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User talk:Headrock

2025-08-04T05:27:07Z

Headrock: /* AI / LLM Usage */ Reply

'''{{PAGENAME}}, welcome!'''

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I hope you enjoy editing here and we look forward to your future edits. By the way, you can sign your name on Talk and vote pages using three tildes, like this: ~<nowiki>~~</nowiki>. Four tildes (~~<nowiki>~~</nowiki>) produces your name and the current date. If you have any questions, see the [[Help:Contents|help pages]], add a question to the [[Forums:Council|Council forums]] or ask me on [[User talk:Hyarion|my talk page]]. Keep up the great work! — [[User:Hyarion|Hyarion]]

==Chapter Summaries==

Hello [[User:Headrock|Headrock]],

Great work on updating the chapter summaries - you have managed to do a lot in a small amount of time! Thanks for contributing.

I see from your edit notes that you are conscious about the length of the summaries already but I do think they need to be trimmed down somehow. My personal feedback would be to not include so many quotes, to focus more on just the key events and also streamline your exposition.

For example:

{{blockquote|When Sam sees the inn, he becomes suspicious and recommends seeking out a Hobbit family to stay with. Frodo reminds him that Tom Bombadil had recommended the inn and spoke well of its proprietor, Barliman Butterbur. They hear cheerful songs and laughter from inside, which calms them down a little. The Hobbits take their ponies into the courtyard, where they encounter Barliman, a short, fat man with a reddish face. After introductions, Barliman seems to recall something related to four Hobbits, but can't remember what it was. He apologizes that the inn is quite busy, indicating that it is an unusual situation. Fortunately, the inn has a room available that is specifically designed for Hobbits. He calls his helpers to take care of the ponies, and invites the Hobbits to their room.}}

Could potentially be trimmed down to:

{{blockquote|The hobbits arrive at The Prancing Pony inn and meet its proprietor, Barliman Butterbur. He finds them a room suitable for hobbits and has their ponies taken to his stables.}}

<s>In addition to this, one thing you will need to amend is that these articles should be written from an "in-universe" perspective, so we should not be mentioning a narrator and everything should be written in past tense. You can check out the [[Tolkien_Gateway:Manual_of_Style|Manual of Style]] for all guidelines.</s> ''- incorrect. See update below.''

Finally please feel free to join the TG [http://discord.gg/ktX6fhU9FY Discord Server] where you can seek further feedback from others more knowledgeable than I.

Thank you and happy editing! [[User:JR Snow|JR Snow]] ([[User talk:JR Snow|talk]]) 12:10, 25 July 2023 (UTC)

:Yeah, I'm always too worried to leave out something which might actually be important. I do leave out Tolkien's many descriptions almost entirely, since such details are not really part of the narrative, and are sufficiently explained in the articles for each subject. I do, however, try to keep most character actions inside, as they can often explain or have a bearing on later occurrences in the same chapter or even later in the book. In the case of your example, you're right that it's probably not necessary to specifically "set up" the unease about the inn, since it doesn't "pay off" on its own, and other parts of the narrative reinforce it anyway. However, it is definitely necessary to mention that Butterbur can't remember what he was told about four Hobbits, since this comes up later in both this chapter and the following one. Similarly, the reminder that Tom Bombadil vouched for Butterbur should probably be left in, to reduce dependence on reading previous articles (the same reason why I often mention which Hobbits are present, rather than just saying "the [[Hobbits]]").
:Also, with only about 3 or 4 quotes per chapter, I don't think they're really that excessive; I tend only to quote songs (if their contents have a direct bearing on events) and things that would be very clunky to explain with words. I'll try to tighten it up if I can, and you're welcome to catch me out on this if you still think they're excessive.
:'''''However,''''' I completely disagree that ''all'' exposition must be cut, for the same reason that I completely disagree with the final part of your message here: These are explicitly '''''not''''' in-universe articles! There is no such concept within the universe of Middle-earth called "A Short Cut to Mushrooms", for example; it is not a proper noun within the universe, and cannot be treated as such. The concept only exists in our world. These chapter articles are entirely ex-universal, reporting on the contents of a ''chapter'' in the ''novel'' "The Lord of the Rings". As such, not only should they always be in the present tense, but can freely refer to narration. ''They discuss a narrative.''
:If that contradicts the site's style-guide, then either the style-guide needs to make an exception or the chapter articles must be removed entirely. You'll note, for example, that the article [[The Fellowship of the Ring]] also - correctly - summarizes the contents of the book in the present tense. It is not a report of events occurring within a certain timeframe of the universe, but a report on the things written within a discrete portion of a real-world novel.
:In fact, that was the reason I started writing these in the first place. I only ended up adding so much information to each article because so much happened to be missing from the original summaries; the original motivation was to repair the tense alone.
:Since a ''narrative'' is what's being discussed, the decision to leave in things like set-up and payoff are in fact relevant, since they are part of the structure of the narrative. We're not just telling about the dry events (that is what articles about the concepts themselves should do), but about the contents of each chapter. This could actually even justify the addition of Tolkien's descriptions, but they are the least important and would bloat the articles unnecessarily, which is why I always leave them out.
:--[[User:Headrock|Headrock]] ([[User talk:Headrock|talk]]) 01:24, 26 July 2023 (UTC)
::I agree in that as far as I'm aware, book and chapter articles are ex-universe. [[User:Sage|Sage]] ([[User talk:Sage|talk]]) 03:37, 26 July 2023 (UTC)
::Thanks for taking the feedback - I do not want you to think that the work you have done is anything but worthwhile. The expansion of these summaries were sorely needed!
::I hope I am not stepping on your toes by offering suggestions on how to shorten them and I certainly would not propose removing ''all'' exposition. However, as I said earlier it is perhaps possible to ''"streamline"'' the exposition; but I will not edit your work as you are clearly a capable writer.
::My personal preference is shorter summaries with quotes only used where, as you say, they add something you can't convey with your own words. Others may have a different opinion.
::Upon reading your comments (and others on Discord) regarding in-or-ex-universe I think you (and @[[User:Sage|Sage]]) are right about this and I am wrong, although there does seem to be some inconsistency within TG on how we are writing summaries / synopses the Wikipedia standard is defined as requiring ''"[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Writing_better_articles#Tense| historical present tense]"'' (thanks @[[User:Mord|Mord]] for finding that). [[User:JR Snow|JR Snow]] ([[User talk:JR Snow|talk]]) 13:37, 26 July 2023 (UTC)
:::You're not stepping on my toes at all. This is a collaboration project and I would be wrong not to expect - and welcome - criticism. In fact, I wouldn't mind if you went ahead and just ''made'' changes wherever you thought you were necessary. The only thing I ask is you keep in mind ''why'' I kept things in; but that doesn't mean they actually ''have'' to be left in. That's basically the same thing I'm doing to Tolkien, come to think of it!
:::<hr>
:::On the topic of summaries and synopses, each serves a different purpose and has a place in ''different types of articles''; it can definitely be tricky to decide which one is best in each case. Going back to [[The Fellowship of the Ring]], it offers really short synopses that barely explain what's in each book - and that's perfectly fine for that article. Otherwise it would be a gigantic wall of text. However the article pages - if they are to exist at all - would contain almost no other information if the long-form summaries were removed, leaving "all the room in the world" for larger summaries, so to speak. It's fine that there's no consistency there.
:::As you can see, what I went for is more of a "recapitulation" than a synopsis. This is an informed decision, on the basis of two assumptions:
:::1) Readers will rarely (if ever) reach a specific chapter article looking for a synopsis; they'll have questions about particular things happening at that particular point in the book, and a synopsis by definition does not answer any but the most basic questions. Thus, you have to make sure to answer a wider variety of question they might have.
:::2) Readers will ''want'' to be drawn from these articles deeper into the Wiki, or at least should be encouraged to. A recapitulation lends itself greatly to putting in links to other concepts, since it tries to hit every single "linkable" concept brought up in each chapter -- skipping ''none'', if at all possible.
:::For example, if we go back to "[[A Short Cut to Mushrooms]]", the reader might come looking for this article with all sorts of questions that you have to anticipate in advance. Some of them are obvious ("What's the name of that farmer, again?"), but others might be more obscure ("What is the name of that song they sing on the way to the farm?", or "Did Maggot meet a Black Rider before the Hobbits got there? What was Maggot's reaction?"). A synopsis answers only the first question, while a recapitulation should also answer the others, preferably with a handy link straight to more information. The more information you cut out of it, the more you force the reader to wrack their brains on locating the more esoteric stuff they might be looking for - or go open the book themselves (thus defeating the purpose of the Wiki).
:::In fact, I've even happened to add some information that I couldn't find anywhere else on the Wiki (such as the fact that the Standing Stones next to the Barrow-wight's barrow seemed to disappear after the Hobbits were rescued). That sort of information might not be important to mention in any other article, but it is perfect to mention as part of the narrative.
:::It's definitely a balancing act, and I would ''not'' be averse to any discussion about what should and shouldn't be left in!
:::--[[User:Headrock|Headrock]] ([[User talk:Headrock|talk]]) 22:18, 26 July 2023 (UTC)
::::It is enjoyable to rediscover some strange details, that are easy to forget, especially if they don't fit well with the general impression we have about Middle-earth. Enigmas, like the disappearing stones, are one of this. Everyone remembers that Gandalf fell in Moria and fought the Balrog, but who knows/remembers that during this he met the "unnamed creatures"? I think we mustn't ignore or neglect those underdeveloped details because they are brush strokes that give different depth to the Legendarium. [[User:Sage|Sage]] ([[User talk:Sage|talk]]) 15:48, 27 July 2023 (UTC)
:::::LOL! I don't remember those!
:::::--[[User:Headrock|Headrock]] ([[User talk:Headrock|talk]]) 20:58, 27 July 2023 (UTC)

==AI / LLM Usage==

Hi Headrock! Thanks for your recent (and past) contributions to [[The Council of Elrond]]. I appreciate your transparency in mentioning the usage of a LLM for improving the article. We've had a policy against AI images on the wiki, but to my knowledge I don't think we've actually had a statement when it comes to LLM editing yet, so your contributions weren't breaking any rules.

As I'm sure you can manage, the power of AI/LLM's is a double edged sword when it comes to content websites like TG. At this point in time, the feedback we've received is that fans wish to view TG without AI generated images and content. I've gone ahead and updated our [[Tolkien_Gateway:Policy#Content_guidelines|policy]] and reverted your recent edits, but I'm definitely open to continuing the discussion if you have any suggestions or feedback as to how we can handle the topic. I can tell you spent time on the edits, but we also want to make sure we convey to our readers that our articles are purely written by humans. We appreciate your help! [[User:Hyarion|Hyarion]] ([[User talk:Hyarion|talk]]) 20:07, 3 August 2025 (UTC)

:The current article was originally written by me from scratch, and I was asked by several people to edit it for length, which I failed to do in 2023. Eventually I asked an LLM to take a look at it, and worked together with it for nearly 6 straight hours, deciding which elements should stay in and which should be removed, discussing the merits of each element in the context of the entire plot and theme of the book, and then generating and regenerating combinations of the original content until I was perfectly satisfied. Then it was another 4 hours of reading and re-reading the new summary to make sure nothing of importance had been lost, and correcting grammatical errors resulting from the LLM's unique speech pattern. At what point does this stop being "AI-generated content" and becomes my work? In fact, was it AI-generated content '''''at any point during the process?'''''
:I believe this is a knee-jerk reaction that completely misses the entire point of everything I was doing. Meanwhile, it looks like editors have been undoing a lot of the 100% manual work that I'd already put into fixing earlier chapter articles, and literally no one at all stepped in to stop them. Something's backwards here. [[User:Headrock|Headrock]] ([[User talk:Headrock|talk]]) 22:35, 3 August 2025 (UTC)
::I can only imagine how frustrating that must have felt to spend so much time on improving the article and to have your work undone, I'm sorry for that. You bring up a great point, when using AI to write or rewrite content, the lines become blurred as to what is AI generated and what is written by the author. The vast majority of feedback we've received from fans is they wish TG to remain AI-free. We certainly can understand your perspective though and will take that into account for future policy changes.
::I went through your most recent articles, [https://tolkiengateway.net/wiki/Many_Meetings], [https://tolkiengateway.net/wiki/Flight_to_the_Ford], [https://tolkiengateway.net/wiki/A_Knife_in_the_Dark], [https://tolkiengateway.net/wiki/At_the_Sign_of_the_Prancing_Pony], [https://tolkiengateway.net/wiki/Fog_on_the_Barrow-downs], [https://tolkiengateway.net/wiki/In_the_House_of_Tom_Bombadil] and I'm afraid I'm not seeing any undoing of your edits. Is there a particular article you had in mind? [[User:Hyarion|Hyarion]] ([[User talk:Hyarion|talk]]) 03:59, 4 August 2025 (UTC)
:::In that case, the Tolkien Gateway is doomed. There is almost a 100% certainty that it already contains AI-generated content which you would never recognize; and that amount will only increase over time. As it does, you'll have editors accusing each other of using AI, because you literally couldn't tell if they did or didn't. Read the article you've just erased and tell me which parts were written purely by the AI, and which were written purely by me. Had I not literally told you I used AI in the process, you never would have known. That way lies utter madness. It literally means that no matter what I write on this wiki from this point onward, I could "credibly" be accused of using AI again and lose even more hours of work, so there's no point in editing here anymore. [[User:Headrock|Headrock]] ([[User talk:Headrock|talk]]) 05:27, 4 August 2025 (UTC)

User talk:Headrock

2025-08-03T22:35:34Z

Headrock: /* AI / LLM Usage */ Reply

The Council of Elrond

2025-08-03T17:19:03Z

Headrock: /* Summary */ A lot of seemingly-minor but actually-important changes and clarifications, while attempting to limit the volume of text.

{{disambig-more|The Council of Elrond|[[The Council of Elrond (disambiguation)]]}}{{Quote|There is naught that you can do, other than to resist, with hope or without it. But you do not stand alone.}}{{chapter
| image=Peter Xavier Price - The Lord of Rivendell.jpg
| title=The Council of Elrond
| book=The Fellowship of the Ring
| number=14
| event=The [[Council of Elrond]] is held; [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] volunteers to take the [[The One Ring|

Ring]] to [[Mordor]].
| date=[[25 October]] {{TA|3018|n}}
| location=[[Rivendell]]
| perspective=[[Frodo Baggins]]
| previous=Many Meetings
| next=The Ring Goes South
}}

'''The Council of Elrond''' is the second chapter of the second book in ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.

In this chapter, the visitors to [[Rivendell]] assemble to discuss the matter of the [[One Ring]]. Each, in turn, tells news of their lands, recent events, and the reasons that had brought them to Rivendell. Finally [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] reveals the One Ring and its accompanying doom. [[Gandalf]] describes the capture of [[Gollum]], and his own imprisonment at [[Orthanc]]. A decision is made to take the One Ring to [[Mordor]], where it must be destroyed. Frodo volunteers to carry the Ring there, and when [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]] objects to him going alone, he is drafted to accompany Frodo on his task.

==Summary==

The next morning, [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] and [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]] take a walk in [[Rivendell]] and run into [[Gandalf]] and [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]]. Gandalf informs them that a [[Council of Elrond|great council]] is about to begin, to which Sam uninvitedly follows. Among the many attendants at the council, Frodo spots [[Elrond]], [[Glorfindel]], and [[Glóin]], as well as [[Strider]] wearing his worn travel clothes again.

Gandalf introduces Frodo to the attendants:

{{quote|Here, my friends, is the hobbit, Frodo son of Drogo. Few have ever come hither through greater peril or on an errand more urgent.|[[Gandalf]]}}

Gandalf points out several important figures: Glóin's son, [[Gimli]]; [[Erestor]], Elrond's chief counselor; [[Galdor]], a messenger from [[Cirdan the Shipwright]] of the [[Grey Havens]]; and [[Legolas]], son of [[Thranduil]], King of the Elves of [[Mirkwood]]. Frodo also notes a [[Men|Man]] sitting apart, wearing rich but travel-worn clothes, and holding a [[Great Horn|great horn]]. Gandalf identifies him as [[Boromir]], who had arrived that morning from the south, seeking counsel.

Glóin begins to speak, explaining that the [[Dwarves]] of [[Erebor]] have grown disquiet. Firstly, a large group, led by [[Balin]], [[Ori]] and [[Óin]], attempted to reconquer [[Moria]], a wonder of the Northern world that had been delved too deep, waking a "nameless fear". While news initially indicated success, the messages soon ceased.

According to Glóin, one year ago a messenger from [[Mordor]] arrived at Erebor, seeking to forge friendship between [[Sauron]] and the Dwarves. The messenger asked about "[[Hobbits]]" and a "little ring," stating:

{{quote|As a small token only of your friendship Sauron asks this: that you should find this thief, and get from him, willing or no, a little ring, the least of rings, that once he stole. It is but a trifle that Sauron fancies, and an earnest of your good will.|[[Sauron]]'s messenger to [[Erebor]]}}

In return, the messenger promised [[Dáin]], king of Erebor, three of the lost [[Seven Dwarf-rings|Dwarf-rings]], and guaranteed that Moria shall be theirs forever. Dáin became suspicious and refused an immediate answer, leading to repeated visits and veiled threats.

The Dwarves later learned that similar messengers had been sent to King [[Brand]] of [[Dale]]. The Dwarves and the [[Men of Dale]] now fear an attack from Mordor. Dáin has sent Glóin to Rivendell to warn Bilbo and ask for Elrond's counsel. Elrond commends Dáin's decision, but states that the Dwarves must resist, and that this trouble belongs to all of the western world.

Elrond begins to explain the ancient history of [[The One Ring]] in full. He recounts how the [[Rings of Power]] were forged by the Elves of [[Eregion]] during the [[Second Age]]: eager to refine their crafting skills, the Elves accepted Sauron's tutelage as a master smith. After helping [[Celebrimbor]] make sixteen magical rings, Sauron crafted the One Ring in secret, at [[Orodruin]], to control the others. Celebrimbor managed to hide [[Three Rings]] he had created without Sauron's aid, but a war ensued, destroying Eregion and shutting [[Doors of Durin|Moria's western gate]].

Elrond continues the story of the Second Age, speaking of the fall of [[Númenor]] and the arrival of [[Elendil]] and his sons, [[Isildur]] and [[Anárion]], who founded the kingdoms of [[Arnor]] and [[Gondor]]. Sauron assaulted their kingdoms, leading to the [[Last Alliance]] — a combined army of Elves and Men — formed by Elendil and [[Gil-Galad]] to defeat him.

Elrond, who was present, describes the [[Battle of Dagorlad]] and the [[Siege of Barad-dûr]], where Gil-Galad and Elendil were killed. Isildur then used [[Narsil]] to cut the Ring from Sauron's hand, destroying the Dark Lord and taking the Ring for himself.

Elrond personally witnessed this and, with Cirdan, tried to convince Isildur to destroy the Ring immediately; but Isildur refused, claiming it as compensation. Elrond then recounts Isildur's fatal ambush by Orcs at the [[Gladden Fields]], when the Ring sank into the [[Anduin|Great River Anduin]]. Isildur's squire, [[Ohtar]], survived the ambush and brought the broken shards of Narsil back to Rivendell to Isildur's heir, [[Valandil]].

Because the Ring was not destroyed, Sauron was not wholly defeated, and Elves and Men have grown estranged, with the race of Númenor decaying. The line of kings in Gondor eventually failed, and that land has been ruled by [[Steward of Gondor|Stewards]] for centuries.

Elrond describes the annals of Gondor, whose great citadel of [[Minas Anor]] ("Tower of the Sun") has stood as a bastion against Mordor. Its eastern city of Minas Ithil fell to evil, becoming [[Minas Morgul]], leading to constant war with Mordor. Minas Anor was renamed "Minas Tirith" ("Tower of the Guard"), and a few centuries later the Gondorian capital of [[Osgiliath]] had to be evacuated of its citizenry.

Boromir then rises, revealing Gondor as his homeland and informing the others of its current state. He claims that only by the valor of his countrymen in their constant battle against Mordor are the lands beyond Gondor kept safe and peaceful, though he warns that Gondor's defeat may not be far off.

In June, he reports, Mordor's forces invaded [[Ithilien]], a fair land of hills and woods on the borders of Mordor. They retook part of Osgiliath, and destroyed the bridge connecting its two sides. Boromir reports that Mordor is now allied with [[Easterlings]] and [[Haradrim]], and a great black horseman gives unnatural strength to all of their armies.

Boromir explains his arrival at Rivendell to seek counsel regarding a shared dream he and his brother had experienced. In this dream, a shadow came from the east, though pale light lingered in the west, and a voice cried:

{{quote|Seek for the Sword that was broken;    In Imladris it dwells; There shall be counsels taken    Stronger than Morgul-spells. There shall be shown a token    That Doom is near at hand, For Isildur's Bane shall waken    And the Halfling forth shall stand.|[[Boromir]]'s Dream}}

Boromir and his brother consulted their father, [[Denethor II]], the current Steward, who recognized "Imladris" as Elrond's home. Though his brother volunteered to go, Boromir took the perilous quest himself, despite his father's objections.

At this, Strider stands and places his broken sword on the table, identifying it as the sword from Boromir's dream. Elrond introduces Strider as [[Aragorn]], a direct descendant of Isildur.

Frodo immediately exclaims that the Ring should be given to Aragorn, but Aragorn rejects ownership of it. Elrond instead bids Frodo hold up the Ring for all to see, and despite a sudden reluctance, Frodo reveals it. Elrond introduces the Ring as "Isildur's Bane" – Sauron's Ruling Ring. Boromir is dismayed, fearing doom for his people. Nevertheless, he says this:

{{Quote|I was not sent to beg any boon, but to seek only the meaning of a riddle. Yet we are hard pressed, and the Sword of Elendil would be a help beyond our hope - if such a thing could indeed return out of the shadows of the past.|[[Boromir]]}}

Bilbo then recites the [[Riddle of Strider]] aloud, revealing that he wrote it after first meeting Aragorn. Aragorn explains his own background to Boromir: Narsil has been diligently passed down to him as Isildur's heir, and he is now the leader of the [[Rangers of the North]] - men whose thankless and secret work in protecting the northern lands often receives scorn from the very people they guard. Aragorn declares that he will come to Minas Tirith to aid in the coming battle.

Bilbo and Frodo then recount their respective experiences with the Ring. Bilbo apologizes for having lied to his friends about how he had found it.

Frodo is curious about Gandalf's absence during his journey from [[The Shire|the Shire]] to Rivendell. Galdor also asks how the [[Wise]] are so sure about the Ring's identity, and wonders about [[Saruman]]'s absence from the present council.

Gandalf first points out the obvious: only one ring remains that Sauron might seek; and Bilbo found his ring in the same year when Sauron (posing as "[[Sauron#The Necromancer|The Necromancer]]") was defeated at [[Dol Guldur]].

Gandalf then reveals Saruman's treachery: he had cunningly dismissed the idea that the Ring could ever be found, dissuading the White Council from investigating the matter, while he himself kept looking for it. He then delayed the White Council acting against Sauron, which allowed Sauron to prepare for the eventual attack and withdraw safely to Mordor once he was defeated. Gandalf admits that doubt kept growing in him, but he initially decided to let the matter of Gollum go to avoid stirring needless trouble. However, when spies began appearing near the Shire around the time of [[Bilbo's Farewell Party]], Gandalf consulted Aragorn, who convinced him to hunt for Gollum. They found traces of Gollum near Mordor, but could not find the creature himself.

Contemplating his next move, Gandalf recalled Saruman's description of the Ring:

{{quote|The Nine, the Seven, and the Three had each their proper gem. Not so the One. It was round and unadorned, as it were one of the lesser rings; but its maker set marks upon it that the skilled, maybe, could still see and read.|[[Saruman]]'s description of the [[One Ring]], according to [[Gandalf]]}}

Knowing that only Isildur could have provided this description, Gandalf went to Gondor to study its ancient lore. Denethor received him coldly, but allowed access. Gandalf found [[Scroll of Isildur|a scroll written by Isildur]], detailing the Ring's initial scorching and shrinking, and a fading inscription that Isildur suspected might reappear with heat. Gandalf later threw Bilbo's ring into fire, which confirmed this. He recites the part of the [[Ring Verse]] that appeared, causing a shadow to pass over Rivendell.

Aragorn recounts capturing Gollum near the [[Dead Marshes]] and delivering him to the [[Elves of Mirkwood|Wood Elves]]. Gandalf interrogated Gollum, confirming that his story matches Bilbo's, and discovering that the Ring had greatly extended Gollum's life.

Finally, Gandalf explains that Gollum had been searching for the Ring in Mordor, where he was captured, tortured, and revealed everything to Sauron, who now knows that the Ring is in Rivendell. Gandalf surmises that Gollum was released by Sauron to perform some unknown, nefarious task.

Legolas now interjects with alarming news: Gollum has escaped imprisonment in Mirkwood. He explains that the Elves, taking pity on Gollum after learning his story, had moved him out of the dungeons. Glóin grumbles that [[Thorin and Company|Thorin's Company]] did not receive such mercy, forcing Gandalf to interject to prevent a quarrel.

Legolas continues, describing Gollum's escape during a suspiciously-timed Orc attack. Gollum's guards were slain, and his tracks disappeared near Dol Guldur. Gandalf expresses frustration, but hopes that Gollum might now play a part that Sauron has not foreseen.

Gandalf then recounts his own disappearance. In June, he left Hobbiton and received news of Mordor's invasion of Ithilien. Hurrying east, he met fellow [[Wizard]] [[Radagast the Brown]], who reported Nazgûl disguised as black riders crossing the Great River and asking around for the "Shire". Radagast also told Gandalf that Saruman requests to see him. Gandalf, hoping Saruman had found a way to fend off the Nazgûl, rode to [[Isengard]], leaving a message for Frodo in [[Bree]].

Gandalf felt trepidation entering Isengard, a vast circle of rock with the lone tower [[Orthanc]] at its center. Saruman, wearing a ring on his finger and a robe of many colors (details that immediately aroused Gandalf's suspicions), greeted him coldly. Saruman refused Gandalf's pleas for aid, accusing him of hiding some secret in the Shire. Nevertheless, he offered Gandalf an opportunity:

{{quote|A new Power is rising. Against it the old allies and policies will not avail us at all. There is no hope left in Elves or dying Númenor. This then is one choice before you, before us. We may join with that Power. It would be wise, Gandalf. There is hope that way. Its victory is at hand; and there will be rich reward for those that aided it.|[[Saruman]]}}

He then revealed that he knew Gandalf was protecting the whereabouts of the One Ring.

Gandalf refused the offer, seeing Saruman and Sauron as two sides of the same coin. Gandalf was imprisoned at the Pinnacle of Orthanc, where he saw that Isengard had been filled with pits and forges, mustering an army of Orcs and Wolves. Frodo exclaims he had seen this in a dream.

Gandalf was eventually rescued by the [[Great Eagles|Great Eagle]] [[Gwaihir]], who had arrived to deliver news of the Nazgûl and Gollum's escape. He bore Gandalf away before Saruman could intervene. Gwaihir took him to the land of [[Rohan]], where Saruman's lies had already taken hold, resulting in a cold reception. Nevertheless, King [[Theoden]] offered him a choice of horse from his stable. Gandalf chose [[Shadowfax]], chief of the legendary [[Mearas]], an unridden horse who was faster even than Nazgûl steeds. Shadowfax carried him from Rohan all the way to the Shire by the time Frodo reached the [[Barrow-downs]].

In [[Hobbiton]], Gandalf learned that Frodo had left and Black Riders had come. He found [[Buckland]] in uproar after the Nazgûl attack on [[Crickhollow|Crickhollow.]] He tracked two Nazgûl to Bree, where he learned of the Nazgûl's tactical error in splitting forces to attack Crickhollow and Bree simultaneously, which allowed the Hobbits to escape with Strider.

Gandalf finally intercepted the Nazgûl at Weathertop, battling through the night before escaping north, drawing some of them away from Frodo's company. He navigated towards Rivendell, releasing Shadowfax, who would return if called, and reached Rivendell three days before Frodo. Elrond expresses his dismay at the fall of Saruman, their trusted counsel, but marvels at the resilience of the Hobbits.

The conversation finally turns to the matter of the Ring's fate. Gandalf explains that while [[Tom Bombadil]] might agree to take the Ring, he would not understand its importance; might lose it; and could not stand against Sauron's full power. Glorfindel adds that taking the Ring to Bombadil in secret would also be impossible.

Glorfindel concludes that only two options remain: sending the Ring west over the sea, or destroying it immediately. Elrond counters both: the Ring cannot be destroyed by any means they possess, and the people of [[Valinor]] would not accept it, as it is an evil belonging to [[Middle-earth]] that its people must solve for themselves.

Glorfindel then suggests throwing the Ring into the sea, subverting Saruman's lie about its fate. Gandalf counters that vile creatures might retrieve it, or shifts in the sea might bring it back, stressing the need for a permanent end. Galdor agrees, adding that getting it to the sea would be difficult with the Enemy watching; and the Nazgûl would soon be returning to chase after it on faster steeds. Boromir defends his people's ability to block the Nazgûl's route through Gondor, but Galdor notes that they might bypass Gondor entirely. Elrond agrees that western roads must be shunned; the Ring must go east, to Mordor, to be destroyed where it was made.

Boromir interjects, offering to use the Ring as a weapon, as Saruman had planned to do. Elrond states that the Ring cannot be used, since it is wholly evil and obeys only the Dark Lord; any wielder, even the Wise, would be corrupted and simply replace Sauron. He cites Saruman's fall as a poignant example. Both Elrond and Gandalf refuse to take or hide the Ring.

Boromir is dismayed but expresses hope that the Sword that was Broken might aid Gondor, and that others will fight valiantly. Glóin suggests pooling efforts and using the other Rings of Power. Gandalf reports that [[Ring of Thrór|Thrór's ring]] was already taken by Sauron from [[Thráin]] during his torture at Dol Guldul. Glóin asks about the Elven-rings, but Elrond dismisses their usefulness as weapons, since they were made without Sauron's interference. He laments their creation. Glóin asks what would happen if the One Ring was destroyed. Elrond responds that no one knows, but hopes that the Three would become free, though they might lose their power. Glorfindel is willing to take that risk.

The conversation returns to destroying the Ring. Erestor calls any attempt to reach Orodruin a "folly". Gandalf retorts that this might be an advantage, as Sauron only understands desire for power and won't foresee a desire to destroy it. Elrond agrees:

{{quote|This quest may be attempted by the weak with as much hope as the strong. Yet such is oft the course of deeds that move the wheels of the world: small hands do them because they must, while the eyes of the great are elsewhere.|[[Elrond]]}}

Bilbo volunteers to take the Ring, lamenting that he might not get to write his book's ending. Boromir is amused at Bilbo's offer, but quickly realizes that the others greatly respected it. Gandalf thanks Bilbo but says that his part in the story ended when he passed on the Ring, except to record the events in a sequel book when the chosen questers eventually return.

Bilbo asks who those questers will be. Silence falls on the council as they ponder the question. Frodo slowly comes to the realization that the course of events he had dreaded is now inevitable. With great difficulty, he finally speaks:

{{quote|I will take the Ring, though I do not know the way.|[[Frodo Baggins]]}}

Realizing the implications, Elrond tells Frodo that the task may have been appointed for him, and that he might be the only one able to find the way. He tells Frodo that the decision must be his alone, voluntarily, but that if he chose to go he would be counted among the greatest [[Elf-friends]].

Suddenly, Sam leaps up from his hiding place, protesting that Frodo must not be sent on this quest alone. Elrond affirms:

{{quote|No indeed! You at least shall go with him. It is hardly possible to separate you from him, even when he is summoned to a secret council and you are not.|[[Elrond]]}}

At this, Sam sinks to the floor in embarrassment.

==Composition==
Early drafts of the chapter probably were completed near the end of [[1939]]); in that version, the original Fellowship consisted of Gandalf, Boromir, and five Hobbits including "[[Trotter|Peregrin Boffin]]".<ref>{{CG|CG}}, p. xxii</ref>

Later drafts of the chapter were reworked around [[1940]]-[[1941]], with at least three new versions. New material included Aragorn as the [[Heir of Elendil]] and related additions; but since narration was too long,background information was removed to the [[Appendices]] and to another text called ''[[Of the Rings of Power and the Third Age]]''.<ref>{{CG|CG}}, p. xxiii</ref>
{{references}}
[[Category:The Fellowship of the Ring chapters|Council of Elrond]]
[[fi:Elrondin neuvonpito (TSH)]]

The Council of Elrond

2025-08-03T15:55:42Z

Headrock: /* Summary */ AI has suggested further changes.

{{disambig-more|The Council of Elrond|[[The Council of Elrond (disambiguation)]]}}{{Quote|There is naught that you can do, other than to resist, with hope or without it. But you do not stand alone.}}{{chapter
| image=Peter Xavier Price - The Lord of Rivendell.jpg
| title=The Council of Elrond
| book=The Fellowship of the Ring
| number=14
| event=The [[Council of Elrond]] is held; [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] volunteers to take the [[The One Ring|

Ring]] to [[Mordor]].
| date=[[25 October]] {{TA|3018|n}}
| location=[[Rivendell]]
| perspective=[[Frodo Baggins]]
| previous=Many Meetings
| next=The Ring Goes South
}}

'''The Council of Elrond''' is the second chapter of the second book in ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.

In this chapter, the visitors to [[Rivendell]] assemble to discuss the matter of the [[One Ring]]. Each, in turn, tells news of their lands, recent events, and the reasons that had brought them to Rivendell. Finally [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] reveals the One Ring and its accompanying doom. [[Gandalf]] describes the capture of [[Gollum]], and his own imprisonment at [[Orthanc]]. A decision is made to take the One Ring to [[Mordor]], where it must be destroyed. Frodo volunteers to carry the Ring there, and when [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]] objects to him going alone, he is drafted to accompany Frodo on his task.

==Summary==

The next morning, [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] and [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]] take a walk in [[Rivendell]] and run into [[Gandalf]] and [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]]. Gandalf informs them that a [[Council of Elrond|great council]] is about to begin, to which Sam uninvitedly follows. Among the many attendants at the council, Frodo spots [[Elrond]], [[Glorfindel]], and [[Glóin]], as well as [[Strider]] wearing his worn travel clothes again.

Gandalf introduces Frodo to the attendants:

{{quote|Here, my friends, is the hobbit, Frodo son of Drogo. Few have ever come hither through greater peril or on an errand more urgent.|[[Gandalf]]}}

Gandalf points out several important figures: Glóin's son, [[Gimli]]; [[Erestor]], Elrond's chief counselor; [[Galdor]], a messenger from [[Cirdan the Shipwright]] of the [[Grey Havens]]; and [[Legolas]], son of [[Thranduil]], King of the Elves of [[Mirkwood]]. Frodo also notes a [[Men|Man]] sitting apart, wearing rich but travel-worn clothes, and holding a [[Great Horn|great horn]]. Gandalf identifies him as [[Boromir]], who had arrived that morning from the south, seeking counsel.

Glóin begins to speak, explaining that the [[Dwarves]] of [[Erebor]] have grown disquiet. Firstly, a large group, led by [[Balin]], [[Ori]] and [[Óin]], attempted to reconquer [[Moria]], a wonder of the Northern world that had been delved too deep, waking a "nameless fear". While news initially indicated success, the messages soon ceased.

According to Glóin, one year ago a messenger from [[Mordor]] arrived at Erebor, seeking to forge friendship between [[Sauron]] and the Dwarves. The messenger asked about "[[Hobbits]]" and a "little ring," stating:

{{quote|As a small token only of your friendship Sauron asks this: that you should find this thief, and get from him, willing or no, a little ring, the least of rings, that once he stole. It is but a trifle that Sauron fancies, and an earnest of your good will.|[[Sauron]]'s messenger to [[Erebor]]}}

In return, the messenger promised [[Dáin]], king of Erebor, three of the lost [[Seven Dwarf-rings|Dwarf-rings]] and guaranteed Moria to them forever. Dáin became suspicious and refused an immediate answer, leading to repeated visits and veiled threats.

The Dwarves later learned that similar messengers had been sent to King [[Brand]] of [[Dale]]. The Dwarves and the [[Men of Dale]] now fear an attack from Mordor. Dáin has sent Glóin to Rivendell to warn Bilbo and ask for Elrond's counsel. Elrond commends Dáin's decision, but states that the Dwarves must resist, and that this trouble belongs to all of the western world.

Elrond begins to explain the ancient history of [[The One Ring]] in full. He recounts how the [[Rings of Power]] were forged by the Elves of [[Eregion]] during the [[Second Age]]. Eager for knowledge, the Elves were susceptible to Sauron's charms; Instead, the Dark Lord learned their arts and crafted the One Ring in secret at [[Orodruin]], to control the others. [[Celebrimbor]] hid the [[Three Rings]] he had created without Sauron's aid, but a war ensued, destroying Eregion and shutting [[Doors of Durin|Moria's western gate]].

Elrond continues the story of the Second Age, speaking of the fall of [[Númenor]] and the arrival of [[Elendil]] and his sons, [[Isildur]] and [[Anárion]], who founded the kingdoms of [[Arnor]] and [[Gondor]]. Sauron assaulted their kingdoms, leading to the [[Last Alliance]] — a combined army of Elves and Men — formed by Elendil and [[Gil-Galad]] to defeat him.

Elrond, who was present, describes the [[Battle of Dagorlad]] and the [[Siege of Barad-dûr]], where Gil-Galad and Elendil were killed. Isildur then used [[Narsil]] to cut the Ring from Sauron's hand, destroying the Dark Lord and taking the Ring for himself.

Elrond personally witnessed this and, with Cirdan, tried to convince Isildur to destroy the Ring immediately, but Isildur refused, claiming it as compensation. Elrond then recounts Isildur's fatal ambush by Orcs at the [[Gladden Fields]], when the Ring sank into the [[Anduin|Great River Anduin]]. Isildur's squire, [[Ohtar]], survived the ambush and brought the broken shards of Narsil back to Rivendell to Isildur's heir, [[Valandil]].

Because the Ring was not destroyed, Sauron was not wholly defeated, and Elves and Men have grown estranged, with the race of Númenor decaying. The line of kings in Gondor eventually failed, and the land has been ruled by [[Steward of Gondor|Stewards]] for centuries.

Elrond describes the annals of Gondor, whose great citadel of [[Minas Anor]], the Tower of the Sun, has stood as a bastion against Mordor. Its eastern city of Minas Ithil fell to evil, becoming [[Minas Morgul]], leading to constant war with Mordor. Minas Anor was renamed "Minas Tirith", the Tower of the Guard, and a few centuries later the Gondorian capital of [[Osgiliath]] had to be evacuated of its citizenry.

Boromir then rises, revealing Gondor as his homeland and informing the others of its current state. He claims that only by the valor of his countrymen in their constant battle against Mordor are the lands beyond Gondor kept safe and peaceful, though he warns that Gondor's defeat may not be far off.

In June, he reports, Mordor's forces invaded [[Ithilien]], a fair land of hills and woods on the borders of Mordor. They retook part of Osgiliath, and destroyed the bridge connecting its two sides. Boromir reports that Mordor is now allied with [[Easterlings]] and [[Haradrim]], and a great black horseman gives unnatural strength to all of their armies.

Boromir explains his arrival at Rivendell to seek counsel regarding a shared dream he and his brother had experienced. In this dream, a shadow came from the east, though pale light lingered in the west, and a voice cried:

{{quote|Seek for the Sword that was broken;    In Imladris it dwells; There shall be counsels taken    Stronger than Morgul-spells. There shall be shown a token    That Doom is near at hand, For Isildur's Bane shall waken    And the Halfling forth shall stand.|[[Boromir]]'s Dream}}

Boromir and his brother consulted their father, [[Denethor II]], the current Steward, who recognized "Imladris" as Elrond's home. Though his brother volunteered to go, Boromir took the perilous quest himself, despite his father's objections.

At this, Strider stands and places his broken sword on the table, identifying it as the sword from Boromir's dream. Elrond introduces Strider as [[Aragorn]], a direct descendant of Isildur.

Frodo immediately exclaims that the Ring should be given to Aragorn, but Aragorn rejects ownership of it. Elrond instead bids Frodo hold up the Ring for all to see, and despite a sudden reluctance, Frodo reveals it. Elrond introduces the Ring as "Isildur's Bane" – Sauron's Ruling Ring. Boromir is dismayed, fearing doom for his people. Nevertheless, he says this:

{{Quote|I was not sent to beg any boon, but to seek only the meaning of a riddle. Yet we are hard pressed, and the Sword of Elendil would be a help beyond our hope - if such a thing could indeed return out of the shadows of the past.|[[Boromir]]}}

Bilbo then recites the [[Riddle of Strider]] aloud, revealing that he wrote it after first meeting Aragorn. Aragorn explains his own background to Boromir: Narsil has been diligently passed down to him as Isildur's heir. He describes the [[Dúnedain]]'s thankless and secret work in protecting the northern lands, often receiving scorn from the very people they guard. Aragorn declares that he will come to Minas Tirith to aid in the coming battle.

Bilbo and Frodo then recount their respective experiences with the Ring. Bilbo apologizes for having lied to his friends about how he had found it.

Frodo is curious about Gandalf's absence during his journey from [[The Shire|the Shire]] to Rivendell. Galdor also asks how the [[Wise]] are so sure about the Ring's identity, and wonders about [[Saruman]]'s absence.

Gandalf first points out the obvious: only one ring remains that Sauron might seek; and Bilbo found his ring in the same year when Sauron (posing as "[[Sauron#The Necromancer|The Necromancer]]") was defeated at [[Dol Guldur]].

Gandalf then reveals Saruman's treachery: he had cunningly rejected the idea that the Ring could ever be found, and delayed the White Council from acting against Sauron, allowing Sauron to prepare for the eventual attack and withdraw safely to Mordor once defeated. Gandalf admits that doubt kept growing in him, but he initially decided to let the matter of Gollum go to avoid stirring needless trouble. However, when spies began appearing near the Shire around the time of [[Bilbo's Farewell Party]], Gandalf consulted Aragorn, who convinced him to hunt for Gollum. They found traces of Gollum near Mordor, but could not find him.

Gandalf was reminded of Saruman's description:

{{quote|The Nine, the Seven, and the Three had each their proper gem. Not so the One. It was round and unadorned, as it were one of the lesser rings; but its maker set marks upon it that the skilled, maybe, could still see and read.|[[Saruman]]'s description of the [[One Ring]], according to [[Gandalf]]}}

Knowing only Isildur could have provided this description of the One Ring, Gandalf went to Gondor to study its ancient lore. Denethor received him coldly but allowed access. Gandalf found [[Scroll of Isildur|a scroll written by Isildur]], detailing the Ring's initial scorching and shrinking, and the fading inscription that Isildur suspected might reappear with heat. Gandalf later threw Bilbo's ring into fire to confirm this. He then recites the part of the [[Ring Verse]] that appeared, causing a shadow to pass over Rivendell.

Aragorn recounts capturing Gollum near the [[Dead Marshes]] and delivering him to the [[Elves of Mirkwood|Wood Elves]]. Gandalf interrogated Gollum, confirming that his story matches Bilbo's, and discovering that the Ring had greatly extended Gollum's life.

Finally, Gandalf explains that Gollum had been searching for the Ring in Mordor, where he was captured, tortured, and revealed everything to Sauron, who now knows that the Ring is in Rivendell. Gandalf surmises that Gollum was released by Sauron to perform some unknown, nefarious task.

Legolas now interjects with alarming news: Gollum has escaped imprisonment in Mirkwood. He explains that the Elves, taking pity on Gollum after learning his story, had moved him out of the dungeons. Glóin grumbles that [[Thorin and Company|Thorin's Company]] did not receive such mercy, forcing Gandalf to interject to prevent a quarrel.

Legolas continues, describing Gollum's escape during a suspiciously-timed Orc attack. Gollum's guards were slain, and his tracks disappeared near Dol Guldur. Gandalf expresses frustration, but hopes that Gollum might now play a part that Sauron has not foreseen.

Gandalf then recounts his own disappearance. In June, he left Hobbiton and received news of Mordor's invasion of Ithilien. Hurrying east, he met fellow [[Wizard]] [[Radagast the Brown]], who reported Nazgûl disguised as black riders crossing the Great River and asking around for the "Shire". Radagast also told Gandalf that Saruman requests to see him. Gandalf, hoping Saruman had found a way to fend off the Nazgûl, rode to [[Isengard]], leaving a message for Frodo in [[Bree]].

Gandalf felt trepidation entering Isengard, a vast circle of rock with the lone tower [[Orthanc]] at its center. Saruman, wearing a ring on his finger and a robe of many colors (details that immediately aroused Gandalf's suspicions), greeted him coldly. Saruman refused Gandalf's pleas for aid, accusing him of hiding some secret in the Shire. Nevertheless, he offered Gandalf an opportunity:

{{quote|A new Power is rising. Against it the old allies and policies will not avail us at all. There is no hope left in Elves or dying Númenor. This then is one choice before you, before us. We may join with that Power. It would be wise, Gandalf. There is hope that way. Its victory is at hand; and there will be rich reward for those that aided it.|[[Saruman]]}}

He promised rich rewards, and revealed he knew that Gandalf was protecting the One Ring.

Gandalf refused the offer, seeing Saruman and Sauron as two sides of the same coin. Gandalf was imprisoned at the Pinnacle of Orthanc, where he saw that Isengard had been filled with pits and forges, mustering an army of Orcs and Wolves. Frodo exclaims he had seen this in a dream.

Gandalf was eventually rescued by the [[Great Eagles|Great Eagle]] [[Gwaihir]], who came to deliver news of the Nazgûl and Gollum's escape. He bore Gandalf away before Saruman could intervene. Gwaihir took him to the land of [[Rohan]], where Saruman's lies had already taken hold, resulting in a cold reception. Nevertheless, King [[Theoden]] offered him a choice of horse from his stable. Gandalf chose [[Shadowfax]], chief of the legendary [[Mearas]], an unridden horse who was faster even than Nazgûl steeds. Shadowfax carried him from Rohan all the way to the Shire by the time Frodo reached the [[Barrow-downs]].

Gandalf reached [[Hobbiton]], learning that Frodo had left and Black Riders had come. He found [[Buckland]] in uproar after the Nazgûl attack on [[Crickhollow]]. He tracked two Nazgûl to Bree, where [[Barliman Butterbur]] revealed that the Hobbits were with Strider. He also learned of the Nazgûl's tactical error in splitting forces to attack Crickhollow and Bree simultaneously, which allowed the Hobbits to escape.

Gandalf finally intercepted the Nazgûl at Weathertop, battling through the night before escaping north, drawing four riders away. He navigated towards Rivendell, releasing Shadowfax, who would return if called. He reached Rivendell three days before Frodo. Elrond expresses his dismay at the fall of Saruman, their trusted counsel, but marvels at the resilience of the Hobbits.

The conversation now turns to the matter of the Ring's fate. Gandalf explains that while [[Tom Bombadil]] might agree to take the Ring, he would not understand its importance, might lose it, and could not stand against Sauron's full power. Glorfindel adds that taking the Ring to Bombadil in secret would also be impossible.

Glorfindel concludes that only two options remain: sending the Ring west over the sea, or destroying it immediately. Elrond counters both: the Ring cannot be destroyed by any means they possess, and the people of [[Valinor]] would not accept it, as it is an evil belonging to [[Middle-Earth]] that its people must solve for themselves.

Glorfindel then suggests throwing the Ring into the sea, subverting Saruman's lie. Gandalf counters that vile creatures might retrieve it, or shifts in the sea might bring it back, stressing the need for a permanent end. Galdor agrees, adding that getting it to the sea would be difficult with the Enemy watching, and the Nazgûl would soon be returning to chase it on faster beasts. Boromir defends his people's ability to block the Nazgûl's route from Mordor, but Galdor notes that they might bypass Gondor entirely. Elrond agrees that western roads must be shunned; the Ring must go east, to Mordor, to be destroyed where it was made.

Boromir interjects, offering to use the Ring as a weapon, as Saruman had planned. Elrond states that the Ring cannot be used, since it is wholly evil and obeys only the Dark Lord; any wielder, even the Wise, would be corrupted and simply replace Sauron. He cites Saruman's fall as a poignant example. Both Elrond and Gandalf refuse to take or hide the Ring.

Boromir is dismayed but expresses hope that the Sword that was Broken might aid Gondor, and that others will fight valiantly. Glóin suggests pooling efforts and using the other Rings of Power. Gandalf reports that [[Ring of Thrór|Thrór's ring]] was already taken by Sauron from [[Thráin]] during his torture at Dol Guldul. Glóin asks about the Elven-rings, but Elrond dismisses their usefulness as weapons, since they were made without Sauron's interference. He laments their creation. Glóin asks what would happen if the One Ring was destroyed. Elrond responds that no one knows, but hopes that the Three would become free, though they might lose their power. Glorfindel is willing to take that risk.

The conversation returns to destroying the Ring. Erestor calls any attempt to reach Orodruin a "folly". Gandalf retorts that this might be an advantage, as Sauron only understands desire for power and won't foresee a desire to destroy it. Elrond agrees:

{{quote|This quest may be attempted by the weak with as much hope as the strong. Yet such is oft the course of deeds that move the wheels of the world: small hands do them because they must, while the eyes of the great are elsewhere.|[[Elrond]]}}

Bilbo volunteers to take the Ring, lamenting that he might not get to write his book's ending. Boromir is amused at Bilbo's offer, but quickly realizes that the others greatly respected it. Gandalf thanks Bilbo but says that his part in the story ended when he passed on the Ring, except to record the events in a sequel book when the chosen questers eventually return.

Bilbo asks who those questers will be. Silence falls on the council as they ponder the question. Frodo slowly comes to the realization that the course of events he had dreaded is now inevitable. With great difficulty, he finally speaks:

{{quote|I will take the Ring, though I do not know the way.|[[Frodo Baggins]]}}

Realizing the implications, Elrond tells Frodo that the task may have been appointed for him, and that he might be the only one able to find the way. He tells Frodo that the decision must be his alone, voluntarily, but that if he chose to go he would be counted among the greatest [[Elf-friends]].

Suddenly, Sam leaps up from his hiding place, protesting that Frodo must not be sent on this quest alone. Elrond affirms:

{{quote|No indeed! You at least shall go with him. It is hardly possible to separate you from him, even when he is summoned to a secret council and you are not.|[[Elrond]]}}

At this, Sam sinks to the floor in embarrassment.

==Composition==
Early drafts of the chapter probably were completed near the end of [[1939]]); in that version, the original Fellowship consisted of Gandalf, Boromir, and five Hobbits including "[[Trotter|Peregrin Boffin]]".<ref>{{CG|CG}}, p. xxii</ref>

Later drafts of the chapter were reworked around [[1940]]-[[1941]], with at least three new versions. New material included Aragorn as the [[Heir of Elendil]] and related additions; but since narration was too long,background information was removed to the [[Appendices]] and to another text called ''[[Of the Rings of Power and the Third Age]]''.<ref>{{CG|CG}}, p. xxiii</ref>
{{references}}
[[Category:The Fellowship of the Ring chapters|Council of Elrond]]
[[fi:Elrondin neuvonpito (TSH)]]

The Council of Elrond

2025-08-03T15:43:09Z

Headrock: /* Summary */ Minor changes to the AI's phraseology, which contracted sentences a bit too much in places. The word count does not appear to have significantly increased; it is still approximately 35% shorter than the previous version. This is a great improvement, and perhaps I will repeat it for other chapters, if I choose to resume this monumental work. Please feel free to comment in the discussion tab.

{{disambig-more|The Council of Elrond|[[The Council of Elrond (disambiguation)]]}}{{Quote|There is naught that you can do, other than to resist, with hope or without it. But you do not stand alone.}}{{chapter
| image=Peter Xavier Price - The Lord of Rivendell.jpg
| title=The Council of Elrond
| book=The Fellowship of the Ring
| number=14
| event=The [[Council of Elrond]] is held; [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] volunteers to take the [[The One Ring|

Ring]] to [[Mordor]].
| date=[[25 October]] {{TA|3018|n}}
| location=[[Rivendell]]
| perspective=[[Frodo Baggins]]
| previous=Many Meetings
| next=The Ring Goes South
}}

'''The Council of Elrond''' is the second chapter of the second book in ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.

In this chapter, the visitors to [[Rivendell]] assemble to discuss the matter of the [[One Ring]]. Each, in turn, tells news of their lands, recent events, and the reasons that had brought them to Rivendell. Finally [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] reveals the One Ring and its accompanying doom. [[Gandalf]] describes the capture of [[Gollum]], and his own imprisonment at [[Orthanc]]. A decision is made to take the One Ring to [[Mordor]], where it must be destroyed. Frodo volunteers to carry the Ring there, and when [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]] objects to him going alone, he is drafted to accompany Frodo on his task.

==Summary==

The next morning, [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] and [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]] take a walk in [[Rivendell]] and run into [[Gandalf]] and [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]]. Gandalf informs them that a [[Council of Elrond|great council]] is about to begin, to which Sam uninvitedly follows.

The council takes place on the same porch where Frodo had reunited with [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] and [[Peregrin Took|Pippin]] the previous evening. Among the many attendants, Frodo spots [[Elrond]], [[Glorfindel]], and [[Glóin]], as well as [[Strider]] wearing his worn travel clothes again.

Gandalf introduces Frodo to the attendants:

{{quote|Here, my friends, is the hobbit, Frodo son of Drogo. Few have ever come hither through greater peril or on an errand more urgent.|[[Gandalf]]}}

Gandalf points out several important figures: Glóin's son, [[Gimli]]; [[Erestor]], Elrond's chief counselor; [[Galdor]], a messenger from [[Cirdan the Shipwright]] of the [[Grey Havens]]; and [[Legolas]], son of [[Thranduil]], King of the Elves of [[Mirkwood]]. Frodo also notes a [[Men|Man]] sitting apart, wearing rich but travel-worn clothes, and holding a [[Great Horn|great horn]]. Gandalf identifies him as [[Boromir]], who had arrived that morning from the south, seeking counsel.

Glóin begins to speak, explaining that the [[Dwarves]] of [[Erebor]] have grown disquiet. Firstly, a large group, led by [[Balin]], [[Ori]] and [[Óin]], attempted to reconquer [[Moria]], a wonder of the Northern world that had been delved too deep, waking a "nameless fear". While news initially indicated success, the messages soon ceased.

According to Glóin, one year ago a messenger from [[Mordor]] arrived at Erebor, seeking to forge friendship between [[Sauron]] and the Dwarves. The messenger asked about "[[Hobbits]]" and a "little ring," stating:

{{quote|As a small token only of your friendship Sauron asks this: that you should find this thief, and get from him, willing or no, a little ring, the least of rings, that once he stole. It is but a trifle that Sauron fancies, and an earnest of your good will.|[[Sauron]]'s messenger to [[Erebor]]}}

In return, the messenger promised [[Dáin]], king of Erebor, three of the lost [[Seven Dwarf-rings|Dwarf-rings]] and guaranteed Moria to them forever. Dáin became suspicious and refused an immediate answer, leading to repeated visits and veiled threats.

The Dwarves later learned that similar messengers had been sent to King [[Brand]] of [[Dale]]. The Dwarves and the [[Men of Dale]] now fear an attack from Mordor. Dáin has sent Glóin to Rivendell to warn Bilbo and ask for Elrond's counsel. Elrond commends Dáin's decision, but states that the Dwarves must resist, and that this trouble belongs to all of the western world.

Elrond begins to explain the ancient history of [[The One Ring]] in full. He recounts how the [[Rings of Power]] were forged by the Elves of [[Eregion]] during the [[Second Age]]. Eager for knowledge, the Elves were susceptible to Sauron's charms; Instead, the Dark Lord learned their arts and crafted the One Ring in secret at [[Orodruin]], to control the others. [[Celebrimbor]] hid the [[Three Rings]] he had created without Sauron's aid, but a war ensued, destroying Eregion and shutting [[Doors of Durin|Moria's western gate]].

Elrond continues the story of the Second Age, speaking of the fall of [[Númenor]] and the arrival of [[Elendil]] and his sons, [[Isildur]] and [[Anárion]], who founded the kingdoms of [[Arnor]] and [[Gondor]]. Sauron assaulted their kingdoms, leading to the [[Last Alliance]] — a combined army of Elves and Men — formed by Elendil and [[Gil-Galad]] to defeat him.

Elrond, who was present, describes the [[Battle of Dagorlad]] and the [[Siege of Barad-dûr]], where Gil-Galad and Elendil were killed. Isildur then used [[Narsil]] to cut the Ring from Sauron's hand, destroying the Dark Lord and taking the Ring for himself.

Elrond personally witnessed this and, with Cirdan, tried to convince Isildur to destroy the Ring immediately, but Isildur refused, claiming it as compensation. Elrond then recounts Isildur's fatal ambush by Orcs at the [[Gladden Fields]], when the Ring sank into the [[Anduin|Great River Anduin]]. Isildur's squire, [[Ohtar]], survived the ambush and brought the broken shards of Narsil back to Rivendell to Isildur's heir, [[Valandil]].

Because the Ring was not destroyed, Sauron was not wholly defeated, and Elves and Men have grown estranged, with the race of Númenor decaying. The line of kings in Gondor eventually failed, and the land has been ruled by [[Steward of Gondor|Stewards]] for centuries.

Elrond describes the annals of Gondor, whose great citadel of [[Minas Anor]], the Tower of the Sun, has stood as a bastion against Mordor. Its eastern city of Minas Ithil fell to evil, becoming [[Minas Morgul]], leading to constant war with Mordor. Minas Anor was renamed "Minas Tirith", the Tower of the Guard, and a few centuries later the Gondorian capital of [[Osgiliath]] had to be evacuated of its citizenry.

Boromir then rises, revealing Gondor as his homeland and informing the others of its current state. He claims that only by the valor of his countrymen in their constant battle against Mordor are the lands beyond Gondor kept safe and peaceful, though he warns that Gondor's defeat may not be far off.

In June, he reports, Mordor's forces invaded [[Ithilien]], a fair land of hills and woods on the borders of Mordor. They retook part of Osgiliath, and destroyed the bridge connecting its two sides. Boromir reports that Mordor is now allied with [[Easterlings]] and [[Haradrim]], and a great black horseman gives unnatural strength to all of their armies.

Boromir explains his arrival at Rivendell to seek counsel regarding a shared dream he and his brother had experienced. In this dream, a voice cried:

{{quote|Seek for the Sword that was broken;    In Imladris it dwells; There shall be counsels taken    Stronger than Morgul-spells. There shall be shown a token    That Doom is near at hand, For Isildur's Bane shall waken    And the Halfling forth shall stand.|[[Boromir]]'s Dream}}

Boromir and his brother consulted their father, [[Denethor II]], the current Steward, who recognized "Imladris" as Elrond's home. Though his brother volunteered to go, Boromir took the perilous quest himself, despite his father's objections.

At this, Strider stands and places his broken sword on the table, identifying it as the sword from Boromir's dream. Elrond introduces Strider as [[Aragorn]], a direct descendant of Isildur.

Frodo immediately exclaims that the Ring should be given to Aragorn, but Aragorn rejects ownership of it. Elrond instead bids Frodo hold up the Ring for all to see, and despite a sudden reluctance, Frodo reveals it. Elrond introduces the Ring as "Isildur's Bane" – Sauron's Ruling Ring. Boromir is dismayed, fearing doom for his people. Nevertheless, he says this:

{{Quote|I was not sent to beg any boon, but to seek only the meaning of a riddle. Yet we are hard pressed, and the Sword of Elendil would be a help beyond our hope - if such a thing could indeed return out of the shadows of the past.|[[Boromir]]}}

Bilbo then recites the [[Riddle of Strider]] aloud, revealing that he wrote it after first meeting Aragorn. Aragorn explains his own background to Boromir: Narsil has been diligently passed down to him as Isildur's heir. He describes the [[Dúnedain]]'s thankless and secret work in protecting the northern lands, often receiving scorn from the very people they guard. Aragorn declares that he will come to Minas Tirith to aid in the coming battle.

Bilbo and Frodo then recount their respective experiences with the Ring. Bilbo apologizes for having lied to his friends about how he had found it.

Frodo is curious about Gandalf's absence during his journey from [[The Shire|the Shire]] to Rivendell. Galdor also asks how the [[Wise]] are so sure about the Ring's identity, and wonders about [[Saruman]]'s absence.

Gandalf first points out the obvious: only one ring remains that Sauron might seek; and Bilbo found his ring in the same year when Sauron (posing as "[[Sauron#The Necromancer|The Necromancer]]") was defeated at [[Dol Guldur]].

Gandalf then reveals Saruman's treachery: he had cunningly rejected the idea that the Ring could ever be found, and delayed the White Council from acting against Sauron, allowing Sauron to prepare for the eventual attack and withdraw safely to Mordor once defeated. Gandalf admits that doubt kept growing in him, but he initially decided to let the matter of Gollum go to avoid stirring needless trouble. However, when spies began appearing near the Shire around the time of [[Bilbo's Farewell Party]], Gandalf consulted Aragorn, who convinced him to hunt for Gollum. They found traces of Gollum near Mordor, but could not find him.

Gandalf was reminded of Saruman's description:

{{quote|The Nine, the Seven, and the Three had each their proper gem. Not so the One. It was round and unadorned, as it were one of the lesser rings; but its maker set marks upon it that the skilled, maybe, could still see and read.|[[Saruman]]'s description of the [[One Ring]], according to [[Gandalf]]}}

Knowing only Isildur could have provided this description of the One Ring, Gandalf went to Gondor to study its ancient lore. Denethor received him coldly but allowed access. Gandalf found [[Scroll of Isildur|a scroll written by Isildur]], detailing the Ring's initial scorching and shrinking, and the fading inscription that Isildur suspected might reappear with heat. Gandalf later threw Bilbo's ring into fire to confirm this. He then recites the part of the [[Ring Verse]] that appeared, causing a shadow to pass over Rivendell.

Aragorn recounts capturing Gollum near the [[Dead Marshes]] and delivering him to the [[Elves of Mirkwood|Wood Elves]]. Gandalf interrogated Gollum, confirming that his story matches Bilbo's, and discovering that the Ring had greatly extended Gollum's life.

Finally, Gandalf explains that Gollum had been searching for the Ring in Mordor, where he was captured, tortured, and revealed everything to Sauron, who now knows that the Ring is in Rivendell. Gandalf surmises that Gollum was released by Sauron to perform some unknown, nefarious task.

Legolas now interjects with alarming news: Gollum has escaped imprisonment in Mirkwood. He explains that the Elves, taking pity on Gollum after learning his story, had moved him out of the dungeons. Glóin grumbles that [[Thorin and Company|Thorin's Company]] did not receive such mercy, forcing Gandalf to interject to prevent a quarrel.

Legolas continues, describing Gollum's escape during a suspiciously-timed Orc attack. Gollum's guards were slain, and his tracks disappeared near Dol Guldur. Legolas adds that Mirkwood has become full of evil creatures again. Gandalf expresses frustration, but hopes that Gollum might now play a part that Sauron has not foreseen.

Gandalf then recounts his own disappearance. In June, he left Hobbiton and received news of Mordor's invasion of Ithilien. Hurrying east, he met fellow [[Wizard]] [[Radagast the Brown]], who reported Nazgûl disguised as black riders crossing the Great River and asking around for the "Shire". Radagast also told Gandalf that Saruman requests to see him. Gandalf, hoping Saruman had found a way to fend off the Nazgûl, rode to [[Isengard]], leaving a message for Frodo in [[Bree]].

Gandalf felt trepidation entering Isengard, a vast circle of rock with the lone tower [[Orthanc]] at its center. Saruman, wearing a ring on his finger and a robe of many colors (details that immediately aroused Gandalf's suspicions), greeted him coldly. Saruman refused Gandalf's pleas for aid, accusing him of hiding some secret in the Shire. Nevertheless, he offered Gandalf an opportunity:

{{quote|A new Power is rising. Against it the old allies and policies will not avail us at all. There is no hope left in Elves or dying Númenor. This then is one choice before you, before us. We may join with that Power. It would be wise, Gandalf. There is hope that way. Its victory is at hand; and there will be rich reward for those that aided it.|[[Saruman]]}}

He promised rich rewards, and revealed he knew that Gandalf was protecting the One Ring.

Gandalf refused the offer, seeing Saruman and Sauron as two sides of the same coin. Gandalf was imprisoned at the Pinnacle of Orthanc, where he saw that Isengard had been filled with pits and forges, mustering an army of Orcs and Wolves. Frodo exclaims he had seen this in a dream.

Gandalf was eventually rescued by the [[Great Eagles|Great Eagle]] [[Gwaihir]], who came to deliver news of the Nazgûl and Gollum's escape. He bore Gandalf away before Saruman could intervene. Gwaihir took him to the land of [[Rohan]], where Saruman's lies had already taken hold, resulting in a cold reception. Nevertheless, King [[Theoden]] offered him a choice of horse from his stable. Gandalf chose [[Shadowfax]], chief of the legendary [[Mearas]], an unridden horse who was faster even than Nazgûl steeds. Shadowfax carried him from Rohan all the way to the Shire by the time Frodo reached the [[Barrow-downs]].

Gandalf reached [[Hobbiton]], learning that Frodo had left and Black Riders had come. He found [[Buckland]] in uproar after the Nazgûl attack on [[Crickhollow]]. He tracked two Nazgûl to Bree, where [[Barliman Butterbur]] revealed that the Hobbits were with Strider. He also learned of the Nazgûl's tactical error in splitting forces to attack Crickhollow and Bree simultaneously, which allowed the Hobbits to escape.

Gandalf finally intercepted the Nazgûl at Weathertop, battling through the night before escaping north, drawing four riders away. He navigated towards Rivendell, releasing Shadowfax, who would return if called. He reached Rivendell three days before Frodo. Elrond expresses his dismay at the fall of Saruman, their trusted counsel, but marvels at the resilience of the Hobbits.

The conversation now turns to the matter of the Ring's fate. Gandalf explains that while [[Tom Bombadil]] might agree to take the Ring, he would not understand its importance, might lose it, and could not stand against Sauron's full power. Glorfindel adds that taking the Ring to Bombadil in secret would also be impossible.

Glorfindel concludes that only two options remain: sending the Ring west over the sea, or destroying it immediately. Elrond counters both: the Ring cannot be destroyed by any means they possess, and the people of [[Valinor]] would not accept it, as it is an evil belonging to [[Middle-Earth]] that its people must solve for themselves.

Glorfindel then suggests throwing the Ring into the sea, subverting Saruman's lie. Gandalf counters that vile creatures might retrieve it, or shifts in the sea might bring it back, stressing the need for a permanent end. Galdor agrees, adding that getting it to the sea would be difficult with the Enemy watching, and the Nazgûl would soon be returning to chase it on faster beasts. Boromir defends his people's ability to block the Nazgûl's route from Mordor, but Galdor notes that they might bypass Gondor entirely. Elrond agrees that western roads must be shunned; the Ring must go east, to Mordor, to be destroyed where it was made.

Boromir interjects, offering to use the Ring as a weapon, as Saruman had planned. Elrond states that the Ring cannot be used, since it is wholly evil and obeys only the Dark Lord; any wielder, even the Wise, would be corrupted and simply replace Sauron. He cites Saruman's fall as a poignant example. Both Elrond and Gandalf refuse to take or hide the Ring.

Boromir is dismayed but expresses hope that the Sword that was Broken might aid Gondor, and that others will fight valiantly. Glóin suggests pooling efforts and using the other Rings of Power. Gandalf reports that [[Ring of Thrór|Thrór's ring]] was already taken by Sauron from [[Thráin]] during his torture at Dol Guldul. Glóin asks about the Elven-rings, but Elrond dismisses their usefulness as weapons, since they were made without Sauron's interference. He laments their creation. Glóin asks what would happen if the One Ring was destroyed. Elrond responds that no one knows, but hopes that the Three would become free, though they might lose their power. Glorfindel is willing to take that risk.

The conversation returns to destroying the Ring. Erestor calls any attempt to reach Orodruin a "folly". Gandalf retorts that this might be an advantage, as Sauron only understands desire for power and won't foresee a desire to destroy it. Elrond agrees:

{{quote|This quest may be attempted by the weak with as much hope as the strong. Yet such is oft the course of deeds that move the wheels of the world: small hands do them because they must, while the eyes of the great are elsewhere.|[[Elrond]]}}

Bilbo volunteers to take the Ring, lamenting that he might not get to write his book's ending. Boromir is amused at Bilbo's offer, but quickly realizes that the others greatly respected it. Gandalf thanks Bilbo but says that his part in the story ended when he passed on the Ring, except to record the events in a sequel book when the chosen questers eventually return.

Bilbo asks who those questers will be. Silence falls on the council as they ponder the question. Frodo slowly comes to the realization that the course of events he had dreaded is now inevitable. With great difficulty, he finally speaks:

{{quote|I will take the Ring, though I do not know the way.|[[Frodo Baggins]]}}

Realizing the implications, Elrond tells Frodo that the task may have been appointed for him, and that he might be the only one able to find the way. He tells Frodo that the decision must be his alone, voluntarily, but that if he chose to go he would be counted among the greatest [[Elf-friends]].

Suddenly, Sam leaps up from his hiding place, protesting that Frodo must not be sent on this quest alone. Elrond affirms:

{{quote|No indeed! You at least shall go with him. It is hardly possible to separate you from him, even when he is summoned to a secret council and you are not.|[[Elrond]]}}

At this, Sam sinks to the floor in embarrassment.

==Composition==
Early drafts of the chapter probably were completed near the end of [[1939]]); in that version, the original Fellowship consisted of Gandalf, Boromir, and five Hobbits including "[[Trotter|Peregrin Boffin]]".<ref>{{CG|CG}}, p. xxii</ref>

Later drafts of the chapter were reworked around [[1940]]-[[1941]], with at least three new versions. New material included Aragorn as the [[Heir of Elendil]] and related additions; but since narration was too long,background information was removed to the [[Appendices]] and to another text called ''[[Of the Rings of Power and the Third Age]]''.<ref>{{CG|CG}}, p. xxiii</ref>
{{references}}
[[Category:The Fellowship of the Ring chapters|Council of Elrond]]
[[fi:Elrondin neuvonpito (TSH)]]

The Council of Elrond

2025-08-03T14:14:37Z

Headrock: Two years later, I've enlisted the help of a Large-Language Model to rewrite this summary (though I have made quite a lot of input and manual revisions after the fact). Let's see how much this helps...

{{disambig-more|The Council of Elrond|[[The Council of Elrond (disambiguation)]]}}{{Quote|There is naught that you can do, other than to resist, with hope or without it. But you do not stand alone.}}{{chapter
| image=Peter Xavier Price - The Lord of Rivendell.jpg
| title=The Council of Elrond
| book=The Fellowship of the Ring
| number=14
| event=The [[Council of Elrond]] is held; [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] volunteers to take the [[The One Ring|

Ring]] to [[Mordor]].
| date=[[25 October]] {{TA|3018|n}}
| location=[[Rivendell]]
| perspective=[[Frodo Baggins]]
| previous=Many Meetings
| next=The Ring Goes South
}}

'''The Council of Elrond''' is the second chapter of the second book in ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.

In this chapter, the visitors to [[Rivendell]] assemble to discuss the matter of the [[One Ring]]. Each, in turn, tells news of their lands, recent events, and the reasons that had brought them to Rivendell. Finally [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] reveals the One Ring and its accompanying doom. [[Gandalf]] describes the capture of [[Gollum]], and his own imprisonment at [[Orthanc]]. A decision is made to take the One Ring to [[Mordor]], where it must be destroyed. Frodo volunteers to carry the Ring there, and when [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]] objects to him going alone, he is drafted to accompany Frodo on his task.

==Summary==

The next morning, [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] and [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]] take a walk in [[Rivendell]] and run into [[Gandalf]] and [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]]. Gandalf informs them a [[Council of Elrond|great council]] is about to begin, to which Sam uninvitedly follows.

The council takes place on the same porch where Frodo had reunited with [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] and [[Peregrin Took|Pippin]] the previous evening. Among the many attendants, Frodo spots [[Elrond]], [[Glorfindel]], and [[Glóin]], as well as [[Strider]] wearing his worn travel clothes again.

Gandalf introduces Frodo to the attendants:

{{quote|Here, my friends, is the hobbit, Frodo son of Drogo. Few have ever come hither through greater peril or on an errand more urgent.|[[Gandalf]]}}

Gandalf points out several important figures: Glóin's son, [[Gimli]]; [[Erestor]], Elrond's chief counselor; [[Galdor]], a messenger from [[Cirdan the Shipwright]] of the [[Grey Havens]]; and [[Legolas]], son of [[Thranduil]], King of the Elves of [[Mirkwood]]. Frodo also notes a [[Men|Man]] sitting apart, wearing rich but travel-worn clothes, and holding a [[Great Horn|great horn]]. Gandalf identifies him as [[Boromir]], who arrived that morning from the south, seeking counsel.

Glóin begins to speak, explaining that the [[Dwarves]] of [[Erebor]] had grown disquiet. A large group, led by [[Balin]], [[Ori]] and [[Óin]], attempted to reconquer [[Moria]], a wonder of the Northern world that had been delved too deep, waking a "nameless fear". While news initially indicated success, messages soon ceased.

According to Glóin, one year ago a messenger from [[Mordor]] arrived at Erebor, seeking to forge friendship between [[Sauron]] and the Dwarves. The messenger asked about "[[Hobbits]]" and a "little ring," stating:

{{quote|As a small token only of your friendship Sauron asks this: that you should find this thief, and get from him, willing or no, a little ring, the least of rings, that once he stole. It is but a trifle that Sauron fancies, and an earnest of your good will.|[[Sauron]]'s messenger to [[Erebor]]}}

In return, the messenger promised [[Dáin]], king of Erebor, three of the lost [[Seven Dwarf-rings|Dwarf-rings]] and guaranteed Moria to them forever. Dáin became suspicious and refused an immediate answer, leading to repeated visits and veiled threats.

The Dwarves also learned that similar messengers had been sent to King [[Brand]] of [[Dale]]. The Dwarves and Men of the North now fear an attack from Mordor. Dáin sent Glóin to Rivendell to warn Bilbo and ask for Elrond's counsel. Elrond commends Dáin's decision, but states the Dwarves must resist, and that the trouble belongs to all of the western world.

Elrond begins to explain the ancient history of [[The One Ring]] in full. He recounts how the [[Rings of Power]] were forged by the Elves of [[Eregion]] during the [[Second Age]]. Eager for knowledge, the Elves were susceptible to Sauron's charms; The Dark Lord learned their arts and crafted the One Ring in secret at [[Orodruin]] to control the others. [[Celebrimbor]] hid the [[Three Rings]] he had created without Sauron's aid, but a war ensued, destroying Eregion and shutting [[Doors of Durin|Moria's gate]].

Elrond continues the story of the Second Age, speaking of the fall of [[Númenor]] and the arrival of [[Elendil]] and his sons, [[Isildur]] and [[Anárion]], who founded the kingdoms of [[Arnor]] and [[Gondor]]. Sauron assaulted their kingdoms, leading to the [[Last Alliance]], a combined army of Elves and Men, formed by Elendil and [[Gil-Galad]] to defeat him.

Elrond, who was present, describes the [[Battle of Dagorlad]] and the [[Siege of Barad-dûr]], where Gil-Galad and Elendil were killed. Isildur then used [[Narsil]] to cut the Ring from Sauron's hand, destroying the Dark Lord and taking the Ring for himself.

Elrond personally witnessed this and, with Cirdan, tried to convince Isildur to destroy the Ring immediately, but Isildur refused, claiming it as compensation. Elrond then recounts Isildur's ambush by Orcs at the [[Gladden Fields]], where he lost the Ring. Isildur's squire, [[Ohtar]], survived the ambush and brought the broken shards of Narsil back to Rivendell to Isildur's heir, [[Valandil]].

Because the Ring was not destroyed, Sauron was not wholly defeated, and Elves and Men have grown estranged, with the race of Númenor decaying. The line of kings in Gondor eventually failed, and the land has been ruled by [[Steward of Gondor|Stewards]] for centuries.

Elrond describes the annals of Gondor, whose great citadel of [[Minas Anor]], the Tower of the Sun, has stood as a bastion against Mordor. Its eastern city of Minas Ithil fell to evil, becoming [[Minas Morgul]], leading to constant war with Mordor. Minas Anor was renamed "Minas Tirith", the Tower of the Guard, and a few centuries later the Gondorian capital of [[Osgiliath]] had to be evacuated.

Boromir then rises, revealing Gondor as his homeland and informing the others of its current state. He claims that only by the valor of his countrymen in their constant battle against Mordor are the lands beyond Gondor kept safe and peaceful, though he warns that Gondor's defeat may not be far off.

In June, Mordor's forces invaded [[Ithilien]], a fair land of hills and woods on the borders of Mordor. They retook part of Osgiliath, and destroyed the bridge connecting its two sides. Boromir reports that Mordor is allied with [[Easterlings]] and [[Haradrim]], with a great black horseman strengthening their armies.

Boromir explains his arrival at Rivendell to seek counsel regarding a shared dream he and his brother experienced. In this dream, a voice cried:

{{quote|Seek for the Sword that was broken;    In Imladris it dwells; There shall be counsels taken    Stronger than Morgul-spells. There shall be shown a token    That Doom is near at hand, For Isildur's Bane shall waken    And the Halfling forth shall stand.|[[Boromir]]'s Dream}}

Boromir and his brother consulted their father, [[Denethor II]], the current Steward, who recognized "Imladris" as Elrond's home. Boromir took the perilous quest himself, despite his father's objections.

At this, Strider stands and places his broken sword, Narsil, on the table, identifying it as the sword from Boromir's dream. Elrond introduces him as [[Aragorn]], a direct descendant of Isildur.

Frodo immediately exclaims that the Ring should be given to Aragorn, but Aragorn rejects ownership of it. Elrond instead bids Frodo hold up the Ring for all to see, and despite reluctance, Frodo reveals it. Elrond introduces the Ring as "Isildur's Bane" – Sauron's Ruling Ring. Boromir is dismayed, fearing doom for his people. Nevertheless, he says this:

{{Quote|I was not sent to beg any boon, but to seek only the meaning of a riddle. Yet we are hard pressed, and the Sword of Elendil would be a help beyond our hope - if such a thing could indeed return out of the shadows of the past.|[[Boromir]]}}

Bilbo then recites the [[Riddle of Strider]] aloud, revealing he wrote it after first meeting Aragorn. Aragorn explains his own background to Boromir: Narsil has been diligently passed down to him as Isildur's heir. He describes the Dúnedain's thankless and secret work in protecting the northern lands, often receiving scorn from the very people they guard. Aragorn declares he will come to Minas Tirith to aid in the coming battle.

Bilbo and Frodo then recount their respective experiences with the Ring. Bilbo apologizes for having lied to his friends about how he had found it.

Frodo is curious about Gandalf's absence during his journey from [[The Shire|the Shire]] to Rivendell. Galdor also asks how the [[Wise]] are so sure about the Ring's identity, and wonders about [[Saruman]]'s absence.

Gandalf first points out the obvious: only one ring remains that Sauron might seek; and Bilbo found his ring in the same year Sauron (posing as "[[Sauron#The Necromancer|The Necromancer]]") was defeated at [[Dol Guldur]].

Gandalf then reveals Saruman's treachery: He had cunningly rejected the idea that the Ring could be found, and delayed the White Council from action against Sauron, allowing Sauron to prepare for the eventual attack and withdraw safely to Mordor once defeated. Gandalf admits that doubt kept growing in him, but he initially decided to let the matter of Gollum go to avoid stirring needless trouble. However, when spies began appearing near the Shire around the time of [[Bilbo's Farewell Party]], Gandalf consulted Aragorn, who convinced him to hunt for Gollum. They found traces of Gollum near Mordor, but could not find him.

Gandalf was reminded of Saruman's description:

{{quote|The Nine, the Seven, and the Three had each their proper gem. Not so the One. It was round and unadorned, as it were one of the lesser rings; but its maker set marks upon it that the skilled, maybe, could still see and read.|[[Saruman]]'s description of the [[One Ring]], according to [[Gandalf]]}}

Knowing only Isildur could have provided this, Gandalf went to Gondor to study scrolls. Denethor received him coldly but allowed access. Gandalf found [[Scroll of Isildur|a scroll written by Isildur]], detailing the Ring's initial scorching and shrinking, and the fading words that Isildur suspected might reappear with heat. Later, he threw Bilbo's ring into fire to confirm this. Gandalf then recites the part of the [[Ring Verse]] that appeared, causing a shadow to pass over Rivendell.

Aragorn recounts capturing Gollum near the [[Dead Marshes]] and delivering him to the [[Elves of Mirkwood|Wood Elves]]. Gandalf interrogated Gollum, confirming that his story matches Bilbo's, and discovering that the Ring had greatly extended Gollum's life.

Finally, Gandalf explains that Gollum had been looking for the Ring in Mordor, where he was captured, tortured, and revealed everything to Sauron, who now knows that the Ring is in Rivendell. Gandalf surmises that Gollum was released by Sauron to perform some unknown, nefarious task.

Legolas now interjects with alarming news: Gollum has escaped Mirkwood's prison. He explains that the Elves, taking pity on Gollum after learning his story, had moved him out of the dungeons. Glóin grumbles that [[Thorin and Company|Thorin's Company]] did not receive such mercy, forcing Gandalf to interject to prevent a quarrel.

Legolas continues, describing Gollum's escape during a suspiciously-timed Orc attack. Gollum's guards were slain, and his tracks disappeared near Dol Guldur. Legolas adds that Mirkwood has become full of evil creatures again. Gandalf expresses frustration, but hopes that Gollum will now play a part Sauron has not foreseen.

Gandalf then recounts his own disappearance. In June, he left Hobbiton and received news of Mordor's invasion of Ithilien. Hurrying east, he met [[Radagast the Brown]], who reported Nazgûl crossing [[Anduin|the Great River]], asking around for the "Shire". Radagast also told Gandalf that Saruman requests to see him at his home, in [[Orthanc]]. Gandalf, hoping Saruman had a weapon against the Nazgûl, rode to [[Isengard]], leaving a message for Frodo in [[Bree]].

Gandalf felt trepidation entering Isengard, a circle of rock with a lone tower at its center. Saruman, wearing a ring on his finger and a robe of many colors (details that immediately aroused Gandalf's suspicions), greeted him coldly. Saruman refused Gandalf's pleas for aid, and suspected him of hiding some secret in the Shire.

Saruman offered Gandalf an opportunity:

{{quote|A new Power is rising. Against it the old allies and policies will not avail us at all. There is no hope left in Elves or dying Númenor. This then is one choice before you, before us. We may join with that Power. It would be wise, Gandalf. There is hope that way. Its victory is at hand; and there will be rich reward for those that aided it.|[[Saruman]]}}

He promised rich rewards, and revealed he knew Gandalf was protecting the Ring.

Gandalf refused the offer, seeing Saruman and Sauron as two sides of the same coin. Gandalf was imprisoned at the Pinnacle of Orthanc, where he saw that Isengard was filled with pits and forges, mustering an army of Orcs and Wolves. Frodo exclaims he had seen this in a dream.

Gandalf was eventually rescued by the [[Great Eagles|Great Eagle]] [[Gwaihir]], who came to deliver news of the Nazgûl and Gollum's escape. He bore Gandalf away before Saruman could intervene. Gwaihir took him to Rohan, where Saruman's lies had taken hold, resulting in a cold reception.

In Rohan, Gandalf was offered a choice of horses from the king's stable. Gandalf chose [[Shadowfax]], chief of the legendary [[Mearas]], an unridden horse that was faster even than Nazgûl steeds. Shadowfax carried him from Rohan all the way to the Shire by the time Frodo reached the [[Barrow-downs]].

Gandalf reached [[Hobbiton]], learning that Frodo had left and Black Riders had come. He found [[Buckland]] in uproar after the Nazgûl attack on [[Crickhollow]]. He tracked two Nazgûl to Bree, where [[Barliman Butterbur]] revealed that the Hobbits were with Strider. He also learned of the Nazgûl's tactical error in splitting forces to attack Crickhollow and Bree simultaneously, which allowed the Hobbits to escape.

Gandalf finally intercepted the Nazgûl at Weathertop, battling through the night before escaping north, drawing four riders away. He navigated towards Rivendell, releasing Shadowfax, who would return if called. He reached Rivendell three days before Frodo. Elrond expresses his dismay at the fall of Saruman, their trusted counsel, but marvels at the resilience of the Hobbits.

The conversation now turns to the matter of the Ring's fate. Gandalf explains that while [[Tom Bombadil]] might agree to take the Ring, he would not understand its importance, might lose it, and could not stand against Sauron's full power. Glorfindel adds that taking the Ring to Bombadil in secret would also be impossible.

Glorfindel concludes that only two options remain: sending the Ring west over the sea, or destroying it immediately. Elrond counters both: the Ring cannot be destroyed by any means they possess, and the people of [[Valinor]] would not accept it, as it is an evil belonging to [[Middle-Earth]] that its people must solve for themselves.

Glorfindel then suggests throwing the Ring into the sea, subverting Saruman's lie. Gandalf counters that vile creatures might retrieve it, or shifts in the sea might bring it back, stressing the need for a permanent end. Galdor agrees, adding that getting it to the sea would be difficult with the Enemy watching, and the Nazgûl would soon be returning to chase it on faster beasts. Boromir defends his people's ability to block the Nazgûl's route from Mordor, but Galdor notes that they might bypass Gondor entirely. Elrond agrees that western roads must be shunned; the Ring must go east, to Mordor, to be destroyed where it was made.

Boromir interjects, offering to use the Ring as a weapon, as Saruman had planned. Elrond states that the Ring cannot be used, since it is wholly evil and obeys only the Dark Lord; any wielder, even the Wise, would be corrupted and simply replace Sauron. He cites Saruman's fall as a poignant example. Both Elrond and Gandalf refuse to take or hide the Ring.

Boromir is dismayed but expresses hope that the Sword that was Broken might aid Gondor, and that others will fight valiantly. Glóin suggests pooling efforts and using the other Rings of Power. Gandalf reports that [[Ring of Thrór|Thrór's ring]] was already taken by Sauron from [[Thráin]] during his torture at Dol Guldul.

Glóin asks about the Elven-rings, but Elrond dismisses them as weapons, since they were made without Sauron's interference. He laments their creation. Glóin asks what would happen if the One Ring was destroyed. Elrond responds no one knows, but hopes the Three would become free, though they might lose their power. Glorfindel is willing to take that risk.

The conversation returns to destroying the Ring. Erestor calls any attempt to reach Orodruin a "folly". Gandalf retorts that this might be an advantage, as Sauron only understands desire for power and won't foresee a desire to destroy it. Elrond agrees:

{{quote|This quest may be attempted by the weak with as much hope as the strong. Yet such is oft the course of deeds that move the wheels of the world: small hands do them because they must, while the eyes of the great are elsewhere.|[[Elrond]]}}

Bilbo volunteers to take the Ring, lamenting that he might not get to write his book's ending. Boromir is amused at Bilbo's offer, but quickly realizes that the others greatly respected it. Gandalf thanks Bilbo but says that his part in the story ended when he passed on the Ring, except to record the events in a sequel book when the chosen questers eventually return.

Bilbo asks who those questers will be. Silence falls on the council as they ponder the question. Frodo slowly comes to the realization that the course of events he had dreaded is now inevitable. With great difficulty, he finally speaks:

{{quote|I will take the Ring, though I do not know the way.|[[Frodo Baggins]]}}

Realizing the implications, Elrond tells Frodo that the task may have been appointed for him, and that he might be the only one able to find the way. He tells Frodo that the decision must be his alone, voluntarily, but that if he chose to go he would be counted among the greatest [[Elf-friends]].

Suddenly, Sam leaps up from his hiding place, protesting that Frodo must not be sent on this quest alone. Elrond affirms:

{{quote|No indeed! You at least shall go with him. It is hardly possible to separate you from him, even when he is summoned to a secret council and you are not.|[[Elrond]]}}

At this, Sam sinks to the floor in embarrassment.

==Composition==
Early drafts of the chapter probably were completed near the end of [[1939]]); in that version, the original Fellowship consisted of Gandalf, Boromir, and five Hobbits including "[[Trotter|Peregrin Boffin]]".<ref>{{CG|CG}}, p. xxii</ref>

Later drafts of the chapter were reworked around [[1940]]-[[1941]], with at least three new versions. New material included Aragorn as the [[Heir of Elendil]] and related additions; but since narration was too long,background information was removed to the [[Appendices]] and to another text called ''[[Of the Rings of Power and the Third Age]]''.<ref>{{CG|CG}}, p. xxiii</ref>
{{references}}
[[Category:The Fellowship of the Ring chapters|Council of Elrond]]
[[fi:Elrondin neuvonpito (TSH)]]

User talk:Quentandil

2023-09-16T15:52:10Z

Headrock: /* Reply to Discussion on "The Council of Elrond" */ new section

{{talkarchive|Archive}}
<table style="border: 1px solid #c0c090; background-color: #f8eaba; width:80%; margin-left: auto; margin-right:auto;"><tr><td rowspan="2">[[Image:Nuvola apps edu languages.png|none|50px|link=]]</td><td><div id="talk" style="text-align: center; padding: 5px; clear: both;><big>'''''Welcome to [[User:LorenzoCB|LorenzoCB]]'s talk page.'''''</big></div></td></tr><tr><td><ul><li>Please [{{SERVER}}{{localurl:{{NAMESPACE}}:{{PAGENAME}}|action=edit&section=new}} post your new topic at the ''bottom''] of this page, including a '''<nowiki>==Descriptive heading==</nowiki>'''.</li><li>You should sign and date your posts by inserting "'''<nowiki>~~</nowiki>~~'''" at the end of them.</li><li>Please indent your posts with "''':'''" if replying to an existing topic (or "'''::'''" if replying to a reply, etc.).</li><li>I will generally respond ''here'' to comments that are posted here, rather than replying via your talk page (or the article talk page, if you are writing to me about an article), so you may want to [{{SERVER}}{{localurl:{{NAMESPACE}}:{{PAGENAME}}|action=watch}} watch this page].</li><li>If I have left a message on ''your'' talk page, please continue the discussion there; '''DO NOT''' reply here. This is ensure that discussions do not become fragmented over several talk pages.</li></ul>[{{SERVER}}{{localurl:{{NAMESPACE}}:{{PAGENAME}}|action=edit&section=new}} '''⇒ Start a new talk topic.''']</td></tr></table>


== Justify ==

Ok.But I want you to know that I don't have any bad intentions.I mean, I am not trying to destroy Tolkien Gateway, I am trying to improve it. [[User:Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου|Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου]]

:Don't worry. I'm not accusing you of anything. I'm sure you can make good contributions, and making new articles is in part needed, but maybe you could focus more on filling them. That would be very useful. --[[User:LorenzoCB|LorenzoCB]] ([[User talk:LorenzoCB|talk]]) 21:35, 10 October 2022 (UTC)

== Galadriel ==
Hi LorenzoCB. I recently edited the page on Galadriel, but you claimed I disregard terms used in the source and said my edits were poor. I would like to know where I went wrong. I did add a little inference, as some of the story of Galadriel does not align with the main procession of events. None the less it is cannon.
I noticed that some part of the page were not chronically correct and missing significant information. I would appreciate clarification. Thanks. {{unsigned|Bobsagit103}}

:I recommend that you act as an example and that you clarify here which parts of the Galadriel page are not chronologically correct or are missing which significant information and provide the reasons and the references to sources for that. Any speculation/theory/inference should be clearly prased as a possibility not a fact and the reason on which the possibility is based should be provided and accompanied by a reference for that reason (i.e. "It is possible that ..., because"). Usually LorenzoCB is a thorough editor and he rewrote the Galaxriel page. --[[User:Akhorahil|Akhorahil]] ([[User talk:Akhorahil|talk]]) 06:40, 1 November 2022 (UTC)

:Hi. Akhorahil, I can answer by myself, thanks. Bobsagit, I undid your edits mainly because you used terms that are not used in the sources; for example "Lady of Eregion" (even if she acted as the lady there, the term appears nowhere IIRC). Also, Galadriel created alliances against the growing Evil, but nobody knew it was Sauron till the creation of the One Ring. The name "Annatar" is not given in the source used in the text. You removed several details, like dates and events. Besides, I'll soon revise the article, in which I will probably remove the idea of Galadriel and Celeborn as the founders of Eregion, among many other things. --[[User:LorenzoCB|LorenzoCB]] ([[User talk:LorenzoCB|talk]]) 10:28, 1 November 2022 (UTC)

==Please block the users Jamesmaria1525 and Mariajames1525 and their IP address==
The reason is spam if you look at the edit. --[[User:Akhorahil|Akhorahil]] ([[User talk:Akhorahil|talk]]) 06:44, 1 November 2022 (UTC)
:Done. --[[User:LorenzoCB|LorenzoCB]] ([[User talk:LorenzoCB|talk]]) 11:50, 1 November 2022 (UTC)

== Trotter ==

Hello.Why did you reversed the edit that I did on the page Trotter?This character is non-canon, he was not used in this form that Tolkien originally imagined.This name was not used eventually by Tolkien. Do you deny that? ---[[User:Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου]], 12.16, 2 November 2022 (UTC)

:Hi. You reversed my edit in first place instead of discussing it. There is no not-canon because everything is canon in its own context. That's the policy of the wiki and that's why I finally deleted the category. --[[User:LorenzoCB|LorenzoCB]] ([[User talk:LorenzoCB|talk]]) 13:24, 2 November 2022 (UTC)

== Images ==

I would like to explain something.I uploaded these images today in a hurry.I didnt't do it on purpose.Do you understand what I am saying? I would also like to ask you something. Why did you deleted the image that I just uploaded again?It is permitted here, on Tolkien Gateway, to be upoaded images type webp.--[[User:Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου|Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου]] ([[User talk:Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου|talk]]) 00:10, 18 November 2022 (UTC)

I would like to explain something extra.As you can see, I just upladed more images.I have nothing more to say.But I would like these images not to be deleted, because they are good images visually, and not only that.What do you say? I am not trying to destroy Tolkien Gateway.I am trying to improve it.--[[User:Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου|Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου]] ([[User talk:Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου|talk]]) 02:56, 18 November 2022 (UTC)

:Hi. I know you are not trying to destroy TG. You are making a necessary work. There was no problem you uploaded those images with bad file names, a common beginner's mistake. But why do you excuse yourself, and ask others to fix it, and then you proceed to upload more with the same problems? Also, webp is an annoying format; that's why I reuploaded those. You cannot make others to clean what you can easlily do while uploading an image. Please, take this into account when you come back. --[[User:LorenzoCB|LorenzoCB]] ([[User talk:LorenzoCB|talk]]) 06:41, 18 November 2022 (UTC)

== Say Something ==

Hello.Thank you.I will try not to do it again.But this is not the first time that I upload images here, on Tolkien Gateway, as you may know.Maybe I do it in a hurry, but I do it with good intentions, not with bad intentions, I mean to destroy Tolkien Gateway.Do you understand what I am saying?--[[User:Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου|Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου]] ([[User talk:Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου|talk]]) 15:00, 19 November 2022 (UTC)

== Arondir image ==

I would like to explain something.I don't know, something went wrong possibly.I didn't do it on purpose (the image of Arondir that I just uploaded).Anyway.But I didn't do it with bad intentions. --[[User:Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου|Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου]] ([[User talk:Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου|talk]]) 21:15, 19 November 2022 (UTC)

:Don't worry. --[[User:LorenzoCB|LorenzoCB]] ([[User talk:LorenzoCB|talk]]) 12:56, 20 November 2022 (UTC)

== Images ==

Hello. I would like to ask you something. I would like to rename the image File:Shadow of Mordor - Ratbag2.jpg to File:Shadow of Mordor - Ratbag.jpg and to delete the image File:Shadow of Mordor - Ratbag.jpg that exists.I uploaded both of these images, but in the first image (the image File:Shadow of Mordor - Ratbag.jpg), when I uploaded it, I didn't see that this image has subtitles (actually I uploaded in a hurry), and that is why I uploaded the image File:Shadow of Mordor - Ratbag2.jpg and that is why I also want the image File:Shadow of Mordor - Ratbag.jpg to be deleted.Can you do it? It sounds complicated.Do you understand what I am saying? --[[User:Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου|Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου]] ([[User talk:Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου|talk]]) 21:39, 25 November 2022 (UTC)

:Hi. It's done. Please, avoid uploading images in a hurry. --[[User:LorenzoCB|LorenzoCB]] ([[User talk:LorenzoCB|talk]]) 16:00, 26 November 2022 (UTC)

Hello.I would like to ask you something.I didn't think it clearly about these two images that I just uploaded (about Nazgul leaving Minas Morgul).So, can you see and judge which of these two images needs to be deleted?In my opinion, the File:The Lord of the Rings - The Motion Picture Trilogy - Nazgul exiting Minas Morgul.jpg‎ needs to be deleted because this image is not very clear.I will try no to do it again. What do you say? --[[User:Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου|Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου]] ([[User talk:Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου|talk]]) 22:05, 27 November 2022 (UTC)

:The last one uploaded is better. If you want an image to be deleted, just put the <nowiki>{{delete}}</nowiki> tag. --[[User:LorenzoCB|LorenzoCB]] ([[User talk:LorenzoCB|talk]]) 22:42, 27 November 2022 (UTC)

I would like to ask you something.If you see the [[:File:The Rings of Power (TV series) - Celebrimbor.jpg]] closely, you will see that the name Amazon Studios appears there.I uploaded a new version of this image without the name Amazon Studios, but it still appears there.Can you do something about that?I don't know what else to do.Today I noticed the existence of this name on the image. Do you undestand what I am saying? --[[User:Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου|Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου]] ([[User talk:Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου|talk]]) 15:04, 03 December 2022 (UTC)

:Apaprently, the current one doesn't have the little name. Sometimes when you revert an image or upload a new version, it takes a time to be updated, so better leave it so you don't revert things to the wrong one again. --[[User:LorenzoCB|LorenzoCB]] ([[User talk:LorenzoCB|talk]]) 15:09, 3 December 2022 (UTC)

Hello.I would like to ask you something. Why did you deleted the files Tar-Miiel No2 and Mount Doom erupts No2? All these images were related to The Lord of the Rings The Rings of Power series.Now, there is only one image Tar-Miiel as depicted in The Lord of the Rings The Rings of Power series, and the same thing happens also about Mount Doom on image in The Lord of the Rings The Rings of Power series. Should these images be used somewhere, in some page I mean, and if yes, why? --[[User:Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου|Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου]] ([[User talk:Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου|talk]]) 16:39, 04 December 2022 (UTC)

:Because they were redundant files. Please, don't make me explain everything I do. --[[User:LorenzoCB|LorenzoCB]] ([[User talk:LorenzoCB|talk]]) 23:00, 5 December 2022 (UTC)
== Old Users ==

I would like to ask you something.I have noticed that Users [[User:Ederchil|Ederchil]] and [[User:Mith|Mith]] don't interfere in Tolkien Gateway's function anymore.Do you know why? I am saying that because they remain administrators of Tolkien Gateway. Do you have any contact with them or not? Do you know something more about them generally? --[[User:Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου|Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου]] ([[User talk:Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου|talk]]), 22:47, 05 December 2022 (UTC)

:I have never been in contact with Ederchil, but I message Mith once in a while: he is very busy. I assume that having me around allows him to not worry about TG. In case I left, I'd let him know; but you know, being an admin doesn't oblige us to be active here. --[[User:LorenzoCB|LorenzoCB]] ([[User talk:LorenzoCB|talk]]) 23:00, 5 December 2022 (UTC)

::I think that [[User:Mith]] is the current chair of English Tolkien Society, isn't it? His real name is Shaun Gunner, I think. Or not? Furthemore, I would like to ask you and something else. Is there any active American user here, on Tolkien Gateway or not? Right now, I mean, of American nationality and origins. --[[User:Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου|Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου]] ([[User talk:Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου|talk]]), 23:12, 05 December 2022 (UTC)

:::It's well stated in Shaun's article he is Mith. I'm not giving you more info than the users are willing to give in their userpage. Why don't you ask in the Discord server if there is an American around? Btw, you are active there: why don't you just text me there instead of using my talkpage constantly? --[[User:LorenzoCB|LorenzoCB]] ([[User talk:LorenzoCB|talk]]) 23:33, 5 December 2022 (UTC)

[[User:Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου|Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου]], I am Chad Bornholdt, the "Chad in Texas" you hear about on several podcasts (Tolkien Professor,Prancing Pony,etc.) Do you have a question related to the USA & Tolkien? I also know Shawn Gunner if you need me to contact him. (I'm easy to find on FB & I love helping people with Tolkien!)

I actually got on here to ask [[User:LorenzoCB|LorenzoCB]] a question because I don't see how to Privately Message someone on here: I am on TG CONSTANTLY. I mean, at least 3 or 4 hours per day, quoting it to others, etc. Most of my editing is when someone tells me they found a typo or other small things like that. I've never found anything horribly wrong. Anyway, today I received an email that you edited the Tengwar page, undoing something I'd edited. However, all I did on that page was change "indepedent sounds" to "independent sounds". I'm positive I didn't do anything else, but I see you did some rearranging. Is that why it emailed me, to alert me to the rearrangements? (also if there's a way to PM so everyone doesn't have to read everything...) {{unsigned|Chad in Texas}}

:Hi Chad. No, I just checked, and your edit wasn't undo. I edited the Tengwar article an hour ago or so. You must have clicked on "Watch page", so you got an email alerting you that the page has been edited. We no longer have the option to directly send emails to users, unless it is provided in the userpage. But you can join the [[Chat]] if you want. [[User:LorenzoCB|LorenzoCB]] ([[User talk:LorenzoCB|talk]]) 23:33, 5 December 2022 (UTC)

== 172.70.206.107 ==

Hello. An unregistered user named 172.70.206.107 did a vandalism I think on page The Lord of the Rings Trading Card Game‎.For now, it's OK, I reversed it, I fixed it I mean, but I suggest you not to block him for now at least. What do you say? --[[User:Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου|Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου]] ([[User talk:Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου|talk]]) 00:28, 12 December 2022 (UTC)

:I usually block reiterative vandals, and I prefer avoid blocking IDs. You don't need to consult me about undoing vandalism/spam. --[[User:LorenzoCB|LorenzoCB]] ([[User talk:LorenzoCB|talk]]) 01:16, 12 December 2022 (UTC)

::I just suggested it.I didn't insist. --[[User:Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου|Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου]] ([[User talk:Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου|talk]]) 01:21, 12 December 2022 (UTC)

== Tolkien Gateway:Meetings ==

Hello.I would like to ask you something. Do you know about Tolkien Gateway:Meetings? If you dont understand, [[Tolkien Gateway:Meetings|this is]] what I am talking about. Why doesn't anyone of you make these meetings like these of the past? You are an administrator, so you have the ability to do such a meeting.I am not an administrator, so I dont have this abiliy.Besides, I dont think will answer to such a call, because I am not administrator. So, why such meetings are yet to come here, on Tolkien Gateway? --[[User:Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου|Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου]] ([[User talk:Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου|talk]]) 14:51, 17 December 2022 (UTC)

:Yes I know about them. I wasn't involved with TG back then. Those meetings were hold back when communication was more complicated and there were more admins and users involved with the wiki. Currently, important decisions are taken by Hyarion and me, who are publically in contact in the [[Chat|Discord server]]. Actually, you could talk to me more easily there rather than in my talkpage. --[[User:LorenzoCB|LorenzoCB]] ([[User talk:LorenzoCB|talk]]) 15:31, 17 December 2022 (UTC)

== Tolkien Gateway anniversary ==

Hello.I would like to say something.January 1st of 2023, (I mean in seven days from now on), marks the twentieth anniversary of the creation of Tolkien Gateway.Should this be celebrated somehow, by organizing an online party, I mean? If you want, you can sugget it and to the other users of Tolkien Gateway. What do you say? --[[User:Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου|Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου]] ([[User talk:Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου|talk]]) 22:30, 23 December 2022 (UTC)

:Hello. I believe TG's anniversaries are counted from 3 June 2005, but anycase I agree it would be a nice idea to meet up. I commented about it a while ago in the Discord server. Idk if everyone (including me) will be free on new year day, but I'll ask which day would be best. --[[User:LorenzoCB|LorenzoCB]] ([[User talk:LorenzoCB|talk]]) 10:05, 24 December 2022 (UTC)

== Question ==

Hello. I would like to ask you something. May I become an [[Tolkien Gateway:Gatekeepers|Gatekeeper]] of TG? --[[User:Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου|Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου]] ([[User talk:Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου|talk]]) 23:40, 2 January 2023 (UTC)

:Hello. You are already one. Anyone who edits the wiki is a Gatekeeper. --[[User:LorenzoCB|LorenzoCB]] ([[User talk:LorenzoCB|talk]]) 11:24, 3 January 2023 (UTC)

== At last ==

Hello user.At last about time someone to edit this page. --[[User:Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου|Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου]] ([[User talk:Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου|talk]]) 21:10, 14 January 2023 (UTC)

:Hello. I told you already. Please use the Discord server instead of my talkpage, specially if it is just to say hi. --[[User:LorenzoCB|LorenzoCB]] ([[User talk:LorenzoCB|talk]]) 21:19, 14 January 2023 (UTC)

==Template:films==
Hello user LorenzoCB.Can you help me in editing the template:films that I just edited? I don't know what to do I think you understand my intentions about this template that I just edited.Don't you? --[[User:Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου|Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου]] ([[User talk:Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου|talk]]) 00:35, 31 January 2023 (UTC)

:Done. Please, if you don't know how to edit something, test it in the [[TG:Sandbox]], specially when we talk about a template. I already told you I don't doubt about your good intentions, but if you mess something up, undo it.--[[User:LorenzoCB|LorenzoCB]] ([[User talk:LorenzoCB|talk]]) 15:18, 31 January 2023 (UTC)

Hello again.Thank you.Thank you very much.You did a good job. An I agree with the merge of these two editings you just did now. Thank you. --[[User:Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου|Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου]] ([[User talk:Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου|talk]]) 18:03, 31 January 2023 (UTC)

== Bilbo's Last Song question ==

Hello,
I am a used/rare book dealer specializing in the Inklings.
In your section on Bilbo's Last Song you do not mention a 2002 printing by Knopf. Am I missing some nuance?
ISBN 978-0-375-82373-2

I love your site and use it often.

Regards
Stan Shelley
{{nospam|shelleyandsonbooks|gmail.com}}

:Hello. Generally we didn't include US editions for the book galleries, as it would be an overwhelming amount of work in some cases. Are there more editions of this book missing? I guess we could include them. Thanks. --[[User:LorenzoCB|LorenzoCB]] ([[User talk:LorenzoCB|talk]]) 10:34, 5 February 2023 (UTC)

== ΟΚ ==

Hello user. I didn't do it with bad intentions.I did it with good intentions, and I will try not to do it again.OK?----[[User:Γιάννης Ευαγγελίου]], 14:41, 06 February 2023 (UTC)

== Cirth pages' problems ==

I am on TG several hours a day, usually fixing very small errors. (I know Tolkien extremely well. I know Wiki very little.)

I am also in the process of making a "Cirth Training" spreadsheet.

I noticed a LOT of problems with the Cirth pages, but there are so many that I don't want to change anything until I talk to who created them to see why they laid out the pages as they did.
I believe their interpretation of JRR's in-world history of Cirth development is way off, but I want to ensure I'm not just misunderstanding their intentions.

What do you think my best path for finding & discussing with the author all the following pages?
"Cirth"
"Certhas Daeron"
"Angerthas Daeron"
"Angerthas Moria"
"Angerthas Erebor"

Chad Bornholdt ({{nospam|Chad.Bornholdt|gmail.com}})
[[User:Chad in Texas]], 26 March 2023

:Hi. Remember this is a wiki open to everyone. No article is authored and you are free to edit any of them, but I understand why you may want to talk. You can check previous edits in the History section of an article (commonly above in the right). I notice [[User:Sage]] made the main edits for the Cirth article, no idea if he made the mistakes you have in mind. I agree those have some issue, seeing them at first sight. Again, feel free to edit, always following the [[TG:Manual of Style]] and adding the required references. --[[User:LorenzoCB|LorenzoCB]] ([[User talk:LorenzoCB|talk]]) 12:01, 27 March 2023 (UTC)

==Blocking me==

Hello LorenzoCB, I am MEGRIMLOCK. I have noticed a lot of blocking happening throughout TG because of inaccuracies, and I want to apologize in advance if I am one of those causing the inaccuracies. I am a lore-2 Tolkienist, and many of my edits are small things about the obvious parts of Middle-Earth. If I make a mistake, please tell me about it on my [[User talk:MEGRIMLOCK|talk]] page so that I may fix it. Thank you in advance, [[User:MEGRIMLOCK|MEGRIMLOCK]], 4:14, 27 April 2023 (UTC)

:Hello. Don't worry. My function is not looking for users to block. I'm actually quite patient and we will teach you if you do something wrong. I'll warn you always before blocking, unless you don't keep respect.--[[User:LorenzoCB|LorenzoCB]] ([[User talk:LorenzoCB|talk]]) 17:35, 27 April 2023 (UTC)

Thank you.--
[[User:MEGRIMLOCK|MEGRIMLOCK]] 6:07, 27 April 2023 (UTC)

==Sorry to Bother you again==

Sorry to bother you again, but while I was editing other pages it would not allow me to edit, saying that my IP address was used by [[User:Dour1234|Dour1234]] and that I was not allowed to edit. I can assure you that I am not Dour1234, and I am unable to edit at certain points. if you can tell me why, I would be happy for an explanation.--
[[User:MEGRIMLOCK|MEGRIMLOCK]] 18:24, 27 April 2023 (UTC)

:I didn't remove the option to block the recent IPs of the blocked user, my bad. I think it must be solved already. If there is any problem, please tell me. --[[User:LorenzoCB|LorenzoCB]] ([[User talk:LorenzoCB|talk]]) 11:11, 28 April 2023 (UTC)

== Unban ==

Unban [[User:MEGRIMLOCK|MEGRIMLOCK]], [[User:Sausageboy|Sausageboy]], [[User:Big daddy 68|Big daddy 68]], and [[User:Weba|Weba]]--[[User:Farggle|Farggle]], 3 May 2023

:Hi. No, I think you all better calm down a little for a couple of days. --[[User:LorenzoCB|LorenzoCB]] ([[User talk:LorenzoCB|talk]]) 18:36, 3 May 2023 (UTC)

== Unban ==

Unban [[User:Sausageboy|Sausageboy]], [[User:Big daddy 68|Big daddy 68]], and [[User:Weba|Weba]] please they are just messing around.--[[User:MEGRIMLOCK|MEGRIMLOCK]], 8 May 2023 (UTC)

:I'm looking at you. --[[User:LorenzoCB|LorenzoCB]] ([[User talk:LorenzoCB|talk]]) 13:12, 8 May 2023 (UTC)

::Huh? --[[User:MEGRIMLOCK|MEGRIMLOCK]] 8 May 2023 (UTC)

:::I'm sorry for deleting things, [[User:Weba|Weba]] got ahold of my account and did things, I have reversed his edit and am changing my password. I do not know why he is targeting you.--[[User:MEGRIMLOCK|MEGRIMLOCK]] 8 May 2023

== First Age of the Children of Ilúvatar = First Age ==

Hello, Lorenzo. What do you think about the [[:Talk:Ages of the Children of Ilúvatar#Proposal of the merging|topic]]?

In my recent [[:Talk:First Age#Concerning the beginning of the First Age|discussion]] with [[:User:Akhorahil|Akhorahil]] he pointed out that even if the term "First Age of the Children of Iluvatar" is supposed to mean the same as the term "First Age", there is no clear definition of the beginning of the term "First Age" alone. Fortunately, I did find the clear definition in ''[[The Nature of Middle-earth]]''. -- [[User:Ar-Zigûr|Ar-Zigûr]] ([[User talk:Ar-Zigûr|talk]]) 09:55, 12 June 2023 (UTC)

:Hi. I can't say much now without checking the sources, but at first sight I agree it seems that the FA began with the Awakening. Btw, I think "FA of the Children of Ilúvatar" refers to that age as the first of the many ages of the Children of Ilúvatar, not that it is a proper name for the FA. Also, the article "Ages" could be focused in the concept in general, not only to the historical reckoning, so I don't approve merging FA of the Children of Ilúvatar into it before checking some things. [[User:LorenzoCB|LorenzoCB]] ([[User talk:LorenzoCB|talk]]) 11:06, 12 June 2023 (UTC)

::Okay, I understand. You can see [[First Age#Terminology]] where I made a reference to ''[[The Nature of Middle-earth]]'' with an exact page number and quotation. -- [[User:Ar-Zigûr|Ar-Zigûr]] ([[User talk:Ar-Zigûr|talk]]) 11:52, 12 June 2023 (UTC)

== Midway ==
Hello! Is it allowed to use Midway AI images created by You, Hyarion, and IvarTheBoneless in Kontuwiki? And if so, with what kind of licence? Yours, Tik / Kontuwiki Tik 05:30, 6 September 2023 (UTC)
: Great question Tik! Always nice seeing you around. Thanks for asking. I'm not familiar with Midway yet, I'll check it out. Do you have a particular article/image in mind? We want to make sure the AI illustrations are used as a last resort if we can't find any artists to illustrate a subject. As the last thing we want is for artists to feel like we prefer AI over their hard work. AI art currently cannot be copyrighted[https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/ai-works-not-copyrightable-studios-1235570316/] at least in the US, but it's an ongoing discussion and is subject to change. We can continue to use the template <nowiki>{{copyright-ai|Midway|[[User:Username|Username]]}}</nowiki> and in the future we can add more clarifying text regarding the lack of copyright on the images. You might have noticed I've prefixed the file names with the name of the AI engine and not the user uploading the file. This is not rule, but it's an effort to not give the impression that I should be given much credit for the creation of an AI image. --[[User:Hyarion|Hyarion]] ([[User talk:Hyarion|talk]]) 14:01, 6 September 2023 (UTC)

::Well, no particular image in my mind but in general the same reason you use AI – no other pictures available Tik Tik 17:19, 6 September 2023 (UTC)

:::I'd say go for it then. I'm interested to see the result. --[[User:Hyarion|Hyarion]] ([[User talk:Hyarion|talk]]) 22:05, 6 September 2023 (UTC)
::::Well, thank you! And [https://kontu.wiki/Tiedosto:900px-Midjourney_-_Tati%C3%AB_and_Tata.png here] is the first image in Kontuwiki. I hope it's fine like this. Tik
::::And this is what it looks like in an article ([https://kontu.wiki/Tata Tata]) Tik

::::: It looks great. Check out [[:Category:Images by AI]] if you're interested in more - as far as I'm concerned, any images prompted by me are yours to do as you please: '''however, keep in mind that those images were generated by Hyarion, so you should ask his permission first, as well as Lorenzo's, since he too prompted, modified and altered many of the AI prompts.''' - [[User:IvarTheBoneless|IvarTheBoneless]] ([[User talk:IvarTheBoneless|talk]]) 11:17, 7 September 2023 (UTC)
:::::Well, recently the US court accorded AI image cannot have copyrights, so anyone is (legally) free to appropiate our AI images. But it is kind to ask for permission and provide the source of the images. I give my total consent to have my modified images used by anyone. [[User:LorenzoCB|LorenzoCB]] ([[User talk:LorenzoCB|talk]]) 11:54, 7 September 2023 (UTC)
::::::Seconded. [[User:Hyarion|Hyarion]] ([[User talk:Hyarion|talk]]) 14:42, 7 September 2023 (UTC)
:::::::Thanks again!
:::::::Tik Tik 19:02, 7 September 2023 (UTC)

== Reply to Discussion on "The Council of Elrond" ==

Apologies for posting here; I've been trying to post on the relevant discussion page, but I keep getting server error HTTP 403 every time I try to post. I hope it goes through here, and maybe you can copy my text there.

I absolutely agree with the length problem on this particular summary. The only problem is that this is ''not'' meant to be a synopsis (the blurb at the top of the article is that; just a single paragraph long), but a recapitulation. I've been trying to include much of the factual information from each chapter as well as an outline of its narrative structure both on its own and in relation to the rest of the book. It's worked moderately well for previous chapters, but this particular chapter is incredibly dense compared to any of the ones that preceded it: practically every paragraph in the original text contains new information, lore, or character development.

As I've said in the past, I would very much welcome help in paring down the text, though I always argue that it should be discussed in advance to make sure that specific important things aren't removed - such as information that would not be contained in any other article. The point of writing recapitulations is to describe the narrative, after all, as opposed to in-universe articles. But given the size of this monster, it might need a machete rather than a surgical knife.

I should point out, however, that despite its monstrous size this summary is still significantly shorter than the original text. It is ''not'' necessarily preferable to read the chapter itself; a recapitulation distills the information to the point where you can browse through points rather quickly, locating a specific piece of information you've been looking for within the narrative without having to decipher the narrative yourself. If this summary fails to do so, that would be a problem with my writing (not with the current size of the recap), and you would be very welcome to step in and fix that without any discussion.

--[[User:Headrock|Headrock]] ([[User talk:Headrock|talk]]) 15:52, 16 September 2023 (UTC)

The Council of Elrond

2023-09-16T04:55:33Z

Headrock: /* Summary */ Typo. Probably my last minor edit on this article.

{{disambig-more|The Council of Elrond|[[The Council of Elrond (disambiguation)]]}}
{{chapter
| image=Peter Xavier Price - The Lord of Rivendell.jpg
| title=The Council of Elrond
| book=The Fellowship of the Ring
| number=14
| event=The [[Council of Elrond]] is held; [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] volunteers to take the [[The One Ring|

Ring]] to [[Mordor]].
| date=[[25 October]] {{TA|3018|n}}
| location=[[Rivendell]]
| perspective=[[Frodo Baggins]]
| previous=Many Meetings
| next=The Ring Goes South
}}

'''The Council of Elrond''' is the second chapter of the second book in ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.

In this chapter, the visitors to [[Rivendell]] assemble to discuss the matter of the [[One Ring]]. Each, in turn, tells news of their lands, recent events, and the reasons that had brought them to Rivendell. Finally [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] reveals the One Ring and its accompanying doom. [[Gandalf]] describes the capture of [[Gollum]], and his own imprisonment at [[Orthanc]]. A decision is made to take the One Ring to [[Mordor]], where it must be destroyed. Frodo volunteers to carry the Ring there, and when [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]] objects to him going alone, he is drafted to accompany Frodo on his task.

==Summary==

The next morning, [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] and [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]] take a walk in [[Rivendell]] and run into [[Gandalf]] and [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]]. Frodo wants to explore the wilderness around the town, but Gandalf says it will have to wait until after the [[Council of Elrond|great council]], which is about to commence. At that moment, a bell rings out to summon all to the meeting. Sam follows the others even though he was not invited.

The council takes place on the same porch where Frodo had reunited with [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] and [[Peregrin Took|Pippin]] the previous evening. Among the many attendants, Frodo spots [[Elrond]], [[Glorfindel]] and [[Glóin]], as well as [[Strider]] wearing his worn travel clothes again. Gandalf introduces Frodo to the attendants:

{{quote|Here, my friends, is the hobbit, Frodo son of Drogo. Few have ever come hither through greater peril or on an errand more urgent.|[[Gandalf]]}}

Gandalf points out several important figures to Frodo: Glóin's son, [[Gimli]]; [[Erestor]], Elrond's chief counselor; [[Galdor]], a messenger from [[Cirdan the Shipwright]] of the [[Grey Havens]]; and [[Legolas]], son of [[Thranduil]], King of the Elves of [[Mirkwood]]. Frodo also notes a [[Men|Man]] sitting apart from the others, wearing rich but travel-worn clothes, and holding a [[Great Horn|great horn]]. Gandalf says the man's name is [[Boromir]], and that he had arrived that morning from the south, seeking counsel.

Many tales are told about the goings-on in the greater world to the south and east. Frodo had already heard some of this information before, but pays close attention when Glóin begins to speak. Glóin explains that the [[Dwarves]] of [[Erebor]] had grown disquiet, and some decided to attempt to reconquer [[Moria]] under the [[Misty Mountains]].

{{quote|Moria! Moria! Wonder of the Northern world! Too deep we delved there, and woke the nameless fear. Long have its vast mansions lain empty since the children of Durin fled. But now we spoke of it again with longing, and yet with dread; for no dwarf has dared to pass the doors of Khazad-dûm for many lives of kings, save Thrór only, and he perished.|[[Glóin]]}}

Glóin explains that thirty years prior, against King [[Dáin]]'s wishes, [[Balin]] took [[Ori]] and [[Óin]] together with a multitude of other Dwarves on a quest to retake the city. While news at first indicated that they had been successful and prosperous, the messages soon ceased.

According to Glóin, one year ago a messenger from [[Mordor]] arrived at Erebor. The messenger wanted to forge a friendship between [[Sauron]] and the Dwarves. He began asking questions about creatures called [[Hobbits]] - what they were and where they lived - and indicated that Sauron knows that the Dwarves have met one.

{{quote|As a small token only of your friendship Sauron asks this: that you should find this thief, and get from him, willing or no, a little ring, the least of rings, that once he stole. It is but a trifle that Sauron fancies, and an earnest of your good will.|[[Sauron]]'s messenger to [[Erebor]]}}

In return for this information, the messenger promised Dáin three of the lost [[Seven Dwarf-rings|Dwarf-rings]], as well as a guarantee that Moria shall belong to the Dwarves forever. Dáin became very suspicious of this, and refused to give an answer immediately. The messenger gave a veiled threat and rode away. That messenger visited twice more and received the same answer, and then promised to come one final time before the end of the year. The Dwarves have since learned that similar messengers had also been sent to King [[Brand]] of [[Dale]].

The Dwarves and Men of the North now fear that Mordor is about to attack them. Dáin has sent Glóin to Rivendell to warn Bilbo that the Enemy might come for him, and to ask for Elrond's counsel on this matter. Elrond commends Dáin on his decision, but says that the Dwarves have no choice but to resist, with or without hope. He reassures them that they are not alone: the trouble belongs to all of the western world.

Elrond begins to explain the ancient history of [[The One Ring]] in full. First, he tells of how the [[Rings of Power]] were forged during the [[Second Age]] - a tale which we are told was only known in full to few of the listeners. According to Elrond, the Elves of [[Eregion]] and Dwarves of Moria were once friends; but the Elves' eagerness for knowledge made them susceptible to Sauron's charms, who at the time did not appear in his evil form. The Dark Lord learned their arts and crafted the One Ring in secret at [[Orodruin]] to control the others. Only [[Celebrimbor]] suspected him, and hid the [[Three Rings]] that he had created without Sauron's aid. A war ensued, during which the land of Eregion was destroyed and the gate of Moria was shut.

Throughout the rest of the morning, Elrond continues the story of the One Ring during the Second Age. He speaks of the fall of [[Númenor]] and the arrival of [[Men of the West]] in [[Middle-earth]]. He tells of [[Elendil]] and his sons, [[Isildur]] and [[Anárion]], who founded the northern kingdom of [[Arnor]] and southern kingdom of [[Gondor]]. Sauron assaulted their kingdoms, and the [[Last Alliance]] was forged between Elendil and [[Gil-Galad]] to defeat him.

Elrond says he remembers those days clearly. Frodo asks how this is possible, as it happened so long ago. Elrond briefly explains his lineage - descending from [[Eärendil]] and [[Elwing]] - saying that he has lived through all Three Ages of the world.

He goes on to describe the [[Battle of Dagorlad]], at which he was present: the armies of the Last Alliance stood before the [[Black Gate]] of Mordor, and could not be stopped by the evil forces. He tells of the [[Siege of Barad-dûr]] that followed, where Gil-Galad and Elendil were killed. Isildur picked up his father's broken sword, [[Narsil]], and with it cut the Ring from Sauron's hand, destroying the Dark Lord and taking the Ring for himself.

At this, Boromir suddenly interjects, surprised to hear that Isildur took the Ring; the story had been forgotten to his people, who thought that the Ring had been destroyed that day. Elrond says that he witnessed the event personally: together with Cirdan he tried to convince Isildur to destroy the Ring, then and there; however Isildur refused, claiming the Ring as compensation for his father's and brother's deaths. Elrond then speaks of Isildur's ambush by [[Orcs]] at the [[Gladden Fields]], where he lost the Ring. He notes that Isildur's squire, [[Ohtar]], survived the ambush and brought the broken shards of Narsil back to Rivendell, where Isildur's heir [[Valandil]] lived under supervision, as he was only a child at the time.

Elrond concludes the story, saying that because the Ring was not destroyed, Sauron was not wholly destroyed either. He explains that Elves and Men have grown estranged since, and that the race of Númenor has decayed: now men live shorter lives, and the Elves are decreasing in numbers. The city of [[Annúminas]] fell into ruin, and the heirs of Valandil moved to [[Fornost]], which was eventually destroyed by the forces of [[Angmar]].

Elrond now describes the annals of the realm of Gondor to the south, which still endures. Its capital once resided in [[Osgiliath]], astride both sides of the [[Anduin|Great River]]. The Men of Gondor built [[Minas Ithil]], a tower on the western slopes of the [[Ephel Dúath|Mountains of Shadow]], to guard against the evil creatures of Mordor. They then built the corresponding tower of [[Minas Anor]] on the eastern end of the [[White Mountains]]. At the top of Minas Anor was planted a [[White Tree of Gondor|white tree]], descended from a tree that once grew in the [[Valinor|Uttermost West]] in the early days of the world. Eventually, the line of kings [[Anárion]] and [[Meneldil]] failed, Númenorean blood mingled with that of "lesser men", and the tree withered. The men of Gondor failed in their vigil against Mordor, resulting in foul creatures conquering Minas Ithil (now renamed [[Minas Morgul]], the Tower of Sorcery). Minas Anor was renamed [[Minas Tirith]] (the Tower of Guard), Osgiliath was evacuated of its population, and Gondor and Mordor have been at war with each other ever since.

As Elrond finishes speaking, Boromir rises and reveals that Gondor is his homeland. He proceeds to inform the others of its current state. He claims that the blood of Númenor has not yet been spent, and that only by the valor of his countrymen in their constant battle against Morgul are the lands beyond Gondor kept safe and peaceful. He warns that Gondor's day of defeat may not be far off, as evil has awoken in Mordor once more. In June earlier this year, the Forces of Mordor invaded and conquered [[Ithilien]] - Gondor's land to the east of the Anduin. Boromir claims that Mordor is now allied with the [[Easterlings]] and [[Haradrim]], and that there is some great power strengthening their armies - a great black horseman whose mere presence inflicts fear on the bravest of men. The Gondorians have since scuttled the bridge connecting both sides of Osgiliath, cutting themselves off from Ithilien but also preventing the enemy from crossing the Anduin there. Boromir and his brother were present at the battle, and made it back across the river with only two soldiers remaining. Boromir fears that Gondor has no other ally now, except Rohan to its west.

Boromir now explains his arrival at Rivendell, saying that he has come to seek Elrond's counsel regarding a dream that he and his brother have experienced. In this dream, shadows and thunder came from the east, but in the west was still a pale light; then he heard a voice crying from the west:

{{quote|Seek for the Sword that was broken;    In Imladris it dwells; There shall be counsels taken    Stronger than Morgul-spells. There shall be shown a token    That Doom is near at hand, For Isildur's Bane shall waken    And the Halfling forth shall stand.|[[Boromir]]'s Dream}}

Boromir and his brother went to their father, [[Denethor]], Lord of Minas Tirith, and consulted with him about this dream. Denethor recognized the name "Imladris" as the home of Elrond, far away to the north. Boromir's brother volunteered to go seek it, but Boromir realized the dangerous nature of the journey and took the quest upon himself instead, despite his father's objections.

At this, Aragorn stands up and places his broken sword on the table, identifying it as the sword mentioned in Boromir's dream. Elrond introduces Aragorn to Boromir and the others as a direct descendant of Isildur himself. Frodo immediately exclaims that the Ring should be given to Aragorn, but Aragorn rejects ownership of it. Elrond instead bids Frodo hold up the Ring for all to see.

Fighting a strong reluctance to reveal the Ring, Frodo eventually does so. Elrond introduces the Ring to the others as "Isildur's Bane" - Sauron's Ruling Ring. Boromir is immediately dismayed, believing that it signals doom for his homeland. Aragorn asks Boromir whether he wishes for the House of Elendil to return to Gondor. Boromir doesn't give a clear answer; he seems desperate, but doubtful.

{{Quote|I was not sent to beg any boon, but to seek only the meaning of a riddle. Yet we are hard pressed, and the Sword of Elendil would be a help beyond our hope - if such a thing could indeed return out of the shadows of the past.|[[Boromir]]}}

Bilbo leaps up and recites the [[Riddle of Strider]] aloud, which concludes with the line "The crownless again shall be king." As he sits back down, he reveals to Frodo that it was he who had written that song after first meeting Aragorn.

Aragorn explains a little of his own background to Boromir, saying that Narsil has been passed down diligently from Valandil to each of his successive heirs, ending up with Aragorn. He forgives Boromir for doubting him, admitting that he seems nothing like Isildur or the kings of old, but claims to have made many journeys and fought many servants of the Enemy; just like Gondor in the South, the Dúnedain have been protecting the lands in the north. He tells Boromir that the Dúnedain's job has been even more thankless than Gondor's, as they are given scornful names by the very people they protect, and their work must always be kept secret from the simple folk.

Aragorn concludes by announcing that he will come to Minas Tirith to aid in the coming battle. Boromir expresses doubts about the Ring's identity, asking many questions about it and the story of its recovery. Bilbo asks to adjourn for refreshments before that story is told, but Elrond asks him to tell his story first. Before Bilbo begins his tale, he apologizes if any of those present (particularly Glóin) have heard him tell it differently before; he was simply hoping to keep the Ring for himself and avoid being called a "thief".

Bilbo recounts his encounter with Gollum in full, and is cut short by Elrond before he can describe his entire journey to Erebor. Elrond then asks Frodo to recount his own experience with the Ring since the day he received it. The other council-members ask many questions as he does so, until all details are recounted and considered. Bilbo remarks to Frodo that they should some day discuss the story in private so that Bilbo could write it down in a book.

Frodo is curious about Gandalf's absence during his journey from [[The Shire]] to Rivendell. Galdor joins Frodo in this inquiry, also asking to know why the [[Wise]] are so sure about the Ring's identity, given the long span of time that had passed between its loss and supposed reappearance. He asks about [[Saruman]]'s absence from the present council, wondering about the White Wizard's opinion on the matter at hand. Elrond calls on Gandalf as the last speaker, to answer these questions.

Gandalf first points out that there is only one ring left that Sauron might still be looking for, given that all of the others are either destroyed, in safe keeping, or in the hands of the [[Nazgûl]]. He also points out that Bilbo found his ring in the same year that Sauron (posing as the "Necromancer") was defeated at his fortress in [[Dol Guldur]] - a suspicious coincidence. Gandalf then reveals that Saruman had rejected the idea that the Ring would ever be found again - claiming it had rolled into the sea by now - and attempted to dissuade the other members of the [[White Council]] from taking any open actions against Sauron. This, Gandalf says, gave Sauron the chance to anticipate their actions and withdraw safely from Dol Guldur to Mordor, where he had already been at work building his strength. Saruman claimed that Sauron's belief that the Ring could still be found was an advantage for the White Council, as Sauron would waste effort trying to find it.

Lulled into inaction by Saruman's words, Gandalf set aside his worries about Bilbo's newfound ring; but doubt kept growing in him. Expecting Gollum to come out of his cave to seek the Ring, Gandalf did spot the creature; but when Gollum evaded him he decided to let the matter go, and did not discuss it with anyone for fear of stirring up needless trouble. However when various spies began congregating around The Shire after Bilbo's birthday party, Gandalf consulted Aragorn, who convinced him to act on his suspicions and go hunting for Gollum together.

Gandalf and Aragorn found traces of Gollum near Mordor, but could not find the creature himself. Then Gandalf was reminded of Saruman's description of the One Ring:

{{quote|The Nine, the Seven, and the Three had each their proper gem. Not so the One. It was round and unadorned, as it were one of the lesser rings; but its maker set marks upon it that the skilled, maybe, could still see and read.|[[Saruman]]'s description of the [[One Ring]], according to [[Gandalf]]}}

Not knowing what those marks might be, Gandalf figured that the only way this information could've reached Saruman was through some account by Isildur - the only person other than Sauron ever known to have definitely held the One Ring. Gandalf therefore set out to Gondor, to study their scrolls and archives. Denethor received him coldly, but allowed him to study the texts nevertheless.

Gandalf reveals that he had found a scroll written by Isildur himself after acquiring the Ring. Boromir confirms that it is common knowledge in Gondor that Isildur returned to Minas Tirith first, and lived with Meneldil for a while before setting off north - at which time he could have written such an account. Gandalf recites from the scroll, where Isildur specifically stated that he was taking the Ring to the northern kingdom and wanted to leave an account of it in Gondor, so that future generations would not forget.

According to the [[Scroll of Isildur]], the Ring had at first scorched Isildur's hand, but quickly cooled and shrank. Before it did, Isildur noted words inscribed into the Ring, which slowly faded over time. He could not read the inscription, which was written in the dark tongue of Mordor using Elvish script, but managed to copy it down before it disappeared. He surmised, correctly, that the script might re-appear if the Ring was ever reintroduced to a source of heat resembling Sauron's burning hand; but Isildur could not bring himself to do so, as the Ring was too valuable to him as an heirloom.

Upon learning this, Gandalf immediately left Minas Tirith heading north. On his way, he received messages from [[Lothlórien]] that Aragorn had managed to capture Gollum. This prompts Aragorn to tell his account of the hunt for Gollum. He had made it to the Black Gate and the [[Morgul Vale]], but could not find Gollum. He despaired and turned homewards, but then found the creature's tracks by chance and followed it into the [[Dead Marshes]], where he finally caught Gollum peering into the water. Gollum bit Aragorn, but would tell him nothing. Gollum was then bound and gagged, and made to walk all the way back to Mirkwood, where he was handed off to the Wood Elves for imprisonment. Gandalf soon arrived, and interrogated the creature at length.

Gandalf confirms that Gollums's story matches the one told by Bilbo just moments earlier. Furthermore, Gollum's interrogation revealed that he had found the ring in the Great River, and had kept it for hundreds of years - far longer than the lifespan of his race. Gandalf notes that only the Great Rings have the power to extend life to such magnitude. Gandalf hopes that this information would put Galdor's doubts to rest regarding the identity of the Ring. Nevertheless, he recounts the text that Isildur had copied down from the ring, and announces that he had performed the test of fire upon it and confirmed the appearance of the same words. Gandalf then recites the part of the [[Ring Verse]] that appeared, causing a shadow to briefly pass over Rivendell and forcing some of the Elves to stop their ears.

Finally, Gandalf reveals that Gollum had made it to Mordor, was captured and tortured there, and revealed all that he knew to Sauron. He surmises that Sauron has already figured out that the Ring is now in Rivendell.
Boromir asks what punishment was inflicted on Gollum. Gandalf says that Gollum had already suffered enough on account of the Ring and the torture in Mordor, and so was left as a prisoner in Mirkwood. He notes that Gollum was capable of much greater feats than his emaciated form might suggest on account of his burning desire for the Ring, and suspects that Gollum was released from Mordor's clutches in order to perform some unknown, nefarious task.

Legolas now joins the conversation for the first time, with alarming news: He was sent to Rivendell from Mirkwood to report that Gollum had escaped their prison. He says that, having learned of Gollum's sad story and heeded Gandalf's hopes that he might still be cured of his condition, the Elves took pity on the creature and moved him out of the dungeons. Glóin grumbles that he and [[Thorin and Company|Thorin's Company]] did not receive such tender mercy during their stay in the Elves' dungeon, forcing Gandalf to interject in order to prevent a quarrel about past grievances.

Legolas continues, describing Gollum's escape. He was taken out for a walk in the forest, and allowed to climb a tall tree he was fond of; however that day he refused to come down for many hours. The Elves stood guard at the bottom of the tree, but at night were suddenly attacked by a large group of Orcs from the mountains. When the Orcs were finally driven off, Gollum's guards were found slain, and he was gone. The Elves surmised that Gollum was somehow aware that the attack was going to occur that day, perhaps through one of Sauron's spies.

According to Legolas, the Elves began searching for Gollum immediately, and found his tracks among those of a large group of Orcs. Unfortunately, the tracks soon disappeared in the vicinity of Dol Guldur, and the Elves were reluctant to keep searching in that direction. He explains that Mirkwood has once again become full of the evil creatures that had previously been driven out after the [[Attack on Dol Guldur]]. Gandalf expresses frustration, but says that Gollum will now play whatever part was destined to him - hopefully one that Sauron has not foreseen.

Finally, Gandalf comes to the story of his own disappearance. In June he had left [[Hobbiton]] for the southern edge of The Shire, where he received news of Mordor's invasion of Ithilien. Hurrying east to [[Bree]], he ran into [[Radagast the Brown]], a fellow [[Wizard]], who had been seeking him. Radagast reported to Gandalf that Nazgûl had been sighted crossing the Great River in secret, on their way westwards, disguised as riders in black. According to Radagast, the Nazgûl had been asking anyone they came across about a land called "Shire". Radagast added that Saruman had sent him on this errand, offering to help if Gandalf wished it. Gandalf hoped that Saruman, who was wise in the ways of the Enemy, had found some weapon to help drive the Nazgûl away. Before Radagast could ride off, Gandalf asked him to have beasts and birds collect information and deliver it directly to [[Orthanc]].

Gandalf stayed that night in Bree, where he decided to ride to [[Isengard]] instead of back to the Shire. He wrote a message to Frodo and left it with his friend [[Barliman Butterbur]] at the [[Prancing Pony]]. He then rode south along the [[Misty Mountains]] to the [[Gap of Rohan]]. Gandalf continues to describe Isengard as a circle of sheer rock enclosing a valley at the southern edge of the Misty Mountains, with a lone tower at its center. As he rode through the heavily-defended gate in the rocky wall, he felt an unexplained trepidation. Reaching the tower, he was greeted by Saruman and let inside. He notes that Saruman was wearing a ring on his finger.

Gandalf asked Saruman for aid, but received only condescention in return. Saruman facetiously wondered what brought Gandalf out of The Shire, indicating that he knew Gandalf was keeping some very important secret from him. When Gandalf reported what he had heard from Radagast, Saruman insulted Radagast and revealed that he was only sent to lure Gandalf to Orthanc. Gandalf then noticed that Saruman was wearing a robe of many colors.

Saruman offered Gandalf a choice. Claiming that the time of the Elves was over, and that the time of Men was beginning, Saruman suggested that the Wizards should be the ones to rule in this new age. For this, he said, they needed to align themselves with the rising power of Middle Earth.

{{quote|A new Power is rising. Against it the old allies and policies will not avail us at all. There is no hope left in Elves or dying Númenor. This then is one choice before you, before us. We may join with that Power. It would be wise, Gandalf. There is hope that way. Its victory is at hand; and there will be rich reward for those that aided it.|[[Saruman]]}}

Saruman then revealed that he had already figured out that Gandalf had been protecting the One Ring in The Shire. He pressed Gandalf to reveal its whereabouts. Gandalf refused to reveal anything, realizing that Saruman and Sauron were now simply two sides of the same coin.

Gandalf was taken to the Pinnacle of Orthanc, where he saw that the once-green valley of Isengard was now filled with pits and forges. Saruman has been mustering an army of Orcs and Wolves, which Gandalf surmised would be used in rivalry to Sauron rather than at his service. He could not escape the tower, and was forced to spend his days in the cold and the smoke billowing from below. Frodo exclaims that he had seen this event in one of his dreams during his journey.

Gandalf's salvation came thanks to the uncorruptible Radagast, who had fortunately merely played the part of an unwitting pawn in Saruman's plans. Radagast did as Gandalf asked, riding east to seek allies. Eventually, he found the [[Great Eagles]], who began to scout the lands around the Misty Mountains and learned of the coming of the Nazgûl and of Gollum's escape from Mirkwood. [[Gwaihir]], fastest of the Great Eagles, came to Isengard to deliver this news, only to find Gandalf at the top of the tower and bear him away from there before Saruman could intervene.

Gwaihir could not take Gandalf very far, so Gandalf decided to be taken to nearby [[Rohan]] where he could acquire a fast horse for the journey back north. Gwaihir assured him that while Rohan had been sending horses as tribute to [[Mordor]], they had not yet allied with the Dark Lord. At [[Edoras]], Gandalf discovered that Saruman's lies had already taken hold, and he was received very coldly. The king ordered him to take a horse and be gone, so Gandalf chose the best steed in the land and rode off.

Aragorn laments this state of affairs in the land of Rohan, but Boromir stands up in their defense, claiming that the [[Rohirrim]] are honorable men and would never give away their beloved horses as tribute. Gandalf agrees, adding that the horse he had chosen is indeed one of their most precious horses: [[Shadowfax]], born in the early days of the world; a horse too fast even for Nazgûl horses to catch, never before ridden by any man. He says that Shadowfax bore him from Rohan all the way to The Shire in the time it took Frodo to reach the [[Barrow-downs]]. Nevertheless, Gandalf could not catch up with the Nazgûl, who were already well ahead of him.

Gandalf reached Hobbiton and had words with [[Gaffer Gamgee]], discovering that Frodo had already left less than a week earlier, and that Black Riders had come looking for him the same night. Gandalf rode on to [[Buckland]] and found it in uproar after the Nazgûl attack on [[Crickhollow]]. At the house, he found Frodo's cape (left there by [[Fatty Bolger]]) and thought the worst had happened. He tracked two Nazgûl to Bree, where he met with Barliman Butterbur. The innkeeper broke down immediately, apologizing for letting the Hobbits continue on with Strider, not realizing that Gandalf had hoped this would happen. Overjoyed at the knowledge that the Hobbits were not captured and were now with Aragorn, Gandalf rested a night at the Prancing Pony. That night, five Black Riders stormed right through Bree, heading east. He surmises that the Black Riders had made a tactical error in splitting their forces to attack Hobbiton and Buckland, leaving the way open to the east for a short time, accidentally letting the Hobbits and Strider through.

Gandalf rode after the Nazgûl in the morning, and intercepted them at Weathertop. The Nazgûl waited for nightfall, and finally attacked. The battle raged through the night, and at sunrise Gandalf escaped to the north, drawing four of the riders away for a while, though they eventually gave up and turned back. Unable to do anything more to help, Gandalf navigated his way across country to Rivendell, and eventually released Shadowfax partway there. He says that he had become good friends with the horse, and that Shadowfax would return to his aid, if he ever called. He finally reached Rivendell only three days before Frodo.

Now that all storied have finally been told, Elrond expresses his dismay at the fall of Saruman, who had been their trusted counsel. However he also expresses great marvel at the resilience of the Hobbits during their journey, and has found Frodo's story most interesting. In particular, he notes that he had forgotten all about [[Tom Bombadil]], whom he calls Iarwain Ben-adar, "oldest and fatherless". He laments not having invited Bombadil to the council, but Gandalf says he would not have come.

Erestor asks whether it would not be wise to give the Ring to Bombadil, on whom it has no effect. Gandalf explains that while Bombadil might agree, he would not understand the importance of the task, and might even lose the Ring eventually. In any case, Gandalf asserts that even Bombadil in his own little realm could not stand up to the full power of Sauron. Glorfindel adds that taking the Ring to Bombadil in secret would also be impossible now.

Galdor agrees with this assessment, claiming that any hope remaining is now here at Rivendell, or at the Grey Havens, or in Lothlórien. Elrond responds that neither he nor those other Elven lands have the power to endure the coming storm. Glorfindel concludes that there are only two options remaining: Send the Ring west over the sea, or destroy it. Elrond counters both options: For one, the Ring cannot be destroyed by any means they possess; and the people of Valinor would not accept the Ring into their care, as it is an evil belonging to Middle-Earth, and thus a problem that the people of Middle-Earth must solve for themselves.

Glorfindel then suggests throwing the Ring into the sea, subverting and fulfilling the lie that Saruman had told them about it. Gandalf counters this by saying that vile creatures in the deep might find and retrieve it, or that the seas might one day shift and bring it back to the surface. He is adamant that a permanent end to the problem must be found. Galdor again agrees, adding that it would be extremely difficult to get the Ring to the sea anyway, with the Enemy still watching the roads there. He asserts that the Nazgûl would soon return with faster riding beasts, and would be expecting the Ring to travel west. He doubts the ability of Gondor to keep the forces of Sauron at bay much longer, and they would eventually break through and come straight for the Grey Havens. Boromir defends his people, saying they still have the strength to fight, but Galdor notes that the Black Riders might bypass Gondor altogether.

Erestor concludes that Glorfindel's earlier assessment was correct: Either they hide the Ring, or find a way to destroy it. Elrond finally speaks, agreeing that the roads to the west are predictable and must be shunned. Therefore, they must go east, to Mordor, to destroy the Ring where it was made.

Boromir interjects, offering a third option: to use the Ring as a weapon, just as Saruman had planned to do for his own ends. Elrond states that the Ring cannot be used, as it is wholly evil and obeys only the Dark Lord who made it. He brings up Saruman's corruption as an example of a once-benevolent and powerful figure consumed by desire for the Ring. He says that even Sauron was not evil in the beginning, and that if any of the Wise were to take the Ring for themselves, they would simply replace him and become evil rulers themselves. He refuses to take the Ring, even to hide it, and so does Gandalf.

Boromir is dismayed, but expresses some hope that the Sword that was Broken might still come to Gondor's aid, if Aragorn proves to be made of the same mettle as his ancestors. He also hopes that others will fight as valiantly as his people do, and Elrond reassures him that they will.

Glóin suggests pooling together the efforts of their disparate kingdoms. In particular, he suggests using the other Rings of Power to aid them in the coming conflict. He notes that one Dwarf-ring - [[Ring of Thrór|Thrór's ring]] - might still be found in Moria, and that perhaps Balin has already found it there. Gandalf reports that this is impossible, as that ring was taken by Saruman from [[Thrór]]'s heir [[Thráin]] during his torture at Dol Guldur. Glóin asks about the Elven-rings, but Elrond dismisses the question offhand. He says that the Three Rings were made without Sauron's involvement, and would serve no purpose as weapons. He adds that if Sauron was ever to regain the One Ring, anything that was gained by the Three would be subverted and ruined anyway. He remarks that this was Sauron's plan all along, and laments that the Three Rings had been created in the first place.

Glóin asks what would happen, then, if the One Ring was destroyed. Elrond responds that no one knows, but hopes that the Three would become free in that case, though they might lose all their power instead. Glorfindel remarks that the Elves are willing to take that risk, if it means ridding Middle-Earth of the threat of Sauron.

The conversation returns to the matter of destroying the Ring. Erestor comments that there is little chance of reaching the Fire where the Ring could be destroyed, calling the idea a "folly". Gandalf retorts that this might actually be an advantage: Sauron understands only the desire for power, and expects anyone who comes across the Ring to use it; he cannot understand a desire to destroy it. As such, the attempt to destroy it might catch him off-guard, at least for a while. Elrond agrees with this assessment, adding:

{{quote|This quest may be attempted by the weak with as much hope as the strong. Yet such is oft the course of deeds that move the wheels of the world: small hands do them because they must, while the eyes of the great are elsewhere.|[[Elrond]]}}

At this, Bilbo stands up, saying that he's received the hint, and volunteers to take the Ring to Mordor himself. He laments only that he might not get the chance to write the ending to his book, which would now have to be amended because he might not "live happily ever after to the end of his days". Boromir is amused by this, but quickly realizes that all others present regard Bilbo's offer with great respect. Gandalf thanks Bilbo for his bravery, but says that Bilbo's part in the story had already ended when he passed on the Ring, except to record the events in a sequel book when the chosen questers eventually come back.

Bilbo asks who those questers will be, then. Silence falls on the council as they ponder the question with heavy hearts. Frodo slowly comes to the realization that the course of events he had dreaded is now inevitable. With great difficulty, he finally speaks:

{{quote|I will take the Ring, though I do not know the way.|[[Frodo Baggins]]}}

Realizing the implications, Elrond tells Frodo that the task may have been appointed for him, and that he might be the only one able to find the way. He ponders this unlikely turn of events, which none of the Wise had foreseen. He tells Frodo that the decision must be his alone, voluntarily, but that if he chose to go he would be counted among the greatest Elf-friends who ever lived, among the likes of [[Hador]], [[Húrin]], [[Túrin]] and [[Beren]].

Suddenly, Sam leaps up from his hiding place, protesting that Frodo must not be sent on this quest alone.

{{quote|No indeed! You at least shall go with him. It is hardly possible to separate you from him, even when he is summoned to a secret council and you are not.|[[Elrond]]}}

At this, Sam sinks to the floor in embarrassment, realizing the pickle he and Frodo have landed themselves in.

==Composition==
Early drafts of the chapter probably were completed near the end of [[1939]]); in that version, the original Fellowship consisted of Gandalf, Boromir, and five Hobbits including "[[Trotter|Peregrin Boffin]]".<ref>{{CG|CG}}, p. xxii</ref>

Later drafts of the chapter were reworked around [[1940]]-[[1941]], with at least three new versions. New material included Aragorn as the [[Heir of Elendil]] and related additions; but since narration was too long,background information was removed to the [[Appendices]] and to another text called ''[[Of the Rings of Power and the Third Age]]''.<ref>{{CG|CG}}, p. xxiii</ref>
{{references}}
[[Category:The Fellowship of the Ring chapters|Council of Elrond]]
[[fi:Elrondin neuvonpito (TSH)]]

The Council of Elrond

2023-09-16T04:51:17Z

Headrock: /* Summary */ Superfluous.

{{disambig-more|The Council of Elrond|[[The Council of Elrond (disambiguation)]]}}
{{chapter
| image=Peter Xavier Price - The Lord of Rivendell.jpg
| title=The Council of Elrond
| book=The Fellowship of the Ring
| number=14
| event=The [[Council of Elrond]] is held; [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] volunteers to take the [[The One Ring|

Ring]] to [[Mordor]].
| date=[[25 October]] {{TA|3018|n}}
| location=[[Rivendell]]
| perspective=[[Frodo Baggins]]
| previous=Many Meetings
| next=The Ring Goes South
}}

'''The Council of Elrond''' is the second chapter of the second book in ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.

In this chapter, the visitors to [[Rivendell]] assemble to discuss the matter of the [[One Ring]]. Each, in turn, tells news of their lands, recent events, and the reasons that had brought them to Rivendell. Finally [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] reveals the One Ring and its accompanying doom. [[Gandalf]] describes the capture of [[Gollum]], and his own imprisonment at [[Orthanc]]. A decision is made to take the One Ring to [[Mordor]], where it must be destroyed. Frodo volunteers to carry the Ring there, and when [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]] objects to him going alone, he is drafted to accompany Frodo on his task.

==Summary==

The next morning, [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] and [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]] take a walk in [[Rivendell]] and run into [[Gandalf]] and [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]]. Frodo wants to explore the wilderness around the town, but Gandalf says it will have to wait until after the [[Council of Elrond|great council]], which is about to commence. At that moment, a bell rings out to summon all to the meeting. Sam follows the others even though he was not invited.

The council takes place on the same porch where Frodo had reunited with [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] and [[Peregrin Took|Pippin]] the previous evening. Among the many attendants, Frodo spots [[Elrond]], [[Glorfindel]] and [[Glóin]], as well as [[Strider]] wearing his worn travel clothes again. Gandalf introduces Frodo to the attendants:

{{quote|Here, my friends, is the hobbit, Frodo son of Drogo. Few have ever come hither though greater peril or on an errand more urgent.|[[Gandalf]]}}

Gandalf points out several important figures to Frodo: Glóin's son, [[Gimli]]; [[Erestor]], Elrond's chief counselor; [[Galdor]], a messenger from [[Cirdan the Shipwright]] of the [[Grey Havens]]; and [[Legolas]], son of [[Thranduil]], King of the Elves of [[Mirkwood]]. Frodo also notes a [[Men|Man]] sitting apart from the others, wearing rich but travel-worn clothes, and holding a [[Great Horn|great horn]]. Gandalf says the man's name is [[Boromir]], and that he had arrived that morning from the south, seeking counsel.

Many tales are told about the goings-on in the greater world to the south and east. Frodo had already heard some of this information before, but pays close attention when Glóin begins to speak. Glóin explains that the [[Dwarves]] of [[Erebor]] had grown disquiet, and some decided to attempt to reconquer [[Moria]] under the [[Misty Mountains]].

{{quote|Moria! Moria! Wonder of the Northern world! Too deep we delved there, and woke the nameless fear. Long have its vast mansions lain empty since the children of Durin fled. But now we spoke of it again with longing, and yet with dread; for no dwarf has dared to pass the doors of Khazad-dûm for many lives of kings, save Thrór only, and he perished.|[[Glóin]]}}

Glóin explains that thirty years prior, against King [[Dáin]]'s wishes, [[Balin]] took [[Ori]] and [[Óin]] together with a multitude of other Dwarves on a quest to retake the city. While news at first indicated that they had been successful and prosperous, the messages soon ceased.

According to Glóin, one year ago a messenger from [[Mordor]] arrived at Erebor. The messenger wanted to forge a friendship between [[Sauron]] and the Dwarves. He began asking questions about creatures called [[Hobbits]] - what they were and where they lived - and indicated that Sauron knows that the Dwarves have met one.

{{quote|As a small token only of your friendship Sauron asks this: that you should find this thief, and get from him, willing or no, a little ring, the least of rings, that once he stole. It is but a trifle that Sauron fancies, and an earnest of your good will.|[[Sauron]]'s messenger to [[Erebor]]}}

In return for this information, the messenger promised Dáin three of the lost [[Seven Dwarf-rings|Dwarf-rings]], as well as a guarantee that Moria shall belong to the Dwarves forever. Dáin became very suspicious of this, and refused to give an answer immediately. The messenger gave a veiled threat and rode away. That messenger visited twice more and received the same answer, and then promised to come one final time before the end of the year. The Dwarves have since learned that similar messengers had also been sent to King [[Brand]] of [[Dale]].

The Dwarves and Men of the North now fear that Mordor is about to attack them. Dáin has sent Glóin to Rivendell to warn Bilbo that the Enemy might come for him, and to ask for Elrond's counsel on this matter. Elrond commends Dáin on his decision, but says that the Dwarves have no choice but to resist, with or without hope. He reassures them that they are not alone: the trouble belongs to all of the western world.

Elrond begins to explain the ancient history of [[The One Ring]] in full. First, he tells of how the [[Rings of Power]] were forged during the [[Second Age]] - a tale which we are told was only known in full to few of the listeners. According to Elrond, the Elves of [[Eregion]] and Dwarves of Moria were once friends; but the Elves' eagerness for knowledge made them susceptible to Sauron's charms, who at the time did not appear in his evil form. The Dark Lord learned their arts and crafted the One Ring in secret at [[Orodruin]] to control the others. Only [[Celebrimbor]] suspected him, and hid the [[Three Rings]] that he had created without Sauron's aid. A war ensued, during which the land of Eregion was destroyed and the gate of Moria was shut.

Throughout the rest of the morning, Elrond continues the story of the One Ring during the Second Age. He speaks of the fall of [[Númenor]] and the arrival of [[Men of the West]] in [[Middle-earth]]. He tells of [[Elendil]] and his sons, [[Isildur]] and [[Anárion]], who founded the northern kingdom of [[Arnor]] and southern kingdom of [[Gondor]]. Sauron assaulted their kingdoms, and the [[Last Alliance]] was forged between Elendil and [[Gil-Galad]] to defeat him.

Elrond says he remembers those days clearly. Frodo asks how this is possible, as it happened so long ago. Elrond briefly explains his lineage - descending from [[Eärendil]] and [[Elwing]] - saying that he has lived through all Three Ages of the world.

He goes on to describe the [[Battle of Dagorlad]], at which he was present: the armies of the Last Alliance stood before the [[Black Gate]] of Mordor, and could not be stopped by the evil forces. He tells of the [[Siege of Barad-dûr]] that followed, where Gil-Galad and Elendil were killed. Isildur picked up his father's broken sword, [[Narsil]], and with it cut the Ring from Sauron's hand, destroying the Dark Lord and taking the Ring for himself.

At this, Boromir suddenly interjects, surprised to hear that Isildur took the Ring; the story had been forgotten to his people, who thought that the Ring had been destroyed that day. Elrond says that he witnessed the event personally: together with Cirdan he tried to convince Isildur to destroy the Ring, then and there; however Isildur refused, claiming the Ring as compensation for his father's and brother's deaths. Elrond then speaks of Isildur's ambush by [[Orcs]] at the [[Gladden Fields]], where he lost the Ring. He notes that Isildur's squire, [[Ohtar]], survived the ambush and brought the broken shards of Narsil back to Rivendell, where Isildur's heir [[Valandil]] lived under supervision, as he was only a child at the time.

Elrond concludes the story, saying that because the Ring was not destroyed, Sauron was not wholly destroyed either. He explains that Elves and Men have grown estranged since, and that the race of Númenor has decayed: now men live shorter lives, and the Elves are decreasing in numbers. The city of [[Annúminas]] fell into ruin, and the heirs of Valandil moved to [[Fornost]], which was eventually destroyed by the forces of [[Angmar]].

Elrond now describes the annals of the realm of Gondor to the south, which still endures. Its capital once resided in [[Osgiliath]], astride both sides of the [[Anduin|Great River]]. The Men of Gondor built [[Minas Ithil]], a tower on the western slopes of the [[Ephel Dúath|Mountains of Shadow]], to guard against the evil creatures of Mordor. They then built the corresponding tower of [[Minas Anor]] on the eastern end of the [[White Mountains]]. At the top of Minas Anor was planted a [[White Tree of Gondor|white tree]], descended from a tree that once grew in the [[Valinor|Uttermost West]] in the early days of the world. Eventually, the line of kings [[Anárion]] and [[Meneldil]] failed, Númenorean blood mingled with that of "lesser men", and the tree withered. The men of Gondor failed in their vigil against Mordor, resulting in foul creatures conquering Minas Ithil (now renamed [[Minas Morgul]], the Tower of Sorcery). Minas Anor was renamed [[Minas Tirith]] (the Tower of Guard), Osgiliath was evacuated of its population, and Gondor and Mordor have been at war with each other ever since.

As Elrond finishes speaking, Boromir rises and reveals that Gondor is his homeland. He proceeds to inform the others of its current state. He claims that the blood of Númenor has not yet been spent, and that only by the valor of his countrymen in their constant battle against Morgul are the lands beyond Gondor kept safe and peaceful. He warns that Gondor's day of defeat may not be far off, as evil has awoken in Mordor once more. In June earlier this year, the Forces of Mordor invaded and conquered [[Ithilien]] - Gondor's land to the east of the Anduin. Boromir claims that Mordor is now allied with the [[Easterlings]] and [[Haradrim]], and that there is some great power strengthening their armies - a great black horseman whose mere presence inflicts fear on the bravest of men. The Gondorians have since scuttled the bridge connecting both sides of Osgiliath, cutting themselves off from Ithilien but also preventing the enemy from crossing the Anduin there. Boromir and his brother were present at the battle, and made it back across the river with only two soldiers remaining. Boromir fears that Gondor has no other ally now, except Rohan to its west.

Boromir now explains his arrival at Rivendell, saying that he has come to seek Elrond's counsel regarding a dream that he and his brother have experienced. In this dream, shadows and thunder came from the east, but in the west was still a pale light; then he heard a voice crying from the west:

{{quote|Seek for the Sword that was broken;    In Imladris it dwells; There shall be counsels taken    Stronger than Morgul-spells. There shall be shown a token    That Doom is near at hand, For Isildur's Bane shall waken    And the Halfling forth shall stand.|[[Boromir]]'s Dream}}

Boromir and his brother went to their father, [[Denethor]], Lord of Minas Tirith, and consulted with him about this dream. Denethor recognized the name "Imladris" as the home of Elrond, far away to the north. Boromir's brother volunteered to go seek it, but Boromir realized the dangerous nature of the journey and took the quest upon himself instead, despite his father's objections.

At this, Aragorn stands up and places his broken sword on the table, identifying it as the sword mentioned in Boromir's dream. Elrond introduces Aragorn to Boromir and the others as a direct descendant of Isildur himself. Frodo immediately exclaims that the Ring should be given to Aragorn, but Aragorn rejects ownership of it. Elrond instead bids Frodo hold up the Ring for all to see.

Fighting a strong reluctance to reveal the Ring, Frodo eventually does so. Elrond introduces the Ring to the others as "Isildur's Bane" - Sauron's Ruling Ring. Boromir is immediately dismayed, believing that it signals doom for his homeland. Aragorn asks Boromir whether he wishes for the House of Elendil to return to Gondor. Boromir doesn't give a clear answer; he seems desperate, but doubtful.

{{Quote|I was not sent to beg any boon, but to seek only the meaning of a riddle. Yet we are hard pressed, and the Sword of Elendil would be a help beyond our hope - if such a thing could indeed return out of the shadows of the past.|[[Boromir]]}}

Bilbo leaps up and recites the [[Riddle of Strider]] aloud, which concludes with the line "The crownless again shall be king." As he sits back down, he reveals to Frodo that it was he who had written that song after first meeting Aragorn.

Aragorn explains a little of his own background to Boromir, saying that Narsil has been passed down diligently from Valandil to each of his successive heirs, ending up with Aragorn. He forgives Boromir for doubting him, admitting that he seems nothing like Isildur or the kings of old, but claims to have made many journeys and fought many servants of the Enemy; just like Gondor in the South, the Dúnedain have been protecting the lands in the north. He tells Boromir that the Dúnedain's job has been even more thankless than Gondor's, as they are given scornful names by the very people they protect, and their work must always be kept secret from the simple folk.

Aragorn concludes by announcing that he will come to Minas Tirith to aid in the coming battle. Boromir expresses doubts about the Ring's identity, asking many questions about it and the story of its recovery. Bilbo asks to adjourn for refreshments before that story is told, but Elrond asks him to tell his story first. Before Bilbo begins his tale, he apologizes if any of those present (particularly Glóin) have heard him tell it differently before; he was simply hoping to keep the Ring for himself and avoid being called a "thief".

Bilbo recounts his encounter with Gollum in full, and is cut short by Elrond before he can describe his entire journey to Erebor. Elrond then asks Frodo to recount his own experience with the Ring since the day he received it. The other council-members ask many questions as he does so, until all details are recounted and considered. Bilbo remarks to Frodo that they should some day discuss the story in private so that Bilbo could write it down in a book.

Frodo is curious about Gandalf's absence during his journey from [[The Shire]] to Rivendell. Galdor joins Frodo in this inquiry, also asking to know why the [[Wise]] are so sure about the Ring's identity, given the long span of time that had passed between its loss and supposed reappearance. He asks about [[Saruman]]'s absence from the present council, wondering about the White Wizard's opinion on the matter at hand. Elrond calls on Gandalf as the last speaker, to answer these questions.

Gandalf first points out that there is only one ring left that Sauron might still be looking for, given that all of the others are either destroyed, in safe keeping, or in the hands of the [[Nazgûl]]. He also points out that Bilbo found his ring in the same year that Sauron (posing as the "Necromancer") was defeated at his fortress in [[Dol Guldur]] - a suspicious coincidence. Gandalf then reveals that Saruman had rejected the idea that the Ring would ever be found again - claiming it had rolled into the sea by now - and attempted to dissuade the other members of the [[White Council]] from taking any open actions against Sauron. This, Gandalf says, gave Sauron the chance to anticipate their actions and withdraw safely from Dol Guldur to Mordor, where he had already been at work building his strength. Saruman claimed that Sauron's belief that the Ring could still be found was an advantage for the White Council, as Sauron would waste effort trying to find it.

Lulled into inaction by Saruman's words, Gandalf set aside his worries about Bilbo's newfound ring; but doubt kept growing in him. Expecting Gollum to come out of his cave to seek the Ring, Gandalf did spot the creature; but when Gollum evaded him he decided to let the matter go, and did not discuss it with anyone for fear of stirring up needless trouble. However when various spies began congregating around The Shire after Bilbo's birthday party, Gandalf consulted Aragorn, who convinced him to act on his suspicions and go hunting for Gollum together.

Gandalf and Aragorn found traces of Gollum near Mordor, but could not find the creature himself. Then Gandalf was reminded of Saruman's description of the One Ring:

{{quote|The Nine, the Seven, and the Three had each their proper gem. Not so the One. It was round and unadorned, as it were one of the lesser rings; but its maker set marks upon it that the skilled, maybe, could still see and read.|[[Saruman]]'s description of the [[One Ring]], according to [[Gandalf]]}}

Not knowing what those marks might be, Gandalf figured that the only way this information could've reached Saruman was through some account by Isildur - the only person other than Sauron ever known to have definitely held the One Ring. Gandalf therefore set out to Gondor, to study their scrolls and archives. Denethor received him coldly, but allowed him to study the texts nevertheless.

Gandalf reveals that he had found a scroll written by Isildur himself after acquiring the Ring. Boromir confirms that it is common knowledge in Gondor that Isildur returned to Minas Tirith first, and lived with Meneldil for a while before setting off north - at which time he could have written such an account. Gandalf recites from the scroll, where Isildur specifically stated that he was taking the Ring to the northern kingdom and wanted to leave an account of it in Gondor, so that future generations would not forget.

According to the [[Scroll of Isildur]], the Ring had at first scorched Isildur's hand, but quickly cooled and shrank. Before it did, Isildur noted words inscribed into the Ring, which slowly faded over time. He could not read the inscription, which was written in the dark tongue of Mordor using Elvish script, but managed to copy it down before it disappeared. He surmised, correctly, that the script might re-appear if the Ring was ever reintroduced to a source of heat resembling Sauron's burning hand; but Isildur could not bring himself to do so, as the Ring was too valuable to him as an heirloom.

Upon learning this, Gandalf immediately left Minas Tirith heading north. On his way, he received messages from [[Lothlórien]] that Aragorn had managed to capture Gollum. This prompts Aragorn to tell his account of the hunt for Gollum. He had made it to the Black Gate and the [[Morgul Vale]], but could not find Gollum. He despaired and turned homewards, but then found the creature's tracks by chance and followed it into the [[Dead Marshes]], where he finally caught Gollum peering into the water. Gollum bit Aragorn, but would tell him nothing. Gollum was then bound and gagged, and made to walk all the way back to Mirkwood, where he was handed off to the Wood Elves for imprisonment. Gandalf soon arrived, and interrogated the creature at length.

Gandalf confirms that Gollums's story matches the one told by Bilbo just moments earlier. Furthermore, Gollum's interrogation revealed that he had found the ring in the Great River, and had kept it for hundreds of years - far longer than the lifespan of his race. Gandalf notes that only the Great Rings have the power to extend life to such magnitude. Gandalf hopes that this information would put Galdor's doubts to rest regarding the identity of the Ring. Nevertheless, he recounts the text that Isildur had copied down from the ring, and announces that he had performed the test of fire upon it and confirmed the appearance of the same words. Gandalf then recites the part of the [[Ring Verse]] that appeared, causing a shadow to briefly pass over Rivendell and forcing some of the Elves to stop their ears.

Finally, Gandalf reveals that Gollum had made it to Mordor, was captured and tortured there, and revealed all that he knew to Sauron. He surmises that Sauron has already figured out that the Ring is now in Rivendell.
Boromir asks what punishment was inflicted on Gollum. Gandalf says that Gollum had already suffered enough on account of the Ring and the torture in Mordor, and so was left as a prisoner in Mirkwood. He notes that Gollum was capable of much greater feats than his emaciated form might suggest on account of his burning desire for the Ring, and suspects that Gollum was released from Mordor's clutches in order to perform some unknown, nefarious task.

Legolas now joins the conversation for the first time, with alarming news: He was sent to Rivendell from Mirkwood to report that Gollum had escaped their prison. He says that, having learned of Gollum's sad story and heeded Gandalf's hopes that he might still be cured of his condition, the Elves took pity on the creature and moved him out of the dungeons. Glóin grumbles that he and [[Thorin and Company|Thorin's Company]] did not receive such tender mercy during their stay in the Elves' dungeon, forcing Gandalf to interject in order to prevent a quarrel about past grievances.

Legolas continues, describing Gollum's escape. He was taken out for a walk in the forest, and allowed to climb a tall tree he was fond of; however that day he refused to come down for many hours. The Elves stood guard at the bottom of the tree, but at night were suddenly attacked by a large group of Orcs from the mountains. When the Orcs were finally driven off, Gollum's guards were found slain, and he was gone. The Elves surmised that Gollum was somehow aware that the attack was going to occur that day, perhaps through one of Sauron's spies.

According to Legolas, the Elves began searching for Gollum immediately, and found his tracks among those of a large group of Orcs. Unfortunately, the tracks soon disappeared in the vicinity of Dol Guldur, and the Elves were reluctant to keep searching in that direction. He explains that Mirkwood has once again become full of the evil creatures that had previously been driven out after the [[Attack on Dol Guldur]]. Gandalf expresses frustration, but says that Gollum will now play whatever part was destined to him - hopefully one that Sauron has not foreseen.

Finally, Gandalf comes to the story of his own disappearance. In June he had left [[Hobbiton]] for the southern edge of The Shire, where he received news of Mordor's invasion of Ithilien. Hurrying east to [[Bree]], he ran into [[Radagast the Brown]], a fellow [[Wizard]], who had been seeking him. Radagast reported to Gandalf that Nazgûl had been sighted crossing the Great River in secret, on their way westwards, disguised as riders in black. According to Radagast, the Nazgûl had been asking anyone they came across about a land called "Shire". Radagast added that Saruman had sent him on this errand, offering to help if Gandalf wished it. Gandalf hoped that Saruman, who was wise in the ways of the Enemy, had found some weapon to help drive the Nazgûl away. Before Radagast could ride off, Gandalf asked him to have beasts and birds collect information and deliver it directly to [[Orthanc]].

Gandalf stayed that night in Bree, where he decided to ride to [[Isengard]] instead of back to the Shire. He wrote a message to Frodo and left it with his friend [[Barliman Butterbur]] at the [[Prancing Pony]]. He then rode south along the [[Misty Mountains]] to the [[Gap of Rohan]]. Gandalf continues to describe Isengard as a circle of sheer rock enclosing a valley at the southern edge of the Misty Mountains, with a lone tower at its center. As he rode through the heavily-defended gate in the rocky wall, he felt an unexplained trepidation. Reaching the tower, he was greeted by Saruman and let inside. He notes that Saruman was wearing a ring on his finger.

Gandalf asked Saruman for aid, but received only condescention in return. Saruman facetiously wondered what brought Gandalf out of The Shire, indicating that he knew Gandalf was keeping some very important secret from him. When Gandalf reported what he had heard from Radagast, Saruman insulted Radagast and revealed that he was only sent to lure Gandalf to Orthanc. Gandalf then noticed that Saruman was wearing a robe of many colors.

Saruman offered Gandalf a choice. Claiming that the time of the Elves was over, and that the time of Men was beginning, Saruman suggested that the Wizards should be the ones to rule in this new age. For this, he said, they needed to align themselves with the rising power of Middle Earth.

{{quote|A new Power is rising. Against it the old allies and policies will not avail us at all. There is no hope left in Elves or dying Númenor. This then is one choice before you, before us. We may join with that Power. It would be wise, Gandalf. There is hope that way. Its victory is at hand; and there will be rich reward for those that aided it.|[[Saruman]]}}

Saruman then revealed that he had already figured out that Gandalf had been protecting the One Ring in The Shire. He pressed Gandalf to reveal its whereabouts. Gandalf refused to reveal anything, realizing that Saruman and Sauron were now simply two sides of the same coin.

Gandalf was taken to the Pinnacle of Orthanc, where he saw that the once-green valley of Isengard was now filled with pits and forges. Saruman has been mustering an army of Orcs and Wolves, which Gandalf surmised would be used in rivalry to Sauron rather than at his service. He could not escape the tower, and was forced to spend his days in the cold and the smoke billowing from below. Frodo exclaims that he had seen this event in one of his dreams during his journey.

Gandalf's salvation came thanks to the uncorruptible Radagast, who had fortunately merely played the part of an unwitting pawn in Saruman's plans. Radagast did as Gandalf asked, riding east to seek allies. Eventually, he found the [[Great Eagles]], who began to scout the lands around the Misty Mountains and learned of the coming of the Nazgûl and of Gollum's escape from Mirkwood. [[Gwaihir]], fastest of the Great Eagles, came to Isengard to deliver this news, only to find Gandalf at the top of the tower and bear him away from there before Saruman could intervene.

Gwaihir could not take Gandalf very far, so Gandalf decided to be taken to nearby [[Rohan]] where he could acquire a fast horse for the journey back north. Gwaihir assured him that while Rohan had been sending horses as tribute to [[Mordor]], they had not yet allied with the Dark Lord. At [[Edoras]], Gandalf discovered that Saruman's lies had already taken hold, and he was received very coldly. The king ordered him to take a horse and be gone, so Gandalf chose the best steed in the land and rode off.

Aragorn laments this state of affairs in the land of Rohan, but Boromir stands up in their defense, claiming that the [[Rohirrim]] are honorable men and would never give away their beloved horses as tribute. Gandalf agrees, adding that the horse he had chosen is indeed one of their most precious horses: [[Shadowfax]], born in the early days of the world; a horse too fast even for Nazgûl horses to catch, never before ridden by any man. He says that Shadowfax bore him from Rohan all the way to The Shire in the time it took Frodo to reach the [[Barrow-downs]]. Nevertheless, Gandalf could not catch up with the Nazgûl, who were already well ahead of him.

Gandalf reached Hobbiton and had words with [[Gaffer Gamgee]], discovering that Frodo had already left less than a week earlier, and that Black Riders had come looking for him the same night. Gandalf rode on to [[Buckland]] and found it in uproar after the Nazgûl attack on [[Crickhollow]]. At the house, he found Frodo's cape (left there by [[Fatty Bolger]]) and thought the worst had happened. He tracked two Nazgûl to Bree, where he met with Barliman Butterbur. The innkeeper broke down immediately, apologizing for letting the Hobbits continue on with Strider, not realizing that Gandalf had hoped this would happen. Overjoyed at the knowledge that the Hobbits were not captured and were now with Aragorn, Gandalf rested a night at the Prancing Pony. That night, five Black Riders stormed right through Bree, heading east. He surmises that the Black Riders had made a tactical error in splitting their forces to attack Hobbiton and Buckland, leaving the way open to the east for a short time, accidentally letting the Hobbits and Strider through.

Gandalf rode after the Nazgûl in the morning, and intercepted them at Weathertop. The Nazgûl waited for nightfall, and finally attacked. The battle raged through the night, and at sunrise Gandalf escaped to the north, drawing four of the riders away for a while, though they eventually gave up and turned back. Unable to do anything more to help, Gandalf navigated his way across country to Rivendell, and eventually released Shadowfax partway there. He says that he had become good friends with the horse, and that Shadowfax would return to his aid, if he ever called. He finally reached Rivendell only three days before Frodo.

Now that all storied have finally been told, Elrond expresses his dismay at the fall of Saruman, who had been their trusted counsel. However he also expresses great marvel at the resilience of the Hobbits during their journey, and has found Frodo's story most interesting. In particular, he notes that he had forgotten all about [[Tom Bombadil]], whom he calls Iarwain Ben-adar, "oldest and fatherless". He laments not having invited Bombadil to the council, but Gandalf says he would not have come.

Erestor asks whether it would not be wise to give the Ring to Bombadil, on whom it has no effect. Gandalf explains that while Bombadil might agree, he would not understand the importance of the task, and might even lose the Ring eventually. In any case, Gandalf asserts that even Bombadil in his own little realm could not stand up to the full power of Sauron. Glorfindel adds that taking the Ring to Bombadil in secret would also be impossible now.

Galdor agrees with this assessment, claiming that any hope remaining is now here at Rivendell, or at the Grey Havens, or in Lothlórien. Elrond responds that neither he nor those other Elven lands have the power to endure the coming storm. Glorfindel concludes that there are only two options remaining: Send the Ring west over the sea, or destroy it. Elrond counters both options: For one, the Ring cannot be destroyed by any means they possess; and the people of Valinor would not accept the Ring into their care, as it is an evil belonging to Middle-Earth, and thus a problem that the people of Middle-Earth must solve for themselves.

Glorfindel then suggests throwing the Ring into the sea, subverting and fulfilling the lie that Saruman had told them about it. Gandalf counters this by saying that vile creatures in the deep might find and retrieve it, or that the seas might one day shift and bring it back to the surface. He is adamant that a permanent end to the problem must be found. Galdor again agrees, adding that it would be extremely difficult to get the Ring to the sea anyway, with the Enemy still watching the roads there. He asserts that the Nazgûl would soon return with faster riding beasts, and would be expecting the Ring to travel west. He doubts the ability of Gondor to keep the forces of Sauron at bay much longer, and they would eventually break through and come straight for the Grey Havens. Boromir defends his people, saying they still have the strength to fight, but Galdor notes that the Black Riders might bypass Gondor altogether.

Erestor concludes that Glorfindel's earlier assessment was correct: Either they hide the Ring, or find a way to destroy it. Elrond finally speaks, agreeing that the roads to the west are predictable and must be shunned. Therefore, they must go east, to Mordor, to destroy the Ring where it was made.

Boromir interjects, offering a third option: to use the Ring as a weapon, just as Saruman had planned to do for his own ends. Elrond states that the Ring cannot be used, as it is wholly evil and obeys only the Dark Lord who made it. He brings up Saruman's corruption as an example of a once-benevolent and powerful figure consumed by desire for the Ring. He says that even Sauron was not evil in the beginning, and that if any of the Wise were to take the Ring for themselves, they would simply replace him and become evil rulers themselves. He refuses to take the Ring, even to hide it, and so does Gandalf.

Boromir is dismayed, but expresses some hope that the Sword that was Broken might still come to Gondor's aid, if Aragorn proves to be made of the same mettle as his ancestors. He also hopes that others will fight as valiantly as his people do, and Elrond reassures him that they will.

Glóin suggests pooling together the efforts of their disparate kingdoms. In particular, he suggests using the other Rings of Power to aid them in the coming conflict. He notes that one Dwarf-ring - [[Ring of Thrór|Thrór's ring]] - might still be found in Moria, and that perhaps Balin has already found it there. Gandalf reports that this is impossible, as that ring was taken by Saruman from [[Thrór]]'s heir [[Thráin]] during his torture at Dol Guldur. Glóin asks about the Elven-rings, but Elrond dismisses the question offhand. He says that the Three Rings were made without Sauron's involvement, and would serve no purpose as weapons. He adds that if Sauron was ever to regain the One Ring, anything that was gained by the Three would be subverted and ruined anyway. He remarks that this was Sauron's plan all along, and laments that the Three Rings had been created in the first place.

Glóin asks what would happen, then, if the One Ring was destroyed. Elrond responds that no one knows, but hopes that the Three would become free in that case, though they might lose all their power instead. Glorfindel remarks that the Elves are willing to take that risk, if it means ridding Middle-Earth of the threat of Sauron.

The conversation returns to the matter of destroying the Ring. Erestor comments that there is little chance of reaching the Fire where the Ring could be destroyed, calling the idea a "folly". Gandalf retorts that this might actually be an advantage: Sauron understands only the desire for power, and expects anyone who comes across the Ring to use it; he cannot understand a desire to destroy it. As such, the attempt to destroy it might catch him off-guard, at least for a while. Elrond agrees with this assessment, adding:

{{quote|This quest may be attempted by the weak with as much hope as the strong. Yet such is oft the course of deeds that move the wheels of the world: small hands do them because they must, while the eyes of the great are elsewhere.|[[Elrond]]}}

At this, Bilbo stands up, saying that he's received the hint, and volunteers to take the Ring to Mordor himself. He laments only that he might not get the chance to write the ending to his book, which would now have to be amended because he might not "live happily ever after to the end of his days". Boromir is amused by this, but quickly realizes that all others present regard Bilbo's offer with great respect. Gandalf thanks Bilbo for his bravery, but says that Bilbo's part in the story had already ended when he passed on the Ring, except to record the events in a sequel book when the chosen questers eventually come back.

Bilbo asks who those questers will be, then. Silence falls on the council as they ponder the question with heavy hearts. Frodo slowly comes to the realization that the course of events he had dreaded is now inevitable. With great difficulty, he finally speaks:

{{quote|I will take the Ring, though I do not know the way.|[[Frodo Baggins]]}}

Realizing the implications, Elrond tells Frodo that the task may have been appointed for him, and that he might be the only one able to find the way. He ponders this unlikely turn of events, which none of the Wise had foreseen. He tells Frodo that the decision must be his alone, voluntarily, but that if he chose to go he would be counted among the greatest Elf-friends who ever lived, among the likes of [[Hador]], [[Húrin]], [[Túrin]] and [[Beren]].

Suddenly, Sam leaps up from his hiding place, protesting that Frodo must not be sent on this quest alone.

{{quote|No indeed! You at least shall go with him. It is hardly possible to separate you from him, even when he is summoned to a secret council and you are not.|[[Elrond]]}}

At this, Sam sinks to the floor in embarrassment, realizing the pickle he and Frodo have landed themselves in.

==Composition==
Early drafts of the chapter probably were completed near the end of [[1939]]); in that version, the original Fellowship consisted of Gandalf, Boromir, and five Hobbits including "[[Trotter|Peregrin Boffin]]".<ref>{{CG|CG}}, p. xxii</ref>

Later drafts of the chapter were reworked around [[1940]]-[[1941]], with at least three new versions. New material included Aragorn as the [[Heir of Elendil]] and related additions; but since narration was too long,background information was removed to the [[Appendices]] and to another text called ''[[Of the Rings of Power and the Third Age]]''.<ref>{{CG|CG}}, p. xxiii</ref>
{{references}}
[[Category:The Fellowship of the Ring chapters|Council of Elrond]]
[[fi:Elrondin neuvonpito (TSH)]]

The Council of Elrond

2023-09-16T04:46:49Z

Headrock: /* Summary */ typo.

{{disambig-more|The Council of Elrond|[[The Council of Elrond (disambiguation)]]}}
{{chapter
| image=Peter Xavier Price - The Lord of Rivendell.jpg
| title=The Council of Elrond
| book=The Fellowship of the Ring
| number=14
| event=The [[Council of Elrond]] is held; [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] volunteers to take the [[The One Ring|

Ring]] to [[Mordor]].
| date=[[25 October]] {{TA|3018|n}}
| location=[[Rivendell]]
| perspective=[[Frodo Baggins]]
| previous=Many Meetings
| next=The Ring Goes South
}}

'''The Council of Elrond''' is the second chapter of the second book in ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.

In this chapter, the visitors to [[Rivendell]] assemble to discuss the matter of the [[One Ring]]. Each, in turn, tells news of their lands, recent events, and the reasons that had brought them to Rivendell. Finally [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] reveals the One Ring and its accompanying doom. [[Gandalf]] describes the capture of [[Gollum]], and his own imprisonment at [[Orthanc]]. A decision is made to take the One Ring to [[Mordor]], where it must be destroyed. Frodo volunteers to carry the Ring there, and when [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]] objects to him going alone, he is drafted to accompany Frodo on his task.

==Summary==

The next morning, [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] and [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]] take a walk in [[Rivendell]] and run into [[Gandalf]] and [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]]. Frodo wants to explore the wilderness around the town, but Gandalf says it will have to wait until after the [[Council of Elrond|great council]], which is about to commence. At that moment, a bell rings out to summon all to the meeting. Sam follows the others even though he was not invited.

The council takes place on the same porch where Frodo had reunited with [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] and [[Peregrin Took|Pippin]] the previous evening. Among the many attendants, Frodo spots [[Elrond]], [[Glorfindel]] and [[Glóin]], as well as [[Strider]] wearing his worn travel clothes again. Gandalf introduces Frodo to the attendants:

{{quote|Here, my friends, is the hobbit, Frodo son of Drogo. Few have ever come hither though greater peril or on an errand more urgent.|[[Gandalf]]}}

Gandalf points out several important figures to Frodo: Glóin's son, [[Gimli]]; [[Erestor]], Elrond's chief counselor; [[Galdor]], a messenger from [[Cirdan the Shipwright]] of the [[Grey Havens]]; and [[Legolas]], son of [[Thranduil]], King of the Elves of [[Mirkwood]]. Frodo also notes a [[Men|Man]] sitting apart from the others, wearing rich but travel-worn clothes, and holding a [[Great Horn|great horn]]. Gandalf says the man's name is [[Boromir]], and that he had arrived that morning from the south, seeking counsel.

Many tales are told about the goings-on in the greater world to the south and east. Frodo had already heard some of this information before, but pays close attention when Glóin begins to speak. Glóin explains that the [[Dwarves]] of [[Erebor]] had grown disquiet, and some decided to attempt to reconquer [[Moria]] under the [[Misty Mountains]].

{{quote|Moria! Moria! Wonder of the Northern world! Too deep we delved there, and woke the nameless fear. Long have its vast mansions lain empty since the children of Durin fled. But now we spoke of it again with longing, and yet with dread; for no dwarf has dared to pass the doors of Khazad-dûm for many lives of kings, save Thrór only, and he perished.|[[Glóin]]}}

Glóin explains that thirty years prior, against King [[Dáin]]'s wishes, [[Balin]] took [[Ori]] and [[Óin]] together with a multitude of other Dwarves on a quest to retake the city. While news at first indicated that they had been successful and prosperous, the messages soon ceased.

According to Glóin, one year ago a messenger from [[Mordor]] arrived at Erebor. The messenger wanted to forge a friendship between [[Sauron]] and the Dwarves. He began asking questions about creatures called [[Hobbits]] - what they were and where they lived - and indicated that Sauron knows that the Dwarves have met one.

{{quote|As a small token only of your friendship Sauron asks this: that you should find this thief, and get from him, willing or no, a little ring, the least of rings, that once he stole. It is but a trifle that Sauron fancies, and an earnest of your good will.|[[Sauron]]'s messenger to [[Erebor]]}}

In return for this information, the messenger promised Dáin three of the lost [[Seven Dwarf-rings|Dwarf-rings]], as well as a guarantee that Moria shall belong to the Dwarves forever. Dáin became very suspicious of this, and refused to give an answer immediately. The messenger gave a veiled threat and rode away. That messenger visited twice more and received the same answer, and then promised to come one final time before the end of the year. The Dwarves have since learned that similar messengers had also been sent to King [[Brand]] of [[Dale]].

The Dwarves and Men of the North now fear that Mordor is about to attack them. Dáin has sent Glóin to Rivendell to warn Bilbo that the Enemy might come for him, and to ask for Elrond's counsel on this matter. Elrond commends Dáin on his decision, but says that the Dwarves have no choice but to resist, with or without hope. He reassures them that they are not alone: the trouble belongs to all of the western world.

Elrond begins to explain the ancient history of [[The One Ring]] in full. First, he tells of how the [[Rings of Power]] were forged during the [[Second Age]] - a tale which we are told was only known in full to few of the listeners. According to Elrond, the Elves of [[Eregion]] and Dwarves of Moria were once friends; but the Elves' eagerness for knowledge made them susceptible to Sauron's charms, who at the time did not appear in his evil form. The Dark Lord learned their arts and crafted the One Ring in secret at [[Orodruin]] to control the others. Only [[Celebrimbor]] suspected him, and hid the [[Three Rings]] that he had created without Sauron's aid. A war ensued, during which the land of Eregion was destroyed and the gate of Moria was shut.

Throughout the rest of the morning, Elrond continues the story of the One Ring during the Second Age. He speaks of the fall of [[Númenor]] and the arrival of [[Men of the West]] in [[Middle-earth]]. He tells of [[Elendil]] and his sons, [[Isildur]] and [[Anárion]], who founded the northern kingdom of [[Arnor]] and southern kingdom of [[Gondor]]. Sauron assaulted their kingdoms, and the [[Last Alliance]] was forged between Elendil and [[Gil-Galad]] to defeat him.

Elrond says he remembers those days clearly. Frodo asks how this is possible, as it happened so long ago. Elrond briefly explains his lineage - descending from [[Eärendil]] and [[Elwing]] - saying that he has lived through all Three Ages of the world.

He goes on to describe the [[Battle of Dagorlad]], at which he was present: the armies of the Last Alliance stood before the [[Black Gate]] of Mordor, and could not be stopped by the evil forces. He tells of the [[Siege of Barad-dûr]] that followed, where Gil-Galad and Elendil were killed. Isildur picked up his father's broken sword, [[Narsil]], and with it cut the Ring from Sauron's hand, destroying the Dark Lord and taking the Ring for himself.

At this, Boromir suddenly interjects, surprised to hear that Isildur took the Ring; the story had been forgotten to his people, who thought that the Ring had been destroyed that day. Elrond says that he witnessed the event personally: together with Cirdan he tried to convince Isildur to destroy the Ring, then and there; however Isildur refused, claiming the Ring as compensation for his father's and brother's deaths. Elrond then speaks of Isildur's ambush by [[Orcs]] at the [[Gladden Fields]], where he lost the Ring. He notes that Isildur's squire, [[Ohtar]], survived the ambush and brought the broken shards of Narsil back to Rivendell, where Isildur's heir [[Valandil]] lived under supervision, as he was only a child at the time.

Elrond concludes the story, saying that because the Ring was not destroyed, Sauron was not wholly destroyed either. He explains that Elves and Men have grown estranged since, and that the race of Númenor has decayed: now men live shorter lives, and the Elves are decreasing in numbers. The city of [[Annúminas]] fell into ruin, and the heirs of Valandil moved to [[Fornost]], which was eventually destroyed by the forces of [[Angmar]].

Elrond now describes the annals of the realm of Gondor to the south, which still endures. Its capital once resided in [[Osgiliath]], astride both sides of the [[Anduin|Great River]]. The Men of Gondor built [[Minas Ithil]], a tower on the western slopes of the [[Ephel Dúath|Mountains of Shadow]], to guard against the evil creatures of Mordor. They then built the corresponding tower of [[Minas Anor]] on the eastern end of the [[White Mountains]]. At the top of Minas Anor was planted a [[White Tree of Gondor|white tree]], descended from a tree that once grew in the [[Valinor|Uttermost West]] in the early days of the world. Eventually, the line of kings [[Anárion]] and [[Meneldil]] failed, Númenorean blood mingled with that of "lesser men", and the tree withered. The men of Gondor failed in their vigil against Mordor, resulting in foul creatures conquering Minas Ithil (now renamed [[Minas Morgul]], the Tower of Sorcery). Minas Anor was renamed [[Minas Tirith]] (the Tower of Guard), Osgiliath was evacuated of its population, and Gondor and Mordor have been at war with each other ever since.

As Elrond finishes speaking, Boromir rises and reveals that Gondor is his homeland. He proceeds to inform the others of its current state. He claims that the blood of Númenor has not yet been spent, and that only by the valor of his countrymen in their constant battle against Morgul are the lands beyond Gondor kept safe and peaceful. He warns that Gondor's day of defeat may not be far off, as evil has awoken in Mordor once more. In June earlier this year, the Forces of Mordor invaded and conquered [[Ithilien]] - Gondor's land to the east of the Anduin. Boromir claims that Mordor is now allied with the [[Easterlings]] and [[Haradrim]], and that there is some great power strengthening their armies - a great black horseman whose mere presence inflicts fear on the bravest of men. The Gondorians have since scuttled the bridge connecting both sides of Osgiliath, cutting themselves off from Ithilien but also preventing the enemy from crossing the Anduin there. Boromir and his brother were present at the battle, and made it back across the river with only two soldiers remaining. Boromir fears that Gondor has no other ally now, except Rohan to its west.

Boromir now explains his arrival at Rivendell, saying that he has come to seek Elrond's counsel regarding a dream that he and his brother have experienced. In this dream, shadows and thunder came from the east, but in the west was still a pale light; then he heard a voice crying from the west:

{{quote|Seek for the Sword that was broken;    In Imladris it dwells; There shall be counsels taken    Stronger than Morgul-spells. There shall be shown a token    That Doom is near at hand, For Isildur's Bane shall waken    And the Halfling forth shall stand.|[[Boromir]]'s Dream}}

Boromir and his brother went to their father, [[Denethor]], Lord of Minas Tirith, and consulted with him about this dream. Denethor recognized the name "Imladris" as the home of Elrond, far away to the north. Boromir's brother volunteered to go seek it, but Boromir realized the dangerous nature of the journey and took the quest upon himself instead, despite his father's objections.

At this, Aragorn stands up and places his broken sword on the table, identifying it as the sword mentioned in Boromir's dream. Elrond introduces Aragorn to Boromir and the others as a direct descendant of Isildur himself. Frodo immediately exclaims that the Ring should be given to Aragorn, but Aragorn rejects ownership of it. Elrond instead bids Frodo hold up the Ring for all to see.

Fighting a strong reluctance to reveal the Ring, Frodo eventually does so. Elrond introduces the Ring to the others as "Isildur's Bane" - Sauron's Ruling Ring. Boromir is immediately dismayed, believing that it signals doom for his homeland. Aragorn asks Boromir whether he wishes for the House of Elendil to return to Gondor. Boromir doesn't give a clear answer; he seems desperate, but doubtful.

{{Quote|I was not sent to beg any boon, but to seek only the meaning of a riddle. Yet we are hard pressed, and the Sword of Elendil would be a help beyond our hope - if such a thing could indeed return out of the shadows of the past.|[[Boromir]]}}

Bilbo leaps up and recites the [[Riddle of Strider]] aloud, which concludes with the line "The crownless again shall be king." As he sits back down, he reveals to Frodo that it was he who had written that song after first meeting Aragorn.

Aragorn explains a little of his own background to Boromir, saying that Narsil has been passed down diligently from Valandil to each of his successive heirs, ending up with Aragorn. He forgives Boromir for doubting him, admitting that he seems nothing like Isildur or the kings of old, but claims to have made many journeys and fought many servants of the Enemy; just like Gondor in the South, the Dúnedain have been protecting the lands in the north. He tells Boromir that the Dúnedain's job has been even more thankless than Gondor's, as they are given scornful names by the very people they protect, and their work must always be kept secret from the simple folk.

Aragorn concludes by announcing that he will come to Minas Tirith to aid in the coming battle. Boromir expresses doubts about the Ring's identity, asking many questions about it and the story of its recovery. Bilbo asks to adjourn for refreshments before that story is told, but Elrond asks him to tell his story first. Before Bilbo begins his tale, he apologizes if any of those present (particularly Glóin) have heard him tell it differently before; he was simply hoping to keep the Ring for himself and avoid being called a "thief".

Bilbo recounts his encounter with Gollum in full, and is cut short by Elrond before he can describe his entire journey to Erebor. Elrond then asks Frodo to recount his own experience with the Ring since the day he received it. The other council-members ask many questions as he does so, until all details are recounted and considered. Bilbo remarks to Frodo that they should some day discuss the story in private so that Bilbo could write it down in a book.

Frodo is curious about Gandalf's absence during his journey from [[The Shire]] to Rivendell. Galdor joins Frodo in this inquiry, also asking to know why the [[Wise]] are so sure about the Ring's identity, given the long span of time that had passed between its loss and supposed reappearance. He asks about [[Saruman]]'s absence from the present council, wondering about the White Wizard's opinion on the matter at hand. Elrond calls on Gandalf as the last speaker, to answer these questions.

Gandalf first points out that there is only one ring left that Sauron might still be looking for, given that all of the others are either destroyed, in safe keeping, or in the hands of the [[Nazgûl]]. He also points out that Bilbo found his ring in the same year that Sauron (posing as the "Necromancer") was defeated at his fortress in [[Dol Guldur]] - a suspicious coincidence. Gandalf then reveals that Saruman had rejected the idea that the Ring would ever be found again - claiming it had rolled into the sea by now - and attempted to dissuade the other members of the [[White Council]] from taking any open actions against Sauron. This, Gandalf says, gave Sauron the chance to anticipate their actions and withdraw safely from Dol Guldur to Mordor, where he had already been at work building his strength. Saruman claimed that Sauron's belief that the Ring could still be found was an advantage for the White Council, as Sauron would waste effort trying to find it.

Lulled into inaction by Saruman's words, Gandalf set aside his worries about Bilbo's newfound ring; but doubt kept growing in him. Expecting Gollum to come out of his cave to seek the Ring, Gandalf did spot the creature; but when Gollum evaded him he decided to let the matter go, and did not discuss it with anyone for fear of stirring up needless trouble. However when various spies began congregating around The Shire after Bilbo's birthday party, Gandalf consulted Aragorn, who convinced him to act on his suspicions and go hunting for Gollum together.

Gandalf and Aragorn found traces of Gollum near Mordor, but could not find the creature himself. Then Gandalf was reminded of Saruman's description of the One Ring:

{{quote|The Nine, the Seven, and the Three had each their proper gem. Not so the One. It was round and unadorned, as it were one of the lesser rings; but its maker set marks upon it that the skilled, maybe, could still see and read.|[[Saruman]]'s description of the [[One Ring]], according to [[Gandalf]]}}

Not knowing what those marks might be, Gandalf figured that the only way this information could've reached Saruman was through some account by Isildur - the only person other than Sauron ever known to have definitely held the One Ring. Gandalf therefore set out to Gondor, to study their scrolls and archives. Denethor received him coldly, but allowed him to study the texts nevertheless.

Gandalf reveals that he had found a scroll written by Isildur himself after acquiring the Ring. Boromir confirms that it is common knowledge in Gondor that Isildur returned to Minas Tirith first, and lived with Meneldil for a while before setting off north - at which time he could have written such an account. Gandalf recites from the scroll, where Isildur specifically stated that he was taking the Ring to the northern kingdom and wanted to leave an account of it in Gondor, so that future generations would not forget.

According to the [[Scroll of Isildur]], the Ring had at first scorched Isildur's hand, but quickly cooled and shrank. Before it did, Isildur noted words inscribed into the Ring, which slowly faded over time. He could not read the inscription, which was written in the dark tongue of Mordor using Elvish script, but managed to copy it down before it disappeared. He surmised, correctly, that the script might re-appear if the Ring was ever reintroduced to a source of heat resembling Sauron's burning hand; but Isildur could not bring himself to do so, as the Ring was too valuable to him as an heirloom.

Upon learning this, Gandalf immediately left Minas Tirith heading north. On his way, he received messages from [[Lothlórien]] that Aragorn had managed to capture Gollum. This prompts Aragorn to tell his account of the hunt for Gollum. He had made it to the Black Gate and the [[Morgul Vale]], but could not find Gollum. He despaired and turned homewards, but then found the creature's tracks by chance and followed it into the [[Dead Marshes]], where he finally caught Gollum peering into the water. Gollum bit Aragorn, but would tell him nothing. Gollum was then bound and gagged, and made to walk all the way back to Mirkwood, where he was handed off to the Wood Elves for imprisonment. Gandalf soon arrived, and interrogated the creature at length.

Gandalf confirms that Gollums's story matches the one told by Bilbo just moments earlier. Furthermore, Gollum's interrogation revealed that he had found the ring in the Great River, and had kept it for hundreds of years - far longer than the lifespan of his race. Gandalf notes that only the Great Rings have the power to extend life to such magnitude. Gandalf hopes that this information would put Galdor's doubts to rest regarding the identity of the Ring. Nevertheless, he recounts the text that Isildur had copied down from the ring, and announces that he had performed the test of fire upon it and confirmed the appearance of the same words. Gandalf then recites the part of the [[Ring Verse]] that appeared, causing a shadow to briefly pass over Rivendell and forcing some of the Elves to stop their ears.

Finally, Gandalf reveals that Gollum had made it to Mordor, was captured and tortured there, and revealed all that he knew to Sauron. He surmises that Sauron has already figured out that the Ring is now in Rivendell.
Boromir asks what punishment was inflicted on Gollum. Gandalf says that Gollum had already suffered enough on account of the Ring and the torture in Mordor, and so was left as a prisoner in Mirkwood. He notes that Gollum was capable of much greater feats than his emaciated form might suggest on account of his burning desire for the Ring, and suspects that Gollum was released from Mordor's clutches in order to perform some unknown, nefarious task.

Legolas now joins the conversation for the first time, with alarming news: He was sent to Rivendell from Mirkwood to report that Gollum had escaped their prison. He says that, having learned of Gollum's sad story and heeded Gandalf's hopes that he might still be cured of his condition, the Elves took pity on the creature and moved him out of the dungeons. Glóin grumbles that he and [[Thorin and Company|Thorin's Company]] did not receive such tender mercy during their stay in the Elves' dungeon, forcing Gandalf to interject in order to prevent a quarrel about past grievances.

Legolas continues, describing Gollum's escape. He was taken out for a walk in the forest, and allowed to climb a tall tree he was fond of; however that day he refused to come down for many hours. The Elves stood guard at the bottom of the tree, but at night were suddenly attacked by a large group of Orcs from the mountains. When the Orcs were finally driven off, Gollum's guards were found slain, and he was gone. The Elves surmised that Gollum was somehow aware that the attack was going to occur that day, perhaps through one of Sauron's spies.

According to Legolas, the Elves began searching for Gollum immediately, and found his tracks among those of a large group of Orcs. Unfortunately, the tracks soon disappeared in the vicinity of Dol Guldur, and the Elves were reluctant to keep searching in that direction. He explains that Mirkwood has once again become full of the evil creatures that had previously been driven out after the [[Attack on Dol Guldur]]. Gandalf expresses frustration, but says that Gollum will now play whatever part was destined to him - hopefully one that Sauron has not foreseen.

Finally, Gandalf comes to the story of his own disappearance. In June he had left [[Hobbiton]] for the southern edge of The Shire, where he received news of Mordor's invasion of Ithilien. Hurrying east to [[Bree]], he ran into [[Radagast the Brown]], a fellow [[Wizard]], who had been seeking him. Radagast reported to Gandalf that Nazgûl had been sighted crossing the Great River in secret, on their way westwards, disguised as riders in black. According to Radagast, the Nazgûl had been asking anyone they came across about a land called "Shire". Radagast added that Saruman had sent him on this errand, offering to help if Gandalf wished it. Gandalf hoped that Saruman, who was wise in the ways of the Enemy, had found some weapon to help drive the Nazgûl away. Before Radagast could ride off, Gandalf asked him to have beasts and birds collect information and deliver it directly to [[Orthanc]].

Gandalf stayed that night in Bree, where he decided to ride to [[Isengard]] instead of back to the Shire. He wrote a message to Frodo and left it with his friend [[Barliman Butterbur]] at the [[Prancing Pony]]. He then rode south along the [[Misty Mountains]] to the [[Gap of Rohan]]. Gandalf continues to describe Isengard as a circle of sheer rock enclosing a valley at the southern edge of the Misty Mountains, with a lone tower at its center. As he rode through the heavily-defended gate in the rocky wall, he felt an unexplained trepidation. Reaching the tower, he was greeted by Saruman and let inside. He notes that Saruman was wearing a ring on his finger.

Gandalf asked Saruman for aid, but received only condescention in return. Saruman facetiously wondered what brought Gandalf out of The Shire, indicating that he knew Gandalf was keeping some very important secret from him. When Gandalf reported what he had heard from Radagast, Saruman insulted Radagast and revealed that he was only sent to lure Gandalf to Orthanc. Gandalf then noticed that Saruman was wearing a robe of many colors.

Saruman offered Gandalf a choice. Claiming that the time of the Elves was over, and that the time of Men was beginning, Saruman suggested that the Wizards should be the ones to rule in this new age. For this, he said, they needed to align themselves with the rising power of Middle Earth.

{{quote|A new Power is rising. Against it the old allies and policies will not avail us at all. There is no hope left in Elves or dying Númenor. This then is one choice before you, before us. We may join with that Power. It would be wise, Gandalf. There is hope that way. Its victory is at hand; and there will be rich reward for those that aided it.|[[Saruman]]}}

Saruman then revealed that he had already figured out that Gandalf had been protecting the One Ring in The Shire. He pressed Gandalf to reveal its whereabouts. Gandalf refused to reveal anything, realizing that Saruman and Sauron were now simply two sides of the same coin.

Gandalf was taken to the Pinnacle of Orthanc, where he saw that the once-green valley of Isengard was now filled with pits and forges. Saruman has been mustering an army of Orcs and Wolves, which Gandalf surmised would be used in rivalry to Sauron rather than at his service. He could not escape the tower, and was forced to spend his days in the cold and the smoke billowing from below. Frodo exclaims that he had seen this event in one of his dreams during his journey.

Gandalf's salvation came thanks to the uncorruptible Radagast, who had fortunately merely played the part of an unwitting pawn in Saruman's plans. Radagast did as Gandalf asked, riding east to seek allies. Eventually, he found the [[Great Eagles]], who began to scout the lands around the Misty Mountains and learned of the coming of the Nazgûl and of Gollum's escape from Mirkwood. [[Gwaihir]], fastest of the Great Eagles, came to Isengard to deliver this news, only to find Gandalf at the top of the tower and bear him away from there before Saruman could intervene.

Gwaihir could not take Gandalf very far, so Gandalf decided to be taken to nearby [[Rohan]] where he could acquire a fast horse for the journey back north. Gwaihir assured him that while Rohan had been sending horses as tribute to [[Mordor]], they had not yet allied with the Dark Lord. At [[Edoras]], Gandalf discovered that Saruman's lies had already taken hold, and he was received very coldly. The king ordered him to take a horse and be gone, so Gandalf chose the best steed in the land and rode off.

Aragorn laments this state of affairs in the land of Rohan, but Boromir stands up in their defense, claiming that the [[Rohirrim]] are honorable men and would never give away their beloved horses as tribute. Gandalf agrees, adding that the horse he had chosen is indeed one of their most precious horses: [[Shadowfax]], born in the early days of the world; a horse too fast even for Nazgûl horses to catch, never before ridden by any man. He says that Shadowfax bore him from Rohan all the way to The Shire in the time it took Frodo to reach the [[Barrow-downs]]. Nevertheless, Gandalf could not catch up with the Nazgûl, who were already well ahead of him.

Gandalf reached Hobbiton and had words with [[Gaffer Gamgee]], discovering that Frodo had already left less than a week earlier, and that Black Riders had come looking for him the same night. Gandalf rode on to [[Buckland]] and found it in uproar after the Nazgûl attack on [[Crickhollow]]. At the house, he found Frodo's cape (left there by [[Fatty Bolger]]) and thought the worst had happened. He tracked two Nazgûl to Bree, where he met with Barliman Butterbur. The innkeeper broke down immediately, apologizing for letting the Hobbits continue on with Strider, not realizing that Gandalf had hoped this would happen. Overjoyed at the knowledge that the Hobbits were not captured and were now with Aragorn, Gandalf rested a night at the Prancing Pony. That night, five Black Riders stormed right through Bree, heading east. He surmises that the Black Riders had made a tactical error in splitting their forces to attack Hobbiton and Buckland, leaving the way open to the east for a short time, accidentally letting the Hobbits and Strider through.

Gandalf rode after the Nazgûl in the morning, and intercepted them at Weathertop. The Nazgûl waited for nightfall, and finally attacked. The battle raged through the night, and at sunrise Gandalf escaped to the north, drawing four of the riders away for a while, though they eventually gave up and turned back. Unable to do anything more to help, Gandalf navigated his way across country to Rivendell, and eventually released Shadowfax partway there. He says that he had become good friends with the horse, and that Shadowfax would return to his aid, if he ever called. He finally reached Rivendell only three days before Frodo.

Now that all storied have finally been told, Elrond expresses his dismay at the fall of Saruman, who had been their trusted counsel. However he also expresses great marvel at the resilience of the Hobbits during their journey, and has found Frodo's story most interesting. In particular, he notes that he had forgotten all about [[Tom Bombadil]], whom he calls Iarwain Ben-adar, "oldest and fatherless". He laments not having invited Bombadil to the council, but Gandalf says he would not have come.

Erestor asks whether it would not be wise to give the Ring to Bombadil, on whom it has no effect. Gandalf explains that while Bombadil might agree, he would not understand the importance of the task, and might even lose the Ring eventually. In any case, Gandalf asserts that even Bombadil in his own little realm could not stand up to the full power of Sauron. Glorfindel adds that taking the Ring to Bombadil in secret would also be impossible now.

Galdor agrees with this assessment, claiming that any hope remaining is now here at Rivendell, or at the Grey Havens, or in Lothlórien. Elrond responds that neither he nor those other Elven lands have the power to endure the coming storm. Glorfindel concludes that there are only two options remaining: Send the Ring west over the sea, or destroy it. Elrond counters both options: For one, the Ring cannot be destroyed by any means they possess; and the people of Valinor would not accept the Ring into their care, as it is an evil belonging to Middle-Earth, and thus a problem that the people of Middle-Earth must solve for themselves.

Glorfindel then suggests throwing the Ring into the sea, subverting and fulfilling the lie that Saruman had told them about it. Gandalf counters this by saying that vile creatures in the deep might find and retrieve it, or that the seas might one day shift and bring it back to the surface. He is adamant that a permanent end to the problem must be found. Galdor again agrees, adding that it would be extremely difficult to get the Ring to the sea anyway, with the Enemy still watching the roads there. He asserts that the Nazgûl would soon return with faster riding beasts, and would be expecting the Ring to travel west. He doubts the ability of Gondor to keep the forces of Sauron at bay much longer, and they would eventually break through and come straight for the Grey Havens. Boromir defends his people, saying they still have the strength to fight, but Galdor notes that the Black Riders might bypass Gondor altogether.

Erestor concludes that Glorfindel's earlier assessment was correct: Either they hide the Ring, or find a way to destroy it. Elrond finally speaks, agreeing that the roads to the west are predictable and must be shunned. Therefore, they must go east, to Mordor, to destroy the Ring where it was made.

Boromir interjects, offering a third option: to use the Ring as a weapon, just as Saruman had planned to do for his own ends. Elrond states that the Ring cannot be used, as it is wholly evil and obeys only the Dark Lord who made it. He brings up Saruman's corruption as an example of a once-benevolent and powerful figure consumed by desire for the Ring. He says that even Sauron was not evil in the beginning, and that if any of the Wise were to take the Ring for themselves, they would simply replace him and become evil rulers themselves. He refuses to take the Ring, even to hide it, and so does Gandalf.

Boromir is dismayed, but expresses some hope that the Sword that was Broken might still come to Gondor's aid, if Aragorn proves to be made of the same mettle as his ancestors. He also hopes that others will fight as valiantly as his people do, and Elrond reassures him that they will.

Glóin suggests pooling together the efforts of their disparate kingdoms. In particular, he suggests using the other Rings of Power to aid them in the coming conflict. He notes that one Dwarf-ring - [[Ring of Thrór|Thrór's ring]] - might still be found in Moria, and that perhaps Balin has already found it there. Gandalf reports that this is impossible, as that ring was taken by Saruman from [[Thrór]]'s heir [[Thráin]] during his torture at Dol Guldur. Glóin asks about the Elven-rings, but Elrond dismisses the question offhand. He says that the Three Rings were made without Sauron's involvement, and would serve no purpose as weapons. He adds that if Sauron was ever to regain the One Ring, anything that was gained by the Three would be subverted and ruined anyway. He remarks that this was Sauron's plan all along, and laments that the Three Rings had been created in the first place.

Glóin asks what would happen, then, if the One Ring was destroyed. Elrond responds that no one knows, but hopes that the Three would become free in that case, though they might lose all their power instead. Glorfindel remarks that the Elves are willing to take that risk, if it means ridding Middle-Earth of the threat of Sauron.

The conversation returns to the matter of destroying the Ring. Erestor comments that there is little chance of reaching the Fire where the Ring could be destroyed, calling the idea a "folly". Gandalf retorts that this might actually be an advantage: Sauron understands only the desire for power, and expects anyone who comes across the Ring to use it; he cannot understand a desire to destroy it. As such, the attempt to destroy it might catch him off-guard, at least for a while. Elrond agrees with this assessment, adding:

{{quote|This quest may be attempted by the weak with as much hope as the strong. Yet such is oft the course of deeds that move the wheels of the world: small hands do them because they must, while the eyes of the great are elsewhere.|[[Elrond]]}}

At this, Bilbo stands up, saying that he's received the hint, and volunteers to take the Ring to Mordor himself. He laments only that he might not get the chance to write the ending to his book, which would now have to be amended because he might not "live happily ever after to the end of his days". Boromir is amused by this, but quickly realizes that all others present regard Bilbo's offer with great respect. Gandalf thanks Bilbo for his bravery, but says that Bilbo's part in the story had already ended when he passed on the Ring, except to record the events in a sequel book when the chosen questers eventually come back.

Bilbo asks who those questers will be, then. Silence falls on the council as they ponder the question with heavy hearts. Frodo slowly comes to the realization that the course of events he had dreaded is now inevitable. With great difficulty, he finally speaks:

{{quote|I will take the Ring, though I do not know the way.|[[Frodo Baggins]]}}

Realizing the implications, Elrond tells Frodo that the task may have been appointed for him, and that he might be the only one who might be able to find the way. He ponders this unlikely turn of events, which none of the Wise had foreseen. He tells Frodo that the decision must be his alone, voluntarily, but that if he chose to go he would be counted among the greatest Elf-friends who ever lived, among the likes of [[Hador]], [[Húrin]], [[Túrin]] and [[Beren]].

Suddenly, Sam leaps up from his hiding place, protesting that Frodo must not be sent on this quest alone.

{{quote|No indeed! You at least shall go with him. It is hardly possible to separate you from him, even when he is summoned to a secret council and you are not.|[[Elrond]]}}

At this, Sam sinks to the floor in embarrassment, realizing the pickle he and Frodo have landed themselves in.

==Composition==
Early drafts of the chapter probably were completed near the end of [[1939]]); in that version, the original Fellowship consisted of Gandalf, Boromir, and five Hobbits including "[[Trotter|Peregrin Boffin]]".<ref>{{CG|CG}}, p. xxii</ref>

Later drafts of the chapter were reworked around [[1940]]-[[1941]], with at least three new versions. New material included Aragorn as the [[Heir of Elendil]] and related additions; but since narration was too long,background information was removed to the [[Appendices]] and to another text called ''[[Of the Rings of Power and the Third Age]]''.<ref>{{CG|CG}}, p. xxiii</ref>
{{references}}
[[Category:The Fellowship of the Ring chapters|Council of Elrond]]
[[fi:Elrondin neuvonpito (TSH)]]

The Council of Elrond

2023-09-16T04:45:48Z

Headrock: /* Summary */ Missing apostrophe.

{{disambig-more|The Council of Elrond|[[The Council of Elrond (disambiguation)]]}}
{{chapter
| image=Peter Xavier Price - The Lord of Rivendell.jpg
| title=The Council of Elrond
| book=The Fellowship of the Ring
| number=14
| event=The [[Council of Elrond]] is held; [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] volunteers to take the [[The One Ring|

Ring]] to [[Mordor]].
| date=[[25 October]] {{TA|3018|n}}
| location=[[Rivendell]]
| perspective=[[Frodo Baggins]]
| previous=Many Meetings
| next=The Ring Goes South
}}

'''The Council of Elrond''' is the second chapter of the second book in ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.

In this chapter, the visitors to [[Rivendell]] assemble to discuss the matter of the [[One Ring]]. Each, in turn, tells news of their lands, recent events, and the reasons that had brought them to Rivendell. Finally [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] reveals the One Ring and its accompanying doom. [[Gandalf]] describes the capture of [[Gollum]], and his own imprisonment at [[Orthanc]]. A decision is made to take the One Ring to [[Mordor]], where it must be destroyed. Frodo volunteers to carry the Ring there, and when [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]] objects to him going alone, he is drafted to accompany Frodo on his task.

==Summary==

The next morning, [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] and [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]] take a walk in [[Rivendell]] and run into [[Gandalf]] and [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]]. Frodo wants to explore the wilderness around the town, but Gandalf says it will have to wait until after the [[Council of Elrond|great council]], which is about to commence. At that moment, a bell rings out to summon all to the meeting. Sam follows the others even though he was not invited.

The council takes place on the same porch where Frodo had reunited with [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] and [[Peregrin Took|Pippin]] the previous evening. Among the many attendants, Frodo spots [[Elrond]], [[Glorfindel]] and [[Glóin]], as well as [[Strider]] wearing his worn travel clothes again. Gandalf introduces Frodo to the attendants:

{{quote|Here, my friends, is the hobbit, Frodo son of Drogo. Few have ever come hither though greater peril or on an errand more urgent.|[[Gandalf]]}}

Gandalf points out several important figures to Frodo: Glóin's son, [[Gimli]]; [[Erestor]], Elrond's chief counselor; [[Galdor]], a messenger from [[Cirdan the Shipwright]] of the [[Grey Havens]]; and [[Legolas]], son of [[Thranduil]], King of the Elves of [[Mirkwood]]. Frodo also notes a [[Men|Man]] sitting apart from the others, wearing rich but travel-worn clothes, and holding a [[Great Horn|great horn]]. Gandalf says the man's name is [[Boromir]], and that he had arrived that morning from the south, seeking counsel.

Many tales are told about the goings-on in the greater world to the south and east. Frodo had already heard some of this information before, but pays close attention when Glóin begins to speak. Glóin explains that the [[Dwarves]] of [[Erebor]] had grown disquiet, and some decided to attempt to reconquer [[Moria]] under the [[Misty Mountains]].

{{quote|Moria! Moria! Wonder of the Northern world! Too deep we delved there, and woke the nameless fear. Long have its vast mansions lain empty since the children of Durin fled. But now we spoke of it again with longing, and yet with dread; for no dwarf has dared to pass the doors of Khazad-dûm for many lives of kings, save Thrór only, and he perished.|[[Glóin]]}}

Glóin explains that thirty years prior, against King [[Dáin]]'s wishes, [[Balin]] took [[Ori]] and [[Óin]] together with a multitude of other Dwarves on a quest to retake the city. While news at first indicated that they had been successful and prosperous, the messages soon ceased.

According to Glóin, one year ago a messenger from [[Mordor]] arrived at Erebor. The messenger wanted to forge a friendship between [[Sauron]] and the Dwarves. He began asking questions about creatures called [[Hobbits]] - what they were and where they lived - and indicated that Sauron knows that the Dwarves have met one.

{{quote|As a small token only of your friendship Sauron asks this: that you should find this thief, and get from him, willing or no, a little ring, the least of rings, that once he stole. It is but a trifle that Sauron fancies, and an earnest of your good will.|[[Sauron]]'s messenger to [[Erebor]]}}

In return for this information, the messenger promised Dáin three of the lost [[Seven Dwarf-rings|Dwarf-rings]], as well as a guarantee that Moria shall belong to the Dwarves forever. Dáin became very suspicious of this, and refused to give an answer immediately. The messenger gave a veiled threat and rode away. That messenger visited twice more and received the same answer, and then promised to come one final time before the end of the year. The Dwarves have since learned that similar messengers had also been sent to King [[Brand]] of [[Dale]].

The Dwarves and Men of the North now fear that Mordor is about to attack them. Dáin has sent Glóin to Rivendell to warn Bilbo that the Enemy might come for him, and to ask for Elrond's counsel on this matter. Elrond commends Dáin on his decision, but says that the Dwarves have no choice but to resist, with or without hope. He reassures them that they are not alone: the trouble belongs to all of the western world.

Elrond begins to explain the ancient history of [[The One Ring]] in full. First, he tells of how the [[Rings of Power]] were forged during the [[Second Age]] - a tale which we are told was only known in full to few of the listeners. According to Elrond, the Elves of [[Eregion]] and Dwarves of Moria were once friends; but the Elves' eagerness for knowledge made them susceptible to Sauron's charms, who at the time did not appear in his evil form. The Dark Lord learned their arts and crafted the One Ring in secret at [[Orodruin]] to control the others. Only [[Celebrimbor]] suspected him, and hid the [[Three Rings]] that he had created without Sauron's aid. A war ensued, during which the land of Eregion was destroyed and the gate of Moria was shut.

Throughout the rest of the morning, Elrond continues the story of the One Ring during the Second Age. He speaks of the fall of [[Númenor]] and the arrival of [[Men of the West]] in [[Middle-earth]]. He tells of [[Elendil]] and his sons, [[Isildur]] and [[Anárion]], who founded the northern kingdom of [[Arnor]] and southern kingdom of [[Gondor]]. Sauron assaulted their kingdoms, and the [[Last Alliance]] was forged between Elendil and [[Gil-Galad]] to defeat him.

Elrond says he remembers those days clearly. Frodo asks how this is possible, as it happened so long ago. Elrond briefly explains his lineage - descending from [[Eärendil]] and [[Elwing]] - saying that he has lived through all Three Ages of the world.

He goes on to describe the [[Battle of Dagorlad]], at which he was present: the armies of the Last Alliance stood before the [[Black Gate]] of Mordor, and could not be stopped by the evil forces. He tells of the [[Siege of Barad-dûr]] that followed, where Gil-Galad and Elendil were killed. Isildur picked up his father's broken sword, [[Narsil]], and with it cut the Ring from Sauron's hand, destroying the Dark Lord and taking the Ring for himself.

At this, Boromir suddenly interjects, surprised to hear that Isildur took the Ring; the story had been forgotten to his people, who thought that the Ring had been destroyed that day. Elrond says that he witnessed the event personally: together with Cirdan he tried to convince Isildur to destroy the Ring, then and there; however Isildur refused, claiming the Ring as compensation for his father's and brother's deaths. Elrond then speaks of Isildur's ambush by [[Orcs]] at the [[Gladden Fields]], where he lost the Ring. He notes that Isildur's squire, [[Ohtar]], survived the ambush and brought the broken shards of Narsil back to Rivendell, where Isildur's heir [[Valandil]] lived under supervision, as he was only a child at the time.

Elrond concludes the story, saying that because the Ring was not destroyed, Sauron was not wholly destroyed either. He explains that Elves and Men have grown estranged since, and that the race of Númenor has decayed: now men live shorter lives, and the Elves are decreasing in numbers. The city of [[Annúminas]] fell into ruin, and the heirs of Valandil moved to [[Fornost]], which was eventually destroyed by the forces of [[Angmar]].

Elrond now describes the annals of the realm of Gondor to the south, which still endures. Its capital once resided in [[Osgiliath]], astride both sides of the [[Anduin|Great River]]. The Men of Gondor built [[Minas Ithil]], a tower on the western slopes of the [[Ephel Dúath|Mountains of Shadow]], to guard against the evil creatures of Mordor. They then built the corresponding tower of [[Minas Anor]] on the eastern end of the [[White Mountains]]. At the top of Minas Anor was planted a [[White Tree of Gondor|white tree]], descended from a tree that once grew in the [[Valinor|Uttermost West]] in the early days of the world. Eventually, the line of kings [[Anárion]] and [[Meneldil]] failed, Númenorean blood mingled with that of "lesser men", and the tree withered. The men of Gondor failed in their vigil against Mordor, resulting in foul creatures conquering Minas Ithil (now renamed [[Minas Morgul]], the Tower of Sorcery). Minas Anor was renamed [[Minas Tirith]] (the Tower of Guard), Osgiliath was evacuated of its population, and Gondor and Mordor have been at war with each other ever since.

As Elrond finishes speaking, Boromir rises and reveals that Gondor is his homeland. He proceeds to inform the others of its current state. He claims that the blood of Númenor has not yet been spent, and that only by the valor of his countrymen in their constant battle against Morgul are the lands beyond Gondor kept safe and peaceful. He warns that Gondor's day of defeat may not be far off, as evil has awoken in Mordor once more. In June earlier this year, the Forces of Mordor invaded and conquered [[Ithilien]] - Gondor's land to the east of the Anduin. Boromir claims that Mordor is now allied with the [[Easterlings]] and [[Haradrim]], and that there is some great power strengthening their armies - a great black horseman whose mere presence inflicts fear on the bravest of men. The Gondorians have since scuttled the bridge connecting both sides of Osgiliath, cutting themselves off from Ithilien but also preventing the enemy from crossing the Anduin there. Boromir and his brother were present at the battle, and made it back across the river with only two soldiers remaining. Boromir fears that Gondor has no other ally now, except Rohan to its west.

Boromir now explains his arrival at Rivendell, saying that he has come to seek Elrond's counsel regarding a dream that he and his brother have experienced. In this dream, shadows and thunder came from the east, but in the west was still a pale light; then he heard a voice crying from the west:

{{quote|Seek for the Sword that was broken;    In Imladris it dwells; There shall be counsels taken    Stronger than Morgul-spells. There shall be shown a token    That Doom is near at hand, For Isildur's Bane shall waken    And the Halfling forth shall stand.|[[Boromir]]'s Dream}}

Boromir and his brother went to their father, [[Denethor]], Lord of Minas Tirith, and consulted with him about this dream. Denethor recognized the name "Imladris" as the home of Elrond, far away to the north. Boromir's brother volunteered to go seek it, but Boromir realized the dangerous nature of the journey and took the quest upon himself instead, despite his father's objections.

At this, Aragorn stands up and places his broken sword on the table, identifying it as the sword mentioned in Boromir's dream. Elrond introduces Aragorn to Boromir and the others as a direct descendant of Isildur himself. Frodo immediately exclaims that the Ring should be given to Aragorn, but Aragorn rejects ownership of it. Elrond instead bids Frodo hold up the Ring for all to see.

Fighting a strong reluctance to reveal the Ring, Frodo eventually does so. Elrond introduces the Ring to the others as "Isildur's Bane" - Sauron's Ruling Ring. Boromir is immediately dismayed, believing that it signals doom for his homeland. Aragorn asks Boromir whether he wishes for the House of Elendil to return to Gondor. Boromir doesn't give a clear answer; he seems desperate, but doubtful.

{{Quote|I was not sent to beg any boon, but to seek only the meaning of a riddle. Yet we are hard pressed, and the Sword of Elendil would be a help beyond our hope - if such a thing could indeed return out of the shadows of the past.|[[Boromir]]}}

Bilbo leaps up and recites the [[Riddle of Strider]] aloud, which concludes with the line "The crownless again shall be king." As he sits back down, he reveals to Frodo that it was he who had written that song after first meeting Aragorn.

Aragorn explains a little of his own background to Boromir, saying that Narsil has been passed down diligently from Valandil to each of his successive heirs, ending up with Aragorn. He forgives Boromir for doubting him, admitting that he seems nothing like Isildur or the kings of old, but claims to have made many journeys and fought many servants of the Enemy; just like Gondor in the South, the Dúnedain have been protecting the lands in the north. He tells Boromir that the Dúnedain's job has been even more thankless than Gondor's, as they are given scornful names by the very people they protect, and their work must always be kept secret from the simple folk.

Aragorn concludes by announcing that he will come to Minas Tirith to aid in the coming battle. Boromir expresses doubts about the Ring's identity, asking many questions about it and the story of its recovery. Bilbo asks to adjourn for refreshments before that story is told, but Elrond asks him to tell his story first. Before Bilbo begins his tale, he apologizes if any of those present (particularly Glóin) have heard him tell it differently before; he was simply hoping to keep the Ring for himself and avoid being called a "thief".

Bilbo recounts his encounter with Gollum in full, and is cut short by Elrond before he can describe his entire journey to Erebor. Elrond then asks Frodo to recount his own experience with the Ring since the day he received it. The other council-members ask many questions as he does so, until all details are recounted and considered. Bilbo remarks to Frodo that they should some day discuss the story in private so that Bilbo could write it down in a book.

Frodo is curious about Gandalf's absence during his journey from [[The Shire]] to Rivendell. Galdor joins Frodo in this inquiry, also asking to know why the [[Wise]] are so sure about the Ring's identity, given the long span of time that had passed between its loss and supposed reappearance. He asks about [[Saruman]]'s absence from the present council, wondering about the White Wizard's opinion on the matter at hand. Elrond calls on Gandalf as the last speaker, to answer these questions.

Gandalf first points out that there is only one ring left that Sauron might still be looking for, given that all of the others are either destroyed, in safe keeping, or in the hands of the [[Nazgûl]]. He also points out that Bilbo found his ring in the same year that Sauron (posing as the "Necromancer") was defeated at his fortress in [[Dol Guldur]] - a suspicious coincidence. Gandalf then reveals that Saruman had rejected the idea that the Ring would ever be found again - claiming it had rolled into the sea by now - and attempted to dissuade the other members of the [[White Council]] from taking any open actions against Sauron. This, Gandalf says, gave Sauron the chance to anticipate their actions and withdraw safely from Dol Guldur to Mordor, where he had already been at work building his strength. Saruman claimed that Sauron's belief that the Ring could still be found was an advantage for the White Council, as Sauron would waste effort trying to find it.

Lulled into inaction by Saruman's words, Gandalf set aside his worries about Bilbo's newfound ring; but doubt kept growing in him. Expecting Gollum to come out of his cave to seek the Ring, Gandalf did spot the creature; but when Gollum evaded him he decided to let the matter go, and did not discuss it with anyone for fear of stirring up needless trouble. However when various spies began congregating around The Shire after Bilbo's birthday party, Gandalf consulted Aragorn, who convinced him to act on his suspicions and go hunting for Gollum together.

Gandalf and Aragorn found traces of Gollum near Mordor, but could not find the creature himself. Then Gandalf was reminded of Saruman's description of the One Ring:

{{quote|The Nine, the Seven, and the Three had each their proper gem. Not so the One. It was round and unadorned, as it were one of the lesser rings; but its maker set marks upon it that the skilled, maybe, could still see and read.|[[Saruman]]'s description of the [[One Ring]], according to [[Gandalf]]}}

Not knowing what those marks might be, Gandalf figured that the only way this information could've reached Saruman was through some account by Isildur - the only person other than Sauron ever known to have definitely held the One Ring. Gandalf therefore set out to Gondor, to study their scrolls and archives. Denethor received him coldly, but allowed him to study the texts nevertheless.

Gandalf reveals that he had found a scroll written by Isildur himself after acquiring the Ring. Boromir confirms that it is common knowledge in Gondor that Isildur returned to Minas Tirith first, and lived with Meneldil for a while before setting off north - at which time he could have written such an account. Gandalf recites from the scroll, where Isildur specifically stated that he was taking the Ring to the northern kingdom and wanted to leave an account of it in Gondor, so that future generations would not forget.

According to the [[Scroll of Isildur]], the Ring had at first scorched Isildur's hand, but quickly cooled and shrank. Before it did, Isildur noted words inscribed into the Ring, which slowly faded over time. He could not read the inscription, which was written in the dark tongue of Mordor using Elvish script, but managed to copy it down before it disappeared. He surmised, correctly, that the script might re-appear if the Ring was ever reintroduced to a source of heat resembling Sauron's burning hand; but Isildur could not bring himself to do so, as the Ring was too valuable to him as an heirloom.

Upon learning this, Gandalf immediately left Minas Tirith heading north. On his way, he received messages from [[Lothlórien]] that Aragorn had managed to capture Gollum. This prompts Aragorn to tell his account of the hunt for Gollum. He had made it to the Black Gate and the [[Morgul Vale]], but could not find Gollum. He despaired and turned homewards, but then found the creature's tracks by chance and followed it into the [[Dead Marshes]], where he finally caught Gollum peering into the water. Gollum bit Aragorn, but would tell him nothing. Gollum was then bound and gagged, and made to walk all the way back to Mirkwood, where he was handed off to the Wood Elves for imprisonment. Gandalf soon arrived, and interrogated the creature at length.

Gandalf confirms that Gollums's story matches the one told by Bilbo just moments earlier. Furthermore, Gollum's interrogation revealed that he had found the ring in the Great River, and had kept it for hundreds of years - far longer than the lifespan of his race. Gandalf notes that only the Great Rings have the power to extend life to such magnitude. Gandalf hopes that this information would put Galdor's doubts to rest regarding the identity of the Ring. Nevertheless, he recounts the text that Isildur had copied down from the ring, and announces that he had performed the test of fire upon it and confirmed the appearance of the same words. Gandalf then recites the part of the [[Ring Verse]] that appeared, causing a shadow to briefly pass over Rivendell and forcing some of the Elves to stop their ears.

Finally, Gandalf reveals that Gollum had made it to Mordor, was captured and tortured there, and revealed all that he knew to Sauron. He surmises that Sauron has already figured out that the Ring is now in Rivendell.
Boromir asks what punishment was inflicted on Gollum. Gandalf says that Gollum had already suffered enough on account of the Ring and the torture in Mordor, and so was left as a prisoner in Mirkwood. He notes that Gollum was capable of much greater feats than his emaciated form might suggest on account of his burning desire for the Ring, and suspects that Gollum was released from Mordor's clutches in order to perform some unknown, nefarious task.

Legolas now joins the conversation for the first time, with alarming news: He was sent to Rivendell from Mirkwood to report that Gollum had escaped their prison. He says that, having learned of Gollum's sad story and heeded Gandalf's hopes that he might still be cured of his condition, the Elves took pity on the creature and moved him out of the dungeons. Glóin grumbles that he and [[Thorin and Company|Thorin's Company]] did not receive such tender mercy during their stay in the Elves' dungeon, forcing Gandalf to interject in order to prevent a quarrel about past grievances.

Legolas continues, describing Gollum's escape. He was taken out for a walk in the forest, and allowed to climb a tall tree he was fond of; however that day he refused to come down for many hours. The Elves stood guard at the bottom of the tree, but at night were suddenly attacked by a large group of Orcs from the mountains. When the Orcs were finally driven off, Gollum's guards were found slain, and he was gone. The Elves surmised that Gollum was somehow aware that the attack was going to occur that day, perhaps through one of Sauron's spies.

According to Legolas, the Elves began searching for Gollum immediately, and found his tracks among those of a large group of Orcs. Unfortunately, the tracks soon disappeared in the vicinity of Dol Guldur, and the Elves were reluctant to keep searching in that direction. He explains that Mirkwood has once again become full of the evil creatures that had previously been driven out after the [[Attack on Dol Guldur]]. Gandalf expresses frustration, but says that Gollum will now play whatever part was destined to him - hopefully one that Sauron has not foreseen.

Finally, Gandalf comes to the story of his own disappearance. In June he had left [[Hobbiton]] for the southern edge of The Shire, where he received news of Mordor's invasion of Ithilien. Hurrying east to [[Bree]], he ran into [[Radagast the Brown]], a fellow [[Wizard]], who had been seeking him. Radagast reported to Gandalf that Nazgûl had been sighted crossing the Great River in secret, on their way westwards, disguised as riders in black. According to Radagast, the Nazgûl had been asking anyone they came across about a land called "Shire". Radagast added that Saruman had sent him on this errand, offering to help if Gandalf wished it. Gandalf hoped that Saruman, who was wise in the ways of the Enemy, had found some weapon to help drive the Nazgûl away. Before Radagast could ride off, Gandalf asked him to have beasts and birds collect information and deliver it directly to [[Orthanc]].

Gandalf stayed that night in Bree, where he decided to ride to [[Isengard]] instead of back to the Shire. He wrote a message to Frodo and left it with his friend [[Barliman Butterbur]] at the [[Prancing Pony]]. He then rode south along the [[Misty Mountains]] to the [[Gap of Rohan]]. Gandalf continues to describe Isengard as a circle of sheer rock enclosing a valley at the southern edge of the Misty Mountains, with a lone tower at its center. As he rode through the heavily-defended gate in the rocky wall, he felt an unexplained trepidation. Reaching the tower, he was greeted by Saruman and let inside. He notes that Saruman was wearing a ring on his finger.

Gandalf asked Saruman for aid, but received only condescention in return. Saruman facetiously wondered what brought Gandalf out of The Shire, indicating that he knew Gandalf was keeping some very important secret from him. When Gandalf reported what he had heard from Radagast, Saruman insulted Radagast and revealed that he was only sent to lure Gandalf to Orthanc. Gandalf then noticed that Saruman was wearing a robe of many colors.

Saruman offered Gandalf a choice. Claiming that the time of the Elves was over, and that the time of Men was beginning, Saruman suggested that the Wizards should be the ones to rule in this new age. For this, he said, they needed to align themselves with the rising power of Middle Earth.

{{quote|A new Power is rising. Against it the old allies and policies will not avail us at all. There is no hope left in Elves or dying Númenor. This then is one choice before you, before us. We may join with that Power. It would be wise, Gandalf. There is hope that way. Its victory is at hand; and there will be rich reward for those that aided it.|[[Saruman]]}}

Saruman then revealed that he had already figured out that Gandalf had been protecting the One Ring in The Shire. He pressed Gandalf to reveal its whereabouts. Gandalf refused to reveal anything, realizing that Saruman and Sauron were now simply two sides of the same coin.

Gandalf was taken to the Pinnacle of Orthanc, where he saw that the once-green valley of Isengard was now filled with pits and forges. Saruman has been mustering an army of Orcs and Wolves, which Gandalf surmised would be used in rivalry to Sauron rather than at his service. He could not escape the tower, and was forced to spend his days in the cold and the smoke billowing from below. Frodo exclaims that he had seen this event in one of his dreams during his journey.

Gandalf's salvation came thanks to the uncorruptible Radagast, who had fortunately merely played the part of an unwitting pawn in Saruman's plans. Radagast did as Gandalf asked, riding east to seek allies. Eventually, he found the [[Great Eagles]], who began to scout the lands around the Misty Mountains and learned of the coming of the Nazgûl and of Gollum's escape from Mirkwood. [[Gwaihir]], fastest of the Great Eagles, came to Isengard to deliver this news, only to find Gandalf at the top of the tower and bear him away from there before Saruman could intervene.

Gwaihir could not take Gandalf very far, so Gandalf decided to be taken to nearby [[Rohan]] where he could acquire a fast horse for the journey back north. Gwaihir assured him that while Rohan had been sending horses as tribute to [[Mordor]], they had not yet allied with the Dark Lord. At [[Edoras]], Gandalf discovered that Saruman's lies had already taken hold, and he was received very coldly. The king ordered him to take a horse and be gone, so Gandalf chose the best steed in the land and rode off.

Aragorn laments this state of affairs in the land of Rohan, but Boromir stands up in their defense, claiming that the [[Rohirrim]] are honorable men and would never give away their beloved horses as tribute. Gandalf agrees, adding that the horse he had chosen is indeed one of their most precious horses: [[Shadowfax]], born in the early days of the world; a horse too fast even for Nazgûl horses to catch, never before ridden by any man. He says that Shadowfax bore him from Rohan all the way to The Shire in the time it took Frodo to reach the [[Barrow-downs]]. Nevertheless, Gandalf could not catch up with the Nazgûl, who were already well ahead of him.

Gandalf reached Hobbiton and had words with [[Gaffer Gamgee]], discovering that Frodo had already left less than a week earlier, and that Black Riders had come looking for him the same night. Gandalf rode on to [[Buckland]] and found it in uproar after the Nazgûl attack on [[Crickhollow]]. At the house, he found Frodo's cape (left there by [[Fatty Bolger]]) and thought the worst had happened. He tracked two Nazgûl to Bree, where he met with Barliman Butterbur. The innkeeper broke down immediately, apologizing for letting the Hobbits continue on with Strider, not realizing that Gandalf had hoped this would happen. Overjoyed at the knowledge that the Hobbits were not captured and were now with Aragorn, Gandalf rested a night at the Prancing Pony. That night, five Black Riders stormed right through Bree, heading east. He surmises that the Black Riders had made a tactical error in splitting their forces to attack Hobbiton and Buckland, leaving the way open to the east for a short time, accidentally letting the Hobbits and Strider through.

Gandalf rode after the Nazgûl in the morning, and intercepted them at Weathertop. The Nazgûl waited for nightfall, and finally attacked. The battle raged through the night, and at sunrise Gandalf escaped to the north, drawing four of the riders away for a while, though they eventually gave up and turned back. Unable to do anything more to help, Gandalf navigated his way across country to Rivendell, and eventually released Shadowfax partway there. He says that he had become good friends with the horse, and that Shadowfax would return to his aid, if he ever called. He finally reached Rivendell only three days before Frodo.

Now that all storied have finally been told, Elrond expresses his dismay at the fall of Saruman, who had been their trusted counsel. However he also expresses great marvel at the resilience of the Hobbits during their journey, and has found Frodo's story most interesting. In particular, he notes that he had forgotten all about [[Tom Bombadil]], whom he calls Iarwain Ben-adar, "oldest and fatherless". He laments not having invited Bombadil to the council, but Gandalf says he would not have come.

Erestor asks whether it would not be wise to give the Ring to Bombadil, on whom it has no effect. Gandalf explains that while Bombadil might agree, he would not understand the importance of the task, and might even lose the Ring eventually. In any case, Gandalf asserts that even Bombadil in his own little realm could not stand up to the full power of Sauron. Glorfindel adds that taking the Ring to Bombadil in secret would also be impossible now.

Galdor agrees with this assessment, claiming that any hope remaining is now here at Rivendell, or at the Grey Havens, or in Lothlórien. Elrond responds that neither he nor those other Elven lands have the power to endure the coming storm. Glorfindel concludes that there are only two options remaining: Send the Ring west over the sea, or destroy it. Elrond counters both options: For one, the Ring cannot be destroyed by any means they possess; and the people of Valinor would not accept the Ring into their care, as it is an evil belonging to Middle-Earth, and thus a problem that the people of Middle-Earth must solve for themselves.

Glorfindel then suggests throwing the Ring into the sea, subverting and fulfilling the lie that Saruman had told them about it. Gandalf counters this by saying that vile creatures in the deep might find and retrieve it, or that the seas might one day shift and bring it back to the surface. He is adamant that a permanent end to the problem must be found. Galdor again agrees, adding that it would be extremely difficult to get the Ring to the sea anyway, with the Enemy still watching the roads there. He asserts that the Nazgûl would soon return with faster riding beasts, and would be expecting the Ring to travel west. He doubts the ability of Gondor to keep the forces of Sauron at bay much longer, and they would eventually break through and come straight for the Grey Havens. Boromir defends his people, saying they still have the strength to fight, but Galdor notes that the Black Riders might bypass Gondor altogether.

Erestor concludes that Glorfindel's earlier assessment was correct: Either they hide the Ring, or find a way to destroy it. Elrond finally speaks, agreeing that the roads to the west are predictable and must be shunned. Therefore, they must go east, to Mordor, to destroy the Ring where it was made.

Boromir interjects, offering a third options: to use the Ring as a weapon, just as Saruman had planned to do for his own ends. Elrond states that the Ring cannot be used, as it is wholly evil and obeys only the Dark Lord who made it. He brings up Saruman's corruption as an example of a once-benevolent and powerful figure consumed by desire for the Ring. He says that even Sauron was not evil in the beginning, and that if any of the Wise were to take the Ring for themselves, they would simply replace him and become evil rulers themselves. He refuses to take the Ring, even to hide it, and so does Gandalf.

Boromir is dismayed, but expresses some hope that the Sword that was Broken might still come to Gondor's aid, if Aragorn proves to be made of the same mettle as his ancestors. He also hopes that others will fight as valiantly as his people do, and Elrond reassures him that they will.

Glóin suggests pooling together the efforts of their disparate kingdoms. In particular, he suggests using the other Rings of Power to aid them in the coming conflict. He notes that one Dwarf-ring - [[Ring of Thrór|Thrór's ring]] - might still be found in Moria, and that perhaps Balin has already found it there. Gandalf reports that this is impossible, as that ring was taken by Saruman from [[Thrór]]'s heir [[Thráin]] during his torture at Dol Guldur. Glóin asks about the Elven-rings, but Elrond dismisses the question offhand. He says that the Three Rings were made without Sauron's involvement, and would serve no purpose as weapons. He adds that if Sauron was ever to regain the One Ring, anything that was gained by the Three would be subverted and ruined anyway. He remarks that this was Sauron's plan all along, and laments that the Three Rings had been created in the first place.

Glóin asks what would happen, then, if the One Ring was destroyed. Elrond responds that no one knows, but hopes that the Three would become free in that case, though they might lose all their power instead. Glorfindel remarks that the Elves are willing to take that risk, if it means ridding Middle-Earth of the threat of Sauron.

The conversation returns to the matter of destroying the Ring. Erestor comments that there is little chance of reaching the Fire where the Ring could be destroyed, calling the idea a "folly". Gandalf retorts that this might actually be an advantage: Sauron understands only the desire for power, and expects anyone who comes across the Ring to use it; he cannot understand a desire to destroy it. As such, the attempt to destroy it might catch him off-guard, at least for a while. Elrond agrees with this assessment, adding:

{{quote|This quest may be attempted by the weak with as much hope as the strong. Yet such is oft the course of deeds that move the wheels of the world: small hands do them because they must, while the eyes of the great are elsewhere.|[[Elrond]]}}

At this, Bilbo stands up, saying that he's received the hint, and volunteers to take the Ring to Mordor himself. He laments only that he might not get the chance to write the ending to his book, which would now have to be amended because he might not "live happily ever after to the end of his days". Boromir is amused by this, but quickly realizes that all others present regard Bilbo's offer with great respect. Gandalf thanks Bilbo for his bravery, but says that Bilbo's part in the story had already ended when he passed on the Ring, except to record the events in a sequel book when the chosen questers eventually come back.

Bilbo asks who those questers will be, then. Silence falls on the council as they ponder the question with heavy hearts. Frodo slowly comes to the realization that the course of events he had dreaded is now inevitable. With great difficulty, he finally speaks:

{{quote|I will take the Ring, though I do not know the way.|[[Frodo Baggins]]}}

Realizing the implications, Elrond tells Frodo that the task may have been appointed for him, and that he might be the only one who might be able to find the way. He ponders this unlikely turn of events, which none of the Wise had foreseen. He tells Frodo that the decision must be his alone, voluntarily, but that if he chose to go he would be counted among the greatest Elf-friends who ever lived, among the likes of [[Hador]], [[Húrin]], [[Túrin]] and [[Beren]].

Suddenly, Sam leaps up from his hiding place, protesting that Frodo must not be sent on this quest alone.

{{quote|No indeed! You at least shall go with him. It is hardly possible to separate you from him, even when he is summoned to a secret council and you are not.|[[Elrond]]}}

At this, Sam sinks to the floor in embarrassment, realizing the pickle he and Frodo have landed themselves in.

==Composition==
Early drafts of the chapter probably were completed near the end of [[1939]]); in that version, the original Fellowship consisted of Gandalf, Boromir, and five Hobbits including "[[Trotter|Peregrin Boffin]]".<ref>{{CG|CG}}, p. xxii</ref>

Later drafts of the chapter were reworked around [[1940]]-[[1941]], with at least three new versions. New material included Aragorn as the [[Heir of Elendil]] and related additions; but since narration was too long,background information was removed to the [[Appendices]] and to another text called ''[[Of the Rings of Power and the Third Age]]''.<ref>{{CG|CG}}, p. xxiii</ref>
{{references}}
[[Category:The Fellowship of the Ring chapters|Council of Elrond]]
[[fi:Elrondin neuvonpito (TSH)]]

The Council of Elrond

2023-09-16T04:34:51Z

Headrock: /* Summary */ More test corrections.

{{disambig-more|The Council of Elrond|[[The Council of Elrond (disambiguation)]]}}
{{chapter
| image=Peter Xavier Price - The Lord of Rivendell.jpg
| title=The Council of Elrond
| book=The Fellowship of the Ring
| number=14
| event=The [[Council of Elrond]] is held; [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] volunteers to take the [[The One Ring|

Ring]] to [[Mordor]].
| date=[[25 October]] {{TA|3018|n}}
| location=[[Rivendell]]
| perspective=[[Frodo Baggins]]
| previous=Many Meetings
| next=The Ring Goes South
}}

'''The Council of Elrond''' is the second chapter of the second book in ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.

In this chapter, the visitors to [[Rivendell]] assemble to discuss the matter of the [[One Ring]]. Each, in turn, tells news of their lands, recent events, and the reasons that had brought them to Rivendell. Finally [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] reveals the One Ring and its accompanying doom. [[Gandalf]] describes the capture of [[Gollum]], and his own imprisonment at [[Orthanc]]. A decision is made to take the One Ring to [[Mordor]], where it must be destroyed. Frodo volunteers to carry the Ring there, and when [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]] objects to him going alone, he is drafted to accompany Frodo on his task.

==Summary==

The next morning, [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] and [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]] take a walk in [[Rivendell]] and run into [[Gandalf]] and [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]]. Frodo wants to explore the wilderness around the town, but Gandalf says it will have to wait until after the [[Council of Elrond|great council]], which is about to commence. At that moment, a bell rings out to summon all to the meeting. Sam follows the others even though he was not invited.

The council takes place on the same porch where Frodo had reunited with [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] and [[Peregrin Took|Pippin]] the previous evening. Among the many attendants, Frodo spots [[Elrond]], [[Glorfindel]] and [[Glóin]], as well as [[Strider]] wearing his worn travel clothes again. Gandalf introduces Frodo to the attendants:

{{quote|Here, my friends, is the hobbit, Frodo son of Drogo. Few have ever come hither though greater peril or on an errand more urgent.|[[Gandalf]]}}

Gandalf points out several important figures to Frodo: Glóin's son, [[Gimli]]; [[Erestor]], Elrond's chief counselor; [[Galdor]], a messenger from [[Cirdan the Shipwright]] of the [[Grey Havens]]; and [[Legolas]], son of [[Thranduil]], King of the Elves of [[Mirkwood]]. Frodo also notes a [[Men|Man]] sitting apart from the others, wearing rich but travel-worn clothes, and holding a [[Great Horn|great horn]]. Gandalf says the man's name is [[Boromir]], and that he had arrived that morning from the south, seeking counsel.

Many tales are told about the goings-on in the greater world to the south and east. Frodo had already heard some of this information before, but pays close attention when Glóin begins to speak. Glóin explains that the [[Dwarves]] of [[Erebor]] had grown disquiet, and some decided to attempt to reconquer [[Moria]] under the [[Misty Mountains]].

{{quote|Moria! Moria! Wonder of the Northern world! Too deep we delved there, and woke the nameless fear. Long have its vast mansions lain empty since the children of Durin fled. But now we spoke of it again with longing, and yet with dread; for no dwarf has dared to pass the doors of Khazad-dûm for many lives of kings, save Thrór only, and he perished.|[[Glóin]]}}

Glóin explains that thirty years prior, against King [[Dáin]]'s wishes, [[Balin]] took [[Ori]] and [[Óin]] together with a multitude of other Dwarves on a quest to retake the city. While news at first indicated that they had been successful and prosperous, the messages soon ceased.

According to Glóin, one year ago a messenger from [[Mordor]] arrived at Erebor. The messenger wanted to forge a friendship between [[Sauron]] and the Dwarves. He began asking questions about creatures called [[Hobbits]] - what they were and where they lived - and indicated that Sauron knows that the Dwarves have met one.

{{quote|As a small token only of your friendship Sauron asks this: that you should find this thief, and get from him, willing or no, a little ring, the least of rings, that once he stole. It is but a trifle that Sauron fancies, and an earnest of your good will.|[[Sauron]]'s messenger to [[Erebor]]}}

In return for this information, the messenger promised Dáin three of the lost [[Seven Dwarf-rings|Dwarf-rings]], as well as a guarantee that Moria shall belong to the Dwarves forever. Dáin became very suspicious of this, and refused to give an answer immediately. The messenger gave a veiled threat and rode away. That messenger visited twice more and received the same answer, and then promised to come one final time before the end of the year. The Dwarves have since learned that similar messengers had also been sent to King [[Brand]] of [[Dale]].

The Dwarves and Men of the North now fear that Mordor is about to attack them. Dáin has sent Glóin to Rivendell to warn Bilbo that the Enemy might come for him, and to ask for Elrond's counsel on this matter. Elrond commends Dáin on his decision, but says that the Dwarves have no choice but to resist, with or without hope. He reassures them that they are not alone: the trouble belongs to all of the western world.

Elrond begins to explain the ancient history of [[The One Ring]] in full. First, he tells of how the [[Rings of Power]] were forged during the [[Second Age]] - a tale which we are told was only known in full to few of the listeners. According to Elrond, the Elves of [[Eregion]] and Dwarves of Moria were once friends; but the Elves' eagerness for knowledge made them susceptible to Sauron's charms, who at the time did not appear in his evil form. The Dark Lord learned their arts and crafted the One Ring in secret at [[Orodruin]] to control the others. Only [[Celebrimbor]] suspected him, and hid the [[Three Rings]] that he had created without Sauron's aid. A war ensued, during which the land of Eregion was destroyed and the gate of Moria was shut.

Throughout the rest of the morning, Elrond continues the story of the One Ring during the Second Age. He speaks of the fall of [[Númenor]] and the arrival of [[Men of the West]] in [[Middle-earth]]. He tells of [[Elendil]] and his sons, [[Isildur]] and [[Anárion]], who founded the northern kingdom of [[Arnor]] and southern kingdom of [[Gondor]]. Sauron assaulted their kingdoms, and the [[Last Alliance]] was forged between Elendil and [[Gil-Galad]] to defeat him.

Elrond says he remembers those days clearly. Frodo asks how this is possible, as it happened so long ago. Elrond briefly explains his lineage - descending from [[Eärendil]] and [[Elwing]] - saying that he has lived through all Three Ages of the world.

He goes on to describe the [[Battle of Dagorlad]], at which he was present: the armies of the Last Alliance stood before the [[Black Gate]] of Mordor, and could not be stopped by the evil forces. He tells of the [[Siege of Barad-dûr]] that followed, where Gil-Galad and Elendil were killed. Isildur picked up his father's broken sword, [[Narsil]], and with it cut the Ring from Sauron's hand, destroying the Dark Lord and taking the Ring for himself.

At this, Boromir suddenly interjects, surprised to hear that Isildur took the Ring; the story had been forgotten to his people, who thought that the Ring had been destroyed that day. Elrond says that he witnessed the event personally: together with Cirdan he tried to convince Isildur to destroy the Ring, then and there; however Isildur refused, claiming the Ring as compensation for his father's and brother's deaths. Elrond then speaks of Isildur's ambush by [[Orcs]] at the [[Gladden Fields]], where he lost the Ring. He notes that Isildur's squire, [[Ohtar]], survived the ambush and brought the broken shards of Narsil back to Rivendell, where Isildur's heir [[Valandil]] lived under supervision, as he was only a child at the time.

Elrond concludes the story, saying that because the Ring was not destroyed, Sauron was not wholly destroyed either. He explains that Elves and Men have grown estranged since, and that the race of Númenor has decayed: now men live shorter lives, and the Elves are decreasing in numbers. The city of [[Annúminas]] fell into ruin, and the heirs of Valandil moved to [[Fornost]], which was eventually destroyed by the forces of [[Angmar]].

Elrond now describes the annals of the realm of Gondor to the south, which still endures. Its capital once resided in [[Osgiliath]], astride both sides of the [[Anduin|Great River]]. The Men of Gondor built [[Minas Ithil]], a tower on the western slopes of the [[Ephel Dúath|Mountains of Shadow]], to guard against the evil creatures of Mordor. They then built the corresponding tower of [[Minas Anor]] on the eastern end of the [[White Mountains]]. At the top of Minas Anor was planted a [[White Tree of Gondor|white tree]], descended from a tree that once grew in the [[Valinor|Uttermost West]] in the early days of the world. Eventually, the line of kings [[Anárion]] and [[Meneldil]] failed, Númenorean blood mingled with that of "lesser men", and the tree withered. The men of Gondor failed in their vigil against Mordor, resulting in foul creatures conquering Minas Ithil (now renamed [[Minas Morgul]], the Tower of Sorcery). Minas Anor was renamed [[Minas Tirith]] (the Tower of Guard), Osgiliath was evacuated of its population, and Gondor and Mordor have been at war with each other ever since.

As Elrond finishes speaking, Boromir rises and reveals that Gondor is his homeland. He proceeds to inform the others of its current state. He claims that the blood of Númenor has not yet been spent, and that only by the valor of his countrymen in their constant battle against Morgul are the lands beyond Gondor kept safe and peaceful. He warns that Gondor's day of defeat may not be far off, as evil has awoken in Mordor once more. In June earlier this year, the Forces of Mordor invaded and conquered [[Ithilien]] - Gondor's land to the east of the Anduin. Boromir claims that Mordor is now allied with the [[Easterlings]] and [[Haradrim]], and that there is some great power strengthening their armies - a great black horseman whose mere presence inflicts fear on the bravest of men. The Gondorians have since scuttled the bridge connecting both sides of Osgiliath, cutting themselves off from Ithilien but also preventing the enemy from crossing the Anduin there. Boromir and his brother were present at the battle, and made it back across the river with only two soldiers remaining. Boromir fears that Gondor has no other ally now, except Rohan to its west.

Boromir now explains his arrival at Rivendell, saying that he has come to seek Elrond's counsel regarding a dream that he and his brother have experienced. In this dream, shadows and thunder came from the east, but in the west was still a pale light; then he heard a voice crying from the west:

{{quote|Seek for the Sword that was broken;    In Imladris it dwells; There shall be counsels taken    Stronger than Morgul-spells. There shall be shown a token    That Doom is near at hand, For Isildur's Bane shall waken    And the Halfling forth shall stand.|[[Boromir]]'s Dream}}

Boromir and his brother went to their father, [[Denethor]], Lord of Minas Tirith, and consulted with him about this dream. Denethor recognized the name "Imladris" as the home of Elrond, far away to the north. Boromir's brother volunteered to go seek it, but Boromir realized the dangerous nature of the journey and took the quest upon himself instead, despite his father's objections.

At this, Aragorn stands up and places his broken sword on the table, identifying it as the sword mentioned in Boromir's dream. Elrond introduces Aragorn to Boromir and the others as a direct descendant of Isildur himself. Frodo immediately exclaims that the Ring should be given to Aragorn, but Aragorn rejects ownership of it. Elrond instead bids Frodo hold up the Ring for all to see.

Fighting a strong reluctance to reveal the Ring, Frodo eventually does so. Elrond introduces the Ring to the others as "Isildur's Bane" - Sauron's Ruling Ring. Boromir is immediately dismayed, believing that it signals doom for his homeland. Aragorn asks Boromir whether he wishes for the House of Elendil to return to Gondor. Boromir doesn't give a clear answer; he seems desperate, but doubtful.

{{Quote|I was not sent to beg any boon, but to seek only the meaning of a riddle. Yet we are hard pressed, and the Sword of Elendil would be a help beyond our hope - if such a thing could indeed return out of the shadows of the past.|[[Boromir]]}}

Bilbo leaps up and recites the [[Riddle of Strider]] aloud, which concludes with the line "The crownless again shall be king." As he sits back down, he reveals to Frodo that it was he who had written that song after first meeting Aragorn.

Aragorn explains a little of his own background to Boromir, saying that Narsil has been passed down diligently from Valandil to each of his successive heirs, ending up with Aragorn. He forgives Boromir for doubting him, admitting that he seems nothing like Isildur or the kings of old, but claims to have made many journeys and fought many servants of the Enemy; just like Gondor in the South, the Dúnedain have been protecting the lands in the north. He tells Boromir that the Dúnedain's job has been even more thankless than Gondor's, as they are given scornful names by the very people they protect, and their work must always be kept secret from the simple folk.

Aragorn concludes by announcing that he will come to Minas Tirith to aid in the coming battle. Boromir expresses doubts about the Ring's identity, asking many questions about it and the story of its recovery. Bilbo asks to adjourn for refreshments before that story is told, but Elrond asks him to tell his story first. Before Bilbo begins his tale, he apologizes if any of those present (particularly Glóin) have heard him tell it differently before; he was simply hoping to keep the Ring for himself and avoid being called a "thief".

Bilbo recounts his encounter with Gollum in full, and is cut short by Elrond before he can describe his entire journey to Erebor. Elrond then asks Frodo to recount his own experience with the Ring since the day he received it. The other council-members ask many questions as he does so, until all details are recounted and considered. Bilbo remarks to Frodo that they should some day discuss the story in private so that Bilbo could write it down in a book.

Frodo is curious about Gandalf's absence during his journey from [[The Shire]] to Rivendell. Galdor joins Frodo in this inquiry, also asking to know why the [[Wise]] are so sure about the Ring's identity, given the long span of time that had passed between its loss and supposed reappearance. He asks about [[Saruman]]'s absence from the present council, wondering about the White Wizard's opinion on the matter at hand. Elrond calls on Gandalf as the last speaker, to answer these questions.

Gandalf first points out that there is only one ring left that Sauron might still be looking for, given that all of the others are either destroyed, in safe keeping, or in the hands of the [[Nazgûl]]. He also points out that Bilbo found his ring in the same year that Sauron (posing as the "Necromancer") was defeated at his fortress in [[Dol Guldur]] - a suspicious coincidence. Gandalf then reveals that Saruman had rejected the idea that the Ring would ever be found again - claiming it had rolled into the sea by now - and attempted to dissuade the other members of the [[White Council]] from taking any open actions against Sauron. This, Gandalf says, gave Sauron the chance to anticipate their actions and withdraw safely from Dol Guldur to Mordor, where he had already been at work building his strength. Saruman claimed that Sauron's belief that the Ring could still be found was an advantage for the White Council, as Sauron would waste effort trying to find it.

Lulled into inaction by Saruman's words, Gandalf set aside his worries about Bilbo's newfound ring; but doubt kept growing in him. Expecting Gollum to come out of his cave to seek the Ring, Gandalf did spot the creature; but when Gollum evaded him he decided to let the matter go, and did not discuss it with anyone for fear of stirring up needless trouble. However when various spies began congregating around The Shire after Bilbo's birthday party, Gandalf consulted Aragorn, who convinced him to act on his suspicions and go hunting for Gollum together.

Gandalf and Aragorn found traces of Gollum near Mordor, but could not find the creature himself. Then Gandalf was reminded of Saruman's description of the One Ring:

{{quote|The Nine, the Seven, and the Three had each their proper gem. Not so the One. It was round and unadorned, as it were one of the lesser rings; but its maker set marks upon it that the skilled, maybe, could still see and read.|[[Saruman]]'s description of the [[One Ring]], according to [[Gandalf]]}}

Not knowing what those marks might be, Gandalf figured that the only way this information could've reached Saruman was through some account by Isildur - the only person other than Sauron ever known to have definitely held the One Ring. Gandalf therefore set out to Gondor, to study their scrolls and archives. Denethor received him coldly, but allowed him to study the texts nevertheless.

Gandalf reveals that he had found a scroll written by Isildur himself after acquiring the Ring. Boromir confirms that it is common knowledge in Gondor that Isildur returned to Minas Tirith first, and lived with Meneldil for a while before setting off north - at which time he could have written such an account. Gandalf recites from the scroll, where Isildur specifically stated that he was taking the Ring to the northern kingdom and wanted to leave an account of it in Gondor, so that future generations would not forget.

According to the [[Scroll of Isildur]], the Ring had at first scorched Isildur's hand, but quickly cooled and shrank. Before it did, Isildur noted words inscribed into the Ring, which slowly faded over time. He could not read the inscription, which was written in the dark tongue of Mordor using Elvish script, but managed to copy it down before it disappeared. He surmised, correctly, that the script might re-appear if the Ring was ever reintroduced to a source of heat resembling Sauron's burning hand; but Isildur could not bring himself to do so, as the Ring was too valuable to him as an heirloom.

Upon learning this, Gandalf immediately left Minas Tirith heading north. On his way, he received messages from [[Lothlórien]] that Aragorn had managed to capture Gollum. This prompts Aragorn to tell his account of the hunt for Gollum. He had made it to the Black Gate and the [[Morgul Vale]], but could not find Gollum. He despaired and turned homewards, but then found the creature's tracks by chance and followed it into the [[Dead Marshes]], where he finally caught Gollum peering into the water. Gollum bit Aragorn, but would tell him nothing. Gollum was then bound and gagged, and made to walk all the way back to Mirkwood, where he was handed off to the Wood Elves for imprisonment. Gandalf soon arrived, and interrogated the creature at length.

Gandalf confirms that Gollums's story matches the one told by Bilbo just moments earlier. Furthermore, Gollum's interrogation revealed that he had found the ring in the Great River, and had kept it for hundreds of years - far longer than the lifespan of his race. Gandalf notes that only the Great Rings have the power to extend life to such magnitude. Gandalf hopes that this information would put Galdor's doubts to rest regarding the identity of the Ring. Nevertheless, he recounts the text that Isildur had copied down from the ring, and announces that he had performed the test of fire upon it and confirmed the appearance of the same words. Gandalf then recites the part of the [[Ring Verse]] that appeared, causing a shadow to briefly pass over Rivendell and forcing some of the Elves to stop their ears.

Finally, Gandalf reveals that Gollum had made it to Mordor, was captured and tortured there, and revealed all that he knew to Sauron. He surmises that Sauron has already figured out that the Ring is now in Rivendell.
Boromir asks what punishment was inflicted on Gollum. Gandalf says that Gollum had already suffered enough on account of the Ring and the torture in Mordor, and so was left as a prisoner in Mirkwood. He notes that Gollum was capable of much greater feats than his emaciated form might suggest on account of his burning desire for the Ring, and suspects that Gollum was released from Mordor's clutches in order to perform some unknown, nefarious task.

Legolas now joins the conversation for the first time, with alarming news: He was sent to Rivendell from Mirkwood to report that Gollum had escaped their prison. He says that, having learned of Gollum's sad story and heeded Gandalf's hopes that he might still be cured of his condition, the Elves took pity on the creature and moved him out of the dungeons. Glóin grumbles that he and [[Thorin and Company|Thorin's Company]] did not receive such tender mercy during their stay in the Elves' dungeon, forcing Gandalf to interject in order to prevent a quarrel about past grievances.

Legolas continues, describing Gollum's escape. He was taken out for a walk in the forest, and allowed to climb a tall tree he was fond of; however that day he refused to come down for many hours. The Elves stood guard at the bottom of the tree, but at night were suddenly attacked by a large group of Orcs from the mountains. When the Orcs were finally driven off, Gollum's guards were found slain, and he was gone. The Elves surmised that Gollum was somehow aware that the attack was going to occur that day, perhaps through one of Sauron's spies.

According to Legolas, the Elves began searching for Gollum immediately, and found his tracks among those of a large group of Orcs. Unfortunately, the tracks soon disappeared in the vicinity of Dol Guldur, and the Elves were reluctant to keep searching in that direction. He explains that Mirkwood has once again become full of the evil creatures that had previously been driven out after the [[Attack on Dol Guldur]]. Gandalf expresses frustration, but says that Gollum will now play whatever part was destined to him - hopefully one that Sauron has not foreseen.

Finally, Gandalf comes to the story of his own disappearance. In June he had left [[Hobbiton]] for the southern edge of The Shire, where he received news of Mordor's invasion of Ithilien. Hurrying east to [[Bree]], he ran into [[Radagast the Brown]], a fellow [[Wizard]], who had been seeking him. Radagast reported to Gandalf that Nazgûl had been sighted crossing the Great River in secret, on their way westwards, disguised as riders in black. According to Radagast, the Nazgûl had been asking anyone they came across about a land called "Shire". Radagast added that Saruman had sent him on this errand, offering to help if Gandalf wished it. Gandalf hoped that Saruman, who was wise in the ways of the Enemy, had found some weapon to help drive the Nazgûl away. Before Radagast could ride off, Gandalf asked him to have beasts and birds collect information and deliver it directly to [[Orthanc]].

Gandalf stayed that night in Bree, where he decided to ride to [[Isengard]] instead of back to the Shire. He wrote a message to Frodo and left it with his friend [[Barliman Butterbur]] at the [[Prancing Pony]]. He then rode south along the [[Misty Mountains]] to the [[Gap of Rohan]]. Gandalf continues to describe Isengard as a circle of sheer rock enclosing a valley at the southern edge of the Misty Mountains, with a lone tower at its center. As he rode through the heavily-defended gate in the rocky wall, he felt an unexplained trepidation. Reaching the tower, he was greeted by Saruman and let inside. He notes that Saruman was wearing a ring on his finger.

Gandalf asked Saruman for aid, but received only condescention in return. Saruman facetiously wondered what brought Gandalf out of The Shire, indicating that he knew Gandalf was keeping some very important secret from him. When Gandalf reported what he had heard from Radagast, Saruman insulted Radagast and revealed that he was only sent to lure Gandalf to Orthanc. Gandalf then noticed that Saruman was wearing a robe of many colors.

Saruman offered Gandalf a choice. Claiming that the time of the Elves was over, and that the time of Men was beginning, Saruman suggested that the Wizards should be the ones to rule in this new age. For this, he said, they needed to align themselves with the rising power of Middle Earth.

{{quote|A new Power is rising. Against it the old allies and policies will not avail us at all. There is no hope left in Elves or dying Númenor. This then is one choice before you, before us. We may join with that Power. It would be wise, Gandalf. There is hope that way. Its victory is at hand; and there will be rich reward for those that aided it.|[[Saruman]]}}

Saruman then revealed that he had already figured out that Gandalf had been protecting the One Ring in The Shire. He pressed Gandalf to reveal its whereabouts. Gandalf refused to reveal anything, realizing that Saruman and Sauron were now simply two sides of the same coin.

Gandalf was taken to the Pinnacle of Orthanc, where he saw that the once-green valley of Isengard was now filled with pits and forges. Saruman has been mustering an army of Orcs and Wolves, which Gandalf surmised would be used in rivalry to Sauron rather than at his service. He could not escape the tower, and was forced to spend his days in the cold and the smoke billowing from below. Frodo exclaims that he had seen this event in one of his dreams during his journey.

Gandalf's salvation came thanks to the uncorruptible Radagast, who had fortunately merely played the part of an unwitting pawn in Saruman's plans. Radagast did as Gandalf asked, riding east to seek allies. Eventually, he found the [[Great Eagles]], who began to scout the lands around the Misty Mountains and learned of the coming of the Nazgûl and of Gollum's escape from Mirkwood. [[Gwaihir]], fastest of the Great Eagles, came to Isengard to deliver this news, only to find Gandalf at the top of the tower and bear him away from there before Saruman could intervene.

Gwaihir could not take Gandalf very far, so Gandalf decided to be taken to nearby [[Rohan]] where he could acquire a fast horse for the journey back north. Gwaihir assured him that while Rohan had been sending horses as tribute to [[Mordor]], they had not yet allied with the Dark Lord. At [[Edoras]], Gandalf discovered that Saruman's lies had already taken hold, and he was received very coldly. The king ordered him to take a horse and be gone, so Gandalf chose the best steed in the land and rode off.

Aragorn laments this state of affairs in the land of Rohan, but Boromir stands up in their defense, claiming that the [[Rohirrim]] are honorable men and would never give away their beloved horses as tribute. Gandalf agrees, adding that the horse he had chosen is indeed one of their most precious horses: [[Shadowfax]], born in the early days of the world; a horse too fast even for Nazgûl horses to catch, never before ridden by any man. He says that Shadowfax bore him from Rohan all the way to The Shire in the time it took Frodo to reach the [[Barrow-downs]]. Nevertheless, Gandalf could not catch up with the Nazgûl, who were already well ahead of him.

Gandalf reached Hobbiton and had words with [[Gaffer Gamgee]], discovering that Frodo had already left less than a week earlier, and that Black Riders had come looking for him the same night. Gandalf rode on to [[Buckland]] and found it in uproar after the Nazgûl attack on [[Crickhollow]]. At the house, he found Frodo's cape (left there by [[Fatty Bolger]]) and thought the worst had happened. He tracked two Nazgûl to Bree, where he met with Barliman Butterbur. The innkeeper broke down immediately, apologizing for letting the Hobbits continue on with Strider, not realizing that Gandalf had hoped this would happen. Overjoyed at the knowledge that the Hobbits were not captured and were now with Aragorn, Gandalf rested a night at the Prancing Pony. That night, five Black Riders stormed right through Bree, heading east. He surmises that the Black Riders had made a tactical error in splitting their forces to attack Hobbiton and Buckland, leaving the way open to the east for a short time, accidentally letting the Hobbits and Strider through.

Gandalf rode after the Nazgûl in the morning, and intercepted them at Weathertop. The Nazgûl waited for nightfall, and finally attacked. The battle raged through the night, and at sunrise Gandalf escaped to the north, drawing four of the riders away for a while, though they eventually gave up and turned back. Unable to do anything more to help, Gandalf navigated his way across country to Rivendell, and eventually released Shadowfax partway there. He says that he had become good friends with the horse, and that Shadowfax would return to his aid, if he ever called. He finally reached Rivendell only three days before Frodo.

Now that all storied have finally been told, Elrond expresses his dismay at the fall of Saruman, who had been their trusted counsel. However he also expresses great marvel at the resilience of the Hobbits during their journey, and has found Frodo's story most interesting. In particular, he notes that he had forgotten all about [[Tom Bombadil]], whom he calls Iarwain Ben-adar, "oldest and fatherless". He laments not having invited Bombadil to the council, but Gandalf says he would not have come.

Erestor asks whether it would not be wise to give the Ring to Bombadil, on whom it has no effect. Gandalf explains that while Bombadil might agree, he would not understand the importance of the task, and might even lose the Ring eventually. In any case, Gandalf asserts that even Bombadil in his own little realm could not stand up to the full power of Sauron. Glorfindel adds that taking the Ring to Bombadil in secret would also be impossible now.

Galdor agrees with this assessment, claiming that any hope remaining is now here at Rivendell, or at the Grey Havens, or in Lothlórien. Elrond responds that neither he nor those other Elven lands have the power to endure the coming storm. Glorfindel concludes that there are only two options remaining: Send the Ring west over the sea, or destroy it. Elrond counters both options: For one, the Ring cannot be destroyed by any means they possess; and the people of Valinor would not accept the Ring into their care, as it is an evil belonging to Middle-Earth, and thus a problem that the people of Middle-Earth must solve for themselves.

Glorfindel then suggests throwing the Ring into the sea, subverting and fulfilling the lie that Saruman had told them about it. Gandalf counters this by saying that vile creatures in the deep might find and retrieve it, or that the seas might one day shift and bring it back to the surface. He is adamant that a permanent end to the problem must be found. Galdor again agrees, adding that it would be extremely difficult to get the Ring to the sea anyway, with the Enemy still watching the roads there. He asserts that the Nazgûl would soon return with faster riding beasts, and would be expecting the Ring to travel west. He doubts the ability of Gondor to keep the forces of Sauron at bay much longer, and they would eventually break through and come straight for the Grey Havens. Boromir defends his people, saying they still have the strength to fight, but Galdor notes that the Black Riders might bypass Gondor altogether.

Erestor concludes that Glorfindels earlier assessment was correct: Either they hide the Ring, or find a way to destroy it. Elrond finally speaks, agreeing that the roads to the west are predictable and must be shunned. Therefore, they must go east, to Mordor, to destroy the Ring where it was made.

Boromir interjects, offering a third options: to use the Ring as a weapon, just as Saruman had planned to do for his own ends. Elrond states that the Ring cannot be used, as it is wholly evil and obeys only the Dark Lord who made it. He brings up Saruman's corruption as an example of a once-benevolent and powerful figure consumed by desire for the Ring. He says that even Sauron was not evil in the beginning, and that if any of the Wise were to take the Ring for themselves, they would simply replace him and become evil rulers themselves. He refuses to take the Ring, even to hide it, and so does Gandalf.

Boromir is dismayed, but expresses some hope that the Sword that was Broken might still come to Gondor's aid, if Aragorn proves to be made of the same mettle as his ancestors. He also hopes that others will fight as valiantly as his people do, and Elrond reassures him that they will.

Glóin suggests pooling together the efforts of their disparate kingdoms. In particular, he suggests using the other Rings of Power to aid them in the coming conflict. He notes that one Dwarf-ring - [[Ring of Thrór|Thrór's ring]] - might still be found in Moria, and that perhaps Balin has already found it there. Gandalf reports that this is impossible, as that ring was taken by Saruman from [[Thrór]]'s heir [[Thráin]] during his torture at Dol Guldur. Glóin asks about the Elven-rings, but Elrond dismisses the question offhand. He says that the Three Rings were made without Sauron's involvement, and would serve no purpose as weapons. He adds that if Sauron was ever to regain the One Ring, anything that was gained by the Three would be subverted and ruined anyway. He remarks that this was Sauron's plan all along, and laments that the Three Rings had been created in the first place.

Glóin asks what would happen, then, if the One Ring was destroyed. Elrond responds that no one knows, but hopes that the Three would become free in that case, though they might lose all their power instead. Glorfindel remarks that the Elves are willing to take that risk, if it means ridding Middle-Earth of the threat of Sauron.

The conversation returns to the matter of destroying the Ring. Erestor comments that there is little chance of reaching the Fire where the Ring could be destroyed, calling the idea a "folly". Gandalf retorts that this might actually be an advantage: Sauron understands only the desire for power, and expects anyone who comes across the Ring to use it; he cannot understand a desire to destroy it. As such, the attempt to destroy it might catch him off-guard, at least for a while. Elrond agrees with this assessment, adding:

{{quote|This quest may be attempted by the weak with as much hope as the strong. Yet such is oft the course of deeds that move the wheels of the world: small hands do them because they must, while the eyes of the great are elsewhere.|[[Elrond]]}}

At this, Bilbo stands up, saying that he's received the hint, and volunteers to take the Ring to Mordor himself. He laments only that he might not get the chance to write the ending to his book, which would now have to be amended because he might not "live happily ever after to the end of his days". Boromir is amused by this, but quickly realizes that all others present regard Bilbo's offer with great respect. Gandalf thanks Bilbo for his bravery, but says that Bilbo's part in the story had already ended when he passed on the Ring, except to record the events in a sequel book when the chosen questers eventually come back.

Bilbo asks who those questers will be, then. Silence falls on the council as they ponder the question with heavy hearts. Frodo slowly comes to the realization that the course of events he had dreaded is now inevitable. With great difficulty, he finally speaks:

{{quote|I will take the Ring, though I do not know the way.|[[Frodo Baggins]]}}

Realizing the implications, Elrond tells Frodo that the task may have been appointed for him, and that he might be the only one who might be able to find the way. He ponders this unlikely turn of events, which none of the Wise had foreseen. He tells Frodo that the decision must be his alone, voluntarily, but that if he chose to go he would be counted among the greatest Elf-friends who ever lived, among the likes of [[Hador]], [[Húrin]], [[Túrin]] and [[Beren]].

Suddenly, Sam leaps up from his hiding place, protesting that Frodo must not be sent on this quest alone.

{{quote|No indeed! You at least shall go with him. It is hardly possible to separate you from him, even when he is summoned to a secret council and you are not.|[[Elrond]]}}

At this, Sam sinks to the floor in embarrassment, realizing the pickle he and Frodo have landed themselves in.

==Composition==
Early drafts of the chapter probably were completed near the end of [[1939]]); in that version, the original Fellowship consisted of Gandalf, Boromir, and five Hobbits including "[[Trotter|Peregrin Boffin]]".<ref>{{CG|CG}}, p. xxii</ref>

Later drafts of the chapter were reworked around [[1940]]-[[1941]], with at least three new versions. New material included Aragorn as the [[Heir of Elendil]] and related additions; but since narration was too long,background information was removed to the [[Appendices]] and to another text called ''[[Of the Rings of Power and the Third Age]]''.<ref>{{CG|CG}}, p. xxiii</ref>
{{references}}
[[Category:The Fellowship of the Ring chapters|Council of Elrond]]
[[fi:Elrondin neuvonpito (TSH)]]

The Council of Elrond

2023-09-16T04:21:49Z

Headrock:

{{disambig-more|The Council of Elrond|[[The Council of Elrond (disambiguation)]]}}
{{chapter
| image=Peter Xavier Price - The Lord of Rivendell.jpg
| title=The Council of Elrond
| book=The Fellowship of the Ring
| number=14
| event=The [[Council of Elrond]] is held; [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] volunteers to take the [[The One Ring|

Ring]] to [[Mordor]].
| date=[[25 October]] {{TA|3018|n}}
| location=[[Rivendell]]
| perspective=[[Frodo Baggins]]
| previous=Many Meetings
| next=The Ring Goes South
}}

'''The Council of Elrond''' is the second chapter of the second book in ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.

In this chapter, the visitors to [[Rivendell]] assemble to discuss the matter of the [[One Ring]]. Each, in turn, tells news of their lands, recent events, and the reasons that had brought them to Rivendell. Finally [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] reveals the One Ring and its accompanying doom. [[Gandalf]] describes the capture of [[Gollum]], and his own imprisonment at [[Orthanc]]. A decision is made to take the One Ring to [[Mordor]], where it must be destroyed. Frodo volunteers to carry the Ring there, and when [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]] objects to him going alone, he is drafted to accompany Frodo on his task.

==Summary==

The next morning, [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] and [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]] take a walk in [[Rivendell]] and run into [[Gandalf]] and [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]]. Frodo wants to explore the wilderness around the town, but Gandalf says it will have to wait until after the [[Council of Elrond|great council]], which is about to commence. At that moment, a bell rings out to summon all to the meeting. Sam follows the others even though he was not invited.

The council takes place on the same porch where Frodo had reunited with [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] and [[Peregrin Took|Pippin]] the previous evening. Among the many attendants, Frodo spots [[Elrond]], [[Glorfindel]] and [[Glóin]], as well as [[Strider]] wearing his worn travel clothes again. Gandalf introduces Frodo to the attendants:

{{quote|Here, my friends, is the hobbit, Frodo son of Drogo. Few have ever come hither though greater peril or on an errand more urgent.|[[Gandalf]]}}

Gandalf points out several important figures to Frodo: Glóin's son, [[Gimli]]; [[Erestor]], Elrond's chief counselor; [[Galdor]], a messenger from [[Cirdan the Shipwright]] of the [[Grey Havens]]; and [[Legolas]], son of [[Thranduil]], King of the Elves of [[Mirkwood]]. Frodo also notes a [[Men|Man]] sitting apart from the others, wearing rich but travel-worn clothes, and holding a [[Great Horn|great horn]]. Gandalf says the man's name is [[Boromir]], and that he had arrived that morning from the south, seeking counsel.

Many tales are told about the goings-on in the greater world to the south and east. Frodo had already heard some of this information before, but pays close attention when Glóin begins to speak. Glóin explains that the [[Dwarves]] of [[Erebor]] had grown disquiet, and some decided to attempt to reconquer [[Moria]] under the [[Misty Mountains]].

{{quote|Moria! Moria! Wonder of the Northern world! Too deep we delved there, and woke the nameless fear. Long have its vast mansions lain empty since the children of Durin fled. But now we spoke of it again with longing, and yet with dread; for no dwarf has dared to pass the doors of Khazad-dûm for many lives of kings, save Thrór only, and he perished.|[[Glóin]]}}

Glóin explains that thirty years prior, against King [[Dáin]]'s wishes, [[Balin]] took [[Ori]] and [[Óin]] together with a multitude of other Dwarves on a quest to retake the city. While news at first indicated that they had been successful and prosperous, the messages soon ceased.

According to Glóin, one year ago a messenger from [[Mordor]] arrived at Erebor. The messenger wanted to forge a friendship between [[Sauron]] and the Dwarves. He began asking questions about creatures called [[Hobbits]] - what they were and where they lived - and indicated that Sauron knows that the Dwarves have met one.

{{quote|As a small token only of your friendship Sauron asks this: that you should find this thief, and get from him, willing or no, a little ring, the least of rings, that once he stole. It is but a trifle that Sauron fancies, and an earnest of your good will.|[[Sauron]]'s messenger to [[Erebor]]}}

In return for this information, the messenger promised Dáin three of the lost [[Seven Dwarf-rings|Dwarf-rings]], as well as a guarantee that Moria shall belong to the Dwarves forever. Dáin became very suspicious of this, and refused to give an answer immediately. The messenger gave a veiled threat and rode away. That messenger visited twice more and received the same answer, and then promised to come one final time before the end of the year. The Dwarves have since learned that similar messengers had also been sent to King [[Brand]] of [[Dale]].

The Dwarves and Men of the North now fear that Mordor is about to attack them. Dáin has sent Glóin to Rivendell to warn Bilbo that the Enemy might come for him, and to ask for Elrond's counsel on this matter. Elrond commends Dáin on his decision, but says that the Dwarves have no choice but to resist, with or without hope. He reassures them that they are not alone: the trouble belongs to all of the western world.

Elrond begins to explain the ancient history of [[The One Ring]] in full. First, he tells of how the [[Rings of Power]] were forged during the [[Second Age]] - a tale which we are told was only known in full to few of the listeners. According to Elrond, the Elves of [[Eregion]] and Dwarves of Moria were once friends; but the Elves' eagerness for knowledge made them susceptible to Sauron's charms, who at the time did not appear in his evil form. The Dark Lord learned their arts and crafted the One Ring in secret at [[Orodruin]] to control the others. Only [[Celebrimbor]] suspected him, and hid the [[Three Rings]] that he had created without Sauron's aid. A war ensued, during which the land of Eregion was destroyed and the gate of Moria was shut.

Throughout the rest of the morning, Elrond continues the story of the One Ring during the Second Age. He speaks of the fall of [[Númenor]] and the arrival of [[Men of the West]] in [[Middle-earth]]. He tells of [[Elendil]] and his sons, [[Isildur]] and [[Anárion]], who founded the northern kingdom of [[Arnor]] and southern kingdom of [[Gondor]]. Sauron assaulted their kingdoms, and the [[Last Alliance]] was forged between Elendil and [[Gil-Galad]] to defeat him.

Elrond says he remembers those days clearly. Frodo asks how this is possible, as it happened so long ago. Elrond briefly explains his lineage - descending from [[Eärendil]] and [[Elwing]] - saying that he has lived through all Three Ages of the world.

He goes on to describe the [[Battle of Dagorlad]], at which he was present: the armies of the Last Alliance stood before the [[Black Gate]] of Mordor, and could not be stopped by the evil forces. He tells of the [[Siege of Barad-dûr]] that followed, where Gil-Galad and Elendil were killed. Isildur picked up his father's broken sword, [[Narsil]], and with it cut the Ring from Sauron's hand, destroying the Dark Lord and taking the Ring for himself.

At this, Boromir suddenly interjects, surprised to hear that Isildur took the Ring; the story had been forgotten to his people, who thought that the Ring had been destroyed that day. Elrond says that he witnessed the event personally: together with Cirdan he tried to convince Isildur to destroy the Ring, then and there; however Isildur refused, claiming the Ring as compensation for his father's and brother's deaths. Elrond then speaks of Isildur's ambush by [[Orcs]] at the [[Gladden Fields]], where he lost the Ring. He notes that Isildur's squire, [[Ohtar]], survived the ambush and brought the broken shards of Narsil back to Rivendell, where Isildur's heir [[Valandil]] lived under supervision, as he was only a child at the time.

Elrond concludes the story, saying that because the Ring was not destroyed, Sauron was not wholly destroyed either. He explains that Elves and Men have grown estranged since, and that the race of Númenor has decayed: now men live shorter lives, and the Elves are decreasing in numbers. The city of [[Annúminas]] fell into ruin, and the heirs of Valandil moved to [[Fornost]], which was eventually destroyed by the forces of [[Angmar]].

Elrond now describes the annals of the realm of Gondor to the south, which still endures. Its capital once resided in [[Osgiliath]], astride both sides of the [[Anduin|Great River]]. The Men of Gondor built [[Minas Ithil]], a tower on the western slopes of the [[Ephel Dúath|Mountains of Shadow]], to guard against the evil creatures of Mordor. They then built the corresponding tower of [[Minas Anor]] on the eastern end of the [[White Mountains]]. At the top of Minas Anor was planted a [[White Tree of Gondor|white tree]], descended from a tree that once grew in the [[Valinor|Uttermost West]] in the early days of the world. Eventually, the line of kings [[Anárion]] and [[Meneldil]] failed, Númenorean blood mingled with that of "lesser men", and the tree withered. The men of Gondor failed in their vigil against Mordor, resulting in foul creatures conquering Minas Ithil (now renamed [[Minas Morgul]], the Tower of Sorcery). Minas Anor was renamed [[Minas Tirith]] (the Tower of Guard), Osgiliath was evacuated of its population, and Gondor and Mordor have been at war with each other ever since.

As Elrond finishes speaking, Boromir rises and reveals that Gondor is his homeland. He proceeds to inform the others of its current state. He claims that the blood of Númenor has not yet been spent, and that only by the valor of his countrymen in their constant battle against Morgul are the lands beyond Gondor kept safe and peaceful. He warns that Gondor's day of defeat may not be far off, as evil has awoken in Mordor once more. In June earlier this year, the Forces of Mordor invaded and conquered [[Ithilien]] - Gondor's land to the east of the Anduin. Boromir claims that Mordor is now allied with the [[Easterlings]] and [[Haradrim]], and that there is some great power strengthening their armies - a great black horseman whose mere presence inflicts fear on the bravest of men. The Gondorians have since scuttled the bridge connecting both sides of Osgiliath, cutting themselves off from Ithilien but also preventing the enemy from crossing the Anduin there. Boromir and his brother were present at the battle, and made it back across the river with only two soldiers remaining. Boromir fears that Gondor has no other ally now, except Rohan to its west.

Boromir now explains his arrival at Rivendell, saying that he has come to seek Elrond's counsel regarding a dream that he and his brother have experienced. In this dream, shadows and thunder came from the east, but in the west was still a pale light; then he heard a voice crying from the west:

{{quote|Seek for the Sword that was broken;    In Imladris it dwells; There shall be counsels taken    Stronger than Morgul-spells. There shall be shown a token    That Doom is near at hand, For Isildur's Bane shall waken    And the Halfling forth shall stand.|[[Boromir]]'s Dream}}

Boromir and his brother went to their father, [[Denethor]], Lord of Minas Tirith, and consulted with him about this dream. Denethor recognized the name "Imladris" as the home of Elrond, far away to the north. Boromir's brother volunteered to go seek it, but Boromir realized the dangerous nature of the journey and took the quest upon himself instead, despite his father's objections.

At this, Aragorn stands up and places his broken sword on the table, identifying it as the sword mentioned in Boromir's dream. Elrond introduces Aragorn to Boromir and the others as a direct descendant of Isildur himself. Frodo immediately exclaims that the Ring should be given to Aragorn, but Aragorn rejects ownership of it. Elrond instead bids Frodo hold up the Ring for all to see.

Fighting a strong reluctance to reveal the Ring, Frodo eventually does so. Elrond introduces the Ring to the others as "Isildur's Bane" - Sauron's Ruling Ring. Boromir is immediately dismayed, believing that it signals doom for his homeland. Aragorn asks Boromir whether he wishes for the House of Elendil to return to Gondor. Boromir doesn't give a clear answer; he seems desperate, but doubtful.

{{Quote|I was not sent to beg any boon, but to seek only the meaning of a riddle. Yet we are hard pressed, and the Sword of Elendil would be a help beyond our hope - if such a thing could indeed return out of the shadows of the past.|[[Boromir]]}}

Bilbo leaps up and recites the [[Riddle of Strider]] aloud, which concludes with the line "The crownless again shall be king." As he sits back down, he reveals to Frodo that it was he who had written that song after first meeting Aragorn.

Aragorn explains a little of his own background to Boromir, saying that Narsil has been passed down diligently from Valandil to each of his successive heirs, ending up with Aragorn. He forgives Boromir for doubting him, admitting that he seems nothing like Isildur or the kings of old, but claims to have made many journeys and fought many servants of the Enemy; just like Gondor in the South, the Dúnedain have been protecting the lands in the north. He tells Boromir that the Dúnedain's job has been even more thankless than Gondor's, as they are given scornful names by the very people they protect, and their work must always be kept secret from the simple folk.

Aragorn concludes by announcing that he will come to Minas Tirith to aid in the coming battle. Boromir expresses doubts about the Ring's identity, asking many questions about it and the story of its recovery. Bilbo asks to adjourn for refreshments before that story is told, but Elrond asks him to tell his story first. Before Bilbo begins his tale, he apologizes if any of those present (particularly Glóin) have heard him tell it differently before; he was simply hoping to keep the Ring for himself and avoid being called a "thief".

Bilbo recounts his encounter with Gollum in full, and is cut short by Elrond before he can describe his entire journey to Erebor. Elrond then asks Frodo to recount his own experience with the Ring since the day he received it. The other council-members ask many questions as he does so, until all details are recounted and considered. Bilbo remarks to Frodo that they should some day discuss the story in private so that Bilbo could write it down in a book.

Frodo is curious about Gandalf's absence during his journey from [[The Shire]] to Rivendell. Galdor joins Frodo in this inquiry, also asking to know why the [[Wise]] are so sure about the Ring's identity, given the long span of time that had passed between its loss and supposed reappearance. He asks about [[Saruman]]'s absence from the present council, wondering about the White Wizard's opinion on the matter at hand. Elrond calls on Gandalf as the last speaker, to answer these questions.

Gandalf first points out that there is only one ring left that Sauron might still be looking for, given that all of the others are either destroyed, in safe keeping, or in the hands of the [[Nazgûl]]. He also points out that Bilbo found his ring in the same year that Sauron (posing as the "Necromancer") was defeated at his fortress in [[Dol Guldur]] - a suspicious coincidence. Gandalf then reveals that Saruman had rejected the idea that the Ring would ever be found again - claiming it had rolled into the sea by now - and attempted to dissuade the other members of the [[White Council]] from taking any open actions against Sauron. This, Gandalf says, gave Sauron the chance to anticipate their actions and withdraw safely from Dol Guldur to Mordor, where he had already been at work building his strength. Saruman claimed that Sauron's belief that the Ring could still be found was an advantage for the White Council, as Sauron would waste effort trying to find it.

Lulled into inaction by Saruman's words, Gandalf set aside his worries about Bilbo's newfound ring; but doubt kept growing in him. Expecting Gollum to come out of his cave to seek the Ring, Gandalf did spot the creature; but when Gollum evaded him he decided to let the matter go, and did not discuss it with anyone for fear of stirring up needless trouble. However when various spies began congregating around The Shire after Bilbo's birthday party, Gandalf consulted Aragorn, who convinced him to act on his suspicions and go hunting for Gollum together.

Gandalf and Aragorn found traces of Gollum near Mordor, but could not find the creature himself. Then Gandalf was reminded of Saruman's description of the One Ring:

{{quote|The Nine, the Seven, and the Three had each their proper gem. Not so the One. It was round and unadorned, as it were one of the lesser rings; but its maker set marks upon it that the skilled, maybe, could still see and read.|[[Saruman]]'s description of the [[One Ring]], according to [[Gandalf]]}}

Not knowing what those marks might be, Gandalf figured that the only way this information could've reached Saruman was through some account by Isildur - the only person other than Sauron ever known to have definitely held the One Ring. Gandalf therefore set out to Gondor, to study their scrolls and archives. Denethor received him coldly, but allowed him to study the texts nevertheless.

Gandalf reveals that he had found a scroll written by Isildur himself after acquiring the Ring. Boromir confirms that it is common knowledge in Gondor that Isildur returned to Minas Tirith first, and lived with Meneldil for a while before setting off north - at which time he could have written such an account. Gandalf recites from the scroll, where Isildur specifically stated that he was taking the Ring to the northern kingdom and wanted to leave an account of it in Gondor, so that future generations would not forget.

According to the [[Scroll of Isildur]], the Ring had at first scorched Isildur's hand, but quickly cooled and shrank. Before it did, Isildur noted words inscribed into the Ring, which slowly faded over time. He could not read the inscription, which was written in the dark tongue of Mordor using Elvish script, but managed to copy it down before it disappeared. He surmised, correctly, that the script might re-appear if the Ring was ever reintroduced to a source of heat resembling Sauron's burning hand; but Isildur could not bring himself to do so, as the Ring was too valuable to him as an heirloom.

Upon learning this, Gandalf immediately left Minas Tirith heading north. On his way, he received messages from [[Lothlórien]] that Aragorn had managed to capture Gollum. This prompts Aragorn to tell his account of the hunt for Gollum. He had made it to the Black Gate and the [[Morgul Vale]], but could not find Gollum. He despaired and turned homewards, but then found the creature's tracks by chance and followed it into the [[Dead Marshes]], where he finally caught Gollum peering into the water. Gollum bit Aragorn, but would tell him nothing. Gollum was then bound and gagged, and made to walk all the way back to Mirkwood, where he was handed off to the Wood Elves for imprisonment. Gandalf soon arrived, and interrogated the creature at length.

Gandalf confirms that Gollums's story matches the one told by Bilbo just moments earlier. Furthermore, Gollum's interrogation revealed that he had found the ring in the Great River, and had kept it for hundreds of years - far longer than the lifespan of his race. Gandalf notes that only the Great Rings have the power to extend life to such magnitude. Gandalf hopes that this information would put Galdor's doubts to rest regarding the identity of the Ring. Nevertheless, he recounts the text that Isildur had copied down from the ring, and announces that he had performed the test of fire upon it and confirmed the appearance of the same words. Gandalf then recites the part of the [[Ring Verse]] that appeared, causing a shadow to briefly pass over Rivendell and forcing some of the Elves to stop their ears.

Finally, Gandalf reveals that Gollum had made it to Mordor, was captured and tortured there, and revealed all that he knew to Sauron. He surmises that Sauron has already figured out that the Ring is now in Rivendell.
Boromir asks what punishment was inflicted on Gollum. Gandalf says that Gollum had already suffered enough on account of the Ring and the torture in Mordor, and so was left as a prisoner in Mirkwood. He notes that Gollum was capable of much greater feats than his emaciated form might suggest on account of his burning desire for the Ring, and suspects that Gollum was released from Mordor's clutches in order to perform some unknown, nefarious task.

Legolas now joins the conversation for the first time, with alarming news: He was sent to Rivendell from Mirkwood to report that Gollum had escaped their prison. He says that, having learned of Gollum's sad story and heeded Gandalf's hopes that he might still be cured of his condition, the Elves took pity on the creature and moved him out of the dungeons. Glóin grumbles that he and [[Thorin and Company|Thorin's Company]] did not receive such tender mercy during their stay in the Elves' dungeon, forcing Gandalf to interject in order to prevent a quarrel about past grievances.

Legolas continues, describing Gollum's escape. He was taken out for a walk in the forest, and allowed to climb a tall tree he was fond of; however that day he refused to come down for many hours. The Elves stood guard at the bottom of the tree, but at night were suddenly attacked by a large group of Orcs from the mountains. When the Orcs were finally driven off, Gollum's guards were found slain, and he was gone. The Elves surmised that Gollum was somehow aware that the attack was going to occur that day, perhaps through one of Sauron's spies.

According to Legolas, the Elves began searching for Gollum immediately, and found his tracks among those of a large group of Orcs. Unfortunately, the tracks soon disappeared in the vicinity of Dol Guldur, and the Elves were reluctant to keep searching in that direction. He explains that Mirkwood has once again become full of the evil creatures that had previously been driven out after the [[Attack on Dol Guldur]]. Gandalf expresses frustration, but says that Gollum will now play whatever part was destined to him - hopefully one that Sauron has not foreseen.

Finally, Gandalf comes to the story of his own disappearance. In June he had left [[Hobbiton]] for the southern edge of The Shire, where he received news of Mordor's invasion of Ithilien. Hurrying east to [[Bree]], he ran into [[Radagast the Brown]], a fellow [[Wizard]], who had been seeking him. Radagast reported to Gandalf that Nazgûl had been sighted crossing the Great River in secret, on their way westwards, disguised as riders in black. According to Radagast, the Nazgûl had been asking anyone they came across about a land called "Shire". Radagast adds that Saruman had sent him on this errand, offering to help if Gandalf wished it. Gandalf hoped that Saruman, who was wise in the ways of the Enemy, had found some weapon to help drive the Nazgûl away. Before Radagast could ride off, Gandalf asked him to have beasts and birds collect information and deliver it directly to [[Orthanc]].

Gandalf stayed that night in Bree, where he decided to ride to [[Isengard]] instead of back to the Shire. He wrote a message to Frodo and left it with his friend [[Barliman Butterbur]] at the [[Prancing Pony]]. He then rode south along the [[Misty Mountains]] to the [[Gap of Rohan]]. Gandalf continues to describe Isengard as a circle of sheer rock enclosing a valley at the southern edge of the Misty Mountains, with a lone tower at its center. As he rode through the heavily-defended gate in the rocky wall, he felt an unexplained trepidation. Reaching the tower, he was greeted by Saruman and let inside. He notes that Saruman was wearing a ring on his finger.

Gandalf asked Saruman for aid, but received only condescention in return. Saruman facetiously wondered what brought Gandalf out of The Shire, indicating that he knew Gandalf was keeping some very important secret from him. When Gandalf reported what he had heard from Radagast, Saruman insulted Radagast and revealed that he was only sent to lure Gandalf to Orthanc. Gandalf then noticed that Saruman was wearing a robe of many colors.

Saruman offered Gandalf a choice. Claiming that the time of the Elves was over, and that the time of Men was beginning, Saruman suggested that the Wizards should be the ones to rule in this new age. For this, he said, they needed to align themselves with the rising power of Middle Earth.

{{quote|A new Power is rising. Against it the old allies and policies will not avail us at all. There is no hope left in Elves or dying Númenor. This then is one choice before you, before us. We may join with that Power. It would be wise, Gandalf. There is hope that way. Its victory is at hand; and there will be rich reward for those that aided it.|[[Saruman]]}}

Saruman then revealed that he had already figured out that Gandalf had been protecting the One Ring in The Shire. He pressed Gandalf to reveal its whereabouts. Gandalf refused to reveal anything, realizing that Saruman and Sauron were now simply two sides of the same coin.

Gandalf was taken to the Pinnacle of Orthanc, where he saw that the once-green valley of Isengard was now filled with pits and forges. Saruman has been mustering an army of Orcs and Wolves, which Gandalf surmised would be used in rivalry to Sauron rather than at his service. He could not escape the tower, and was forced to spend his days in the cold and the smoke billowing from below. Frodo exclaims that he had seen this event in one of his dreams during his journey.

Gandalf's salvation came thanks to the uncorruptible Radagast, who had fortunately merely played the part of an unwitting pawn in Saruman's plans. Radagast did as Gandalf asked, riding east to seek allies. Eventually, he found the [[Great Eagles]], who began to scout the lands around the Misty Mountains and learned of the coming of the Nazgûl and of Gollum's escape from Mirkwood. [[Gwaihir]], fastest of the Great Eagles, came to Isengard to deliver this news, only to find Gandalf at the top of the tower and bear him away from there before Saruman could intervene.

Gwaihir could not take Gandalf very far, so Gandalf decided to be taken to nearby [[Rohan]] where he could acquire a fast horse for the journey back north. Gwaihir assured him that while Rohan had been sending horses as tribute to [[Mordor]], they had not yet allied with the Dark Lord. At [[Edoras]], Gandalf discovered that Saruman's lies had already taken hold, and he was received very coldly. The king ordered him to take a horse and be gone, so Gandalf chose the best steed in the land and rode off.

Aragorn laments this state of affairs in the land of Rohan, but Boromir stands up in their defense, claiming that the [[Rohirrim]] are honorable men and would never give away their beloved horses as tribute. Gandalf agrees, adding that the horse he had chosen is indeed one of their most precious horses: [[Shadowfax]], born in the early days of the world; a horse too fast even for Nazgûl horses to catch, never before ridden by any man. He says that Shadowfax bore him from Rohan all the way to The Shire in the time it took Frodo to reach the [[Barrow-downs]]. Nevertheless, Gandalf could not catch up with the Nazgûl, who were already well ahead of him.

Gandalf reached Hobbiton and had words with [[Gaffer Gamgee]], discovering that Frodo had already left less than a week earlier, and that Black Riders had come looking for him the same night. Gandalf rode on to [[Buckland]] and found it in uproar after the Nazgûl attack on [[Crickhollow]]. At the house, he found Frodo's cape (left there by [[Fatty Bolger]]) and thought the worst had happened. He tracked two Nazgûl to Bree, where he met with Barliman Butterbur. The innkeeper broke down immediately, apologizing for letting the Hobbits continue on with Strider, not realizing that Gandalf had hoped this would happen. Overjoyed at the knowledge that the Hobbits were not captured and were now with Aragorn, Gandalf rested a night at the Prancing Pony. That night, five Black Riders stormed right through Bree, heading east. He surmises that the Black Riders had made a tactical error in splitting their forces to attack Hobbiton and Buckland, leaving the way open to the east for a short time, accidentally letting the Hobbits and Strider through.

Gandalf rode after the Nazgûl in the morning, and intercepted them at Weathertop. The Nazgûl waited for nightfall, and finally attacked. The battle raged through the night, and at sunrise Gandalf escaped to the north, drawing four of the riders away for a while, though they eventually gave up and turned back. Unable to do anything more to help, Gandalf navigated his way across country to Rivendell, and eventually released Shadowfax partway there. He says that he had become good friends with the horse, and that Shadowfax would return to his aid, if he ever called. He finally reached Rivendell only three days before Frodo.

Now that all storied have finally been told, Elrond expresses his dismay at the fall of Saruman, who had been their trusted counsel. However he also expresses great marvel at the resilience of the Hobbits during their journey, and has found Frodo's story most interesting. In particular, he notes that he had forgotten all about [[Tom Bombadil]], whom he calls Iarwain Ben-adar, "oldest and fatherless". He laments not having invited Bombadil to the council, but Gandalf says he would not have come.

Erestor asks whether it would not be wise to give the Ring to Bombadil, on whom it has no effect. Gandalf explains that while Bombadil might agree, he would not understand the importance of the task, and might even lose the Ring eventually. In any case, Gandalf asserts that even Bombadil in his own little realm could not stand up to the full power of Sauron. Glorfindel adds that taking the Ring to Bombadil in secret would also be impossible now.

Galdor agrees with this assessment, claiming that any hope remaining is now here at Rivendell, or at the Grey Havens, or in Lothlórien. Elrond responds that neither he nor those other Elven lands have the power to endure the coming storm. Glorfindel concludes that there are only two options remaining: Send the Ring west over the sea, or destroy it. Elrond counters both options: For one, the Ring cannot be destroyed by any means they possess; and the people of Valinor would not accept the Ring into their care, as it is an evil belonging to Middle-Earth, and thus a problem that the people of Middle-Earth must solve for themselves.

Glorfindel then suggests throwing the Ring into the sea, subverting and fulfilling the lie that Saruman had told them about it. Gandalf counters this by saying that vile creatures in the deep might find and retrieve it, or that the seas might one day shift and bring it back to the surface. He is adamant that a permanent end to the problem must be found. Galdor again agrees, adding that it would be extremely difficult to get the Ring to the sea anyway, with the Enemy still watching the roads there. He asserts that the Nazgûl would soon return with faster riding beasts, and would be expecting the Ring to travel west. He doubts the ability of Gondor to keep the forces of Sauron at bay much longer, and they would eventually break through and come straight for the Grey Havens. Boromir defends his people, saying they still have the strength to fight, but Galdor notes that the Black Riders might bypass Gondor altogether.

Erestor concludes that Glorfindels earlier assessment was correct: Either they hide the Ring, or find a way to destroy it. Elrond finally speaks, agreeing that the roads to the west are predictable and must be shunned. Therefore, they must go east, to Mordor, to destroy the Ring where it was made.

Boromir interjects, offering a third options: to use the Ring as a weapon, just as Saruman had planned to do for his own ends. Elrond states that the Ring cannot be used, as it is wholly evil and obeys only the Dark Lord who made it. He brings up Saruman's corruption as an example of a once-benevolent and powerful figure consumed by desire for the Ring. He says that even Sauron was not evil in the beginning, and that if any of the Wise were to take the Ring for themselves, they would simply replace him and become evil rulers themselves. He refuses to take the Ring, even to hide it, and so does Gandalf.

Boromir is dismayed, but expresses some hope that the Sword that was Broken might still come to Gondor's aid, if Aragorn proves to be made of the same mettle as his ancestors. He also hopes that others will fight as valiantly as his people do, and Elrond reassures him that they will.

Glóin suggests pooling together the efforts of their disparate kingdoms. In particular, he suggests using the other Rings of Power to aid them in the coming conflict. He notes that one Dwarf-ring - [[Ring of Thrór|Thrór's ring]] - might still be found in Moria, and that perhaps Balin has already found it there. Gandalf reports that this is impossible, as that ring was taken by Saruman from [[Thrór]]'s heir [[Thráin]] during his torture at Dol Guldur. Glóin asks about the Elven-rings, but Elrond dismisses the question offhand. He says that the Three Rings were made without Sauron's involvement, and would serve no purpose as weapons. He adds that if Sauron was ever to regain the One Ring, anything that was gained by the Three would be subverted and ruined anyway. He remarks that this was Sauron's plan all along, and laments that the Three Rings had been created in the first place.

Glóin asks what would happen, then, if the One Ring was destroyed. Elrond responds that no one knows, but hopes that the Three would become free in that case, though they might lose all their power instead. Glorfindel remarks that the Elves are willing to take that risk, if it means ridding Middle-Earth of the threat of Sauron.

The conversation returns to the matter of destroying the Ring. Erestor comments that there is little chance of reaching the Fire where the Ring could be destroyed, calling the idea a "folly". Gandalf retorts that this might actually be an advantage: Sauron understands only the desire for power, and expects anyone who comes across the Ring to use it; he cannot understand a desire to destroy it. As such, the attempt to destroy it might catch him off-guard, at least for a while. Elrond agrees with this assessment, adding:

{{quote|This quest may be attempted by the weak with as much hope as the strong. Yet such is oft the course of deeds that move the wheels of the world: small hands do them because they must, while the eyes of the great are elsewhere.|[[Elrond]]}}

At this, Bilbo stands up, saying that he's received the hint, and volunteers to take the Ring to Mordor himself. He laments only that he might not get the chance to write the ending to his book, which would now have to be amended because he might not "live happily ever after to the end of his days". Boromir is amused by this, but quickly realizes that all others present regard Bilbo's offer with great respect. Gandalf thanks Bilbo for his bravery, but says that Bilbo's part in the story had already ended when he passed on the Ring, except to record the events in a sequel book when the chosen questers eventually come back.

Bilbo asks who those questers will be, then. Silence falls on the council as they ponder the question with heavy hearts. Frodo slowly comes to the realization that the course of events he had dreaded is now inevitable. With great difficulty, he finally speaks:

{{quote|I will take the Ring, though I do not know the way.|[[Frodo Baggins]]}}

Realizing the implications, Elrond tells Frodo that the task may have been appointed for him, and that he might be the only one who might be able to find the way. He ponders this unlikely turn of events, which none of the Wise had foreseen. He tells Frodo that the decision must be his alone, voluntarily, but that if he chose to go he would be counted among the greatest Elf-friends who ever lived, among the likes of [[Hador]], [[Húrin]], [[Túrin]] and [[Beren]].

Suddenly, Sam leaps up from his hiding place, protesting that Frodo must not be sent on this quest alone.

{{quote|No indeed! You at least shall go with him. It is hardly possible to separate you from him, even when he is summoned to a secret council and you are not.|[[Elrond]]}}

At this, Sam sinks to the floor in embarrassment, realizing the pickle he and Frodo have landed themselves in.

==Composition==
Early drafts of the chapter probably were completed near the end of [[1939]]); in that version, the original Fellowship consisted of Gandalf, Boromir, and five Hobbits including "[[Trotter|Peregrin Boffin]]".<ref>{{CG|CG}}, p. xxii</ref>

Later drafts of the chapter were reworked around [[1940]]-[[1941]], with at least three new versions. New material included Aragorn as the [[Heir of Elendil]] and related additions; but since narration was too long,background information was removed to the [[Appendices]] and to another text called ''[[Of the Rings of Power and the Third Age]]''.<ref>{{CG|CG}}, p. xxiii</ref>
{{references}}
[[Category:The Fellowship of the Ring chapters|Council of Elrond]]
[[fi:Elrondin neuvonpito (TSH)]]

The Council of Elrond

2023-09-16T04:12:40Z

Headrock: Tense correction. By the way, I can't seem to post anything to Discussion. Error #403 on saving.

{{disambig-more|The Council of Elrond|[[The Council of Elrond (disambiguation)]]}}
{{chapter
| image=Peter Xavier Price - The Lord of Rivendell.jpg
| title=The Council of Elrond
| book=The Fellowship of the Ring
| number=14
| event=The [[Council of Elrond]] is held; [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] volunteers to take the [[The One Ring|

Ring]] to [[Mordor]].
| date=[[25 October]] {{TA|3018|n}}
| location=[[Rivendell]]
| perspective=[[Frodo Baggins]]
| previous=Many Meetings
| next=The Ring Goes South
}}

'''The Council of Elrond''' is the second chapter of the second book in ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.

In this chapter, the visitors to [[Rivendell]] assemble to discuss the matter of the [[One Ring]]. Each, in turn, tells news of their lands, recent events, and the reasons that had brought them to Rivendell. Finally [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] reveals the One Ring and its accompanying doom. [[Gandalf]] describes the capture of [[Gollum]], and his own imprisonment at [[Orthanc]]. A decision is made to take the One Ring to [[Mordor]], where it must be destroyed. Frodo volunteers to carry the Ring there, and when [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]] objects to him going alone, he is drafted to accompany Frodo on his task.

==Summary==

The next morning, [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] and [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]] take a walk in [[Rivendell]] and run into [[Gandalf]] and [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]]. Frodo wants to explore the wilderness around the town, but Gandalf says it will have to wait until after the [[Council of Elrond|great council]], which is about to commence. At that moment, a bell rings out to summon all to the meeting. Sam follows the others even though he was not invited.

The council takes place on the same porch where Frodo had reunited with [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] and [[Peregrin Took|Pippin]] the previous evening. Among the many attendants, Frodo spots [[Elrond]], [[Glorfindel]] and [[Glóin]], as well as [[Strider]] wearing his worn travel clothes again. Gandalf introduces Frodo to the attendants:

{{quote|Here, my friends, is the hobbit, Frodo son of Drogo. Few have ever come hither though greater peril or on an errand more urgent.|[[Gandalf]]}}

Gandalf points out several important figures to Frodo: Glóin's son, [[Gimli]]; [[Erestor]], Elrond's chief counselor; [[Galdor]], a messenger from [[Cirdan the Shipwright]] of the [[Grey Havens]]; and [[Legolas]], son of [[Thranduil]], King of the Elves of [[Mirkwood]]. Frodo also notes a [[Men|Man]] sitting apart from the others, wearing rich but travel-worn clothes, and holding a [[Great Horn|great horn]]. Gandalf says the man's name is [[Boromir]], and that he had arrived that morning from the south, seeking counsel.

Many tales are told about the goings-on in the greater world to the south and east. Frodo had already heard some of this information before, but pays close attention when Glóin begins to speak. Glóin explains that the [[Dwarves]] of [[Erebor]] had grown disquiet, and some decided to attempt to reconquer [[Moria]] under the [[Misty Mountains]].

{{quote|Moria! Moria! Wonder of the Northern world! Too deep we delved there, and woke the nameless fear. Long have its vast mansions lain empty since the children of Durin fled. But now we spoke of it again with longing, and yet with dread; for no dwarf has dared to pass the doors of Khazad-dûm for many lives of kings, save Thrór only, and he perished.|[[Glóin]]}}

Glóin explains that thirty years prior, against King [[Dáin]]'s wishes, [[Balin]] took [[Ori]] and [[Óin]] together with a multitude of other Dwarves on a quest to retake the city. While news at first indicated that they had been successful and prosperous, the messages soon ceased.

According to Glóin, one year ago a messenger from [[Mordor]] arrived at Erebor. The messenger wanted to forge a friendship between [[Sauron]] and the Dwarves. He began asking questions about creatures called [[Hobbits]] - what they were and where they lived - and indicated that Sauron knows that the Dwarves have met one.

{{quote|As a small token only of your friendship Sauron asks this: that you should find this thief, and get from him, willing or no, a little ring, the least of rings, that once he stole. It is but a trifle that Sauron fancies, and an earnest of your good will.|[[Sauron]]'s messenger to [[Erebor]]}}

In return for this information, the messenger promised Dáin three of the lost [[Seven Dwarf-rings|Dwarf-rings]], as well as a guarantee that Moria shall belong to the Dwarves forever. Dáin became very suspicious of this, and refused to give an answer immediately. The messenger gave a veiled threat and rode away. That messenger visited twice more and received the same answer, and then promised to come one final time before the end of the year. The Dwarves have since learned that similar messengers had also been sent to King [[Brand]] of [[Dale]].

The Dwarves and Men of the North now fear that Mordor is about to attack them. Dáin has sent Glóin to Rivendell to warn Bilbo that the Enemy might come for him, and to ask for Elrond's counsel on this matter. Elrond commends Dáin on his decision, but says that the Dwarves have no choice but to resist, with or without hope. He reassures them that they are not alone: the trouble belongs to all of the western world.

Elrond begins to explain the ancient history of [[The One Ring]] in full. First, he tells of how the [[Rings of Power]] were forged during the [[Second Age]] - a tale which we are told was only known in full to few of the listeners. According to Elrond, the Elves of [[Eregion]] and Dwarves of Moria were once friends; but the Elves' eagerness for knowledge made them susceptible to Sauron's charms, who at the time did not appear in his evil form. The Dark Lord learned their arts and crafted the One Ring in secret at [[Orodruin]] to control the others. Only [[Celebrimbor]] suspected him, and hid the [[Three Rings]] that he had created without Sauron's aid. A war ensued, during which the land of Eregion was destroyed and the gate of Moria was shut.

Throughout the rest of the morning, Elrond continues the story of the One Ring during the Second Age. He speaks of the fall of [[Númenor]] and the arrival of [[Men of the West]] in [[Middle-earth]]. He tells of [[Elendil]] and his sons, [[Isildur]] and [[Anárion]], who founded the northern kingdom of [[Arnor]] and southern kingdom of [[Gondor]]. Sauron assaulted their kingdoms, and the [[Last Alliance]] was forged between Elendil and [[Gil-Galad]] to defeat him.

Elrond says he remembers those days clearly. Frodo asks how this is possible, as it happened so long ago. Elrond briefly explains his lineage - descending from [[Eärendil]] and [[Elwing]] - saying that he has lived through all Three Ages of the world.

He goes on to describe the [[Battle of Dagorlad]], at which he was present: the armies of the Last Alliance stood before the [[Black Gate]] of Mordor, and could not be stopped by the evil forces. He tells of the [[Siege of Barad-dûr]] that followed, where Gil-Galad and Elendil were killed. Isildur picked up his father's broken sword, [[Narsil]], and with it cut the Ring from Sauron's hand, destroying the Dark Lord and taking the Ring for himself.

At this, Boromir suddenly interjects, surprised to hear that Isildur took the Ring; the story had been forgotten to his people, who thought that the Ring had been destroyed that day. Elrond says that he witnessed the event personally: together with Cirdan he tried to convince Isildur to destroy the Ring, then and there; however Isildur refused, claiming the Ring as compensation for his father's and brother's deaths. Elrond then speaks of Isildur's ambush by [[Orcs]] at the [[Gladden Fields]], where he lost the Ring. He notes that Isildur's squire, [[Ohtar]], survived the ambush and brought the broken shards of Narsil back to Rivendell, where Isildur's heir [[Valandil]] lived under supervision, as he was only a child at the time.

Elrond concludes the story, saying that because the Ring was not destroyed, Sauron was not wholly destroyed either. He explains that Elves and Men have grown estranged since, and that the race of Númenor has decayed: now men live shorter lives, and the Elves are decreasing in numbers. The city of [[Annúminas]] fell into ruin, and the heirs of Valandil moved to [[Fornost]], which was eventually destroyed by the forces of [[Angmar]].

Elrond now describes the annals of the realm of Gondor to the south, which still endures. Its capital once resided in [[Osgiliath]], astride both sides of the [[Anduin|Great River]]. The Men of Gondor built [[Minas Ithil]], a tower on the western slopes of the [[Ephel Dúath|Mountains of Shadow]], to guard against the evil creatures of Mordor. They then built the corresponding tower of [[Minas Anor]] on the eastern end of the [[White Mountains]]. At the top of Minas Anor was planted a [[White Tree of Gondor|white tree]], descended from a tree that once grew in the [[Valinor|Uttermost West]] in the early days of the world. Eventually, the line of kings [[Anárion]] and [[Meneldil]] failed, Númenorean blood mingled with that of "lesser men", and the tree withered. The men of Gondor failed in their vigil against Mordor, resulting in foul creatures conquering Minas Ithil (now renamed [[Minas Morgul]], the Tower of Sorcery). Minas Anor was renamed [[Minas Tirith]] (the Tower of Guard), Osgiliath was evacuated of its population, and Gondor and Mordor have been at war with each other ever since.

As Elrond finishes speaking, Boromir rises and reveals that Gondor is his homeland. He proceeds to inform the others of its current state. He claims that the blood of Númenor has not yet been spent, and that only by the valor of his countrymen in their constant battle against Morgul are the lands beyond Gondor kept safe and peaceful. He warns that Gondor's day of defeat may not be far off, as evil has awoken in Mordor once more. In June earlier this year, the Forces of Mordor invaded and conquered [[Ithilien]] - Gondor's land to the east of the Anduin. Boromir claims that Mordor is now allied with the [[Easterlings]] and [[Haradrim]], and that there is some great power strengthening their armies - a great black horseman whose mere presence inflicts fear on the bravest of men. The Gondorians have since scuttled the bridge connecting both sides of Osgiliath, cutting themselves off from Ithilien but also preventing the enemy from crossing the Anduin there. Boromir and his brother were present at the battle, and made it back across the river with only two soldiers remaining. Boromir fears that Gondor has no other ally now, except Rohan to its west.

Boromir now explains his arrival at Rivendell, saying that he has come to seek Elrond's counsel regarding a dream that he and his brother have experienced. In this dream, shadows and thunder came from the east, but in the west was still a pale light; then he heard a voice crying from the west:

{{quote|Seek for the Sword that was broken;
   In Imladris it dwells;
There shall be counsels taken
   Stronger than Morgul-spells.
There shall be shown a token
   That Doom is near at hand,
For Isildur's Bane shall waken
   And the Halfling forth shall stand.|[[Boromir]]'s Dream}}

Boromir and his brother went to their father, [[Denethor]], Lord of Minas Tirith, and consulted with him about this dream. Denethor recognized the name "Imladris" as the home of Elrond, far away to the north. Boromir's brother volunteered to go seek it, but Boromir realized the dangerous nature of the journey and took the quest upon himself instead, despite his father's objections.

At this, Aragorn stands up and places his broken sword on the table, identifying it as the sword mentioned in Boromir's dream. Elrond introduces Aragorn to Boromir and the others as a direct descendant of Isildur himself. Frodo immediately exclaims that the Ring should be given to Aragorn, but Aragorn rejects ownership of it. Elrond instead bids Frodo hold up the Ring for all to see.

Fighting a strong reluctance to reveal the Ring, Frodo eventually does so. Elrond introduces the Ring to the others as "Isildur's Bane" - Sauron's Ruling Ring. Boromir is immediately dismayed, believing that it signals doom for his homeland. Aragorn asks Boromir whether he wishes for the House of Elendil to return to Gondor. Boromir doesn't give a clear answer; he seems desperate, but doubtful.

{{Quote|I was not sent to beg any boon, but to seek only the meaning of a riddle. Yet we are hard pressed, and the Sword of Elendil would be a help beyond our hope - if such a thing could indeed return out of the shadows of the past.|[[Boromir]]}}

Bilbo leaps up and recites the [[Riddle of Strider]] aloud, which concludes with the line "The crownless again shall be king." As he sits back down, he reveals to Frodo that it was he who had written that song after first meeting Aragorn.

Aragorn explains a little of his own background to Boromir, saying that Narsil has been passed down diligently from Valandil to each of his successive heirs, ending up with Aragorn. He forgives Boromir for doubting him, admitting that he seems nothing like Isildur or the kings of old, but claims to have made many journeys and fought many servants of the Enemy; just like Gondor in the South, the Dúnedain have been protecting the lands in the north. He tells Boromir that the Dúnedain's job has been even more thankless than Gondor's, as they are given scornful names by the very people they protect, and their work must always be kept secret from the simple folk.

Aragorn concludes by announcing that he will come to Minas Tirith to aid in the coming battle. Boromir expresses doubts about the Ring's identity, asking many questions about it and the story of its recovery. Bilbo asks to adjourn for refreshments before that story is told, but Elrond asks him to tell his story first. Before Bilbo begins his tale, he apologizes if any of those present (particularly Glóin) have heard him tell it differently before; he was simply hoping to keep the Ring for himself and avoid being called a "thief".

Bilbo recounts his encounter with Gollum in full, and is cut short by Elrond before he can describe his entire journey to Erebor. Elrond then asks Frodo to recount his own experience with the Ring since the day he received it. The other council-members ask many questions as he does so, until all details are recounted and considered. Bilbo remarks to Frodo that they should some day discuss the story in private so that Bilbo could write it down in a book.

Frodo is curious about Gandalf's absence during his journey from [[The Shire]] to Rivendell. Galdor joins Frodo in this inquiry, also asking to know why the [[Wise]] are so sure about the Ring's identity, given the long span of time that had passed between its loss and supposed reappearance. He asks about [[Saruman]]'s absence from the present council, wondering about the White Wizard's opinion on the matter at hand. Elrond calls on Gandalf as the last speaker, to answer these questions.

Gandalf first points out that there is only one ring left that Sauron might still be looking for, given that all of the others are either destroyed, in safe keeping, or in the hands of the [[Nazgûl]]. He also points out that Bilbo found his ring in the same year that Sauron (posing as the "Necromancer") was defeated at his fortress in [[Dol Guldur]] - a suspicious coincidence. Gandalf then reveals that Saruman had rejected the idea that the Ring would ever be found again - claiming it had rolled into the sea by now - and attempted to dissuade the other members of the [[White Council]] from taking any open actions against Sauron. This, Gandalf says, gave Sauron the chance to anticipate their actions and withdraw safely from Dol Guldur to Mordor, where he had already been at work building his strength. Saruman claimed that Sauron's belief that the Ring could still be found was an advantage for the White Council, as Sauron would waste effort trying to find it.

Lulled into inaction by Saruman's words, Gandalf set aside his worries about Bilbo's newfound ring; but doubt kept growing in him. Expecting Gollum to come out of his cave to seek the Ring, Gandalf did spot the creature; but when Gollum evaded him he decided to let the matter go, and did not discuss it with anyone for fear of stirring up needless trouble. However when various spies began congregating around The Shire after Bilbo's birthday party, Gandalf consulted Aragorn, who convinced him to act on his suspicions and go hunting for Gollum together.

Gandalf and Aragorn found traces of Gollum near Mordor, but could not find the creature himself. Then Gandalf was reminded of Saruman's description of the One Ring:

{{quote|The Nine, the Seven, and the Three had each their proper gem. Not so the One. It was round and unadorned, as it were one of the lesser rings; but its maker set marks upon it that the skilled, maybe, could still see and read.|[[Saruman]]'s description of the [[One Ring]], according to [[Gandalf]]}}

Not knowing what those marks might be, Gandalf figured that the only way this information could've reached Saruman was through some account by Isildur - the only person other than Sauron ever known to have definitely held the One Ring. Gandalf therefore set out to Gondor, to study their scrolls and archives. Denethor received him coldly, but allowed him to study the texts nevertheless.

Gandalf reveals that he had found a scroll written by Isildur himself after acquiring the Ring. Boromir confirms that it is common knowledge in Gondor that Isildur returned to Minas Tirith first, and lived with Meneldil for a while before setting off north - at which time he could have written such an account. Gandalf recites from the scroll, where Isildur specifically stated that he was taking the Ring to the northern kingdom and wanted to leave an account of it in Gondor, so that future generations would not forget.

According to the [[Scroll of Isildur]], the Ring had at first scorched Isildur's hand, but quickly cooled and shrank. Before it did, Isildur noted words inscribed into the Ring, which slowly faded over time. He could not read the inscription, which was written in the dark tongue of Mordor using Elvish script, but managed to copy it down before it disappeared. He surmised, correctly, that the script might re-appear if the Ring was ever reintroduced to a source of heat resembling Sauron's burning hand; but Isildur could not bring himself to do so, as the Ring was too valuable to him as an heirloom.

Upon learning this, Gandalf immediately left Minas Tirith heading north. On his way, he received messages from [[Lothlórien]] that Aragorn had managed to capture Gollum. This prompts Aragorn to tell his account of the hunt for Gollum. He had made it to the Black Gate and the [[Morgul Vale]], but could not find Gollum. He despaired and turned homewards, but then found the creature's tracks by chance and followed it into the [[Dead Marshes]], where he finally caught Gollum peering into the water. Gollum bit Aragorn, but would tell him nothing. Gollum was then bound and gagged, and made to walk all the way back to Mirkwood, where he was handed off to the Wood Elves for imprisonment. Gandalf soon arrived, and interrogated the creature at length.

Gandalf confirms that Gollums's story matches the one told by Bilbo just moments earlier. Furthermore, Gollum's interrogation revealed that he had found the ring in the Great River, and had kept it for hundreds of years - far longer than the lifespan of his race. Gandalf notes that only the Great Rings have the power to extend life to such magnitude. Gandalf hopes that this information would put Galdor's doubts to rest regarding the identity of the Ring. Nevertheless, he recounts the text that Isildur had copied down from the ring, and announces that he had performed the test of fire upon it and confirmed the appearance of the same words. Gandalf then recites the part of the [[Ring Verse]] that appeared, causing a shadow to briefly pass over Rivendell and forcing some of the Elves to stop their ears.

Finally, Gandalf reveals that Gollum had made it to Mordor, was captured and tortured there, and revealed all that he knew to Sauron. He surmises that Sauron has already figured out that the Ring is now in Rivendell.
Boromir asks what punishment was inflicted on Gollum. Gandalf says that Gollum had already suffered enough on account of the Ring and the torture in Mordor, and so was left as a prisoner in Mirkwood. He notes that Gollum was capable of much greater feats than his emaciated form might suggest on account of his burning desire for the Ring, and suspects that Gollum was released from Mordor's clutches in order to perform some unknown, nefarious task.

Legolas now joins the conversation for the first time, with alarming news: He was sent to Rivendell from Mirkwood to report that Gollum had escaped their prison. He says that, having learned of Gollum's sad story and heeded Gandalf's hopes that he might still be cured of his condition, the Elves took pity on the creature and moved him out of the dungeons. Glóin grumbles that he and [[Thorin and Company|Thorin's Company]] did not receive such tender mercy during their stay in the Elves' dungeon, forcing Gandalf to interject in order to prevent a quarrel about past grievances.

Legolas continues, describing Gollum's escape. He was taken out for a walk in the forest, and allowed to climb a tall tree he was fond of; however that day he refused to come down for many hours. The Elves stood guard at the bottom of the tree, but at night were suddenly attacked by a large group of Orcs from the mountains. When the Orcs were finally driven off, Gollum's guards were found slain, and he was gone. The Elves surmised that Gollum was somehow aware that the attack was going to occur that day, perhaps through one of Sauron's spies.

According to Legolas, the Elves began searching for Gollum immediately, and found his tracks among those of a large group of Orcs. Unfortunately, the tracks soon disappeared in the vicinity of Dol Guldur, and the Elves were reluctant to keep searching in that direction. He explains that Mirkwood has once again become full of the evil creatures that had previously been driven out after the [[Attack on Dol Guldur]]. Gandalf expresses frustration, but says that Gollum will now play whatever part was destined to him - hopefully one that Sauron has not foreseen.

Finally, Gandalf comes to the story of his own disappearance. In June he had left [[Hobbiton]] for the southern edge of The Shire, where he received news of Mordor's invasion of Ithilien. Hurrying east to [[Bree]], he ran into [[Radagast the Brown]], a fellow [[Wizard]], who had been seeking him. Radagast reported to Gandalf that Nazgûl had been sighted crossing the Great River in secret, on their way westwards, disguised as riders in black. According to Radagast, the Nazgûl had been asking anyone they came across about a land called "Shire". Radagast adds that Saruman had sent him on this errand, offering to help if Gandalf wished it. Gandalf hoped that Saruman, who was wise in the ways of the Enemy, had found some weapon to help drive the Nazgûl away. Before Radagast could ride off, Gandalf asked him to have beasts and birds collect information and deliver it directly to [[Orthanc]].

Gandalf stayed that night in Bree, where he decided to ride to [[Isengard]] instead of back to the Shire. He wrote a message to Frodo and left it with his friend [[Barliman Butterbur]] at the [[Prancing Pony]]. He then rode south along the [[Misty Mountains]] to the [[Gap of Rohan]]. Gandalf continues to describe Isengard as a circle of sheer rock enclosing a valley at the southern edge of the Misty Mountains, with a lone tower at its center. As he rode through the heavily-defended gate in the rocky wall, he felt an unexplained trepidation. Reaching the tower, he was greeted by Saruman and let inside. He notes that Saruman was wearing a ring on his finger.

Gandalf asked Saruman for aid, but received only condescention in return. Saruman facetiously wondered what brought Gandalf out of The Shire, indicating that he knew Gandalf was keeping some very important secret from him. When Gandalf reported what he had heard from Radagast, Saruman insulted Radagast and revealed that he was only sent to lure Gandalf to Orthanc. Gandalf then noticed that Saruman was wearing a robe of many colors.

Saruman offered Gandalf a choice. Claiming that the time of the Elves was over, and that the time of Men was beginning, Saruman suggested that the Wizards should be the ones to rule in this new age. For this, he said, they needed to align themselves with the rising power of Middle Earth.

{{quote|A new Power is rising. Against it the old allies and policies will not avail us at all. There is no hope left in Elves or dying Númenor. This then is one choice before you, before us. We may join with that Power. It would be wise, Gandalf. There is hope that way. Its victory is at hand; and there will be rich reward for those that aided it.|[[Saruman]]}}

Saruman then revealed that he had already figured out that Gandalf had been protecting the One Ring in The Shire. He pressed Gandalf to reveal its whereabouts. Gandalf refused to reveal anything, realizing that Saruman and Sauron were now simply two sides of the same coin.

Gandalf was taken to the Pinnacle of Orthanc, where he saw that the once-green valley of Isengard was now filled with pits and forges. Saruman has been mustering an army of Orcs and Wolves, which Gandalf surmised would be used in rivalry to Sauron rather than at his service. He could not escape the tower, and was forced to spend his days in the cold and the smoke billowing from below. Frodo exclaims that he had seen this event in one of his dreams during his journey.

Gandalf's salvation came thanks to the uncorruptible Radagast, who had fortunately merely played the part of an unwitting pawn in Saruman's plans. Radagast did as Gandalf asked, riding east to seek allies. Eventually, he found the [[Great Eagles]], who began to scout the lands around the Misty Mountains and learned of the coming of the Nazgûl and of Gollum's escape from Mirkwood. [[Gwaihir]], fastest of the Great Eagles, came to Isengard to deliver this news, only to find Gandalf at the top of the tower and bear him away from there before Saruman could intervene.

Gwaihir could not take Gandalf very far, so Gandalf decided to be taken to nearby [[Rohan]] where he could acquire a fast horse for the journey back north. Gwaihir assured him that while Rohan had been sending horses as tribute to [[Mordor]], they had not yet allied with the Dark Lord. At [[Edoras]], Gandalf discovered that Saruman's lies had already taken hold, and he was received very coldly. The king ordered him to take a horse and be gone, so Gandalf chose the best steed in the land and rode off.

Aragorn laments this state of affairs in the land of Rohan, but Boromir stands up in their defense, claiming that the [[Rohirrim]] are honorable men and would never give away their beloved horses as tribute. Gandalf agrees, adding that the horse he had chosen is indeed one of their most precious horses: [[Shadowfax]], born in the early days of the world; a horse too fast even for Nazgûl horses to catch, never before ridden by any man. He says that Shadowfax bore him from Rohan all the way to The Shire in the time it took Frodo to reach the [[Barrow-downs]]. Nevertheless, Gandalf could not catch up with the Nazgûl, who were already well ahead of him.

Gandalf reached Hobbiton and had words with [[Gaffer Gamgee]], discovering that Frodo had already left less than a week earlier, and that Black Riders had come looking for him the same night. Gandalf rode on to [[Buckland]] and found it in uproar after the Nazgûl attack on [[Crickhollow]]. At the house, he found Frodo's cape (left there by [[Fatty Bolger]]) and thought the worst had happened. He tracked two Nazgûl to Bree, where he met with Barliman Butterbur. The innkeeper broke down immediately, apologizing for letting the Hobbits continue on with Strider, not realizing that Gandalf had hoped this would happen. Overjoyed at the knowledge that the Hobbits were not captured and were now with Aragorn, Gandalf rested a night at the Prancing Pony. That night, five Black Riders stormed right through Bree, heading east. He surmises that the Black Riders had made a tactical error in splitting their forces to attack Hobbiton and Buckland, leaving the way open to the east for a short time, accidentally letting the Hobbits and Strider through.

Gandalf rode after the Nazgûl in the morning, and intercepted them at Weathertop. The Nazgûl waited for nightfall, and finally attacked. The battle raged through the night, and at sunrise Gandalf escaped to the north, drawing four of the riders away for a while, though they eventually gave up and turned back. Unable to do anything more to help, Gandalf navigated his way across country to Rivendell, and eventually released Shadowfax partway there. He says that he had become good friends with the horse, and that Shadowfax would return to his aid, if he ever called. He finally reached Rivendell only three days before Frodo.

Now that all storied have finally been told, Elrond expresses his dismay at the fall of Saruman, who had been their trusted counsel. However he also expresses great marvel at the resilience of the Hobbits during their journey, and has found Frodo's story most interesting. In particular, he notes that he had forgotten all about [[Tom Bombadil]], whom he calls Iarwain Ben-adar, "oldest and fatherless". He laments not having invited Bombadil to the council, but Gandalf says he would not have come.

Erestor asks whether it would not be wise to give the Ring to Bombadil, on whom it has no effect. Gandalf explains that while Bombadil might agree, he would not understand the importance of the task, and might even lose the Ring eventually. In any case, Gandalf asserts that even Bombadil in his own little realm could not stand up to the full power of Sauron. Glorfindel adds that taking the Ring to Bombadil in secret would also be impossible now.

Galdor agrees with this assessment, claiming that any hope remaining is now here at Rivendell, or at the Grey Havens, or in Lothlórien. Elrond responds that neither he nor those other Elven lands have the power to endure the coming storm. Glorfindel concludes that there are only two options remaining: Send the Ring west over the sea, or destroy it. Elrond counters both options: For one, the Ring cannot be destroyed by any means they possess; and the people of Valinor would not accept the Ring into their care, as it is an evil belonging to Middle-Earth, and thus a problem that the people of Middle-Earth must solve for themselves.

Glorfindel then suggests throwing the Ring into the sea, subverting and fulfilling the lie that Saruman had told them about it. Gandalf counters this by saying that vile creatures in the deep might find and retrieve it, or that the seas might one day shift and bring it back to the surface. He is adamant that a permanent end to the problem must be found. Galdor again agrees, adding that it would be extremely difficult to get the Ring to the sea anyway, with the Enemy still watching the roads there. He asserts that the Nazgûl would soon return with faster riding beasts, and would be expecting the Ring to travel west. He doubts the ability of Gondor to keep the forces of Sauron at bay much longer, and they would eventually break through and come straight for the Grey Havens. Boromir defends his people, saying they still have the strength to fight, but Galdor notes that the Black Riders might bypass Gondor altogether.

Erestor concludes that Glorfindels earlier assessment was correct: Either they hide the Ring, or find a way to destroy it. Elrond finally speaks, agreeing that the roads to the west are predictable and must be shunned. Therefore, they must go east, to Mordor, to destroy the Ring where it was made.

Boromir interjects, offering a third options: to use the Ring as a weapon, just as Saruman had planned to do for his own ends. Elrond states that the Ring cannot be used, as it is wholly evil and obeys only the Dark Lord who made it. He brings up Saruman's corruption as an example of a once-benevolent and powerful figure consumed by desire for the Ring. He says that even Sauron was not evil in the beginning, and that if any of the Wise were to take the Ring for themselves, they would simply replace him and become evil rulers themselves. He refuses to take the Ring, even to hide it, and so does Gandalf.

Boromir is dismayed, but expresses some hope that the Sword that was Broken might still come to Gondor's aid, if Aragorn proves to be made of the same mettle as his ancestors. He also hopes that others will fight as valiantly as his people do, and Elrond reassures him that they will.

Glóin suggests pooling together the efforts of their disparate kingdoms. In particular, he suggests using the other Rings of Power to aid them in the coming conflict. He notes that one Dwarf-ring - [[Ring of Thrór|Thrór's ring]] - might still be found in Moria, and that perhaps Balin has already found it there. Gandalf reports that this is impossible, as that ring was taken by Saruman from [[Thrór]]'s heir [[Thráin]] during his torture at Dol Guldur. Glóin asks about the Elven-rings, but Elrond dismisses the question offhand. He says that the Three Rings were made without Sauron's involvement, and would serve no purpose as weapons. He adds that if Sauron was ever to regain the One Ring, anything that was gained by the Three would be subverted and ruined anyway. He remarks that this was Sauron's plan all along, and laments that the Three Rings had been created in the first place.

Glóin asks what would happen, then, if the One Ring was destroyed. Elrond responds that no one knows, but hopes that the Three would become free in that case, though they might lose all their power instead. Glorfindel remarks that the Elves are willing to take that risk, if it means ridding Middle-Earth of the threat of Sauron.

The conversation returns to the matter of destroying the Ring. Erestor comments that there is little chance of reaching the Fire where the Ring could be destroyed, calling the idea a "folly". Gandalf retorts that this might actually be an advantage: Sauron understands only the desire for power, and expects anyone who comes across the Ring to use it; he cannot understand a desire to destroy it. As such, the attempt to destroy it might catch him off-guard, at least for a while. Elrond agrees with this assessment, adding:

{{quote|This quest may be attempted by the weak with as much hope as the strong. Yet such is oft the course of deeds that move the wheels of the world: small hands do them because they must, while the eyes of the great are elsewhere.|[[Elrond]]}}

At this, Bilbo stands up, saying that he's received the hint, and volunteers to take the Ring to Mordor himself. He laments only that he might not get the chance to write the ending to his book, which would now have to be amended because he might not "live happily ever after to the end of his days". Boromir is amused by this, but quickly realizes that all others present regard Bilbo's offer with great respect. Gandalf thanks Bilbo for his bravery, but says that Bilbo's part in the story had already ended when he passed on the Ring, except to record the events in a sequel book when the chosen questers eventually come back.

Bilbo asks who those questers will be, then. Silence falls on the council as they ponder the question with heavy hearts. Frodo slowly comes to the realization that the course of events he had dreaded is now inevitable. With great difficulty, he finally speaks:

{{quote|I will take the Ring, though I do not know the way.|[[Frodo Baggins]]}}

Realizing the implications, Elrond tells Frodo that the task may have been appointed for him, and that he might be the only one who might be able to find the way. He ponders this unlikely turn of events, which none of the Wise had foreseen. He tells Frodo that the decision must be his alone, voluntarily, but that if he chose to go he would be counted among the greatest Elf-friends who ever lived, among the likes of [[Hador]], [[Húrin]], [[Túrin]] and [[Beren]].

Suddenly, Sam leaps up from his hiding place, protesting that Frodo must not be sent on this quest alone.

{{quote|No indeed! You at least shall go with him. It is hardly possible to separate you from him, even when he is summoned to a secret council and you are not.|[[Elrond]]}}

At this, Sam sinks to the floor in embarrassment, realizing the pickle he and Frodo have landed themselves in.

==Composition==
Early drafts of the chapter probably were completed near the end of [[1939]]); in that version, the original Fellowship consisted of Gandalf, Boromir, and five Hobbits including "[[Trotter|Peregrin Boffin]]".<ref>{{CG|CG}}, p. xxii</ref>

Later drafts of the chapter were reworked around [[1940]]-[[1941]], with at least three new versions. New material included Aragorn as the [[Heir of Elendil]] and related additions; but since narration was too long,background information was removed to the [[Appendices]] and to another text called ''[[Of the Rings of Power and the Third Age]]''.<ref>{{CG|CG}}, p. xxiii</ref>
{{references}}
[[Category:The Fellowship of the Ring chapters|Council of Elrond]]
[[fi:Elrondin neuvonpito (TSH)]]

The Council of Elrond

2023-09-16T03:57:09Z

Headrock: I believe this is the longest chapter in The Lord of the Rings. Every single paragraph contains at least some piece of information or lore. This summary is roughly 1/4 as long as the original text, but I am finding it very difficult to remove anything. Help needed. More notes on the Discussion page. Minor edits may follow.

{{disambig-more|The Council of Elrond|[[The Council of Elrond (disambiguation)]]}}
{{chapter
| image=Peter Xavier Price - The Lord of Rivendell.jpg
| title=The Council of Elrond
| book=The Fellowship of the Ring
| number=14
| event=The [[Council of Elrond]] is held; [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] volunteers to take the [[The One Ring|

Ring]] to [[Mordor]].
| date=[[25 October]] {{TA|3018|n}}
| location=[[Rivendell]]
| perspective=[[Frodo Baggins]]
| previous=Many Meetings
| next=The Ring Goes South
}}

'''The Council of Elrond''' is the second chapter of the second book in ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.

In this chapter, the visitors to [[Rivendell]] assemble to discuss the matter of the [[One Ring]]. Each, in turn, tells news of their lands, recent events, and the reasons that had brought them to Rivendell. Finally [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] reveals the One Ring and its accompanying doom. [[Gandalf]] describes the capture of [[Gollum]], and his own imprisonment at [[Orthanc]]. A decision is made to take the One Ring to [[Mordor]], where it must be destroyed. Frodo volunteers to carry the Ring there, and when [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]] objects to him going alone, he is drafted to accompany Frodo on his task.

==Summary==

The next morning, [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] and [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]] take a walk in [[Rivendell]] and run into [[Gandalf]] and [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]]. Frodo wants to explore the wilderness around the town, but Gandalf says it will have to wait until after the [[Council of Elrond|great council]], which is about to commence. At that moment, a bell rings out to summon all to the meeting. Sam follows the others even though he was not invited.

The council takes place on the same porch where Frodo had reunited with [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] and [[Peregrin Took|Pippin]] the previous evening. Among the many attendants, Frodo spots [[Elrond]], [[Glorfindel]] and [[Glóin]], as well as [[Strider]] wearing his worn travel clothes again. Gandalf introduces Frodo to the attendants:

{{quote|Here, my friends, is the hobbit, Frodo son of Drogo. Few have ever come hither though greater peril or on an errand more urgent.|[[Gandalf]]}}

Gandalf points out several important figures to Frodo: Glóin's son, [[Gimli]]; [[Erestor]], Elrond's chief counselor; [[Galdor]], a messenger from [[Cirdan the Shipwright]] of the [[Grey Havens]]; and [[Legolas]], son of [[Thranduil]], King of the Elves of [[Mirkwood]]. Frodo also notes a [[Men|Man]] sitting apart from the others, wearing rich but travel-worn clothes, and holding a [[Great Horn|great horn]]. Gandalf says the man's name is [[Boromir]], and that he had arrived that morning from the south, seeking counsel.

Many tales are told about the goings-on in the greater world to the south and east. Frodo had already heard some of this information before, but pays close attention when Glóin begins to speak. Glóin explains that the [[Dwarves]] of [[Erebor]] had grown disquiet, and some decided to attempt to reconquer [[Moria]] under the [[Misty Mountains]].

{{quote|Moria! Moria! Wonder of the Northern world! Too deep we delved there, and woke the nameless fear. Long have its vast mansions lain empty since the children of Durin fled. But now we spoke of it again with longing, and yet with dread; for no dwarf has dared to pass the doors of Khazad-dûm for many lives of kings, save Thrór only, and he perished.|[[Glóin]]}}

Glóin explains that thirty years prior, against King [[Dáin]]'s wishes, [[Balin]] took [[Ori]] and [[Óin]] together with a multitude of other Dwarves on a quest to retake the city. While news at first indicated that they had been successful and prosperous, the messages soon ceased.

According to Glóin, one year ago a messenger from [[Mordor]] arrived at Erebor. The messenger wanted to forge a friendship between [[Sauron]] and the Dwarves. He began asking questions about creatures called [[Hobbits]] - what they were and where they lived - and indicated that Sauron knows that the Dwarves have met one.

{{quote|As a small token only of your friendship Sauron asks this: that you should find this thief, and get from him, willing or no, a little ring, the least of rings, that once he stole. It is but a trifle that Sauron fancies, and an earnest of your good will.|[[Sauron]]'s messenger to [[Erebor]]}}

In return for this information, the messenger promised Dáin three of the lost [[Seven Dwarf-rings|Dwarf-rings]], as well as a guarantee that Moria shall belong to the Dwarves forever. Dáin became very suspicious of this, and refused to give an answer immediately. The messenger gave a veiled threat and rode away. That messenger visited twice more and received the same answer, and then promised to come one final time before the end of the year. The Dwarves have since learned that similar messengers had also been sent to King [[Brand]] of [[Dale]].

The Dwarves and Men of the North now fear that Mordor is about to attack them. Dáin has sent Glóin to Rivendell to warn Bilbo that the Enemy might come for him, and to ask for Elrond's counsel on this matter. Elrond commends Dáin on his decision, but says that the Dwarves have no choice but to resist, with or without hope. He reassures them that they are not alone: the trouble belongs to all of the western world.

Elrond begins to explain the ancient history of [[The One Ring]] in full. First, he tells of how the [[Rings of Power]] were forged during the [[Second Age]] - a tale which we are told was only known in full to few of the listeners. According to Elrond, the Elves of [[Eregion]] and Dwarves of Moria were once friends; but the Elves' eagerness for knowledge made them susceptible to Sauron's charms, who at the time did not appear in his evil form. The Dark Lord learned their arts and crafted the One Ring in secret at [[Orodruin]] to control the others. Only [[Celebrimbor]] suspected him, and hid the [[Three Rings]] that he had created without Sauron's aid. A war ensued, during which the land of Eregion was destroyed and the gate of Moria was shut.

Throughout the rest of the morning, Elrond continues the story of the One Ring during the Second Age. He speaks of the fall of [[Númenor]] and the arrival of [[Men of the West]] in [[Middle-earth]]. He tells of [[Elendil]] and his sons, [[Isildur]] and [[Anárion]], who founded the northern kingdom of [[Arnor]] and southern kingdom of [[Gondor]]. Sauron assaulted their kingdoms, and the [[Last Alliance]] was forged between Elendil and [[Gil-Galad]] to defeat him.

Elrond says he remembers those days clearly. Frodo asks how this is possible, as it happened so long ago. Elrond briefly explains his lineage - descending from [[Eärendil]] and [[Elwing]] - saying that he has lived through all Three Ages of the world.

He goes on to describe the [[Battle of Dagorlad]], at which he was present: the armies of the Last Alliance stood before the [[Black Gate]] of Mordor, and could not be stopped by the evil forces. He tells of the [[Siege of Barad-dûr]] that followed, where Gil-Galad and Elendil were killed. Isildur picked up his father's broken sword, [[Narsil]], and with it cut the Ring from Sauron's hand, destroying the Dark Lord and taking the Ring for himself.

At this, Boromir suddenly interjects, surprised to hear that Isildur took the Ring; the story had been forgotten to his people, who thought that the Ring had been destroyed that day. Elrond says that he witnessed the event personally: together with Cirdan he tried to convince Isildur to destroy the Ring, then and there; however Isildur refused, claiming the Ring as compensation for his father's and brother's deaths. Elrond then speaks of Isildur's ambush by [[Orcs]] at the [[Gladden Fields]], where he lost the Ring. He notes that Isildur's squire, [[Ohtar]], survived the ambush and brought the broken shards of Narsil back to Rivendell, where Isildur's heir [[Valandil]] lived under supervision, as he was only a child at the time.

Elrond concludes the story, saying that because the Ring was not destroyed, Sauron was not wholly destroyed either. He explains that Elves and Men have grown estranged since, and that the race of Númenor has decayed: now men live shorter lives, and the Elves are decreasing in numbers. The city of [[Annúminas]] fell into ruin, and the heirs of Valandil moved to [[Fornost]], which was eventually destroyed by the forces of [[Angmar]].

Elrond now describes the annals of the realm of Gondor to the south, which still endures. Its capital once resided in [[Osgiliath]], astride both sides of the [[Anduin|Great River]]. The Men of Gondor built [[Minas Ithil]], a tower on the western slopes of the [[Ephel Dúath|Mountains of Shadow]], to guard against the evil creatures of Mordor. They then built the corresponding tower of [[Minas Anor]] on the eastern end of the [[White Mountains]]. At the top of Minas Anor was planted a [[White Tree of Gondor|white tree]], descended from a tree that once grew in the [[Valinor|Uttermost West]] in the early days of the world. Eventually, the line of kings [[Anárion]] and [[Meneldil]] failed, Númenorean blood mingled with that of "lesser men", and the tree withered. The men of Gondor failed in their vigil against Mordor, resulting in foul creatures conquering Minas Ithil (now renamed [[Minas Morgul]], the Tower of Sorcery). Minas Anor was renamed [[Minas Tirith]] (the Tower of Guard), Osgiliath was evacuated of its population, and Gondor and Mordor have been at war with each other ever since.

As Elrond finishes speaking, Boromir rises and reveals that Gondor is his homeland. He proceeds to inform the others of its current state. He claims that the blood of Númenor has not yet been spent, and that only by the valor of his countrymen in their constant battle against Morgul are the lands beyond Gondor kept safe and peaceful. He warns that Gondor's day of defeat may not be far off, as evil has awoken in Mordor once more. In June earlier this year, the Forces of Mordor invaded and conquered [[Ithilien]] - Gondor's land to the east of the Anduin. Boromir claims that Mordor is now allied with the [[Easterlings]] and [[Haradrim]], and that there is some great power strengthening their armies - a great black horseman whose mere presence inflicts fear on the bravest of men. The Gondorians have since scuttled the bridge connecting both sides of Osgiliath, cutting themselves off from Ithilien but also preventing the enemy from crossing the Anduin there. Boromir and his brother were present at the battle, and made it back across the river with only two soldiers remaining. Boromir fears that Gondor has no other ally now, except Rohan to its west.

Boromir now explains his arrival at Rivendell, saying that he has come to seek Elrond's counsel regarding a dream that he and his brother have experienced. In this dream, shadows and thunder came from the east, but in the west was still a pale light; then he heard a voice crying from the west:

{{quote|Seek for the Sword that was broken;
   In Imladris it dwells;
There shall be counsels taken
   Stronger than Morgul-spells.
There shall be shown a token
   That Doom is near at hand,
For Isildur's Bane shall waken
   And the Halfling forth shall stand.|[[Boromir]]'s Dream}}

Boromir and his brother went to their father, [[Denethor]], Lord of Minas Tirith, and consulted with him about this dream. Denethor recognized the name "Imladris" as the home of Elrond, far away to the north. Boromir's brother volunteered to go seek it, but Boromir realized the dangerous nature of the journey and took the quest upon himself instead, despite his father's objections.

At this, Aragorn stands up and places his broken sword on the table, identifying it as the sword mentioned in Boromir's dream. Elrond introduces Aragorn to Boromir and the others as a direct descendant of Isildur himself. Frodo immediately exclaims that the Ring should be given to Aragorn, but Aragorn rejects ownership of it. Elrond instead bids Frodo hold up the Ring for all to see.

Fighting a strong reluctance to reveal the Ring, Frodo eventually does so. Elrond introduces the Ring to the others as "Isildur's Bane" - Sauron's Ruling Ring. Boromir is immediately dismayed, believing that it signals doom for his homeland. Aragorn asks Boromir whether he wishes for the House of Elendil to return to Gondor. Boromir doesn't give a clear answer; he seems desperate, but doubtful.

{{Quote|I was not sent to beg any boon, but to seek only the meaning of a riddle. Yet we are hard pressed, and the Sword of Elendil would be a help beyond our hope - if such a thing could indeed return out of the shadows of the past.|[[Boromir]]}}

Bilbo leaps up and recites the [[Riddle of Strider]] aloud, which concludes with the line "The crownless again shall be king." As he sits back down, he reveals to Frodo that it was he who had written that song after first meeting Aragorn.

Aragorn explains a little of his own background to Boromir, saying that Narsil has been passed down diligently from Valandil to each of his successive heirs, ending up with Aragorn. He forgives Boromir for doubting him, admitting that he seems nothing like Isildur or the kings of old, but claims to have made many journeys and fought many servants of the Enemy; just like Gondor in the South, the Dúnedain have been protecting the lands in the north. He tells Boromir that the Dúnedain's job has been even more thankless than Gondor's, as they are given scornful names by the very people they protect, and their work must always be kept secret from the simple folk.

Aragorn concludes by announcing that he will come to Minas Tirith to aid in the coming battle. Boromir expresses doubts about the Ring's identity, asking many questions about it and the story of its recovery. Bilbo asks to adjourn for refreshments before that story is told, but Elrond asks him to tell his story first. Before Bilbo begins his tale, he apologizes if any of those present (particularly Glóin) have heard him tell it differently before; he was simply hoping to keep the Ring for himself and avoid being called a "thief".

Bilbo recounts his encounter with Gollum in full, and is cut short by Elrond before he can describe his entire journey to Erebor. Elrond then asks Frodo to recount his own experience with the Ring since the day he received it. The other council-members ask many questions as he does so, until all details are recounted and considered. Bilbo remarks to Frodo that they should some day discuss the story in private so that Bilbo could write it down in a book.

Frodo is curious about Gandalf's absence during his journey from [[The Shire]] to Rivendell. Galdor joins Frodo in this inquiry, also asking to know why the [[Wise]] are so sure about the Ring's identity, given the long span of time that had passed between its loss and supposed reappearance. He asks about [[Saruman]]'s absence from the present council, wondering about the White Wizard's opinion on the matter at hand. Elrond calls on Gandalf as the last speaker, to answer these questions.

Gandalf first points out that there is only one ring left that Sauron might still be looking for, given that all of the others are either destroyed, in safe keeping, or in the hands of the [[Nazgûl]]. He also points out that Bilbo found his ring in the same year that Sauron (posing as the "Necromancer") was defeated at his fortress in [[Dol Guldur]] - a suspicious coincidence. Gandalf then reveals that Saruman had rejected the idea that the Ring would ever be found again - claiming it had rolled into the sea by now - and attempted to dissuade the other members of the [[White Council]] from taking any open actions against Sauron. This, Gandalf says, gave Sauron the chance to anticipate their actions and withdraw safely from Dol Guldur to Mordor, where he had already been at work building his strength. Saruman claimed that Sauron's belief that the Ring could still be found was an advantage for the White Council, as Sauron would waste effort trying to find it.

Lulled into inaction by Saruman's words, Gandalf set aside his worries about Bilbo's newfound ring; but doubt kept growing in him. Expecting Gollum to come out of his cave to seek the Ring, Gandalf did spot the creature; but when Gollum evaded him he decided to let the matter go, and did not discuss it with anyone for fear of stirring up needless trouble. However when various spies began congregating around The Shire after Bilbo's birthday party, Gandalf consulted Aragorn, who convinced him to act on his suspicions and go hunting for Gollum together.

Gandalf and Aragorn found traces of Gollum near Mordor, but could not find the creature himself. Then Gandalf was reminded of Saruman's description of the One Ring:

{{quote|The Nine, the Seven, and the Three had each their proper gem. Not so the One. It was round and unadorned, as it were one of the lesser rings; but its maker set marks upon it that the skilled, maybe, could still see and read.|[[Saruman]]'s description of the [[One Ring]], according to [[Gandalf]]}}

Not knowing what those marks might be, Gandalf figured that the only way this information could've reached Saruman was through some account by Isildur - the only person other than Sauron ever known to have definitely held the One Ring. Gandalf therefore set out to Gondor, to study their scrolls and archives. Denethor received him coldly, but allowed him to study the texts nevertheless.

Gandalf reveals that he had found a scroll written by Isildur himself after acquiring the Ring. Boromir confirms that it is common knowledge in Gondor that Isildur returned to Minas Tirith first, and lived with Meneldil for a while before setting off north - at which time he could have written such an account. Gandalf recites from the scroll, where Isildur specifically stated that he was taking the Ring to the northern kingdom and wanted to leave an account of it in Gondor, so that future generations would not forget.

According to the [[Scroll of Isildur]], the Ring had at first scorched Isildur's hand, but quickly cooled and shrank. Before it did, Isildur noted words inscribed into the Ring, which slowly faded over time. He could not read the inscription, which was written in the dark tongue of Mordor using Elvish script, but managed to copy it down before it disappeared. He surmised, correctly, that the script might re-appear if the Ring was ever reintroduced to a source of heat resembling Sauron's burning hand; but Isildur could not bring himself to do so, as the Ring was too valuable to him as an heirloom.

Upon learning this, Gandalf immediately left Minas Tirith heading north. On his way, he received messages from [[Lothlórien]] that Aragorn had managed to capture Gollum. This prompts Aragorn to tell his account of the hunt for Gollum. He had made it to the Black Gate and the [[Morgul Vale]], but could not find Gollum. He despaired and turned homewards, but then found the creature's tracks by chance and followed it into the [[Dead Marshes]], where he finally caught Gollum peering into the water. Gollum bit Aragorn, but would tell him nothing. Gollum was then bound and gagged, and made to walk all the way back to Mirkwood, where he was handed off to the Wood Elves for imprisonment. Gandalf soon arrived, and interrogated the creature at length.

Gandalf confirms that Gollums's story matches the one told by Bilbo just moments earlier. Furthermore, Gollum's interrogation revealed that he had found the ring in the Great River, and had kept it for hundreds of years - far longer than the lifespan of his race. Gandalf notes that only the Great Rings have the power to extend life to such magnitude. Gandalf hopes that this information would put Galdor's doubts to rest regarding the identity of the Ring. Nevertheless, he recounts the text that Isildur had copied down from the ring, and announces that he had performed the test of fire upon it and confirmed the appearance of the same words. Gandalf then recites the part of the [[Ring Verse]] that appeared, causing a shadow to briefly pass over Rivendell and forcing some of the Elves to stop their ears.

Finally, Gandalf reveals that Gollum had made it to Mordor, was captured and tortured there, and revealed all that he knew to Sauron. He surmises that Sauron has already figured out that the Ring is now in Rivendell.
Boromir asks what punishment was inflicted on Gollum. Gandalf says that Gollum had already suffered enough on account of the Ring and the torture in Mordor, and so was left as a prisoner in Mirkwood. He notes that Gollum was capable of much greater feats than his emaciated form might suggest on account of his burning desire for the Ring, and suspects that Gollum was released from Mordor's clutches in order to perform some unknown, nefarious task.

Legolas now joins the conversation for the first time, with alarming news: He was sent to Rivendell from Mirkwood to report that Gollum had escaped their prison. He says that, having learned of Gollum's sad story and heeded Gandalf's hopes that he might still be cured of his condition, the Elves took pity on the creature and moved him out of the dungeons. Glóin grumbles that he and [[Thorin and Company|Thorin's Company]] did not receive such tender mercy during their stay in the Elves' dungeon, forcing Gandalf to interject in order to prevent a quarrel about past grievances.

Legolas continues, describing Gollum's escape. He was taken out for a walk in the forest, and allowed to climb a tall tree he was fond of; however that day he refused to come down for many hours. The Elves stood guard at the bottom of the tree, but at night were suddenly attacked by a large group of Orcs from the mountains. When the Orcs were finally driven off, Gollum's guards were found slain, and he was gone. The Elves surmised that Gollum was somehow aware that the attack was going to occur that day, perhaps through one of Sauron's spies.

According to Legolas, the Elves began searching for Gollum immediately, and found his tracks among those of a large group of Orcs. Unfortunately, the tracks soon disappeared in the vicinity of Dol Guldur, and the Elves were reluctant to keep searching in that direction. He explains that Mirkwood has once again become full of the evil creatures that had previously been driven out after the [[Attack on Dol Guldur]]. Gandalf expresses frustration, but says that Gollum will now play whatever part was destined to him - hopefully one that Sauron has not foreseen.

Finally, Gandalf comes to the story of his own disappearance. In June he had left [[Hobbiton]] for the southern edge of The Shire, where he received news of Mordor's invasion of Ithilien. Hurrying east to [[Bree]], he ran into [[Radagast the Brown]], a fellow [[Wizard]], who had been seeking him. Radagast reported to Gandalf that Nazgûl had been sighted crossing the Great River in secret, on their way westwards, disguised as riders in black. According to Radagast, the Nazgûl had been asking anyone they came across about a land called "Shire". Radagast adds that Saruman had sent him on this errand, offering to help if Gandalf wished it. Gandalf hoped that Saruman, who was wise in the ways of the Enemy, had found some weapon to help drive the Nazgûl away. Before Radagast could ride off, Gandalf asked him to have beasts and birds collect information and deliver it directly to [[Orthanc]].

Gandalf stayed that night in Bree, where he decided to ride to [[Isengard]] instead of back to the Shire. He wrote a message to Frodo and left it with his friend [[Barliman Butterbur]] at the [[Prancing Pony]]. He then rode south along the [[Misty Mountains]] to the [[Gap of Rohan]]. Gandalf continues to describe Isengard as a circle of sheer rock enclosing a valley at the southern edge of the Misty Mountains, with a lone tower at its center. As he rode through the heavily-defended gate in the rocky wall, he felt an unexplained trepidation. Reaching the tower, he was greeted by Saruman and let inside. He notes that Saruman was wearing a ring on his finger.

Gandalf asked Saruman for aid, but received only condescention in return. Saruman facetiously wondered what brought Gandalf out of The Shire, indicating that he knew Gandalf was keeping some very important secret from him. When Gandalf reports what he had heard from Radagast, Saruman insults Radagast and reveals that he was sent to lure Gandalf to Orthanc. Gandalf then notices that Saruman was wearing a robe of many colors.

Saruman then offered Gandalf a choice. Claiming that the time of the Elves is over, and that the time of Men is beginning, Saruman suggested that the Wizards should be the ones to rule in this new age. For this, he said, they needed to align themselves with the rising power of Middle Earth.

{{quote|A new Power is rising. Against it the old allies and policies will not avail us at all. There is no hope left in Elves or dying Númenor. This then is one choice before you, before us. We may join with that Power. It would be wise, Gandalf. There is hope that way. Its victory is at hand; and there will be rich reward for those that aided it.|[[Saruman]]}}

Saruman then revealed that he had already figured out that Gandalf had been protecting the One Ring in The Shire. He pressed Gandalf to reveal its whereabouts. Gandalf refused to reveal anything, realizing that Saruman and Sauron were now simply two sides of the same coin.

Gandalf was taken to the Pinnacle of Orthanc, where he saw that the once-green valley of Isengard was now filled with pits and forges. Saruman has been mustering an army of Orcs and Wolves, which Gandalf surmised would be used in rivalry to Sauron rather than at his service. He could not escape the tower, and was forced to spend his days in the cold and the smoke billowing from below. Frodo exclaims that he had seen this event in one of his dreams during his journey.

Gandalf's salvation came thanks to the uncorruptible Radagast, who had fortunately merely played the part of an unwitting pawn in Saruman's plans. Radagast did as Gandalf asked, riding east to seek allies. Eventually, he found the [[Great Eagles]], who began to scout the lands around the Misty Mountains and learned of the coming of the Nazgûl and of Gollum's escape from Mirkwood. [[Gwaihir]], fastest of the Great Eagles, came to Isengard to deliver this news, only to find Gandalf at the top of the tower and bear him away from there before Saruman could intervene.

Gwaihir could not take Gandalf very far, so Gandalf decided to be taken to nearby [[Rohan]] where he could acquire a fast horse for the journey back north. Gwaihir assured him that while Rohan had been sending horses as tribute to [[Mordor]], they had not yet allied with the Dark Lord. At [[Edoras]], Gandalf discovered that Saruman's lies had already taken hold, and he was received very coldly. The king ordered him to take a horse and be gone, so Gandalf chose the best steed in the land and rode off.

Aragorn laments this state of affairs in the land of Rohan, but Boromir stands up in their defense, claiming that the [[Rohirrim]] are honorable men and would never give away their beloved horses as tribute. Gandalf agrees, adding that the horse he had chosen is indeed one of their most precious horses: [[Shadowfax]], born in the early days of the world; a horse too fast even for Nazgûl horses to catch, never before ridden by any man. He says that Shadowfax bore him from Rohan all the way to The Shire in the time it took Frodo to reach the [[Barrow-downs]]. Nevertheless, Gandalf could not catch up with the Nazgûl, who were already well ahead of him.

Gandalf reached Hobbiton and had words with [[Gaffer Gamgee]], discovering that Frodo had already left less than a week earlier, and that Black Riders had come looking for him the same night. Gandalf rode on to [[Buckland]] and found it in uproar after the Nazgûl attack on [[Crickhollow]]. At the house, he found Frodo's cape (left there by [[Fatty Bolger]]) and thought the worst had happened. He tracked two Nazgûl to Bree, where he met with Barliman Butterbur. The innkeeper broke down immediately, apologizing for letting the Hobbits continue on with Strider, not realizing that Gandalf had hoped this would happen. Overjoyed at the knowledge that the Hobbits were not captured and were now with Aragorn, Gandalf rested a night at the Prancing Pony. That night, five Black Riders stormed right through Bree, heading east. He surmises that the Black Riders had made a tactical error in splitting their forces to attack Hobbiton and Buckland, leaving the way open to the east for a short time, accidentally letting the Hobbits and Strider through.

Gandalf rode after the Nazgûl in the morning, and intercepted them at Weathertop. The Nazgûl waited for nightfall, and finally attacked. The battle raged through the night, and at sunrise Gandalf escaped to the north, drawing four of the riders away for a while, though they eventually gave up and turned back. Unable to do anything more to help, Gandalf navigated his way across country to Rivendell, and eventually released Shadowfax partway there. He says that he had become good friends with the horse, and that Shadowfax would return to his aid, if he ever called. He finally reached Rivendell only three days before Frodo.

Now that all storied have finally been told, Elrond expresses his dismay at the fall of Saruman, who had been their trusted counsel. However he also expresses great marvel at the resilience of the Hobbits during their journey, and has found Frodo's story most interesting. In particular, he notes that he had forgotten all about [[Tom Bombadil]], whom he calls Iarwain Ben-adar, "oldest and fatherless". He laments not having invited Bombadil to the council, but Gandalf says he would not have come.

Erestor asks whether it would not be wise to give the Ring to Bombadil, on whom it has no effect. Gandalf explains that while Bombadil might agree, he would not understand the importance of the task, and might even lose the Ring eventually. In any case, Gandalf asserts that even Bombadil in his own little realm could not stand up to the full power of Sauron. Glorfindel adds that taking the Ring to Bombadil in secret would also be impossible now.

Galdor agrees with this assessment, claiming that any hope remaining is now here at Rivendell, or at the Grey Havens, or in Lothlórien. Elrond responds that neither he nor those other Elven lands have the power to endure the coming storm. Glorfindel concludes that there are only two options remaining: Send the Ring west over the sea, or destroy it. Elrond counters both options: For one, the Ring cannot be destroyed by any means they possess; and the people of Valinor would not accept the Ring into their care, as it is an evil belonging to Middle-Earth, and thus a problem that the people of Middle-Earth must solve for themselves.

Glorfindel then suggests throwing the Ring into the sea, subverting and fulfilling the lie that Saruman had told them about it. Gandalf counters this by saying that vile creatures in the deep might find and retrieve it, or that the seas might one day shift and bring it back to the surface. He is adamant that a permanent end to the problem must be found. Galdor again agrees, adding that it would be extremely difficult to get the Ring to the sea anyway, with the Enemy still watching the roads there. He asserts that the Nazgûl would soon return with faster riding beasts, and would be expecting the Ring to travel west. He doubts the ability of Gondor to keep the forces of Sauron at bay much longer, and they would eventually break through and come straight for the Grey Havens. Boromir defends his people, saying they still have the strength to fight, but Galdor notes that the Black Riders might bypass Gondor altogether.

Erestor concludes that Glorfindels earlier assessment was correct: Either they hide the Ring, or find a way to destroy it. Elrond finally speaks, agreeing that the roads to the west are predictable and must be shunned. Therefore, they must go east, to Mordor, to destroy the Ring where it was made.

Boromir interjects, offering a third options: to use the Ring as a weapon, just as Saruman had planned to do for his own ends. Elrond states that the Ring cannot be used, as it is wholly evil and obeys only the Dark Lord who made it. He brings up Saruman's corruption as an example of a once-benevolent and powerful figure consumed by desire for the Ring. He says that even Sauron was not evil in the beginning, and that if any of the Wise were to take the Ring for themselves, they would simply replace him and become evil rulers themselves. He refuses to take the Ring, even to hide it, and so does Gandalf.

Boromir is dismayed, but expresses some hope that the Sword that was Broken might still come to Gondor's aid, if Aragorn proves to be made of the same mettle as his ancestors. He also hopes that others will fight as valiantly as his people do, and Elrond reassures him that they will.

Glóin suggests pooling together the efforts of their disparate kingdoms. In particular, he suggests using the other Rings of Power to aid them in the coming conflict. He notes that one Dwarf-ring - [[Ring of Thrór|Thrór's ring]] - might still be found in Moria, and that perhaps Balin has already found it there. Gandalf reports that this is impossible, as that ring was taken by Saruman from [[Thrór]]'s heir [[Thráin]] during his torture at Dol Guldur. Glóin asks about the Elven-rings, but Elrond dismisses the question offhand. He says that the Three Rings were made without Sauron's involvement, and would serve no purpose as weapons. He adds that if Sauron was ever to regain the One Ring, anything that was gained by the Three would be subverted and ruined anyway. He remarks that this was Sauron's plan all along, and laments that the Three Rings had been created in the first place.

Glóin asks what would happen, then, if the One Ring was destroyed. Elrond responds that no one knows, but hopes that the Three would become free in that case, though they might lose all their power instead. Glorfindel remarks that the Elves are willing to take that risk, if it means ridding Middle-Earth of the threat of Sauron.

The conversation returns to the matter of destroying the Ring. Erestor comments that there is little chance of reaching the Fire where the Ring could be destroyed, calling the idea a "folly". Gandalf retorts that this might actually be an advantage: Sauron understands only the desire for power, and expects anyone who comes across the Ring to use it; he cannot understand a desire to destroy it. As such, the attempt to destroy it might catch him off-guard, at least for a while. Elrond agrees with this assessment, adding:

{{quote|This quest may be attempted by the weak with as much hope as the strong. Yet such is oft the course of deeds that move the wheels of the world: small hands do them because they must, while the eyes of the great are elsewhere.|[[Elrond]]}}

At this, Bilbo stands up, saying that he's received the hint, and volunteers to take the Ring to Mordor himself. He laments only that he might not get the chance to write the ending to his book, which would now have to be amended because he might not "live happily ever after to the end of his days". Boromir is amused by this, but quickly realizes that all others present regard Bilbo's offer with great respect. Gandalf thanks Bilbo for his bravery, but says that Bilbo's part in the story had already ended when he passed on the Ring, except to record the events in a sequel book when the chosen questers eventually come back.

Bilbo asks who those questers will be, then. Silence falls on the council as they ponder the question with heavy hearts. Frodo slowly comes to the realization that the course of events he had dreaded is now inevitable. With great difficulty, he finally speaks:

{{quote|I will take the Ring, though I do not know the way.|[[Frodo Baggins]]}}

Realizing the implications, Elrond tells Frodo that the task may have been appointed for him, and that he might be the only one who might be able to find the way. He ponders this unlikely turn of events, which none of the Wise had foreseen. He tells Frodo that the decision must be his alone, voluntarily, but that if he chose to go he would be counted among the greatest Elf-friends who ever lived, among the likes of [[Hador]], [[Húrin]], [[Túrin]] and [[Beren]].

Suddenly, Sam leaps up from his hiding place, protesting that Frodo must not be sent on this quest alone.

{{quote|No indeed! You at least shall go with him. It is hardly possible to separate you from him, even when he is summoned to a secret council and you are not.|[[Elrond]]}}

At this, Sam sinks to the floor in embarrassment, realizing the pickle he and Frodo have landed themselves in.

==Composition==
Early drafts of the chapter probably were completed near the end of [[1939]]); in that version, the original Fellowship consisted of Gandalf, Boromir, and five Hobbits including "[[Trotter|Peregrin Boffin]]".<ref>{{CG|CG}}, p. xxii</ref>

Later drafts of the chapter were reworked around [[1940]]-[[1941]], with at least three new versions. New material included Aragorn as the [[Heir of Elendil]] and related additions; but since narration was too long,background information was removed to the [[Appendices]] and to another text called ''[[Of the Rings of Power and the Third Age]]''.<ref>{{CG|CG}}, p. xxiii</ref>
{{references}}
[[Category:The Fellowship of the Ring chapters|Council of Elrond]]
[[fi:Elrondin neuvonpito (TSH)]]

Many Meetings

2023-08-01T00:38:25Z

Headrock: /* Summary */

{{chapter
| image=Donato Giancola - Rivendell - Recovery.jpeg
| title=Many Meetings
| book=The Fellowship of the Ring
| number=13
| event=[[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] wakes in [[Rivendell]]; he learns about the [[Nazgûl|Black Riders]].
| location=[[Rivendell]]
| date=[[24 October]] {{TA|3018|n}}
| previous=Flight to the Ford
| next=The Council of Elrond
}}

'''Many Meetings''' is the first chapter of the second book in ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.

In this chapter, Frodo awakes at [[Rivendell]] and is reunited with [[Gandalf]] and the other [[Hobbits]]. He is invited to a feast in his honor, where he meets [[Glóin]] and hears many news of the [[Dwarves]]. He also observes [[Arwen]]. After the meal, he is reunited with [[Bilbo]], who is still sick with longing for [[The One Ring]].

==Summary==

When [[Frodo Baggins]] awakes, he sees [[Gandalf]] for the first time in months. The old [[Wizard]] tells him that it is [[24 October]]; that he is in the house of [[Elrond]] at [[Rivendell]]; and that his other friends are fine.

Frodo cannot remember how he arrived at Rivendell. Gandalf explains that Frodo was beginning to fade due to the evil wound he'd suffered at [[Weathertop]]. Gandalf seems to know much about Frodo's journey thus far, explaining that Frodo talks in his sleep. Frodo asks Gandalf where he'd been all this time, but the only thing Gandalf is willing to reveal for now is that he was held captive.

Gandalf tells Frodo that war is about to break out; the [[Black Riders]] he'd encountered were in fact the Ringwraiths - the Nine kings of [[Men]] he had previously told Frodo about - who received rings from [[Sauron]] and became his servants. Gandalf says he had not learned that they were coming for Frodo until after he'd left [[The Shire]].

Frodo says they wouldn't have made it without Strider's help. He'd previously thought all Men were either kind and stupid like [[Barliman Butterbur]] or stupid and wicked like [[Bill Ferny]]. Gandalf stands up for Butterbur:

{{quote|He is wise enough on his own ground. He thinks less than he talks, and slower; yet he can see through a brick wall in time. But there are few left in Middle-earth like Aragorn son of Arathorn. The race of the Kings from over the Sea is nearly at an end. It may be that this War of the Ring will be their last adventure.|[[Gandalf]]}}

Gandalf continues to explain that the [[Rangers]] are the last remnants of the [[Men of the West]] in the North of Middle-earth, and have helped Gandalf before. He hopes they will help again in the future, given that [[The One Ring]]'s journey is not over yet. Frodo hopes he won't have to carry it any further.

Frodo discovers that his shoulder wound no longer hurts, and he can move his arm a little. Gandalf explains that Elrond has been tending to Frodo for days, and only managed to remove the splinter of the [[Morgul-knife]] from his shoulder the previous night. He says that had the shard not been removed, Frodo would have become a wraith himself, under the command of the Dark Lord. He marvels at the mettle and courage of [[Hobbits]], to have carried the shard for 17 days without succumbing.

Frodo says he could see the Ringwraiths' true forms while he was wearing the Ring, but wonders how everyone could see their black horses. Gandalf explains that the horses were real, bred for that purpose to serve Sauron. He lists the many different types of creatures under Sauron's command, saying that their numbers are growing.

Frodo asks whether Rivendell is safe. Gandalf replies that it would be the last place to fall, as the Elves will not submit to Sauron. He says that Rivendell is home to some of the [[Eldar|Elven-wise]], who live in both the seen and unseen worlds simultaneously, and can therefore fight the Ringwraiths.

Frodo surmises that the glowing white figure he saw behind the Ringwraiths at the [[Ford of Bruinen]] was [[Glorfindel]], as he appears on the "other side". Gandalf confirms this, calling him "one of the mighty of the [[Firstborn]], an Elf-lord of a house of princes". Nevertheless, he says that even Rivendell and other places of great power (including The Shire) would eventually come under siege if all else around them falls to Sauron.

Gandalf examines Frodo with his magical sight, and sees a hint of transparency about him. He wonders to himself what will become of Frodo, but guesses that he would not fall to evil. He hopes that Frodo would eventually become "like a glass filled with clear light for eyes to see that can."

Frodo asks Gandalf to explain what happened at the Ford. Gandalf retells the story more clearly, adding that Glorfindel had the others prepare flaming brands to drive the remaining Black Riders into the river, after the first three had drowned. Frodo inquires whether the Ringwraiths have been vanquished for good. Gandalf explains that only the horses perished; the Ringwraiths cannot be defeated so easily, but have gone away for now.

Frodo asks what caused the flood. Gandalf says that it was Elrond, commanding the river that runs through his domain. Gandalf adds that the waves taking the shape of white horses and riders was his own personal touch.

Gandalf tells Frodo that he will be treated to a great feast to celebrate this victory, honoring Frodo as the Ring-bearer and heir to [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]], the Ring-finder. Frodo wonders what happened to Bilbo, wishing he could tell him of the last month's adventures. He falls asleep.

Frodo wakes that evening feeling much better. He examines himself in a mirror, discovering that he had thinned. [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]] enters, quickly running to hold Frodo's hand, which he is glad to find warm for the first time in days. He raves about the Elves for a while until Frodo asks him to provide a tour of Rivendell. Sam takes Frodo to the gardens, where he is reunited with [[Peregrin Took|Pipping]] and [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]].

{{quote|Hurray! Here is our noble cousin! Make way for Frodo, Lord of the Ring!|[[Peregrin Took]]}}

Gandalf chides Pippin for that epithet, saying that only the Master of [[Barad-dûr|the Dark Tower of Mordor]] is the Lord of the Ring.

The group goes to the hall of Elrond's house, where they meet many other guests. Frodo observes Elrond for the first time, noting that he is both venerable and youthful. At the dinner table he also sees [[Arwen Undómiel]], Elrond's daughter, who is described to us as both queenly and thoughtful. The narrator explains that she had recently returned from [[Lothlórien|Lórien]], and that her brothers [[Elladan]] and [[Elrohir]] are currently away on an errand.

Next to Frodo at the table is a [[Dwarves|dwarf]] with a white beard. The dwarf introduces himself as [[Glóin]], and Frodo recognizes him as one of [[Thorin and Company|Thorin's twelve companions]]. Glóin is curious what brings four Hobbits to Rivendell, but correctly guesses that the matter should not yet be discussed. Similarly, he refuses to discuss what bring him to Rivendell, until the time is right.

From Glóin, Frodo learns that [[Grimbeorn the Old]], son of [[Beorn]], is now master of the lands between [[Mirkwood]] and the [[Misty Mountains]], and holds it fast against the [[Orcs]]. Glóin laments that the [[Beornings]] now charge a heavy toll for passage through their land, and do not like Dwarves. He also tells of the [[Men of Dale]], who've become strong allies to the Dwarves. [[Dale]] is now ruled by [[Brand]], grandson of [[Bard]].

With Frodo's permission, Glóin tells many stories about current events in the land of the Dwarves. He says that [[Dáin Ironfoot]] is still king of [[Erebor]], and that seven of the Dwarves that took the Mountain are still with him, including [[Bombur]] who has grown incredibly fat. However when Frodo inquires about the fates of [[Balin]], [[Ori]] and [[Óin]], Glóin regretfully says that he does not know; it is one of the reasons he came to Rivendell, to ask for counsel on the matter.

Glóin continues to extol the virtues of the new Dwarven kingdom under the Mountain: the Dwarves have exceeded their former skills in architecture, but have yet to be able to produce the same quality of weapons and armor as they did before the coming of [[Smaug]]. Frodo promises to visit Erebor if he gets the chance. Glóin mentions Bilbo, and Frodo says he wishes to see his uncle again more than anything.

After dinner, the guests are shown to the [[Hall of Fire]]. Frodo spots Bilbo sitting alone in the corner. Bilbo tells Frodo that he and Sam sat together by Frodo's side throughout his recovery. At Bilbo's bidding, messengers are sent to find [[Strider]] (whom he calls "the Dúnadan"), who was missing from the feast.

Bilbo says that his journey out of [[Hobbiton]] was aimless at first, but seemed to lead him always towards Rivendell. He then joined up with Dwarves and went back to Dale - his final journey - before returning to Rivendell again, where he stayed.

Bilbo speaks about The One Ring, lamenting that he hadn't kept it and brought it to Rivendell himself, saving Frodo the trouble. He asks to see the Ring. Frodo discovers that the Elves had replaced its chain with a lighter, stronger one. He pulls out the Ring, but when Bilbo puts his hand out to take it, Frodo suddenly gets the urge to keep it away from Bilbo. For an instant he sees Bilbo as a gaunt, hungry creature, and feels a desire to strike him.

The hall suddenly goes quiet. Bilbo seems suddenly to understand the power of the Ring, and asks Frodo to put it away. He apologizes for having burdened Frodo with carrying on the adventure. Frodo puts the Ring away, and the hall is once again filled with music and merriment.

Frodo tells Bilbo many stories from The Shire. As they talk, Strider suddenly appears. Bilbo explains that the name he calls Strider - "Dúnadan" - means [[Man of the West]]. He asks Strider why he'd missed the feast, mentioning that Arwen was present. Strider says that Elladan and Elrohir had returned from their errand with important news, which he wanted to hear as soon as possible.

Bilbo asks for Strider's help in writing a song to cap the evening's celebration. While they discuss it, Frodo begins to lose himself in the music and singing of the Elves in the hall, as it carries him to sleep. He is awakened to hear the voice of Bilbo, who starts singing [[Song of Eärendil|his new song]]. The song is very long, and by the time it is over, Frodo sees that many Elves had gathered around to hear it.

An Elf named [[Lindir]] asks to hear the song again, but Bilbo is too tired to repeat it. Lindir says that Bilbo is never too tired to repeat his own songs, causing Bilbo to chastise him for not noticing that Strider had written several of the verses. Lindir claims that it is difficult for Elves to distinguish between two mortals, much to Bilbo's dismay.

{{quote|To sheep other sheep no doubt appear different. Or to shepherds. But Mortals have not been our study. We have other business.|[[Lindir]]}}

To Frodo, Bilbo admits to have written the entire song; Strider wanted nothing to do with writing songs about Eärendil in Elrond's house. Bilbo suggests going to talk in private, and they both turn to leave. As they exit the hall, one of the Elves begins to sing the hymn [[A Elbereth Gilthoniel]]. Frodo looks back into the hall, briefly seeing Arwen again, with Aragorn standing beside her; he appears to Frodo as though wearing Elven mail, with a star shining on his breast. Arwen looks at Frodo, and he is instantly enchanted.

Bilbo leads Frodo to his room, and they talk for hours about the beautiful things they had seen during their separate adventures. Their conversation is only interrupted when Sam appears, begging his master to go to sleep, as a council has been scheduled for the next morning. Before saying goodbye for the night, Bilbo laments that he might not live to see what becomes of Frodo's story.

==Composition==
The chapter is the 13th of the published ''Fellowship'', but during writing it was "Chapter 12" of the work so far.<ref>{{HM|RC}}, p. lxxiii</ref> The "Chapter 12" was completed by the end of [[1938]].<ref>{{L|35}}</ref><ref group=note>In [[The Lord of the Rings Foreword]] (second edition, [[1966]]) Tolkien claims that "the tale had not yet reached the end of Book One" by [[1939]], but this seems to be a mistake while recollecting his writing process.</ref>

The chapter was revised around [[1940]]-[[1941]], when Tolkien decided that [[Aragorn]] was the [[Heir of Elendil]], and Bilbo's telling to Frodo of Aragorn's background was added at that stage; there are also early versions of the [[Song of Earendil]] (evolved from the earlier ''[[Errantry]]'').<ref>{{HM|RC}}, p. xxiii</ref>

{{references|n}}
[[Category:The Fellowship of the Ring chapters]]

Many Meetings

2023-08-01T00:31:52Z

Headrock: /* Summary */

{{chapter
| image=Donato Giancola - Rivendell - Recovery.jpeg
| title=Many Meetings
| book=The Fellowship of the Ring
| number=13
| event=[[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] wakes in [[Rivendell]]; he learns about the [[Nazgûl|Black Riders]].
| location=[[Rivendell]]
| date=[[24 October]] {{TA|3018|n}}
| previous=Flight to the Ford
| next=The Council of Elrond
}}

'''Many Meetings''' is the first chapter of the second book in ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.

In this chapter, Frodo awakes at [[Rivendell]] and is reunited with [[Gandalf]] and the other [[Hobbits]]. He is invited to a feast in his honor, where he meets [[Glóin]] and hears many news of the [[Dwarves]]. He also observes [[Arwen]]. After the meal, he is reunited with [[Bilbo]], who is still sick with longing for [[The One Ring]].

==Summary==

When [[Frodo Baggins]] awakes, he sees [[Gandalf]] for the first time in months. The old [[Wizard]] tells him that it is [[24 October]]; that he is in the house of [[Elrond]] at [[Rivendell]]; and that his other friends are fine.

Frodo cannot remember how he arrived at Rivendell. Gandalf explains that Frodo was beginning to fade due to the evil wound he'd suffered at [[Weathertop]]. Gandalf seems to know much about Frodo's journey thus far, explaining that Frodo talks in his sleep. Frodo asks Gandalf where he'd been all this time, but the only thing Gandalf is willing to reveal for now is that he was held captive.

Gandalf tells Frodo that war is about to break out; the [[Black Riders]] he'd encountered were in fact the Ringwraiths - the Nine kings of [[Men]] he had previously told Frodo about - who received rings from [[Sauron]] and became his servants. Gandalf says he had not learned that they were coming for Frodo until after he'd left [[The Shire]].

Frodo says they wouldn't have made it without Strider's help. He'd previously thought all Men were either kind and stupid like [[Barliman Butterbur]] or stupid and wicked like [[Bill Ferny]]. Gandalf stands up for Butterbur:

{{quote|He is wise enough on his own ground. He thinks less than he talks, and slower; yet he can see through a brick wall in time. But there are few left in Middle-earth like Aragorn son of Arathorn. The race of the Kings from over the Sea is nearly at an end. It may be that this War of the Ring will be their last adventure.|[[Gandalf]]}}

Gandalf continues to explain that the [[Rangers]] are the last remnants of the [[Men of the West]] in the North of Middle-earth, and have helped Gandalf before. He hopes they will help again in the future, given that [[The One Ring]]'s journey is not over yet. Frodo hopes he won't have to carry it any further.

Frodo discovers that his shoulder wound no longer hurts, and he can move his arm a little. Gandalf explains that Elrond has been tending to Frodo for days, and only managed to remove the splinter of the [[Morgul-knife]] from his shoulder the previous night. He says that had the shard not been removed, Frodo would have become a wraith himself, under the command of the Dark Lord. He marvels at the mettle and courage of [[Hobbits]], to have carried the shard for 17 days without succumbing.

Frodo says he could see the Ringwraiths' true forms while he was wearing the Ring, but wonders how everyone could see their black horses. Gandalf explains that the horses were real, bred for that purpose to serve Sauron. He lists the many different types of creatures under Sauron's command, saying that their numbers are growing.

Frodo asks whether Rivendell is safe. Gandalf replies that it would be the last place to fall, as the Elves will not submit to Sauron. He says that Rivendell is home to some of the [[Eldar|Elven-wise]], who live in both the seen and unseen worlds simultaneously, and can therefore fight the Ringwraiths.

Frodo surmises that the glowing white figure he saw behind the Ringwraiths at the [[Ford of Bruinen]] was [[Glorfindel]], as he appears on the "other side". Gandalf confirms this, calling him "one of the mighty of the [[Firstborn]], an Elf-lord of a house of princes". Nevertheless, he says that even Rivendell and other places of great power (including The Shire) would eventually come under siege if all else around them falls to Sauron.

Gandalf examines Frodo with his magical sight, and sees a hint of transparency about him. He wonders to himself what will become of Frodo, but guesses that he would not fall to evil. He hopes that Frodo would eventually become "like a glass filled with clear light for eyes to see that can."

Frodo asks Gandalf to explain what happened at the Ford. Gandalf retells the story more clearly, adding that Glorfindel had the others prepare flaming brands to drive the remaining Black Riders into the river, after the first three had drowned. Frodo inquires whether the Ringwraiths have been vanquished for good. Gandalf explains that only the horses perished; the Ringwraiths cannot be defeated so easily, but have gone away for now.

Frodo asks what caused the flood. Gandalf says that it was Elrond, commanding the river that runs through his domain. Gandalf adds that the waves taking the shape of white horses and riders was his own personal touch.

Gandalf tells Frodo that he will be treated to a great feast to celebrate this victory, honoring Frodo as the Ring-bearer and heir to [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]], the Ring-finder. Frodo wonders what happened to Bilbo, wishing he could tell him of the last month's adventures. He falls asleep.

Frodo wakes that evening feeling much better. He examines himself in a mirror, discovering that he had thinned. [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]] enters, quickly running to hold Frodo's hand, which he is glad to find warm for the first time in days. He raves about the Elves for a while until Frodo asks him to provide a tour of Rivendell. Sam takes Frodo to the gardens, where he is reunited with [[Peregrin Took|Pipping]] and [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]].

{{quote|Hurray! Here is our noble cousin! Make way for Frodo, Lord of the Ring!|[[Peregrin Took]]}}

Gandalf chides Pippin for that epithet, saying that only the Master of [[Barad-dûr|the Dark Tower of Mordor]] is the Lord of the Ring.

The group goes to the hall of Elrond's house, where they meet many other guests. Frodo observes Elrond for the first time, noting that he is both venerable and youthful. At the dinner table he also sees [[Arwen Undómiel]], Elrond's daughter, who is described to us as both queenly and thoughtful. The narrator explains that she had recently returned from [[Lothlórien|Lórien]], and that her brothers [[Elladan]] and [[Elrohir]] are currently away on an errand.

Next to Frodo at the table is a [[Dwarves|dwarf]] with a white beard. The dwarf introduces himself as [[Glóin]], and Frodo recognizes him as one of [[Thorin and Company|Thorin's twelve companions]]. Glóin is curious what brings four Hobbits to Rivendell, but correctly guesses that the matter should not yet be discussed. Similarly, he refuses to discuss what bring him to Rivendell, until the time is right.

From Glóin, Frodo learns that [[Grimbeorn the Old]], son of [[Beorn]], is now master of the lands between [[Mirkwood]] and the [[Misty Mountains]], and holds it fast against the [[Orcs]]. Glóin laments that the [[Beornings]] now charge a heavy toll for passage through their land, and do not like Dwarves. He also tells of the [[Men of Dale]], who've become strong allies to the Dwarves. [[Dale]] is now ruled by [[Brand]], grandson of [[Bard]].

With Frodo's permission, Glóin tells many stories about current events in the land of the Dwarves. He says that [[Dáin Ironfoot]] is still king of [[Erebor]], and that seven of the Dwarves that took the Mountain are still with him, including [[Bombur]] who has grown incredibly fat. However when Frodo inquires about the fates of [[Balin]], [[Ori]] and [[Óin]], Glóin regretfully says that he does not know; it is one of the reasons he came to Rivendell, to ask for counsel on the matter.

Glóin continues to extol the virtues of the new Dwarven kingdom under the Mountain: the Dwarves have exceeded their former skills in architecture, but have yet to be able to produce the same quality of weapons and armor as they did before the coming of [[Smaug]]. Frodo promises to visit Erebor if he gets the chance. Glóin mentions Bilbo, and Frodo says he wishes to see his uncle again more than anything.

After dinner, the guests are shown to the [[Hall of Fire]]. Frodo spots Bilbo sitting alone in the corner. Bilbo tells Frodo that he and Sam sat together by Frodo's side throughout his recovery. At Bilbo's bidding, messengers are sent to find [[Strider]] (whom he calls "the Dúnadan"), who was missing from the feast.

Bilbo says that his journey out of [[Hobbiton]] was aimless at first, but seemed to lead him always towards Rivendell. He then joined up with Dwarves and went back to Dale - his final journey - before returning to Rivendell again, where he stayed.

Bilbo speaks about The One Ring, lamenting that he didn't kept it and bring it to Rivendell himself, saving Frodo the trouble. He asks to see the Ring. Frodo discovers that the Elves had replaced its chain with a lighter, stronger one. He pulls out the Ring, but when Bilbo puts his hand out to take it, Frodo suddenly gets the urge to keep it away from Bilbo. For an instant he sees Bilbo as a gaunt, hungry creature, and feels a desire to strike him.

The hall suddenly goes quiet. Bilbo seems suddenly to understand the power of the Ring, and asks Frodo to put it away. He apologizes for having burdened Frodo with carrying on the adventure. Frodo puts the Ring away, and the hall is once again filled with music and merriment.

Frodo tells Bilbo many stories from The Shire. As they talk, Strider suddenly appears. Bilbo explains that the name he calls Strider - "Dúnadan" - means [[Man of the West]]. He asks Strider why he'd missed the feast, mentioning that Arwen was present. Strider says that Elladan and Elrohir had returned from their errand with important news, which he wanted to hear as soon as possible.

Bilbo asks for Strider's help in writing a song to cap the evening's celebration. While they discuss it, Frodo begins to lose himself in the music and singing of the Elves in the hall, as it carries him to sleep. He is awakened to hear the voice of Bilbo, who starts singing [[Song of Eärendil|his new song]]. The song is very long, and by the time it is over, Frodo sees that many Elves had gathered around to hear it.

An Elf named [[Lindir]] asks to hear the song again, but Bilbo is too tired to repeat it. Lindir says that Bilbo is never too tired to repeat his own songs, causing Bilbo to chastise him for not noticing that Strider had written several of the verses. Lindir claims that it is difficult for Elves to distinguish between two mortals, much to Bilbo's dismay.

{{quote|To sheep other sheep no doubt appear different. Or to shepherds. But Mortals have not been our study. We have other business.|[[Lindir]]}}

To Frodo, Bilbo admits to have written the entire song; Strider wanted nothing to do with writing songs about Eärendil in Elrond's house. Bilbo suggests going to talk in private, and they both turn to leave. As they exit the hall, one of the Elves begins to sing the hymn [[A Elbereth Gilthoniel]]. Frodo looks back into the hall, briefly seeing Arwen again, with Aragorn standing beside her; he appears to Frodo as though wearing Elven mail, with a star shining on his breast. Arwen looks at Frodo, and he is instantly enchanted.

Bilbo leads Frodo to his room, and they talk for hours about the beautiful things they had seen during their separate adventures. Their conversation is only interrupted when Sam appears, begging his master to go to sleep, as a council has been scheduled for the next morning. Before saying goodbye for the night, Bilbo laments that he might not live to see what becomes of Frodo's story.

==Composition==
The chapter is the 13th of the published ''Fellowship'', but during writing it was "Chapter 12" of the work so far.<ref>{{HM|RC}}, p. lxxiii</ref> The "Chapter 12" was completed by the end of [[1938]].<ref>{{L|35}}</ref><ref group=note>In [[The Lord of the Rings Foreword]] (second edition, [[1966]]) Tolkien claims that "the tale had not yet reached the end of Book One" by [[1939]], but this seems to be a mistake while recollecting his writing process.</ref>

The chapter was revised around [[1940]]-[[1941]], when Tolkien decided that [[Aragorn]] was the [[Heir of Elendil]], and Bilbo's telling to Frodo of Aragorn's background was added at that stage; there are also early versions of the [[Song of Earendil]] (evolved from the earlier ''[[Errantry]]'').<ref>{{HM|RC}}, p. xxiii</ref>

{{references|n}}
[[Category:The Fellowship of the Ring chapters]]

Many Meetings

2023-08-01T00:31:26Z

Headrock: /* Summary */

{{chapter
| image=Donato Giancola - Rivendell - Recovery.jpeg
| title=Many Meetings
| book=The Fellowship of the Ring
| number=13
| event=[[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] wakes in [[Rivendell]]; he learns about the [[Nazgûl|Black Riders]].
| location=[[Rivendell]]
| date=[[24 October]] {{TA|3018|n}}
| previous=Flight to the Ford
| next=The Council of Elrond
}}

'''Many Meetings''' is the first chapter of the second book in ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.

In this chapter, Frodo awakes at [[Rivendell]] and is reunited with [[Gandalf]] and the other [[Hobbits]]. He is invited to a feast in his honor, where he meets [[Glóin]] and hears many news of the [[Dwarves]]. He also observes [[Arwen]]. After the meal, he is reunited with [[Bilbo]], who is still sick with longing for [[The One Ring]].

==Summary==

When [[Frodo Baggins]] awakes, he sees [[Gandalf]] for the first time in months. The old [[Wizard]] tells him that it is [[24 October]]; that he is in the house of [[Elrond]] at [[Rivendell]]; and that his other friends are fine.

Frodo cannot remember how he arrived at Rivendell. Gandalf explains that Frodo was beginning to fade due to the evil wound he'd suffered at [[Weathertop]]. Gandalf seems to know much about Frodo's journey thus far, explaining that Frodo talks in his sleep. Frodo asks Gandalf where he'd been all this time, but the only thing Gandalf is willing to reveal for now is that he was held captive.

Gandalf tells Frodo that war is about to break out; the [[Black Riders]] he'd encountered were in fact the Ringwraiths - the Nine kings of [[Men]] he had previously told Frodo about - who received rings from [[Sauron]] and became his servants. Gandalf says he had not learned that they were coming for Frodo until after he'd left [[The Shire]].

Frodo says they wouldn't have made it without Strider's help. He'd previously thought all Men were either kind and stupid like [[Barliman Butterbur]] or stupid and wicked like [[Bill Ferny]]. Gandalf stands up for Butterbur:

{{quote|He is wise enough on his own ground. He thinks less than he talks, and slower; yet he can see through a brick wall in time. But there are few left in Middle-earth like Aragorn son of Arathorn. The race of the Kings from over the Sea is nearly at an end. It may be that this War of the Ring will be their last adventure.|[[Gandalf]]}}

Gandalf continues to explain that the [[Rangers]] are the last remnants of the [[Men of the West]] in the North of Middle-earth, and have helped Gandalf before. He hopes they will help again in the future, given that [[The One Ring]]'s journey is not over yet. Frodo hopes he won't have to carry it any further.

Frodo discovers that his shoulder wound no longer hurts, and he can move his arm a little. Gandalf explains that Elrond has been tending to Frodo for days, and only managed to remove the splinter of the [[Morgul-knife]] from his shoulder the previous night. He says that had the shard not been removed, Frodo would have become a wraith himself, under the command of the Dark Lord. He marvels at the mettle and courage of [[Hobbits]], to have carried the shard for 17 days without succumbing.

Frodo says he could see the Ringwraiths' true forms while he was wearing the Ring, but wonders how everyone could see their black horses. Gandalf explains that the horses were real, bred for that purpose to serve Sauron. He lists the many different types of creatures under Sauron's command, saying that their numbers are growing.

Frodo asks whether Rivendell is safe. Gandalf replies that it would be the last place to fall, as the Elves will not submit to Sauron. He says that Rivendell is home to some of the [[Eldar|Elven-wise]], who live in both the seen and unseen worlds simultaneously, and can therefore fight the Ringwraiths.

Frodo surmises that the glowing white figure he saw behind the Ringwraiths at the [[Ford of Bruinen]] was [[Glorfindel]], as he appears on the "other side". Gandalf confirms this, calling him "one of the mighty of the [[Firstborn]], an Elf-lord of a house of princes". Nevertheless, he says that even Rivendell and other places of great power (including The Shire) would eventually come under siege if all else around them falls to Sauron.

Gandalf examines Frodo with his magical sight, and sees a hint of transparency about him. He wonders to himself what will become of Frodo, but guesses that he would not fall to evil. He hopes that Frodo would eventually become "like a glass filled with clear light for eyes to see that can."

Frodo asks Gandalf to explain what happened at the Ford. Gandalf retells the story more clearly, adding that Glorfindel had the others prepare flaming brands to drive the remaining Black Riders into the river, after the first three had drowned. Frodo inquires whether the Ringwraiths have been vanquished for good. Gandalf explains that only the horses perished; the Ringwraiths cannot be defeated so easily, but have gone away for now.

Frodo asks what caused the flood. Gandalf says that it was Elrond, commanding the river that runs through his domain. Gandalf adds that the waves taking the shape of white horses and riders was his own personal touch.

Gandalf tells Frodo that he will be treated to a great feast to celebrate this victory, honoring Frodo as the Ring-bearer and heir to [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]], the Ring-finder. Frodo wonders what happened to Bilbo, wishing he could tell him of the last month's adventures. He falls asleep.

Frodo wakes that evening feeling much better. He examines himself in a mirror, discovering that he had thinned. [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]] enters, quickly running to hold Frodo's hand, which he is glad to find warm for the first time in days. He raves about the Elves for a while until Frodo asks him to provide a tour of Rivendell. Sam takes Frodo to the gardens, where he is reunited with [[Peregrin Took|Pipping]] and [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]].

{{quote|Hurray! Here is our noble cousin! Make way for Frodo, Lord of the Ring!|[[Peregrin Took]]}}

Gandalf chides Pippin for that epithet, saying that only the Master of [[Barad-dûr|the Dark Tower of Mordor]] is the Lord of the Ring.

The group goes to the hall of Elrond's house, where they meet many other guests. Frodo observes Elrond for the first time, noting that he is both venerable and youthful. At the dinner table he also sees [[Arwen Undómiel]], Elrond's daughter, who is described to us as both queenly and thoughtful. The narrator explains that she had recently returned from [[Lothórien|Lórien]], and that her brothers [[Elladan]] and [[Elrohir]] are currently away on an errand.

Next to Frodo at the table is a [[Dwarves|dwarf]] with a white beard. The dwarf introduces himself as [[Glóin]], and Frodo recognizes him as one of [[Thorin and Company|Thorin's twelve companions]]. Glóin is curious what brings four Hobbits to Rivendell, but correctly guesses that the matter should not yet be discussed. Similarly, he refuses to discuss what bring him to Rivendell, until the time is right.

From Glóin, Frodo learns that [[Grimbeorn the Old]], son of [[Beorn]], is now master of the lands between [[Mirkwood]] and the [[Misty Mountains]], and holds it fast against the [[Orcs]]. Glóin laments that the [[Beornings]] now charge a heavy toll for passage through their land, and do not like Dwarves. He also tells of the [[Men of Dale]], who've become strong allies to the Dwarves. [[Dale]] is now ruled by [[Brand]], grandson of [[Bard]].

With Frodo's permission, Glóin tells many stories about current events in the land of the Dwarves. He says that [[Dáin Ironfoot]] is still king of [[Erebor]], and that seven of the Dwarves that took the Mountain are still with him, including [[Bombur]] who has grown incredibly fat. However when Frodo inquires about the fates of [[Balin]], [[Ori]] and [[Óin]], Glóin regretfully says that he does not know; it is one of the reasons he came to Rivendell, to ask for counsel on the matter.

Glóin continues to extol the virtues of the new Dwarven kingdom under the Mountain: the Dwarves have exceeded their former skills in architecture, but have yet to be able to produce the same quality of weapons and armor as they did before the coming of [[Smaug]]. Frodo promises to visit Erebor if he gets the chance. Glóin mentions Bilbo, and Frodo says he wishes to see his uncle again more than anything.

After dinner, the guests are shown to the [[Hall of Fire]]. Frodo spots Bilbo sitting alone in the corner. Bilbo tells Frodo that he and Sam sat together by Frodo's side throughout his recovery. At Bilbo's bidding, messengers are sent to find [[Strider]] (whom he calls "the Dúnadan"), who was missing from the feast.

Bilbo says that his journey out of [[Hobbiton]] was aimless at first, but seemed to lead him always towards Rivendell. He then joined up with Dwarves and went back to Dale - his final journey - before returning to Rivendell again, where he stayed.

Bilbo speaks about The One Ring, lamenting that he didn't kept it and bring it to Rivendell himself, saving Frodo the trouble. He asks to see the Ring. Frodo discovers that the Elves had replaced its chain with a lighter, stronger one. He pulls out the Ring, but when Bilbo puts his hand out to take it, Frodo suddenly gets the urge to keep it away from Bilbo. For an instant he sees Bilbo as a gaunt, hungry creature, and feels a desire to strike him.

The hall suddenly goes quiet. Bilbo seems suddenly to understand the power of the Ring, and asks Frodo to put it away. He apologizes for having burdened Frodo with carrying on the adventure. Frodo puts the Ring away, and the hall is once again filled with music and merriment.

Frodo tells Bilbo many stories from The Shire. As they talk, Strider suddenly appears. Bilbo explains that the name he calls Strider - "Dúnadan" - means [[Man of the West]]. He asks Strider why he'd missed the feast, mentioning that Arwen was present. Strider says that Elladan and Elrohir had returned from their errand with important news, which he wanted to hear as soon as possible.

Bilbo asks for Strider's help in writing a song to cap the evening's celebration. While they discuss it, Frodo begins to lose himself in the music and singing of the Elves in the hall, as it carries him to sleep. He is awakened to hear the voice of Bilbo, who starts singing [[Song of Eärendil|his new song]]. The song is very long, and by the time it is over, Frodo sees that many Elves had gathered around to hear it.

An Elf named [[Lindir]] asks to hear the song again, but Bilbo is too tired to repeat it. Lindir says that Bilbo is never too tired to repeat his own songs, causing Bilbo to chastise him for not noticing that Strider had written several of the verses. Lindir claims that it is difficult for Elves to distinguish between two mortals, much to Bilbo's dismay.

{{quote|To sheep other sheep no doubt appear different. Or to shepherds. But Mortals have not been our study. We have other business.|[[Lindir]]}}

To Frodo, Bilbo admits to have written the entire song; Strider wanted nothing to do with writing songs about Eärendil in Elrond's house. Bilbo suggests going to talk in private, and they both turn to leave. As they exit the hall, one of the Elves begins to sing the hymn [[A Elbereth Gilthoniel]]. Frodo looks back into the hall, briefly seeing Arwen again, with Aragorn standing beside her; he appears to Frodo as though wearing Elven mail, with a star shining on his breast. Arwen looks at Frodo, and he is instantly enchanted.

Bilbo leads Frodo to his room, and they talk for hours about the beautiful things they had seen during their separate adventures. Their conversation is only interrupted when Sam appears, begging his master to go to sleep, as a council has been scheduled for the next morning. Before saying goodbye for the night, Bilbo laments that he might not live to see what becomes of Frodo's story.

==Composition==
The chapter is the 13th of the published ''Fellowship'', but during writing it was "Chapter 12" of the work so far.<ref>{{HM|RC}}, p. lxxiii</ref> The "Chapter 12" was completed by the end of [[1938]].<ref>{{L|35}}</ref><ref group=note>In [[The Lord of the Rings Foreword]] (second edition, [[1966]]) Tolkien claims that "the tale had not yet reached the end of Book One" by [[1939]], but this seems to be a mistake while recollecting his writing process.</ref>

The chapter was revised around [[1940]]-[[1941]], when Tolkien decided that [[Aragorn]] was the [[Heir of Elendil]], and Bilbo's telling to Frodo of Aragorn's background was added at that stage; there are also early versions of the [[Song of Earendil]] (evolved from the earlier ''[[Errantry]]'').<ref>{{HM|RC}}, p. xxiii</ref>

{{references|n}}
[[Category:The Fellowship of the Ring chapters]]

Many Meetings

2023-08-01T00:30:45Z

Headrock: /* Summary */ New link.

{{chapter
| image=Donato Giancola - Rivendell - Recovery.jpeg
| title=Many Meetings
| book=The Fellowship of the Ring
| number=13
| event=[[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] wakes in [[Rivendell]]; he learns about the [[Nazgûl|Black Riders]].
| location=[[Rivendell]]
| date=[[24 October]] {{TA|3018|n}}
| previous=Flight to the Ford
| next=The Council of Elrond
}}

'''Many Meetings''' is the first chapter of the second book in ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.

In this chapter, Frodo awakes at [[Rivendell]] and is reunited with [[Gandalf]] and the other [[Hobbits]]. He is invited to a feast in his honor, where he meets [[Glóin]] and hears many news of the [[Dwarves]]. He also observes [[Arwen]]. After the meal, he is reunited with [[Bilbo]], who is still sick with longing for [[The One Ring]].

==Summary==

When [[Frodo Baggins]] awakes, he sees [[Gandalf]] for the first time in months. The old [[Wizard]] tells him that it is [[24 October]]; that he is in the house of [[Elrond]] at [[Rivendell]]; and that his other friends are fine.

Frodo cannot remember how he arrived at Rivendell. Gandalf explains that Frodo was beginning to fade due to the evil wound he'd suffered at [[Weathertop]]. Gandalf seems to know much about Frodo's journey thus far, explaining that Frodo talks in his sleep. Frodo asks Gandalf where he'd been all this time, but the only thing Gandalf is willing to reveal for now is that he was held captive.

Gandalf tells Frodo that war is about to break out; the [[Black Riders]] he'd encountered were in fact the Ringwraiths - the Nine kings of [[Men]] he had previously told Frodo about - who received rings from [[Sauron]] and became his servants. Gandalf says he had not learned that they were coming for Frodo until after he'd left [[The Shire]].

Frodo says they wouldn't have made it without Strider's help. He'd previously thought all Men were either kind and stupid like [[Barliman Butterbur]] or stupid and wicked like [[Bill Ferny]]. Gandalf stands up for Butterbur:

{{quote|He is wise enough on his own ground. He thinks less than he talks, and slower; yet he can see through a brick wall in time. But there are few left in Middle-earth like Aragorn son of Arathorn. The race of the Kings from over the Sea is nearly at an end. It may be that this War of the Ring will be their last adventure.|[[Gandalf]]}}

Gandalf continues to explain that the [[Rangers]] are the last remnants of the [[Men of the West]] in the North of Middle-earth, and have helped Gandalf before. He hopes they will help again in the future, given that [[The One Ring]]'s journey is not over yet. Frodo hopes he won't have to carry it any further.

Frodo discovers that his shoulder wound no longer hurts, and he can move his arm a little. Gandalf explains that Elrond has been tending to Frodo for days, and only managed to remove the splinter of the [[Morgul-knife]] from his shoulder the previous night. He says that had the shard not been removed, Frodo would have become a wraith himself, under the command of the Dark Lord. He marvels at the mettle and courage of [[Hobbits]], to have carried the shard for 17 days without succumbing.

Frodo says he could see the Ringwraiths' true forms while he was wearing the Ring, but wonders how everyone could see their black horses. Gandalf explains that the horses were real, bred for that purpose to serve Sauron. He lists the many different types of creatures under Sauron's command, saying that their numbers are growing.

Frodo asks whether Rivendell is safe. Gandalf replies that it would be the last place to fall, as the Elves will not submit to Sauron. He says that Rivendell is home to some of the [[Eldar|Elven-wise]], who live in both the seen and unseen worlds simultaneously, and can therefore fight the Ringwraiths.

Frodo surmises that the glowing white figure he saw behind the Ringwraiths at the [[Ford of Bruinen]] was [[Glorfindel]], as he appears on the "other side". Gandalf confirms this, calling him "one of the mighty of the [[Firstborn]], an Elf-lord of a house of princes". Nevertheless, he says that even Rivendell and other places of great power (including The Shire) would eventually come under siege if all else around them falls to Sauron.

Gandalf examines Frodo with his magical sight, and sees a hint of transparency about him. He wonders to himself what will become of Frodo, but guesses that he would not fall to evil. He hopes that Frodo would eventually become "like a glass filled with clear light for eyes to see that can."

Frodo asks Gandalf to explain what happened at the Ford. Gandalf retells the story more clearly, adding that Glorfindel had the others prepare flaming brands to drive the remaining Black Riders into the river, after the first three had drowned. Frodo inquires whether the Ringwraiths have been vanquished for good. Gandalf explains that only the horses perished; the Ringwraiths cannot be defeated so easily, but have gone away for now.

Frodo asks what caused the flood. Gandalf says that it was Elrond, commanding the river that runs through his domain. Gandalf adds that the waves taking the shape of white horses and riders was his own personal touch.

Gandalf tells Frodo that he will be treated to a great feast to celebrate this victory, honoring Frodo as the Ring-bearer and heir to [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]], the Ring-finder. Frodo wonders what happened to Bilbo, wishing he could tell him of the last month's adventures. He falls asleep.

Frodo wakes that evening feeling much better. He examines himself in a mirror, discovering that he had thinned. [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]] enters, quickly running to hold Frodo's hand, which he is glad to find warm for the first time in days. He raves about the Elves for a while until Frodo asks him to provide a tour of Rivendell. Sam takes Frodo to the gardens, where he is reunited with [[Peregrin Took|Pipping]] and [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]].

{{quote|Hurray! Here is our noble cousin! Make way for Frodo, Lord of the Ring!|[[Peregrin Took]]}}

Gandalf chides Pippin for that epithet, saying that only the Master of [[Barad-dûr|the Dark Tower of Mordor]] is the Lord of the Ring.

The group goes to the hall of Elrond's house, where they meet many other guests. Frodo observes Elrond for the first time, noting that he is both venerable and youthful. At the dinner table he also sees [[Arwen Undómiel]], Elrond's daughter, who is described to us as both queenly and thoughtful. The narrator explains that she had recently returned from [[lothórien|Lórien]], and that her brothers [[Elladan]] and [[Elrohir]] are currently away on an errand.

Next to Frodo at the table is a [[Dwarves|dwarf]] with a white beard. The dwarf introduces himself as [[Glóin]], and Frodo recognizes him as one of [[Thorin and Company|Thorin's twelve companions]]. Glóin is curious what brings four Hobbits to Rivendell, but correctly guesses that the matter should not yet be discussed. Similarly, he refuses to discuss what bring him to Rivendell, until the time is right.

From Glóin, Frodo learns that [[Grimbeorn the Old]], son of [[Beorn]], is now master of the lands between [[Mirkwood]] and the [[Misty Mountains]], and holds it fast against the [[Orcs]]. Glóin laments that the [[Beornings]] now charge a heavy toll for passage through their land, and do not like Dwarves. He also tells of the [[Men of Dale]], who've become strong allies to the Dwarves. [[Dale]] is now ruled by [[Brand]], grandson of [[Bard]].

With Frodo's permission, Glóin tells many stories about current events in the land of the Dwarves. He says that [[Dáin Ironfoot]] is still king of [[Erebor]], and that seven of the Dwarves that took the Mountain are still with him, including [[Bombur]] who has grown incredibly fat. However when Frodo inquires about the fates of [[Balin]], [[Ori]] and [[Óin]], Glóin regretfully says that he does not know; it is one of the reasons he came to Rivendell, to ask for counsel on the matter.

Glóin continues to extol the virtues of the new Dwarven kingdom under the Mountain: the Dwarves have exceeded their former skills in architecture, but have yet to be able to produce the same quality of weapons and armor as they did before the coming of [[Smaug]]. Frodo promises to visit Erebor if he gets the chance. Glóin mentions Bilbo, and Frodo says he wishes to see his uncle again more than anything.

After dinner, the guests are shown to the [[Hall of Fire]]. Frodo spots Bilbo sitting alone in the corner. Bilbo tells Frodo that he and Sam sat together by Frodo's side throughout his recovery. At Bilbo's bidding, messengers are sent to find [[Strider]] (whom he calls "the Dúnadan"), who was missing from the feast.

Bilbo says that his journey out of [[Hobbiton]] was aimless at first, but seemed to lead him always towards Rivendell. He then joined up with Dwarves and went back to Dale - his final journey - before returning to Rivendell again, where he stayed.

Bilbo speaks about The One Ring, lamenting that he didn't kept it and bring it to Rivendell himself, saving Frodo the trouble. He asks to see the Ring. Frodo discovers that the Elves had replaced its chain with a lighter, stronger one. He pulls out the Ring, but when Bilbo puts his hand out to take it, Frodo suddenly gets the urge to keep it away from Bilbo. For an instant he sees Bilbo as a gaunt, hungry creature, and feels a desire to strike him.

The hall suddenly goes quiet. Bilbo seems suddenly to understand the power of the Ring, and asks Frodo to put it away. He apologizes for having burdened Frodo with carrying on the adventure. Frodo puts the Ring away, and the hall is once again filled with music and merriment.

Frodo tells Bilbo many stories from The Shire. As they talk, Strider suddenly appears. Bilbo explains that the name he calls Strider - "Dúnadan" - means [[Man of the West]]. He asks Strider why he'd missed the feast, mentioning that Arwen was present. Strider says that Elladan and Elrohir had returned from their errand with important news, which he wanted to hear as soon as possible.

Bilbo asks for Strider's help in writing a song to cap the evening's celebration. While they discuss it, Frodo begins to lose himself in the music and singing of the Elves in the hall, as it carries him to sleep. He is awakened to hear the voice of Bilbo, who starts singing [[Song of Eärendil|his new song]]. The song is very long, and by the time it is over, Frodo sees that many Elves had gathered around to hear it.

An Elf named [[Lindir]] asks to hear the song again, but Bilbo is too tired to repeat it. Lindir says that Bilbo is never too tired to repeat his own songs, causing Bilbo to chastise him for not noticing that Strider had written several of the verses. Lindir claims that it is difficult for Elves to distinguish between two mortals, much to Bilbo's dismay.

{{quote|To sheep other sheep no doubt appear different. Or to shepherds. But Mortals have not been our study. We have other business.|[[Lindir]]}}

To Frodo, Bilbo admits to have written the entire song; Strider wanted nothing to do with writing songs about Eärendil in Elrond's house. Bilbo suggests going to talk in private, and they both turn to leave. As they exit the hall, one of the Elves begins to sing the hymn [[A Elbereth Gilthoniel]]. Frodo looks back into the hall, briefly seeing Arwen again, with Aragorn standing beside her; he appears to Frodo as though wearing Elven mail, with a star shining on his breast. Arwen looks at Frodo, and he is instantly enchanted.

Bilbo leads Frodo to his room, and they talk for hours about the beautiful things they had seen during their separate adventures. Their conversation is only interrupted when Sam appears, begging his master to go to sleep, as a council has been scheduled for the next morning. Before saying goodbye for the night, Bilbo laments that he might not live to see what becomes of Frodo's story.

==Composition==
The chapter is the 13th of the published ''Fellowship'', but during writing it was "Chapter 12" of the work so far.<ref>{{HM|RC}}, p. lxxiii</ref> The "Chapter 12" was completed by the end of [[1938]].<ref>{{L|35}}</ref><ref group=note>In [[The Lord of the Rings Foreword]] (second edition, [[1966]]) Tolkien claims that "the tale had not yet reached the end of Book One" by [[1939]], but this seems to be a mistake while recollecting his writing process.</ref>

The chapter was revised around [[1940]]-[[1941]], when Tolkien decided that [[Aragorn]] was the [[Heir of Elendil]], and Bilbo's telling to Frodo of Aragorn's background was added at that stage; there are also early versions of the [[Song of Earendil]] (evolved from the earlier ''[[Errantry]]'').<ref>{{HM|RC}}, p. xxiii</ref>

{{references|n}}
[[Category:The Fellowship of the Ring chapters]]

Many Meetings

2023-08-01T00:21:44Z

Headrock: /* Summary */

{{chapter
| image=Donato Giancola - Rivendell - Recovery.jpeg
| title=Many Meetings
| book=The Fellowship of the Ring
| number=13
| event=[[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] wakes in [[Rivendell]]; he learns about the [[Nazgûl|Black Riders]].
| location=[[Rivendell]]
| date=[[24 October]] {{TA|3018|n}}
| previous=Flight to the Ford
| next=The Council of Elrond
}}

'''Many Meetings''' is the first chapter of the second book in ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.

In this chapter, Frodo awakes at [[Rivendell]] and is reunited with [[Gandalf]] and the other [[Hobbits]]. He is invited to a feast in his honor, where he meets [[Glóin]] and hears many news of the [[Dwarves]]. He also observes [[Arwen]]. After the meal, he is reunited with [[Bilbo]], who is still sick with longing for [[The One Ring]].

==Summary==

When [[Frodo Baggins]] awakes, he sees [[Gandalf]] for the first time in months. The old [[Wizard]] tells him that it is [[24 October]]; that he is in the house of [[Elrond]] at [[Rivendell]]; and that his other friends are fine.

Frodo cannot remember how he arrived at Rivendell. Gandalf explains that Frodo was beginning to fade due to the evil wound he'd suffered at [[Weathertop]]. Gandalf seems to know much about Frodo's journey thus far, explaining that Frodo talks in his sleep. Frodo asks Gandalf where he'd been all this time, but the only thing Gandalf is willing to reveal for now is that he was held captive.

Gandalf tells Frodo that war is about to break out; the [[Black Riders]] he'd encountered were in fact the Ringwraiths - the Nine kings of [[Men]] he had previously told Frodo about - who received rings from [[Sauron]] and became his servants. Gandalf says he had not learned that they were coming for Frodo until after he'd left [[The Shire]].

Frodo says they wouldn't have made it without Strider's help. He'd previously thought all Men were either kind and stupid like [[Barliman Butterbur]] or stupid and wicked like [[Bill Ferny]]. Gandalf stands up for Butterbur:

{{quote|He is wise enough on his own ground. He thinks less than he talks, and slower; yet he can see through a brick wall in time. But there are few left in Middle-earth like Aragorn son of Arathorn. The race of the Kings from over the Sea is nearly at an end. It may be that this War of the Ring will be their last adventure.|[[Gandalf]]}}

Gandalf continues to explain that the [[Rangers]] are the last remnants of the [[Men of the West]] in the North of Middle-earth, and have helped Gandalf before. He hopes they will help again in the future, given that [[The One Ring]]'s journey is not over yet. Frodo hopes he won't have to carry it any further.

Frodo discovers that his shoulder wound no longer hurts, and he can move his arm a little. Gandalf explains that Elrond has been tending to Frodo for days, and only managed to remove the splinter of the [[Morgul-knife]] from his shoulder the previous night. He says that had the shard not been removed, Frodo would have become a wraith himself, under the command of the Dark Lord. He marvels at the mettle and courage of [[Hobbits]], to have carried the shard for 17 days without succumbing.

Frodo says he could see the Ringwraiths' true forms while he was wearing the Ring, but wonders how everyone could see their black horses. Gandalf explains that the horses were real, bred for that purpose to serve Sauron. He lists the many different types of creatures under Sauron's command, saying that their numbers are growing.

Frodo asks whether Rivendell is safe. Gandalf replies that it would be the last place to fall, as the Elves will not submit to Sauron. He says that Rivendell is home to some of the [[Eldar|Elven-wise]], who live in both the seen and unseen worlds simultaneously, and can therefore fight the Ringwraiths.

Frodo surmises that the glowing white figure he saw behind the Ringwraiths at the [[Ford of Bruinen]] was [[Glorfindel]], as he appears on the "other side". Gandalf confirms this, calling him "one of the mighty of the [[Firstborn]], an Elf-lord of a house of princes". Nevertheless, he says that even Rivendell and other places of great power (including The Shire) would eventually come under siege if all else around them falls to Sauron.

Gandalf examines Frodo with his magical sight, and sees a hint of transparency about him. He wonders to himself what will become of Frodo, but guesses that he would not fall to evil. He hopes that Frodo would eventually become "like a glass filled with clear light for eyes to see that can."

Frodo asks Gandalf to explain what happened at the Ford. Gandalf retells the story more clearly, adding that Glorfindel had the others prepare flaming brands to drive the remaining Black Riders into the river, after the first three had drowned. Frodo inquires whether the Ringwraiths have been vanquished for good. Gandalf explains that only the horses perished; the Ringwraiths cannot be defeated so easily, but have gone away for now.

Frodo asks what caused the flood. Gandalf says that it was Elrond, commanding the river that runs through his domain. Gandalf adds that the waves taking the shape of white horses and riders was his own personal touch.

Gandalf tells Frodo that he will be treated to a great feast to celebrate this victory, honoring Frodo as the Ring-bearer and heir to [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]], the Ring-finder. Frodo wonders what happened to Bilbo, wishing he could tell him of the last month's adventures. He falls asleep.

Frodo wakes that evening feeling much better. He examines himself in a mirror, discovering that he had thinned. [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]] enters, quickly running to hold Frodo's hand, which he is glad to find warm for the first time in days. He raves about the Elves for a while until Frodo asks him to provide a tour of Rivendell. Sam takes Frodo to the gardens, where he is reunited with [[Peregrin Took|Pipping]] and [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]].

{{quote|Hurray! Here is our noble cousin! Make way for Frodo, Lord of the Ring!|[[Peregrin Took]]}}

Gandalf chides Pippin for that epithet, saying that only the Master of the Dark Tower Lord of Mordor is the Lord of the Ring.

The group goes to the hall of Elrond's house, where they meet many other guests. Frodo observes Elrond for the first time, noting that he is both venerable and youthful. At the dinner table he also sees [[Arwen Undómiel]], Elrond's daughter, who is described to us as both queenly and thoughtful. The narrator explains that she had recently returned from [[lothórien|Lórien]], and that her brothers [[Elladan]] and [[Elrohir]] are currently away on an errand.

Next to Frodo at the table is a [[Dwarves|dwarf]] with a white beard. The dwarf introduces himself as [[Glóin]], and Frodo recognizes him as one of [[Thorin and Company|Thorin's twelve companions]]. Glóin is curious what brings four Hobbits to Rivendell, but correctly guesses that the matter should not yet be discussed. Similarly, he refuses to discuss what bring him to Rivendell, until the time is right.

From Glóin, Frodo learns that [[Grimbeorn the Old]], son of [[Beorn]], is now master of the lands between [[Mirkwood]] and the [[Misty Mountains]], and holds it fast against the [[Orcs]]. Glóin laments that the [[Beornings]] now charge a heavy toll for passage through their land, and do not like Dwarves. He also tells of the [[Men of Dale]], who've become strong allies to the Dwarves. [[Dale]] is now ruled by [[Brand]], grandson of [[Bard]].

With Frodo's permission, Glóin tells many stories about current events in the land of the Dwarves. He says that [[Dáin Ironfoot]] is still king of [[Erebor]], and that seven of the Dwarves that took the Mountain are still with him, including [[Bombur]] who has grown incredibly fat. However when Frodo inquires about the fates of [[Balin]], [[Ori]] and [[Óin]], Glóin regretfully says that he does not know; it is one of the reasons he came to Rivendell, to ask for counsel on the matter.

Glóin continues to extol the virtues of the new Dwarven kingdom under the Mountain: the Dwarves have exceeded their former skills in architecture, but have yet to be able to produce the same quality of weapons and armor as they did before the coming of [[Smaug]]. Frodo promises to visit Erebor if he gets the chance. Glóin mentions Bilbo, and Frodo says he wishes to see his uncle again more than anything.

After dinner, the guests are shown to the [[Hall of Fire]]. Frodo spots Bilbo sitting alone in the corner. Bilbo tells Frodo that he and Sam sat together by Frodo's side throughout his recovery. At Bilbo's bidding, messengers are sent to find [[Strider]] (whom he calls "the Dúnadan"), who was missing from the feast.

Bilbo says that his journey out of [[Hobbiton]] was aimless at first, but seemed to lead him always towards Rivendell. He then joined up with Dwarves and went back to Dale - his final journey - before returning to Rivendell again, where he stayed.

Bilbo speaks about The One Ring, lamenting that he didn't kept it and bring it to Rivendell himself, saving Frodo the trouble. He asks to see the Ring. Frodo discovers that the Elves had replaced its chain with a lighter, stronger one. He pulls out the Ring, but when Bilbo puts his hand out to take it, Frodo suddenly gets the urge to keep it away from Bilbo. For an instant he sees Bilbo as a gaunt, hungry creature, and feels a desire to strike him.

The hall suddenly goes quiet. Bilbo seems suddenly to understand the power of the Ring, and asks Frodo to put it away. He apologizes for having burdened Frodo with carrying on the adventure. Frodo puts the Ring away, and the hall is once again filled with music and merriment.

Frodo tells Bilbo many stories from The Shire. As they talk, Strider suddenly appears. Bilbo explains that the name he calls Strider - "Dúnadan" - means [[Man of the West]]. He asks Strider why he'd missed the feast, mentioning that Arwen was present. Strider says that Elladan and Elrohir had returned from their errand with important news, which he wanted to hear as soon as possible.

Bilbo asks for Strider's help in writing a song to cap the evening's celebration. While they discuss it, Frodo begins to lose himself in the music and singing of the Elves in the hall, as it carries him to sleep. He is awakened to hear the voice of Bilbo, who starts singing [[Song of Eärendil|his new song]]. The song is very long, and by the time it is over, Frodo sees that many Elves had gathered around to hear it.

An Elf named [[Lindir]] asks to hear the song again, but Bilbo is too tired to repeat it. Lindir says that Bilbo is never too tired to repeat his own songs, causing Bilbo to chastise him for not noticing that Strider had written several of the verses. Lindir claims that it is difficult for Elves to distinguish between two mortals, much to Bilbo's dismay.

{{quote|To sheep other sheep no doubt appear different. Or to shepherds. But Mortals have not been our study. We have other business.|[[Lindir]]}}

To Frodo, Bilbo admits to have written the entire song; Strider wanted nothing to do with writing songs about Eärendil in Elrond's house. Bilbo suggests going to talk in private, and they both turn to leave. As they exit the hall, one of the Elves begins to sing the hymn [[A Elbereth Gilthoniel]]. Frodo looks back into the hall, briefly seeing Arwen again, with Aragorn standing beside her; he appears to Frodo as though wearing Elven mail, with a star shining on his breast. Arwen looks at Frodo, and he is instantly enchanted.

Bilbo leads Frodo to his room, and they talk for hours about the beautiful things they had seen during their separate adventures. Their conversation is only interrupted when Sam appears, begging his master to go to sleep, as a council has been scheduled for the next morning. Before saying goodbye for the night, Bilbo laments that he might not live to see what becomes of Frodo's story.

==Composition==
The chapter is the 13th of the published ''Fellowship'', but during writing it was "Chapter 12" of the work so far.<ref>{{HM|RC}}, p. lxxiii</ref> The "Chapter 12" was completed by the end of [[1938]].<ref>{{L|35}}</ref><ref group=note>In [[The Lord of the Rings Foreword]] (second edition, [[1966]]) Tolkien claims that "the tale had not yet reached the end of Book One" by [[1939]], but this seems to be a mistake while recollecting his writing process.</ref>

The chapter was revised around [[1940]]-[[1941]], when Tolkien decided that [[Aragorn]] was the [[Heir of Elendil]], and Bilbo's telling to Frodo of Aragorn's background was added at that stage; there are also early versions of the [[Song of Earendil]] (evolved from the earlier ''[[Errantry]]'').<ref>{{HM|RC}}, p. xxiii</ref>

{{references|n}}
[[Category:The Fellowship of the Ring chapters]]

Many Meetings

2023-08-01T00:20:20Z

Headrock: /* Summary */ Cut something out and things no longer made sense.

{{chapter
| image=Donato Giancola - Rivendell - Recovery.jpeg
| title=Many Meetings
| book=The Fellowship of the Ring
| number=13
| event=[[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] wakes in [[Rivendell]]; he learns about the [[Nazgûl|Black Riders]].
| location=[[Rivendell]]
| date=[[24 October]] {{TA|3018|n}}
| previous=Flight to the Ford
| next=The Council of Elrond
}}

'''Many Meetings''' is the first chapter of the second book in ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.

In this chapter, Frodo awakes at [[Rivendell]] and is reunited with [[Gandalf]] and the other [[Hobbits]]. He is invited to a feast in his honor, where he meets [[Glóin]] and hears many news of the [[Dwarves]]. He also observes [[Arwen]]. After the meal, he is reunited with [[Bilbo]], who is still sick with longing for [[The One Ring]].

==Summary==

When [[Frodo Baggins]] awakes, he sees [[Gandalf]] for the first time in months. The old [[Wizard]] tells him that it is [[24 October]]; that he is in the house of [[Elrond]] at [[Rivendell]]; and that his other friends are fine.

Frodo cannot remember how he arrived at Rivendell. Gandalf explains that Frodo was beginning to fade due to the evil wound he'd suffered at [[Weathertop]]. Gandalf seems to know much about Frodo's journey thus far, explaining that Frodo talks in his sleep. Frodo asks Gandalf where he'd been all this time, but the only thing Gandalf is willing to reveal for now is that he was held captive.

Gandalf tells Frodo that war is about to break out; the [[Black Riders]] he'd encountered were in fact the Ringwraiths - the Nine kings of [[Men]] he had previously told Frodo about - who received rings from [[Sauron]] and became his servants. Gandalf says he had not learned that they were coming for Frodo until after he'd left [[The Shire]].

Frodo says they wouldn't have made it without Strider's help. He'd previously thought all Men were either kind and stupid like [[Barliman Butterbur]] or stupid and wicked like [[Bill Ferny]]. Gandalf stands up for Butterbur:

{{quote|He is wise enough on his own ground. He thinks less than he talks, and slower; yet he can see through a brick wall in time. But there are few left in Middle-earth like Aragorn son of Arathorn. The race of the Kings from over the Sea is nearly at an end. It may be that this War of the Ring will be their last adventure.|[[Gandalf]]}}

Gandalf continues to explain that the [[Rangers]] are the last remnants of the [[Men of the West]] in the North of Middle-earth, and have helped Gandalf before. He hopes they will help again in the future, given that [[The One Ring]]'s journey is not over yet. Frodo hopes he won't have to carry it any further.

Frodo discovers that his shoulder wound no longer hurts, and he can move his arm a little. Gandalf explains that Elrond has been tending to Frodo for days, and only managed to remove the splinter of the [[Morgul-knife]] from his shoulder the previous night. He says that had the shard not been removed, Frodo would have become a wraith himself, under the command of the Dark Lord. He marvels at the mettle and courage of [[Hobbits]], to have carried the shard for 17 days without succumbing.

Frodo says he could see the Ringwraiths' true forms while he was wearing the ring, but wonders how everyone could see their black horses. Gandalf explains that the horses were real, bred for that purpose to serve Sauron. He lists the many different types of creatures under Sauron's command, saying that their numbers are growing.

Frodo asks whether Rivendell is safe. Gandalf replies that it would be the last place to fall, as the Elves will not submit to Sauron. He says that Rivendell is home to some of the [[Eldar|Elven-wise]], who live in both the seen and unseen worlds simultaneously, and can therefore fight the Ringwraiths.

Frodo surmises that the glowing white figure he saw behind the Ringwraiths at the [[Ford of Bruinen]] was [[Glorfindel]], as he appears on the "other side". Gandalf confirms this, calling him "one of the mighty of the [[Firstborn]], an Elf-lord of a house of princes". Nevertheless, he says that even Rivendell and other places of great power (including The Shire) would eventually come under siege if all else around them falls to Sauron.

Gandalf examines Frodo with his magical sight, and sees a hint of transparency about him. He wonders to himself what will become of Frodo, but guesses that he would not fall to evil. He hopes that Frodo would eventually become "like a glass filled with clear light for eyes to see that can."

Frodo asks Gandalf to explain what happened at the Ford. Gandalf retells the story more clearly, adding that Glorfindel had the others prepare flaming brands to drive the remaining Black Riders into the river, after the first three had drowned. Frodo inquires whether the Ringwraiths have been vanquished for good. Gandalf explains that only the horses perished; the Ringwraiths cannot be defeated so easily, but have gone away for now.

Frodo asks what caused the flood. Gandalf says that it was Elrond, commanding the river that runs through his domain. Gandalf adds that the waves taking the shape of white horses and riders was his own personal touch.

Gandalf tells Frodo that he will be treated to a great feast to celebrate this victory, honoring Frodo as the Ring-bearer and heir to [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]], the Ring-finder. Frodo wonders what happened to Bilbo, wishing he could tell him of the last month's adventures. He falls asleep.

Frodo wakes that evening feeling much better. He examines himself in a mirror, discovering that he had thinned. [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]] enters, quickly running to hold Frodo's hand, which he is glad to find warm for the first time in days. He raves about the Elves for a while until Frodo asks him to provide a tour of Rivendell. Sam takes Frodo to the gardens, where he is reunited with [[Peregrin Took|Pipping]] and [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]].

{{quote|Hurray! Here is our noble cousin! Make way for Frodo, Lord of the Ring!|[[Peregrin Took]]}}

Gandalf chides Pippin for that epithet, saying that only the Master of the Dark Tower Lord of Mordor is the Lord of the Ring.

The group goes to the hall of Elrond's house, where they meet many other guests. Frodo observes Elrond for the first time, noting that he is both venerable and youthful. At the dinner table he also sees [[Arwen Undómiel]], Elrond's daughter, who is described to us as both queenly and thoughtful. The narrator explains that she had recently returned from [[lothórien|Lórien]], and that her brothers [[Elladan]] and [[Elrohir]] are currently away on an errand.

Next to Frodo at the table is a [[Dwarves|dwarf]] with a white beard. The dwarf introduces himself as [[Glóin]], and Frodo recognizes him as one of [[Thorin and Company|Thorin's twelve companions]]. Glóin is curious what brings four Hobbits to Rivendell, but correctly guesses that the matter should not yet be discussed. Similarly, he refuses to discuss what bring him to Rivendell, until the time is right.

From Glóin, Frodo learns that [[Grimbeorn the Old]], son of [[Beorn]], is now master of the lands between [[Mirkwood]] and the [[Misty Mountains]], and holds it fast against the [[Orcs]]. Glóin laments that the [[Beornings]] now charge a heavy toll for passage through their land, and do not like Dwarves. He also tells of the [[Men of Dale]], who've become strong allies to the Dwarves. [[Dale]] is now ruled by [[Brand]], grandson of [[Bard]].

With Frodo's permission, Glóin tells many stories about current events in the land of the Dwarves. He says that [[Dáin Ironfoot]] is still king of [[Erebor]], and that seven of the Dwarves that took the Mountain are still with him, including [[Bombur]] who has grown incredibly fat. However when Frodo inquires about the fates of [[Balin]], [[Ori]] and [[Óin]], Glóin regretfully says that he does not know; it is one of the reasons he came to Rivendell, to ask for counsel on the matter.

Glóin continues to extol the virtues of the new Dwarven kingdom under the Mountain: the Dwarves have exceeded their former skills in architecture, but have yet to be able to produce the same quality of weapons and armor as they did before the coming of [[Smaug]]. Frodo promises to visit Erebor if he gets the chance. Glóin mentions Bilbo, and Frodo says he wishes to see his uncle again more than anything.

After dinner, the guests are shown to the [[Hall of Fire]]. Frodo spots Bilbo sitting alone in the corner. Bilbo tells Frodo that he and Sam sat together by Frodo's side throughout his recovery. At Bilbo's bidding, messengers are sent to find [[Strider]] (whom he calls "the Dúnadan"), who was missing from the feast.

Bilbo says that his journey out of [[Hobbiton]] was aimless at first, but seemed to lead him always towards Rivendell. He then joined up with Dwarves and went back to Dale - his final journey - before returning to Rivendell again, where he stayed.

Bilbo speaks about The One Ring, lamenting that he didn't kept it and bring it to Rivendell himself, saving Frodo the trouble. He asks to see the Ring. Frodo discovers that the Elves had replaced its chain with a lighter, stronger one. He pulls out the Ring, but when Bilbo puts his hand out to take it, Frodo suddenly gets the urge to keep it away from Bilbo. For an instant he sees Bilbo as a gaunt, hungry creature, and feels a desire to strike him.

The hall suddenly goes quiet. Bilbo seems suddenly to understand the power of the Ring, and asks Frodo to put it away. He apologizes for having burdened Frodo with carrying on the adventure. Frodo puts the Ring away, and the hall is once again filled with music and merriment.

Frodo tells Bilbo many stories from The Shire. As they talk, Strider suddenly appears. Bilbo explains that the name he calls Strider - "Dúnadan" - means [[Man of the West]]. He asks Strider why he'd missed the feast, mentioning that Arwen was present. Strider says that Elladan and Elrohir had returned from their errand with important news, which he wanted to hear as soon as possible.

Bilbo asks for Strider's help in writing a song to cap the evening's celebration. While they discuss it, Frodo begins to lose himself in the music and singing of the Elves in the hall, as it carries him to sleep. He is awakened to hear the voice of Bilbo, who starts singing [[Song of Eärendil|his new song]]. The song is very long, and by the time it is over, Frodo sees that many Elves had gathered around to hear it.

An Elf named [[Lindir]] asks to hear the song again, but Bilbo is too tired to repeat it. Lindir says that Bilbo is never too tired to repeat his own songs, causing Bilbo to chastise him for not noticing that Strider had written several of the verses. Lindir claims that it is difficult for Elves to distinguish between two mortals, much to Bilbo's dismay.

{{quote|To sheep other sheep no doubt appear different. Or to shepherds. But Mortals have not been our study. We have other business.|[[Lindir]]}}

To Frodo, Bilbo admits to have written the entire song; Strider wanted nothing to do with writing songs about Eärendil in Elrond's house. Bilbo suggests going to talk in private, and they both turn to leave. As they exit the hall, one of the Elves begins to sing the hymn [[A Elbereth Gilthoniel]]. Frodo looks back into the hall, briefly seeing Arwen again, with Aragorn standing beside her; he appears to Frodo as though wearing Elven mail, with a star shining on his breast. Arwen looks at Frodo, and he is instantly enchanted.

Bilbo leads Frodo to his room, and they talk for hours about the beautiful things they had seen during their separate adventures. Their conversation is only interrupted when Sam appears, begging his master to go to sleep, as a council has been scheduled for the next morning. Before saying goodbye for the night, Bilbo laments that he might not live to see what becomes of Frodo's story.

==Composition==
The chapter is the 13th of the published ''Fellowship'', but during writing it was "Chapter 12" of the work so far.<ref>{{HM|RC}}, p. lxxiii</ref> The "Chapter 12" was completed by the end of [[1938]].<ref>{{L|35}}</ref><ref group=note>In [[The Lord of the Rings Foreword]] (second edition, [[1966]]) Tolkien claims that "the tale had not yet reached the end of Book One" by [[1939]], but this seems to be a mistake while recollecting his writing process.</ref>

The chapter was revised around [[1940]]-[[1941]], when Tolkien decided that [[Aragorn]] was the [[Heir of Elendil]], and Bilbo's telling to Frodo of Aragorn's background was added at that stage; there are also early versions of the [[Song of Earendil]] (evolved from the earlier ''[[Errantry]]'').<ref>{{HM|RC}}, p. xxiii</ref>

{{references|n}}
[[Category:The Fellowship of the Ring chapters]]

Many Meetings

2023-07-31T23:29:56Z

Headrock: Final cut, as far as I'm concerned. Minor edits might follow, though I think I'm done.

{{chapter
| image=Donato Giancola - Rivendell - Recovery.jpeg
| title=Many Meetings
| book=The Fellowship of the Ring
| number=13
| event=[[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] wakes in [[Rivendell]]; he learns about the [[Nazgûl|Black Riders]].
| location=[[Rivendell]]
| date=[[24 October]] {{TA|3018|n}}
| previous=Flight to the Ford
| next=The Council of Elrond
}}

'''Many Meetings''' is the first chapter of the second book in ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.

In this chapter, Frodo awakes at [[Rivendell]] and is reunited with [[Gandalf]] and the other [[Hobbits]]. He is invited to a feast in his honor, where he meets [[Glóin]] and hears many news of the [[Dwarves]]. He also observes [[Arwen]]. After the meal, he is reunited with [[Bilbo]], who is still sick with longing for [[The One Ring]].

==Summary==

When [[Frodo Baggins]] awakes, he sees [[Gandalf]] for the first time in months. The old [[Wizard]] tells him that it is [[24 October]]; that he is in the house of [[Elrond]] at [[Rivendell]]; and that his other friends are fine.

Frodo cannot remember how he arrived at Rivendell. Gandalf explains that Frodo was beginning to fade due to the evil wound he'd suffered at [[Weathertop]]. Gandalf seems to know much about Frodo's journey thus far, explaining that Frodo talks in his sleep. Frodo asks Gandalf where he'd been all this time, but the only thing Gandalf is willing to reveal for now is that he was held captive.

Gandalf tells Frodo that war is about to break out; the [[Black Riders]] he'd encountered were in fact the Ringwraiths - the Nine kings of [[Men]] he had previously told Frodo about - who received rings from [[Sauron]] and became his servants. Gandalf says he had not learned that they were coming for Frodo until after he'd left [[The Shire]].

Frodo says they wouldn't have made it without Strider's help. He'd previously thought all Men were either kind and stupid like [[Barliman Butterbur]] or stupid and wicked like [[Bill Ferny]]. Gandalf stands up for Butterbur:

{{quote|He is wise enough on his own ground. He thinks less than he talks, and slower; yet he can see through a brick wall in time. But there are few left in Middle-earth like Aragorn son of Arathorn. The race of the Kings from over the Sea is nearly at an end. It may be that this War of the Ring will be their last adventure.|[[Gandalf]]}}

Gandalf continues to explain that the [[Rangers]] are the last remnants of the [[Men of the West]] in the North of Middle-earth, and have helped Gandalf before. He mentions that the Ring will have to continue its journey. Frodo hopes he won't have to carry it any further.

Frodo discovers that his shoulder wound no longer hurts, and he can move his arm a little. Gandalf explains that Elrond has been tending to Frodo for days, and only managed to remove the splinter of the [[Morgul-knife]] from his shoulder the previous night. He says that had the shard not been removed, Frodo would have become a wraith himself, under the command of the Dark Lord. He marvels at the mettle and courage of [[Hobbits]], to have carried the shard for 17 days without succumbing.

Frodo says he could see the Ringwraiths' true forms while he was wearing the ring, but wonders how everyone could see their black horses. Gandalf explains that the horses were real, bred for that purpose to serve Sauron. He lists the many different types of creatures under Sauron's command, saying that their numbers are growing.

Frodo asks whether Rivendell is safe. Gandalf replies that it would be the last place to fall, as the Elves will not submit to Sauron. He says that Rivendell is home to some of the [[Eldar|Elven-wise]], who live in both the seen and unseen worlds simultaneously, and can therefore fight the Ringwraiths.

Frodo surmises that the glowing white figure he saw behind the Ringwraiths at the [[Ford of Bruinen]] was [[Glorfindel]], as he appears on the "other side". Gandalf confirms this, calling him "one of the mighty of the [[Firstborn]], an Elf-lord of a house of princes". Nevertheless, he says that even Rivendell and other places of great power (including The Shire) would eventually come under siege if all else around them falls to Sauron.

Gandalf examines Frodo with his magical sight, and sees a hint of transparency about him. He wonders to himself what will become of Frodo, but guesses that he would not fall to evil. He hopes that Frodo would eventually become "like a glass filled with clear light for eyes to see that can."

Frodo asks Gandalf to explain what happened at the Ford. Gandalf retells the story more clearly, adding that Glorfindel had the others prepare flaming brands to drive the remaining Black Riders into the river, after the first three had drowned. Frodo inquires whether the Ringwraiths have been vanquished for good. Gandalf explains that only the horses perished; the Ringwraiths cannot be defeated so easily, but have gone away for now.

Frodo asks what caused the flood. Gandalf says that it was Elrond, commanding the river that runs through his domain. Gandalf adds that the waves taking the shape of white horses and riders was his own personal touch.

Gandalf tells Frodo that he will be treated to a great feast to celebrate this victory, honoring Frodo as the Ring-bearer and heir to [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]], the Ring-finder. Frodo wonders what happened to Bilbo, wishing he could tell him of the last month's adventures. He falls asleep.

Frodo wakes that evening feeling much better. He examines himself in a mirror, discovering that he had thinned. [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]] enters, quickly running to hold Frodo's hand, which he is glad to find warm for the first time in days. He raves about the Elves for a while until Frodo asks him to provide a tour of Rivendell. Sam takes Frodo to the gardens, where he is reunited with [[Peregrin Took|Pipping]] and [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]].

{{quote|Hurray! Here is our noble cousin! Make way for Frodo, Lord of the Ring!|[[Peregrin Took]]}}

Gandalf chides Pippin for that epithet, saying that only the Master of the Dark Tower Lord of Mordor is the Lord of the Ring.

The group goes to the hall of Elrond's house, where they meet many other guests. Frodo observes Elrond for the first time, noting that he is both venerable and youthful. At the dinner table he also sees [[Arwen Undómiel]], Elrond's daughter, who is described to us as both queenly and thoughtful. The narrator explains that she had recently returned from [[lothórien|Lórien]], and that her brothers [[Elladan]] and [[Elrohir]] are currently away on an errand.

Next to Frodo at the table is a [[Dwarves|dwarf]] with a white beard. The dwarf introduces himself as [[Glóin]], and Frodo recognizes him as one of [[Thorin and Company|Thorin's twelve companions]]. Glóin is curious what brings four Hobbits to Rivendell, but correctly guesses that the matter should not yet be discussed. Similarly, he refuses to discuss what bring him to Rivendell, until the time is right.

From Glóin, Frodo learns that [[Grimbeorn the Old]], son of [[Beorn]], is now master of the lands between [[Mirkwood]] and the [[Misty Mountains]], and holds it fast against the [[Orcs]]. Glóin laments that the [[Beornings]] now charge a heavy toll for passage through their land, and do not like Dwarves. He also tells of the [[Men of Dale]], who've become strong allies to the Dwarves. [[Dale]] is now ruled by [[Brand]], grandson of [[Bard]].

With Frodo's permission, Glóin tells many stories about current events in the land of the Dwarves. He says that [[Dáin Ironfoot]] is still king of [[Erebor]], and that seven of the Dwarves that took the Mountain are still with him, including [[Bombur]] who has grown incredibly fat. However when Frodo inquires about the fates of [[Balin]], [[Ori]] and [[Óin]], Glóin regretfully says that he does not know; it is one of the reasons he came to Rivendell, to ask for counsel on the matter.

Glóin continues to extol the virtues of the new Dwarven kingdom under the Mountain: the Dwarves have exceeded their former skills in architecture, but have yet to be able to produce the same quality of weapons and armor as they did before the coming of [[Smaug]]. Frodo promises to visit Erebor if he gets the chance. Glóin mentions Bilbo, and Frodo says he wishes to see his uncle again more than anything.

After dinner, the guests are shown to the [[Hall of Fire]]. Frodo spots Bilbo sitting alone in the corner. Bilbo tells Frodo that he and Sam sat together by Frodo's side throughout his recovery. At Bilbo's bidding, messengers are sent to find [[Strider]] (whom he calls "the Dúnadan"), who was missing from the feast.

Bilbo says that his journey out of [[Hobbiton]] was aimless at first, but seemed to lead him always towards Rivendell. He then joined up with Dwarves and went back to Dale - his final journey - before returning to Rivendell again, where he stayed.

Bilbo speaks about [[The One Ring]], lamenting that he didn't kept it and bring it to Rivendell himself, saving Frodo the trouble. He asks to see the Ring. Frodo discovers that the Elves had replaced its chain with a lighter, stronger one. He pulls out the Ring, but when Bilbo puts his hand out to take it, Frodo suddenly gets the urge to keep it away from Bilbo. For an instant he sees Bilbo as a gaunt, hungry creature, and feels a desire to strike him.

The hall suddenly goes quiet. Bilbo seems suddenly to understand the power of the Ring, and asks Frodo to put it away. He apologizes for having burdened Frodo with carrying on the adventure. Frodo puts the Ring away, and the hall is once again filled with music and merriment.

Frodo tells Bilbo many stories from The Shire. As they talk, Strider suddenly appears. Bilbo explains that the name he calls Strider - "Dúnadan" - means [[Man of the West]]. He asks Strider why he'd missed the feast, mentioning that Arwen was present. Strider says that Elladan and Elrohir had returned from their errand with important news, which he wanted to hear as soon as possible.

Bilbo asks for Strider's help in writing a song to cap the evening's celebration. While they discuss it, Frodo begins to lose himself in the music and singing of the Elves in the hall, as it carries him to sleep. He is awakened to hear the voice of Bilbo, who starts singing [[Song of Eärendil|his new song]]. The song is very long, and by the time it is over, Frodo sees that many Elves had gathered around to hear it.

An Elf named [[Lindir]] asks to hear the song again, but Bilbo is too tired to repeat it. Lindir says that Bilbo is never too tired to repeat his own songs, causing Bilbo to chastise him for not noticing that Strider had written several of the verses. Lindir claims that it is difficult for Elves to distinguish between two mortals, much to Bilbo's dismay.

{{quote|To sheep other sheep no doubt appear different. Or to shepherds. But Mortals have not been our study. We have other business.|[[Lindir]]}}

To Frodo, Bilbo admits to have written the entire song; Strider wanted nothing to do with writing songs about Eärendil in Elrond's house. Bilbo suggests going to talk in private, and they both turn to leave. As they exit the hall, one of the Elves begins to sing the hymn [[A Elbereth Gilthoniel]]. Frodo looks back into the hall, briefly seeing Arwen again, with Aragorn standing beside her; he appears to Frodo as though wearing Elven mail, with a star shining on his breast. Arwen looks at Frodo, and he is instantly enchanted.

Bilbo leads Frodo to his room, and they talk for hours about the beautiful things they had seen during their separate adventures. Their conversation is only interrupted when Sam appears, begging his master to go to sleep, as a council has been scheduled for the next morning. Before saying goodbye for the night, Bilbo laments that he might not live to see what becomes of Frodo's story.

==Composition==
The chapter is the 13th of the published ''Fellowship'', but during writing it was "Chapter 12" of the work so far.<ref>{{HM|RC}}, p. lxxiii</ref> The "Chapter 12" was completed by the end of [[1938]].<ref>{{L|35}}</ref><ref group=note>In [[The Lord of the Rings Foreword]] (second edition, [[1966]]) Tolkien claims that "the tale had not yet reached the end of Book One" by [[1939]], but this seems to be a mistake while recollecting his writing process.</ref>

The chapter was revised around [[1940]]-[[1941]], when Tolkien decided that [[Aragorn]] was the [[Heir of Elendil]], and Bilbo's telling to Frodo of Aragorn's background was added at that stage; there are also early versions of the [[Song of Earendil]] (evolved from the earlier ''[[Errantry]]'').<ref>{{HM|RC}}, p. xxiii</ref>

{{references|n}}
[[Category:The Fellowship of the Ring chapters]]

Many Meetings

2023-07-31T23:12:46Z

Headrock: Complete rewrite. There is still some fat to be cut; I'll try doing it myself. Additional notes on the discussion page.

{{chapter
| image=Donato Giancola - Rivendell - Recovery.jpeg
| title=Many Meetings
| book=The Fellowship of the Ring
| number=13
| event=[[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] wakes in [[Rivendell]]; he learns about the [[Nazgûl|Black Riders]].
| location=[[Rivendell]]
| date=[[24 October]] {{TA|3018|n}}
| previous=Flight to the Ford
| next=The Council of Elrond
}}

'''Many Meetings''' is the first chapter of the second book in ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.

In this chapter, Frodo awakes at [[Rivendell]] and is reunited with [[Gandalf]] and the other [[Hobbits]]. He is invited to a feast in his honor, where he meets [[Glóin]] and hears many news of the [[Dwarves]]. He also observes [[Arwen]]. After the meal, he is reunited with [[Bilbo]], who is still sick with longing for [[The One Ring]].

==Summary==

When [[Frodo Baggins]] awakes, he sees [[Gandalf]] for the first time in months. The old [[Wizard]] tells him that it is [[24 October]]; that he is in the house of [[Elrond]] at [[Rivendell]]; and that his other friends are fine.

Frodo cannot remember how he arrived at Rivendell. Gandalf explains that Frodo was beginning to fade due to the evil wound he'd suffered at [[Weathertop]]. Gandalf seems to know much about Frodo's journey thus far, explaining that Frodo talks in his sleep. Frodo asks Gandalf where he'd been all this time, but the only thing Gandalf is willing to reveal for now is that he was held captive.

Gandalf tells Frodo that war is about to break out; the [[Black Riders]] he'd encountered were in fact the Ringwraiths - the Nine kings of [[Men]] he had previously told Frodo about - who received rings from [[Sauron]] and became his servants. Gandalf says he had not learned that they were coming for Frodo until after he'd left [[The Shire]].

Frodo says they wouldn't have made it without Strider's help. He'd previously thought all Men were either kind and stupid like [[Barliman Butterbur]] or stupid and wicked like [[Bill Ferny]]. Gandalf stands up for Butterbur:

{{quote|He is wise enough on his own ground. He thinks less than he talks, and slower; yet he can see through a brick wall in time. But there are few left in Middle-earth like Aragorn son of Arathorn. The race of the Kings from over the Sea is nearly at an end. It may be that this War of the Ring will be their last adventure.|[[Gandalf]]}}

Gandalf continues to explain that the [[Rangers]] are the last remnants of the [[Men of the West]] in the North of Middle-earth, and have helped Gandalf before. He mentions that the Ring will have to continue its journey. Frodo hopes he won't have to carry it any further.

Frodo discovers that his shoulder wound no longer hurts, and he can move his arm a little. Gandalf explains that Elrond has been tending to Frodo for days, and only managed to remove the splinter of the [[Morgul-knife]] from his shoulder the previous night. He says that had the shard not been removed, Frodo would have become a wraith himself, under the command of the Dark Lord. He marvels at the mettle and courage of [[Hobbits]], to have carried the shard for 17 days without succumbing.

Frodo says he could see the Ringwraiths' true forms while he was wearing the ring, but wonders how everyone could see their black horses. Gandalf explains that the horses were real, bred for that purpose to serve Sauron. He lists the many different types of creatures under Sauron's command, saying that their numbers are growing.

Frodo asks whether Rivendell is safe. Gandalf replies that it would be the last place to fall, as the Elves will not submit to Sauron. He says that Rivendell is home to some of the [[Eldar|Elven-wise]], who live in both the seen and unseen worlds simultaneously, and can therefore fight the Ringwraiths.

Frodo surmises that the glowing white figure he saw behind the Ringwraiths at the [[Ford of Bruinen]] was [[Glorfindel]], as he appears on the "other side". Gandalf confirms this, calling him "one of the mighty of the [[Firstborn]], an Elf-lord of a house of princes". Nevertheless, he says that even Rivendell and other places of great power (including The Shire) would eventually come under siege if all else around them falls to Sauron.

Gandalf examines Frodo with his magical sight, and sees a hint of transparency about him. He wonders to himself what will become of Frodo, but guesses that he would not fall to evil. He hopes that Frodo would eventually become "like a glass filled with clear light for eyes to see that can."

Frodo asks Gandalf to explain what happened at the Ford. Gandalf retells the story more clearly, adding that Glorfindel had the others prepare flaming brands to drive the remaining Black Riders into the river, after the first three had drowned. Frodo inquires whether the Ringwraiths have been vanquished for good. Gandalf explains that only the horses perished; the Ringwraiths cannot be defeated so easily, but have gone away for now.

Frodo asks what caused the flood. Gandalf says that it was Elrond, commanding the river that runs through his domain. Gandalf adds that the waves taking the shape of white horses and riders was his own personal touch.

Gandalf tells Frodo that he will be treated to a great feast to celebrate this victory, honoring Frodo as the Ring-bearer and heir to [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]], the Ring-finder. Frodo wonders what happened to Bilbo, wishing he could tell him of the last month's adventures. He falls asleep.

Frodo wakes that evening feeling much better. He examines himself in a mirror, discovering that he had thinned. [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]] enters, quickly running to hold Frodo's hand, which he is glad to find warm for the first time in days. He raves about the Elves for a while until Frodo asks him to provide a tour of Rivendell. Sam takes Frodo to the gardens, where he is reunited with [[Peregrin Took|Pipping]] and [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]].

{{quote|Hurray! Here is our noble cousin! Make way for Frodo, Lord of the Ring!|[[Peregrin Took]]}}

Gandalf chides Pippin for that epithet, saying that only [[Sauron|the Master of the Dark Tower Lord of Mordor]] is the Lord of the Ring.

The group goes to the hall of Elron'd house, where they meet many other guests. He observes Elrond for the first time, noting that he is both venerable and youthful. At the dinner table he also sees [[Arwen Undómiel]], Elrond's daughter, who is described to us as both queenly and thoughtful. The narrator explains that she had recently returned from [[lothórien|Lórien]], and that her brothers [[Elladan]] and [[Elrohir]] are currently away on an errand.

Frodo's friends are seated away from him, as guests of honor. Next to him is a [[Dwarves|dwarf]] with a forked, white beard, wearing a chain of silver and diamonds. The dwarf introduces himself as [[Glóin]], and Frodo recognizes him as one of [[Thorin and Company|Thorin's twelve companions]]. Glóin is curious what brings four Hobbits to Rivendell, but correctly guesses that the matter should not yet be discussed. Similarly, he refuses to discuss what bring him to Rivendell, until the time is right.

Frodo learns that [[Grimbeorn the Old]], son of [[Beorn]], is now master of the lands between [[Mirkwood]] and the [[Misty Mountains]], and holds it fast against the [[Orcs]]. Glóin laments that the [[Beornings]] now charge a heavy toll for passage through their land, and do not like Dwarves. He also tells of the [[Men of Dale]], who've become strong allies to the Dwarves, and are now ruled by [[Brand]], grandson of [[Bard]].

With Frodo's permission, Glóin tells many stories about current events in the land of the Dwarved. He says that [[Dáin Ironfoot]] is still king of [[Erebor]], and that seven of the Dwarves that took the Mountain are still with him, including [[Bombur]] who has grown incredibly fat. However when Frodo inquires about the fates of [[Balin]], [[Ori]] and [[Óin]], Glóin regretfully says that he does not know; it is one of the reasons he came to Rivendell, to ask for counsel on the matter.

Glóin continues to extoll the virtues of the new Dwarven kingdom under the Mountain. He says that the Dwarves have exceeded their skills in architecture, but have yet to be able to produce the same quality of weapons and armor as they did before the coming of [[Smaug]]. Frodo promises to visit Erebor if he gets the chance. Glóin mentions Bilbo, and Frodo says he wishes to see his uncle again more than anything.

After dinner, the guests are shown to the [[Hall of Fire]]. Frodo spots a small figure sitting hunched in the corner. Elrond walks over and bids the figure wake. It is Bilbo, who claims that he was deep in thought, making up a new song. He tells Frodo that he had sat by his side throughout his recovery, together with Sam. At Bilbo's bidding, messengers are sent to find [[Strider]] (whom he calls "the Dúnadan"), who was missing from the feast, though none of them manage to find him.

Bilbo says that his journey out of [[Hobbiton]] was aimless at first, but seemed to lead him to Rivendell. He then joined up with Dwarves and went back to [[Dale]] - his final journey - before returning to Rivendell again, where he stayed.

Bilbo speaks about [[The One Ring]], lamenting that he hadn't kept it and brought it with him to Rivendell, saving Frodo the trouble. He asks to see the Ring. Frodo discovers that the Elves had replaced its chain with a lighter, stronger one. He pulls out the Ring, but when Bilbo puts his hand out to take it, Frodo suddenly gets the urge to keep it away from Bilbo. For an instant he sees Bilbo as a gaunt, hungry creature, and feels a desire to strike him.

The hall suddenly goes quiet. Bilbo seems suddenly to understand the power of the Ring, and asks Frodo to put it away. He apologizes for having put the burden on Frodo to carry on the adventure. Frodo puts the Ring away, and the hall is once again filled with music and merriment.

Frodo tells Bilbo many stories from The Shire. As they talk, Strider suddenly appears. Bilbo explains that the name "Dúnadan" means [[Man of the West]]. He asks Strider why he'd missed the feast, noting that Arwen was present. Strider says that Elladan and Elrohir had returned from their errand with important news, which he wanted to hear as soon as possible.

Bilbo asks for Strider's help in writing a song to cap the evening's celebration. While they discuss it, Frodo begins to lose himself in the music and singing of the Elves in the hall, as it carries him to sleep. He is awakened to hear the voice of Bilbo, who starts singing [[Song of Eärendil|his new song]]. The song is very long, and by the time it is over, Frodo sees that many Elves had gathered around to hear it.

An Elf named [[Lindir]] asks to hear the song again, but Bilbo is too tired to repeat it. Lindir says that Bilbo is never too tired to repeat his own songs, causing Bilbo to chastise him for not noticing that Strider had written several of the verses. Lindir claims that it is difficult for Elves to distinguish between two mortals, much to Bilbo's dismay.

{{quote|To sheep other sheep no doubt appear different. Or to shepherds. But Mortals have not been our study. We have other business.|[[Lindir]]}}

To Frodo, Bilbo admits to have written the entire song; Strider wanted nothing to do with writing songs about Eärendil in Elrond's house. Bilbo suggests going to talk in private, and they both turn to leave. As they exit the hall, one of the Elves begins to sing the hymn [[A Elbereth Gilthoniel]]. Frodo looks back into the hall, briefly seeing Arwen again, with Aragorn standing beside her; he appears to Frodo as though wearing Elven mail, with a star shining on his breast. Arwen looks at Frodo, and he is instantly enchanted.

Bilbo leads Frodo to his room, and they talk for hours about beautiful things they had seen during their adventures. Their conversation is only interrupted when Sam appears, begging his master to go to sleep, as a council has been scheduled for the next morning. Before saying goodbye for the night, Bilbo laments that he might not get to see what becomes of Frodo's story.

==Composition==
The chapter is the 13th of the published ''Fellowship'', but during writing it was "Chapter 12" of the work so far.<ref>{{HM|RC}}, p. lxxiii</ref> The "Chapter 12" was completed by the end of [[1938]].<ref>{{L|35}}</ref><ref group=note>In [[The Lord of the Rings Foreword]] (second edition, [[1966]]) Tolkien claims that "the tale had not yet reached the end of Book One" by [[1939]], but this seems to be a mistake while recollecting his writing process.</ref>

The chapter was revised around [[1940]]-[[1941]], when Tolkien decided that [[Aragorn]] was the [[Heir of Elendil]], and Bilbo's telling to Frodo of Aragorn's background was added at that stage; there are also early versions of the [[Song of Earendil]] (evolved from the earlier ''[[Errantry]]'').<ref>{{HM|RC}}, p. xxiii</ref>

{{references|n}}
[[Category:The Fellowship of the Ring chapters]]

Flight to the Ford

2023-07-30T23:45:03Z

Headrock: /* Summary */

{{chapter
| image=Ted Nasmith - At the Ford.jpg
| title=Flight to the Ford
| book=The Fellowship of the Ring
| number=12
| event=[[Glorfindel]] helps [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] escape the [[Nazgûl|Black Riders]].
| date=[[6 October|6]]-[[20 October]] {{TA|3018|n}}
| location=[[Ford of Bruinen]]
| previous=A Knife in the Dark
| next=Many Meetings
}}

'''Flight to the Ford''' is the twelfth and last chapter in the first book of ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.

In this chapter, [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] turns out to have been seriously wounded in the fight on [[Weathertop]]. He is treated by [[Strider]], and the party urgently makes for [[Rivendell]] in the hopes of curing him. They pass through the [[Trollshaws]] and meet [[Glorfindel]], who had been searching for them. They attempt to reach the [[Ford of Bruinen]], and the [[Black Riders]] drown trying to pursue Frodo across the river.

==Summary==

[[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] regains consciousness, still clutching [[The One Ring]]. [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]], [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] and [[Peregrin Took|Pippin]] are there.

{{quote|What has happened? Where is the pale king?|[[Frodo Baggins]]}}

Sam tells Frodo that all they saw were shadows rushing past them, and then Frodo was suddenly gone; after which they heard him shout something as though he was far away. Once the shadows passed, the [[Hobbits]] stumbled across his body lying unconscious in the grass, and feared he was dead.

[[Strider]] returns, saying that the [[Black Riders]] have disappeared. He expects them to regroup and attack again. After hearing Frodo's account, he immediately orders the Hobbits to prepare boiling water and keep Frodo warm. He explains that Frodo may have suffered a deadly wound that would subdue him to the Riders' will.

At dawn, Strider discovers a thin knife on the ground, with its tip broken off. He says that this was the knife that pierced Frodo, and that it is evil. The blade melts and vanishes like smoke in the sunlight. He sings a song over the dagger's hilt. He then produces a few leaves from his pouch, saying that he had found an [[Athelas]] plant not far away. Though it has healing powers, Strider fears it will barely help. He boils the leaves and applies them to Frodo's wounds. Frodo feels some relief, but discovers that he cannot move his arm at all, and is unable to walk.

Strider and the Hobbits decide to leave Weathertop as soon as possible. Once the sun is up, they load the immobilized Frodo onto [[Bill the Pony|their pony]], distributing the remaining supplies between them. The pony seems stronger than ever. They strike eastwards through the wilderness in silence. Though they encounter no Black Riders, they can hear distant wails, calling and answering.

After six days of marching, they reach the [[Last Bridge]] over the Hoarwell. Scouting ahead, Strider finds a shiny green beryl - an [[Elven]] jewel - though he cannot ascertain its meaning. Seeing no sign of a Black Rider ambush, he hurries the Hobbits across the bridge. As they climb into the hills, they begin to see ruins of walls and towers. Frodo is reminded of [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]]'s accounts of this region, remembering his story about the [[Stone-trolls]]. Strider says that these are the ruins of ancient [[Men|Mannish]] settlements which once belonged to the evil kingdom of [[Angmar]]; its shadow still lies here. Pippin asks how Strider knows so much lore.

{{quote|The heirs of Elendil do not forget all things past, and many more things than I can tell are remembered in Rivendell.|[[Strider]]}}

Frodo asks whether Strider has ever been to Rivendell. Strider answers that he once lived there, and still returns occasionally. He says his heart dwells there, but that it is not his fate to sit in peace.

On the tenth night of their journey from Weathertop, Frodo dreams that he is back in his garden at [[Bag End]], but everything is faint and dim. The only thing he sees clearly are tall shadows peering at him from behind the hedge.

The next morning, Strider discovers that they had strayed too far north, close to the [[Ettenmoors]]. As they veer southwards, the ground becomes difficult to climb, and eventually Frodo collapses in pain. Merry wonders whether Frodo could be cured in Rivendell. Sam doesn't understand why Frodo is still in danger, seeing as his wounds have practically closed already. Strider explains that the weapon of the enemy contains a sinister poison that he cannot drive out.

The party stops to rest near a small quarry. In his sleep, Frodo dreams of great, dark, winged shapes sweeping above him, ridden by all-seeing pursuers. In the morning, as they set out downhill, their pony displays remarkable skill in finding easy routes down steep slopes. Frodo seems a little better, though his eyesight begins to fade intermittently.

Pippin spots a path leading straight through the woods below. It appears to have been made by large creatures, as both trees and rocks had been broken to let it through. They follow the path into the woods. It soon passes in front of a door in a rocky hillside, hanging ajar off a single hinge. Strider, Merry and Sam force the door open, and discover a cave full of bones and broken earthenware. Strider concludes that this is a Troll cave.

As they continue, Pippin goes scouting ahead with Merry. They soon come running back, reporting that they'd seen trolls. Strider picks up a stick and they slowly advance. In a clearing, they find three huge Trolls, standing completely still. Strider walks up and commands them to wake, then breaks his stick against one of them. The Trolls do not react. The Hobbits are astonished. Frodo begins to laugh, realizing that these are the Stone-trolls from Bilbo's story, which he had never really believed until that point.

{{quote|You are forgetting not only your family history, but all you ever knew about trolls. It is broad daylight with a bright sun, and yet you come back trying to scare me with a tale of live trolls waiting for us in this glade! In any case you might have noticed that one of them has an old bird's nest behind his ear.|[[Strider]]}}

They eat a meal near the foot of one of the troll statues, and Merry suggests that someone sing. Eventually, Sam relents and sings them [[The Stone Troll|a song about a troll]] who stole a shinbone from a grave. After the song is done, Frodo reveals that Sam had made it up on the spot.

The party follows a road that they speculate had been used by Bilbo, [[Gandalf]] and the [[Thorin and Company|thirteen dwarves]]. Indeed, they soon find a stone covered in [[Dwarves|Dwarven]] runes, marking the spot where they buried the Trolls' treasure. When Merry asks Frodo wheher anything was left of Bilbo's share of that treasure, Frodo secretly wishes that Bilbo had brought home no treasure at all, alluding to The One Ring. He tells Merry that Bilbo had given all of the treasure away, since it came from robber Trolls.

At sundown, the party suddenly hears hoof-beats coming from behind, and takes cover. A figure with flowing golden hair, riding a white horse, appears on the road behind them. Strider leaps out with joy, and the rider dismounts.

{{quote|Ai na vedui Dúnadan! Mae govannen!|[[Glorfindel]]}}

Strider introduces the figure as [[Glorfindel]], an Elf who lives at Rivendell. Glorfindel greets Frodo, saying he was sent out to look for him. He had set out from Rivendell nine days earlier, after receiving news that "the Nine" (the Black Riders) were in the area and that Frodo was without Gandalf's protection. Gandalf had still not arrived in Rivendell by the time Glorfindel left. Seven days ago he crossed the Last Bridge, where he left the green beryl. He encountered three Black Riders and chased them away from the bridge. Two days ago he found the Hobbits' trail and followed it here. He warns that five Black Riders are behind them, and has no idea where the other four are.

Frodo collapses. Strider tells Glorfindel of his wounds, showing him the hilt of the evil dagger. Glorfindel lays his hands on Frodo's wound; Frodo feels little better, though Glorfindel does not seem hopeful. Glorfindel lifts Frodo up on [[Asfaloth|his horse]], saying that in case of emergency it will bear him forward with greater speed than any Black Rider could match. Frodo objects, not wanting to leave his friends behind to face the peril alone. Glorfindel reassures him that the Black Riders are only after him, not his friends.

The party redistributes the weight of their supplies, and makes haste onward through the night. They finally collapse of exhaustion. Glorfindel gives each of them a sip of a clear liquid he was carrying, which reinvigorates them. Later, they finally get a view of the Bruinen far ahead. They see no sign of the Black Riders. Glorfindel speaks to Strider in [[Elvish]].

The next morning, the party continues on with ever-greater exhaustion. Passing through a short tunnel, they begin hearing footsteps echoing all around them, following them. On the other side, still some distance from the Ford, the footfalls intensify and a strong wind suddenly blows around them.

{{quote|Fly! Fly! The enemy is upon us!|[[Glorfindel]]}}

Glorfindel's horse leaps forward, with the others doing the same. Four Black Riders appear behind them on the path, though they do not charge. Glorfindel orders Frodo to ride forward, but Frodo stops and looks back towards the motionless Black Riders, realizing they are commanding him to wait. Feeling a sudden rush of intense fear and hatred, he draws his sword, which glows red.

Glorfindel calls to his horse in Elvish.

{{quote|Noro lim, noro lim, Asfaloth!|[[Glorfindel]]}}

The horse breaks immediately into a full gallop, speeding onwards faster than the Black Riders can follow. A horrifying cry pierces the air, and the party is dismayed to see more Black Riders emerging from ambush, galloping ahead to cut Frodo off. Though he leaves the pursuers far behind, the two flankers stop ahead of him, and he sees their true forms, robed in white and grey. The horse Asfaloth does not show fear, breezing right past the Black Riders at full gallop. Frodo fades in and out of consciousness, but soon enough feels the horse wading across the Bruinen.

Asfaloth stops on the far side of the Ford as nine Riders appear at the edge of the water. Frodo raises his sword, commanding them to stop their pursuit and go back to [[Mordor]]. The Riders laugh at his command and call him to come back to Mordor with them.

In a last act of defiance, Frodo calls to Elbereth and Lúthien. The lead Rider, now halfway across the Ford, raises his hand. Frodo becomes unable to speak, and his sword shatters. Asfaloth rears up.

Just before the Black Riders finish crossing the ford, the river begins to swell and roar. A great deluge of water comes down from the mountainside, and Frodo can almost see white riders upon white horses with flowing manes in the great waves. The three Black Riders that were in the river are washed away.

Behind the remaining Black Riders on the other side of the ford, Frodo sees a shining white figure, followed by small forms waving red flames. The black horses suddenly go mad, running into the river and drowning themselves and their riders in it. At this, Frodo finally passes out.

[[Category:The Fellowship of the Ring chapters]]
[[fi:Pako Kahlaamolle (TSH)]]

Flight to the Ford

2023-07-30T23:42:35Z

Headrock: I tried chopping out as much as I could. It was painful. I will not be cutting anything more from this article.

{{chapter
| image=Ted Nasmith - At the Ford.jpg
| title=Flight to the Ford
| book=The Fellowship of the Ring
| number=12
| event=[[Glorfindel]] helps [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] escape the [[Nazgûl|Black Riders]].
| date=[[6 October|6]]-[[20 October]] {{TA|3018|n}}
| location=[[Ford of Bruinen]]
| previous=A Knife in the Dark
| next=Many Meetings
}}

'''Flight to the Ford''' is the twelfth and last chapter in the first book of ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.

In this chapter, [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] turns out to have been seriously wounded in the fight on [[Weathertop]]. He is treated by [[Strider]], and the party urgently makes for [[Rivendell]] in the hopes of curing him. They pass through the [[Trollshaws]] and meet [[Glorfindel]], who had been searching for them. They attempt to reach the [[Ford of Bruinen]], and the [[Black Riders]] drown trying to pursue Frodo across the river.

==Summary==

[[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] regains consciousness, still clutching [[The One Ring]]. [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]], [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] and [[Peregrin Took|Pippin]] are there.

{{quote|What has happened? Where is the pale king?|[[Frodo Baggins]]}}

Sam tells Frodo that all they saw were shadows rushing past them, and then Frodo was suddenly gone; after which they heard him shout something as though he was far away. Once the shadows passed, the [[Hobbits]] stumbled across his body lying unconscious in the grass, and feared he was dead.

[[Strider]] returns, saying that the [[Black Riders]] have disappeared. He expects them to regroup and attack again. After hearing Frodo's account, he immediately orders the Hobbits to prepare boiling water and keep Frodo warm. He explains that Frodo may have suffered a deadly wound that would subdue him to the Riders' will.

At dawn, Strider discovers a thin knife on the ground, with its tip broken off. He says that this was the knife that pierced Frodo, and that it is evil. The blade melts and vanishes like smoke in the sunlight. He sings a song over the dagger's hilt. He then produces a few leaves from his pouch, saying that he had found an [[Athelas]] plant not far away. Though it has healing powers, Strider fears it will barely help. He boils the leaves and applies them to Frodo's wounds. Frodo feels some relief, but discovers that he cannot move his arm at all, and is unable to walk.

Strider and the Hobbits decide to leave Weathertop as soon as possible. Once the sun is up, they load the immobilized Frodo onto [[Bill the Pony|their pony]], distributing the remaining supplies between them. The pony seems stronger than ever. They strike eastwards through the wilderness in silence. Though they encounter no Black Riders, they can hear distant wails, calling and answering.

After six days of marching, they reach the [[Last Bridge]] over the Hoarwell. Scouting ahead, Strider finds a shiny green beryl - an [[Elven]] jewel - though he cannot ascertain its meaning. Seeing no sign of a Black Rider ambush, he hurries the Hobbits across the bridge. As they climb into the hills, they begin to see ruins of walls and towers. Frodo is reminded of [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]]'s accounts of this region, remembering his story about the [[Stone-trolls]]. Strider says that these are the ruins of ancient [[Men|Mannish]] settlements which once belonged to the evil kingdom of [[Angmar]]; its shadow still lies here. Pippin asks how Strider knows so much lore.

{{quote|The heirs of Elendil do not forget all things past, and many more things than I can tell are remembered in Rivendell.|[[Strider]]}}

Frodo asks whether Strider has ever been to Rivendell. Strider answers that he once lived there, and still returns occasionally. He says his heart dwells there, but that it is not his fate to sit in peace.

On the tenth might of their journey from Weathertop, Frodo dreams that he is back in his garden at [[Bag End]], but everything is faint and dim. The only thing he sees clearly are tall shadows peering at him from behind the hedge.

The next morning, Strider discovers that they had strayed too far north, close to the [[Ettenmoors]]. As they veer southwards, the ground becomes difficult to climb, and eventually Frodo collapses in pain. Merry wonders whether Frodo could be cured in Rivendell. Sam doesn't understand why Frodo is still in danger, seeing as his wounds have practically closed already. Strider explains that the weapon of the enemy contains a sinister poison that he cannot drive out.

The party stops to rest near a small quarry. In his sleep, Frodo dreams of great, dark, winged shapes sweeping above him, ridden by all-seeing pursuers. In the morning, as they set out downhill, their pony displays remarkable skill in finding easy routes down steep slopes. Frodo seems a little better, though his eyesight begins to fade intermittently.

Pippin spots a path leading straight through the woods below. It appears to have been made by large creatures, as both trees and rocks had been broken to let it through. They follow the path into the woods. It soon passes in front of a door in a rocky hillside, hanging ajar off a single hinge. Strider, Merry and Sam force the door open, and discover a cave full of bones and broken earthenware. Strider concludes that this is a Troll cave.

As they continue, Pippin goes scouting ahead with Merry. They soon come running back, reporting that they'd seen trolls. Strider picks up a stick and they slowly advance. In a clearing, they find three huge Trolls, standing completely still. Strider walks up and commands them to wake, then breaks his stick against one of them. The Trolls do not react. The Hobbits are astonished. Frodo begins to laugh, realizing that these are the Stone-trolls from Bilbo's story, which he had never really believed until that point.

{{quote|You are forgetting not only your family history, but all you ever knew about trolls. It is broad daylight with a bright sun, and yet you come back trying to scare me with a tale of live trolls waiting for us in this glade! In any case you might have noticed that one of them has an old bird's nest behind his ear.|[[Strider]]}}

They eat a meal near the foot of one of the troll statues, and Merry suggests that someone sing. Eventually, Sam relents and sings them [[The Stone Troll|a song about a troll]] who stole a shinbone from a grave. After the song is done, Frodo reveals that Sam had made it up on the spot.

The party follows a road that they speculate had been used by Bilbo, [[Gandalf]] and the [[Thorin and Company|thirteen dwarves]]. Indeed, they soon find a stone covered in [[Dwarves|Dwarven]] runes, marking the spot where they buried the Trolls' treasure. When Merry asks Frodo wheher anything was left of Bilbo's share of that treasure, Frodo secretly wishes that Bilbo had brought home no treasure at all, alluding to The One Ring. He tells Merry that Bilbo had given all of the treasure away, since it came from robber Trolls.

At sundown, the party suddenly hears hoof-beats coming from behind, and takes cover. A figure with flowing golden hair, riding a white horse, appears on the road behind them. Strider leaps out with joy, and the rider dismounts.

{{quote|Ai na vedui Dúnadan! Mae govannen!|[[Glorfindel]]}}

Strider introduces the figure as [[Glorfindel]], an Elf who lives at Rivendell. Glorfindel greets Frodo, saying he was sent out to look for him. He had set out from Rivendell nine days earlier, after receiving news that "the Nine" (the Black Riders) were in the area and that Frodo was without Gandalf's protection. Gandalf had still not arrived in Rivendell by the time Glorfindel left. Seven days ago he crossed the Last Bridge, where he left the green beryl. He encountered three Black Riders and chased them away from the bridge. Two days ago he found the Hobbits' trail and followed it here. He warns that five Black Riders are behind them, and has no idea where the other four are.

Frodo collapses. Strider tells Glorfindel of his wounds, showing him the hilt of the evil dagger. Glorfindel lays his hands on Frodo's wound; Frodo feels little better, though Glorfindel does not seem hopeful. Glorfindel lifts Frodo up on [[Asfaloth|his horse]], saying that in case of emergency it will bear him forward with greater speed than any Black Rider could match. Frodo objects, not wanting to leave his friends behind to face the peril alone. Glorfindel reassures him that the Black Riders are only after him, not his friends.

The party redistributes the weight of their supplies, and makes haste onward through the night. They finally collapse of exhaustion. Glorfindel gives each of them a sip of a clear liquid he was carrying, which reinvigorates them. Later, they finally get a view of the Bruinen far ahead. They see no sign of the Black Riders. Glorfindel speaks to Strider in [[Elvish]].

The next morning, the party continues on with ever-greater exhaustion. Passing through a short tunnel, they begin hearing footsteps echoing all around them, following them. On the other side, still some distance from the Ford, the footfalls intensify and a strong wind suddenly blows around them.

{{quote|Fly! Fly! The enemy is upon us!|[[Glorfindel]]}}

Glorfindel's horse leaps forward, with the others doing the same. Four Black Riders appear behind them on the path, though they do not charge. Glorfindel orders Frodo to ride forward, but Frodo stops and looks back towards the motionless Black Riders, realizing they are commanding him to wait. Feeling a sudden rush of intense fear and hatred, he draws his sword, which glows red.

Glorfindel calls to his horse in Elvish.

{{quote|Noro lim, noro lim, Asfaloth!|[[Glorfindel]]}}

The horse breaks immediately into a full gallop, speeding onwards faster than the Black Riders can follow. A horrifying cry pierces the air, and the party is dismayed to see more Black Riders emerging from ambush, galloping ahead to cut Frodo off. Though he leaves the pursuers far behind, the two flankers stop ahead of him, and he sees their true forms, robed in white and grey. The horse Asfaloth does not show fear, breezing right past the Black Riders at full gallop. Frodo fades in and out of consciousness, but soon enough feels the horse wading across the Bruinen.

Asfaloth stops on the far side of the Ford as nine Riders appear at the edge of the water. Frodo raises his sword, commanding them to stop their pursuit and go back to [[Mordor]]. The Riders laugh at his command and call him to come back to Mordor with them.

In a last act of defiance, Frodo calls to Elbereth and Lúthien. The lead Rider, now halfway across the Ford, raises his hand. Frodo becomes unable to speak, and his sword shatters. Asfaloth rears up.

Just before the Black Riders finish crossing the ford, the river begins to swell and roar. A great deluge of water comes down from the mountainside, and Frodo can almost see white riders upon white horses with flowing manes in the great waves. The three Black Riders that were in the river are washed away.

Behind the remaining Black Riders on the other side of the ford, Frodo sees a shining white figure, followed by small forms waving red flames. The black horses suddenly go mad, running into the river and drowning themselves and their riders in it. At this, Frodo finally passes out.

[[Category:The Fellowship of the Ring chapters]]
[[fi:Pako Kahlaamolle (TSH)]]

Flight to the Ford

2023-07-29T06:29:57Z

Headrock:

{{chapter
| image=Ted Nasmith - At the Ford.jpg
| title=Flight to the Ford
| book=The Fellowship of the Ring
| number=12
| event=[[Glorfindel]] helps [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] escape the [[Nazgûl|Black Riders]].
| date=[[6 October|6]]-[[20 October]] {{TA|3018|n}}
| location=[[Ford of Bruinen]]
| previous=A Knife in the Dark
| next=Many Meetings
}}

'''Flight to the Ford''' is the twelfth and last chapter in the first book of ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.

In this chapter, [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] turns out to have been seriously wounded in the fight on [[Weathertop]]. He is treated by [[Strider]], and the party urgently makes for [[Rivendell]] in the hopes of curing him. They pass through the [[Trollshaws]] and meet [[Glorfindel]], who had been searching for them. They attempt to reach the [[Ford of Bruinen]], and the [[Black Riders]] drown trying to pursue Frodo across the river.

==Summary==

After having been stabbed in the shoulder by a [[Black Rider]] in the previous chapter, [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] regains consciousness, still clutching [[The One Ring]]. [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]], [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] and [[Peregrin Took|Pippin]] are there.

{{quote|What has happened? Where is the pale king?|[[Frodo Baggins]]}}

Sam tells Frodo that they have no idea what had happened: all they saw were shadows rushing past them, and then Frodo was suddenly gone; after which they heard him shout something as though he was far away. Once the shadows passed, the [[Hobbits]] stumbled across his body lying unconscious in the grass, and feared he was dead.

[[Strider]] returns, saying that the [[Black Riders]] have disappeared. He expects them to regroup and attack again. After hearing Frodo's account, he immediately orders the Hobbits to prepare boiling water and keep Frodo warm. He explains that Frodo may have suffered a deadly wound that would subdue him to the Riders' will. He runs off.

Strider returns again at dawn. In the pale light he discovers a piece of of the Black Rider's cloak, which Frodo had slashed off - though Strider adds that no blade could've harmed the Rider himself. He finds a thin knife on the ground, with its tip broken off. He says that this was the knife that pierced Frodo, and that it is evil. The blade melts and vanishes like smoke in the sunlight. Strider promises to do whatever he can to heal the wound, though it seems hopeless.

Strider sings a song over the dagger's hilt. He then produces a few leaves from his pouch, saying that he had found an [[Athelas]] plant not far away. Though it has healing powers, Strider fears it will barely help; but he's determined to try. He boils the leaves and applies them to Frodo's wounds. Frodo feels some relief, but discovers that he cannot move his arm at all. He is also unable to walk.

Strider and the Hobbits decide to leave Weathertop, as it is now less safe than the wilderness. Once the sun is up, they load the immobilized Frodo onto [[Bill the Pony|their pony]], distributing the remaining supplies between them. The pony seems stronger than ever. They strike eastwards through the wilderness in silence. Though they encounter no Black Riders, they can hear distant wails, calling and answering.

The party marches eastwards for five days, as Frodo's pain slowly returns, though he keeps it to himself. There is no further sign of the Black Riders. Eventually, they reach a rise and get a view of the rivers [[Hoarwell]] and [[Bruinen]] in the distance. Strider confesses that he has not yet planned how to cross them.

On the sixth day, they reach the [[Last Bridge]] over the Hoarwell. Scouting ahead, Strider finds a shiny green beryl - an [[Elven]] jewel - though he cannot ascertain its meaning. Seeing no sign of a Black Rider ambush, he hurries the Hobbits across the bridge. As they climb into the hills, they begin to see ruins of walls and towers. Frodo is reminded of [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]]'s accounts of this region, remembering his story about the [[Stone-trolls]].

Frodo asks Strider about the Trolls and the ruins. Strider says that Trolls do not build: these are the ruins of ancient [[Men|Mannish]] settlements which once belonged to the evil kingdom of [[Angmar]]; its shadow still lies here. Pippin asks how Strider knows so much lore.

{{quote|The heirs of Elendil do not forget all things past, and many more things than I can tell are remembered in Rivendell.|[[Strider]]}}

Frodo asks whether Strider has ever been to Rivendell. Strider answers that he once lived there, and still returns occasionally. He says his heart dwells there, but that it is not his fate to sit in peace.

On the tenth day of their journey from Weathertop, rain begins to fall and Strider worries that they might run out of provisions before reaching Rivendell. The party stops at a shallow cave in a cliffside, and Strider stands watch. When Frodo finally manages to fall asleep, he dreams that he is back in his garden at [[Bag End]], but everything is faint and dim. The only thing he sees clearly are tall shadows peering at him from behind the hedge.

In the morning, Strider climbs to the top of the hill to take a look around, and discovers that they had strayed too far north, close to the [[Ettenmoors]]. As they veer southwards, the ground becomes difficult to climb, and eventually Frodo collapses in pain. Merry wonders whether Frodo could be cured in Rivendell. Sam doesn't understand why Frodo is still in danger, seeing as his wounds have practically closed already. Strider explains that the weapon of the enemy contains a sinister poison that he cannot drive out. He begs Sam not to lose hope.

The party stops to rest near a small quarry. In his sleep, Frodo dreams of great, dark, winged shapes sweeping above him, ridden by all-seeing pursuers. In the morning, Strider and Merry go scouting and discover that they are finally on the right course towards the Bruinen. As they set out downhill, their pony displays remarkable skill in finding easy routes down steep slopes. The general mood improves, and even Frodo seems a little better, though his eyesight begins to fade intermittently.

Pippin spots a path leading straight through the woods below. It appears to have been made by large creatures, as both trees and rocks had been broken to let it through. They follow the path into the woods. It soon passes in front of a door in a rocky hillside, hanging ajar off a single hinge. Strider, Merry and Sam force the door open, and discover a cave full of bones and broken earthenware. Strider concludes that this is a Troll cave. Pippin is alarmed, but Strider reassures him that this cave has been abandoned for a long time.

As they continue, Pippin wants to show his courage to Strider, and goes scouting ahead with Merry. They soon come running back, reporting that they'd seen trolls. Strider picks up a stick and they slowly advance. In a clearing, they find three huge Trolls, standing completely still. Strider walks up and commands them to wake, then breaks his stick against one of them. The Trolls do not react. The Hobbits are astonished. Frodo begins to laugh, realizing that these are the Stone-trolls from Bilbo's story, which he had never really believed until that point.

{{quote|You are forgetting not only your family history, but all you ever knew about trolls. It is broad daylight with a bright sun, and yet you come back trying to scare me with a tale of live trolls waiting for us in this glade! In any case you might have noticed that one of them has an old bird's nest behind his ear.|[[Strider]]}}

The encounter lifts their spirits, and they all laugh. They eat a meal near the foot of one of the troll statues, and Merry suggests that someone sing. Eventually, Sam relents and sings them [[The Stone Troll|a song about a troll]] who stole a shinbone from a grave. After the song is done, Frodo reveals that Sam had made it up on the spot. He is impressed, saying that Sam has grown from a conspirator into a jester, and may one day end up a wizard or a warrior. Sam says he wants to be neither.

The party follows a road that they speculate had been used by Bilbo, [[Gandalf]] and the [[Thorin and Company|thirteen dwarves]]. Indeed, they soon find a stone covered in [[Dwarves|Dwarven]] runes, marking the spot where they buried the Trolls' treasure. When Merry asks Frodo wheher anything was left of Bilbo's share of that treasure, Frodo secretly wishes that Bilbo had brought home no treasure at all, alluding to The One Ring. He tells Merry that Bilbo had given all of the treasure away, since it came from robber Trolls.

At sundown, the party looks for a place to rest, when they suddenly hear hoof-beats behind them. They take cover, but soon realize that these do not sound like Black Rider hooves. A figure with flowing golden hair, riding a white horse, appears on the road behind them. Strider leaps out with joy, and the rider dismounts.

{{quote|Ai na vedui Dúnadan! Mae govannen!|[[Glorfindel]]}}

Strider introduces the figure as [[Glorfindel]], an Elf who lives at Rivendell. Glorfindel greets Frodo, saying he was sent out to look for him. He had set out from Rivendell nine days earlier, after receiving news that "the Nine" (the Black Riders) were in the area and that Frodo was without Gandalf's protection. Gandalf had still not arrived in Rivendell by the time Glorfindel left. Seven days ago he crossed the Last Bridge, where he left the green beryl. He encountered three Black Riders and chased them away from the bridge. Two days ago he found the Hobbits' trail and followed it here. He warns that five Black Riders are behind them, and has no idea where the other four are.

Frodo collapses, and Strider tells Glorfindel of his wounds, showing him the hilt of the evil dagger. Glorfindel lays his hands on Frodo's wound, and Frodo feels little better, though Glorfindel seems grim. Glorfindel lifts Frodo up on [[Asfaloth|his horse]], saying that in case of emergency it will bear him forward with greater speed than any Black Rider could match. Frodo objects, not wanting to leave his friends behind to face the peril alone. Glorfindel reassures him that the Black Riders are only after him, not his friends.

The party redistributes the weight of their supplies, and makes haste onward through the night. They finally collapse of exhaustion and sleep through to the late morning. Glorfindel gives each of them a sip of a clear liquid he was carrying, which reinvigorates them and greatly enhances the satisfaction from their remaining stale food. After a few hours' rest, the party continues on, and finally gets a view of the Bruinen far ahead. They see no sign of the Black Riders. Glorfindel and Strider speak together in [[Elvish]].

The next morning, the party continues on with ever-greater exhaustion. Passing through a short tunnel, they begin hearing footsteps echoing all around them, following them. On the other side, still some distance from the Ford, the footfalls intensify and a strong wind suddenly blows around them.

{{quote|Fly! Fly! The enemy is upon us!|[[Glorfindel]]}}

Glorfindel's horse leaps forward, with the others doing the same. Four Black Riders appear behind them on the path, though they do not charge. Glorfindel orders Frodo to ride forward, but Frodo stops and looks back towards the motionless Black Riders, realizing they are commanding him to wait. Feeling a sudden rush of intense fear and hatred, he draws his sword, which glows red.

Glorfindel calls to his horse in Elvish.

{{quote|Noro lim, noro lim, Asfaloth!|[[Glorfindel]]}}

The horse breaks immediately into a full gallop, speeding onwards faster than the Black Riders can follow. A horrifying cry pierces the air, and the party is dismayed to see more Black Riders emerging from ambush, galloping ahead to cut Frodo off. Though he leaves the pursuers far behind, the two flankers stop ahead of him, and he sees their true forms, robed in white and grey. The horse Asfaloth does not show fear, breezing right past the Black Riders at full gallop. Soon enough Frodo feels the horse wading across the Bruinen.

Asfaloth stops on the far side of the Ford as nine Riders appear at the edge of the water. Frodo feels as though they could cross and catch him at any moment. He raises his sword, commanding them to stop their pursuit and go back to [[Mordor]]. The Riders laugh at his command and call him to come back to Mordor with them.

In a last act of defiance, Frodo calls to Elbereth and Lúthien. The lead Rider, now halfway across the Ford, raises his hand. Frodo becomes unable to speak, and his sword shatters. Asfaloth rears up.

Just before the Black Riders finish crossing the ford, the river begins to rise and roar. A great deluge of water comes down from the mountainside, and Frodo can almost see white riders upon white horses with flowing manes in the great waves. The three Black Riders that were in the river are washed away.

Frodo looks at the remaining black horses on the other bank, and behind them he sees a shining white figure, followed by small forms waving red flames. The remaining Black Riders' horses suddenly go mad, running into the river and drowning in it. At this, Frodo finally passes out.

[[Category:The Fellowship of the Ring chapters]]
[[fi:Pako Kahlaamolle (TSH)]]

Flight to the Ford

2023-07-29T03:55:06Z

Headrock:

{{chapter
| image=Ted Nasmith - At the Ford.jpg
| title=Flight to the Ford
| book=The Fellowship of the Ring
| number=12
| event=[[Glorfindel]] helps [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] escape the [[Nazgûl|Black Riders]].
| date=[[6 October|6]]-[[20 October]] {{TA|3018|n}}
| location=[[Ford of Bruinen]]
| previous=A Knife in the Dark
| next=Many Meetings
}}

'''Flight to the Ford''' is the twelfth and last chapter in the first book of ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.

In this chapter, [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] turns out to have been seriously wounded in the fight on [[Weathertop]]. He is treated by [[Strider]], and the party urgently makes for [[Rivendell]] in the hopes of curing him. They pass through the [[Trollshaws]] and meet [[Glorfindel]], who had been searching for them. They attempt to cross the [[Ford of Bruinen]], and the [[Black Riders]] drown trying to pursue Frodo across the river.

==Summary==

After having been stabbed in the shoulder by a [[Black Rider]] in the previous chapter, [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] regains consciousness, still clutching [[The One Ring]]. [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]], [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] and [[Peregrin Took|Pippin]] are there.

{{quote|What has happened? Where is the pale king?|[[Frodo Baggins]]}}

Sam tells Frodo that they have no idea what had happened: all they saw were shadows rushing past them, and then Frodo was suddenly gone; after which they heard him shout something as though he was far away. Once the shadows passed, the [[Hobbits]] stumbled across his body lying unconscious in the grass, and feared he was dead.

[[Strider]] returns, saying that the [[Black Riders]] have disappeared. He expects them to regroup and attack again. After hearing Frodo's account, he immediately orders the Hobbits to prepare boiling water and keep Frodo warm. He explains that Frodo may have suffered a deadly wound that would subdue him to the Riders' will. He runs off.

Strider returns again at dawn. In the pale light he discovers a piece of of the Black Rider's cloak, which Frodo had slashed off - though Strider adds that no blade could've harmed the Rider himself. He finds a thin knife on the ground, with its tip broken off. He says that this was the knife that pierced Frodo, and that it is evil. The blade melts and vanishes like smoke in the sunlight. Strider promises to do whatever he can to heal the wound, though it seems hopeless.

Strider sings a song over the dagger's hilt. He then produces a few leaves from his pouch, saying that he had found an [[Athelas]] plant not far away. Though it has healing powers, Strider fears it will barely help; but he's determined to try. He boils the leaves and applies them to Frodo's wounds. Frodo feels some relief, but discovers that he cannot move his arm at all. He is also unable to walk.

Strider and the Hobbits decide to leave Weathertop, as it is now less safe than the wilderness. Once the sun is up, they load the immobilized Frodo onto [[Bill the Pony|their pony]], distributing the remaining supplies between them. The pony seems stronger than ever. They strike eastwards through the wilderness in silence. Though they encounter no Black Riders, they can hear distant wails, calling and answering.

The party marches eastwards for five days, as Frodo's pain slowly returns, though he keeps it to himself. There is no further sign of the Black Riders. Eventually, they reach a rise and get a view of the rivers [[Hoarwell]] and [[Bruinen]] in the distance. Strider confesses that he has not yet planned how to cross them.

On the sixth day, they reach the [[Last Bridge]] over the Hoarwell. Scouting ahead, Strider finds a shiny green beryl - an [[Elven]] jewel - though he cannot ascertain its meaning. Seeing no sign of a Black Rider ambush, he hurries the Hobbits across the bridge. As they climb into the hills, they begin to see ruins of walls and towers. Frodo is reminded of [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]]'s accounts of this region, remembering his story about the [[Stone-trolls]].

Frodo asks Strider about the Trolls and the ruins. Strider says that Trolls do not build: these are the ruins of ancient [[Men|Mannish]] settlements which once belonged to the evil kingdom of [[Angmar]]; its shadow still lies here. Pippin asks how Strider knows so much lore.

{{quote|The heirs of Elendil do not forget all things past, and many more things than I can tell are remembered in Rivendell.|[[Strider]]}}

Frodo asks whether Strider has ever been to Rivendell. Strider answers that he once lived there, and still returns occasionally. He says his heart dwells there, but that it is not his fate to sit in peace.

On the tenth day of their journey from Weathertop, rain begins to fall and Strider worries that they might run out of provisions before reaching Rivendell. The party stops at a shallow cave in a cliffside, and Strider stands watch. When Frodo finally manages to fall asleep, he dreams that he is back in his garden at [[Bag End]], but everything is faint and dim. The only thing he sees clearly are tall shadows peering at him from behind the hedge.

In the morning, Strider climbs to the top of the hill to take a look around, and discovers that they had strayed too far north, close to the [[Ettenmoors]]. As they veer southwards, the ground becomes difficult to climb, and eventually Frodo collapses in pain. Merry wonders whether Frodo could be cured in Rivendell. Sam doesn't understand why Frodo is still in danger, seeing as his wounds have practically closed already. Strider explains that the weapon of the enemy contains a sinister poison that he cannot drive out. He begs Sam not to lose hope.

The party stops to rest near a small quarry. In his sleep, Frodo dreams of great, dark, winged shapes sweeping above him, ridden by all-seeing pursuers. In the morning, Strider and Merry go scouting and discover that they are finally on the right course towards the Bruinen. As they set out downhill, their pony displays remarkable skill in finding easy routes down steep slopes. The general mood improves, and even Frodo seems a little better, though his eyesight begins to fade intermittently.

Pippin spots a path leading straight through the woods below. It appears to have been made by large creatures, as both trees and rocks had been broken to let it through. They follow the path into the woods. It soon passes in front of a door in a rocky hillside, hanging ajar off a single hinge. Strider, Merry and Sam force the door open, and discover a cave full of bones and broken earthenware. Strider concludes that this is a Troll cave. Pippin is alarmed, but Strider reassures him that this cave has been abandoned for a long time.

As they continue, Pippin wants to show his courage to Strider, and goes scouting ahead with Merry. They soon come running back, reporting that they'd seen trolls. Strider picks up a stick and they slowly advance. In a clearing, they find three huge Trolls, standing completely still. Strider walks up and commands them to wake, then breaks his stick against one of them. The Trolls do not react. The Hobbits are astonished. Frodo begins to laugh, realizing that these are the Stone-trolls from Bilbo's story, which he had never really believed until that point.

{{quote|You are forgetting not only your family history, but all you ever knew about trolls. It is broad daylight with a bright sun, and yet you come back trying to scare me with a tale of live trolls waiting for us in this glade! In any case you might have noticed that one of them has an old bird's nest behind his ear.|[[Strider]]}}

The encounter lifts their spirits, and they all laugh. They eat a meal near the foot of one of the troll statues, and Merry suggests that someone sing. Eventually, Sam relents and sings them [[The Stone Troll|a song about a troll]] who stole a shinbone from a grave. After the song is done, Frodo reveals that Sam had made it up on the spot. He is impressed, saying that Sam has grown from a conspirator into a jester, and may one day end up a wizard or a warrior. Sam says he wants to be neither.

The party follows a road that they speculate had been used by Bilbo, [[Gandalf]] and the [[Thorin and Company|thirteen dwarves]]. Indeed, they soon find a stone covered in [[Dwarves|Dwarven]] runes, marking the spot where they buried the Trolls' treasure. When Merry asks Frodo wheher anything was left of Bilbo's share of that treasure, Frodo secretly wishes that Bilbo had brought home no treasure at all, alluding to The One Ring. He tells Merry that Bilbo had given all of the treasure away, since it came from robber Trolls.

At sundown, the party looks for a place to rest, when they suddenly hear hoof-beats behind them. They take cover, but soon realize that these do not sound like Black Rider hooves. A figure with flowing golden hair, riding a white horse, appears on the road behind them. Strider leaps out with joy, and the rider dismounts.

{{quote|Ai na vedui Dúnadan! Mae govannen!|[[Glorfindel]]}}

Strider introduces the figure as [[Glorfindel]], an Elf who lives at Rivendell. Glorfindel greets Frodo, saying he was sent out to look for him. He had set out from Rivendell nine days earlier, after receiving news that "the Nine" (the Black Riders) were in the area and that Frodo was without Gandalf's protection. Gandalf had still not arrived in Rivendell by the time Glorfindel left. Seven days ago he crossed the Last Bridge, where he left the green beryl. He encountered three Black Riders and chased them away from the bridge. Two days ago he found the Hobbits' trail and followed it here. He warns that five Black Riders are behind them, and has no idea where the other four are.

Frodo collapses, and Strider tells Glorfindel of his wounds, showing him the hilt of the evil dagger. Glorfindel lays his hands on Frodo's wound, and Frodo feels little better, though Glorfindel seems grim. Glorfindel lifts Frodo up on [[Asfaloth|his horse]], saying that in case of emergency it will bear him forward with greater speed than any Black Rider could match. Frodo objects, not wanting to leave his friends behind to face the peril alone. Glorfindel reassures him that the Black Riders are only after him, not his friends.

The party redistributes the weight of their supplies, and makes haste onward through the night. They finally collapse of exhaustion and sleep through to the late morning. Glorfindel gives each of them a sip of a clear liquid he was carrying, which reinvigorates them and greatly enhances the satisfaction from their remaining stale food. After a few hours' rest, the party continues on, and finally gets a view of the Bruinen far ahead. They see no sign of the Black Riders. Glorfindel and Strider speak together in [[Elvish]].

The next morning, the party continues on with ever-greater exhaustion. Passing through a short tunnel, they begin hearing footsteps echoing all around them, following them. On the other side, still some distance from the Ford, the footfalls intensify and a strong wind suddenly blows around them.

{{quote|Fly! Fly! The enemy is upon us!|[[Glorfindel]]}}

Glorfindel's horse leaps forward, with the others doing the same. Four Black Riders appear behind them on the path, though they do not charge. Glorfindel orders Frodo to ride forward, but Frodo stops and looks back towards the motionless Black Riders, realizing they are commanding him to wait. Feeling a sudden rush of intense fear and hatred, he draws his sword, which glows red.

Glorfindel calls to his horse in Elvish.

{{quote|Noro lim, noro lim, Asfaloth!|[[Glorfindel]]}}

The horse breaks immediately into a full gallop, speeding onwards faster than the Black Riders can follow. A horrifying cry pierces the air, and the party is dismayed to see more Black Riders emerging from ambush, galloping ahead to cut Frodo off. Though he leaves the pursuers far behind, the two flankers stop ahead of him, and he sees their true forms, robed in white and grey. The horse Asfaloth does not show fear, breezing right past the Black Riders at full gallop. Soon enough Frodo feels the horse wading across the Bruinen.

Asfaloth stops on the far side of the Ford as nine Riders appear at the edge of the water. Frodo feels as though they could cross and catch him at any moment. He raises his sword, commanding them to stop their pursuit and go back to [[Mordor]]. The Riders laugh at his command and call him to come back to Mordor with them.

In a last act of defiance, Frodo calls to Elbereth and Lúthien. The lead Rider, now halfway across the Ford, raises his hand. Frodo becomes unable to speak, and his sword shatters. Asfaloth rears up.

Just before the Black Riders finish crossing the ford, the river begins to rise and roar. A great deluge of water comes down from the mountainside, and Frodo can almost see white riders upon white horses with flowing manes in the great waves. The three Black Riders that were in the river are washed away.

Frodo looks at the remaining black horses on the other bank, and behind them he sees a shining white figure, followed by small forms waving red flames. The remaining Black Riders' horses suddenly go mad, running into the river and drowning in it. At this, Frodo finally passes out.

[[Category:The Fellowship of the Ring chapters]]
[[fi:Pako Kahlaamolle (TSH)]]

Flight to the Ford

2023-07-29T03:52:11Z

Headrock:

{{chapter
| image=Ted Nasmith - At the Ford.jpg
| title=Flight to the Ford
| book=The Fellowship of the Ring
| number=12
| event=[[Glorfindel]] helps [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] escape the [[Nazgûl|Black Riders]].
| date=[[6 October|6]]-[[20 October]] {{TA|3018|n}}
| location=[[Ford of Bruinen]]
| previous=A Knife in the Dark
| next=Many Meetings
}}

'''Flight to the Ford''' is the twelfth and last chapter in the first book of ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.

In this chapter, [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] turns out to have been seriously wounded in the fight on [[Weathertop]]. He is treated by [[Strider]], and the party urgently makes for [[Rivendell]] in the hopes of curing him. They pass through the [[Trollshaws]] and meet [[Glorfindel]], who had been searching for them. They attempt to cross the [[Ford of Bruinen]], and the [[Black Riders]] drown trying to pursue Frodo across the river.

==Summary==

After having been stabbed in the shoulder by a [[Black Rider]] in the previous chapter, [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] regains consciousness, still clutching [[The One Ring]]. [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]], [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] and [[Peregrin Took|Pippin]] are there.

{{quote|What has happened? Where is the pale king?|[[Frodo Baggins]]}}

Sam tells Frodo that they have no idea what had happened: all they saw were shadows rushing past them, and then Frodo was suddenly gone; after which they heard him shout something as though he was far away. Once the shadows passed, the [[Hobbits]] stumbled across his body lying unconscious in the grass, and feared he was dead.

[[Strider]] returns, saying that the [[Black Riders]] have disappeared. He expects them to regroup and attack again. After hearing Frodo's account, he immediately orders the Hobbits to prepare boiling water and keep Frodo warm. He explains that Frodo may have suffered a deadly wound that would subdue him to the Riders' will. He runs off.

Strider returns again at dawn. In the pale light he discovers a piece of of the Black Rider's cloak, which Frodo had slashed off - though Strider adds that no blade could've harmed the Rider himself. He finds a thin knife on the ground, with its tip broken off. He says that this was the knife that pierced Frodo, and that it is evil. The blade melts and vanishes like smoke in the sunlight. Strider promises to do whatever he can to heal the wound, though it seems hopeless.

Strider sings a song over the dagger's hilt. He then produces a few leaves from his pouch, saying that he had found an [[Athelas]] plant not far away. Though it has healing powers, Strider fears it will barely help; but he's determined to try. He boils the leaves and applies them to Frodo's wounds. Frodo feels some relief, but discovers that he cannot move his arm at all. He is also unable to walk.

Strider and the Hobbits decide to leave Weathertop, as it is now less safe than the wilderness. Once the sun is up, they load the immobilized Frodo onto [[Bill the Pony|their pony]], distributing the remaining supplies between them. The pony seems stronger than ever. They strike eastwards through the wilderness in silence. Though they encounter no Black Riders, they can hear distant wails, calling and answering.

The party marches eastwards for five days, as Frodo's pain slowly returns, though he keeps it to himself. There is no further sign of the Black Riders. Eventually, they reach a rise and get a view of the rivers [[Hoarwell]] and [[Bruinen]] in the distance. Strider confesses that he has not yet planned how to cross them.

On the sixth day, they reach the [[Last Bridge]] over the Hoarwell. Scouting ahead, Strider finds a shiny green beryl - an [[Elven]] jewel - though he cannot ascertain its meaning. Seeing no sign of a Black Rider ambush, he hurries the Hobbits across the bridge. As they climb into the hills, they begin to see ruins of walls and towers. Frodo is reminded of [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]]'s accounts of this region, remembering his story about the [[Stone-trolls]].

Frodo asks Strider about the Trolls and the ruins. Strider says that Trolls do not build: these are the ruins of ancient [[Men|Mannish]] settlements which once belonged to the evil kingdom of [[Angmar]]; its shadow still lies here. Pippin asks how Strider knows so much lore.

{{quote|The heirs of Elendil do not forget all things past, and many more things than I can tell are remembered in Rivendell.|[[Strider]]}}

Frodo asks whether Strider has ever been to Rivendell. Strider answers that he once lived there, and still returns occasionally. He says his heart dwells there, but that it is not his fate to sit in peace.

On the tenth day of their journey from Weathertop, rain begins to fall and Strider worries that they might run out of provisions before reaching Rivendell. The party stops at a shallow cave in a cliffside, and Strider stands watch. When Frodo finally manages to fall asleep, he dreams that he is back in his garden at [[Bag End]], but everything is faint and dim. The only thing he sees clearly are tall shadows peering at him from behind the hedge.

In the morning, Strider climbs to the top of the hill to take a look around, and discovers that they had strayed too far north, close to the [[Ettenmoors]]. As they veer southwards, the ground becomes difficult to climb, and eventually Frodo collapses in pain. Merry wonders whether Frodo could be cured in Rivendell. Sam doesn't understand why Frodo is still in danger, seeing as his wounds have practically closed already. Strider explains that the weapon of the enemy contains a sinister poison that he cannot drive out. He begs Sam not to lose hope.

The party stops to rest near a small quarry. In his sleep, Frodo dreams of great, dark, winged shapes sweeping above him, ridden by all-seeing pursuers. In the morning, Strider and Merry go scouting and discover that they are finally on the right course towards the Bruinen. As they set out downhill, their pony displays remarkable skill in finding easy routes down steep slopes. The general mood improves, and even Frodo seems a little better, though his eyesight begins to fade intermittently.

Pippin spots a path leading straight through the woods below. It appears to have been made by large creatures, as both trees and rocks had been broken to let it through. They follow the path into the woods. It soon passes in front of a door in a rocky hillside, hanging ajar off a single hinge. Strider, Merry and Sam force the door open, and discover a cave full of bones and broken earthenware. Strider concludes that this is a Troll cave. Pippin is alarmed, but Strider reassures him that this cave has been abandoned for a long time.

As they continue, Pippin wants to show his courage to Strider, and goes scouting ahead with Merry. They soon come running back, reporting that they'd seen trolls. Strider picks up a stick and they slowly advance. In a clearing, they find three huge Trolls, standing completely still. Strider walks up and commands them to wake, then breaks his stick against one of them. The Trolls do not react. The Hobbits are astonished. Frodo begins to laugh, realizing that these are the Stone-trolls from Bilbo's story, which he had never really believed until that point.

{{quote|You are forgetting not only your family history, but all you ever knew about trolls. It is broad daylight with a bright sun, and yet you come back trying to scare me with a tale of live trolls waiting for us in this glade! In any case you might have noticed that one of them has an old bird's nest behind his ear.|[[Strider]]}}

The encounter lifts their spirits, and they all laugh. They eat a meal near the foot of one of the troll statues, and Merry suggests that someone sing. Eventually, Sam relents and sings them [[The Stone Troll|a song about a troll]] who stole a shinbone from a grave. After the song is done, Frodo reveals that Sam had made it up on the spot. He is impressed, saying that Sam has grown from a conspirator into a jester, and may one day end up a wizard or a warrior. Sam says he wants to be neither.

The party follows a road that they speculate had been used by Bilbo, [[Gandalf]] and the [[Thorin and Company|thirteen dwarves]]. Indeed, they soon find a stone covered in [[Dwarves|Dwarven]] runes, marking the spot where they buried the Trolls' treasure. When Merry asks Frodo wheher anything was left of Bilbo's share of that treasure, Frodo secretly wishes that Bilbo had brought home no treasure at all, alluding to The One Ring. He tells Merry that Bilbo had given all of the treasure away, since it came from robber Trolls.

At sundown, the party looks for a place to rest, when they suddenly hear hoof-beats behind them. They take cover, but soon realize that these do not sound like Black Rider hooves. A figure with flowing golden hair, riding a white horse, appears on the road behind them. Strider leaps out with joy, and the rider dismounts.

{{quote|Ai na vedui Dúnadan! Mae govannen!|[[Glorfindel]]}}

Strider introduces the figure as [[Glorfindel]], an Elf who lives at Rivendell. Glorfindel greets Frodo, saying he was sent out to look for him. He had set out from Rivendell nine days earlier, after receiving news that "the Nine" (the Black Riders) were in the area and that Frodo was without Gandalf's protection. Seven days ago he crossed the Last Bridge, where he left the green beryl. He encountered three Black Riders and chased them away from the bridge. Two days ago he found the Hobbits' trail and followed it here. He warns that five Black Riders are behind them, and has no idea where the other four are.

Frodo collapses, and Strider tells Glorfindel of his wounds, showing him the hilt of the evil dagger. Glorfindel lays his hands on Frodo's wound, and Frodo feels little better, though Glorfindel seems grim. Glorfindel lifts Frodo up on [[Asfaloth|his horse]], saying that in case of emergency it will bear him forward with greater speed than any Black Rider could match. Frodo objects, not wanting to leave his friends behind to face the peril alone. Glorfindel reassures him that the Black Riders are only after him, not his friends.

The party redistributes the weight of their supplies, and makes haste onward through the night. They finally collapse of exhaustion and sleep through to the late morning. Glorfindel gives each of them a sip of a clear liquid he was carrying, which reinvigorates them and greatly enhances the satisfaction from their remaining stale food. After a few hours' rest, the party continues on, and finally gets a view of the Bruinen far ahead. They see no sign of the Black Riders. Glorfindel and Strider speak together in [[Elvish]].

The next morning, the party continues on with ever-greater exhaustion. Passing through a short tunnel, they begin hearing footsteps echoing all around them, following them. On the other side, still some distance from the Ford, the footfalls intensify and a strong wind suddenly blows around them.

{{quote|Fly! Fly! The enemy is upon us!|[[Glorfindel]]}}

Glorfindel's horse leaps forward, with the others doing the same. Four Black Riders appear behind them on the path, though they do not charge. Glorfindel orders Frodo to ride forward, but Frodo stops and looks back towards the motionless Black Riders, realizing they are commanding him to wait. Feeling a sudden rush of intense fear and hatred, he draws his sword, which glows red.

Glorfindel calls to his horse in Elvish.

{{quote|Noro lim, noro lim, Asfaloth!|[[Glorfindel]]}}

The horse breaks immediately into a full gallop, speeding onwards faster than the Black Riders can follow. A horrifying cry pierces the air, and the party is dismayed to see more Black Riders emerging from ambush, galloping ahead to cut Frodo off. Though he leaves the pursuers far behind, the two flankers stop ahead of him, and he sees their true forms, robed in white and grey. The horse Asfaloth does not show fear, breezing right past the Black Riders at full gallop. Soon enough Frodo feels the horse wading across the Bruinen.

Asfaloth stops on the far side of the Ford as nine Riders appear at the edge of the water. Frodo feels as though they could cross and catch him at any moment. He raises his sword, commanding them to stop their pursuit and go back to [[Mordor]]. The Riders laugh at his command and call him to come back to Mordor with them.

In a last act of defiance, Frodo calls to Elbereth and Lúthien. The lead Rider, now halfway across the Ford, raises his hand. Frodo becomes unable to speak, and his sword shatters. Asfaloth rears up.

Just before the Black Riders finish crossing the ford, the river begins to rise and roar. A great deluge of water comes down from the mountainside, and Frodo can almost see white riders upon white horses with flowing manes in the great waves. The three Black Riders that were in the river are washed away.

Frodo looks at the remaining black horses on the other bank, and behind them he sees a shining white figure, followed by small forms waving red flames. The remaining Black Riders' horses suddenly go mad, running into the river and drowning in it. At this, Frodo finally passes out.

[[Category:The Fellowship of the Ring chapters]]
[[fi:Pako Kahlaamolle (TSH)]]

Flight to the Ford

2023-07-29T01:35:27Z

Headrock: Not as long as I'd feared, but still as long as the summary for the previous chapter (both are ~20 pages long). This one, however, probably has a lot of fat that can be cut. I would welcome assistance, but please use a gentle hand.

{{chapter
| image=Ted Nasmith - At the Ford.jpg
| title=Flight to the Ford
| book=The Fellowship of the Ring
| number=12
| event=[[Glorfindel]] helps [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] escape the [[Nazgûl|Black Riders]].
| date=[[6 October|6]]-[[20 October]] {{TA|3018|n}}
| location=[[Ford of Bruinen]]
| previous=A Knife in the Dark
| next=Many Meetings
}}

'''Flight to the Ford''' is the twelfth and last chapter in the first book of ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.

In this chapter, [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] turns out to have been seriously wounded in the fight on [[Weathertop]]. He is treated by [[Strider]], and the party urgently makes for [[Rivendell]] in the hopes of curing him. They pass through the [[Trollshaws]] and meet [[Glorfindel]], who had been searching for them. They attempt to cross the [[Ford of Bruinen]], and the [[Black Riders]] drown trying to pursue Frodo across the river.

==Summary==

After having been stabbed in the shoulder by a [[Black Rider]] in the previous chapter, [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] regains consciousness, still clutching [[The One Ring]]. [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]], [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] and [[Peregrin Took|Pippin]] are there.

{{quote|What has happened? Where is the pale king?|[[Frodo Baggins]]}}

Sam tells Frodo that they have no idea what had happened: all they saw were shadows rushing past them, and then Frodo was suddenly gone; after which they heard him shout something as though he was far away. Once the shadows passed, the [[Hobbits]] stumbled across his body lying unconscious in the grass, and feared he was dead.

[[Strider]] returns, saying that the [[Black Riders]] have disappeared. He expects them to regroup and attack again. After hearing Frodo's account, he immediately orders the Hobbits to prepare boiling water and keep Frodo warm. He explains that Frodo may have suffered a deadly wound that would subdue him to the Riders' will. He runs off.

Strider returns again at dawn. In the pale light he discovers a piece of of the Black Rider's cloak, which Frodo had slashed off - though Strider adds that no blade could've harmed the Rider himself. He finds a thin knife on the ground, with its tip broken off. He says that this was the knife that pierced Frodo, and that it is evil. The blade melts and vanishes like smoke in the sunlight. Strider promises to do whatever he can to heal the wound, though it seems hopeless.

Strider sings a song over the dagger's hilt. He then produces a few leaves from his pouch, saying that he had found an [[Athelas]] plant not far away. Though it has healing powers, Strider fears it will barely help; but he's determined to try. He boils the leaves and applies them to Frodo's wounds. Frodo feels some relief, but discovers that he cannot move his arm at all. He is also unable to walk.

Strider and the Hobbits decide to leave Weathertop, as it is now less safe than the wilderness. Once the sun is up, they load the immobilized Frodo onto [[Bill the Pony|their pony]], distributing the remaining supplies between them. The pony seems stronger than ever. They strike eastwards through the wilderness in silence. Though they encounter no Black Riders, they can hear distant wails, calling and answering.

The party marches eastwards for five days, as Frodo's pain slowly returns, though he keeps it to himself. There is no further sign of the Black Riders. Eventually, they reach a rise and get a view of the rivers [[Hoarwell]] and [[Bruinen]] in the distance. Strider confesses that he has not yet planned how to cross them.

On the sixth day, they reach the [[Last Bridge]] over the Hoarwell. Scouting ahead, Strider finds a shiny green beryl - an [[Elven]] jewel - though he cannot ascertain its meaning. Seeing no sign of a Black Rider ambush, he hurries the Hobbits across the bridge. As they climb into the hills, they begin to see ruins of walls and towers. Frodo is reminded of [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]]'s accounts of this region, remembering his story about the [[Stone-trolls]].

Frodo asks Strider about the Trolls and the ruins. Strider says that Trolls do not build: these are the ruins of ancient [[Men|Mannish]] settlements which once belonged to the evil kingdom of [[Angmar]]; its shadow still lies here. Pippin asks how Strider knows so much lore.

{{quote|The heirs of Elendil do not forget all things past, and many more things than I can tell are remembered in Rivendell.|[[Strider]]}}

Frodo asks whether Strider has ever been to Rivendell. Strider answers that he once lived there, and still returns occasionally. He says his heart dwells there, but that it is not his fate to sit in peace.

On the tenth day of their journey from Weathertop, rain begins to fall and Strider worries that they might run out of provisions before reaching Rivendell. The party stops at a shallow cave in a cliffside, and Strider stands watch. When Frodo finally manages to fall asleep, he dreams that he is back in his garden at [[Bag End]], but everything is faint and dim. The only thing he sees clearly are tall shadows peering at him from behind the hedge.

In the morning, Strider climbs to the top of the hill to take a look around, and discovers that they had strayed too far north, close to the [[Ettenmoors]]. As they veer southwards, the ground becomes difficult to climb, and eventually Frodo collapses in pain. Merry wonders whether Frodo could be cured in Rivendell. Sam doesn't understand why Frodo is still in danger, seeing as his wounds have practically closed already. Strider explains that the weapon of the enemy contains a sinister poison that he cannot drive out. He begs Sam not to lose hope.

The party stops to rest near a small quarry. In his sleep, Frodo dreams of great, dark, winged shapes sweeping above him, ridden by all-seeing pursuers. In the morning, Strider and Merry go scouting and discover that they are finally on the right course towards the Bruinen. As they set out downhill, their pony displays remarkable skill in finding easy routes down steep slopes. The general mood improves, and even Frodo seems a little better, though his eyesight begins to fade intermittently.

Pippin spots a path leading straight through the woods below. It appears to have been made by large creatures, as both trees and rocks had been broken to let it through. They follow the path into the woods. It soon passes in front of a door in a rocky hillside, hanging ajar off a single hinge. Strider, Merry and Sam force the door open, and discover a cave full of bones and broken earthenware. Strider concludes that this is a Troll cave. Pippin is alarmed, but Strider reassures him that this cave has been abandoned for a long time.

As they continue, Pippin wants to show his courage to Strider, and goes scouting ahead with Merry. They soon come running back, reporting that they'd seen trolls. Strider picks up a stick and they slowly advance. In a clearing, they find three huge Trolls, standing completely still. Strider walks up and commands them to wake, then breaks his stick against one of them. The Trolls do not react. The Hobbits are astonished. Frodo begins to laugh, realizing that these are the Stone-trolls from Bilbo's story, which he had never really believed until that point.

{{quote|You are forgetting not only your family history, but all you ever knew about trolls. It is broad daylight with a bright sun, and yet you come back trying to scare me with a tale of live trolls waiting for us in this glade! In any case you might have noticed that one of them has an old bird's nest behind his ear.|[[Strider]]}}

The encounter lifts their spirits, and they all laugh. They eat a meal near the foot of one of the troll statues, and Merry suggests that someone sing. Eventually, Sam relents and sings them [[The Stone Troll|a song about a troll]] who stole a shinbone from a grave. After the song is done, Frodo reveals that Sam had made it up on the spot. He is impressed, saying that Sam has grown from a conspirator into a jester, and may one day end up a wizard or a warrior. Sam says he wants to be neither.

The party follows a road that they speculate had been used by Bilbo, [[Gandalf]] and the [[Thorin and Company|thirteen dwarves]]. Indeed, they soon find a stone covered in [[Dwarves|Dwarven]] runes, marking the spot where they buried the Trolls' treasure. When Merry asks Frodo wheher anything was left of Bilbo's share of that treasure, Frodo secretly wishes that Bilbo had brought home no treasure at all, alluding to The One Ring. He tells Merry that Bilbo had given all of the treasure away, since it came from robber Trolls.

At sundown, the party looks for a place to rest, when they suddenly hear hoof-beats behind them. They take cover, but soon realize that these do not sound like Black Rider hooves. A figure with flowing golden hair, riding a white horse, appears on the road behind them. Strider leaps out with joy, and the rider dismounts.

{{quote|Ai na vedui Dúnadan! Mae govannen!|[[Glorfindel]]}}

Strider introduces the figure as [[Glorfindel]], an Elf who lives at Rivendell. Glorfindel greets Frodo, saying he was sent out to look for him. He says he'd set out from Rivendell nine days earlier, after receiving news that "the Nine" (the Black Riders) were in the area and that Frodo was without Gandalf's protection. Seven days ago he crossed the Last Bridge, where he left the green beryl. He encountered three Black Riders and chased them away from the bridge. Two days ago he found the Hobbits' trail and followed it here. He warns that five Black Riders are behind them, and has no idea where the other four are.

Frodo collapses, and Strider tells Glorfindel of his wounds, showing him the hilt of the evil dagger. Glorfindel lays his hands on Frodo's wound, and Frodo feels little better, though Glorfindel seems grim. Glorfindel lifts Frodo up on [[Asfaloth|his horse]], saying that in case of emergency it will bear him forward with a speed greater than any Black Rider could match. Frodo objects, not wanting to leave his friends behind to face the peril alone. Glorfindel reassures him that the Black Riders are only after him, not his friends.

The party redistributes the weight of their supplies, and makes haste onward through the night. They finally collapse of exhaustion and sleep through to the late morning. Glorfindel gives each of them a sip of a clear liquid he was carrying, which reinvigorates them and greatly enhances the satisfaction from their remaining stale food. After a few hours' rest, the party continues on, and finally gets a view of the Bruinen far ahead. They see no sign of the Black Riders. Glorfindel and Strider speak together in [[Elvish]].

The next morning, the party continues on with ever-greater exhaustion. Passing through a short tunnel, they begin hearing footsteps echoing all around them, following them. On the other side, still some distance from the Ford, the footfalls intensify and a strong wind suddenly blows around them.

{{quote|Fly! Fly! The enemy is upon us!|[[Glorfindel]]}}

Glorfindel's horse leaps forward, with the others doing the same. Four Black Riders appear behind them on the path, though they do not charge. Glorfindel orders Frodo to ride forward, but Frodo stops and looks back towards the motionless Black Riders, realizing they are commanding him to wait. Feeling a sudden rush of intense fear and hatred, he draws his sword, which glows red.

Glorfindel calls to his horse in Elvish.

{{quote|Noro lim, noro lim, Asfaloth!|[[Glorfindel]]}}

The horse breaks immediately into a full gallop, speeding onwards faster than the Black Riders can follow. A horrifying cry pierces the air, and the party is dismayed to see more Black Riders emerging from ambush, galloping ahead to cut Frodo off. Though he leaves the pursuers far behind, the two flankers stop ahead of him, and he sees their true forms, robed in white and grey. The horse Asfaloth does not show fear, breezing right past the Black Riders at full gallop. Soon enough Frodo feels the horse wading across the Bruinen.

Asfaloth stops on the far side of the Ford as nine Riders appear at the edge of the water. Frodo feels as though they could cross and catch him at any moment. He raises his sword, commanding them to stop their pursuit and go back to [[Mordor]]. The Riders laugh at his command and call him to come back to Mordor with them.

In a last act of defiance, Frodo calls to Elbereth and Lúthien. The lead Rider, now halfway across the Ford, raises his hand. Frodo becomes unable to speak, and his sword shatters. Asfaloth rears up.

Just before the Black Riders finish crossing the ford, the river begins to rise and roar. A great deluge of water comes down from the mountainside, and Frodo can almost see white riders upon white horses with flowing manes in the great waves. The three Black Riders that were in the river are washed away.

Frodo looks at the remaining black horses on the other bank, and behind them he sees a shining white figure, followed by small forms waving red flames. The remaining Black Riders' horses suddenly go mad, running into the river and drowning in it. At this, Frodo finally passes out.

[[Category:The Fellowship of the Ring chapters]]
[[fi:Pako Kahlaamolle (TSH)]]

A Knife in the Dark

2023-07-28T08:44:25Z

Headrock:

{{chapter
| image=Ted Nasmith - Fire on Weathertop.jpg
| title=A Knife in the Dark
| book=The Fellowship of the Ring
| number=11
| event=[[Fredegar Bolger|Fatty]] is attacked at [[Crickhollow]]; [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] and [[Strider (Aragorn)|Strider]] leave and are attacked at [[Weathertop]].
| date=[[30 September]]-[[6 October]] {{TA|3018|n}}
| location=[[Crickhollow]], [[Bree]], and [[Weathertop]]
| previous=Strider (chapter)
| next=Flight to the Ford
}}

'''A Knife in the Dark''' is the eleventh chapter of the first book in ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.

In this chapter, [[Fredegar Bolger|Fatty Bolger]] is attacked by [[Black Riders]] at [[Crickhollow]], but the [[Bucklanders]] scare them away. The Black Riders attack the [[Prancing Pony]], but cannot find the [[Hobbits]]. The Hobbits lose their ponies, but purchase [[Bill the Pony]] to replace them. They make their way to [[Weathertop]] together with [[Strider]], where Black Riders attack them in force. [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] is stabbed with a [[Morgul-knife]].

==Summary==

Back at [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]]'s new "home" in [[Crickhollow]], [[Fredegar Bolger|Fatty Bolger]] has been having an uneasy sensation all day. That night, he sees dark shadows in the trees, and his gate opens and closes of its own accord. Three dark figures arrive at the house, surrounding it on all sides. One figure demands he open the door, and then all three break inside. Suddenly, a horn blows in the distance.

{{quote|AWAKE! FEAR! FIRE! FOES! AWAKE!|The [[Horn-call of Buckland]]}}

Fatty had escaped the house before the [[Black Riders]] broke in, and ran a whole mile to call for help. The [[Bucklanders]], fearing an invasion from the [[Old Forest]], sounded the alarm [[Fell Winter (Third Age)|for the first time in a hundred years]]. The Black Riders flee Crickhollow, and we are told that they now realize [[The One Ring]] has already left the area.

Back in [[Bree]], [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] has trouble sleeping. He dreams again of a wind in the east, and the gallop of hooves. He wakes up just before dawn, hearing a horn blowing far off in the distance.

[[Strider]] leads the [[Hobbits]] to their rooms, where they discover that the doors have been bashed in and their beds have been slashed and ransacked. They wake [[Barliman Butterbur]], who is appalled at this turn of events. Frodo, [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]], [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] and [[Pippin Took|Pippin]] prepare to leave with Strider as soon as possible, skipping breakfast. Barliman goes to fetch their ponies, but discovers that the stable doors had been opened and the ponies are gone. Strider reassures them that ponies would not have sped up their journey by much, on the roads he intends to take.

Frodo inquires whether more ponies could be purchased in the village. Barliman replies that the chances are low, but sends his assistants out to look anyway. Strider laments that they will no longer be able to leave Bree unnoticed, but the Hobbits are glad to have a chance to eat breakfast while they wait. The wait lasts three hours.

Barliman's assistant [[Bob]] finally returns with bad news: He could find only [[Bill the Pony|one pony for sale]], at a very steep price, belonging to [[Bill Ferny]].

{{quote|A poor old half-starved creature it is, but he won't part with it for less than thrice its worth, seeing how you're placed, not if I knows Bill Ferny.|[[Bob]]}}

Frodo worries that the pony would bolt right back to Bill Ferny with all their belongings. Strider is confident that no animal would want to return to Bill Ferny. Bill's price is 12 silver pennies, which Barliman Butterbur offers to pay out of his own pocket, giving Merry another 18 silvers for his lost ponies. We're told that Merry's lost ponies were later found by [[Tom Bombadil]], one having been stolen and the others having wandered across [[Bree-land]]. Tom collected them and returned them to Barliman, who ultimately benefited from his generosity.

The other guests at the inn are outraged to find that some of their animals had also escaped. However, they soon discover that the southerner who had conferred with Bill Ferny has also disappeared, and the blame quickly falls on him. When Barliman chastises the southerners for bringing a thief with them, it turns out that none of them had actually arrived with him nor knew who he was.

Due to the events and commotion of the previous night, many people come to see the Hobbits leave Bree. Strider decides to lead the Hobbits out the main road, as leaving into the wilderness would only arouse more suspicion. Frodo gives a heartfelt farewell to Barliman Butterbur and his loyal assistants.

The Hobbits make their way out of Bree. In the window of the last house on the road, Frodo spots the southerner peeking out at them. Outside the house is Bill Ferny, who sneers at Strider, calling him "Longshanks". He warns the Hobbits not to trust Strider. Strider does not reply, but Sam throws an apple he'd been eating at Ferny's face.

Several people follow the Hobbits a short way out of the village, but quickly turn back. The party passes the Hobbit village of [[Staddle]], and shortly after that Strider takes them off the road and into the wilderness. Pippin complains about short cuts, citing the troubles they'd caused the Hobbits previously. Strider reassures him:

{{quote|Ah, but you had not got me with you then. My cuts, short or long, don't go wrong.|[[Strider]]}}

At first, Strider leads the Hobbits on a winding path to throw off any pursuit. The next day, he straightens their course eastward, and soon they reach the [[Midgewater Marshes]]. Midges begin tormenting them as they make their way slowly across the marsh. The incessant bites and the sound of [[Neekerbreekers|unknown bog-creatures]] keeps them up at night.

On the night of [[3 October]], Frodo wakes up to see flashes of light far away in the east. Strider has no idea what they are, describing them only as "lightning that leaps up from the hill-tops". He maintains a vigil over the camp that whole night.

On [[4 October]], the party leaves the Marshes and spots in the distance a strange, conical hill with a flat top. Strider calls it [[Weathertop]] - the halfway point between Bree and [[Rivendell]]. Strider considers heading straight towards it, though he's unsure what they might find there. Frodo says he assumed that Gandalf would be waiting for them there, but Strider says that this is unlikely. He points out that the chance of both Gandalf and the party reaching Weathertop at the same time is slim; and also that the [[Black Riders]] will likely make their way to the hill if they can't find the Hobbits elsewhere. He warns that some birds may have been employed as their spies. He concludes that the safest course would be to approach the hill from an unexpected direction.

On the morning of [[5 October]], the Hobbits have a relatively meager breakfast. Pippin notices that Frodo seems "twice the Hobbit that he had been". Frodo, however, feels much thinner, and worries that if he continues thinning he might "turn into a wraith". Strider is very disturbed by this, and urgently commands him not to speak of such things.

That night, the party reaches the [[Weather Hills]] north of Weathertop. On the morning of [[6 October]] they turn south, following a path leading down to Weathertop that seems to have been specially designed to keep travelers hidden from view. The boulders lining the path remind Merry of the Standing Stones in the [[Barrow-downs]]. This prompts Strider to explain the history of Weathertop. He says that the hill was once a magnificent watch-tower built by [[Men of the West]] as part of their defensive lines against [[Angmar]]. He names the tower "Amon Sûl", and says that it was almost completely destroyed. He demonstrates an impressive knowledge of ancient lore, reporting that [[Elendil]] was said to have stood there watching for the coming of [[Gil-Galad]] in the days of the [[Last Alliance]].

Merry asks who Gil-Galad was. Strider seems to be lost in thought about this, but suddenly Sam begins singing [[The Fall of Gil-galad|part of a song about Gil-Galad]], amazing everyone. Sam says he learned the song from [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]], who had also taught him how to read. Sam claims that Bilbo wrote the song himself. Strider corrects him, saying that the song was originally written in an ancient tongue, which Bilbo must have translated; he is pleasantly surprised. Sam adds that he wouldn't learn the rest of the song because it was about going to [[Mordor]]. Pippin hopes aloud that they won't have to go to Mordor. Strider commands him not to speak that name out loud again.

The party finally reaches Weathertop, and locates a sheltered dell on its western side. Sam and Pippin remain there with the pony, while the others make their way to the top. As Strider said earlier, the watch-tower is burnt and ruined, and there is no sign of Gandalf. Strider says that Gandalf rides very fast, and might have reached Weathertop before they did. Indeed, Strider soon finds an unusual rock bearing small scratches, which he interprets as the [[Angerthas]] rune for "G" followed by the number 3 - indicating that Gandalf had been there on 3 October. Since Gandalf has left only a few cryptic marks, Strider concludes that he must have been in quite a hurry to leave the tower, and worried that someone sinister might find the message.

Strider observes fresh burn marks upon the stones, and speculates that Gandalf must have fought something in the tower on 3 October - explaining the lights they had observed in the east that night. He says the party will have to make its way to Rivendell without Gandalf. Merry asks how far Rivendell is. Strider is unsure; he estimates that it would have taken him about 12 days to reach the [[Ford of Bruinen]] by road, but since the party will likely have to stay off the road, it might take at least a fortnight.

Frodo feels homesick as he looks at the road headed back west from the tower. Suddenly, he notices two black specks on the road, moving westward, and three other black specks moving eastward to meet them. He tells Strider, who drops quickly to the ground, pulling Frodo with him. They creep up to the edge of the hill to observe the specks as evening falls.

{{quote|The enemy is here!|[[Strider]]}}

Strider, Frodo and Merry return to the dell. Meanwhile, Sam and Pippin have explored the area, and found signs of a recent campsite next to a spring, with fresh boot marks and bundles of firewood. Strider examines these, concluding that Rangers had been there a few days earlier and left that firewood, though the tracks have mostly been ruined by Sam and Pippin. He also notices many heavy bootprints, which disturb him.

Sam suggests leaving Weathertop as soon as possible. Strider considers this, but concludes that there is nowhere better to go, especially at night when they will surely be spotted leaving. At the Hobbits' inquiries, he explains that the Black Riders can "see" vague shapes, except in the bright light of the sun; can smell the blood of living creatures; and can feel them in their vicinity as keenly as the Hobbits had felt unease at the presence of the Riders. He rues his mistake of wandering carelessly on the hill-top. Finally, he adds that [[The One Ring]] attracts the Riders. Frodo seems to lose hope of ever escaping the Riders.

{{quote|There is still hope. You are not alone. Let us take this wood that is set ready for the fire as a sign. There is little shelter or defence here, but fire shall serve for both. Sauron can put fire to his evil use, as he can all things, but these Riders do not love it, and fear those who wield it. Fire is our friend in the wilderness.|[[Strider]]}}

The party sets up a campfire deep in the dell, and sits down to eat. Frodo is worried that their food stores won't last until Rivendell, but Strider reassures him that food can be gathered from the wild. He bids the Hobbits think of the tables at [[Elrond]]'s house.

As the night darkens, Strider begins telling the Hobbits tales of times long past. They wonder how old Strider really is. They ask him again about Gil-Galad, and he replies that Frodo might actually know some of the story. Frodo confirms that he had heard it from Gandalf, and begins telling the tale. Strider quickly stops him, saying that he should not speak of it while servants of the Enemy are nearby, bidding the Hobbits wait until they reach Rivendell.

Instead, Strider tells the Hobbits the tale of [[Tinúviel]], though he claims that only Elrond now remembers the tale properly. After a long pause, he sings the [[Song of Beren and Lúthien]]. After completing the song's many verses, he explains the tale in plain words, telling of the meeting between the [[Men|mortal man]] [[Beren]] and the [[Elf|elvish princess]] [[Lúthien]] during the [[First Age]]; the war against the [[Great Enemy]]; and the retrieval of one of the stolen [[Silmarils]]. He tells of how Beren died at the hands of the [[Carcharoth|Wolf of Angband]], and how Lúthien gave up her immortality in order to join him in the afterlife. Their union, Strider adds, gave birth to a [[Half-elven]] lineage from which Elrond is descended, as well as [[Eärendil]] who sired the kings of [[Númenor]].

Strider seems greatly affected by his own story. As he finishes, the moon rises behind him, and the Hobbits spot a small, dark shape at the top of the hill. They suddenly feel very uneasy. Sam and Merry scout the edge of the dell, but soon return and report that they suddenly felt very afraid and that Merry spotted two or three dark shapes moving towards them. The party prepares for a fight, as Strider commands them to pick up longer sticks from the fire.

As the party huddles around the fire, facing outwards, dark shapes begin appearing around the lip of the dell. Soon, the party is surrounded by four tall black figures, seeming darker than the darkness behind them. Pippin and Merry cower on the ground in terror, but Sam stays close to Frodo. Frodo suddenly feels a powerful temptation to put on the Ring. Despite remembering every reason not to, he puts the Ring on his finger.

Now under the Ring's effect, Frodo can see the Black Riders in their true form: five tall figures with white faces, merciless eyes, and grey hair, wearing long robes and silver helmets, and wielding swords. Three Riders rush towards him, and he pulls out his sword, which seems to burn bright red. Though two stop in their tracks at this sight, one continues to advance: a taller figure wearing a crown, holding a long-sword and a knife.

Frodo throws himself on the ground, crying "[[Elven Hymn to Elbereth|O Elbereth! Gilthoniel!]]", and swinging his sword at the crowned figure's feet. The figure shrieks in pain, and then stabs Frodo in the left shoulder.

Before passing out in pain, Frodo glimpses Strider leaping at the figure with flaming brands of wood in each hand. Frodo drops his sword, grabs the Ring, and pulls it off his finger, holding it very tightly.

[[Category:The Fellowship of the Ring chapters|Knife in the Dark]]
[[fi:Veitsi yössä (TSH)]]

A Knife in the Dark

2023-07-28T02:04:49Z

Headrock:

{{chapter
| image=Ted Nasmith - Fire on Weathertop.jpg
| title=A Knife in the Dark
| book=The Fellowship of the Ring
| number=11
| event=[[Fredegar Bolger|Fatty]] is attacked at [[Crickhollow]]; [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] and [[Strider (Aragorn)|Strider]] leave and are attacked at [[Weathertop]].
| date=[[30 September]]-[[6 October]] {{TA|3018|n}}
| location=[[Crickhollow]], [[Bree]], and [[Weathertop]]
| previous=Strider (chapter)
| next=Flight to the Ford
}}

'''A Knife in the Dark''' is the eleventh chapter of the first book in ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.

In this chapter, [[Fredegar Bolger|Fatty Bolger]] is attacked by [[Black Riders]] at [[Crickhollow]], but the [[Bucklanders]] scare them away. The Black Riders attack the [[Prancing Pony]], but cannot find the [[Hobbits]]. The Hobbits lose their ponies, but purchase [[Bill the Pony]] to replace them. They make their way to [[Weathertop]] together with [[Strider]], where Black Riders attack them in force. [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] is stabbed with a [[Morgul-knife]].

==Summary==

Back at [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]]'s new "home" in [[Crickhollow]], [[Fredegar Bolger|Fatty Bolger]] has been having an uneasy sensation all day. That night, he sees dark shadows in the trees, and his gate opens and closes of its own accord. Three dark figures arrive at the house, surrounding it on all sides. One figure demands he open the door, and then all three break inside. Suddenly, a horn blows in the distance.

{{quote|AWAKE! FEAR! FIRE! FOES! AWAKE!|The [[Horn-call of Buckland]]}}

Fatty had escaped the house before the [[Black Riders]] broke in, and ran a whole mile to call for help. The [[Bucklanders]], fearing an invasion from the [[Old Forest]], sounded the alarm [[Fell Winter (Third Age)|for the first time in a hundred years]]. The Black Riders flee Crickhollow, and we are told that they now realize [[The One Ring]] has already left the area.

Back in [[Bree]], [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] has trouble sleeping. He dreams again of a wind in the east, and the gallop of hooves. He wakes up just before dawn, hearing a horn blowing far off in the distance.

[[Strider]] leads the [[Hobbits]] to their rooms, where they discover that the doors have been bashed in and their beds have been slashed and ransacked. They wake [[Barliman Butterbur]], who is appalled at this turn of events. Frodo, [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]], [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] and [[Pippin Took|Pippin]] prepare to leave with Strider as soon as possible, skipping breakfast. Barliman goes to fetch their ponies, but discovers that the stable doors had been opened and the ponies are gone. Strider reassures them that ponies would not have sped up their journey by much, on the roads he intends to take.

Frodo inquires whether more ponies could be purchased in the village. Barliman replies that the chances are low, but sends his assistants out to look anyway. Strider laments that they will no longer be able to leave Bree unnoticed, but the Hobbits are glad to have a chance to eat breakfast while they wait. The wait lasts three hours.

Barliman's assistant [[Bob]] finally returns with bad news: He could find only [[Bill the Pony|one pony for sale]], at a very steep price, belonging to [[Bill Ferny]].

{{quote|A poor old half-starved creature it is, but he won't part with it for less than thrice its worth, seeing how you're placed, not if I knows Bill Ferny.|[[Bob]]}}

Frodo worries that the pony would bolt right back to Bill Ferny with all their belongings. Strider is confident that no animal would want to return to Bill Ferny. Bill's price is 12 silver pennies, which Barliman Butterbur offers to pay out of his own pocket, giving Merry another 18 silvers for his lost ponies. We're told that Merry's lost ponies were later found by [[Tom Bombadil]], one having been stolen and the others having wandered across [[Bree-land]]. Tom collected them and returned them to Barliman, who ultimately benefited from his generosity.

The other guests at the inn are outraged to find that some of their animals had also escaped. However, they soon discover that the southerner who had conferred with Bill Ferny has also disappeared, and the blame quickly falls on him. When Barliman chastises the southerners for bringing a thief with them, it turns out that none of them had actually arrived with him nor knew who he was.

Due to the events and commotion of the previous night, many people come to see the Hobbits leave Bree. Strider decides to lead the Hobbits out the main road, as leaving into the wilderness would only arouse more suspicion. Frodo gives a heartfelt farewell to Barliman Butterbur and his loyal assistants.

The Hobbits make their way out of Bree. In the window of the last house on the road, Frodo spots the southerner peeking out at them. Outside the house is Bill Ferny, who sneers at Strider, calling him "Longshanks". He warns the Hobbits not to trust Strider. Strider does not reply, but Sam throws an apple he'd been eating at Ferny's face.

Several people follow the Hobbits a short way out of the village, but quickly turn back. The party passes the Hobbit village of [[Staddle]], and shortly after that Strider takes them off the road and into the country. Pippin complains about short cuts, citing the troubles they'd caused the Hobbits previously. Strider reassures him:

{{quote|Ah, but you had not got me with you then. My cuts, short or long, don't go wrong.|[[Strider]]}}

At first, Strider leads the Hobbits on a winding path to throw off any pursuit. The next day, he straightens their course eastward, and soon they reach the [[Midgewater Marshes]]. Midges begin tormenting them as they make their way slowly across the marsh. The incessant bites and the sound of [[Neekerbreekers|unknown bog-creatures]] keeps them up at night.

On the night of [[3 October]], Frodo wakes up to see flashes of light far away in the east. Strider has no idea what they are, describing them only as "lightning that leaps up from the hill-tops". He maintains a vigil over the camp that whole night.

On [[4 October]], the party leaves the Marshes and spots in the distance a strange, conical hill with a flat top. Strider calls it [[Weathertop]] - the halfway point between Bree and [[Rivendell]]. Strider considers heading straight towards it, though he's unsure what they might find there. Frodo says he assumed that Gandalf would be waiting for them there, but Strider says that this is unlikely. He points out that the chance of both Gandalf and the party reaching Weathertop at the same time is slim; and also that the [[Black Riders]] will likely make their way to the hill if they can't find the Hobbits elsewhere. He warns that some birds may have been employed as their spies. He concludes that the safest course would be to approach the hill from an unexpected direction.

On the morning of [[5 October]], the Hobbits have a relatively meager breakfast. Pippin notices that Frodo seems "twice the Hobbit that he had been". Frodo, however, feels much thinner, and worries that if he continues thinning he might "turn into a wraith". Strider is very disturbed by this, and urgently commands him not to speak of such things.

That night, the party reaches the [[Weather Hills]] north of Weathertop. On the morning of [[6 October]] they turn south, following a path leading down to Weathertop that seems to have been specially designed to keep travelers hidden from view. The boulders lining the path remind Merry of the Standing Stones in the [[Barrow-downs]]. This prompts Strider to explain the history of Weathertop. He says that the hill was once a magnificent watch-tower built by [[Men of the West]] as part of their defensive lines against [[Angmar]]. He names the tower "Amon Sûl", and says that it was almost completely destroyed. He demonstrates an impressive knowledge of ancient lore, reporting that [[Elendil]] was said to have stood there watching for the coming of [[Gil-Galad]] in the days of the [[Last Alliance]].

Merry asks who Gil-Galad was. Strider seems to be lost in thought about this, but suddenly Sam begins singing [[The Fall of Gil-galad|part of a song about Gil-Galad]], amazing everyone. Sam says he learned the song from [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]], who had also taught him how to read. Sam claims that Bilbo wrote the song himself. Strider corrects him, saying that the song was originally written in an ancient tongue, which Bilbo must have translated; he is pleasantly surprised. Sam adds that he wouldn't learn the rest of the song because it was about going to [[Mordor]]. Pippin hopes aloud that they won't have to go to Mordor. Strider commands him not to speak that name out loud again.

The party finally reaches Weathertop, and locates a sheltered dell on its western side. Sam and Pippin remain there with the pony, while the others make their way to the top. As Strider said earlier, the watch-tower is burnt and ruined, and there is no sign of Gandalf. Strider says that Gandalf rides very fast, and might have reached Weathertop before they did. Indeed, Strider soon finds an unusual rock bearing small scratches, which he interprets as the [[Angerthas]] rune for "G" followed by the number 3 - indicating that Gandalf had been there on 3 October. Since Gandalf has left only a few cryptic marks, Strider concludes that he must have been in quite a hurry to leave the tower, and worried that someone sinister might find the message.

Strider observes fresh burn marks upon the stones, and speculates that Gandalf must have fought something in the tower on 3 October - explaining the lights they had observed in the east that night. He says the party will have to make its way to Rivendell without Gandalf. Merry asks how far Rivendell is. Strider is unsure; he estimates that it would have taken him about 12 days to reach the [[Ford of Bruinen]] by road, but since the party will likely have to stay off the road, it might take at least a fortnight.

Frodo feels homesick as he looks at the road headed back west from the tower. Suddenly, he notices two black specks on the road, moving westward, and three other black specks moving eastward to meet them. He tells Strider, who drops quickly to the ground, pulling Frodo with him. They creep up to the edge of the hill to observe the specks as evening falls.

{{quote|The enemy is here!|[[Strider]]}}

Strider, Frodo and Merry return to the dell. Meanwhile, Sam and Pippin have explored the area, and found signs of a recent campsite next to a spring, with fresh boot marks and bundles of firewood. Strider examines these, concluding that Rangers had been there a few days earlier and left that firewood, though the tracks have mostly been ruined by Sam and Pippin. He also notices many heavy bootprints, which disturb him.

Sam suggests leaving Weathertop as soon as possible. Strider considers this, but concludes that there is nowhere better to go, especially at night when they will surely be spotted leaving. At the Hobbits' inquiries, he explains that the Black Riders can "see" vague shapes, except in the bright light of the sun; can smell the blood of living creatures; and can feel them in their vicinity as keenly as the Hobbits had felt unease at the presence of the Riders. He rues his mistake of wandering carelessly on the hill-top. Finally, he adds that [[The One Ring]] attracts the Riders. Frodo seems to lose hope of ever escaping the Riders.

{{quote|There is still hope. You are not alone. Let us take this wood that is set ready for the fire as a sign. There is little shelter or defence here, but fire shall serve for both. Sauron can put fire to his evil use, as he can all things, but these Riders do not love it, and fear those who wield it. Fire is our friend in the wilderness.|[[Strider]]}}

The party sets up a campfire deep in the dell, and sits down to eat. Frodo is worried that their food stores won't last until Rivendell, but Strider reassures him that food can be gathered from the wild. He bids the Hobbits think of the tables at [[Elrond]]'s house.

As the night darkens, Strider begins telling the Hobbits tales of times long past. They wonder how old Strider really is. They ask him again about Gil-Galad, and he replies that Frodo might actually know some of the story. Frodo confirms that he had heard it from Gandalf, and begins telling the tale. Strider quickly stops him, saying that he should not speak of it while servants of the Enemy are nearby, bidding the Hobbits wait until they reach Rivendell.

Instead, Strider tells the Hobbits the tale of [[Tinúviel]], though he claims that only Elrond now remembers the tale properly. After a long pause, he sings the [[Song of Beren and Lúthien]]. After completing the song's many verses, he explains the tale in plain words, telling of the meeting between the [[Men|mortal man]] [[Beren]] and the [[Elf|elvish princess]] [[Lúthien]] during the [[First Age]]; the war against the [[Great Enemy]]; and the retrieval of one of the stolen [[Silmarils]]. He tells of how Beren died at the hands of the [[Carcharoth|Wolf of Angband]], and how Lúthien gave up her immortality in order to join him in the afterlife. Their union, Strider adds, gave birth to a [[Half-elven]] lineage from which Elrond is descended, as well as [[Eärendil]] who sired the kings of [[Númenor]].

Strider seems greatly affected by his own story. As he finishes, the moon rises behind him, and the Hobbits spot a small, dark shape at the top of the hill. They suddenly feel very uneasy. Sam and Merry scout the edge of the dell, but soon return and report that they suddenly felt very afraid and that Merry spotted two or three dark shapes moving towards them. The party prepares for a fight, as Strider commands them to pick up longer sticks from the fire.

As the party huddles around the fire, facing outwards, dark shapes begin appearing around the lip of the dell. Soon, the party is surrounded by four tall black figures, seeming darker than the darkness behind them. Pippin and Merry cower on the ground in terror, but Sam stays close to Frodo. Frodo suddenly feels a powerful temptation to put on the Ring. Despite remembering every reason not to, he puts the Ring on his finger.

Now under the Ring's effect, Frodo can see the Black Riders in their true form: five tall figures with white faces, merciless eyes, and grey hair, wearing long robes and silver helmets, and wielding swords. Three Riders rush towards him, and he pulls out his sword, which seems to burn bright red. Though two stop in their tracks at this sight, one continues to advance: a taller figure wearing a crown, holding a long-sword and a knife.

Frodo throws himself on the ground, crying "[[Elven Hymn to Elbereth|O Elbereth! Gilthoniel!]]", and swinging his sword at the crowned figure's feet. The figure shrieks in pain, and then stabs Frodo in the left shoulder.

Before passing out in pain, Frodo glimpses Strider leaping at the figure with flaming brands of wood in each hand. Frodo drops his sword, grabs the Ring, and pulls it off his finger, holding it very tightly.

[[Category:The Fellowship of the Ring chapters|Knife in the Dark]]
[[fi:Veitsi yössä (TSH)]]

A Knife in the Dark

2023-07-28T01:58:25Z

Headrock: Link to Weather Hills

{{chapter
| image=Ted Nasmith - Fire on Weathertop.jpg
| title=A Knife in the Dark
| book=The Fellowship of the Ring
| number=11
| event=[[Fredegar Bolger|Fatty]] is attacked at [[Crickhollow]]; [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] and [[Strider (Aragorn)|Strider]] leave and are attacked at [[Weathertop]].
| date=[[30 September]]-[[6 October]] {{TA|3018|n}}
| location=[[Crickhollow]], [[Bree]], and [[Weathertop]]
| previous=Strider (chapter)
| next=Flight to the Ford
}}

'''A Knife in the Dark''' is the eleventh chapter of the first book in ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.

In this chapter, [[Fredegar Bolger|Fatty Bolger]] is attacked by [[Black Riders]] at [[Crickhollow]], but the [[Bucklanders]] scare them away. The Black Riders attack the [[Prancing Pony]], but cannot find the [[Hobbits]]. The Hobbits lose their ponies, but purchase [[Bill the Pony]] to replace them. They make their way to [[Weathertop]] together with [[Strider]], where Black Riders attack them in force. [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] is stabbed with a [[Morgul-knife]].

==Summary==

Back at [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]]'s new "home" in [[Crickhollow]], [[Fredegar Bolger|Fatty Bolger]] has been having an uneasy sensation all day. That night, he sees dark shadows in the trees, and his gate opens and closes of its own accord. Three dark figures arrive at the house, surrounding it on all sides. One figure demands he open the door, and then all three break inside. Suddenly, a horn blows in the distance.

{{quote|AWAKE! FEAR! FIRE! FOES! AWAKE!|The [[Horn-call of Buckland]]}}

Fatty had escaped the house before the [[Black Riders]] broke in, and ran a whole mile to call for help. The [[Bucklanders]], fearing an invasion from the [[Old Forest]], sounded the alarm [[Fell Winter (Third Age)|for the first time in a hundred years]]. The Black Riders flee Crickhollow, and we are told that they now realize [[The One Ring]] has already left the area.

Back in [[Bree]], [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] has trouble sleeping. He dreams again of a wind in the east, and the gallop of hooves. He wakes up just before dawn, hearing a horn blowing far off in the distance.

[[Strider]] leads the [[Hobbits]] to their rooms, where they discover that the doors have been bashed in and their beds have been slashed and ransacked. They wake [[Barliman Butterbur]], who is appalled at this turn of events. Frodo, [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]], [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] and [[Pippin Took|Pippin]] prepare to leave with Strider as soon as possible, skipping breakfast. Barliman goes to fetch their ponies, but discovers that the stable doors had been opened and the ponies are gone. Strider reassures them that ponies would not have sped up their journey by much, on the roads he intends to take.

Frodo inquires whether more ponies could be purchased in the village. Barliman replies that the chances are low, but sends his assistants out to look anyway. Strider laments that they will no longer be able to leave Bree unnoticed, but the Hobbits are glad to have a chance to eat breakfast while they wait. The wait lasts three hours.

Barliman's assistant [[Bob]] finally returns with bad news: He could find only [[Bill the Pony|one pony for sale]], at a very steep price, belonging to [[Bill Ferny]].

{{quote|A poor old half-starved creature it is, but he won't part with it for less than thrice its worth, seeing how you're placed, not if I knows Bill Ferny.|[[Bob]]}}

Frodo worries that the pony would bolt right back to Bill Ferny with all their belongings. Strider is confident that no animal would want to return to Bill Ferny. Bill's price is 12 silver pennies, which Barliman Butterbur offers to pay out of his own pocket, giving Merry another 18 silvers for his lost ponies. We're told that Merry's lost ponies were later found by [[Tom Bombadil]], one having been stolen and the others having wandered across [[Bree-land]]. Tom collected them and returned them to Barliman, who ultimately benefited from his generosity.

The other guests at the inn are outraged to find that some of their animals had also escaped. However, they soon discover that the southerner who had conferred with Bill Ferny has also disappeared, and the blame quickly falls on him. When Barliman chastises the southerners for bringing a thief with them, it turns out that none of them had actually arrived with him nor knew who he was.

Due to the events and commotion of the previous night, many people come to see the Hobbits leave Bree. Strider decides to lead the Hobbits out the main road, as leaving into the wilderness would only arouse more suspicion. Frodo gives a heartfelt farewell to Barliman Butterbur and his loyal assistants.

The Hobbits make their way out of Bree. In the window of the last house on the road, Frodo spots the southerner peeking out at them. Outside the house is Bill Ferny, who sneers at Strider, calling him "Longshanks". He warns the Hobbits not to trust Strider. Strider does not reply, but Sam throws an apple he'd been eating at Ferny's face.

Several people follow the Hobbits a short way out of the village, but quickly turn back. The party passes the Hobbit village of [[Staddle]], and shortly after that Strider takes them off the road and into the country. Pippin complains about short cuts, citing the troubles they'd caused the Hobbits previously. Strider reassures him:

{{quote|Ah, but you had not got me with you then. My cuts, short or long, don't go wrong.|[[Strider]]}}

At first, Strider leads the Hobbits on a winding path to throw off any pursuit. The next day, he straightens their course eastward, and soon they reach the [[Midgewater Marshes]]. Midges begin tormenting them as they make their way slowly across the marsh. The incessant bites and the sound of [[Neekerbreekers|unknown bog-creatures]] keeps them up at night.

On the night of [[3 October]], Frodo wakes up to see flashes of light far away in the east. Strider has no idea what they are, describing them only as "lightning that leaps up from the hill-tops". He maintains a vigil over the camp that whole night.

On [[4 October]], the party leaves the Marshes and spots in the distance a strange, conical hill with a flat top. Strider calls it [[Weathertop]] - the halfway point between Bree and [[Rivendell]]. Strider considers heading straight towards it, though he's unsure what they might find there. Frodo says he assumed that Gandalf would be waiting for them there, but Strider says that this is unlikely. He points out that the chance of both Gandalf and the party reaching Weathertop at the same time is slim; and also that the [[Black Riders]] will likely make their way to the hill if they can't find the Hobbits elsewhere. He warns that some birds may have been employed as their spies. He concludes that the safest course would be to approach the hill from an unexpected direction.

On the morning of [[5 October]], the Hobbits have a relatively meager breakfast. Pippin notices that Frodo seems "twice the Hobbit that he had been". Frodo, however, feels much thinner, and worries that if he continues thinning he might "turn into a wraith". Strider is very disturbed by this, and urgently commands him not to speak of such things.

That night, the party reaches the [[Weather Hills]] north of Weathertop. On the morning of [[6 October]] they turn south, following a path leading down to Weathertop that seems to have been specially designed to keep travelers hidden from view. The boulders lining the path remind Merry of the Standing Stones in the [[Barrow-downs]]. This prompts Strider to explain the history of Weathertop. He says that the hill was once a magnificent watch-tower built by [[Men of the West]] as part of their defensive lines against [[Angmar]]. He names the tower "Amon Sûl", and says that it was almost completely destroyed. He demonstrates an impressive knowledge of ancient lore, reporting that [[Elendil]] was said to have stood there watching for the coming of [[Gil-Galad]] in the days of the [[Last Alliance]].

Merry asks who Gil-Galad was. Strider seems to be lost in thought about this, but suddenly Sam begins singing [[The Fall of Gil-galad|part of a song about Gil-Galad]], amazing everyone. Sam says he learned the song from [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]], who had also taught him how to read. Sam claims that Bilbo wrote the song himself. Strider corrects him, saying that the song was originally written in an ancient tongue, which Bilbo must have translated; he is pleasantly surprised. Sam adds that he wouldn't learn the rest of the song because it was about going to [[Mordor]]. Pippin hopes aloud that they won't have to go to Mordor. Strider commands him not to speak that name out loud again.

The party finally reaches Weathertop, and locates a sheltered dell on its western side. Sam and Pippin remain there with the pony, while the others make their way to the top. As Strider said earlier, the watch-tower is burnt and ruined, and there is no sign of Gandalf. Strider says that Gandalf rides very fast, and might have reached Weathertop before they did. Indeed, Strider soon finds an unusual rock bearing small scratches, which he interprets as the [[Angerthas]] rune for "G" followed by the number 3 - indicating that Gandalf had been there on 3 October. Since Gandalf has left only a few cryptic marks, Strider concludes that he must have been in quite a hurry to leave the tower, and worried that someone sinister might find the message.

Strider observes fresh burn marks upon the stones, and speculates that Gandalf must have fought something in the tower on 3 October - explaining the lights they had observed in the east that night. He says the party will have to make its way to Rivendell without Gandalf. Merry asks how far Rivendell is. Strider is unsure; he estimates that it would have taken him about 12 days to reach the [[Ford of Bruinen]] by road, but since the party will likely have to stay off the road, it might take at least a fortnight.

Frodo feels homesick as he looks at the road headed back west from the tower. Suddenly, he notices two black specks on the road, moving westward, and three other black specks moving eastward to meet them. He tells Strider, who drops quickly to the ground, pulling Frodo with him. They creep up to the edge of the hill to observe the specks as evening falls.

{{quote|The enemy is here!|[[Strider]]}}

Strider, Frodo and Merry return to the dell. Meanwhile, Sam and Pippin have explored the area, and found signs of a recent campsite next to a spring, with fresh boot marks and bundles of firewood. Strider examines these, concluding that Rangers had been there a few days earlier and left that firewood, though the tracks have mostly been ruined by Sam and Pippin. He also notices many heavy bootprints, which disturb him.

Sam suggests leaving Weathertop as soon as possible. Strider considers this, but concludes that there is nowhere better to go, especially at night when they will surely be spotted leaving. At the Hobbits' inquiries, he explains that the Black Riders can "see" vague shapes, except in the bright light of the sun; can smell the blood of living creatures; and can feel them in their vicinity as keenly as the Hobbits had felt unease at the presence of the Riders. He rues his mistake of wandering carelessly on the hill-top. Finally, he adds that [[The One Ring]] attracts the Riders. Frodo seems to lose hope of ever escaping the Riders.

{{quote|There is still hope. You are not alone. Let us take this wood that is set ready for the fire as a sign. There is little shelter or defence here, but fire shall serve for both. Sauron can put fire to his evil use, as he can all things, but these Riders do not love it, and fear those who wield it. Fire is our friend in the wilderness.|[[Strider]]}}

The party sets up a campfire deep in the dell, and sits down to eat. Frodo is worried that their food stores won't last until Rivendell, but Strider reassures him that food can be gathered from the wild. He bids the Hobbits think of the tables at [[Elrond]]'s house.

As the night darkens, Strider begins telling the Hobbits tales of times long past. They wonder how old Strider really is. They ask him again about Gil-Galad, and he replies that Frodo might actually know some of the story. Frodo confirms that he had heard it from Gandalf, and begins telling the tale. Strider quickly stops him, saying that he should not speak of it while servants of the Enemy are nearby, bidding the Hobbits wait until they reach Rivendell.

Instead, Strider tells the Hobbits the tale of [[Tinúviel]], though he claims that only Elrond now remembers the tale properly. After a long pause, he sings the [[Song of Beren and Lúthien]]. After completing the song's many verses, he explains the tale in plain words, telling of the meeting between the [[Men|mortal man]] [[Beren]] and the [[Elf|elvish princess]] [[Lúthien]] during the [[First Age]]; the war against the [[Great Enemy]]; and the retrieval of one of the stolen [[Silmarils]]. He tells of how Beren died at the hands of the [[Carcharoth|Wolf of Angband]], and how Lúthien gave up her immortality in order to join him in the afterlife. Their union, Strider adds, gave birth to a [[Half-elven]] lineage from which Elrond is descended, as well as [[Eärendil]] who sired the kings of [[Númenor]].

Strider seems greatly affected by his own story. As he finishes, the moon rises behind him, and the Hobbits spot a small, dark shape at the top of the hill. They suddenly feel very uneasy. Sam and Merry scout the edge of the dell, but soon return and report that they suddenly felt very afraid and that Merry spotted two or three dark shapes moving towards them. The party prepares for a fight, as Strider commands them to pick up longer sticks from the fire.

As the party huddles around the fire, facing outwards, dark shapes begin appearing around the lip of the dell. Soon, the party is surrounded by four tall black figures, seeming darker than the darkness behind them. Pippin and Merry cower on the ground in terror, but Sam stays close to Frodo. Frodo suddenly feels a powerful temptation to put on the Ring. Despite remembering every reason not to, he puts the Ring on his finger.

Now under the Ring's effect, Frodo can see the Black Riders in their true form: five tall figures with white faces, merciless eyes, and grey hair, wearing long robes and silver helmets, and wielding swords. Three Riders rush towards him, and he pulls out his sword, which seems to burn bright red. Though two stop in their tracks at this sight, one continues to advance: a taller figure wearing a crown, holding a long-sword and a knife.

Frodo throws himself on the ground, crying "O Elbereth! Gilthoniel!", and swinging his sword at the crowned figure's feet. The figure shrieks in pain, and then stabs Frodo in the left shoulder.

Before passing out in pain, Frodo glimpses Strider leaping at the figure with flaming brands of wood in each hand. Frodo drops his sword, grabs the Ring, and pulls it off his finger, holding it very tightly.

[[Category:The Fellowship of the Ring chapters|Knife in the Dark]]
[[fi:Veitsi yössä (TSH)]]

A Knife in the Dark

2023-07-28T01:35:32Z

Headrock: /* Summary */

{{chapter
| image=Ted Nasmith - Fire on Weathertop.jpg
| title=A Knife in the Dark
| book=The Fellowship of the Ring
| number=11
| event=[[Fredegar Bolger|Fatty]] is attacked at [[Crickhollow]]; [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] and [[Strider (Aragorn)|Strider]] leave and are attacked at [[Weathertop]].
| date=[[30 September]]-[[6 October]] {{TA|3018|n}}
| location=[[Crickhollow]], [[Bree]], and [[Weathertop]]
| previous=Strider (chapter)
| next=Flight to the Ford
}}

'''A Knife in the Dark''' is the eleventh chapter of the first book in ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.

In this chapter, [[Fredegar Bolger|Fatty Bolger]] is attacked by [[Black Riders]] at [[Crickhollow]], but the [[Bucklanders]] scare them away. The Black Riders attack the [[Prancing Pony]], but cannot find the [[Hobbits]]. The Hobbits lose their ponies, but purchase [[Bill the Pony]] to replace them. They make their way to [[Weathertop]] together with [[Strider]], where Black Riders attack them in force. [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] is stabbed with a [[Morgul-knife]].

==Summary==

Back at [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]]'s new "home" in [[Crickhollow]], [[Fredegar Bolger|Fatty Bolger]] has been having an uneasy sensation all day. That night, he sees dark shadows in the trees, and his gate opens and closes of its own accord. Three dark figures arrive at the house, surrounding it on all sides. One figure demands he open the door, and then all three break inside. Suddenly, a horn blows in the distance.

{{quote|AWAKE! FEAR! FIRE! FOES! AWAKE!|The [[Horn-call of Buckland]]}}

Fatty had escaped the house before the [[Black Riders]] broke in, and ran a whole mile to call for help. The [[Bucklanders]], fearing an invasion from the [[Old Forest]], sounded the alarm [[Fell Winter (Third Age)|for the first time in a hundred years]]. The Black Riders flee Crickhollow, and we are told that they now realize [[The One Ring]] has already left the area.

Back in [[Bree]], [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] has trouble sleeping. He dreams again of a wind in the east, and the gallop of hooves. He wakes up just before dawn, hearing a horn blowing far off in the distance.

[[Strider]] leads the [[Hobbits]] to their rooms, where they discover that the doors have been bashed in and their beds have been slashed and ransacked. They wake [[Barliman Butterbur]], who is appalled at this turn of events. Frodo, [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]], [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] and [[Pippin Took|Pippin]] prepare to leave with Strider as soon as possible, skipping breakfast. Barliman goes to fetch their ponies, but discovers that the stable doors had been opened and the ponies are gone. Strider reassures them that ponies would not have sped up their journey by much, on the roads he intends to take.

Frodo inquires whether more ponies could be purchased in the village. Barliman replies that the chances are low, but sends his assistants out to look anyway. Strider laments that they will no longer be able to leave Bree unnoticed, but the Hobbits are glad to have a chance to eat breakfast while they wait. The wait lasts three hours.

Barliman's assistant [[Bob]] finally returns with bad news: He could find only [[Bill the Pony|one pony for sale]], at a very steep price, belonging to [[Bill Ferny]].

{{quote|A poor old half-starved creature it is, but he won't part with it for less than thrice its worth, seeing how you're placed, not if I knows Bill Ferny.|[[Bob]]}}

Frodo worries that the pony would bolt right back to Bill Ferny with all their belongings. Strider is confident that no animal would want to return to Bill Ferny. Bill's price is 12 silver pennies, which Barliman Butterbur offers to pay out of his own pocket, giving Merry another 18 silvers for his lost ponies. We're told that Merry's lost ponies were later found by [[Tom Bombadil]], one having been stolen and the others having wandered across [[Bree-land]]. Tom collected them and returned them to Barliman, who ultimately benefited from his generosity.

The other guests at the inn are outraged to find that some of their animals had also escaped. However, they soon discover that the southerner who had conferred with Bill Ferny has also disappeared, and the blame quickly falls on him. When Barliman chastises the southerners for bringing a thief with them, it turns out that none of them had actually arrived with him nor knew who he was.

Due to the events and commotion of the previous night, many people come to see the Hobbits leave Bree. Strider decides to lead the Hobbits out the main road, as leaving into the wilderness would only arouse more suspicion. Frodo gives a heartfelt farewell to Barliman Butterbur and his loyal assistants.

The Hobbits make their way out of Bree. In the window of the last house on the road, Frodo spots the southerner peeking out at them. Outside the house is Bill Ferny, who sneers at Strider, calling him "Longshanks". He warns the Hobbits not to trust Strider. Strider does not reply, but Sam throws an apple he'd been eating at Ferny's face.

Several people follow the Hobbits a short way out of the village, but quickly turn back. The party passes the Hobbit village of [[Staddle]], and shortly after that Strider takes them off the road and into the country. Pippin complains about short cuts, citing the troubles they'd caused the Hobbits previously. Strider reassures him:

{{quote|Ah, but you had not got me with you then. My cuts, short or long, don't go wrong.|[[Strider]]}}

At first, Strider leads the Hobbits on a winding path to throw off any pursuit. The next day, he straightens their course eastward, and soon they reach the [[Midgewater Marshes]]. Midges begin tormenting them as they make their way slowly across the marsh. The incessant bites and the sound of [[Neekerbreekers|unknown bog-creatures]] keeps them up at night.

On the night of [[3 October]], Frodo wakes up to see flashes of light far away in the east. Strider has no idea what they are, describing them only as "lightning that leaps up from the hill-tops". He maintains a vigil over the camp that whole night.

On [[4 October]], the party leaves the Marshes and spots in the distance a strange, conical hill with a flat top. Strider calls it [[Weathertop]] - the halfway point between Bree and [[Rivendell]]. Strider considers heading straight towards it, though he's unsure what they might find there. Frodo says he assumed that Gandalf would be waiting for them there, but Strider says that this is unlikely. He points out that the chance of both Gandalf and the party reaching Weathertop at the same time is slim; and also that the [[Black Riders]] will likely make their way to the hill if they can't find the Hobbits elsewhere. He warns that some birds may have been employed as their spies. He concludes that the safest course would be to approach the hill from an unexpected direction.

On the morning of [[5 October]], the Hobbits have a relatively meager breakfast. Pippin notices that Frodo seems "twice the Hobbit that he had been". Frodo, however, feels much thinner, and worries that if he continues thinning he might "turn into a wraith". Strider is very disturbed by this, and urgently commands him not to speak of such things.

That night, the party reaches the hills north of Weathertop. On the morning of [[6 October]] they turn south, following a path leading down to Weathertop that seems to have been specially designed to keep travelers hidden from view. The boulders lining the path remind Merry of the Standing Stones in the [[Barrow-downs]]. This prompts Strider to explain the history of Weathertop. He says that the hill was once a magnificent watch-tower built by [[Men of the West]] as part of their defensive lines against [[Angmar]]. He names the tower "Amon Sûl", and says that it was almost completely destroyed. He demonstrates an impressive knowledge of ancient lore, reporting that [[Elendil]] was said to have stood there watching for the coming of [[Gil-Galad]] in the days of the [[Last Alliance]].

Merry asks who Gil-Galad was. Strider seems to be lost in thought about this, but suddenly Sam begins singing [[The Fall of Gil-galad|part of a song about Gil-Galad]], amazing everyone. Sam says he learned the song from [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]], who had also taught him how to read. Sam claims that Bilbo wrote the song himself. Strider corrects him, saying that the song was originally written in an ancient tongue, which Bilbo must have translated; he is pleasantly surprised. Sam adds that he wouldn't learn the rest of the song because it was about going to [[Mordor]]. Pippin hopes aloud that they won't have to go to Mordor. Strider commands him not to speak that name out loud again.

The party finally reaches Weathertop, and locates a sheltered dell on its western side. Sam and Pippin remain there with the pony, while the others make their way to the top. As Strider said earlier, the watch-tower is burnt and ruined, and there is no sign of Gandalf. Strider says that Gandalf rides very fast, and might have reached Weathertop before they did. Indeed, Strider soon finds an unusual rock bearing small scratches, which he interprets as the [[Angerthas]] rune for "G" followed by the number 3 - indicating that Gandalf had been there on 3 October. Since Gandalf has left only a few cryptic marks, Strider concludes that he must have been in quite a hurry to leave the tower, and worried that someone sinister might find the message.

Strider observes fresh burn marks upon the stones, and speculates that Gandalf must have fought something in the tower on 3 October - explaining the lights they had observed in the east that night. He says the party will have to make its way to Rivendell without Gandalf. Merry asks how far Rivendell is. Strider is unsure; he estimates that it would have taken him about 12 days to reach the [[Ford of Bruinen]] by road, but since the party will likely have to stay off the road, it might take at least a fortnight.

Frodo feels homesick as he looks at the road headed back west from the tower. Suddenly, he notices two black specks on the road, moving westward, and three other black specks moving eastward to meet them. He tells Strider, who drops quickly to the ground, pulling Frodo with him. They creep up to the edge of the hill to observe the specks as evening falls.

{{quote|The enemy is here!|[[Strider]]}}

Strider, Frodo and Merry return to the dell. Meanwhile, Sam and Pippin have explored the area, and found signs of a recent campsite next to a spring, with fresh boot marks and bundles of firewood. Strider examines these, concluding that Rangers had been there a few days earlier and left that firewood, though the tracks have mostly been ruined by Sam and Pippin. He also notices many heavy bootprints, which disturb him.

Sam suggests leaving Weathertop as soon as possible. Strider considers this, but concludes that there is nowhere better to go, especially at night when they will surely be spotted leaving. At the Hobbits' inquiries, he explains that the Black Riders can "see" vague shapes, except in the bright light of the sun; can smell the blood of living creatures; and can feel them in their vicinity as keenly as the Hobbits had felt unease at the presence of the Riders. He rues his mistake of wandering carelessly on the hill-top. Finally, he adds that [[The One Ring]] attracts the Riders. Frodo seems to lose hope of ever escaping the Riders.

{{quote|There is still hope. You are not alone. Let us take this wood that is set ready for the fire as a sign. There is little shelter or defence here, but fire shall serve for both. Sauron can put fire to his evil use, as he can all things, but these Riders do not love it, and fear those who wield it. Fire is our friend in the wilderness.|[[Strider]]}}

The party sets up a campfire deep in the dell, and sits down to eat. Frodo is worried that their food stores won't last until Rivendell, but Strider reassures him that food can be gathered from the wild. He bids the Hobbits think of the tables at [[Elrond]]'s house.

As the night darkens, Strider begins telling the Hobbits tales of times long past. They wonder how old Strider really is. They ask him again about Gil-Galad, and he replies that Frodo might actually know some of the story. Frodo confirms that he had heard it from Gandalf, and begins telling the tale. Strider quickly stops him, saying that he should not speak of it while servants of the Enemy are nearby, bidding the Hobbits wait until they reach Rivendell.

Instead, Strider tells the Hobbits the tale of [[Tinúviel]], though he claims that only Elrond now remembers the tale properly. After a long pause, he sings the [[Song of Beren and Lúthien]]. After completing the song's many verses, he explains the tale in plain words, telling of the meeting between the [[Men|mortal man]] [[Beren]] and the [[Elf|elvish princess]] [[Lúthien]] during the [[First Age]]; the war against the [[Great Enemy]]; and the retrieval of one of the stolen [[Silmarils]]. He tells of how Beren died at the hands of the [[Carcharoth|Wolf of Angband]], and how Lúthien gave up her immortality in order to join him in the afterlife. Their union, Strider adds, gave birth to a [[Half-elven]] lineage from which Elrond is descended, as well as [[Eärendil]] who sired the kings of [[Númenor]].

Strider seems greatly affected by his own story. As he finishes, the moon rises behind him, and the Hobbits spot a small, dark shape at the top of the hill. They suddenly feel very uneasy. Sam and Merry scout the edge of the dell, but soon return and report that they suddenly felt very afraid and that Merry spotted two or three dark shapes moving towards them. The party prepares for a fight, as Strider commands them to pick up longer sticks from the fire.

As the party huddles around the fire, facing outwards, dark shapes begin appearing around the lip of the dell. Soon, the party is surrounded by four tall black figures, seeming darker than the darkness behind them. Pippin and Merry cower on the ground in terror, but Sam stays close to Frodo. Frodo suddenly feels a powerful temptation to put on the Ring. Despite remembering every reason not to, he puts the Ring on his finger.

Now under the Ring's effect, Frodo can see the Black Riders in their true form: five tall figures with white faces, merciless eyes, and grey hair, wearing long robes and silver helmets, and wielding swords. Three Riders rush towards him, and he pulls out his sword, which seems to burn bright red. Though two stop in their tracks at this sight, one continues to advance: a taller figure wearing a crown, holding a long-sword and a knife.

Frodo throws himself on the ground, crying "O Elbereth! Gilthoniel!", and swinging his sword at the crowned figure's feet. The figure shrieks in pain, and then stabs Frodo in the left shoulder.

Before passing out in pain, Frodo glimpses Strider leaping at the figure with flaming brands of wood in each hand. Frodo drops his sword, grabs the Ring, and pulls it off his finger, holding it very tightly.

[[Category:The Fellowship of the Ring chapters|Knife in the Dark]]
[[fi:Veitsi yössä (TSH)]]

A Knife in the Dark

2023-07-28T01:32:24Z

Headrock: /* Summary */

{{chapter
| image=Ted Nasmith - Fire on Weathertop.jpg
| title=A Knife in the Dark
| book=The Fellowship of the Ring
| number=11
| event=[[Fredegar Bolger|Fatty]] is attacked at [[Crickhollow]]; [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] and [[Strider (Aragorn)|Strider]] leave and are attacked at [[Weathertop]].
| date=[[30 September]]-[[6 October]] {{TA|3018|n}}
| location=[[Crickhollow]], [[Bree]], and [[Weathertop]]
| previous=Strider (chapter)
| next=Flight to the Ford
}}

'''A Knife in the Dark''' is the eleventh chapter of the first book in ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.

In this chapter, [[Fredegar Bolger|Fatty Bolger]] is attacked by [[Black Riders]] at [[Crickhollow]], but the [[Bucklanders]] scare them away. The Black Riders attack the [[Prancing Pony]], but cannot find the [[Hobbits]]. The Hobbits lose their ponies, but purchase [[Bill the Pony]] to replace them. They make their way to [[Weathertop]] together with [[Strider]], where Black Riders attack them in force. [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] is stabbed with a [[Morgul-knife]].

==Summary==

Back at [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]]'s new "home" in [[Crickhollow]], [[Fredegar Bolger|Fatty Bolger]] has been having an uneasy sensation all day. That night, he sees dark shadows in the trees, and his gate opens and closes of its own accord. Three dark figures arrive at the house, surrounding it on all sides. One figure demands he open the door, and then all three break inside. Suddenly, a horn blows in the distance.

{{quote|AWAKE! FEAR! FIRE! FOES! AWAKE!|The [[Horn-call of Buckland]]}}

Fatty had escaped the house before the [[Black Riders]] broke in, and ran a whole mile to call for help. The [[Bucklanders]], fearing an invasion from the [[Old Forest]], sounded the alarm [[Fell Winter (Third Age)|for the first time in a hundred years]]. The Black Riders flee Crickhollow, and we are told that they now realize [[The One Ring]] has already left the area.

Back in [[Bree]], [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] has trouble sleeping. He dreams again of a wind in the east, and the gallop of hooves. He wakes up just before dawn, hearing a horn blowing far off in the distance.

[[Strider]] leads the [[Hobbits]] to their rooms, where they discover that the doors have been bashed in and their beds have been slashed and ransacked. They wake [[Barliman Butterbur]], who is appalled at this turn of events. Frodo, [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]], [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] and [[Pippin Took|Pippin]] prepare to leave with Strider as soon as possible, skipping breakfast. Barliman goes to fetch their ponies, but discovers that the stable doors had been opened and the ponies are gone. Strider reassures them that ponies would not have sped up their journey by much, on the roads he intends to take.

Frodo inquires whether more ponies could be purchased in the village. Barliman replies that the chances are low, but sends his assistants out to look anyway. Strider laments that they will no longer be able to leave Bree unnoticed, but the Hobbits are glad to have a chance to eat breakfast while they wait. The wait lasts three hours.

Barliman's assistant [[Bob]] finally returns with bad news: He could find only [[Bill the Pony|one pony for sale]], at a very steep price, belonging to [[Bill Ferny]].

{{quote|A poor old half-starved creature it is, but he won't part with it for less than thrice its worth, seeing how you're placed, not if I knows Bill Ferny.|[[Bob]]}}

Frodo worries that the pony would bolt right back to Bill Ferny with all their belongings. Strider is confident that no animal would want to return to Bill Ferny. Bill's price is 12 silver pennies, which Barliman Butterbur offers to pay out of his own pocket, giving Merry another 18 silvers for his lost ponies. We're told that Merry's lost ponies were later found by [[Tom Bombadil]], one having been stolen and the others having wandered across [[Bree-land]]. Tom collected them and returned them to Barliman, who ultimately benefited from his generosity.

The other guests at the inn are outraged to find that some of their animals had also escaped. However, they soon discover that the southerner who had conferred with Bill Ferny has also disappeared, and the blame quickly falls on him. When Barliman chastises the southerners for bringing a thief with them, it turns out that none of them had actually arrived with him nor knew who he was.

Due to the events and commotion of the previous night, many people come to see the Hobbits leave Bree. Strider decides to lead the Hobbits out the main road, as leaving into the wilderness would only arouse more suspicion. Frodo gives a heartfelt farewell to Barliman Butterbur and his loyal assistants.

The Hobbits make their way out of Bree. In the window of the last house on the road, Frodo spots the southerner peeking out at them. Outside the house is Bill Ferny, who sneers at Strider, calling him "Longshanks". He warns the Hobbits not to trust Strider. Strider does not reply, but Sam throws an apple he'd been eating at Ferny's face.

Several people follow the Hobbits a short way out of the village, but quickly turn back. The party passes the Hobbit village of [[Staddle]], and shortly after that Strider takes them off the road and into the country. Pippin complains about short cuts, citing the troubles they'd caused the Hobbits previously. Strider reassures him:

{{quote|Ah, but you had not got me with you then. My cuts, short or long, don't go wrong.|[[Strider]]}}

At first, Strider leads the Hobbits on a winding path to throw off any pursuit. The next day, he straightens their course eastward, and soon they reach the [[Midgewater Marshes]]. Midges begin tormenting them as they make their way slowly across the marsh. The incessant bites and the sound of [[Neekerbreekers|unknown bog-creatures]] keeps them up at night.

On the night of [[3 October]], Frodo wakes up to see flashes of light far away in the east. Strider has no idea what they are, describing them only as "lightning that leaps up from the hill-tops". He maintains a vigil over the camp that whole night.

On [[4 October]], the party leaves the Marshes and spots in the distance a strange, conical hill with a flat top. Strider calls it [[Weathertop]] - the halfway point between Bree and [[Rivendell]]. Strider considers heading straight towards it, though he's unsure what they might find there. Frodo says he assumed that Gandalf would be waiting for them there, but Strider says that this is unlikely. He points out that the chance of both Gandalf and the party reaching Weathertop at the same time is slim; and also that the [[Black Riders]] will likely make their way to the hill if they can't find the Hobbits elsewhere. He warns that some birds may have been employed as their spies. He concludes that the safest course would be to approach the hill from an unexpected direction.

On the morning of [[5 October]], the Hobbits have a relatively meager breakfast. Pippin notices that Frodo seems "twice the Hobbit that he had been". Frodo, however, feels much thinner, and worries that if he continues thinning he might "turn into a wraith". Strider is very disturbed by this, and urgently commands him not to speak of such things.

That night, the party reaches the hills north of Weathertop. On the morning of [[6 October]] they turn south, following a path leading down to Weathertop that seems to have been specially designed to keep travelers hidden from view. The boulders lining the path remind Merry of the Standing Stones in the [[Barrow-downs]]. This prompts Strider to explain the history of Weathertop. He says that the hill was once a magnificent watch-tower built by [[Men of the West]] as part of their defensive lines against [[Angmar]]. He names the tower "Amon Sûl", and says that it was almost completely destroyed. He demonstrates an impressive knowledge of ancient lore, reporting that [[Elendil]] was said to have stood there watching for the coming of [[Gil-Galad]] in the days of the [[Last Alliance]].

Merry asks who Gil-Galad was. Strider seems to be lost in thought about this, but suddenly Sam begins singing [[The Fall of Gil-galad|part of a song about Gil-Galad]], amazing everyone. Sam says he learned the song from [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]], who had also taught him how to read. Sam claims that Bilbo wrote the song himself. Strider corrects him, saying that the song was originally written in an ancient tongue, which Bilbo must have translated; he is pleasantly surprised. Sam adds that he wouldn't learn the rest of the song because it was about going to [[Mordor]]. Pippin hopes aloud that they won't have to go to Mordor. Strider commands him not to speak that name out loud again.

The party finally reaches Weathertop, and locates a sheltered dell on its western side. Sam and Pippin remain there with the pony, while the others make their way to the top. As Strider said earlier, the watch-tower is burnt and ruined, and there is no sign of Gandalf. Strider says that Gandalf rides very fast, and might have reached Weathertop before they did. Indeed, Strider soon finds an unusual rock bearing small scratches, which he interprets as the [[Angerthas]] rune for "G" followed by the number 3 - indicating that Gandalf had been there on 3 October. Since Gandalf has left only a few cryptic marks, Strider concludes that he must have been in quite a hurry to leave the tower, and worried that someone sinister might find the message.

Strider observes fresh burn marks upon the stones, and speculates that Gandalf must have fought something in the tower on 3 October - explaining the lights they had observed in the east that night. He says the party will have to make its way to Rivendell without Gandalf. Merry asks how far Rivendell is. Strider is unsure; he estimates that it would have taken him about 12 days to reach the [[Ford of Bruinen]] by road, but since the party will likely have to stay off the road, it might take at least a fortnight.

Frodo feels homesick as he looks at the road headed back west from the tower. Suddenly, he notices two black specks on the road, moving westward, and three other black specks moving eastward to meet them. He tells Strider, who drops quickly to the ground, pulling Frodo with him. They creep up to the edge of the hill to observe the specks as evening falls.

{{quote|The enemy is here!|[[Strider]]}}

Strider, Frodo and Merry return to the dell. Meanwhile, Sam and Pippin have explored the area, and found signs of a recent campsite next to a spring, with fresh boot marks and bundles of firewood. Strider examines these, concluding that Rangers had been there a few days earlier and left that firewood, though the tracks have mostly been ruined by Sam and Pippin. He also notices many heavy bootprints, which disturb him.

Sam suggests leaving Weathertop as soon as possible. Strider considers this, but concludes that there is nowhere better to go, especially at night when they will surely be spotted leaving. At the Hobbits' inquiries, he explains that the Black Riders can "see" vague shapes, except in the bright light of the sun; can smell the blood of living creatures; and can feel them in their vicinity as keenly as the Hobbits had felt unease at the presence of the Riders. He rues his mistake of wandering carelessly on the hill-top. Finally, he adds that [[The One Ring]] attracts the Riders. Frodo seems to lose hope of ever escaping the Riders.

{{quote|There is still hope. You are not alone. Let us take this wood that is set ready for the fire as a sign. There is little shelter or defence here, but fire shall serve for both. Sauron can put fire to his evil use, as he can all things, but these Riders do not love it, and fear those who wield it. Fire is our friend in the wilderness.|[[Strider]]}}

The party sets up a campfire deep in the dell, and sits down to eat. Frodo is worried that their food stores won't last until Rivendell, but Strider reassures him that food can be gathered from the wild. He bids the Hobbits think of the tables at [[Elrond]]'s house.

As the night darkens, Strider begins telling the Hobbits tales of times long ago. They wonder how old Strider really is. They ask him again about Gil-Galad, and he replies that Frodo might actually know some of the story. Frodo confirms that he had heard it from Gandalf, and begins telling the tale. Strider quickly stops him, saying that he should not speak of it while servants of the Enemy are nearby, bidding the Hobbits wait until they reach Rivendell.

Instead, Strider tells the Hobbits the tale of [[Tinúviel]], though he claims that only Elrond now remembers the tale properly. After a long pause, he sings the [[Song of Beren and Lúthien]]. After completing the song's many verses, he explains the tale in plain words, telling of the meeting between the [[Men|mortal man]] [[Beren]] and the [[Elf|elvish princess]] [[Lúthien]] during the [[First Age]]; the war against the [[Great Enemy]]; and the retrieval of one of the stolen [[Silmarils]]. He tells of how Beren died at the hands of the [[Carcharoth|Wolf of Angband]], and how Lúthien gave up her immortality in order to join him in the afterlife. Their union, Strider adds, gave birth to a [[Half-elven]] lineage from which Elrond is descended, as well as [[Eärendil]] who sired the kings of [[Númenor]].

Strider seems greatly affected by his own story. As he finishes, the moon rises behind him, and the Hobbits spot a small, dark shape at the top of the hill. They suddenly feel very uneasy. Sam and Merry scout the edge of the dell, but soon return and report that they suddenly felt very afraid and that Merry spotted two or three dark shapes moving towards them. The party prepares for a fight, as Strider commands them to pick up longer sticks from the fire.

As the party huddles around the fire, facing outwards, dark shapes begin appearing around the lip of the dell. Soon, the party is surrounded by four tall black figures, seeming darker than the darkness behind them. Pippin and Merry cower on the ground in terror, but Sam stays close to Frodo. Frodo suddenly feels a powerful temptation to put on the Ring. Despite remembering every reason not to, he puts the Ring on his finger.

Now under the Ring's effect, Frodo can see the Black Riders in their true form: five tall figures with white faces, merciless eyes, and grey hair, wearing long robes and silver helmets, and wielding swords. Three Riders rush towards him, and he pulls out his sword, which seems to burn bright red. Though two stop in their tracks at this sight, one continues to advance: a taller figure wearing a crown, holding a long-sword and a knife.

Frodo throws himself on the ground, crying "O Elbereth! Gilthoniel!", and swinging his sword at the crowned figure's feet. The figure shrieks in pain, and then stabs Frodo in the left shoulder.

Before passing out in pain, Frodo glimpses Strider leaping at the figure with flaming brands of wood in each hand. Frodo drops his sword, grabs the Ring, and pulls it off his finger, holding it very tightly.

[[Category:The Fellowship of the Ring chapters|Knife in the Dark]]
[[fi:Veitsi yössä (TSH)]]

A Knife in the Dark

2023-07-28T01:31:06Z

Headrock:

{{chapter
| image=Ted Nasmith - Fire on Weathertop.jpg
| title=A Knife in the Dark
| book=The Fellowship of the Ring
| number=11
| event=[[Fredegar Bolger|Fatty]] is attacked at [[Crickhollow]]; [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] and [[Strider (Aragorn)|Strider]] leave and are attacked at [[Weathertop]].
| date=[[30 September]]-[[6 October]] {{TA|3018|n}}
| location=[[Crickhollow]], [[Bree]], and [[Weathertop]]
| previous=Strider (chapter)
| next=Flight to the Ford
}}

'''A Knife in the Dark''' is the eleventh chapter of the first book in ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.

In this chapter, [[Fredegar Bolger|Fatty Bolger]] is attacked by [[Black Riders]] at [[Crickhollow]], but the [[Bucklanders]] scare them away. The Black Riders attack the [[Prancing Pony]], but cannot find the [[Hobbits]]. The Hobbits lose their ponies, but purchase [[Bill the Pony]] to replace them. They make their way to [[Weathertop]] together with [[Strider]], where Black Riders attack them in force. [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] is stabbed with a [[Morgul-knife]].

==Summary==

Back at [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]]'s new "home" in [[Crickhollow]], [[Fredegar Bolger|Fatty Bolger]] has been having an uneasy sensation all day. That night, he sees dark shadows in the trees, and his gate opens and closes of its own accord. Three dark figures arrive at the house, surrounding it on all sides. One figure demands he open the door, and then all three break inside. Suddenly, a horn blows in the distance.

{{quote|AWAKE! FEAR! FIRE! FOES! AWAKE!|The [[Horn-call of Buckland]]}}

Fatty had escaped the house before the [[Black Riders]] broke in, and ran a whole mile to call for help. The [[Bucklanders]], fearing an invasion from the [[Old Forest]], sounded the alarm [[Fell Winter (Third Age)|for the first time in a hundred years]]. The Black Riders flee Crickhollow, and we are told that they now realize [[The One Ring]] has already left the area.

Back in [[Bree]], [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] has trouble sleeping. He dreams again of a wind in the east, and the gallop of hooves. He wakes up just before dawn, hearing a horn blowing far off in the distance.

[[Strider]] leads the [[Hobbits]] to their rooms, where they discover that the doors have been bashed in and their beds have been slashed and ransacked. They wake [[Barliman Butterbur]], who is appalled at this turn of events. Frodo, [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]], [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] and [[Pippin Took|Pippin]] prepare to leave with Strider as soon as possible, skipping breakfast. Barliman goes to fetch their ponies, but discovers that the stable doors had been opened and the ponies are gone. Strider reassures them that ponies would not have sped up their journey by much, on the roads he intends to take.

Frodo inquires whether more ponies could be purchased in the village. Barliman replies that the chances are low, but sends his assistants out to look anyway. Strider laments that they will no longer be able to leave Bree unnoticed, but the Hobbits are glad to have a chance to eat breakfast while they wait. The wait lasts three hours.

Barliman's assistant [[Bob]] finally returns with bad news: He could find only [[Bill the Pony|one pony for sale]], at a very steep price, belonging to [[Bill Ferny]].

{{quote|A poor old half-starved creature it is, but he won't part with it for less than thrice its worth, seeing how you're placed, not if I knows Bill Ferny.|[[Bob]]}}

Frodo worries that the pony would bolt right back to Bill Ferny with all their belongings. Strider is confident that no animal would want to return to Bill Ferny. Bill's price is 12 silver pennies, which Barliman Butterbur offers to pay out of his own pocket, giving Merry another 18 silvers for his lost ponies. We're told that Merry's lost ponies were later found by [[Tom Bombadil]], one having been stolen and the others having wandered across [[Bree-land]]. Tom collected them and returned them to Barliman, who ultimately benefited from his generosity.

The other guests at the inn are outraged to find that some of their animals had also escaped. However, they soon discover that the southerner who had conferred with Bill Ferny has also disappeared, and the blame quickly falls on him. When Barliman chastises the southerners for bringing a thief with them, it turns out that none of them had actually arrived with him nor knew who he was.

Due to the events and commotion of the previous night, many people come to see the Hobbits leave Bree. Strider decides to lead the Hobbits out the main road, as leaving into the wilderness would only arouse more suspicion. Frodo gives a heartfelt farewell to Barliman Butterbur and his loyal assistants.

The Hobbits make their way out of Bree. In the window of the last house on the road, Frodo spots the southerner peeking out at them. Outside the house is Bill Ferny, who sneers at Strider, calling him "Longshanks". He warns the Hobbits not to trust Strider. Strider does not reply, but Sam throws an apple he'd been eating at Ferny's face.

Several people follow the Hobbits a short way out of the village, but quickly turn back. The party passes the Hobbit village of [[Staddle]], and shortly after that Strider takes them off the road and into the country. Pippin complains about short cuts, citing the troubles they'd caused the Hobbits previously. Strider reassures him:

{{quote|Ah, but you had not got me with you then. My cuts, short or long, don't go wrong.|[[Strider]]}}

At first, Strider leads the Hobbits on a winding path to throw off any pursuit. The next day, he straightens their course eastward, and soon they reach the [[Midgewater Marshes]]. Midges begin tormenting them as they make their way slowly across the marsh. The incessant bites and the sound of [[Neekerbreekers|unknown bog-creatures]] keeps them up at night.

On the night of [[3 October]], Frodo wakes up to see flashes of light far away in the east. Strider has no idea what they are, describing them only as "lightning that leaps up from the hill-tops". He maintains a vigil over the camp that whole night.

On [[4 October]], the party leaves the Marshes and spots in the distance a strange, conical hill with a flat top. Strider calls it [[Weathertop]] - the halfway point between Bree and [[Rivendell]]. Strider considers heading straight towards it, though he's unsure what they might find there. Frodo says he assumed that Gandalf would be waiting for them there, but Strider says that this is unlikely. He points out that the chance of both Gandalf and the party reaching Weathertop at the same time is slim; and also that the [[Black Riders]] will likely make their way to the hill if they can't find the Hobbits elsewhere. He warns that some birds may have been employed as their spies. He concludes that the safest course would be to approach the hill from an unexpected direction.

On the morning of [[5 October]], the Hobbits have a relatively meager breakfast. Pippin notices that Frodo seems "twice the Hobbit that he had been". Frodo, however, feels much thinner, and worries that if he continues thinning he might "turn into a wraith". Strider is very disturbed by this, and urgently commands him not to speak of such things.

That night, the party reaches the hills north of Weathertop. On the morning of [[6 October]] they turn south, following a path leading down to Weathertop that seems to have been specially designed to keep travelers hidden from view. The boulders lining the path remind Merry of the Standing Stones in the [[Barrow-downs]]. This prompts Strider to explain the history of Weathertop. He says that the hill was once a magnificent watch-tower built by [[Men of the West]] as part of their defensive lines against [[Angmar]]. He names the tower "Amon Sûl", and says that it was almost completely destroyed. He demonstrates an impressive knowledge of ancient lore, reporting that [[Elendil]] was said to have stood there watching for the coming of [[Gil-Galad]] in the days of the [[Last Alliance]].

Merry asks who Gil-Galad was. Strider seems to be lost in thought about this, but suddenly Sam begins singing [[The Fall of Gil-galad|part of a song about Gil-Galad]], amazing everyone. Sam says he learned the song from [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]], who had also taught him how to read. Sam claims that Bilbo wrote the song himself. Strider corrects him, saying that the song was originally written in an ancient tongue, which Bilbo must have translated; he is pleasantly surprised. Sam adds that he wouldn't learn the rest of the song because it was about going to [[Mordor]]. Pippin hopes aloud that they won't have to go to Mordor. Strider commands him not to speak that name out loud again.

The party finally reaches Weathertop, and locates a sheltered dell on its western side. Sam and Pippin remain there with the pony, while the others make their way to the top. As Strider said earlier, the watch-tower is burnt and ruined, and there is no sign of Gandalf. Strider says that Gandalf rides very fast, and might have reached Weathertop before they did. Indeed, Strider soon finds an unusual rock bearing small scratches, which he interprets as the [[Angerthas]] rune for "G" followed by the number 3 - indicating that Gandalf had been there on 3 October. Since Gandalf has left only a few cryptic marks, Strider concludes that he must have been in quite a hurry to leave the tower, and worried that someone sinister might find the message.

Strider observes fresh burn marks upon the stones, and speculates that Gandalf must have fought something in the tower on 3 October - explaining the lights they had observed in the east that night. He says the party will have to make its way to Rivendell without Gandalf. Merry asks how far Rivendell is. Strider is unsure; he estimates that it would have taken him about 12 days to reach the [[Ford of Bruinen]] by road, but since the party will likely have to stay off the road, it might take at least a fortnight.

Frodo feels homesick as he looks at the road headed back west from the tower. Suddenly, he notices two black specks on the road, moving westward, and three other black specks moving eastward to meet them. He tells Strider, who drops quickly to the ground, pulling Frodo with him. They creep up to the edge of the hill to observe the specks as evening falls.

{{quote|The enemy is here!|[[Strider]]}}

Strider, Frodo and Merry return to the dell. Meanwhile, Sam and Pippin have explored the area, and found signs of a recent campsite next to a spring, with fresh boot marks and bundles of firewood. Strider examines these, concluding that Rangers had been there a few days earlier and left that firewood, though the tracks had mostly been ruined by Sam and Pippin. He also notices many heavy bootprints, which disturb him.

Sam suggests leaving Weathertop as soon as possible. Strider considers this, but concludes that there is nowhere better to go, especially at night when they will surely be spotted leaving. At the Hobbits' inquiries, he explains that the Black Riders can "see" vague shapes, except in the bright light of the sun; can smell the blood of living creatures; and can feel them in their vicinity as keenly as the Hobbits had felt unease at the presence of the Riders. He rues his mistake of wandering carelessly on the hill-top. Finally, he adds that [[The One Ring]] attracts the Riders. Frodo seems to lose hope of ever escaping the Riders.

{{quote|There is still hope. You are not alone. Let us take this wood that is set ready for the fire as a sign. There is little shelter or defence here, but fire shall serve for both. Sauron can put fire to his evil use, as he can all things, but these Riders do not love it, and fear those who wield it. Fire is our friend in the wilderness.|[[Strider]]}}

The party sets up a campfire deep in the dell, and sits down to eat. Frodo is worried that their food stores won't last until Rivendell, but Strider reassures him that food can be gathered from the wild. He bids the Hobbits think of the tables at [[Elrond]]'s house.

As the night darkens, Strider begins telling the Hobbits tales of times long ago. They wonder how old Strider really is. They ask him again about Gil-Galad, and he replies that Frodo might actually know some of the story. Frodo confirms that he had heard it from Gandalf, and begins telling the tale. Strider quickly stops him, saying that he should not speak of it while servants of the Enemy are nearby, bidding the Hobbits wait until they reach Rivendell.

Instead, Strider tells the Hobbits the tale of [[Tinúviel]], though he claims that only Elrond now remembers the tale properly. After a long pause, he sings the [[Song of Beren and Lúthien]]. After completing the song's many verses, he explains the tale in plain words, telling of the meeting between the [[Men|mortal man]] [[Beren]] and the [[Elf|elvish princess]] [[Lúthien]] during the [[First Age]]; the war against the [[Great Enemy]]; and the retrieval of one of the stolen [[Silmarils]]. He tells of how Beren died at the hands of the [[Carcharoth|Wolf of Angband]], and how Lúthien gave up her immortality in order to join him in the afterlife. Their union, Strider adds, gave birth to a [[Half-elven]] lineage from which Elrond is descended, as well as [[Eärendil]] who sired the kings of [[Númenor]].

Strider seems greatly affected by his own story. As he finishes, the moon rises behind him, and the Hobbits spot a small, dark shape at the top of the hill. They suddenly feel very uneasy. Sam and Merry scout the edge of the dell, but soon return and report that they suddenly felt very afraid and that Merry spotted two or three dark shapes moving towards them. The party prepares for a fight, as Strider commands them to pick up longer sticks from the fire.

As the party huddles around the fire, facing outwards, dark shapes begin appearing around the lip of the dell. Soon, the party is surrounded by four tall black figures, seeming darker than the darkness behind them. Pippin and Merry cower on the ground in terror, but Sam stays close to Frodo. Frodo suddenly feels a powerful temptation to put on the Ring. Despite remembering every reason not to, he puts the Ring on his finger.

Now under the Ring's effect, Frodo can see the Black Riders in their true form: five tall figures with white faces, merciless eyes, and grey hair, wearing long robes and silver helmets, and wielding swords. Three Riders rush towards him, and he pulls out his sword, which seems to burn bright red. Though two stop in their tracks at this sight, one continues to advance: a taller figure wearing a crown, holding a long-sword and a knife.

Frodo throws himself on the ground, crying "O Elbereth! Gilthoniel!", and swinging his sword at the crowned figure's feet. The figure shrieks in pain, and then stabs Frodo in the left shoulder.

Before passing out in pain, Frodo glimpses Strider leaping at the figure with flaming brands of wood in each hand. Frodo drops his sword, grabs the Ring, and pulls it off his finger, holding it very tightly.

[[Category:The Fellowship of the Ring chapters|Knife in the Dark]]
[[fi:Veitsi yössä (TSH)]]

A Knife in the Dark

2023-07-28T01:28:46Z

Headrock:

{{chapter
| image=Ted Nasmith - Fire on Weathertop.jpg
| title=A Knife in the Dark
| book=The Fellowship of the Ring
| number=11
| event=[[Fredegar Bolger|Fatty]] is attacked at [[Crickhollow]]; [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] and [[Strider (Aragorn)|Strider]] leave and are attacked at [[Weathertop]].
| date=[[30 September]]-[[6 October]] {{TA|3018|n}}
| location=[[Crickhollow]], [[Bree]], and [[Weathertop]]
| previous=Strider (chapter)
| next=Flight to the Ford
}}

'''A Knife in the Dark''' is the eleventh chapter of the first book in ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.

In this chapter, [[Fredegar Bolger|Fatty Bolger]] is attacked by [[Black Riders]] at [[Crickhollow]], but the [[Bucklanders]] scare them away. The Black Riders attack the [[Prancing Pony]], but cannot find the [[Hobbits]]. The Hobbits lose their ponies, but purchase [[Bill the Pony]] to replace them. They make their way to [[Weathertop]] together with [[Strider]], where Black Riders attack them in force. [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] is stabbed with a [[Morgul-knife]].

==Summary==

Back at [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]]'s new "home" in [[Crickhollow]], [[Fredegar Bolger|Fatty Bolger]] has been having an uneasy sensation all day. That night, he sees dark shadows in the trees, and his gate opens and closes of its own accord. Three dark figures arrive at the house, surrounding it on all sides. One figure demands he open the door, and then all three break inside. Suddenly, a horn blows in the distance.

{{quote|AWAKE! FEAR! FIRE! FOES! AWAKE!|The [[Horn-call of Buckland]]}}

Fatty had escaped the house before the [[Black Riders]] broke in, and ran a whole mile to call for help. The [[Bucklanders]], fearing an invasion from the [[Old Forest]], sounded the alarm [[Fell Winter (Third Age)|for the first time in a hundred years]]. The Black Riders flee Crickhollow, and we are told that they now realize [[The One Ring]] has already left the area.

Back in [[Bree]], [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] has trouble sleeping. He dreams again of a wind in the east, and the gallop of hooves. He wakes up just before dawn, hearing a horn blowing far off in the distance.

[[Strider]] leads the [[Hobbits]] to their rooms, where they discover that the doors have been bashed in and their beds have been slashed and ransacked. They wake [[Barliman Butterbur]], who is appalled at this turn of events. Frodo, [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]], [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] and [[Pippin Took|Pippin]] prepare to leave with Strider as soon as possible, skipping breakfast. Barliman goes to fetch their ponies, but discovers that the stable doors had been opened and the ponies are gone. Strider reassures them that ponies would not have sped up their journey by much, on the roads he intends to take.

Frodo inquires whether more ponies could be purchased in the village. Barliman replies that the chances are low, but sends his assistants out to look anyway. Strider laments that they will no longer be able to leave Bree unnoticed, but the Hobbits are glad to have a chance to eat breakfast while they wait. The wait lasts three hours.

Barliman's assistant [[Bob]] finally returns with bad news: He could find only [[Bill the Pony|one pony for sale]], at a very steep price, belonging to [[Bill Ferny]].

{{quote|A poor old half-starved creature it is, but he won't part with it for less than thrice its worth, seeing how you're placed, not if I knows Bill Ferny.|[[Bob]]}}

Frodo worries that the pony would bolt right back to Bill Ferny with all their belongings. Strider is confident that no animal would want to return to Bill Ferny. Bill's price is 12 silver pennies, which Barliman Butterbur offers to pay out of his own pocket, giving Merry another 18 silvers for his lost ponies. We're told that Merry's lost ponies were later found by [[Tom Bombadil]], one having been stolen and the others having wandered across [[Bree-land]]. Tom collected them and returned them to Barliman, who ultimately benefited from his generosity.

The other guests at the inn are outraged to find that some of their animals had also escaped. However, they soon discover that the southerner who had conferred with Bill Ferny has also disappeared, and the blame quickly falls on him. When Barliman chastises the southerners for bringing a thief with them, it turns out that none of them had actually arrived with him nor knew who he was.

Due to the events and commotion of the previous night, many people come to see the Hobbits leave Bree. Strider decides to lead the Hobbits out the main road, as leaving into the wilderness would only arouse more suspicion. Frodo gives a heartfelt farewell to Barliman Butterbur and his loyal assistants.

The Hobbits make their way out of Bree. In the window of the last house on the road, Frodo spots the southerner peeking out at them. Outside the house is Bill Ferny, who sneers at Strider, calling him "Longshanks". He warns the Hobbits not to trust Strider. Strider does not reply, but Sam throws an apple he'd been eating at Ferny's face.

Several people follow the Hobbits a short way out of the village, but quickly turn back. The party passes the Hobbit village of [[Staddle]], and shortly after that Strider takes them off the road and into the country. Pippin complains about short cuts, citing the troubles they'd caused the Hobbits previously. Strider reassures him:

{{quote|Ah, but you had not got me with you then. My cuts, short or long, don't go wrong.|[[Strider]]}}

At first, Strider leads the Hobbits on a winding path to throw off any pursuit. The next day, he straightens their course eastward, and soon they reach the [[Midgewater Marshes]]. Midges begin tormenting them as they make their way slowly across the marsh. The incessant bites and the sound of [[Neekerbreekers|unknown bog-creatures]] keeps them up at night.

On the night of [[3 October]], Frodo wakes up to see flashes of light far away in the east. Strider has no idea what they are, describing them only as "lightning that leaps up from the hill-tops". He maintains a vigil over the camp that whole night.

On [[4 October]], the party leaves the Marshes and spots in the distance a strange, conical hill with a flat top. Strider calls it [[Weathertop]] - the halfway point between Bree and [[Rivendell]]. Strider considers heading straight towards it, though he's unsure what they might find there. Frodo says he assumed that Gandalf would be waiting for them there, but Strider says that this is unlikely. He points out that the chance of both Gandalf and the party reaching Weathertop at the same time is slim; and also that the [[Black Riders]] will likely make their way to the hill if they can't find the Hobbits elsewhere. He warns that some birds may have been employed as their spies. He concludes that the safest course would be to approach the hill from an unexpected direction.

On the morning of [[5 October]], the Hobbits have a relatively meager breakfast. Pippin notices that Frodo seems "twice the Hobbit that he had been". Frodo, however, feels much thinner, and worries that if he continues thinning he might "turn into a wraith". Strider is very disturbed by this, and urgently commands him not to speak of such things.

That night, the party reaches the hills north of Weathertop. On the morning of [[6 October]] they turn south, following a path leading down to Weathertop that seems to have been specially designed to keep travelers hidden from view. The boulders lining the path remind Merry of the Standing Stones in the [[Barrow-downs]]. This prompts Strider to explain the history of Weathertop. He says that the hill was once a magnificent watch-tower built by [[Men of the West]] as part of their defensive lines against [[Angmar]]. He names the tower "Amon Sûl", and says that it was almost completely destroyed. He demonstrates an impressive knowledge of ancient lore, reporting that [[Elendil]] was said to have stood there watching for the coming of [[Gil-Galad]] in the days of the [[Last Alliance]].

Merry asks who Gil-Galad was. Strider seems to be lost in thought about this, but suddenly Sam begins singing [[The Fall of Gil-galad|part of a song about Gil-Galad]], amazing everyone. Sam says he learned the song from [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]], who had also taught him how to read. Sam claims that Bilbo wrote the song himself. Strider corrects him, saying that the song was originally written in an ancient tongue, which Bilbo must have translated; he is pleasantly surprised. Sam adds that he wouldn't learn the rest of the song because it was about going to [[Mordor]]. Pippin hopes aloud that they won't have to go to Mordor. Strider commands him not to speak that name out loud again.

The party finally reaches Weathertop, and locates a sheltered dell on its western side. Sam and Pippin remain there with the pony, while the others make their way to the top. As Strider said earlier, the watch-tower is burnt and ruined, and there is no sign of Gandalf. Strider says that Gandalf rides very fast, and might have reached Weathertop before they did. Indeed, Strider soon finds an unusual rock bearing small scratches, which he interprets as the [[Angerthas]] rune for "G" followed by the number 3 - indicating that Gandalf had been there on 3 October. Since Gandalf has left only a few cryptic marks, Strider concludes that he must have been in quite a hurry to leave the tower, and worried that someone sinister might find the message.

Strider observes fresh burn marks upon the stones, and speculates that Gandalf must have fought something in the tower on 3 October - explaining the lights they had observed in the east that night. He says the party will have to make its way to Rivendell without Gandalf. Merry asks how far Rivendell is. Strider is unsure; he estimates that it would have taken him about 12 days to reach the [[Ford of Bruinen]] by road, but since the party will likely have to stay off the road, it might take at least a fortnight.

Frodo feels homesick as he looks at the road headed back west from the tower. Suddenly, he notices two black specks on the road, moving westward, and three other black specks moving eastward to meet them. He tells Strider, who drops quickly to the ground, pulling Frodo with him. They creep up to the edge of the hill to observes the specks as the evening falls.

{{quote|The enemy is here!|[[Strider]]}}

Strider, Frodo and Merry return to the dell. Meanwhile, Sam and Pippin have explored the area, and found signs of a recent campsite next to a spring, with fresh boot marks and bundles of firewood. Strider examines these, concluding that Rangers had been there a few days earlier and left that firewood, though the tracks had mostly been ruined by Sam and Pippin. He also notices many heavy bootprints, which disturb him.

Sam suggests leaving Weathertop as soon as possible. Strider considers this, but concludes that there is nowhere better to go, especially at night when they will surely be spotted leaving. At the Hobbits' inquiries, he explains that the Black Riders can "see" vague shapes, except in the bright light of the sun; can smell the blood of living creatures; and can feel them in their vicinity as keenly as the Hobbits had felt unease at the presence of the Riders. He rues his mistake of wandering carelessly on the hill-top. Finally, he adds that [[The One Ring]] attracts the Riders. Frodo seems to lose hope of ever escaping the Riders.

{{quote|There is still hope. You are not alone. Let us take this wood that is set ready for the fire as a sign. There is little shelter or defence here, but fire shall serve for both. Sauron can put fire to his evil use, as he can all things, but these Riders do not love it, and fear those who wield it. Fire is our friend in the wilderness.|[[Strider]]}}

The party sets up a campfire deep in the dell, and sits down to eat. Frodo is worried that their food stores won't last until Rivendell, but Strider reassures him that food can be gathered from the wild. He bids the Hobbits think of the tables at [[Elrond]]'s house.

As the night darkens, Strider begins telling the Hobbits tales of times long ago. They wonder how old Strider really is. They ask him again about Gil-Galad, and he replies that Frodo might actually know some of the story. Frodo confirms that he had heard it from Gandalf, and begins telling the tale. Strider quickly stops him, saying that he should not speak of it while servants of the Enemy are nearby, bidding the Hobbits wait until they reach Rivendell.

Instead, Strider tells the Hobbits the tale of [[Tinúviel]], though he claims that only Elrond now remembers the tale properly. After a long pause, he sings the [[Song of Beren and Lúthien]]. After completing the song's many verses, he explains the tale in plain words, telling of the meeting between the [[Men|mortal man]] [[Beren]] and the [[Elf|elvish princess]] [[Lúthien]] during the [[First Age]]; the war against the [[Great Enemy]]; and the retrieval of one of the stolen [[Silmarils]]. He tells of how Beren died at the hands of the [[Carcharoth|Wolf of Angband]], and how Lúthien gave up her immortality in order to join him in the afterlife. Their union, Strider adds, gave birth to a [[Half-elven]] lineage from which Elrond is descended, as well as [[Eärendil]] who sired the kings of [[Númenor]].

Strider seems greatly affected by his own story. As he finishes, the moon rises behind him, and the Hobbits spot a small, dark shape at the top of the hill. They suddenly feel very uneasy. Sam and Merry scout the edge of the dell, but soon return and report that they suddenly felt very afraid and that Merry spotted two or three dark shapes moving towards them. The party prepares for a fight, as Strider commands them to pick up longer sticks from the fire.

As the party huddles around the fire, facing outwards, dark shapes begin appearing around the lip of the dell. Soon, the party is surrounded by four tall black figures, seeming darker than the darkness behind them. Pippin and Merry cower on the ground in terror, but Sam stays close to Frodo. Frodo suddenly feels a powerful temptation to put on the Ring. Despite remembering every reason not to, he puts the Ring on his finger.

Now under the Ring's effect, Frodo can see the Black Riders in their true form: five tall figures with white faces, merciless eyes, and grey hair, wearing long robes and silver helmets, and wielding swords. Three Riders rush towards him, and he pulls out his sword, which seems to burn bright red. Though two stop in their tracks at this sight, one continues to advance: a taller figure wearing a crown, holding a long-sword and a knife.

Frodo throws himself on the ground, crying "O Elbereth! Gilthoniel!", and swinging his sword at the crowned figure's feet. The figure shrieks in pain, and then stabs Frodo in the left shoulder.

Before passing out in pain, Frodo glimpses Strider leaping at the figure with flaming brands of wood in each hand. Frodo drops his sword, grabs the Ring, and pulls it off his finger, holding it very tightly.

[[Category:The Fellowship of the Ring chapters|Knife in the Dark]]
[[fi:Veitsi yössä (TSH)]]

A Knife in the Dark

2023-07-28T01:23:12Z

Headrock: /* Summary */

{{chapter
| image=Ted Nasmith - Fire on Weathertop.jpg
| title=A Knife in the Dark
| book=The Fellowship of the Ring
| number=11
| event=[[Fredegar Bolger|Fatty]] is attacked at [[Crickhollow]]; [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] and [[Strider (Aragorn)|Strider]] leave and are attacked at [[Weathertop]].
| date=[[30 September]]-[[6 October]] {{TA|3018|n}}
| location=[[Crickhollow]], [[Bree]], and [[Weathertop]]
| previous=Strider (chapter)
| next=Flight to the Ford
}}

'''A Knife in the Dark''' is the eleventh chapter of the first book in ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.

In this chapter, [[Fredegar Bolger|Fatty Bolger]] is attacked by [[Black Riders]] at [[Crickhollow]], but the [[Bucklanders]] scare them away. The Black Riders attack the [[Prancing Pony]], but cannot find the [[Hobbits]]. The Hobbits lose their ponies, but purchase [[Bill the Pony]] to replace them. They make their way to [[Weathertop]] together with [[Strider]], where Black Riders attack them in force. [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] is stabbed with a [[Morgul-knife]].

==Summary==

Back at [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]]'s new "home" in [[Crickhollow]], [[Fredegar Bolger|Fatty Bolger]] has been having an uneasy sensation all day. That night, he sees dark shadows in the trees, and his gate opens and closes of its own accord. Three dark figures arrive at the house, surrounding it on all sides. One figure demands he open the door, and then all three break inside. Suddenly, a horn blows in the distance.

{{quote|AWAKE! FEAR! FIRE! FOES! AWAKE!|The [[Horn-call of Buckland]]}}

Fatty had escaped the house before the [[Black Riders]] broke in, and ran a whole mile to call for help. The [[Bucklanders]], fearing an invasion from the [[Old Forest]], sounded the alarm [[Fell Winter (Third Age)|for the first time in a hundred years]]. The Black Riders flee Crickhollow, and we are told that they now realize [[The One Ring]] has already left the area.

Back in [[Bree]], [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] has trouble sleeping. He dreams again of a wind in the east, and the gallop of hooves. He wakes up just before dawn, hearing a horn blowing far off in the distance.

[[Strider]] leads the [[Hobbits]] to their rooms, where they discover that the doors have been bashed in and their beds have been slashed and ransacked. They wake [[Barliman Butterbur]], who is appalled at this turn of events. Frodo, [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]], [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] and [[Pippin Took|Pippin]] prepare to leave with Strider as soon as possible, skipping breakfast. Barliman goes to fetch their ponies, but discovers that the stable doors had been opened and the ponies are gone. Strider reassures them that ponies would not have sped up their journey by much, on the roads he intends to take.

Frodo inquires whether more ponies could be purchased in the village. Barliman replies that the chances are low, but sends his assistants out to look anyway. Strider laments that they will no longer be able to leave Bree unnoticed, but the Hobbits are glad to have a chance to eat breakfast while they wait. The wait lasts three hours.

Barliman's assistant [[Bob]] finally returns with bad news: He could find only [[Bill the Pony|one pony for sale]], at a very steep price, belonging to [[Bill Ferny]].

{{quote|A poor old half-starved creature it is, but he won't part with it for less than thrice its worth, seeing how you're placed, not if I knows Bill Ferny.|[[Bob]]}}

Frodo worries that the pony would bolt right back to Bill Ferny with all their belongings. Strider is confident that no animal would want to return to Bill Ferny. Bill's price is 12 silver pennies, which Barliman Butterbur offers to pay out of his own pocket, giving Merry another 18 silvers for his lost ponies. We're told that Merry's lost ponies were later found by [[Tom Bombadil]], one having been stolen and the others having wandered across [[Bree-land]]. Tom collected them and returned them to Barliman, who ultimately benefited from his generosity.

The other guests at the inn are outraged to find that some of their animals had also escaped. However, they soon discover that the southerner who had conferred with Bill Ferny has also disappeared, and the blame quickly falls on him. When Barliman chastises the southerners for bringing a thief with them, it turns out that none of them had actually arrived with him nor knew who he was.

Due to the events and commotion of the previous night, many people come to see the Hobbits leave Bree. Strider decides to lead the Hobbits out the main road, as leaving into the wilderness would only arouse more suspicion. Frodo gives a heartfelt farewell to Barliman Butterbur and his loyal assistants.

The Hobbits make their way out of Bree. In the window of the last house on the road, Frodo spots the southerner peeking out at them. Outside the house is Bill Ferny, who sneers at Strider, calling him "Longshanks". He warns the Hobbits not to trust Strider. Strider does not reply, but Sam throws an apple he'd been eating at Ferny's face.

Several people follow the Hobbits a short way out of the village, but quickly turn back. The party passes the Hobbit village of [[Staddle]], and shortly after that Strider takes them off the road and into the country. Pippin complains about short cuts, citing the troubles they'd caused the Hobbits previously. Strider reassures him:

{{quote|Ah, but you had not got me with you then. My cuts, short or long, don't go wrong.|[[Strider]]}}

At first, Strider leads the Hobbits on a winding path to throw off any pursuit. The next day, he straightens their course eastward, and soon they reach the [[Midgewater Marshes]]. Midges begin tormenting them as they make their way slowly across the marsh. The incessant bites and the sound of [[Neekerbreekers|unknown bog-creatures]] keeps them up at night.

On the night of [[3 October]], Frodo wakes up to see flashes of light far away in the east. Strider has no idea what they are, describing them only as "lightning that leaps up from the hill-tops". He maintains a vigil over the camp that whole night.

On [[4 October]], the party leaves the Marshes and spots in the distance a strange, conical hill with a flat top. Strider calls it [[Weathertop]] - the halfway point between Bree and [[Rivendell]]. Strider considers heading straight towards it, though he's unsure what they might find there. Frodo says he assumed that Gandalf would be waiting for them there, but Strider says that this is unlikely. He points out that the chance of both Gandalf and the party reaching Weathertop at the same time is slim; and also that the [[Black Riders]] will likely make their way to the hill if they can't find the Hobbits elsewhere. He warns that some birds may have been employed as their spies. He concludes that the safest course would be to approach the hill from an unexpected direction.

On the morning of [[5 October]], the Hobbits have a relatively meager breakfast. Pippin notices that Frodo seems "twice the Hobbit that he had been". Frodo, however, feels much thinner, and worries that if he continues thinning he might "turn into a wraith". Strider is very disturbed by this, and urgently commands him not to speak of such things.

That night, the party reaches the hills north of Weathertop. On the morning of [[6 October]] they turn south, following a path leading down to Weathertop that seems to have been specially designed to keep travelers hidden from view. The boulders lining the path remind Merry of the Standing Stones in the [[Barrow-downs]]. This prompts Strider to explain the history of Weathertop. He says that the hill was once a magnificent watch-tower built by [[Men of the West]] as part of their defensive lines against [[Angmar]]. He names the tower "Amon Sûl", and says that it was almost completely destroyed. He demonstrates an impressive knowledge of ancient lore, reporting that [[Elendil]] was said to have stood there watching for the coming of [[Gil-Galad]] in the days of the [[Last Alliance]].

Merry asks who Gil-Galad was. Strider seems to be lost in thought about this, but suddenly Sam begins singing [[The Fall of Gil-galad|part of a song about Gil-Galad]], amazing everyone. Sam says he learned the song from [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]], who had also taught him how to read. Sam claims that Bilbo wrote the song himself. Strider corrects him, saying that the song was originally written in an ancient tongue, which Bilbo must have translated; he is pleasantly surprised. Sam adds that he wouldn't learn the rest of the song because it was about going to [[Mordor]]. Pippin hopes aloud that they won't have to go to Mordor. Strider commands him not to speak that name out loud again.

The party finally reaches Weathertop, and locates a sheltered dell on its western side. Sam and Pippin remain there with the pony, while the others make their way to the top. As Strider said earlier, the watch-tower is burnt and ruined, and there is no sign of Gandalf. Strider says that Gandalf rides very fast, and might have reached Weathertop before they did. Indeed, Strider soon finds an unusual rock bearing small scratches, which he interprets as the [[Angerthas]] rune for "G" followed by the number 3 - indicating that Gandalf had been there on 3 October. Since Gandalf left only a few cryptic marks, Strider concludes that he must have been in quite a hurry to leave the tower, and worried that someone sinister might find the message.

Strider observes fresh burn marks upon the stones, and speculates that Gandalf must have fought something in the tower on 3 October - explaining the lights they had observed in the east that night. He says the party will have to make its way to Rivendell without Gandalf. Merry asks how far Rivendell is. Strider is unsure; he estimates that it would have taken him about 12 days to reach the [[Ford of Bruinen]] by road, but since the party will likely have to stay off the road, it might take at least a fortnight.

Frodo feels homesick as he looks at the road headed back west from the tower. Suddenly, he notices two black specks on the road, moving westward, and three other black specks moving eastward to meet them. He tells Strider, who drops quickly to the ground, pulling Frodo with him. They creep up to the edge of the hill to observes the specks as the evening falls.

{{quote|The enemy is here!|[[Strider]]}}

Strider, Frodo and Merry return to the dell. Meanwhile, Sam and Pippin have explored the area, and found signs of a recent campsite next to a spring, with fresh boot marks and bundles of firewood. Strider examines these, concluding that Rangers had been there a few days earlier and left that firewood, though the tracks had mostly been ruined by Sam and Pippin. He also notices many heavy bootprints, which disturb him.

Sam suggests leaving Weathertop as soon as possible. Strider considers this, but concludes that there is nowhere better to go, especially at night when they will surely be spotted leaving. At the Hobbits' inquiries, he explains that the Black Riders can "see" vague shapes, except in the bright light of the sun; can smell the blood of living creatures; and can feel them in their vicinity as keenly as the Hobbits had felt unease at the presence of the Riders. He rues his mistake of wandering carelessly on the hill-top. Finally, he adds that [[The One Ring]] attracts the Riders. Frodo seems to lose hope of ever escaping the Riders.

{{quote|There is still hope. You are not alone. Let us take this wood that is set ready for the fire as a sign. There is little shelter or defence here, but fire shall serve for both. Sauron can put fire to his evil use, as he can all things, but these Riders do not love it, and fear those who wield it. Fire is our friend in the wilderness.|[[Strider]]}}

The party sets up a campfire deep in the dell, and sits down to eat. Frodo is worried that their food stores won't last until Rivendell, but Strider reassures him that food can be gathered from the wild. He bids the Hobbits think of the tables at [[Elrond]]'s house.

As the night darkens, Strider begins telling the Hobbits tales of times long ago. They wonder how old Strider really is. They ask him again about Gil-Galad, and he replies that Frodo might actually know some of the story. Frodo confirms that he had heard it from Gandalf, and begins telling the tale. Strider quickly stops him, saying that he should not speak of it while servants of the Enemy are nearby, bidding the Hobbits wait until they reach Rivendell.

Instead, Strider tells the Hobbits the tale of [[Tinúviel]], though he claims that only Elrond now remembers the tale properly. After a long pause, he sings the [[Song of Beren and Lúthien]]. After completing the song's many verses, he explains the tale in plain words, telling of the meeting between the [[Men|mortal man]] [[Beren]] and the [[Elf|elvish princess]] [[Lúthien]] during the [[First Age]]; the war against the [[Great Enemy]]; and the retrieval of one of the stolen [[Silmarils]]. He tells of how Beren died at the hands of the [[Carcharoth|Wolf of Angband]], and how Lúthien gave up her immortality in order to join him in the afterlife. Their union, Strider adds, gave birth to a [[Half-elven]] lineage from which Elrond is descended, as well as [[Eärendil]] who sired the kings of [[Númenor]].

Strider seems greatly affected by his own story. As he finishes, the moon rises behind him, and the Hobbits spot a small, dark shape at the top of the hill. They suddenly feel very uneasy. Sam and Merry scout the edge of the dell, but soon return and report that they suddenly felt very afraid and that Merry spotted two or three dark shapes moving towards them. The party prepares for a fight, as Strider commands them to pick up longer sticks from the fire.

As the party huddles around the fire, facing outwards, dark shapes begin appearing around the lip of the dell. Soon, the party is surrounded by four tall black figures, seeming darker than the darkness behind them. Pippin and Merry cower on the ground in terror, but Sam stays close to Frodo. Frodo suddenly feels a powerful temptation to put on the Ring. Despite remembering every reason not to, he puts the Ring on his finger.

Now under the Ring's effect, Frodo can see the Black Riders in their true form: five tall figures with white faces, merciless eyes, and grey hair, wearing long robes and silver helmets, and wielding swords. Three Riders rush towards him, and he pulls out his sword, which seems to burn bright red. Though two stop in their tracks at this sight, one continues to advance: a taller figure wearing a crown, holding a long-sword and a knife.

Frodo throws himself on the ground, crying "O Elbereth! Gilthoniel!", and swinging his sword at the crowned figure's feet. The figure shrieks in pain, and then stabs Frodo in the left shoulder.

Before passing out in pain, Frodo glimpses Strider leaping at the figure with flaming brands of wood in each hand. Frodo drops his sword, grabs the Ring, and pulls it off his finger, holding it very tightly.

[[Category:The Fellowship of the Ring chapters|Knife in the Dark]]
[[fi:Veitsi yössä (TSH)]]

A Knife in the Dark

2023-07-28T01:17:47Z

Headrock: /* Summary */

{{chapter
| image=Ted Nasmith - Fire on Weathertop.jpg
| title=A Knife in the Dark
| book=The Fellowship of the Ring
| number=11
| event=[[Fredegar Bolger|Fatty]] is attacked at [[Crickhollow]]; [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] and [[Strider (Aragorn)|Strider]] leave and are attacked at [[Weathertop]].
| date=[[30 September]]-[[6 October]] {{TA|3018|n}}
| location=[[Crickhollow]], [[Bree]], and [[Weathertop]]
| previous=Strider (chapter)
| next=Flight to the Ford
}}

'''A Knife in the Dark''' is the eleventh chapter of the first book in ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.

In this chapter, [[Fredegar Bolger|Fatty Bolger]] is attacked by [[Black Riders]] at [[Crickhollow]], but the [[Bucklanders]] scare them away. The Black Riders attack the [[Prancing Pony]], but cannot find the [[Hobbits]]. The Hobbits lose their ponies, but purchase [[Bill the Pony]] to replace them. They make their way to [[Weathertop]] together with [[Strider]], where Black Riders attack them in force. [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] is stabbed with a [[Morgul-knife]].

==Summary==

Back at [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]]'s new "home" in [[Crickhollow]], [[Fredegar Bolger|Fatty Bolger]] has been having an uneasy sensation all day. That night, he sees dark shadows in the trees, and his gate opens and closes of its own accord. Three dark figures arrive at the house, surrounding it on all sides. One figure demands he open the door, and then all three break inside. Suddenly, a horn blows in the distance.

{{quote|AWAKE! FEAR! FIRE! FOES! AWAKE!|The [[Horn-call of Buckland]]}}

Fatty had escaped the house before the [[Black Riders]] broke in, and ran a whole mile to call for help. The [[Bucklanders]], fearing an invasion from the [[Old Forest]], sounded the alarm [[Fell Winter (Third Age)|for the first time in a hundred years]]. The Black Riders flee Crickhollow, and we are told that they now realize [[The One Ring]] has already left the area.

Back in [[Bree]], [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] has trouble sleeping. He dreams again of a wind in the east, and the gallop of hooves. He wakes up just before dawn, hearing a horn blowing far off in the distance.

[[Strider]] leads the [[Hobbits]] to their rooms, where they discover that the doors have been bashed in and their beds have been slashed and ransacked. They wake [[Barliman Butterbur]], who is appalled at this turn of events. Frodo, [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]], [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] and [[Pippin Took|Pippin]] prepare to leave with Strider as soon as possible, skipping breakfast. Barliman goes to fetch their ponies, but discovers that the stable doors had been opened and the ponies are gone. Strider reassures them that ponies would not have sped up their journey by much, on the roads he intends to take.

Frodo inquires whether more ponies could be purchased in the village. Barliman replies that the chances are low, but sends his assistants out to look anyway. Strider laments that they will no longer be able to leave Bree unnoticed, but the Hobbits are glad to have a chance to eat breakfast while they wait. The wait lasts three hours.

Barliman's assistant [[Bob]] finally returns with bad news: He could find only [[Bill the Pony|one pony for sale]], at a very steep price, belonging to [[Bill Ferny]].

{{quote|A poor old half-starved creature it is, but he won't part with it for less than thrice its worth, seeing how you're placed, not if I knows Bill Ferny.|[[Bob]]}}

Frodo worries that the pony would bolt right back to Bill Ferny with all their belongings. Strider is confident that no animal would want to return to Bill Ferny. Bill's price is 12 silver pennies, which Barliman Butterbur offers to pay out of his own pocket, giving Merry another 18 silvers for his lost ponies. We're told that Merry's lost ponies were later found by [[Tom Bombadil]], one having been stolen and the others having wandered across [[Bree-land]]. Tom collected them and returned them to Barliman, who ultimately benefited from his generosity.

The other guests at the inn are outraged to find that some of their animals had also escaped. However, they soon discover that the southerner who had conferred with Bill Ferny has also disappeared, and the blame quickly falls on him. When Barliman chastises the southerners for bringing a thief with them, it turns out that none of them had actually arrived with him nor knew who he was.

Due to the events and commotion of the previous night, many people come to see the Hobbits leave Bree. Strider decides to lead the Hobbits out the main road, as leaving into the wilderness would only arouse more suspicion. Frodo gives a heartfelt farewell to Barliman Butterbur and his loyal assistants.

The Hobbits make their way out of Bree. In the window of the last house on the road, Frodo spots the southerner peeking out at them. Outside the house is Bill Ferny, who sneers at Strider, calling him "Longshanks". He warns the Hobbits not to trust Strider. Strider does not reply, but Sam throws an apple he'd been eating at Ferny's face.

Several people follow the Hobbits a short way out of the village, but quickly turn back. The party passes the Hobbit village of [[Staddle]], and shortly after that Strider takes them off the road and into the country. Pippin complains about short cuts, citing the troubles they'd caused the Hobbits previously. Strider reassures him:

{{quote|Ah, but you had not got me with you then. My cuts, short or long, don't go wrong.|[[Strider]]}}

At first, Strider leads the Hobbits on a winding path to throw off any pursuit. The next day, he straightens their course eastward, and soon they reach the [[Midgewater Marshes]]. Midges begin tormenting them as they make their way slowly across the marsh. The incessant bites and the sound of [[Neekerbreekers|unknown bog-creatures]] keeps them up at night.

On the night of [[3 October]], Frodo wakes up to see flashes of light far away in the east. Strider has no idea what it is, describing it only as "lightning that leaps up from the hill-tops". He maintains a vigil over the camp that whole night.

On [[4 October]], the party leaves the Marshes and spots in the distance a strange, conical hill with a flat top. Strider calls it [[Weathertop]] - the halfway point between Bree and [[Rivendell]]. Strider considers heading straight towards it, though he's unsure what they might find there. Frodo says he assumed that Gandalf would be waiting for them there, but Strider says that this is unlikely. He points out that the chance of both Gandalf and the party reaching Weathertop at the same time is slim; and also that the [[Black Riders]] will likely make their way to the hill if they can't find the Hobbits elsewhere. He warns that some birds may have been employed as their spies. He concludes that the safest course would be to approach the hill from an unexpected direction.

On the morning of [[5 October]], the Hobbits have a relatively meager breakfast. Pippin notices that Frodo seems "twice the Hobbit that he had been". Frodo, however, feels much thinner, and worries that if he continues thinning he might "turn into a wraith". Strider is very disturbed by this, and urgently commands him not to speak of such things.

That night, the party reaches the hills north of Weathertop. On the morning of [[6 October]] they turn south, following a path leading down to Weathertop that seems to have been specially designed to keep travelers hidden from view. The boulders lining the path remind Merry of the Standing Stones in the [[Barrow-downs]]. This prompts Strider to explain the history of Weathertop. He says that the hill was once a magnificent watch-tower built by [[Men of the West]] as part of their defensive lines against [[Angmar]]. He names the tower "Amon Sûl", and says that it was almost completely destroyed. He demonstrates an impressive knowledge of ancient lore, reporting that [[Elendil]] was said to have stood there watching for the coming of [[Gil-Galad]] in the days of the [[Last Alliance]].

Merry asks who Gil-Galad was. Strider seems to be lost in thought about this, but suddenly Sam begins singing [[The Fall of Gil-galad|part of a song about Gil-Galad]], amazing everyone. Sam says he learned the song from [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]], who had also taught him how to read. Sam claims that Bilbo wrote the song himself. Strider corrects him, saying that the song was originally written in an ancient tongue, which Bilbo must have translated; he is pleasantly surprised. Sam adds that he wouldn't learn the rest of the song because it was about going to [[Mordor]]. Pippin hopes aloud that they won't have to go to Mordor. Strider commands him not to speak that name out loud again.

The party finally reaches Weathertop, and locates a sheltered dell on its western side. Sam and Pippin remain there with the pony, while the others make their way to the top. As Strider said earlier, the watch-tower is burnt and ruined, and there is no sign of Gandalf. Strider says that Gandalf rides very fast, and might have reached Weathertop before they did. Indeed, Strider soon finds an unusual rock bearing small scratches, which he interprets as the [[Angerthas]] rune for "G" followed by the number 3 - indicating that Gandalf had been there on 3 October. Since Gandalf left only a few cryptic marks, Strider concludes that he must have been in quite a hurry to leave the tower, and worried that someone sinister might find the message.

Strider observes fresh burn marks upon the stones, and speculates that Gandalf must have fought something in the tower on 3 October - explaining the lights they had observed in the east that night. He says the party will have to make its way to Rivendell without Gandalf. Merry asks how far Rivendell is. Strider is unsure; he estimates that it would have taken him about 12 days to reach the [[Ford of Bruinen]] by road, but since the party will likely have to stay off the road, it might take at least a fortnight.

Frodo feels homesick as he looks at the road headed back west from the tower. Suddenly, he notices two black specks on the road, moving westward, and three other black specks moving eastward to meet them. He tells Strider, who drops quickly to the ground, pulling Frodo with him. They creep up to the edge of the hill to observes the specks as the evening falls.

{{quote|The enemy is here!|[[Strider]]}}

Strider, Frodo and Merry return to the dell. Meanwhile, Sam and Pippin have explored the area, and found signs of a recent campsite next to a spring, with fresh boot marks and bundles of firewood. Strider examines these, concluding that Rangers had been there a few days earlier and left that firewood, though the tracks had mostly been ruined by Sam and Pippin. He also notices many heavy bootprints, which disturb him.

Sam suggests leaving Weathertop as soon as possible. Strider considers this, but concludes that there is nowhere better to go, especially at night when they will surely be spotted leaving. At the Hobbits' inquiries, he explains that the Black Riders can "see" vague shapes, except in the bright light of the sun; can smell the blood of living creatures; and can feel them in their vicinity as keenly as the Hobbits had felt unease at the presence of the Riders. He rues his mistake of wandering carelessly on the hill-top. Finally, he adds that [[The One Ring]] attracts the Riders. Frodo seems to lose hope of ever escaping the Riders.

{{quote|There is still hope. You are not alone. Let us take this wood that is set ready for the fire as a sign. There is little shelter or defence here, but fire shall serve for both. Sauron can put fire to his evil use, as he can all things, but these Riders do not love it, and fear those who wield it. Fire is our friend in the wilderness.|[[Strider]]}}

The party sets up a campfire deep in the dell, and sits down to eat. Frodo is worried that their food stores won't last until Rivendell, but Strider reassures him that food can be gathered from the wild. He bids the Hobbits think of the tables at [[Elrond]]'s house.

As the night darkens, Strider begins telling the Hobbits tales of times long ago. They wonder how old Strider really is. They ask him again about Gil-Galad, and he replies that Frodo might actually know some of the story. Frodo confirms that he had heard it from Gandalf, and begins telling the tale. Strider quickly stops him, saying that he should not speak of it while servants of the Enemy are nearby, bidding the Hobbits wait until they reach Rivendell.

Instead, Strider tells the Hobbits the tale of [[Tinúviel]], though he claims that only Elrond now remembers the tale properly. After a long pause, he sings the [[Song of Beren and Lúthien]]. After completing the song's many verses, he explains the tale in plain words, telling of the meeting between the [[Men|mortal man]] [[Beren]] and the [[Elf|elvish princess]] [[Lúthien]] during the [[First Age]]; the war against the [[Great Enemy]]; and the retrieval of one of the stolen [[Silmarils]]. He tells of how Beren died at the hands of the [[Carcharoth|Wolf of Angband]], and how Lúthien gave up her immortality in order to join him in the afterlife. Their union, Strider adds, gave birth to a [[Half-elven]] lineage from which Elrond is descended, as well as [[Eärendil]] who sired the kings of [[Númenor]].

Strider seems greatly affected by his own story. As he finishes, the moon rises behind him, and the Hobbits spot a small, dark shape at the top of the hill. They suddenly feel very uneasy. Sam and Merry scout the edge of the dell, but soon return and report that they suddenly felt very afraid and that Merry spotted two or three dark shapes moving towards them. The party prepares for a fight, as Strider commands them to pick up longer sticks from the fire.

As the party huddles around the fire, facing outwards, dark shapes begin appearing around the lip of the dell. Soon, the party is surrounded by four tall black figures, seeming darker than the darkness behind them. Pippin and Merry cower on the ground in terror, but Sam stays close to Frodo. Frodo suddenly feels a powerful temptation to put on the Ring. Despite remembering every reason not to, he puts the Ring on his finger.

Now under the Ring's effect, Frodo can see the Black Riders in their true form: five tall figures with white faces, merciless eyes, and grey hair, wearing long robes and silver helmets, and wielding swords. Three Riders rush towards him, and he pulls out his sword, which seems to burn bright red. Though two stop in their tracks at this sight, one continues to advance: a taller figure wearing a crown, holding a long-sword and a knife.

Frodo throws himself on the ground, crying "O Elbereth! Gilthoniel!", and swinging his sword at the crowned figure's feet. The figure shrieks in pain, and then stabs Frodo in the left shoulder.

Before passing out in pain, Frodo glimpses Strider leaping at the figure with flaming brands of wood in each hand. Frodo drops his sword, grabs the Ring, and pulls it off his finger, holding it very tightly.

[[Category:The Fellowship of the Ring chapters|Knife in the Dark]]
[[fi:Veitsi yössä (TSH)]]

A Knife in the Dark

2023-07-28T01:15:47Z

Headrock:

{{chapter
| image=Ted Nasmith - Fire on Weathertop.jpg
| title=A Knife in the Dark
| book=The Fellowship of the Ring
| number=11
| event=[[Fredegar Bolger|Fatty]] is attacked at [[Crickhollow]]; [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] and [[Strider (Aragorn)|Strider]] leave and are attacked at [[Weathertop]].
| date=[[30 September]]-[[6 October]] {{TA|3018|n}}
| location=[[Crickhollow]], [[Bree]], and [[Weathertop]]
| previous=Strider (chapter)
| next=Flight to the Ford
}}

'''A Knife in the Dark''' is the eleventh chapter of the first book in ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.

In this chapter, [[Fredegar Bolger|Fatty Bolger]] is attacked by [[Black Riders]] at [[Crickhollow]], but the [[Bucklanders]] scare them away. The Black Riders attack the [[Prancing Pony]], but cannot find the [[Hobbits]]. The Hobbits lose their ponies, but purchase [[Bill the Pony]] to replace them. They make their way to [[Weathertop]] together with [[Strider]], where Black Riders attack them in force. [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] is stabbed with a [[Morgul-knife]].

==Summary==

Back at [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]]'s new "home" in [[Crickhollow]], [[Fredegar Bolger|Fatty Bolger]] has been having an uneasy sensation all day. That night, he sees dark shadows in the trees, and his gate opens and closes of its own accord. Three dark figures arrive at the house, surrounding it on all sides. One figure demands he open the door, and then all three break inside. Suddenly, a horn blows in the distance.

{{quote|AWAKE! FEAR! FIRE! FOES! AWAKE!|The [[Horn-call of Buckland]]}}

Fatty had escaped the house before the [[Black Riders]] broke in, and ran a whole mile to call for help. The [[Bucklanders]], fearing an invasion from the [[Old Forest]], sounded the alarm [[Fell Winter (Third Age)|for the first time in a hundred years]]. The Black Riders flee Crickhollow, and we are told that they now realize [[The One Ring]] has already left the area.

Back in [[Bree]], [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] has trouble sleeping. He dreams again of a wind in the east, and the gallop of hooves. He wakes up just before dawn, hearing a horn blowing far off in the distance.

[[Strider]] leads the [[Hobbits]] to their rooms, where they discover that the doors have been bashed in and their beds have been slashed and ransacked. They wake [[Barliman Butterbur]], who is appalled at this turn of events. Frodo, [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]], [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] and [[Pippin Took|Pippin]] prepare to leave with Strider as soon as possible, skipping breakfast. Barliman goes to fetch their ponies, but discovers that the stable doors had been opened and the ponies are gone. Strider reassures them that ponies would not have sped up their journey by much, on the roads he intends to take.

Frodo inquires whether more ponies could be purchased in the village. Barliman replies that the chances are low, but sends his assistants out to look anyway. Strider laments that they will no longer be able to leave Bree unnoticed, but the Hobbits are glad to have a chance to eat breakfast while they wait. The wait lasts three hours.

Barliman's assistant [[Bob]] finally returns with bad news: He could find only [[Bill the Pony|one pony for sale]], at a very steep price, belonging to [[Bill Ferny]].

{{quote|A poor old half-starved creature it is, but he won't part with it for less than thrice its worth, seeing how you're placed, not if I knows Bill Ferny.|[[Bob]]}}

Frodo worries that the pony would bolt right back to Bill Ferny with all their belonging. Strider is confident that no animal would want to return to Bill Ferny. Bill's price is 12 silver pennies, which Barliman Butterbur offers to pay out of his own pocket, giving Merry another 18 silvers for his lost ponies. We're told that Merry's lost ponies were later found by [[Tom Bombadil]], one having been stolen and the others having wandered across [[Bree-land]]. Tom collected them and returned them to Barliman, who ultimately benefited from his generosity.

The other guests at the inn are outraged to find that some of their animals had also escaped. However, they soon discover that the southerner who had conferred with Bill Ferny has also disappeared, and the blame quickly falls on him. When Barliman chastises the southerners for bringing a thief with them, it turns out that none of them had actually arrived with him nor knew who he was.

Due to the events and commotion of the previous night, many people come to see the Hobbits leave Bree. Strider decides to lead the Hobbits out the main road, as leaving into the wilderness would only arouse more suspicion. Frodo gives a heartfelt farewell to Barliman Butterbur and his loyal assistants.

The Hobbits make their way out of Bree. In the window of the last house on the road, Frodo spots the southerner peeking out at them. Outside the house is Bill Ferny, who sneers at Strider, calling him "Longshanks". He warns the Hobbits not to trust Strider. Strider does not reply, but Sam throws an apple he'd been eating at Ferny's face.

Several people follow the Hobbits a short way out of the village, but quickly turn back. The party passes the Hobbit village of [[Staddle]], and shortly after that Strider takes them off the road and into the country. Pippin complains about short cuts, citing the troubles they'd caused the Hobbits previously. Strider reassures him:

{{quote|Ah, but you had not got me with you then. My cuts, short or long, don't go wrong.|[[Strider]]}}

At first, Strider leads the Hobbits on a winding path to throw off any pursuit. The next day, he straightens their course eastward, and soon they reach the [[Midgewater Marshes]]. Midges begin tormenting them as they make their way slowly across the marsh. The incessant bites and the sound of [[Neekerbreekers|unknown bog-creatures]] keeps them up at night.

On the night of [[3 October]], Frodo wakes up to see flashes of light far away in the east. Strider has no idea what it is, describing it only as "lightning that leaps up from the hill-tops". He maintains a vigil over the camp that whole night.

On [[4 October]], the party leaves the Marshes and spots in the distance a strange, conical hill with a flat top. Strider calls it [[Weathertop]] - the halfway point between Bree and [[Rivendell]]. Strider considers heading straight towards it, though he's unsure what they might find there. Frodo says he assumed that Gandalf would be waiting for them there, but Strider says that this is unlikely. He points out that the chance of both Gandalf and the party reaching Weathertop at the same time is slim; and also that the [[Black Riders]] will likely make their way to the hill if they can't find the Hobbits elsewhere. He warns that some birds may have been employed as their spies. He concludes that the safest course would be to approach the hill from an unexpected direction.

On the morning of [[5 October]], the Hobbits have a relatively meager breakfast. Pippin notices that Frodo seems "twice the Hobbit that he had been". Frodo, however, feels much thinner, and worries that if he continues thinning he might "turn into a wraith". Strider is very disturbed by this, and urgently commands him not to speak of such things.

That night, the party reaches the hills north of Weathertop. On the morning of [[6 October]] they turn south, following a path leading down to Weathertop that seems to have been specially designed to keep travelers hidden from view. The boulders lining the path remind Merry of the Standing Stones in the [[Barrow-downs]]. This prompts Strider to explain the history of Weathertop. He says that the hill was once a magnificent watch-tower built by [[Men of the West]] as part of their defensive lines against [[Angmar]]. He names the tower "Amon Sûl", and says that it was almost completely destroyed. He demonstrates an impressive knowledge of ancient lore, reporting that [[Elendil]] was said to have stood there watching for the coming of [[Gil-Galad]] in the days of the [[Last Alliance]].

Merry asks who Gil-Galad was. Strider seems to be lost in thought about this, but suddenly Sam begins singing [[The Fall of Gil-galad|part of a song about Gil-Galad]], amazing everyone. Sam says he learned the song from [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]], who had also taught him how to read. Sam claims that Bilbo wrote the song himself. Strider corrects him, saying that the song was originally written in an ancient tongue, which Bilbo must have translated; he is pleasantly surprised. Sam adds that he wouldn't learn the rest of the song because it was about going to [[Mordor]]. Pippin hopes aloud that they won't have to go to Mordor. Strider commands him not to speak that name out loud again.

The party finally reaches Weathertop, and locates a sheltered dell on its western side. Sam and Pippin remain there with the pony, while the others make their way to the top. As Strider said earlier, the watch-tower is burnt and ruined, and there is no sign of Gandalf. Strider says that Gandalf rides very fast, and might have reached Weathertop before they did. Indeed, Strider soon finds an unusual rock bearing small scratches, which he interprets as the [[Angerthas]] rune for "G" followed by the number 3 - indicating that Gandalf had been there on 3 October. Since Gandalf left only a few cryptic marks, Strider concludes that he must have been in quite a hurry to leave the tower, and worried that someone sinister might find the message.

Strider observes fresh burn marks upon the stones, and speculates that Gandalf must have fought something in the tower on 3 October - explaining the lights they had observed in the east that night. He says the party will have to make its way to Rivendell without Gandalf. Merry asks how far Rivendell is. Strider is unsure; he estimates that it would have taken him about 12 days to reach the [[Ford of Bruinen]] by road, but since the party will likely have to stay off the road, it might take at least a fortnight.

Frodo feels homesick as he looks at the road headed back west from the tower. Suddenly, he notices two black specks on the road, moving westward, and three other black specks moving eastward to meet them. He tells Strider, who drops quickly to the ground, pulling Frodo with him. They creep up to the edge of the hill to observes the specks as the evening falls.

{{quote|The enemy is here!|[[Strider]]}}

Strider, Frodo and Merry return to the dell. Meanwhile, Sam and Pippin have explored the area, and found signs of a recent campsite next to a spring, with fresh boot marks and bundles of firewood. Strider examines these, concluding that Rangers had been there a few days earlier and left that firewood, though the tracks had mostly been ruined by Sam and Pippin. He also notices many heavy bootprints, which disturb him.

Sam suggests leaving Weathertop as soon as possible. Strider considers this, but concludes that there is nowhere better to go, especially at night when they will surely be spotted leaving. At the Hobbits' inquiries, he explains that the Black Riders can "see" vague shapes, except in the bright light of the sun; can smell the blood of living creatures; and can feel them in their vicinity as keenly as the Hobbits had felt unease at the presence of the Riders. He rues his mistake of wandering carelessly on the hill-top. Finally, he adds that [[The One Ring]] attracts the Riders. Frodo seems to lose hope of ever escaping the Riders.

{{quote|There is still hope. You are not alone. Let us take this wood that is set ready for the fire as a sign. There is little shelter or defence here, but fire shall serve for both. Sauron can put fire to his evil use, as he can all things, but these Riders do not love it, and fear those who wield it. Fire is our friend in the wilderness.|[[Strider]]}}

The party sets up a campfire deep in the dell, and sits down to eat. Frodo is worried that their food stores won't last until Rivendell, but Strider reassures him that food can be gathered from the wild. He bids the Hobbits think of the tables at [[Elrond]]'s house.

As the night darkens, Strider begins telling the Hobbits tales of times long ago. They wonder how old Strider really is. They ask him again about Gil-Galad, and he replies that Frodo might actually know some of the story. Frodo confirms that he had heard it from Gandalf, and begins telling the tale. Strider quickly stops him, saying that he should not speak of it while servants of the Enemy are nearby, bidding the Hobbits wait until they reach Rivendell.

Instead, Strider tells the Hobbits the tale of [[Tinúviel]], though he claims that only Elrond now remembers the tale properly. After a long pause, he sings the [[Song of Beren and Lúthien]]. After completing the song's many verses, he explains the tale in plain words, telling of the meeting between the [[Men|mortal man]] [[Beren]] and the [[Elf|elvish princess]] [[Lúthien]] during the [[First Age]]; the war against the [[Great Enemy]]; and the retrieval of one of the stolen [[Silmarils]]. He tells of how Beren died at the hands of the [[Carcharoth|Wolf of Angband]], and how Lúthien gave up her immortality in order to join him in the afterlife. Their union, Strider adds, gave birth to a [[Half-elven]] lineage from which Elrond is descended, as well as [[Eärendil]] who sired the kings of [[Númenor]].

Strider seems greatly affected by his own story. As he finishes, the moon rises behind him, and the Hobbits spot a small, dark shape at the top of the hill. They suddenly feel very uneasy. Sam and Merry scout the edge of the dell, but soon return and report that they suddenly felt very afraid and that Merry spotted two or three dark shapes moving towards them. The party prepares for a fight, as Strider commands them to pick up longer sticks from the fire.

As the party huddles around the fire, facing outwards, dark shapes begin appearing around the lip of the dell. Soon, the party is surrounded by four tall black figures, seeming darker than the darkness behind them. Pippin and Merry cower on the ground in terror, but Sam stays close to Frodo. Frodo suddenly feels a powerful temptation to put on the Ring. Despite remembering every reason not to, he puts the Ring on his finger.

Now under the Ring's effect, Frodo can see the Black Riders in their true form: five tall figures with white faces, merciless eyes, and grey hair, wearing long robes and silver helmets, and wielding swords. Three Riders rush towards him, and he pulls out his sword, which seems to burn bright red. Though two stop in their tracks at this sight, one continues to advance: a taller figure wearing a crown, holding a long-sword and a knife.

Frodo throws himself on the ground, crying "O Elbereth! Gilthoniel!", and swinging his sword at the crowned figure's feet. The figure shrieks in pain, and then stabs Frodo in the left shoulder.

Before passing out in pain, Frodo glimpses Strider leaping at the figure with flaming brands of wood in each hand. Frodo drops his sword, grabs the Ring, and pulls it off his finger, holding it very tightly.

[[Category:The Fellowship of the Ring chapters|Knife in the Dark]]
[[fi:Veitsi yössä (TSH)]]

A Knife in the Dark

2023-07-28T01:14:23Z

Headrock:

{{chapter
| image=Ted Nasmith - Fire on Weathertop.jpg
| title=A Knife in the Dark
| book=The Fellowship of the Ring
| number=11
| event=[[Fredegar Bolger|Fatty]] is attacked at [[Crickhollow]]; [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] and [[Strider (Aragorn)|Strider]] leave and are attacked at [[Weathertop]].
| date=[[30 September]]-[[6 October]] {{TA|3018|n}}
| location=[[Crickhollow]], [[Bree]], and [[Weathertop]]
| previous=Strider (chapter)
| next=Flight to the Ford
}}

'''A Knife in the Dark''' is the eleventh chapter of the first book in ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.

In this chapter, [[Fredegar Bolger|Fatty Bolger]] is attacked by [[Black Riders]] at [[Crickhollow]], but the [[Bucklanders]] scare them away. The Black Riders attack the [[Prancing Pony]], but cannot find the [[Hobbits]]. The Hobbits lose their ponies, but purchase [[Bill the Pony]] to replace them. They make their way to [[Weathertop]] together with [[Strider]], where Black Riders attack them in force. [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] is stabbed with a [[Morgul-knife]].

==Summary==

Back at [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]]'s new "home" in [[Crickhollow]], [[Fredegar Bolger|Fatty Bolger]] has been having an uneasy sensation all day. That night, he sees dark shadows in the trees, and his gate opens and closes of its own accord. Three dark figures arrive at the house, surrounding it on all sides. One figure demands he open the door, and then all three break inside. Suddenly, a horn blows in the distance.

{{quote|AWAKE! FEAR! FIRE! FOES! AWAKE!|The [[Horn-call of Buckland]]}}

Fatty had escaped the house before the [[Black Riders]] broke in, and ran a whole mile to call for help. The [[Bucklanders]], fearing an invasion from the [[Old Forest]], sounded the alarm [[Fell Winter (Third Age)|for the first time in a hundred years]]. The Black Riders flee Crickhollow, and we are told that they now realize [[The One Ring]] has already left the area.

Back in [[Bree]], [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] has trouble sleeping. He dreams again of a wind in the east, and the gallop of hooves. He wakes up just before dawn, hearing a horn blowing far off in the distance.

[[Strider]] leads the Hobbits to their rooms, where they discover that the doors have been bashed in and their beds have been slashed and ransacked. They wake [[Barliman Butterbur]], who is appalled at this turn of events. Frodo, [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]], [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] and [[Pippin Took|Pippin]] prepare to leave with Strider as soon as possible, skipping breakfast. Barliman goes to fetch their ponies, but discovers that the stable doors had been opened and the ponies are gone. Strider reassures them that ponies would not have sped up their journey by much, on the roads he intends to take.

Frodo inquires whether more ponies could be purchased in the village. Barliman replies that the chances are low, but sends his assistants out to look anyway. Strider laments that they will no longer be able to leave Bree unnoticed, but the Hobbits are glad to have a chance to eat breakfast while they wait. The wait lasts three hours.

Barliman's assistant [[Bob]] finally returns with bad news: He could find only [[Bill the Pony|one pony for sale]], at a very steep price, belonging to [[Bill Ferny]].

{{quote|A poor old half-starved creature it is, but he won't part with it for less than thrice its worth, seeing how you're placed, not if I knows Bill Ferny.|[[Bob]]}}

Frodo worries that the pony would bolt right back to Bill Ferny with all their belonging. Strider is confident that no animal would want to return to Bill Ferny. Bill's price is 12 silver pennies, which Barliman Butterbur offers to pay out of his own pocket, giving Merry another 18 silvers for his lost ponies. We're told that Merry's lost ponies were later found by [[Tom Bombadil]], one having been stolen and the others having wandered across [[Bree-land]]. Tom collected them and returned them to Barliman, who ultimately benefited from his generosity.

The other guests at the inn are outraged to find that some of their animals had also escaped. However, they soon discover that the southerner who had conferred with Bill Ferny has also disappeared, and the blame quickly falls on him. When Barliman chastises the southerners for bringing a thief with them, it turns out that none of them had actually arrived with him nor knew who he was.

Due to the events and commotion of the previous night, many people come to see the Hobbits leave Bree. Strider decides to lead the Hobbits out the main road, as leaving into the wilderness would only arouse more suspicion. Frodo gives a heartfelt farewell to Barliman Butterbur and his loyal assistants.

The Hobbits make their way out of Bree. In the window of the last house on the road, Frodo spots the southerner peeking out at them. Outside the house is Bill Ferny, who sneers at Strider, calling him "Longshanks". He warns the Hobbits not to trust Strider. Strider does not reply, but Sam throws an apple he'd been eating at Ferny's face.

Several people follow the Hobbits a short way out of the village, but quickly turn back. The party passes the Hobbit village of [[Staddle]], and shortly after that Strider takes them off the road and into the country. Pippin complains about short cuts, citing the troubles they'd caused the Hobbits previously. Strider reassures him:

{{quote|Ah, but you had not got me with you then. My cuts, short or long, don't go wrong.|[[Strider]]}}

At first, Strider leads the Hobbits on a winding path to throw off any pursuit. The next day, he straightens their course eastward, and soon they reach the [[Midgewater Marshes]]. Midges begin tormenting them as they make their way slowly across the marsh. The incessant bites and the sound of [[Neekerbreekers|unknown bog-creatures]] keeps them up at night.

On the night of [[3 October]], Frodo wakes up to see flashes of light far away in the east. Strider has no idea what it is, describing it only as "lightning that leaps up from the hill-tops". He maintains a vigil over the camp that whole night.

On [[4 October]], the party leaves the Marshes and spots in the distance a strange, conical hill with a flat top. Strider calls it [[Weathertop]] - the halfway point between Bree and [[Rivendell]]. Strider considers heading straight towards it, though he's unsure what they might find there. Frodo says he assumed that Gandalf would be waiting for them there, but Strider says that this is unlikely. He points out that the chance of both Gandalf and the party reaching Weathertop at the same time is slim; and also that the [[Black Riders]] will likely make their way to the hill if they can't find the Hobbits elsewhere. He warns that some birds may have been employed as their spies. He concludes that the safest course would be to approach the hill from an unexpected direction.

On the morning of [[5 October]], the Hobbits have a relatively meager breakfast. Pippin notices that Frodo seems "twice the Hobbit that he had been". Frodo, however, feels much thinner, and worries that if he continues thinning he might "turn into a wraith". Strider is very disturbed by this, and urgently commands him not to speak of such things.

That night, the party reaches the hills north of Weathertop. On the morning of [[6 October]] they turn south, following a path leading down to Weathertop that seems to have been specially designed to keep travelers hidden from view. The boulders lining the path remind Merry of the Standing Stones in the [[Barrow-downs]]. This prompts Strider to explain the history of Weathertop. He says that the hill was once a magnificent watch-tower built by [[Men of the West]] as part of their defensive lines against [[Angmar]]. He names the tower "Amon Sûl", and says that it was almost completely destroyed. He demonstrates an impressive knowledge of ancient lore, reporting that [[Elendil]] was said to have stood there watching for the coming of [[Gil-Galad]] in the days of the [[Last Alliance]].

Merry asks who Gil-Galad was. Strider seems to be lost in thought about this, but suddenly Sam begins singing [[The Fall of Gil-galad|part of a song about Gil-Galad]], amazing everyone. Sam says he learned the song from [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]], who had also taught him how to read. Sam claims that Bilbo wrote the song himself. Strider corrects him, saying that the song was originally written in an ancient tongue, which Bilbo must have translated; he is pleasantly surprised. Sam adds that he wouldn't learn the rest of the song because it was about going to [[Mordor]]. Pippin hopes aloud that they won't have to go to Mordor. Strider commands him not to speak that name out loud again.

The party finally reaches Weathertop, and locates a sheltered dell on its western side. Sam and Pippin remain there with the pony, while the others make their way to the top. As Strider said earlier, the watch-tower is burnt and ruined, and there is no sign of Gandalf. Strider says that Gandalf rides very fast, and might have reached Weathertop before they did. Indeed, Strider soon finds an unusual rock bearing small scratches, which he interprets as the [[Angerthas]] rune for "G" followed by the number 3 - indicating that Gandalf had been there on 3 October. Since Gandalf left only a few cryptic marks, Strider concludes that he must have been in quite a hurry to leave the tower, and worried that someone sinister might find the message.

Strider observes fresh burn marks upon the stones, and speculates that Gandalf must have fought something in the tower on 3 October - explaining the lights they had observed in the east that night. He says the party will have to make its way to Rivendell without Gandalf. Merry asks how far Rivendell is. Strider is unsure; he estimates that it would have taken him about 12 days to reach the [[Ford of Bruinen]] by road, but since the party will likely have to stay off the road, it might take at least a fortnight.

Frodo feels homesick as he looks at the road headed back west from the tower. Suddenly, he notices two black specks on the road, moving westward, and three other black specks moving eastward to meet them. He tells Strider, who drops quickly to the ground, pulling Frodo with him. They creep up to the edge of the hill to observes the specks as the evening falls.

{{quote|The enemy is here!|[[Strider]]}}

Strider, Frodo and Merry return to the dell. Meanwhile, Sam and Pippin have explored the area, and found signs of a recent campsite next to a spring, with fresh boot marks and bundles of firewood. Strider examines these, concluding that Rangers had been there a few days earlier and left that firewood, though the tracks had mostly been ruined by Sam and Pippin. He also notices many heavy bootprints, which disturb him.

Sam suggests leaving Weathertop as soon as possible. Strider considers this, but concludes that there is nowhere better to go, especially at night when they will surely be spotted leaving. At the Hobbits' inquiries, he explains that the Black Riders can "see" vague shapes, except in the bright light of the sun; can smell the blood of living creatures; and can feel them in their vicinity as keenly as the Hobbits had felt unease at the presence of the Riders. He rues his mistake of wandering carelessly on the hill-top. Finally, he adds that [[The One Ring]] attracts the Riders. Frodo seems to lose hope of ever escaping the Riders.

{{quote|There is still hope. You are not alone. Let us take this wood that is set ready for the fire as a sign. There is little shelter or defence here, but fire shall serve for both. Sauron can put fire to his evil use, as he can all things, but these Riders do not love it, and fear those who wield it. Fire is our friend in the wilderness.|[[Strider]]}}

The party sets up a campfire deep in the dell, and sits down to eat. Frodo is worried that their food stores won't last until Rivendell, but Strider reassures him that food can be gathered from the wild. He bids the Hobbits think of the tables at [[Elrond]]'s house.

As the night darkens, Strider begins telling the Hobbits tales of times long ago. They wonder how old Strider really is. They ask him again about Gil-Galad, and he replies that Frodo might actually know some of the story. Frodo confirms that he had heard it from Gandalf, and begins telling the tale. Strider quickly stops him, saying that he should not speak of it while servants of the Enemy are nearby, bidding the Hobbits wait until they reach Rivendell.

Instead, Strider tells the Hobbits the tale of [[Tinúviel]], though he claims that only Elrond now remembers the tale properly. After a long pause, he sings the [[Song of Beren and Lúthien]]. After completing the song's many verses, he explains the tale in plain words, telling of the meeting between the [[Men|mortal man]] [[Beren]] and the [[Elf|elvish princess]] [[Lúthien]] during the [[First Age]]; the war against the [[Great Enemy]]; and the retrieval of one of the stolen [[Silmarils]]. He tells of how Beren died at the hands of the [[Carcharoth|Wolf of Angband]], and how Lúthien gave up her immortality in order to join him in the afterlife. Their union, Strider adds, gave birth to a [[Half-elven]] lineage from which Elrond is descended, as well as [[Eärendil]] who sired the kings of [[Númenor]].

Strider seems greatly affected by his own story. As he finishes, the moon rises behind him, and the Hobbits spot a small, dark shape at the top of the hill. They suddenly feel very uneasy. Sam and Merry scout the edge of the dell, but soon return and report that they suddenly felt very afraid and that Merry spotted two or three dark shapes moving towards them. The party prepares for a fight, as Strider commands them to pick up longer sticks from the fire.

As the party huddles around the fire, facing outwards, dark shapes begin appearing around the lip of the dell. Soon, the party is surrounded by four tall black figures, seeming darker than the darkness behind them. Pippin and Merry cower on the ground in terror, but Sam stays close to Frodo. Frodo suddenly feels a powerful temptation to put on the Ring. Despite remembering every reason not to, he puts the Ring on his finger.

Now under the Ring's effect, Frodo can see the Black Riders in their true form: five tall figures with white faces, merciless eyes, and grey hair, wearing long robes and silver helmets, and wielding swords. Three Riders rush towards him, and he pulls out his sword, which seems to burn bright red. Though two stop in their tracks at this sight, one continues to advance: a taller figure wearing a crown, holding a long-sword and a knife.

Frodo throws himself on the ground, crying "O Elbereth! Gilthoniel!", and swinging his sword at the crowned figure's feet. The figure shrieks in pain, and then stabs Frodo in the left shoulder.

Before passing out in pain, Frodo glimpses Strider leaping at the figure with flaming brands of wood in each hand. Frodo drops his sword, grabs the Ring, and pulls it off his finger, holding it very tightly.

[[Category:The Fellowship of the Ring chapters|Knife in the Dark]]
[[fi:Veitsi yössä (TSH)]]

Talk:A Knife in the Dark

2023-07-27T23:35:20Z

Headrock: /* New Summary */ new section

== New Summary ==

This chapter is one of the densest I've summarized so far. It is twice as long as the previous one, and to make matters even more complicated, it is absolutely ''full'' of occurrences, including at least five separate "stages" of different events. And if that wasn't enough, there are plenty of things happening here that either interconnect with each other or connect to events later in the novel.

All this has made summarizing incredibly complex. I cut out a ''lot'' of descriptions and even bits of conversation - anything that I could justify to myself. I was surprised to discover that the end result is still somehow ''NOT'' twice as long as the previous chapter's summary; but it still feels incredibly long.

I'm not sure much, if anything, can still be cut; but one thing I absolutely want advice about is the story of Tinuviel. Naturally, I did not quote any of the Song of Beren and Luthien, since there was not much reason nor space to do so; however Strider's explanation of the story is a whole page long (out of 20 pages of the chapter), so I felt like it should be summarized with at least some detail. I don't know how I've managed to stuff the whole thing into a single paragraph, but I admit it felt dirty to do so.

What do you guys think? I could easily expand it to two paragraphs... or remove the whole thing. I feel like it has to be mentioned ''somehow'', since it mirrors the romance between Aragorn and Arwen later on, but all of this lore has no actual bearing on the plot. I could use some advice about this, and of course any other part of this chapter.

P.S. Also note that the next chapter is also quite long, and there's the Council of Elrond coming up which would likely be twice as long even in summary...

--[[User:Headrock|Headrock]] ([[User talk:Headrock|talk]]) 23:35, 27 July 2023 (UTC)

A Knife in the Dark

2023-07-27T23:20:48Z

Headrock: This chapter is twice as long as the previous one, but I think this summary is not twice as long. I'm going to leave a more detailed explanation of what I've done in the Discussion page. Please come and discuss.

{{chapter
| image=Ted Nasmith - Fire on Weathertop.jpg
| title=A Knife in the Dark
| book=The Fellowship of the Ring
| number=11
| event=[[Fredegar Bolger|Fatty]] is attacked at [[Crickhollow]]; [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] and [[Strider (Aragorn)|Strider]] leave and are attacked at [[Weathertop]].
| date=[[30 September]]-[[6 October]] {{TA|3018|n}}
| location=[[Crickhollow]], [[Bree]], and [[Weathertop]]
| previous=Strider (chapter)
| next=Flight to the Ford
}}

'''A Knife in the Dark''' is the eleventh chapter of the first book in ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.

In this chapter, [[Fredegar Bolger|Fatty Bolger]] is attacked by [[Black Riders]] at [[Crickhollow]], but the [[Bucklanders]] scare them away. The Black Riders attack the [[Prancing Pony]], but cannot find the [[Hobbits]]. The Hobbits lose their ponies, but purchase [[Bill the Pony]] to replace them. They make their way to [[Weathertop]] together with [[Strider]], where Black Riders attack them in force. [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] is stabbed with a [[Morgul-knife]].

==Summary==

Back at [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]]'s new "home" in [[Crickhollow]], [[Fredegar Bolger|Fatty Bolger]] had been having an uneasy sensation all day. That night, he see dark shadows in the trees, and his gate opens and closes of its own accord. Three dark figures arrive at the house, surrounding it on all sides. One figure demands he open the door, and then all three break inside. Suddenly, a horn blows in the distance.

{{quote|AWAKE! FEAR! FIRE! FOES! AWAKE!|The [[Horn-call of Buckland]]}}

Fatty had escaped the house before the [[Black Riders]] broke in, and ran a whole mile to call for help. The [[Bucklanders]], fearing an invasion from the [[Old Forest]], sounded the alarm [[Fell Winter (Third Age)|for the first time in a hundred years]]. The Black Riders flee Crickhollow, and we are told that they now realize [[The One Ring]] has already left the area.

Back in [[Bree]], [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] has trouble sleeping. He dreams again of a wind in the east, and the gallop of hooves. He wakes up just before dawn, hearing a horn blowing far off in the distance.

[[Strider]] leads the Hobbits to their rooms, where they discover that the doors have been bashed in and their beds have been slashed and ransacked. They wake [[Barliman Butterbur]], who is appalled at this turn of events. Frodo, [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]], [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] and [[Pippin Took|Pippin]] prepare to leave with Strider as soon as possible, skipping breakfast. Barliman goes to fetch their ponies, but discovers that the stable doors had been opened and the ponies are gone. Strider reassures them that ponies would not have sped up their journey by much, on the roads he intends to take.

Frodo inquires whether more ponies could be purchased in the village. Barliman replies that the chances are low, but sends his assistants out to look anyway. Strider laments that they will no longer be able to leave Bree unnoticed, but the Hobbits are glad to have a chance to eat breakfast while they wait. The wait lasts three hours.

Barliman's assistant [[Bob]] finally returns with bad news: He could find only [[Bill the Pony|one pony for sale]], at a very steep price, belonging to [[Bill Ferny]].

{{quote|A poor old half-starved creature it is, but he won't part with it for less than thrice its worth, seeing how you're placed, not if I knows Bill Ferny.|[[Bob]]}}

Frodo worries that the pony would bolt right back to Bill Ferny with all their belonging. Strider is confident that no animal would want to return to Bill Ferny. Bill's price is 12 silver pennies, which Barliman Butterbur offers to pay out of his own pocket, giving Merry another 18 silvers for his lost ponies. We're told that Merry's lost ponies were later found by [[Tom Bombadil]], one having been stolen and the others having wandered across [[Bree-land]]. Tom collected them and returned them to Barliman, who ultimately benefited from his generosity.

The other guests at the inn are outraged to find that some of their animals had also escaped. However, they soon discover that the southerner who had conferred with Bill Ferny has also disappeared, and the blame quickly falls on him. When Barliman chastises the southerners for bringing a thief with them, it turns out that none of them had actually arrived with him nor knew who he was.

Due to the events and commotion of the previous night, many people come to see the Hobbits leave Bree. Strider decides to lead the Hobbits out the main road, as leaving into the wilderness would only arouse more suspicion. Frodo gives a heartfelt farewell to Barliman Butterbur and his loyal assistants.

The Hobbits make their way out of Bree. In the window of the last house on the road, Frodo spots the southerner peeking out at them. Outside the house is Bill Ferny, who sneers at Strider, calling him "Longshanks". He warns the Hobbits not to trust Strider. Strider does not reply, but Sam throws an apple he'd been eating at Ferny's face.

Several people follow the Hobbits a short way out of the village, but quickly turn back. The party passes the Hobbit village of [[Staddle]], and shortly after that Strider takes them off the road and into the country. Pippin complains about short cuts, citing the troubles they'd caused the Hobbits previously. Strider reassures him:

{{quote|Ah, but you had not got me with you then. My cuts, short or long, don't go wrong.|[[Strider]]}}

At first, Strider leads the Hobbits on a winding path to throw off any pursuit. The next day, he straightens their course eastward, and soon they reach the [[Midgewater Marshes]]. Midges begin tormenting them as they make their way slowly across the marsh. The incessant bites and the sound of [[Neekerbreekers|unknown bog-creatures]] keeps them up at night.

On the night of [[3 October]], Frodo wakes up to see flashes of light far away in the east. Strider has no idea what it is, describing it only as "lightning that leaps up from the hill-tops". He maintains a vigil over the camp that whole night.

On [[4 October]], the party leaves the Marshes and spots in the distance a strange, conical hill with a flat top. Strider calls it [[Weathertop]] - the halfway point between Bree and [[Rivendell]]. Strider considers heading straight towards it, though he's unsure what they might find there. Frodo says he assumed that Gandalf would be waiting for them there, but Strider says that this is unlikely. He points out that the chance of both Gandalf and the party reaching Weathertop at the same time is slim; and also that the [[Black Riders]] will likely make their way to the hill if they can't find the Hobbits elsewhere. He warns that some birds may have been employed as their spies. He concludes that the safest course would be to approach the hill from an unexpected direction.

On the morning of [[5 October]], the Hobbits have a relatively meager breakfast. Pippin notices that Frodo seems "twice the Hobbit that he had been". Frodo, however, feels much thinner, and worries that if he continues thinning he might "turn into a wraith". Strider is very disturbed by this, and urgently commands him not to speak of such things.

That night, the party reaches the hills north of Weathertop. On the morning of [[6 October]] they turn south, following a path leading down to Weathertop that seems to have been specially designed to keep travelers hidden from view. The boulders lining the path remind Merry of the Standing Stones in the [[Barrow-downs]]. This prompts Strider to explain the history of Weathertop. He says that the hill was once a magnificent watch-tower built by [[Men of the West]] as part of their defensive lines against [[Angmar]]. He names the tower "Amon Sûl", and says that it was almost completely destroyed. He demonstrates an impressive knowledge of ancient lore, reporting that [[Elendil]] was said to have stood there watching for the coming of [[Gil-Galad]] in the days of the [[Last Alliance]].

Merry asks who Gil-Galad was. Strider seems to be lost in thought about this, but suddenly Sam begins singing [[The Fall of Gil-galad|part of a song about Gil-Galad]], amazing everyone. Sam says he learned the song from [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]], who had also taught him how to read. Sam claims that Bilbo wrote the song himself. Strider corrects him, saying that the song was originally written in an ancient tongue, which Bilbo must have translated; he is pleasantly surprised. Sam adds that he wouldn't learn the rest of the song because it was about going to [[Mordor]]. Pippin hopes aloud that they won't have to go to Mordor. Strider commands him not to speak that name out loud again.

The party finally reaches Weathertop, and locates a sheltered dell on its western side. Sam and Pippin remain there with the pony, while the others make their way to the top. As Strider said earlier, the watch-tower is burnt and ruined, and there is no sign of Gandalf. Strider says that Gandalf rides very fast, and might have reached Weathertop before they did. Indeed, Strider soon finds an unusual rock bearing small scratches, which he interprets as the [[Angerthas]] rune for "G" followed by the number 3 - indicating that Gandalf had been there on 3 October. Since Gandalf left only a few cryptic marks, Strider concludes that he must have been in quite a hurry to leave the tower, and worried that someone sinister might find the message.

Strider observes fresh burn marks upon the stones, and speculates that Gandalf must have fought something in the tower on 3 October - explaining the lights they had observed in the east that night. He says the party will have to make its way to Rivendell without Gandalf. Merry asks how far Rivendell is. Strider is unsure; he estimates that it would have taken him about 12 days to reach the [[Ford of Bruinen]] by road, but since the party will likely have to stay off the road, it might take at least a fortnight.

Frodo feels homesick as he looks at the road headed back west from the tower. Suddenly, he notices two black specks on the road, moving westward, and three other black specks moving eastward to meet them. He tells Strider, who drops quickly to the ground, pulling Frodo with him. They creep up to the edge of the hill to observes the specks as the evening falls.

{{quote|The enemy is here!|[[Strider]]}}

Strider, Frodo and Merry return to the dell. Meanwhile, Sam and Pippin have explored the area, and found signs of a recent campsite next to a spring, with fresh boot marks and bundles of firewood. Strider examines these, concluding that Rangers had been there a few days earlier and left that firewood, though the tracks had mostly been ruined by Sam and Pippin. He also notices many heavy bootprints, which disturb him.

Sam suggests leaving Weathertop as soon as possible. Strider considers this, but concludes that there is nowhere better to go, especially at night when they will surely be spotted leaving. At the Hobbits' inquiries, he explains that the Black Riders can "see" vague shapes, except in the bright light of the sun; can smell the blood of living creatures; and can feel them in their vicinity as keenly as the Hobbits had felt unease at the presence of the Riders. He rues his mistake of wandering carelessly on the hill-top. Finally, he adds that [[The One Ring]] attracts the Riders. Frodo seems to lose hope of ever escaping the Riders.

{{quote|There is still hope. You are not alone. Let us take this wood that is set ready for the fire as a sign. There is little shelter or defence here, but fire shall serve for both. Sauron can put fire to his evil use, as he can all things, but these Riders do not love it, and fear those who wield it. Fire is our friend in the wilderness.|[[Strider]]}}

The party sets up a campfire deep in the dell, and sits down to eat. Frodo is worried that their food stores won't last until Rivendell, but Strider reassures him that food can be gathered from the wild. He bids the Hobbits think of the tables at [[Elrond]]'s house.

As the night darkens, Strider begins telling the Hobbits tales of times long ago. They wonder how old Strider really is. They ask him again about Gil-Galad, and he replies that Frodo might actually know some of the story. Frodo confirms that he had heard it from Gandalf, and begins telling the tale. Strider quickly stops him, saying that he should not speak of it while servants of the Enemy are nearby, bidding the Hobbits wait until they reach Rivendell.

Instead, Strider tells the Hobbits the tale of [[Tinúviel]], though he claims that only Elrond now remembers the tale properly. After a long pause, he sings the [[Song of Beren and Lúthien]]. After completing the song's many verses, he explains the tale in plain words, telling of the meeting between the [[Men|mortal man]] [[Beren]] and the [[Elf|elvish princess]] [[Lúthien]] during the [[First Age]]; the war against the [[Great Enemy]]; and the retrieval of one of the stolen [[Silmarils]]. He tells of how Beren died at the hands of the [[Carcharoth|Wolf of Angband]], and how Lúthien gave up her immortality in order to join him in the afterlife. Their union, Strider adds, gave birth to a [[Half-elven]] lineage from which Elrond is descended, as well as [[Eärendil]] who sired the kings of [[Númenor]].

Strider seems greatly affected by his own story. As he finishes, the moon rises behind him, and the Hobbits spot a small, dark shape at the top of the hill. They suddenly feel very uneasy. Sam and Merry scout the edge of the dell, but soon return and report that they suddenly felt very afraid and that Merry spotted two or three dark shapes moving towards them. The party prepares for a fight, as Strider commands them to pick up longer sticks from the fire.

As the party huddles around the fire, facing outwards, dark shapes begin appearing around the lip of the dell. Soon, the party is surrounded by four tall black figures, seeming darker than the darkness behind them. Pippin and Merry cower on the ground in terror, but Sam stays close to Frodo. Frodo suddenly feels a powerful temptation to put on the Ring. Despite remembering every reason not to, he puts the Ring on his finger.

Now under the Ring's effect, Frodo can see the Black Riders in their true form: five tall figures with white faces, merciless eyes, and grey hair, wearing long robes and silver helmets, and wielding swords. Three Riders rush towards him, and he pulls out his sword, which seems to burn bright red. Though two stop in their tracks at this sight, one continues to advance: a taller figure wearing a crown, holding a long-sword and a knife.

Frodo throws himself on the ground, crying "O Elbereth! Gilthoniel!", and swinging his sword at the crowned figure's feet. The figure shrieks in pain, and then stabs Frodo in the left shoulder.

Before passing out in pain, Frodo glimpses Strider leaping at the figure with flaming brands of wood in each hand. Frodo drops his sword, grabs the Ring, and pulls it off his finger, holding it very tightly.

[[Category:The Fellowship of the Ring chapters|Knife in the Dark]]
[[fi:Veitsi yössä (TSH)]]

User talk:Headrock

2023-07-27T20:58:12Z

Headrock: /* Chapter Summaries */ Reply

'''{{PAGENAME}}, welcome!'''

Hello and [[Tolkien Gateway:Welcome|welcome]] to '''[[Tolkien Gateway]]'''. I hope you like the place and choose to join our work. Here are a few good links for newcomers:
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I hope you enjoy editing here and we look forward to your future edits. By the way, you can sign your name on Talk and vote pages using three tildes, like this: ~<nowiki>~~</nowiki>. Four tildes (~~<nowiki>~~</nowiki>) produces your name and the current date. If you have any questions, see the [[Help:Contents|help pages]], add a question to the [[Forums:Council|Council forums]] or ask me on [[User talk:Hyarion|my talk page]]. Keep up the great work! — [[User:Hyarion|Hyarion]]

== Chapter Summaries ==

Hello [[User:Headrock|Headrock]],

Great work on updating the chapter summaries - you have managed to do a lot in a small amount of time! Thanks for contributing.

I see from your edit notes that you are conscious about the length of the summaries already but I do think they need to be trimmed down somehow. My personal feedback would be to not include so many quotes, to focus more on just the key events and also streamline your exposition.

For example:

{{blockquote|When Sam sees the inn, he becomes suspicious and recommends seeking out a Hobbit family to stay with. Frodo reminds him that Tom Bombadil had recommended the inn and spoke well of its proprietor, Barliman Butterbur. They hear cheerful songs and laughter from inside, which calms them down a little. The Hobbits take their ponies into the courtyard, where they encounter Barliman, a short, fat man with a reddish face. After introductions, Barliman seems to recall something related to four Hobbits, but can't remember what it was. He apologizes that the inn is quite busy, indicating that it is an unusual situation. Fortunately, the inn has a room available that is specifically designed for Hobbits. He calls his helpers to take care of the ponies, and invites the Hobbits to their room.}}

Could potentially be trimmed down to:

{{blockquote|The hobbits arrive at The Prancing Pony inn and meet its proprietor, Barliman Butterbur. He finds them a room suitable for hobbits and has their ponies taken to his stables.}}

<s>In addition to this, one thing you will need to amend is that these articles should be written from an "in-universe" perspective, so we should not be mentioning a narrator and everything should be written in past tense. You can check out the [[Tolkien_Gateway:Manual_of_Style|Manual of Style]] for all guidelines.</s> ''- incorrect. See update below.''

Finally please feel free to join the TG [http://discord.gg/ktX6fhU9FY Discord Server] where you can seek further feedback from others more knowledgeable than I.

Thank you and happy editing! [[User:JR Snow|JR Snow]] ([[User talk:JR Snow|talk]]) 12:10, 25 July 2023 (UTC)

:Yeah, I'm always too worried to leave out something which might actually be important. I do leave out Tolkien's many descriptions almost entirely, since such details are not really part of the narrative, and are sufficiently explained in the articles for each subject. I do, however, try to keep most character actions inside, as they can often explain or have a bearing on later occurrences in the same chapter or even later in the book. In the case of your example, you're right that it's probably not necessary to specifically "set up" the unease about the inn, since it doesn't "pay off" on its own, and other parts of the narrative reinforce it anyway. However, it is definitely necessary to mention that Butterbur can't remember what he was told about four Hobbits, since this comes up later in both this chapter and the following one. Similarly, the reminder that Tom Bombadil vouched for Butterbur should probably be left in, to reduce dependence on reading previous articles (the same reason why I often mention which Hobbits are present, rather than just saying "the [[Hobbits]]").
:Also, with only about 3 or 4 quotes per chapter, I don't think they're really that excessive; I tend only to quote songs (if their contents have a direct bearing on events) and things that would be very clunky to explain with words. I'll try to tighten it up if I can, and you're welcome to catch me out on this if you still think they're excessive.
:'''''However,''''' I completely disagree that ''all'' exposition must be cut, for the same reason that I completely disagree with the final part of your message here: These are explicitly '''''not''''' in-universe articles! There is no such concept within the universe of Middle-earth called "A Short Cut to Mushrooms", for example; it is not a proper noun within the universe, and cannot be treated as such. The concept only exists in our world. These chapter articles are entirely ex-universal, reporting on the contents of a ''chapter'' in the ''novel'' "The Lord of the Rings". As such, not only should they always be in the present tense, but can freely refer to narration. ''They discuss a narrative.''
:If that contradicts the site's style-guide, then either the style-guide needs to make an exception or the chapter articles must be removed entirely. You'll note, for example, that the article [[The Fellowship of the Ring]] also - correctly - summarizes the contents of the book in the present tense. It is not a report of events occurring within a certain timeframe of the universe, but a report on the things written within a discrete portion of a real-world novel.
:In fact, that was the reason I started writing these in the first place. I only ended up adding so much information to each article because so much happened to be missing from the original summaries; the original motivation was to repair the tense alone.
:Since a ''narrative'' is what's being discussed, the decision to leave in things like set-up and payoff are in fact relevant, since they are part of the structure of the narrative. We're not just telling about the dry events (that is what articles about the concepts themselves should do), but about the contents of each chapter. This could actually even justify the addition of Tolkien's descriptions, but they are the least important and would bloat the articles unnecessarily, which is why I always leave them out.
:--[[User:Headrock|Headrock]] ([[User talk:Headrock|talk]]) 01:24, 26 July 2023 (UTC)
::I agree in that as far as I'm aware, book and chapter articles are ex-universe. [[User:Sage|Sage]] ([[User talk:Sage|talk]]) 03:37, 26 July 2023 (UTC)
::Thanks for taking the feedback - I do not want you to think that the work you have done is anything but worthwhile. The expansion of these summaries were sorely needed!
::I hope I am not stepping on your toes by offering suggestions on how to shorten them and I certainly would not propose removing ''all'' exposition. However, as I said earlier it is perhaps possible to ''"streamline"'' the exposition; but I will not edit your work as you are clearly a capable writer.
::My personal preference is shorter summaries with quotes only used where, as you say, they add something you can't convey with your own words. Others may have a different opinion.
::Upon reading your comments (and others on Discord) regarding in-or-ex-universe I think you (and @[[User:Sage|Sage]]) are right about this and I am wrong, although there does seem to be some inconsistency within TG on how we are writing summaries / synopses the Wikipedia standard is defined as requiring ''"[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Writing_better_articles#Tense| historical present tense]"'' (thanks @[[User:Mord|Mord]] for finding that). [[User:JR Snow|JR Snow]] ([[User talk:JR Snow|talk]]) 13:37, 26 July 2023 (UTC)
:::You're not stepping on my toes at all. This is a collaboration project and I would be wrong not to expect - and welcome - criticism. In fact, I wouldn't mind if you went ahead and just ''made'' changes wherever you thought you were necessary. The only thing I ask is you keep in mind ''why'' I kept things in; but that doesn't mean they actually ''have'' to be left in. That's basically the same thing I'm doing to Tolkien, come to think of it!
:::<hr>
:::On the topic of summaries and synopses, each serves a different purpose and has a place in ''different types of articles''; it can definitely be tricky to decide which one is best in each case. Going back to [[The Fellowship of the Ring]], it offers really short synopses that barely explain what's in each book - and that's perfectly fine for that article. Otherwise it would be a gigantic wall of text. However the article pages - if they are to exist at all - would contain almost no other information if the long-form summaries were removed, leaving "all the room in the world" for larger summaries, so to speak. It's fine that there's no consistency there.
:::As you can see, what I went for is more of a "recapitulation" than a synopsis. This is an informed decision, on the basis of two assumptions:
:::1) Readers will rarely (if ever) reach a specific chapter article looking for a synopsis; they'll have questions about particular things happening at that particular point in the book, and a synopsis by definition does not answer any but the most basic questions. Thus, you have to make sure to answer a wider variety of question they might have.
:::2) Readers will ''want'' to be drawn from these articles deeper into the Wiki, or at least should be encouraged to. A recapitulation lends itself greatly to putting in links to other concepts, since it tries to hit every single "linkable" concept brought up in each chapter -- skipping ''none'', if at all possible.
:::For example, if we go back to "[[A Short Cut to Mushrooms]]", the reader might come looking for this article with all sorts of questions that you have to anticipate in advance. Some of them are obvious ("What's the name of that farmer, again?"), but others might be more obscure ("What is the name of that song they sing on the way to the farm?", or "Did Maggot meet a Black Rider before the Hobbits got there? What was Maggot's reaction?"). A synopsis answers only the first question, while a recapitulation should also answer the others, preferably with a handy link straight to more information. The more information you cut out of it, the more you force the reader to wrack their brains on locating the more esoteric stuff they might be looking for - or go open the book themselves (thus defeating the purpose of the Wiki).
:::In fact, I've even happened to add some information that I couldn't find anywhere else on the Wiki (such as the fact that the Standing Stones next to the Barrow-wight's barrow seemed to disappear after the Hobbits were rescued). That sort of information might not be important to mention in any other article, but it is perfect to mention as part of the narrative.
:::It's definitely a balancing act, and I would ''not'' be averse to any discussion about what should and shouldn't be left in!
:::--[[User:Headrock|Headrock]] ([[User talk:Headrock|talk]]) 22:18, 26 July 2023 (UTC)
::::It is enjoyable to rediscover some strange details, that are easy to forget, especially if they don't fit well with the general impression we have about Middle-earth. Enigmas, like the disappearing stones, are one of this. Everyone remembers that Gandalf fell in Moria and fought the Balrog, but who knows/remembers that during this he met the "unnamed creatures"? I think we mustn't ignore or neglect those underdeveloped details because they are brush strokes that give different depth to the Legendarium. [[User:Sage|Sage]] ([[User talk:Sage|talk]]) 15:48, 27 July 2023 (UTC)
:::::LOL! I don't remember those!
:::::--[[User:Headrock|Headrock]] ([[User talk:Headrock|talk]]) 20:58, 27 July 2023 (UTC)

Strider (chapter)

2023-07-27T14:18:04Z

Headrock: Minor grammar changes.

{{disambig-more|Strider|[[Strider (disambiguation)]]}}
{{chapter
| image=Matt Stewart - Strider.jpg
| title=Strider
| book=The Fellowship of the Ring
| number=10
| event=[[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] meets [[Strider (Aragorn)|Strider]].
| date=[[29 September]] {{TA|3018|n}}
| location=[[The Prancing Pony]]
| previous=At the Sign of the Prancing Pony
| next=A Knife in the Dark
}}

'''Strider''' is the tenth chapter of the first book in ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.

In this chapter, [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] has a private conversation with [[Strider]], and receives [[Gandalf]]'s letter from [[Barliman Butterbur]]. Strider promises to protect the Hobbits. [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] alerts the others that he had spotted a [[Black Rider]] in [[Bree]].

==Summary==

[[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]], [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]] and [[Peregrin Took|Pippin]] return to the [[Prancing Pony]]'s parlour to find [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] gone. They kindle the fire, only to discover that [[Strider]] had surreptitiously entered the room with them.

Strider offers Frodo information and advice. In return, he asks that the Hobbits allow him to accompany them until such time that he decides to leave. Frodo asks to know more about Strider before he makes his decision. Strider is pleased with the demand, finding it very prudent.

Strider checks the door to make sure no one is listening in. He reveals that he had seen the Hobbits with [[Tom Bombadil]], and observed them entering [[Bree]]. He'd also heard Frodo warning the others to call him "Underhill" instead of "Baggins", which piqued Strider's curiosity since he had been specifically waiting for a "Frodo Baggins" coming from [[The Shire]]. Frodo attempts to make excuses, but Strider seems to know a great deal about Frodo's "secret", claiming that he has a strong interest in ensuring that the secret doesn't get out. Strider adds that he had spotted two [[Black Riders]] passing through Bree earlier.

Frodo laments having left the Hobbits' room at all that evening, and casts aspersions on [[Barliman Butterbur]] for convincing him to go to the common-room. Strider vouches for Barliman's credibility, and acknowledges that he, himself, must look very suspicious as well.

Strider again chides Frodo for putting on [[The One Ring]] earlier, hinting that it would draw more Black Riders to Bree. He warns Frodo about [[Bill Ferny]], the local who'd slipped out of the common-room together with the suspicious southern visitor after Frodo's accident with the Ring.

{{quote|He would sell anything to anybody; or make mischief for amusement.|[[Strider]] on [[Bill Ferny]]}}

Strider explains that he would be a great asset for navigating out of Bree, since the Hobbits would have to avoid the road at all costs. Sam advises against this, warning that Strider may be planning to lead the Hobbits into a trap. Frodo considers this and finally rejects Strider's offer, but presses Strider to reveal more about himself. Strider once again seems pleased that Frodo is erring on the side of caution.

The conversation is cut short when Barliman Butterbur enters, and Strider retreats into the shadows. Barliman says that he now remembers what he had previously forgotten: He was supposed to expect a hobbit named "Baggins" going under the pseudonym "Underhill". He gives a description of Frodo as told to him by [[Gandalf]], whom he claims is his friend. Butterbur apologizes deeply, saying that Gandalf had instructed him to send a letter to [[Hobbiton]], which he forgot to do; only the Hobbits' arrival that night suddenly jogged his memory. He adds that Gandalf asked him to assist "Baggins" if he ever turned up, and to ask no questions of him.

Barliman mentions that Frodo may be in trouble, on account of dark men asking questions about him around Bree. He says that two of these dark men arrived the previous Monday and terrified his assistant. Butterbur turned them away, but they continued snooping around [[Bree-land]] for answers.

Barliman warns Frodo that Strider has also been asking questions about him. Strider steps out of the shadows, alarming Butterbur, who still insists that Frodo shouldn't trust the [[Ranger]]. Barliman implores Frodo to stay in Bree, but Strider advises strongly against this. He reveals that the Black Riders come from a land called "[[Mordor]]", a name which Butterbur recognizes with great alarm.

Strider asks Barliman to forget the name "Baggins". Barliman agrees, but warns that the rumor will get out quickly either way. He promises that he and his assistants will guard the inn that night, and will not let any Black Riders in.

After Barliman leaves, Frodo opens the letter from Gandalf and reads it to himself. In the letter, Gandalf instructs Frodo to leave The Shire before July {{TA|3018}}, and make for [[Rivendell]]. He asks Frodo to leave a message for him with Barliman Butterbur in case they haven't regrouped first. He vouches for both Barliman and for Strider; however he bids Frodo make sure that he encounters the ''real'' Strider, whose true name is Aragorn, adding a riddle that might help:

{{quote|All that is gold does not glitter,    Not all those who wander are lost; The old that is strong does not wither,    Deep roots are not reached by the frost. From the ashes a fire shall be woken,    A light from the shadows shall spring; Renewed shall be blade that was broken,    The crownless again shall be king.|The [[Riddle of Strider]]}}

The letter is signed with Gandalf's [[Angerthas]] rune for "G".

Frodo passes the letter to Sam and Pippin. He chides Strider about not revealing that he was Gandalf's friend to begin with. Strider answers that Frodo wouldn't have believed him. He also says he wanted to make sure Frodo was who he claimed to be, first. Finally he confides that he'd secretly hoped Frodo would trust him even without knowing he was Gandalf's friend.

Sam is still suspicious of Strider, suggesting he could've killed the real one and taken his place. Strider replies that if he'd wanted to take The One Ring at all, he could've done so immediately. With that, he springs to his feet and puts a hand on the hilt of his sword, appearing suddenly as a great danger to the Hobbits. However he quickly relaxes, revealing his full name as Aragorn son of [[Arathorn]], and pledging his life to Frodo's protection.

Finally, Frodo accepts Strider's offer to serve as their guide.

{{quote|You have frightened me several times tonight, but never in the way that servants of the Enemy would, or so I imagine. I think one of his spies would — well, seem fairer and feel fouler, if you understand.|[[Frodo Baggins]] to [[Aragorn]]}}

This prompts Strider to quote the [[Riddle of Strider]], which Frodo recognizes from the letter. Strider says that the riddle is connected to his real name. He pulls out his sword, showing that it is indeed broken. He claims it will soon be time to reforge the sword, as the Riddle foretells.

Strider says he will lead the Hobbits to [[Weathertop]], halfway between Bree and Rivendell. When Frodo asks about Gandalf's whereabouts, Strider replies that he does not know. He tells of how he'd come with Gandalf to the area in the previous spring, and last seen him on [[1 May]], {{TA|3018}}, at the [[Sarn Ford]]. At the time, Gandalf was still expecting Frodo to leave The Shire in September. Thinking that Frodo was safe with Gandalf, Strider went off to take care of another errand. Strider later met [[Gildor Inglorion]], who told him that Frodo had left the Shire. Frodo worries that Gandalf might have been hurt by the Black Riders. Strider reassures him that Gandalf is much more powerful than the Hobbits know him to be.

Pippin is worried about Merry's absence. Just then, Merry returns together with Barliman's assistant [[Nob]]. He warns the others that he had seen a Black Rider here in Bree. Feeling an unexplained urge, he tried following it as it scampered away, but lost it near the south gate. He heard fell voices whispering in the dark, and turned quickly to run back to the inn, but was suddenly knocked out from behind. Nob then explains that he was sent out by Barliman to scout the area, and found Merry with two dark figures looming over him. Nob shouted at the figures, but they disappeared before he could identify them. Nob adds that the event occurred very near Bill Ferny's house.

Strider speculates that Merry had been struck with the "Black Breath", confirming that the Riders are indeed here, and that Bill Ferny and the southerner must have tipped them off. He also suspects [[Harry Goatleaf|Harry the gatekeeper]]'s involvement. He doesn't believe the Riders would attack the inn just yet, and would instead gather their forces first, preferring to attack once the Hobbits leave Bree.

Strider advises the Hobbits not to return to their rooms. Instead, Nob ruffles up their clothes and places them in the Hobbits' beds, under the blankets, to simulate their sleeping bodies. Nob returns to his guard duties while Strider and the Hobbits bar themselves inside the parlour, shuttering the windows. They set up mattresses around the hearth and go to sleep, with Strider propped up in a chair against the door.

==External links==
*[http://www.zarkanya.net/Tolkien/BreeEvents.htm Rough time-line of events in Bree, September 29, SR 1418] by Alcuin
{{title}}
[[Category:The Fellowship of the Ring chapters]]
[[fi:Konkari (TSH)]]

Strider (chapter)

2023-07-27T01:56:53Z

Headrock: /* Summary */

{{disambig-more|Strider|[[Strider (disambiguation)]]}}
{{chapter
| image=Matt Stewart - Strider.jpg
| title=Strider
| book=The Fellowship of the Ring
| number=10
| event=[[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] meets [[Strider (Aragorn)|Strider]].
| date=[[29 September]] {{TA|3018|n}}
| location=[[The Prancing Pony]]
| previous=At the Sign of the Prancing Pony
| next=A Knife in the Dark
}}

'''Strider''' is the tenth chapter of the first book in ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.

In this chapter, [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] has a private conversation with [[Strider]], and receives [[Gandalf]]'s letter from [[Barliman Butterbur]]. Strider promises to protect the Hobbits. [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] alerts the others that he had spotted a [[Black Rider]] in [[Bree]].

==Summary==

[[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]], [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]] and [[Peregrin Took|Pippin]] return to the [[Prancing Pony]]'s parlour to find [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] gone. They kindle the fire, only to discover that [[Strider]] had surreptitiously entered the room with them.

Strider offers Frodo information and advice. In return, he asks that the Hobbits allow him to accompany them until such time as he decides to leave. Frodo asks to know more about Strider before he decides. Strider is pleased with the demand, finding it very prudent.

Strider checks the door to make sure no one is listening in. He reveals that he had seen the Hobbits with [[Tom Bombadil]], and observed them entering [[Bree]]. He'd also heard Frodo warning the others to call him "Underhill" instead of "Baggins", which piqued Strider's curiosity since he had been specifically waiting for a "Frodo Baggins" coming from [[The Shire]]. Frodo attempts to make excuses, but Strider seems to know a great deal about Frodo's "secret", claiming that he has a strong interest in ensuring that the secret doesn't get out. Strider adds that he had spotted two [[Black Riders]] passing through Bree earlier.

Frodo laments having left the Hobbits' room at all that evening, and casts aspersions on [[Barliman Butterbur]] for convincing him to go to the common-room. Strider vouches for Barliman's credibility, and acknowledges that he, himself, looks very suspicious as well.

Strider again chides Frodo for putting on [[The One Ring]] earlier, hinting that it would draw more Black Riders to Bree. He warns Frodo about [[Bill Ferny]], the local who'd slipped out of the common-room together with the southern visitor after Frodo's "accident" with the Ring.

{{quote|He would sell anything to anybody; or make mischief for amusement.|[[Strider]] on [[Bill Ferny]]}}

Strider explains that he would be a great asset for navigating out of Bree, since the Hobbits would have to avoid the road at all costs. Sam advises against this, warning that Strider may be planning to lead the Hobbits into a trap. Frodo considers this and finally rejects Strider's offer, but presses Strider to reveal more about himself. Strider once again seems pleased that Frodo will err on the side of caution.

The conversation is cut short when Barliman Butterbur enters, and Strider retreats into the shadows. Barliman says that he now remembers what he had previously forgotten: He was supposed to expect a hobbit named "Baggins" going under the pseudonym "Underhill". He gives a description of Frodo as told to him by [[Gandalf]], whom he claims is his friend. Butterbur apologizes deeply, saying that Gandalf had instructed him to send a letter to [[Hobbiton]], which he had forgotten to do; only the Hobbits' arrival that night suddenly jogged his memory. He adds that Gandalf asked him to assist "Baggins" if he ever turned up, and to ask no questions of him.

Barliman mentions that Frodo may be in trouble, on account of dark men asking questions about him around Bree. He says that two of these dark men arrived the previous Monday and terrified his assistant. Butterbur turned them away, but they continued snooping around [[Bree-land]] for answers.

Barliman warns Frodo that Strider has also been asking questions about him. Strider steps out of the shadows, alarming Butterbur, who still insists that Frodo shouldn't trust the [[Ranger]]. Barliman implores Frodo to stay in Bree, but Strider advises strongly against this. He reveals that the Black Riders come from a land called "[[Mordor]]", a name which Butterbur recognizes with great alarm.

Strider asks Barliman to forget the name "Baggins". Barliman agrees, but warns that the rumor will get out quickly either way. He promises that he and his assistants will guard the inn that night, and will not let any Black Riders in.

After Barliman leaves, Frodo opens the letter from Gandalf and reads it to himself. In the letter, Gandalf instructs Frodo to leave The Shire before July {{TA|3018}}, and make for [[Rivendell]]. He asks Frodo to leave a message for him with Barliman Butterbur in case they haven't regrouped first. He vouches for both Barliman and for Strider; however he bids Frodo make sure that he encounters the ''real'' Strider, whose true name is Aragorn, adding a riddle that might help:

{{quote|All that is gold does not glitter,    Not all those who wander are lost; The old that is strong does not wither,    Deep roots are not reached by the frost. From the ashes a fire shall be woken,    A light from the shadows shall spring; Renewed shall be blade that was broken,    The crownless again shall be king.|The [[Riddle of Strider]]}}

The letter is signed with Gandalf's [[Angerthas]] rune for "G".

Frodo passes the letter to Sam and Pippin. He chides Strider about not revealing that he was Gandalf's friend to begin with. Strider answers that Frodo wouldn't have believed him. He also says he wanted to make sure Frodo was who he claimed to be, first. Finally he confides that he'd secretly hoped Frodo would trust him even without knowing he was Gandalf's friend.

Sam is still suspicious of Strider, suggesting he could've killed the real one and taken his place. Strider replies that if he'd wanted to take The One Ring at all, he could've done so immediately. With that, he springs to his feet and puts a hand on the hilt of his sword, appearing suddenly as a great danger to the Hobbits. However he quickly relaxes, revealing his full name as Aragorn son of [[Arathorn]], and pledging his life to Frodo's protection.

Finally, Frodo accepts Strider's offer to serve as their guide.

{{quote|You have frightened me several times tonight, but never in the way that servants of the Enemy would, or so I imagine. I think one of his spies would — well, seem fairer and feel fouler, if you understand.|[[Frodo Baggins]] to [[Aragorn]]}}

This prompts Strider to quote the [[Riddle of Strider]], which Frodo recognizes from the letter. Strider says that the riddle is connected to his real name. He pulls out his sword, showing that it is indeed broken. He claims it will soon be time to reforge the sword, as the Riddle foretells.

Strider says he will lead the Hobbits to [[Weathertop]], halfway between Bree and Rivendell. When Frodo asks about Gandalf's whereabouts, Strider replies that he does not know. He tells of how he'd come with Gandalf to the area in the previous spring, and last seen him on [[1 May]], {{TA|3018}}, at the [[Sarn Ford]]. At the time, Gandalf was still expecting Frodo to leave The Shire in September. Thinking that Frodo was safe with Gandalf, Strider went off to take care of another errand. Strider later met [[Gildor Inglorion]], who told him that Frodo had left the Shire. Frodo worries that Gandalf might have been hurt by the Black Riders. Strider reassures him that Gandalf is much more powerful than the Hobbits know him to be.

Pippin is worried about Merry's absence. Just then, Merry returns together with Barliman's assistant [[Nob]]. He warns the others that he had seen a Black Rider here in Bree. Feeling an unexplained urge, he tried following it as it scampered away, but lost it near the south gate. He heard fell voices whispering in the dark, and turned quickly to run back to the inn, but was suddenly knocked out from behind. Nob then explains that he was sent out by Barliman to scout the area, and found Merry with two dark figures looming over him. Nob shouted at the figures, but they disappeared before he could identify them. Nob adds that the event occurred very near Bill Ferny's house.

Strider speculates that Merry had been struck with the "Black Breath", confirming that the Riders are indeed here, and that Bill Ferny and the southerner must have tipped them off. He also suspects [[Harry Goatleaf|Harry the gatekeeper]]'s involvement. He doesn't believe the Riders would attack the inn just yet, and would instead gather their forces first, preferring to attack once the Hobbits leave Bree.

Strider advises the Hobbits not to return to their rooms. Instead, Nob ruffles up their clothes and places them in the Hobbits' beds, under the blankets, to simulate their sleeping bodies. Nob returns to his guard duties while Strider and the Hobbits bar themselves inside the parlour, shuttering the windows. They set up mattresses around the hearth and go to sleep, with Strider propped up in a chair against the door.

==External links==
*[http://www.zarkanya.net/Tolkien/BreeEvents.htm Rough time-line of events in Bree, September 29, SR 1418] by Alcuin
{{title}}
[[Category:The Fellowship of the Ring chapters]]
[[fi:Konkari (TSH)]]

Strider (chapter)

2023-07-27T01:41:25Z

Headrock:

{{disambig-more|Strider|[[Strider (disambiguation)]]}}
{{chapter
| image=Matt Stewart - Strider.jpg
| title=Strider
| book=The Fellowship of the Ring
| number=10
| event=[[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] meets [[Strider (Aragorn)|Strider]].
| date=[[29 September]] {{TA|3018|n}}
| location=[[The Prancing Pony]]
| previous=At the Sign of the Prancing Pony
| next=A Knife in the Dark
}}

'''Strider''' is the tenth chapter of the first book in ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.

In this chapter, [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] has a private conversation with [[Strider]], and receives [[Gandalf]]'s letter from [[Barliman Butterbur]]. Strider promises to protect the Hobbits. [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] alerts the others that he had spotted a [[Black Rider]] in [[Bree]].

==Summary==

[[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]], [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]] and [[Peregrin Took|Pippin]] return to the [[Prancing Pony]]'s parlour to find [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] gone. They kindle the fire, only to discover that [[Strider]] had surreptitiously entered the room with them.

Strider offers Frodo information and advice. In return, he asks that the Hobbits allow him to accompany them until such time as he decides to leave. Frodo asks to know more about Strider before he decides. Strider is pleased with the demand, finding it very prudent.

Strider checks the door to make sure no one is listening in. He reveals that he had seen the Hobbits with [[Tom Bombadil]], and observed them entering [[Bree]]. He'd also heard Frodo warning the others to call him "Underhill" instead of "Baggins", which piqued Strider's curiosity since he had been specifically waiting for a "Frodo Baggins" coming from [[The Shire]]. Frodo attempts to make excuses, but Strider seems to know a great deal about Frodo's "secret", claiming that he has a strong interest in ensuring that the secret doesn't get out. Strider adds that he had spotted two [[Black Riders]] passing through Bree earlier.

Frodo laments having left the Hobbits' room at all that evening, and casts aspersions on [[Barliman Butterbur]] for convincing him to go to the common-room. Strider vouches for Barliman's credibility, and acknowledges that he, himself, looks very suspicious as well.

Strider again chides Frodo for putting on [[The One Ring]] earlier, hinting that it would draw more Black Riders to Bree. He warns Frodo about [[Bill Ferny]], the local who'd slipped out of the common-room together with the southern visitor after Frodo's "accident" with the Ring.

{{quote|He would sell anything to anybody; or make mischief for amusement.|[[Strider]] on [[Bill Ferny]]}}

Strider explains that he would be a great asset for navigating out of Bree, since the Hobbits would have to avoid the road at all costs. Sam advises against this, warning that Strider may be planning to lead the Hobbits into a trap. Frodo considers this and finally rejects Strider's offer, but presses Strider to reveal more about himself. Strider once again seems pleased that Frodo will err on the side of caution.

The conversation is cut short when Barliman Butterbur enters, and Strider retreats into the shadows. Barliman says that he now remembers what he had previously forgotten: He was supposed to expect a hobbit named "Baggins" going under the pseudonym "Underhill". He gives a description of Frodo as told to him by [[Gandalf]], whom he claims is his friend. Butterbur apologizes deeply, saying that Gandalf had instructed him to send a letter to [[Hobbiton]], which he had forgotten to do; only the Hobbits' arrival that night suddenly jogged his memory. He adds that Gandalf asked him to assist "Baggins" if he ever turned up, and to ask no questions of him.

Barliman mentions that Frodo may be in trouble, on account of dark men asking questions about him around Bree. He says that two of these dark men arrived the previous Monday and terrified his assistant. Butterbur turned them away, but they continued snooping around [[Bree-land]] for answers.

Barliman warns Frodo that Strider has also been asking questions about him. Strider steps out of the shadows, alarming Butterbur, who still insists that Frodo shouldn't trust the [[Ranger]]. Barliman implores Frodo to stay in Bree, but Strider advises strongly against this. He reveals that the Black Riders come from a land called "[[Mordor]]", a name which Butterbur recognizes with great alarm.

Strider asks Barliman to forget the name "Baggins". Barliman agrees, but warns that the rumor will get out quickly either way. He promises that he and his assistants will guard the inn that night, and will not let any Black Riders in.

After Barliman leaves, Frodo opens the letter from Gandalf and reads it to himself. In the letter, Gandalf instructs Frodo to leave The Shire before July {{TA|3018}}, and make for [[Rivendell]]. He asks Frodo to leave a message for him with Barliman Butterbur in case they haven't regrouped first. He vouches for both Barliman and for Strider; however he bids Frodo make sure that he encounters the ''real'' Strider, whose true name is Aragorn, adding a riddle that might help:

{{quote|All that is gold does not glitter,    Not all those who wander are lost; The old that is strong does not wither,    Deep roots are not reached by the frost. From the ashes a fire shall be woken,    A light from the shadows shall spring; Renewed shall be blade that was broken,    The crownless again shall be king.|The [[Riddle of Strider]]}}

The letter is signed with Gandalf's [[Angerthas]] rune for "G".

Frodo passes the letter to Sam and Pippin. He chides Strider about not revealing that he was Gandalf's friend to begin with. Strider answers that Frodo wouldn't have believed him. He also says he wanted to make sure Frodo was who he claimed to be, first. Finally he confides that he'd secretly hoped Frodo would trust him even without knowing he was Gandalf's friend.

Sam is still suspicious of Strider, suggesting he could've killed the real one and taken his place. Strider replies that if he'd wanted to take The One Ring at all, he could've done so immediately. With that, he springs to his feet and puts a hand on the hilt of his sword, appearing suddenly as a great danger to the Hobbits. However he quickly relaxes, revealing his full name as Aragorn son of [[Arathorn]], and pledging his life to Frodo's protection.

Finally, Frodo accepts Strider's offer to serve as their guide.

{{quote|You have frightened me several times tonight, but never in the way that servants of the Enemy would, or so I imagine. I think one of his spies would — well, seem fairer and feel fouler, if you understand.|[[Frodo Baggins]] to [[Aragorn]]}}

This prompts Strider to quote the [[Riddle of Strider]], which Frodo recognizes from the letter. Strider says that the riddle is connected to his real name. He pulls out his sword, showing that it is indeed broken. He claims it will soon be time to reforge the sword, as the Riddle foretells.

Strider says he will lead the Hobbits to [[Weathertop]], halfway between Bree and Rivendell. When Frodo asks about Gandalf's whereabouts, Strider replies that he does not know. He tells of how he'd come with Gandalf to the area in the previous spring, and last seen him on [[1 May]], {{TA|3018}}, at the [[Sarn Ford]]. Gandalf was still expecting Frodo to leave The Shire in September at the time. Thinking that Frodo was safe with Gandalf, Strider went off to take care of another errand. Strider later met [[Gildor Inglorion]], who told him that Frodo had left the Shire. Frodo worries that Gandalf might have been hurt by the Black Riders. Strider reassures him that Gandalf is much more powerful than the Hobbits know him to be.

Pippin is worried about Merry's absence. Just then, Merry returns together with Barliman's assistant [[Nob]]. He warns the others that he had seen a Black Rider here in Bree. Feeling an unexplained urge, he tried following it as it scampered away, but lost it near the south gate. He heard fell voices whispering in the dark, and turned quickly to run back to the inn, but was suddenly knocked out from behind. Nob then explains that he was sent out by Barliman to scout the area, and found Merry with two dark figures looming over him. Nob shouted at the figures, but they disappeared before he could identify them. Nob adds that the event occurred very near Bill Ferny's house.

Strider speculates that Merry had been struck with the "Black Breath", confirming that the Riders are indeed here, and that Bill Ferny and the southerner must have tipped them off. He also suspects [[Harry Goatleaf|Harry the gatekeeper]]'s involvement. He doesn't believe the Riders would attack the inn just yet, and would instead gather their forces first, preferring to attack once the Hobbits leave Bree.

Strider advises the Hobbits not to return to their rooms. Instead, Nob ruffles up their clothes and places them in the Hobbits' beds, under the blankets, to simulate their sleeping bodies. Nob returns to his guard duties while Strider and the Hobbits bar themselves inside the parlour, shuttering the windows. They set up mattresses around the hearth and go to sleep, with Strider propped up in a chair against the door.

==External links==
*[http://www.zarkanya.net/Tolkien/BreeEvents.htm Rough time-line of events in Bree, September 29, SR 1418] by Alcuin
{{title}}
[[Category:The Fellowship of the Ring chapters]]
[[fi:Konkari (TSH)]]

Strider (chapter)

2023-07-27T01:38:10Z

Headrock:

{{disambig-more|Strider|[[Strider (disambiguation)]]}}
{{chapter
| image=Matt Stewart - Strider.jpg
| title=Strider
| book=The Fellowship of the Ring
| number=10
| event=[[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] meets [[Strider (Aragorn)|Strider]].
| date=[[29 September]] {{TA|3018|n}}
| location=[[The Prancing Pony]]
| previous=At the Sign of the Prancing Pony
| next=A Knife in the Dark
}}

'''Strider''' is the tenth chapter of the first book in ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.

In this chapter, [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] has a private conversation with [[Strider]], and receives [[Gandalf]]'s letter from [[Barliman Butterbur]]. Strider promises to protect the Hobbits. [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] alerts the others that he had spotted a [[Black Rider]] in [[Bree]].

==Summary==

[[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]], [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]] and [[Peregrin Took|Pippin]] return to the [[Prancing Pony]]'s parlour to find [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] gone. They kindle the fire, only to discover that [[Strider]] had surreptitiously entered the room with them.

Strider offers Frodo information and advice. In return, he asks that the Hobbits allow him to accompany them until such time as he decides to leave. Frodo asks to know more about Strider before he decides. Strider is pleased with the demand, finding it very prudent.

Strider checks the door to make sure no one is listening in. He reveals that he had seen the Hobbits with [[Tom Bombadil]], and observed them entering [[Bree]]. He'd also heard Frodo warning the others to call him "Underhill" instead of "Baggins", which piqued Strider's curiosity since he had been specifically waiting for a "Frodo Baggins" coming from [[The Shire]]. Frodo attempts to make excuses, but Strider seems to know a great deal about Frodo's "secret", claiming that he has a strong interest in ensuring that the secret doesn't get out. Strider adds that he had spotted two [[Black Riders]] passing through Bree earlier.

Frodo laments having left the Hobbits' room at all that evening, and casts aspersions on [[Barliman Butterbur]] for convincing him to go to the common-room. Strider vouches for Barliman's credibility, and acknowledges that he, himself, looks very suspicious as well.

Strider again chides Frodo for putting on [[The One Ring]] earlier, hinting that it would draw more Black Riders to Bree. He warns Frodo about [[Bill Ferny]], the local who'd slipped out of the common-room together with the southern visitor after Frodo's "accident" with the Ring.

{{quote|He would sell anything to anybody; or make mischief for amusement.|[[Strider]] on [[Bill Ferny]]}}

Strider explains that he would be a great asset for navigating out of Bree, since the Hobbits would have to avoid the road at all costs. Sam advises against this, warning that Strider may be planning to lead the Hobbits into a trap. Frodo considers this and finally rejects Strider's offer, but presses Strider to reveal more about himself. Strider once again seems pleased that Frodo will err on the side of caution.

The conversation is cut short when Barliman Butterbur enters, and Strider retreats into the shadows. Barliman says that he now remembers what he had previously forgotten: He was supposed to expect a hobbit named "Baggins" going under the pseudonym "Underhill". He gives a description of Frodo as told to him by [[Gandalf]], whom he claims is his friend. Butterbur apologizes deeply, saying that Gandalf had instructed him to send a letter to Hobbiton, which he had forgotten to do; only the Hobbits' arrival that night suddenly jogged his memory. He adds that Gandalf asked him to assist "Baggins" if he ever turned up, and to ask no questions of him.

Barliman mentions that Frodo may be in trouble, on account of dark men asking questions about him around Bree. He says that two of these dark men arrived the previous Monday and terrified his assistant. Butterbur turned them away, but they continued snooping around [[Bree-land]] for answers.

Barliman warns Frodo that Strider has also been asking questions about him. Strider steps out of the shadows, alarming Butterbur, who still insists that Frodo shouldn't trust the [[Ranger]]. Barliman implores Frodo to stay in Bree, but Strider advises strongly against this. He reveals that the Black Riders come from a land called "[[Mordor]]", a name which Butterbur recognizes with great alarm.

Strider asks Barliman to forget the name "Baggins". Barliman agrees, but warns that the rumor will get out quickly either way. He promises that he and his assistants will guard the inn that night, and will not let any Black Riders in.

After Barliman leaves, Frodo opens the letter from Gandalf and reads it to himself. In the letter, Gandalf instructs Frodo to leave The Shire before July {{TA|3018}}, and make for [[Rivendell]]. He asks Frodo to leave a message for him with Barliman Butterbur in case they haven't regrouped first. He vouches for both Barliman and for Strider; however he bids Frodo make sure that he encounters the ''real'' Strider, whose true name is Aragorn, adding a riddle that might help:

{{quote|All that is gold does not glitter,    Not all those who wander are lost; The old that is strong does not wither,    Deep roots are not reached by the frost. From the ashes a fire shall be woken,    A light from the shadows shall spring; Renewed shall be blade that was broken,    The crownless again shall be king.|The [[Riddle of Strider]]}}

The letter is signed with Gandalf's [[Angerthas]] rune for "G".

Frodo passes the letter to Sam and Pippin. He chides Strider about not revealing that he was Gandalf's friend to begin with. Strider answers that Frodo wouldn't have believed him. He also says he wanted to make sure Frodo was who he claimed to be, first. Finally he confides that he'd secretly hoped Frodo would trust him even without knowing he was Gandalf's friend.

Sam is still suspicious of Strider, suggesting he could've killed the real one and taken his place. Strider replies that if he'd wanted to take The One Ring at all, he could've done so immediately. With that, he springs to his feet and puts a hand on the hilt of his sword, appearing suddenly as a great danger to the Hobbits. However he quickly relaxes, revealing his full name as Aragorn son of [[Arathorn]], and pledging his life to Frodo's protection.

Finally, Frodo accepts Strider's offer to serve as their guide.

{{quote|You have frightened me several times tonight, but never in the way that servants of the Enemy would, or so I imagine. I think one of his spies would — well, seem fairer and feel fouler, if you understand.|[[Frodo Baggins]] to [[Aragorn]]}}

This prompts Strider to quote the [[Riddle of Strider]], which Frodo recognizes from the letter. Strider says that the riddle is connected to his real name. He pulls out his sword, showing that it is indeed broken. He claims it will soon be time to reforge the sword, as the Riddle foretells.

Strider says he will lead the Hobbits to [[Weathertop]], halfway between Bree and Rivendell. When Frodo asks about Gandalf's whereabouts, Strider replies that he does not know. He tells of how he'd come with Gandalf to the area in the previous spring, and last seen him on [[1 May]], {{TA|3018}}, at the [[Sarn Ford]]. Gandalf was still expecting Frodo to leave The Shire in September at the time. Thinking that Frodo was safe with Gandalf, Strider went off to take care of another errand. Strider later met [[Gildor Inglorion]], who told him that Frodo had left the Shire. Frodo worries that Gandalf might have been hurt by the Black Riders. Strider reassures him that Gandalf is much more powerful than the Hobbits know him to be.

Pippin is worried about Merry's absence. Just then, Merry returns together with Barliman's assistant [[Nob]]. He warns the others that he had seen a Black Rider here in Bree. Feeling an unexplained urge, he tried following it as it scampered away, but lost it near the south gate. He heard fell voices whispering in the dark, and turned quickly to run back to the inn, but was suddenly knocked out from behind. Nob then explains that he was sent out by Barliman to scout the area, and found Merry with two dark figures looming over him. Nob shouted at the figures, but they disappeared before he could identify them. Nob adds that the event occurred very near Bill Ferny's house.

Strider speculates that Merry had been struck with the "Black Breath", confirming that the Riders are indeed here, and that Bill Ferny and the southerner must have tipped them off. He also suspects [[Harry Goatleaf|Harry the gatekeeper]]'s involvement. He doesn't believe the Riders would attack the inn just yet, and would instead gather their forces first, preferring to attack once the Hobbits leave Bree.

Strider advises the Hobbits not to return to their rooms. Instead, Nob ruffles up their clothes and places them in the Hobbits' beds, under the blankets, to simulate their sleeping bodies. Nob returns to his guard duties while Strider and the Hobbits bar themselves inside the parlour, shuttering the windows. They set up mattresses around the hearth and go to sleep, with Strider propped up in a chair against the door.

==External links==
*[http://www.zarkanya.net/Tolkien/BreeEvents.htm Rough time-line of events in Bree, September 29, SR 1418] by Alcuin
{{title}}
[[Category:The Fellowship of the Ring chapters]]
[[fi:Konkari (TSH)]]

Strider (chapter)

2023-07-27T01:37:28Z

Headrock: This chapter is extremely dense; almost every paragraph contains at least one point to be mentioned - and everything seems to be connected together. Minor edits to follow.

{{disambig-more|Strider|[[Strider (disambiguation)]]}}
{{chapter
| image=Matt Stewart - Strider.jpg
| title=Strider
| book=The Fellowship of the Ring
| number=10
| event=[[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] meets [[Strider (Aragorn)|Strider]].
| date=[[29 September]] {{TA|3018|n}}
| location=[[The Prancing Pony]]
| previous=At the Sign of the Prancing Pony
| next=A Knife in the Dark
}}

'''Strider''' is the tenth chapter of the first book in ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.

In this chapter, [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] has a private conversation with [[Strider]], and receives [[Gandalf]]'s letter from [[Barliman Butterbur]]. Strider promises to protect the Hobbits. [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] alerts the others than he had spotted a [[Black Rider]] in [[Bree]].

==Summary==

[[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]], [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]] and [[Peregrin Took|Pippin]] return to the [[Prancing Pony]]'s parlour to find [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] gone. They kindle the fire, only to discover that [[Strider]] had surreptitiously entered the room with them.

Strider offers Frodo information and advice. In return, he asks that the Hobbits allow him to accompany them until such time as he decides to leave. Frodo asks to know more about Strider before he decides. Strider is pleased with the demand, finding it very prudent.

Strider checks the door to make sure no one is listening in. He reveals that he had seen the Hobbits with [[Tom Bombadil]], and observed them entering [[Bree]]. He'd also heard Frodo warning the others to call him "Underhill" instead of "Baggins", which piqued Strider's curiosity since he had been specifically waiting for a "Frodo Baggins" coming from [[The Shire]]. Frodo attempts to make excuses, but Strider seems to know a great deal about Frodo's "secret", claiming that he has a strong interest in ensuring that the secret doesn't get out. Strider adds that he had spotted two [[Black Riders]] passing through Bree earlier.

Frodo laments having left the Hobbits' room at all that evening, and casts aspersions on [[Barliman Butterbur]] for convincing him to go to the common-room. Strider vouches for Barliman's credibility, and acknowledges that he, himself, looks very suspicious as well.

Strider again chides Frodo for putting on [[The One Ring]] earlier, hinting that it would draw more Black Riders to Bree. He warns Frodo about [[Bill Ferny]], the local who'd slipped out of the common-room together with the southern visitor after Frodo's "accident" with the Ring.

{{quote|He would sell anything to anybody; or make mischief for amusement.|[[Strider]] on [[Bill Ferny]]}}

Strider explains that he would be a great asset for navigating out of Bree, since the Hobbits would have to avoid the road at all costs. Sam advises against this, warning that Strider may be planning to lead the Hobbits into a trap. Frodo considers this and finally rejects Strider's offer, but presses Strider to reveal more about himself. Strider once again seems pleased that Frodo will err on the side of caution.

The conversation is cut short when Barliman Butterbur enters, and Strider retreats into the shadows. Barliman says that he now remembers what he had previously forgotten: He was supposed to expect a hobbit named "Baggins" going under the pseudonym "Underhill". He gives a description of Frodo as told to him by [[Gandalf]], whom he claims is his friend. Butterbur apologizes deeply, saying that Gandalf had instructed him to send a letter to Hobbiton, which he had forgotten to do; only the Hobbits' arrival that night suddenly jogged his memory. He adds that Gandalf asked him to assist "Baggins" if he ever turned up, and to ask no questions of him.

Barliman mentions that Frodo may be in trouble, on account of dark men asking questions about him around Bree. He says that two of these dark men arrived the previous Monday and terrified his assistant. Butterbur turned them away, but they continued snooping around [[Bree-land]] for answers.

Barliman warns Frodo that Strider has also been asking questions about him. Strider steps out of the shadows, alarming Butterbur, who still insists that Frodo shouldn't trust the [[Ranger]]. Barliman implores Frodo to stay in Bree, but Strider advises strongly against this. He reveals that the Black Riders come from a land called "[[Mordor]]", a name which Butterbur recognizes with great alarm.

Strider asks Barliman to forget the name "Baggins". Barliman agrees, but warns that the rumor will get out quickly either way. He promises that he and his assistants will guard the inn that night, and will not let any Black Riders in.

After Barliman leaves, Frodo opens the letter from Gandalf and reads it to himself. In the letter, Gandalf instructs Frodo to leave The Shire before July {{TA|3018}}, and make for [[Rivendell]]. He asks Frodo to leave a message for him with Barliman Butterbur in case they haven't regrouped first. He vouches for both Barliman and for Strider; however he bids Frodo make sure that he encounters the ''real'' Strider, whose true name is Aragorn, adding a riddle that might help:

{{quote|All that is gold does not glitter,    Not all those who wander are lost; The old that is strong does not wither,    Deep roots are not reached by the frost. From the ashes a fire shall be woken,    A light from the shadows shall spring; Renewed shall be blade that was broken,    The crownless again shall be king.|The [[Riddle of Strider]]}}

The letter is signed with Gandalf's [[Angerthas]] rune for "G".

Frodo passes the letter to Sam and Pippin. He chides Strider about not revealing that he was Gandalf's friend to begin with. Strider answers that Frodo wouldn't have believed him. He also says he wanted to make sure Frodo was who he claimed to be, first. Finally he confides that he'd secretly hoped Frodo would trust him even without knowing he was Gandalf's friend.

Sam is still suspicious of Strider, suggesting he could've killed the real one and taken his place. Strider replies that if he'd wanted to take The One Ring at all, he could've done so immediately. With that, he springs to his feet and puts a hand on the hilt of his sword, appearing suddenly as a great danger to the Hobbits. However he quickly relaxes, revealing his full name as Aragorn son of [[Arathorn]], and pledging his life to Frodo's protection.

Finally, Frodo accepts Strider's offer to serve as their guide.

{{quote|You have frightened me several times tonight, but never in the way that servants of the Enemy would, or so I imagine. I think one of his spies would — well, seem fairer and feel fouler, if you understand.|[[Frodo Baggins]] to [[Aragorn]]}}

This prompts Strider to quote the [[Riddle of Strider]], which Frodo recognizes from the letter. Strider says that the riddle is connected to his real name. He pulls out his sword, showing that it is indeed broken. He claims it will soon be time to reforge the sword, as the Riddle foretells.

Strider says he will lead the Hobbits to [[Weathertop]], halfway between Bree and Rivendell. When Frodo asks about Gandalf's whereabouts, Strider replies that he does not know. He tells of how he'd come with Gandalf to the area in the previous spring, and last seen him on [[1 May]], {{TA|3018}}, at the [[Sarn Ford]]. Gandalf was still expecting Frodo to leave The Shire in September at the time. Thinking that Frodo was safe with Gandalf, Strider went off to take care of another errand. Strider later met [[Gildor Inglorion]], who told him that Frodo had left the Shire. Frodo worries that Gandalf might have been hurt by the Black Riders. Strider reassures him that Gandalf is much more powerful than the Hobbits know him to be.

Pippin is worried about Merry's absence. Just then, Merry returns together with Barliman's assistant [[Nob]]. He warns the others that he had seen a Black Rider here in Bree. Feeling an unexplained urge, he tried following it as it scampered away, but lost it near the south gate. He heard fell voices whispering in the dark, and turned quickly to run back to the inn, but was suddenly knocked out from behind. Nob then explains that he was sent out by Barliman to scout the area, and found Merry with two dark figures looming over him. Nob shouted at the figures, but they disappeared before he could identify them. Nob adds that the event occurred very near Bill Ferny's house.

Strider speculates that Merry had been struck with the "Black Breath", confirming that the Riders are indeed here, and that Bill Ferny and the southerner must have tipped them off. He also suspects [[Harry Goatleaf|Harry the gatekeeper]]'s involvement. He doesn't believe the Riders would attack the inn just yet, and would instead gather their forces first, preferring to attack once the Hobbits leave Bree.

Strider advises the Hobbits not to return to their rooms. Instead, Nob ruffles up their clothes and places them in the Hobbits' beds, under the blankets, to simulate their sleeping bodies. Nob returns to his guard duties while Strider and the Hobbits bar themselves inside the parlour, shuttering the windows. They set up mattresses around the hearth and go to sleep, with Strider propped up in a chair against the door.

==External links==
*[http://www.zarkanya.net/Tolkien/BreeEvents.htm Rough time-line of events in Bree, September 29, SR 1418] by Alcuin
{{title}}
[[Category:The Fellowship of the Ring chapters]]
[[fi:Konkari (TSH)]]

User talk:Headrock

2023-07-26T22:18:12Z

Headrock: /* Chapter Summaries */ Reply

At the Sign of the Prancing Pony

2023-07-26T06:11:05Z

Headrock: I've made an adjustment applying some suggestions by JR Snow on my talk page. I feel like this is the shortest the paragraph can get without losing information that either supports the rest of the narrative, or is pertinent in and of itself. Will be glad to discuss whether this is better, worse, or not enough.

{{chapter
| image=Ted Nasmith - At the Sign of the Prancing Pony.jpg
| title=At the Sign of the Prancing Pony
| book=The Fellowship of the Ring
| number=9
| event=[[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] comes to the [[Prancing Pony]]; he meets [[Strider (Aragorn)|Strider]] and [[Barliman Butterbur]].
| date=[[29 September]] {{TA|3018|n}}
| location=[[The Prancing Pony]]
| previous=Fog on the Barrow-downs
| next=Strider (chapter)
}}

'''At the Sign of the Prancing Pony''' is the ninth chapter of the first book in ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.

In this chapter, the four [[Hobbits]] arrive in the village of [[Bree]] and visit the ''[[Prancing Pony]]'' inn. The Hobbits meet proprietor [[Barliman Butterbur]] and rent a room, then sit down to have drink in the common-room, where Frodo accidentally puts on [[The One Ring]] and causes a commotion. He meets [[Aragorn|Strider]], and is then invited to a private conversation with Butterbur.

==Summary==

The chapter begins with the narrator explaining a little about the village of [[Bree]], which lies at the end of the [[East Road]] on an ancient and well-traveled crossroads. The village is populated mostly by [[Men]] who, according to legend, are descended from [[Pre-Númenóreans|the first Men to migrate]] to Western [[Middle-earth]]. We're also told that in the areas outside [[Bree-land]] live a different group of Men known as the [[Rangers]], whose origins are not known; they wander the land and often bring news from outside, but are not friends of the Bree-landers.

We're also told that quite a few [[Hobbits|Hobbit]] families live around Bree, and coexist peacefully with the Men (though they live in separate communities). These Hobbit settlements are said to be older than [[The Shire]], and their inhabitants are distantly related to the [[Brandybucks]]. Hobbit visits to and from The Shire are said to have dwindled in recent times.

Finally, we are told that Bree has an ancient inn (the [[Prancing Pony]]) which used to be a popular meeting place for travelers; so much so that the innkeeper is considered a very important person in the village. However, the [[North Road]] has become disused as the lands up north have depopulated.

[[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]], [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]], [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] and [[Peregrin Took|Pippin]] ride up to Bree's western gate after nightfall, to find it shut. However, a gatekeeper named [[Harry Goatleaf|Harry]] spots them and asks where they're going and who they are. Frodo reveals very little, saying only that they've come from [[Buckland]] and are headed to the inn. Merry identifies himself as a Brandybuck. This placates Harry, who opens the gate for them, but mentions that there may be other visitors who have been asking questions about four Hobbits arriving in Bree. Frodo speculates to himself whether Harry might be speaking about [[Gandalf]], though he finds Harry suspicious. As the Hobbits enter the village, a dark figure climbs over the wall and into the village.

When Sam sees the inn, he becomes suspicious and recommends seeking out a Hobbit family to stay with. Frodo reminds him that [[Tom Bombadil]] had recommended the inn and spoke well of its proprietor, [[Barliman Butterbur]].

The Hobbits take their ponies into the courtyard, where they encounter Barliman. After introductions, Barliman seems to recall something related to four Hobbits, but can't remember what it was. He apologizes that the inn is quite busy, indicating that it is an unusual situation. He finds them a room suitable for hobbits and has their ponies taken to his stables.

The Hobbits settle in and get washed. Barliman returns with food and drinks, which the Hobbits find familiar and reassuring. Barliman invites the Hobbits to the common room to share in the merriment and news, but does not press them to go. Frodo, Sam and Pippin decide to go, whereas Merry decides to stay behind, saying he might go for a walk later. He reminds the others that they should remain careful, while Pippin advises Merry to stay indoors.

In the common-room are many different people, including Men, [[Dwarves]], and local Hobbits. Barliman introduces everybody. Some of the local Hobbits turn out to be Underhills - the pseudonym which Frodo has been using. As a result, the Hobbits welcome him gladly as a long-lost relation, but also question him thoroughly. Frodo invents an explanation to his journey: He is interested in history and geography, and is traveling in the hope of collecting information for a book on Hobbits living outside the Shire. This causes the Hobbits to volunteer excessive amounts of information, but Frodo shows disinterest and soon finds himself sitting alone.

The Men and Dwarves have a discussion about trouble in the south. There is worry that large numbers of people may be coming up the North Road, seeking refuge from something. The local Hobbits, however, are more interested in hearing news from the Shire, and press Sam and Pippin for information about the "Shire Underhills".

Frodo, meanwhile, notices a man watching him closely from the corner of the room. The man seems well-traveled, and is smoking a pipe, his face shadowed by a heavy hood. Frodo asks Butterbur who the man is. Butterbur explains that he is one of the Rangers who occasionally shows up at the inn. He doesn't know the man's name, but his nickname in Bree is "Strider" on account of his long legs and frequent travels. Butterbur appears to think it strange that Frodo asked about Strider, but is called away before he can complete his thought.

Strider motions to Frodo to come speak with him, which Frodo does. Strider introduces himself, and warns Frodo to stop his friends from talking too much. Frodo realizes that Pippin, having entranced the local Hobbits with stories about the Shire, has begun telling the story of [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]]'s farewell party - which ended with him putting on [[The One Ring]] and vanishing into thin air. Frodo is suddenly alarmed that Pippin might mention the Ring.

With Strider's prodding to take action, Frodo gets up on a table and begins to talk, fidgeting with the Ring in his pocket as he does, and having to fight a sudden urge to put it on. All attention is turned to Frodo.

{{quote|We are all very much gratified by the kindness of your reception, and I venture to hope that my brief visit will help to renew the old ties of friendship between the Shire and Bree.|[[Frodo Baggins]]}}

Frodo's audience begin calling for a song. Off the top of his head, Frodo begins singing [[The Man in the Moon Stayed Up Too Late|a song about an inn]], which the locals appreciate so much that they ask to hear it again. Frodo obliges, but gets carried away and begins dancing on the table-top. He slips off the table and falls, and to everyone's amazement he suddenly disappears into thin air.

The other guests eye Sam and Pippin suspiciously, now regarding them as friends of a traveling magician of some sort. A Bree-lander and a traveler from the south, who had been whispering together all evening, make their way out of the room, followed by Harry the gatekeeper.

Frodo, meanwhile, makes his way to Strider's corner and takes off the Ring. We are told he has no idea how it came to be on his finger. Strider chastises him.

{{quote|Well? Why did you do that? Worse than anything your friends could have said! You have put your foot in it! Or should I say your finger?|[[Aragorn|Strider]]}}

Frodo tries obfuscating, but Strider appears to know exactly what had happened. He invites Frodo to speak with him later, saying he has something to tell Frodo that is of some importance to him.

Barliman Butterbur arrives, and the guests begin questioning him about Frodo's disappearance. Frodo then steps forward to show that he hasn't vanished, saying that he'd simply crawled away under the tables. The guests don't buy this story, and grumble about the quality of the evening's entertainment. They soon leave one after another, until none are left but the Hobbits, Strider, and Butterbur.

Butterbur asks Frodo to promise not to cause any further trouble, but also reassures Frodo that the event will not affect his business negatively - saying that the mystery will only draw people back to the inn to discuss it. Frodo excuses himself, saying that he wishes to go to bed. Butterbur asks to speak to him in private before they leave in the morning, about something he's just remembered.

Frodo becomes suspicious that everyone here - including Butterbur - is hiding some dark secret.

==External links==
*[http://www.zarkanya.net/Tolkien/BreeEvents.htm Rough time-line of events in Bree, September 29, SR 1418] by Alcuin
[[Category:The Fellowship of the Ring chapters]]
[[fi:Pomppivan Ponin majatalossa (TSH)]]