it had come to blows. But it didn’t.

"Pray you stay your anger, Lord Boromir!" I turned and there stood Master Elrond! "The Lady Amee is merely training herself with the bow," he continued. "’Twas a harmless thing."

Boromir could certainly not gainsay Elrond Halfelven. He bowed and replied evenly that he was sorry for his anger. He left. I was NOT sorry to see him go. I bowed to Lord Elrond and thanked him. He smiled and, "’Tis no trouble, Lady Amee. But do be careful with your shooting. And I hear it is coming along quite well." I smiled. He went on. "That is good. Even a young lady should know how to defend herself, especially in these times. May I have a word with you? I was truly coming out to speak with you." I nodded and he led the way through the garden.

He began to speak, telling me that he had heard many good narratives about me from Aragorn and Gandalf and the Hobbits and his daughter. But where did I come to learn the name of the Black Riders and Aragorn, and how I came to call him "Sire", and most importantly, know Frodo had the Ring? I was caught. Lie or not lie? that was the question. I decided to go half and half.

"Well, sir, I have seen records before about Sauron and his forces. And Lord Aragorn also told the Hobbits and I his true name himself in Bree. As for his title, Master Bilbo’s poem fits him exactly, with the Sword-that-was-Broken and all. The hobbis also told me about what was said of him in the Council. I knew of the Ring only by guessing and somesuch." (Technically true because I guessed which pocket Frodo had the Ring in.) He gave me that queer look I’m learning to hate. Both of us knew I’d called the Ranger his true name before it was mentioned.

"I see," he murmured. "Master Gandalf seems to believe that you know quite a bit about things."

"Things, sir?"

"Yes, several things, though we are not sure what. Know you the lore of the Rings of Power?"


"Yes, sir, I do. And it’s a good thing the Three are on such good hands, because—"

I stopped short. Lord Elrond had a small smile, though it quickly turned grave. He knew I knew! I bit my lip and wished I didn’t have a big mouth. "But you have nothing to worry about, sir. I will keep my lips sealed about the Three’s whereabouts. I shan’t speak about them to anyone," I promised solemnly, standing as straight as I could, hoping to look older than I am. It might have worked, for Lord Elrond gave me the same look Gandalf gave me, but with a good more wisdom, though Gandalf is the older of the two. He smiled. "I am sure I can trust you, Lady Amee. You are a good child and a courageous one." Then he left. Yet I get the feeling he thinks I know more than just about the Elven Rings.

Good grief. Child. I hate that word now.

Dec 5

The scouts are going to be back soon! More training than ever. Am getting good. Still not as fast with drawing arrows from my quiver as the Elves. The Hobbits are impressed though. Frodo is sad again, he must know that the time to leave is soon.

Dec 16

Aragorn is back. The scouts found no traces of the Nazgul. No kidding, they’re far away in the east. We should be leaving soon. Aragorn helped me with my sword training. Let’s see a dirty old Orc try to get past me!

Dec. 18

Elrond called the hobbits together (and I went too). He said that the time to leave was soon and wished Merry and Pippin to stay, but they did not want to stay. Gandalf was so nice to defend them! And Elrond agreed. He mentioned that Legolas and Gimli and Boromir were also to be part of the Company of the Ring---it was to be Nine members. "But what about Amee?," asked Frodo. What about Amee indeed?? "She is going too, isn’t she?"

Gandalf and Elrond had a sad look in their eyes. I suddenly knew what it was coming to. They didn’t need to say it. "Frodo, I don’t think I’m going." My voice was barely above a whisper, and rough.

Elrond nodded. "Frodo, Lady Amee is not accompanying you."

"But why, Lord Elrond?"

A pause. "Because I’m a girl, Frodo," I said quietly. It stung, though I knew that was the truth.

He frowned. "But you were so brave! Please let her go, Lord Elrond!" The other Hobbits chorused the plea, standing around me. But he was firm. He said he did not wish me to go into danger. I swallowed, trying not to cry. "No, I am firm on this, good Hobbits," said Elrond.

Aragorn patted my shoulder. Merry and Pippin hugged my waist. I felt sad down to my toes. Past my toes. I said, "That is alright, Frodo. Lord Elrond has made his decision. We must abide with it." I did not cry, but I felt like it. I still feel like it. I left and went back to my room and sat by the window, refusing to cry. I may be a girl, but I’m not a cry-baby. I refuse to!

Dec 20

Anduril is be re-forged. I watched it a bit today. Spent time with the five Hobbits (including Bilbo). They’re really sad that…I’m not mentioning that. I guess all that training went to waste.

I’m depressed now. Why did I come at all? I’m no use now! I’ll have to sit here at Rivendell while the Company gets to go and do all those great deeds without me!

Yet perhaps I shall come later, when the Banner is delivered. But then they probably wouldn't let me go then either.

Dec 24

Christmas Eve! They don’t have this holiday here in Middle-Earth, but I’m celebrating anyway. I’m just going to spend the day thinking about Christ’s birth while the Company gets ready to leave tomorrow. Without me.

[Pil]

Oh dear! i hope she ends up going! maybe she could hide in sam's bottomless backpack? :huh: lol

This is great! I'm REALLY looking forward to the next bit! Post! :thumbs: :p

[Lady Ashley]

I am soooo mean to Boromir....*grin*

Later on Dec 24….

Was I ever wrong!! You wouldn’t believe the change of fate! I GET TO GO!! It was amazing! They called me into Lord Elrond’s receiving room, where the Company, minus the Hobbits, where sitting with Elrond. They were talking about me! "She should not go! She is a girl! A mere child!," exclaimed Master Pin-Cushion a.k.a. Boromir. "She will only slow our march!" What was this about?, I wondered.

"I must agree with the son of Denethor," said Gimli, "though the little girl is quite nice. But I agree with whatever Lord Elrond says." Legolas said he would go with whatever they chose too. (You should have seen their faces. An Elf and Dwarf agreeing on something! Wait until later where they’re really good friends.)

Then I cleard my throat and everyone saw me at the doorway. Master Elrond bidded me come in.

They argued some more, but Gandalf took up my case! Aragorn had already suggested that I do to provide "heart" to the Hobbits, but when Gandalf stepped in, Lord Elrond said I could go!!! I’m so HAPPY! Boromir did not look happy. Too bad.

I get to have my own mail-coat and cloak!!! A true Christmas miracle! Thank you, Lord God!!!

Evening…

Had our last meal here. My mail coat is so nice. Not mithril, but almost as good. It’s light and fits me nicely under my tunic and long shirt. My new cloak is grey and heavy and lined with fur. I’ve got my trusty sword and bow, too. I won’t have a helmet, though. Too heavy for a long trip. Master Gimli has one though, but he’s a Dwarf. They make light of burdens, so says Mr. Tolkien. Then there are my wrist-gauntlets.

I also have a knife in my boot and a knife at my waist. Amee Boen is not Questing without being prepared! When Master Gandalf brought me a pair of REAL boots (Man style, not Elf), he asked, "Why have you so much weaponry? Our way lies in secrecy, not open battle." I replied, "It does not hurt to be prepared, sir. You never know what you may encounter." I looked him right in the eye and he grunted and bristled his eyebrows.

I’m ready to march tomorrow! You will be going with me, of course. But I may not wrote as often, but as often as I can.

Jan. 8 - Hollin

Hollin! We Ten are in Hollin! Or if you’d rather, Eregion. It’s been so cold and miserable and my feet hurt. I’m so glad Master Gandalf gave me a pair of Man-boots for Elf shoes would have worn away on my feet. But I’ve been trying to keep Frodo, Sam, Merry and Pippin from getting too depressed. Yet it seemed to help the others more. Gimli and Legolas seem to like my jokes and "merry tales." At least it helped someone! Frodo is one of the most miserable, but said "a real sunrise is mighty welcome." It’s been grey and icy with no true dawn until the weather changed. Just sad, grey light. But I’ve never been so cold.

But I’m bearing it as best I can, so Boromir can’t say "I told you so" or whatever the Middle-Earth equivalent is.

(Did I forget to mention that I have developed a lovely 'British' accent? No wonder, what with being around those with that accent.)

The mountains are beautful, snowy and white and majestic. I cannot wait to look upon the plains of Rohan or the White City!

Jan. 13 – West-Gate

Now that we are safely (figuratively speaking of course) at the West-Gate of Moria, I can speak with you. It’s been a long trek from Hollin, the Redhorn Gate (I hate snow now), the Warg attack (I was pretty handy with my bow too!) and finally here. I gave my bit in on everything, though no one would really listen. Fine with me! But Boromir couldn’t resist telling me to "keep silent, you are here for the Halfings only, girl, not to give advice." Sam piped up, saying that my advice was good as anyone’s. He doesn’t like Boromir either.

Poor Master Gandalf! He is still trying his spells on the Gate. You should have seen it light up! It’s beautiful, the door, lit up by magic. The runes are lovely and shine bright. I can understand them for I studied them (as well as the maps) at Imladris. "The Doors of Durin, Lord of Moria. Speak, friend, and enter." I’d like to tell them the riddle, but what fun would that be? I’d rather let them figure it out than make them even more suspicious of me.

Stupid Boromir, he has just thrown a rock into that nasty lake! [pause] Then, "Why don’t you go back to Rivendell with the pony?," he says. My foot I will! I suppose I should not have told him not to throw that rock? "See how you like it when you get made into a pin-cushion later on, sir," I’d like to say. But of course I don’t. Yet maybe I should feel sorry for him, being a weak Man and susceptible to the power of the Ring. Or maybe not. I still do not like Master Pin-Cushion and

[Lady Ashley]

(sorry for the delay! I sort of forgot about this...but here we are! and yay! I can move on through TT!!)

A Rest in the Guard Chamber…who knows when

It is very dark in here, save for a tiny candle I’ve smuggled with me. Master Gandfal is guarding the door, but cannot sleep, for the drums sounding below, and my dream. The Water-in-the-Water was quite exciting.

I still feel useless. I could not prevent Pippin from dropping that accursed rock down the well! When we entered, I was on my guard to keep him from it, but ‘twas too late, I saw him with the rock and yelled, "No, Pip!," but too late! Down it dropped and there came Gandalf’s "What’s that? Fool of a Took! This is a serious journey, not a hobbit walking party. Throw yourself in next time, and then you will be no further nuisance!" I am quite sure Master Steward’s Son wished I was that rock. He grumbled about having a female along would be. However, Legolas and Aragorn defended me.

Now it is sleeping-time. I cannot sleep, as I said. I had a dream. An awful one. It has disturbed my rest before, at the beginning of our journey., and at Master Bombadil's house.

You see, in my dream, the Company is in cavern-room, round a stone table, arranged by height. Before each is layed an open book. In each book there are pictures, but they live and move like a film. They each tell each their fate. In Gandalf’s, it shows flame and shadow, but then white light and the creaking of wind in masts. Lord Aragorn’s book shows a fair city of white, with a black standard at the top of the White Tower, for that is of course Minas Tirith. Boromir’s book shows many black arrows. Legolas’s shows waves upon the shore, and a wind of salt air blows. Gimli’s has it’s living picture of glittering caverns and yet, in the end, the sounds of the shore. Merry and Pippin’s books showed nearly the same thing, tall green grass and hobbit children running merrily through it. Sam’s beheld a vision of fire, then a tall silver tree and tall rows of corn. Frodo’s was very sad, fire and darkness and pain, and then a ship at Sea, going West.

But what disturbs me is my own book. Not what it had in it, for it was empty! I’m nearly in tears. The books held a vision of everyone’s fate! But what of my own? Nothing! I know not my fate, of all in Middle-earth. For I was not in the books. This scares me to no end. What will my lot be? Will I die? Live? What? But would I want to know, if I could? I do not know the answer.

A flet in the Golden Wood who knows when…

The woods here are fairer that I’ve ever seen, and we are not even to Caras Galadhon. The sickle moon is staring down at us while we sleep. I can still smell the trail the Orcs left before they crossed the Nimrodel. Gollum I shan’t speak of, though I saw him not.

Gandalf is gone. I hate Balrogs. They smell worse than Orcs and cause much more grief. The battle in the Chamber of Records was horrid. We cut down thirteen Orcs before the rest fled. I was pretty good in battle! My first! I used both bow and sword. I was frightened at killing my first Orc, but felt the satifaction the second time. I got a couple of bruises, but poor Frodo was injured worse(in a manner of speaking). Then came the Bridge and Gandalf battled with the Balrog. That creature is horrible! Flames and a whip along it’s many talents. And no, I could not see if he had wings after all. I was too busy running for dear life with the Company, carrying Merry on my back to help speed our flight.

Then we left and all were grieved. I cried with the Hobbits, sitting with them round me. I miss Gandalf. He was almost a grandfather to me. I'm still sad to think of him.

But I was to have a worse start. I was humming that song. You remember, don’t you? The one called "In Dreams" from the movie CD. Frodo, resting after his wound was tended by Aragorn, asked me what it was. I sang it out loud. He looked quite surprised at it and asked if I’d written it. I crossed my fingers and lied that I had. "'Twas made it for you."

Then Frodo sighed. "I thank you for your song. It is hard, Amee. The Ring is heavier as we come nearer to Mordor. I fear I won't go there and back again like Bilbo did on his adventure. I fear I shan’t return at all."

I smiled. "Oh, Frodo, you will! Believe! I have faith in you. We all do. The Enemy will never conquer. If Lord Elrond did not think you could do it, he would not have sent you on with It."

He gave me a sad look, and a grave one. "You have more confidence than I, Amee. Perhaps…perhaps the Ring’s Bearer ought to have your strength." He pulled the Ring out on Its chain. I sucked in a breath. I’d never seen the Ring before. It was so small, and plain. Hardly a look of evil upon it.

I cannot believe this, but I suddenly felt a desire to hold it. It was strong. I started to breathe hard and I turned away quickly. I shook my head, gulping, breathing a pray to God for strength. "No, Frodo, I don’t want it. 'Tis not for me to bear. I am not strong. I am of Men, and Men are easily taken. Please don't offer it to me." I felt suddenly horrible and walked away for a moment. Look at me! I am not as strong as I thought. Evil has influence over me, me who knows what it can do! I am…weak. But I will NEVER look upon It again, nor even mention It’s true name. I don’t want to end up like Boromir.

And I shan't. God, please give me strength to resist! My prayers are the only thing keeping my mind off of It. And getting me through grief. I'm scared I won't be strong enough, but I know God will help me. He always does.

[Pil]

:o I hope she can resist the ring..... :elf:

Keep this up hon....sorry i haven't posted in ages! :thumbs:

[Aaliyah Baggins]

OHHH Poor Amee!
What a horrible mess she is in!
poor Frodo!
Pray to GOD and thou will be safe!:elfqueen:

[Lady Ashley]

sorry it's been so long! but now I'm motivated to post this...but this is my fave part.

Caras Galadhon…

The Lady is wonderful! Lothlorien is wonderful! I never thought there could exist such a place, outside of heaven. The trees are giant and silver and gold, and the Elves are simply marvolous. But the Lord and Lady! Majestic and fair, yet sad. Almost exactly I knew them, yet fairer than anything I have yet encountered on my journey. The Lady Galadriel was named well, for her hair is more golden than the sun, the radience of the Golden Tree in the West. Yet her gaze is…something different. She spoke to my mind, and asked if I, well, if I would like to go home. And…something else. I couldn’t look into her eyes very long and hung my head. I did not ask to go away. I shall stay by Frodo until it is time to part.

I do think she knew I had been tempted by It. Her gaze said all.

…The woods are untouched by evil, the only evil in the evil that we brought into it. But it will be no more by this time next year. But for now, we are to "let not our hearts be troubled" and "sleep in peace." I hope I can.

Another day….

Time passes so strangely here and I have lost count of the date. But I don’t mind. The air is filled with the sounds of mourning Elves, singing their lament for Gandalf. I know a little of the Elven tongue, for I did spend time listening to the Elves of Rivendell. But not too much, and I shan’t record the lament here.

I went for a walk with Legolas and Gimli today. ‘Twas lovely. They are becoming better friends, now that Gimli knows the truth of the Lady of the Golden Wood and honors and respects her. There is peace and hope in the air. I almost wish I could stay here for ever. But that is not to be.

I have noticed I have not had that dream since we entered Lorien.

Another day in the Golden Wood

I played chess with the Hobbits today. They are good players. Aragorn told us a happy tale of Numenor (or Westernesse if you prefer). It was quite exciting to hear of the deeds of the good kings of the Land of the Star. Boromir even told us about the White City. I wish I could go there, and I may yet.

It’s nice to sit and relax after so long a journey. No need to carry my weapons around. I have gotten taller, I’ve noticed. I’ve grown at least four inches since leaving the Shire. It seems that I have changed in other ways too. Though this world is supposed to have been made by many ‘gods’, I feel closer to my God. I do not know, but perhaps it is His peace that fills this wood as well?

Yet am I wrong to enjoy this place, while my parents could be suffering with unhappiness because I am gone?

Next day…

The finest rockets ever seen:

they burst in stars of blue and green,

or after thunder golden showers

came falling like a rain of flowers.

Sam’s poem of Gandalf’s rockets! I said I’d record it for him, and he said, "Well, well, that is very nice of you, Miss Amee. It doesn’t do his fire-works justice, though. Oh, I wish you could have seen ‘em, miss!" I smiled and said I could imagine them well enough. Sam is such a good Hobbit. I truly am glad he will go with Frodo. Goodness, if only the Enemy knew who he was up against! Oh, wouldn’t he just quiver!

Many days later, I suppose…

I miss Mom and Dad, but one day blends into another, filled with happiness and light. Oh, dairy, I wish you could be here with me. The light! Perhaps heaven’s light is something like this. I could die right now and be completely happy.

The day after the Day of the Mirror

I have seen in the Mirror.

I went with Sam and Frodo, not on my own accord, but Lady Galadriel asked me to come. Not truly asked with words, but…called.

When we arrived in the green hollow, she filled the silver basin with water from the stream from the fountain. I looked for her Ring, but found it not, but a glimmer of moonlight on her hand. I knew that was what it was. She spoke to us of the mirror. "Do you wish to look?," she asked. She looked to me first.

"Me? Why me, my Lady?," I asked.

She looked at me with the eyes of the Wise, who have seen countless years of sorrow and grief, full of knowledge. For a moment, it felt as if we were alone. "I perceive you know many things, Amee of Boen, yet the one thing you do not know, is what you wish to know above anything else. Would you see it if you could?"

I bit my lip and turned my gaze to the Mirror. It could show things "that were, and things that are, and things that yet may be." Did I want to see my fate? For that was the one thing is all the land I knew not. I pushed back my hair and stepped up to the Mirror.

I saw darkness, then saw my parents faces, creased with sorrow, crying. My throat caught. Then I heard a great roar and thunder. I thought it was true thunder, but then more images began to arrive. Horses, many horses in battle. I could see myself on one, charging my enemies. I yelled a war cry, yet I could not understand the words. Then I saw something come at me, and I fell from my horse, crying out as in pain! Then more images came about, another place, but I saw someone on the ground. Who? I then realized I was seeing my own face, white as…death. An arrow protruded from my chest. I could feel the pain searing my heart right then as I gazed. I gave a gasp and pulled back from the Mirror, breathing hard and stumbled, falling onto the ground.

I sat there a moment. I must have looked ill for Sam and Frodo asked if I was alright. I nodded and gave a shaky smile. "I am fine, just fine." But I looked not at them, but at the Lady. She nodded ever so slightly. I looked away and felt inclined to leave the glade, but I did not. I only sat and watched as the Hobbits took their enlightening turns. I was even rather frightened when she was transformed into a fair and terrible vision before out eyes, but she passed the test. Her voice was sorrowful, yet sounded free, as she said, "I pass the test. I shall diminish and go into the West, and remain Galadriel."

I followed softly after the Hobbits when we left the little hollow.

And last night, when I finally slept, my dream returned. Only this time I saw my vision in my book.

Day, on the Anduin by Elven boat

I cannot describe our departure from the fair land of Lorien. It is too sorrowful to tell. But I will tell you the gifts the Lord and Lady of the Wood gave to me. I received one of the wonderful grey, Elven cloaks as the rest of my companions. I also received belt of silver leaves with a sheath that matches my sword.

But this is my best gift. The Lady looked long at me. "And for the Lady of the Company, I also have this." She produced a tiny silver harp. I plucked a cord and the music was the sweetest thing I had ever heard. Like music from heaven, I think.

I swallowed the lump in my throat and bowed to her. She stood me up, and to my utter shock and amazement, embraced me.

I cannot say how much my heart was touched. I have not had a hug in so long; not a mother’s. She said gently, "I know your sorrow, for I was a mother and know a mother’s heart. Go in peace, Lady of the Company." I sniffed and was released. I fell back with my companions, fighting tears. I feel so much better now. But her songs were so sad. I cannot forget them. Lady of the Company. That title makes me smile.

Now we sail the Anduin, passing the Brown Lands on the left and Rohan on the right. I am in Legolas and Gimli’s boat, sitting between them. I can see Sam though, looking perfectly miserable for being in a boat. I smile. We shan’t travel too long in them, Sam. I can see Borormir pattling nearer to Aragorn's boat that Sam and Frodo are in. I must keep my eye on him. But what could I do? What will happen is meant to happen. I will not change anything. But even if I tried, I could not.

[Lady Ashley]

Ok...this is as far as I will go until ROTK comes out. No spoilers past the end of this chapter!

8 days later

By heaven! I am in such a state! The Nazgul passed over us in the dark this day! On its winged beast!! I could feel the shadow of terror in my heart, but I prayed for peace and it overcame the terror.

Praise God in heaven that Legolas is a good shot. Not long until we reach Parth Galen.

I cannot forget my vision. Am I to die? And if so, where? Do I WANT to know? I almost regret looking into the Mirror. It is one thing to wonder about what your fate will be, yet it is another to know what it could be. I could DIE. This place is REAL. A real place that if I’m not careful, I could be killed. And if I did, where would I go? To heaven like in my world? Or would I be doomed to go wherever these Men go here?

Must stop writing. Is making me depressed. Though the scenery is almost as depressing. New Zealand has NOTHING on this place.

The next day – The Argonath

Magnificent! The Argonath is terribly big! I can see the ancient stone statures of Aragorn's ancestors looking over the river, each with one arm in front, palm toward us in warning. The river carries us swiftly past the giant statues. I can see the oval lake and far away, Tol Brandir and the Hills of Sight and of Hearing, where the fate of Middle-Earth shall begin to be decided.

Parth Galen

Well, it is over. The Company is broken! Id not follow Frodo and Borormir. Fate led them to their meeting. I know that I cannot alter the course of the tale.

So I followed Merry and Pippin when they ran into the woods, but then circled back to wait for Sam and Frodo. I waited until they came back to shore and were ready to be off. "Sam! Frodo!," I called. Frodo got frightened, thinking I would make him saty, but I shook my head and held up my hands. "It is your choice, I cannot stop you. You are meant to go, I think." They smiled and I hugged them and saw them off.

I could watched them go completely across and ran into the woods. I found fleeing Orcs and managed to slay one or two. I found L, G. and A. with the body of Boromir, surrouned by dead Orcs.

Now I can here their songs for Boromir, sad ones. I suppose he was brave after all. I wish I could have warned him, any of them. But it is too late. Pippin and Merry are taken, Frodo and Sam are going to Mordor. I shan’t write much, as we have a long journey ahead. I pray that they’ll all be alright after all. Frodo has Sting and the Phial and Sam. M. and P. have their wits. I suppose we are the Four Hunters now. I played my harp and lamented for Boromir. I could not sing at home, but it seems in Middle-Earth all can sing.

4 long days later…night…

Fangorn Forest looms about us darkly. Frightening, but not quite as dark as Moria. At least I can rest! Have you ever tracked for days without much rest? I have now. But I did not complain! The wonderful lembas Lady Galadriel gave us helped me a great deal.

We have met the Rohirrim! Eomer (he is very tall and very nice by the way) mistook me for an Elven maid until we straightened him out about all of us and he thought it was strange for a female to travel with males at all. Hah! Eomer gave us horses (my grey mare is called Elfmane) and there was the bumpy journey to Fangorn, where we, of course, have not found the hobbits. "I fear it may be some time before we meet them again," I said earlier. "But we will." They nodded. I think they somehow believe me, for my ‘advice’ has been good before.

Ooh, soon we shall see Gandalf! (I hope I get used to my horse. I can't ride very well. But perhaps I will learn.)

For some reason, I am getting taller and taller. "You will be nearly 6 feet soon," laughed Aragorn.

Isenguard…5th of March?

Yes, I am in Isenguard. I have had NO time at all to write, for war and riding have taken all my time. But it was well worth it, though the Battle of the Hornburg was not my idea of fun. Now we sit listening to Merry and Pippin’ tale.

While in Fangorn, we at last met Gandalf. I was the only one not surprised, though the bright white flashes did dazzle me. He is Gandalf the White now. I was relieved to see him. He is a strong presence. I am afraid I almost hugged him. But I did not. Then we left and went to Edoras, where Gandalf healed the King of Rohan and kicked that nasty Wormtongue out. Edoras is lovely! You should have seen Lady Eowyn! The books describe her reaction to meeting Aragorn well. Yet it is something else to see it. I was quite close to telling her Aragorn already has someone---Arwen. It would have been interesting to see what would have happened! But I cannot alter anything like that. It would not be right.

Then we rode to Helm’s Deep and fought the battle. I "battled well, lass" as Master Gimli said. I killed a great many orcs, and only received a long cut on my arm. But I do not like war. I was horribly weary and could barely ride my horse later. Yet God gave me the strength I needed. But we have reached Isensguard and Orthanc stands in the middle of the ruin of the Ents. The Ents! I wish to meet Master Treebeard. Orthanc looks...horrid. Big and black and solid.

I wonder where Sam and Frodo are now. Our journeys are now racing toward the final end.