Brakets People A Tale Worthy of a Telling: Part 2 The Lost Light Elves

Yet by a sense other than sight Pippin perceived that Gandalf had the greater power and the deeper wisdom, and a majesty that was veiled. And he was older, far older. Treebeard had said something about wizards, but even then he had not thought of Gandalf as one of them. In what far time and place did he come into the world, and when would he leave it? But it was Denethor who first withdrew his gaze. Then men came bearing a chair and a low stool, and one brought a salver with a silver flagon and cups, and white cakes.

Pippin sat down, but he could not take his eyes from the old lord. Pippin never forgot that hour in the great hall under the piercing eye of the Lord of Gondor, stabbed ever and anon by his shrewd questions, and all the while conscious of Gandalf at his side, watching and listening, and so Pippin felt holding in check a rising wrath and impatience.

When the hour was over and Denethor again rang the gong, Pippin felt worn out. But be it known that I have now sworn him to my service, and he shall be known as Peregrin son of Paladin and taught the lesser pass-words. Send word to the Captains that they shall wait on me here, as soon as may be after the third hour has rung. None shall hinder your coming to me at any time, save only in my brief hours of sleep. You can use even your grief as a cloak.

Do you think that I do not understand your purpose in questioning for an hour one who knows the least, while I sit by? In that task you shall have all the aid that you are pleased to ask for. But I will say this: But all worthy things that are in peril as the world now stands, those are my care.

And for my part, I shall not wholly fail of my task, though Gondor should perish, if anything passes through this night that can still grow fair or bear fruit and flower again in days to come. For I also am a steward. Did you not know? Gandalf did not look at Pippin or speak a word to him as they went. Their guide brought them from the doors of the hall, and then led them across the Court of the Fountain into a lane between tall buildings of stone. After several turns they came to a house close to the wall of the citadel upon the north side, not far from the shoulder that linked the hill with the mountain.

Within, upon the first floor above the street, up a wide carven stair, he showed them to a fair room, light and airy, with goodly hangings of dull gold sheen unfigured. It was sparely furnished, having but a small table, two chairs and a bench; but at either side there were curtained alcoves and well-clad beds within with vessels and basins for washing. There were three high narrow windows that looked northward over the great curve of Anduin, still shrouded in mists, towards the Emyn Muil and Rauros far away.

Pippin had to climb on the bench to look out over the deep stone sill. Pippin glanced in some wonder at the face now close beside his own, for the sound of that laugh had been gay and merry. Still the Lord of Gondor learned more from you than you may have guessed, Pippin. You could not hide the fact that Boromir did not lead the Company from Moria, and that there was one among you of high honour who was coming to Minas Tirith; and that he had a famous sword.

He has long sight. He can perceive, if he bends his will thither, much of what is passing in the minds of men, even of those that dwell far off. It is difficult to deceive him, and dangerous to try. For you are now sworn to his service. I do not know what put it into your head, or your heart, to do that. But it was well done. I did not hinder it, for generous deed should not be checked by cold counsel.

It touched his heart, as well may I say it as pleasing his humour. And at least you are free now to move about as you will in Minas Tirith - when you are not on duty. For there is another side to it. You are at his command; and he will not forget. He fell silent and sighed. For one thing, tomorrow will be certain to bring worse than today, for many days to come.

And there is nothing more that I can do to help it. The board is set, and the pieces are moving. One piece that I greatly desire to find is Faramir, now the heir of Denethor. I do not think that he is in the City; but I have had no time to gather news. But the Enemy has the move, and he is about to open his full game.

And pawns are likely to see as much of it as any, Peregrin son of Paladin, soldier of Gondor. Gandalf went to the door, and there he turned. Even before you rest, if you are not too weary. Go and find Shadowfax and see how he is housed. These people are kindly to beasts, for they are a good and wise folk, but they have less skill with horses than some.

With that Gandalf went out; and as he did so, there came the note of a clear sweet bell ringing in a tower of the citadel. Three strokes it rang, like silver in the air, and ceased: After a minute Pippin went to the door and down the stair and looked about the street. The sun was now shining warm and bright, and the towers and tall houses cast long clear-cut shadows westward. High in the blue air Mount Mindolluin lifted its white helm and snowy cloak. Armed men went to and fro in the ways of the City, as if going at the striking of the hour to changes of post and duty.

And how I should like breakfast! Do these people ever have it, or is it over? And when do they have dinner, and where? Presently he noticed a man, clad in black and white, coming along the narrow street from the centre of the citadel towards him. Pippin felt lonely and made up his mind to speak as the man passed; but he had no need. The man came straight up to him. He held out his hand and Pippin took it. I have no duty this morning, and I have been sent to you to teach you the pass-words, and to tell you some of the many things that no doubt you will wish to know.

And for my part, I would learn of you also. For never before have we seen a halfling in this land and though we have heard rumour of them, little is said of them in any tale that we know. Moreover you are a friend of Mithrandir. Do you know him well? But there is much to read in that book, and I cannot claim to have seen more than a page or two. Yet perhaps I know him as well as any but a few.

Aragorn was the only one of our Company, I think, who really knew him. There is much that I would ask you of that land also; for we put much of what little hope we have in its people. But I am forgetting my errand, which was first to answer what you would ask.

What would you know, Master Peregrin? I mean, what are the meal-times, if you understand me, and where is the dining-room, if there is one? I looked, but never a one could I see as we rode up, though I had been borne up by the hope of a draught of ale as soon as we came to the homes of wise and courtly men. Beregond looked at him gravely. Then you have not yet eaten today? But you have broken your fast as well as any man in the Citadel, and with greater honour.

This is a fortress and a tower of guard and is now in posture of war. We rise ere the Sun, and take a morsel in the grey light, and go to our duties at the opening hour. But do not despair! Then there is the nuncheon, at noon or after as duties allow; and men gather for the daymeal, and such mirth as there still may be, about the hour of sunset. We will walk a little and then go find us some refreshment, and eat and drink on the battlement, and survey the fair morning. I think his new master loves the beast better than he loves many men, and if his good will is of any value to this city, you will treat Shadowfax with all honour: You shall make me acquainted with this good horse.

I love beasts, and we see them seldom in this stony city; for my people came from the mountain-vales, and before that from Ithilien. The visit shall be short, a mere call of courtesy, and we will go thence to the butteries. Pippin found that Shadowfax had been well housed and tended. For in the sixth circle, outside the walls of the citadel, there were some fair stables where a few swift horses were kept, hard by the lodgings of the errand-riders of the Lord: But now all the horses and the riders were out and away.

Shadowfax whinnied as Pippin entered the stable and turned his head. He is busy, but he sends greetings, and I am to see that all is well with you; and you resting, I hope, after your long labours. Shadowfax tossed his head and stamped. But he allowed Beregond to handle his head gently and stroke his great flanks.

Where is his harness? It should be rich and fair. If he will consent to bear you, bear you he does; and if not, well, no bit, bridle, whip, or thong will tame him. Shadowfax lifted up his head and neighed, so that the stable shook, and they covered their ears. Then they took their leave, seeing that the manger was well filled.

There they went down a long cool stair into a wide alley lit with lamps. There were hatches in the walls at the side, and one of these was open. He has ridden long and far with a tight belt, and has had sore labour this morning, and he is hungry. Give us what you have! They got there bread, and butter, and cheese and apples: They put all into a wicker basket and climbed back into the sun; and Beregond brought Pippin to a place at the east end of the great out-thrust battlement where there was an embrasure in the walls with a stone seat beneath the sill.

From there they could look out on the morning over the world. They ate and drank; and they talked now of Gondor and its ways and customs, now of the Shire and the strange countries that Pippin had seen. And ever as they talked Beregond was more amazed, and looked with greater wonder at the hobbit, swinging his short legs as he sat on the seat, or standing tiptoe upon it to peer over the sill at the lands below.

I thought it was the whim of our Lord to take him a noble page, after the manner of the kings of old, they say. But I see that it is not so, and you must pardon my foolishness. But do not bother about me. Come and look and tell me what I can see. The sun was now climbing, and the mists in the vale below had been drawn up. The last of them were floating away, just overhead, as wisps of white cloud borne on the stiffening breeze from the East, that was now flapping and tugging the flags and white standards of the citadel.

Away down in the valley-bottom, five leagues or so as the eye leaps, the Great River could now be seen grey and glittering, coming out of the north-west, and bending in a mighty sweep south and west again, till it was lost to view in a haze and shimmer, far beyond which lay the Sea fifty leagues away. Pippin could see all the Pelennor laid out before him, dotted into the distance with farmsteads and little walls, barns and byres, but nowhere could he see any kine or other beasts.

Many roads and tracks crossed the green fields, and there was much coming and going: Now and again a horseman would ride up, and leap from the saddle and hasten into the City. But most of the traffic went out along the chief highway, and that turned south, and then bending swifter than the River skirted the hills and passed soon from sight. It was wide and well-paved, and along its eastern edge ran a broad green riding-track, and beyond that a wall. On the ride horsemen galloped to and fro, but all the street seemed to be choked with great covered wains going south.

But soon Pippin saw that all was in fact well-ordered: They must all be gone from the Gate and the road clear for a league before noon: It is a sad necessity. And there were always too few children in this city; but now there are none-save some young lads that will not depart, and may find some task to do: They fell silent for a while. Pippin gazed anxiously eastward, as if at any moment he might see thousands of orcs pouring over the fields. For that is the ruin of Osgiliath on either side of Anduin, which our enemies took and burned long ago. Yet we won it back in the days of the youth of Denethor: And then came the Fell Riders out of Minas Morgul.

Perhaps it was mountains looming on the verge of sight, their jagged edges softened by wellnigh twenty leagues of misty air; perhaps it was but a cloud-wall, and beyond that again a yet deeper gloom. But even as he looked it seemed to his eyes that the gloom was growing and gathering, very slowly, slowly rising to smother the regions of the sun. We seldom name it; but we have dwelt ever in sight of that shadow: It is growing and darkening now; and therefore our fear and disquiet grow too. And the Fell Riders, less than a year ago they won back the crossings, and many of our best men were slain.

Boromir it was that drove the enemy at last back from this western shore, and we hold still the near half of Osgiliath. For a little while. But we await now a new onslaught there. Maybe the chief onslaught of the war that comes. For I saw the beacons last night and the errand-riders; and Gandalf said that it was a sign that war had begun.

He seemed in a desperate hurry. But now everything seems to have slowed up again. They have many ways of gathering news. And the Lord Denethor is unlike other men: Some say that as he sits alone in his high chamber in the Tower at night, and bends his thought this way and that, he can read somewhat of the future; and that he will at times search even the mind of the Enemy, wrestling with him. And so it is that he is old, worn before his time. But however that may be, my lord Faramir is abroad, beyond the River on some perilous errand, and he may have sent tidings. There is a great fleet drawing near to the mouths of Anduin, manned by the corsairs of Umbar in the South.

They have long ceased to fear the might of Gondor, and they have allied them with the Enemy, and now make a heavy stroke in his cause. For this attack will draw off much of the help that we looked to have from Lebennin and Belfalas, where folk are hardy and numerous. All the more do our thoughts go north to Rohan; and the more glad are we for these tidings of victory that you bring. This is a great war long-planned, and we are but one piece in it, whatever pride may say.

Things move in the far East beyond the Inland Sea, it is reported; and north in Mirkwood and beyond; and south in Harad. And now all realms shall be put to the test, to stand, or fall - under the Shadow. Here will the hammer-stroke fall hardest. And for that reason Mithrandir came hither in such haste. For if we fall, who shall stand?

And, Master Peregrin, do you see any hope that we shall stand? Pippin did not answer. He looked at the great walls, and the towers and brave banners, and the sun in the high sky, and then at the gathering gloom in the East; and he thought of the long fingers of that Shadow: He shuddered, and hope seemed to wither. And even at that moment the sun for a second faltered and was obscured, as though a dark wing had passed across it.

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Almost beyond hearing he thought he caught, high and far up in the heavens, a cry: He blanched and cowered against the wall. The very warmth of my blood seems stolen away. For a time they sat together with bowed heads and did not speak. Then suddenly Pippin looked up and saw that the sun was still shining and the banners still streaming in the breeze. Gandalf fell and has returned and is with us.

10. The Fairytales of the Brothers Grimm

We may stand, if only on one leg, or at least be left still upon our knees. Not though the walls be taken by a reckless foe that will build a hill of carrion before them. There are still other fastnesses, and secret ways of escape into the mountains. Hope and memory shall live still in some hidden valley where the grass is green.

What a long day it seems already! I should be happier, if we were not obliged to stand and watch, making no move, striking nowhere first. No stroke would have been struck in Rohan, I think, but for Gandalf. He is bold, more bold than many deem; for in these days men are slow to believe that a captain can be wise and learned in the scrolls of lore and song, as he is, and yet a man of hardihood and swift judgement in the field. But such is Faramir. Less reckless and eager than Boromir, but not less resolute.

Yet what indeed can he do?

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We cannot assault the mountains of - of yonder realm. Our reach is shortened, and we cannot strike till some foe comes within it. Then our hand must be heavy! Pippin looked at him: Perhaps but on the wrong chessboard. So they talked until the sun reached its height, and suddenly the noon-bells were rung, and there was a stir in the citadel; for all save the watchmen were going to their meal. I do not know to what company you will be assigned; or the Lord may hold you at his own command.

But you will be welcome. And it will be well to meet as many men as you may, while there is yet time. I left my best friend behind in Rohan, and I have had no one to talk to or jest with. Perhaps I could really join your company? Are you the captain? If so, you could take me on, or speak for me? Neither office nor rank nor lordship have I, being but a plain man of arms of the Third Company of the Citadel.

Yet, Master Peregrin, to be only a man of arms of the Guard of the Tower of Gondor is held worthy in the City, and such men have honour in the land. Gandalf was not in the lodging and had sent no message; so Pippin went with Beregond and was made known to the men of the Third Company.

And it seemed that Beregond got as much honour from it as his guest, for Pippin was very welcome. And some said that when the Riders came from Rohan each would bring behind him a halfling warrior, small maybe, but doughty. Though Pippin had regretfully to destroy this hopeful tale, he could not be rid of his new rank, only fitting, men thought, to one befriended by Boromir and honoured by the Lord Denethor; and they thanked him for coming among them, and hung on his words and stories of the outlands, and gave him as much food and ale as he could wish.

At length Beregond rose. But if you are lonely, as you say, maybe you would like a merry guide about the City. My son would go with you gladly. A good lad, I may say. You will find him there with other lads that are remaining in the City. There may be things worth seeing down at the Great Gate ere the closing. He went out, and soon after all the others followed. The day was still fine, though it was growing hazy, and it was hot for March, even so far southwards.

Pippin felt sleepy, but the lodging seemed cheerless, and he decided to go down and explore the City. He took a few morsels that he had saved to Shadowfax, and they were graciously accepted, though the horse seemed to have no lack. Then he walked on down many winding ways. People stared much as he passed. To his face men were gravely courteous, saluting him after the manner of Gondor with bowed head and hands upon the breast; but behind him he heard many calls, as those out of doors cried to others within to come and see the Prince of the Halflings, the companion of Mithrandir.

Many used some other tongue than the Common Speech, but it was not long before he learned at least what was meant by Ernil i Pheriannath and knew that his title had gone down before him into the City. In it he found the Old Guesthouse, a large building of grey weathered stone with two wings running back from the street, and between them a narrow greensward, behind which was the many-windowed house, fronted along its whole width by a pillared porch and a flight of steps down on to the grass.

Boys were playing among the pillars, the only children that Pippin had seen in Minas Tirith, and he stopped to look at them. Presently one of them caught sight of him, and with a shout he sprang across the grass and came into the street, followed by several others. There he stood in front of Pippin, looking him up and down. But how old are you, and what is your name? I am ten years already, and shall soon be five feet. I am taller than you. But then my father is a Guard, one of the tallest.

What is your father? I am nearly twenty-nine, so I pass you there; though I am but four feet, and not likely to grow any more, save sideways. As old as my uncle Iorlas. Where, let me tell you, I am considered uncommonly large and strong; and I have never allowed anyone to stand me on my head. So if it came to a trial and nothing else would serve, I might have to kill you. For when you are older, you will learn that folk are not always what they seem; and though you may have taken me for a soft stranger-lad and easy prey, let me warn you: I am not, I am a halfling, hard, bold, and wicked!

I am not a fighter. But it would be politer in any case for the challenger to say who he is. I know him and he sent me to find you. But no, the last wains have gone. I can tell you some tales of far countries in return. Bergil clapped his hands, and laughed with relief. We were soon going to the Gate to look on.

We will go now. Come with us and you will see. Bergil proved a good comrade, the best company Pippin had had since he parted from Merry, and soon they were laughing and talking gaily as they went about the streets, heedless of the many glances that men gave them. Before long they found themselves in a throng going towards the Great Gate.

There Pippin went up much in the esteem of Bergil, for when he spoke his name and the pass-word the guard saluted him and let him pass through; and what was more, he allowed him to take his companion with him. Now we shall see better. Beyond the Gate there was a crowd of men along the verge of the road and of the great paved space into which all the ways to Minas Tirith ran. All eyes were turned southwards, and soon a murmur rose: Pippin and Bergil edged their way forward to the front of the crowd, and waited.

Telling Tales

Horns sounded at some distance, and the noise of cheering rolled towards them like a gathering wind. Then there was a loud trumpet-blast, and all about them people were shouting. That is where my grandsire lives. Leading the line there came walking a big thick-limbed horse, and on it sat a man of wide shoulders and huge girth, but old and grey-bearded, yet mail-clad and black-helmed and bearing a long heavy spear.

Behind him marched proudly a dusty line of men, well-armed and bearing great battle-axes; grim-faced they were, and shorter and somewhat swarthier than any men that Pippin had yet seen in Gondor. Two hundreds, what are they? We hoped for ten times the number. That will be the new tidings of the black fleet.

They are sparing only a tithe of their strength. Still every little is a gain. And so the companies came and were hailed and cheered and passed through the Gate, men of the Outlands marching to defend the City of Gondor in a dark hour; but always too few, always less than hope looked for or need asked.

From the uplands of Morthond, the great Blackroot Vale, tall Duinhir with his sons, Duilin and Derufin, and five hundred bowmen. From the Anfalas, the Langstrand far away, a long line of men of many sorts, hunters and herdsmen and men of little villages, scantily equipped save for the household of Golasgil their lord. From Lamedon, a few grim hillmen without a captain. Fisher-folk of the Ethir, some hundred or more spared from the ships.

Hirluin the Fair of the Green Hills from Pinnath Gelin with three hundreds of gallant green-clad men. And last and proudest, Imrahil, Prince of Dol Amroth, kinsman of the Lord, with gilded banners bearing his token of the Ship and the Silver Swan, and a company of knights in full harness riding grey horses; and behind them seven hundreds of men at arms, tall as lords, grey-eyed, dark-haired, singing as they came.

And that was all, less than three thousands full told. No more would come. Their cries and the tramp of their feet passed into the City and died away. The onlookers stood silent for a while. Dust hung in the air, for the wind had died and the evening was heavy. Already the closing hour was drawing nigh, and the red sun had gone behind Mindolluin. Shadow came down on the City. Pippin looked up, and it seemed to him that the sky had grown ashen-grey, as if a vast dust and smoke hung above them, and light came dully through it. But in the West the dying sun had set all the fume on fire, and now Mindolluin stood black against a burning smoulder flecked with embers.

There goes the trumpet for the closing of the Gate. Lights sprang in many windows, and from the houses and wards of the men at arms along the walls there came the sound of song. Come again soon, I beg. Almost I wish now that there was no war, for we might have had some merry times. But maybe we will go thither together yet. They will never overcome our Lord, and my father is very valiant. They parted and Pippin hurried back towards the citadel. It seemed a long way, and he grew hot and very hungry; and night closed down swift and dark.

Not a star pricked the sky. He was late for the daymeal in the mess, and Beregond greeted him gladly, and sat him at his side to hear news of his son. After the meal Pippin stayed a while, and then took his leave, for a strange gloom was on him, and now he desired very much to see Gandalf again. And I can give you news of another order: I fear you will not be for the Third Company.

Still we may hope to meet again. Farewell and sleep in peace! The lodging was dark, save for a little lantern set on the table. Gandalf was not there. Gloom settled still more heavily on Pippin. He climbed on the bench and tried to peer out of a window, but it was like looking into a pool of ink. He got down and closed the shutter and went to bed. In the night he was wakened by a light, and he saw that Gandalf had come and was pacing to and fro in the room beyond the curtain of the alcove.

There were candles on the table and rolls of parchment. He heard the wizard sigh, and mutter: I am glad to see you back. It has been a long day. You should sleep, in a bed while you still may. At the sunrise I shall take you to the Lord Denethor again. No, when the summons comes, not at sunrise.

The Darkness has begun. There will be no dawn. Gandalf was gone, and the thudding hoofs of Shadowfax were lost in the night, when Merry came back to Aragorn. He had only a light bundle, for he had lost his pack at Parth Galen, and all he had was a few useful things he had picked up among the wreckage of Isengard. Hasufel was already saddled. Legolas and Gimli with their horse stood close by.

But we shall not go alone, as I thought. The king is now determined to set out at once. Since the coming of the winged shadow, he desires to return to the hills under cover of night. And there, I think, he will hear tidings of war, and the Riders of Rohan will go down to Minas Tirith. But for myself, and any that will go with me. I must go down also to Minas Tirith, but I do not yet see the road. An hour long prepared approaches. Though, of course, the king did say that I was to sit by him when he came to his house and tell him all about the Shire. But do not look for mirth at the ending.

Many hopes will wither in this bitter Spring. Soon all were ready to depart: Presently they were riding swiftly through the night. They had not long passed the mounds at the Fords of Isen, when a Rider galloped up from the rear of their line. As we crossed the fords I thought that I heard them. Now we are sure. They are overtaking us, riding hard. The Riders turned about and seized their spears. Merry felt more like unneeded baggage than ever, and he wondered, if there was a fight, what he should do.

He drew his sword and tightened his belt. The sinking moon was obscured by a great sailing cloud, but suddenly it rode out clear again. Then they all heard the sound of hoofs, and at the same moment they saw dark shapes coming swiftly on the path from the fords. The moonlight glinted here and there on the points of spears. Who rides in Rohan? The pursuers brought their steeds to a sudden stand. At ten paces the man stopped. He was tall, a dark standing shadow.

Then his clear voice rang out. None ride here save by his leave. And what is your haste? Giving his reins to Merry, he ran forward and embraced the newcomer. Merry breathed a sigh of relief. He sheathed his sword. But why they come, and how many they be, Halbarad shall tell us. We rode as swiftly as we might when your summons came. My thoughts have often turned to you, and seldom more than tonight; yet I have sent no word.

All such matters must wait. You find us riding in haste and danger. Ride with us now, if the king will give his leave. The days are short. If thou art in haste, remember the Paths of the Dead. And Aragorn said to Halbarad: But she also sends word to you: The days now are short. Either our hope cometh, or all hopes end. Therefore I send thee what I have made for thee. Bear it still for me a while! The night was old and the East grey when they rode up at last from Deeping-coomb and came back to the Hornburg.

There they were to lie and rest for a brief while and take counsel. Merry slept until he was roused by Legolas and Gimli. Come, Master Sluggard, and look at this place while you may! Come and see how it was! And there are caves, Merry, caves of wonder! Shall we visit them, Legolas, do you think?

I have given you my word to return hither with you, if a day of peace and freedom comes again. But it is now near to noon, and at that hour we eat, and then set out again, I hear. Merry got up and yawned. He missed Pippin, and felt that he was only a burden, while everybody was making plans for speed in a business that he did not fully understand. He went thither some hours ago, saying that he must take thought, and only his kinsman, Halbarad, went with him; but some dark doubt or care sits on him. He had now dressed, and he flung his grey cloak about his shoulders; and the three passed out together towards the ruined gate of the Burg.

Aragorn has need of his kindred. But whence this message came they are now in doubt. Gandalf sent it, I would guess. She read many hearts and desires. Now why did not we wish for some of our own kinsfolk, Legolas? Legolas stood before the gate and turned his bright eyes away north and east, and his fair face was troubled. The Death Down already stood there, black and tall and stony, and the great trampling and scoring of the grass by the Huorns could be plainly seen. The Dunlendings and many men of the garrison of the Burg were at work on the Dike or in the fields and about the battered walls behind; yet all seemed strangely quiet: Soon they turned back and went to the midday meal in the hall of the Burg.

The king was already there, and as soon as they entered he called for Merry and had a seat set for him at his side. And your friend is gone, who should also be here. But it may be long ere we sit, you and I, at the high table in Meduseld; there will be no time for feasting when I return thither. Eat and drink, and let us speak together while we may. And then you shall ride with me. He will bear you as swift as any horse by the roads that we shall take.

You shall be my esquire, if you will. Filled suddenly with love for this old man, he knelt on one knee, and took his hand and kissed it. But where is Aragorn? His place is empty and he has not eaten. The king with his guard and Merry at his side passed down from the gate of the Burg to where the Riders were assembling on the green. Many were already mounted. It would be a great company; for the king was leaving only a small garrison in the Burg, and all who could be spared were riding to the weapontake at Edoras.

A thousand spears had indeed already ridden away at night; but still there would be some five hundred more to go with the king, for the most part men from the fields and dales of Westfold. A little apart the Rangers sat, silent, in an ordered company, armed with spear and bow and sword. They were clad in cloaks of dark grey, and their hoods were cast now over helm and head. There was no gleam of stone or gold, nor any fair thing in all their gear and harness: The king mounted his horse, Snowmane, and Merry sat beside him on his pony: Stybba was his name.

Behind them walked Legolas and Gimli. But Merry had eyes only for Aragorn, so startling was the change that he saw in him, as if in one night many years had fallen on his head. Grim was his face, grey-hued and weary. I have laboured long in thought, and now I fear that I must change my purpose. The Moon will then be one night past his full, and the muster that the king commanded will be held the day after. More speed we cannot make, if the strength of Rohan is to be gathered. Aragorn was silent for a moment. But I see that it cannot now be hastened. Then, by our leave, lord, I must take new counsel for myself and my kindred.

We must ride our own road, and no longer in secret. For me the time of stealth has passed. I will ride east by the swiftest way, and I will take the Paths of the Dead. This parting grieves me, and my strength is lessened by it; but now I must take the mountain-roads and delay no longer. I leave you in good hands, better than we hoped when we hunted the orcs to Fangorn. Legolas and Gimli will still hunt with me, I hope; but we shall not forget you. He could find no more to say. He felt very small, and he was puzzled and depressed by all these gloomy words.

More than ever he missed the unquenchable cheerfulness of Pippin. The Riders were ready, and their horses were fidgeting; he wished they would start arid get it over. They rode over the Dike and down the Coomb, and then, turning swiftly eastwards, they took a path that skirted the foothills for a mile or so, until bending south it passed back among the hills and disappeared from view. Then he turned to Halbarad. Well, I must eat a little, and then we also must hasten away.

Come, Legolas and Gimli! I must speak with you as I eat. Together they went back into the Burg; yet for some time Aragorn sat silent at the table in the hall, and the others waited for him to speak. What has happened since we came back to this grim place in the grey morning? Even Gandalf feared that encounter.

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What do you fear that I should say to him? The right cannot be doubted. The strength was enough - barely. He drew a deep breath. I spoke no word to him, and in the end I wrenched the Stone to my own will. That alone he will find hard to endure. And he beheld me. Yes, Master Gimli, he saw me, but in other guise than you see me here. If that will aid him, then I have done ill. But I do not think so. To know that I lived and walked the earth was a blow to his heart, I deem; for he knew it not till now. Now in the very hour of his great designs the heir of Isildur and the Sword are revealed; for l showed the blade re-forged to him.

He is not so mighty yet that he is above fear; nay, doubt ever gnaws him. See my friends, when I had mastered the Stone, I learned many things. A grave peril I saw coming unlooked-for upon Gondor from the South that will draw off great strength from the defence of Minas Tirith. If it is not countered swiftly, I deem that the City will be lost ere ten days be gone. That is the Paths of the Dead. Can the living use such a road and not perish? And even if you pass that way, what will so few avail to counter the strokes of Mordor?

But in this dark hour the heir of Isildur may use it, if he dare. This is the word that the sons of Elrond bring to me from their father in Rivendell, wisest in lore: Bid Aragorn remember the words of the seer, and the Paths of the Dead. But I do not go gladly; only need drives me. Therefore, only of your free will would I have you come, for you will find both toil and great fear, and maybe worse.

But when Sauron returned and grew in might again, Isildur summoned the Men of the Mountains to fulfil their oath, and they would not: And if the West prove mightier than thy Black Master, this curse I lay upon thee and thy folk: For this war will last through years uncounted, and you shall be summoned once again ere the end.

And the terror of the Sleepless Dead lies about the Hill of Erech and all places where that people lingered. But that way I must go, since there are none living to help me. I seek the Paths of the Dead. Come with me who will! Legolas and Gimli made no answer, but they rose and followed Aragorn from the hall.

On the green there waited, still and silent, the hooded Rangers. Legolas and Gimli mounted. Aragorn sprang upon Roheryn. But at last she said: But tomorrow fairer housing shall be found for you. If we may lie here tonight and break our fast tomorrow, it will be enough. For I ride on an errand most urgent, and with the first light of morning we must go. She smiled on him and said: And she answered as one that likes not what is said: There is a road out of this valley, and that road I shall take.

Tomorrow I shall ride by the Paths of the Dead. Then she stared at him as one that is stricken, and her face blanched, and for long she spoke no more, while all sat silent. For that is all that you will find on that road. They do not suffer the living to pass. No other road will serve. I beg you to remain and ride with my brother; for then all our hearts will be gladdened, and our hope be the brighter. But those who follow me do so of their free will; and if they wish now to remain and ride with the Rohirrim, they may do so.

But I shall take the Paths of the Dead, alone, if needs be. Then they said no more, and they ate in silence; but her eyes were ever upon Aragorn, and the others saw that she was in great torment of mind. At length they arose, and took their leave of the Lady, and thanked her for her care, and went to their rest. But as Aragorn came to the booth where he was to lodge with Legolas and Gimli, and his companions had gone in.

He turned and saw her as a glimmer in the night, for she was clad in white; but her eyes were on fire. Were I to go where my heart dwells, far in the North I would now be wandering in the fair valley of Rivendell. For a while she was silent, as if pondering what this might mean. Then suddenly she laid her hand on his arm. For I am weary of skulking in the hills, and wish to face peril and battle. I have waited on faltering feet long enough. Since they falter no longer, it seems, may I not now spend my life as I will?

If you had not been chosen, then some marshal or captain would have been set in the same place, and he could not ride away from his charge, were he weary of it or no. Then there will be need of valour without renown, for none shall remember the deeds that are done in the last defence of your homes. Yet the deeds will not be less valiant because they are unpraised. But when the men have died in battle and honour, you have leave to be burned in the house, for the men will need it no more. But I am of the House of Eorl and not a serving-woman. I can ride and wield blade, and I do not fear either pain or death.

I would not see a thing that is high and excellent cast away needlessly. For you have no errand to the South. They go only because they would not be parted from thee - because they love thee. When the light of day was come into the sky but the sun was not yet risen above the high ridges in the East, Aragorn made ready to depart. She was clad as a Rider and girt with a sword. In her hand she bore a cup, and she set it to her lips and drank a little, wishing them good speed; and then she gave the cup to Aragorn, and he drank, and he said: I drink to the fortunes of your House, and of you, and of all your people.

Say to your brother: Then it seemed to Gimli and Legolas who were nearby that she wept, and in one so stern and proud that seemed the more grievous. But I count now every hour, indeed every minute. Then he kissed her hand, and sprang into the saddle, and rode away, and did not look back; and only those who knew him well and were near to him saw the pain that he bore. When they were lost to view, she turned, stumbling as one that is blind, and went back to her lodging. But none of her folk saw this parting, for they hid themselves in fear and would not come forth until the day was up, and the reckless strangers were gone.

Frodo sputters and gasps for air as Gollum pulls him out of the water. He is holding the Ring in the palm of his hand and stroking it, mesmerized. Suddenly he hears Gollum. He looks up to see Gollum crouching away from him, stroking the centre of his palm] our preciousss Master needs to keep up his strength. Cold be travellers far from home. A long time ago.

Images of the Ringwraiths come to him in flashes. Sam drags Frodo across to hide beneath some bramble bushes. Camera then shows him riding a Fell Beast, swooping down across the marsh lands. They will see us! SAM I thought they were dead! No, you cannot kill them.

They are calling for it. They are calling for the preciousss. The Black Gate is very close. Gimli fingers a dark stain on a leaf and brings it to his mouth. Something is out there. What do you see? He will put a spell on us. Aragorn drops his sword as it becomes red hot in his grasp. They shield their eyes with their hands from the bright light emanating from the White Wizard. They met someone they did not expect. Does that comfort you? The three are astounded.

Legolas and Gimli bow. With a final cry, the Balrog falls from the peak and lands, smoking, onto the icy mountainside. And I strayed out of thought and time. But it was not the end. I felt life in me again. His hair has turned white and wounds are completely healed. That's what they used to call me. That was my name. War has come to Rohan. We must ride to Edoras with all speed. Soon an answering neigh is heard and a white horse appears from the plain, answering the call.

The trees have grown wild and dangerous. Anger festers in their hearts. They will harm you if they can. There are too few of us now. Too few of us Ents left to manage them. From the right, an army of Easterling soldiers is marching to the Black Gate. My ol' Gaffer'd have a thing or two to say if he could see us now.

We cannot get past that. Two enormous cave trolls stretch and growl and then pull the mighty Gate open. The gate, it's opening! I can see a way down. Suddenly, the rock underneath him gives way and he falls. They move away from the troop to investigate. Frodo reaches Sam who is stuck in the scree. As the Easterlings move closer and closer, Frodo throws his Elvish cloak over himself and Sam. The soldiers are now directly in front of Sam, but their eyes see nothing but rock.

Frodo and Sam peer from underneath the cloak. The soldiers soon leave and after a moment, Frodo throws back the cloak and pulls Sam out. I doubt even these Elvish cloaks will hide us in there. He wants the preciousss. And the preciousss is wanting to go back to him. Gandalf, Aragorn, Legolas and Gimli stop as Edoras comes into view. Do not look for welcome here. She kisses his hand. What a tragedy for the king to lose his only son and heir. Who knows what you have spoken to the darkness. In bitter watches of the night, when all your life seems to shrink, the walls of your bower closing in about you, like a hutch to trammel some wild thing in.

Weeping, she looks away into the distance. A flag comes off its pole and is carried by the breeze. As Aragorn passes the entrance to Edoras, the flag floats down to land near him. Edoras is silent and somber. Everyone is dressed in black and staring at the newcomers in wary silence. Aragorn looks up at the hall and sees a lady in white standing on the steps.

He looks around at more somber people. The company climbs up the stairs to the hall and is met by guards. Aragon hands over his sword and knives. Legolas gives a little twirl to his knives before handing them over to the guards. Gimli hands over his axes reluctantly. You would not part an old man from his walking stick? A group of men starts to follow their steps with hostility. Lathspell spell I name him. Ill news is an ill guest. Keep your forked tongue behind you teeth. I have not passed through fire and death to bandy crooked words with a witless worm! I release you from the spell. Seeing her uncle threatened, she tries to go to him but is held back by Aragorn.

He lands landing hard on the floor of Orthanc, bleeding from a gash in his forehead. Clarity and recognition returns to his eyes. He wraps his fingers around it slowly and then draws it, gazing upon the shiny steel. Aragorn holds him back. Enough blood has been spilled on his account. Where is my son? It is released and spirals down to land among similar flowers, in front of a tomb. Ever has it grown on the tombs of my forebearers. Alas, that these evil days should be mine. The young perish and the old linger. That I should live to see the last days of my house.

His spirit will find its way to the halls of your fathers. He spots two children on horseback. The boy collapses and falls off the horse. Now the wildmen are moving through the Westfold, burning as they go. Rick, cot and tree. All the more potent for he is driven now by fear of Sauron. Ride out and meet him head on. Draw him away from your women and children. His men will return and fight for their king. I know what it is that you want of me.

But I will not bring further death to my people. I will not risk open war. Whether you would risk it or not. Do not burden yourselves with treasures. Take only what provisions you need. Gandalf, Aragorn, Legolas and Gimli walk towards the stables. They flee to the mountains when they should stand and fight. Who will defend them if not their king. What they will get is a massacre. I fear for the survival of Rohan.

He will need you before the end, Aragorn. The people of Rohan will need you. The defences HAVE to hold. With luck, my search will not be in vain. Look to my coming at first light on the fifth day. At dawn, look to the East. She unsheathes it and begins to practice. She swings around and is met by Aragorn, who blocks her parry. Those without swords may still die upon them. I fear neither death nor pain. To stay behind bars until use and old age accept them and all chance of valor has gone beyond recall or desire.

He will expect an attack on the city. It is a dangerous road to take through the mountains. They will be slow. They will have women and children with them. He walks through the depths of Isengard and gives orders to an Orc. In a pit behind him, ferocious growls are heard and shadows dances. He slips and falls, grasping at a slippery fish as he goes. Frodo and Sam follow behind. There's naught left in 'im but lies and deceit. It's the Ring he wants. It's all he cares about.

I don't know why I said that. SAM [Looks back at Frodo with tears in his eyes. You can't take your eyes off it. It's taken a hold of you, Mr Frodo. You have to fight it! The Ring was entrusted to me! Gollum is crouching in a corner by himself. Must have the precioussss. They will cheat you, hurt you, lie. We survived because of me! And away he goes, preciousss. He then picks up one of the rabbits and snaps the rabbit's back in front of Frodo.

Lovely big golden chips with a nice piece of fried fish Sam suddenly notices that Frodo is no longer in his sight. He moves to lie low beside Frodo. They are called to Mordor. The Dark One is gathering all armies to him. He will soon be ready. SAM Ready to do what? The last war that will cover all the world in shadow. Cloaked rangers are firing deadly arrows at the soldiers and Oliphaunts from behind bushes. One of the Oliphaunts starts trumpeting and stomping towards Frodo and Sam, swinging his huge trunk and tusks.

Faramir takes aim and shoots a soldier. He falls from the Oliphaunt and lands right behind Frodo and Sam, dead. A sword appears at his throat. And that dwarves just spring out of holes in the ground! Gimli falls off after a short distance and lands with a loud thump. She laughs as she brushes him off and looks back at Aragorn with the sun behind her and the wind in her hair. Aragorn could not sleep and smokes his pipe as he thinks of Arwen. He opens his eyes and sees Arwen before him, smiling down at him. This is a dream. Aragorn closes his eyes but for a while.

He looks over at Arwen. You told me once that this day would come. Boe bedich go Frodo. This is not the end You must go with Frodo. That is your path. My path is hidden from me. It is already laid before your feet. You cannot falter now. If you trust nothing else The woman who gave you that jewel. Let her take the ship into the west. Let her bear away her love for you to the Undying Lands. There it will be evergreen. She belongs with her people! You have a chance for another life.

It was a dream, Arwen, nothing more. Legolas watches them as they pass. He then draws his knife and kills the Orc. We are under attack!

Legolas gazes into the distance and sees many warg-riders coming fast towards them, kicking up dust trails as they go. You must do this I mean, charge forward! He draws another arrow and kills another. He quickly runs and mounts Arod with a smooth leap and joins in the fray with Gimli behind him on horseback. In the midst of fighting, Gimli falls off Arod. He turns to find a warg growling at him.

That one counts as mine! Gimli kills him quickly, twisting his neck, and it lands on him also. Gimli sniffs at the Orc and makes a face. He tries to lift both the warg and Orc off him. Just then, another warg comes upon him and bares its teeth, ready to strike. It dies, landing on Gimli and adding to the pile on top of him. Aragorn is knocked off Hasufel and attacked by Sharku. Aragorn tries to kill the warg rider but Sharku blocks his attempt and grabs Aragorn by the neck, while the latter is half-dragged by the warg. Aragorn tries to let go of the warg but finds his wrist tangled with the saddle straps.

He tries unsuccessfully to disentangle himself and is dragged closer and closer to the edge of a cliff at great speed. The warg runs right off the cliff and they both disappear over the edge. The battle is winding down as the Rohirrim finish off the last few wargs and Orcs. He takes it, runs to the edge of the cliff and looks down to see the great drop and rushing waters below, with no sign of Aragorn. Gimli comes to stand beside him. The wolves of Isengard will return. Cries of relief are heard as the refuge is within sight.

The gate is opened for the villagers. Many have already taken refuge within and are resting along the passage. So few of you have returned. We have paid for it with many lives. The latter looks down and then walks away, confirming her unasked question. Bar the gate, and set a watch on the surround. The women and children? Its outer wall is solid rock but for a small culvert at its base which is little more than a drain.

Saruman is pouring some dark dry substances into a vessel. How can fire undo stone? What kind of device could bring down the wall? He continues to hold the extinguished candle aloft as he gapes at the vast army below. A horn is sounded, announcing the appearance of Saruman.

A loud cheer is heard from the army. Saruman raises a hand. Its victory is at hand! March to Helms Deep! But now he has a mind of metal and wheels. He no longer cares for growing things. The war has started. He is washed ashore and dreams of Arwen. I chair gwannar na Valannor. Arwen, it is time.

The ships are leaving for Valinor. Why do you linger here when there is no hope? If Sauron is defeated, and Aragorn made king and all that you hope for comes true, you will still have to taste the bitterness of mortality. Whether by the sword or the slow decay of time, Aragorn will die. Mourners are walking around the altar, paying their final respects. No comfort to ease the pain of his passing. He will come to death, an image of the splendor of the kings of men in glory undimmed before the breaking of the world.

Arwen stands before the monument, veiled and in black. As nightfall in winter that comes without a star. Here you will dwell, bound to your grief, under the fading trees, until all the world is changed and the long years of your life are utterly spent. Elrond comes to sit beside his daughter and raises a hand to her cheek.

Do I not also have your love? You have my love, father [Elves, cloaked and carrying a lantern each, are setting off from Rivendell on their journey to the West. Elrond looks on as Arwen leaves with them. Arwen turns back to look at her father one last time before she departs. Elrond continues to stare after her with an expression of resigned sadness. He hears Galadriel speaking. The world has changed I feel it in the water, I feel it in the earth, I smell it in the air.

The power of the enemy is growing. Isengard has been unleashed. He senses the Ring is close. The strength of the Ringbearer is failing. In his heart, Frodo begins to understand. You have foreseen it. It is the risk we all took. In the gathering dark, the will of the Ring grows strong. It works hard now to find its way back into the hands of men.

Men, who are so easily seduced by its power. The young captain of Gondor has but to extend his hands, take the Ring for his own and the world will fall. It is close now, so close to achieving its goal. Frodo and Sam and being carries, blinded-folded into the cave. For Sauron will have dominion of all life on this Earth, even unto the ending of the world. The time of the Elves is over.

We then see Elrond in his library, looking at the painting of Isildur facing down Sauron with the broken blade of Narsil. Do we leave Middle-earth to its fate? Do we let them stand alone? Faramir is conferring with his man. They unroll a map. Faramir, Orcs are on the move. Sauron is marshalling an army. Easterlings and Southrons are passing through the Black Gate. More come every day. The fight will come to men on both fronts. Sauron will strike us soon. And he will strike hard. He knows now we do not have the strength to repel him. Sam and Frodo find themselves in a cave behind a waterfall, with Damrod sitting behind them on a rock constantly watching them.

Faramir comes up to them and sits. Now wait just a minute! Frodo Baggins is my name and this is Samwise Gamgee. He had an ill-favoured look. Two were my kin. A Dwarf there was also, and an Elf.

John Ronald Reuel Tolkien. The Lord Of The Rings: The Return of the King

And two men, Aragorn, son of Arathorn, and Boromir of Gondor. Suddenly someone comes up to him. Frodo awakens as Faramir stands before him. They come to the edge of the waterfall, overlooking the Forbidden Pool. Gollum emerges from the pool onto a rock. He holds a fish in his hand and starts singing, slapping the fish on the rock as he goes. I only wish [Whacks the fish on the rock] to catch a fish [whacks], so juicy sweet!

At the last moment, Frodo calls out. And I to him. He is our guide. Please, let me go down to him. Frodo descends to the Forbidden Pool and approaches Gollum who is gorging on the raw fish. Follow me, come on. Suddenly he looks up in alarm and is caught by Rangers. Frodo stares after them with a stricken expression as Faramir leads Gollum and his men away.

Back in the cave, Gollum is thrown down to the ground. Crying, he crawls into a corner and curls up into ball. I told you he was tricksy. I told you he was false. You can do it. Use the Ring, Mr. You were right, Sam. Here in the wild I have you. Two halflings and a host of men at my call.

Texte intégral

The Ring of power within my grasp. The Ring whispers and Frodo falls into a trance. Suddenly, he grabs the Ring in his hand and jerks himself away. To the mountain of fire. Just then Damrod enters. They call for reinforcements. Will you not help him? The Ring will go to Gondor. On the way, he sees an enormous Uruk-hai army marching with great speed. Get out of the way. As Aragorn makes his way in, he runs into Legolas who stands waiting. Aragorn looks at the Evenstar and claps Legolas on the shoulder.

They will be here by nightfall. No army has ever breached the Deeping Wall or set foot inside the Hornburg. Their armor is thick and their shields broad. I know how to defend my own keep. Crops can be resown; homes rebuilt. Within these walls, we will outlast them. They come to destroy its people. Down to the last child. Look at my men. Their courage hangs by a thread. If this is to be our end, then I would have them make such an end as to be worthy of remembrance. You must call for aid. We are not so lucky in our friends as you. The old alliances are dead. Where was Gondor when the Westfold fell?

Where was Gondor when our enemies closed in around us? War is upon us! He comes to a clearing and stops. But now something is about to happen that has not happened for an age They see many more Ents like Treebeard gathering. Now we must decide if the Ents will go to war. Move to the caves! The women and children say their tearful and reluctant farewells as their fathers, husbands and sons are led away by soldiers.

In the armoury, weapons are being distributed. Aragorn picks up a battered sword, looks at it and tosses it back.