chapter - 9

The spider let out a terrible cry.The spider was huge with eight legs and ancient it looked.Its eyes were terrible to behold but its one eye hadnt healed fully from the wound samwise had given it.It had a huge oval body and one of its arms was a powerful and poisonous stinger.The cry bought many elves to the place but they stood far and watched silently for they knew that no arrow could hurt the spider.The prince looked above and could see nothing.He looked back.Elladan motioned above the rock.The oprince slowly moved his way towards the valley below always looking upwards.The spider saw him and sensed her prey.Yes it was a female spider.Always haunting the moutains west and south of Mordor.Suaron knew of her and did not fear her and though he did not own her he called her his cat.

The prince looked above he could see the gigantic spider now.He removed his sword and uttered a short spell.The sword grew red and fire spat from it.The spider jumped from the mountain and to the prince.Slowly it advanced.It raised its stinger and its sword like arms.IT started hitting out at the prince.The prince then and again raised his sword and blocked all her hits with his.
Elladan shouted,"Hit her eyes.Hit her eyes."
He knew her soft spot now.It was here eyes and her body.He ran under her onto the other side the side that faced the mountains.He slowly climbed up the mountain.He got up on the rock.The spider turned towards the rock.The prince jumped onto her.She smelled worse than any orc.He went towards her head and stabbed her on the head thrice that she shook and threw the prince on the ground.The spider now mad rushed at the prince and pinned him and raised its stinger to strike him down.

The prince did not know what do d.He was pinned down.He had no strength to repel that beast and no magic could move it away from the prince.

An arrow came whistling towards he spider's eye but the time was unfortunate coz the spider moved a little and the arrow stuck the psiders jaws.The spider looked towards the elves and let out a terrible cry.The elves trembled.The air became heavier and the elves found it hard to tread the ways towards the prince.The prince had closed his ears.When the cry stopped,he still found himself spinned.He tried to move his hand towards the fallen sword.It still grew red as ever.

The prince uttered "Lastha beth ulell."A bright wind light came and stuck her eyes.She retreated but came dwon soon but the prince was free now.He ran towards he elves.The elves fired arrows.The prince now took a westward turn and rushed towards the light and there he stood in the light.the red swrod could be seen and the spider wouldnt come near him.

"Lasta beth Fellal" the prince said.

The prince moved towards the rock and jumped on it with a speed only the fastest elf could match.The prince then jumped on the spider light following him.The prince was now clever enough to avoid stabbing her head.He stabbed her body instead.Poisonous globules and her blood was spilt.The sword burnt and the burning sensation was felt even by the spider.

The spider threw the prince again.This time the spider went mad and came towards the prince very fast.He could not do anything now.Spent with spell he only wished for some hope.


That very time an axe hit the spider's eye and the spider retreated and from the west came a sturdy dwarf.

The spider having been stabbed in the eye retreated and unleashed her fury on the new come dwarf.She rushed towards hinm but she felt arrows going through hey body and red burning sword in her gut.The sword took all life from her.The spider died and her carcass fell towards the right.The dwarf removed his axe and then slowly went towards the prince.

The prince came and thanked the dwarf.

"Welcome prince of the east and the west.I am Glondir son of Gimli son of Gloin of the Thorin Oakenshield..My father was one of the fellowship."

The elves came forward to meet the new dwarf in glee.Elladan and Elrohir knew him but the other elves did not.The dwarf acknowledged the elves and the prince.

Elladan said,"Of course Glondir,we know you.Son of gimli the elf-friend.With him the ties between the forest and the mountains were renewed.Long have we not seen yo.And you meet us here in the unlikeliest of all places in middle earth.But then,You have aided us in our very need.Why do you fare here and why have you left your place in the Glittering Caves of Aglarond?"

To this Glondir replied,"Well i heard of many things going on eastward,news that orothorn the wizard bought me.He said you might be in trouble upon the roads and he believed you might be forced to take roads of peril.He said something of the enemy and now it seems it is true.You elves are war-weary and your clothes tell me so.I left the glittering caves on orothorn's bidding and travelled long and quick to cover the leagues.Only two days back i was in the city of minas tirith.And then i ve strode many leauges and i found you here fighting that giant of a spider at the right time.If i was even a little late,i would bnot have forgiven myself.My son is the ruling chief of the dwarves now.I have grown old and cant seem to take any rule of any kind now.So i am free and am sent to guide you.You are nowhere near the white city and it is still leagues to the great river.Come now we must march ahead.Time is less and every day lost is evil's time gained.Come Elladan,Come Elrohir,Come Azrud,we have to leave."

"How do you know my name,Glondir?"

"I know many things i nthis world master prince but as for yours Orothorn the wizard told me.Now come.I would see you all safe in minas tirith.There are councils to hold. And the West must hear and understand this new peril at once."

And so the Company marched.

The company passed many valleys and crossed many hills.The dwarf now led them.Soon they came across a summit where they could see a forested valley below.They had reached Ithilien and Gondor.

The Company climbed down the hill faster.They came into the forest lands.The birds were chirping and the trees were hustling.

"Ah This is heaven.Look at the trees grow." said Elladan

"Oh I thought elves referred all forests as heaven.Whats with Ithilien?" said glondir.

"All forest are heaven master dwarf.They are useful to a lot."

"I did not say they were useless."

"What you said almost meant that."

"Ah!I do not hold with living in forests master elf,Tree houses are not to my liking."

"Well they are to us.Tree houses are a shelter in times of need."

"Shelter?Even our mountain halls are a shelter in times of need."

"But they can be broken down."

"Even trees can be cut down.See North Ithilien.Sauron cut most of them and left them to rot.Even men these days are cutting down a lot.Resources they say?Why they cut down for resources i wonder?"

"Let another grow when you cut one."

"Ah i know this,you know this but who will wring sense into stupid men."

"You forget that you have a man in your company master Glondir." said Azrud.

"Hah!You look more like an elf prince.Hope you do not become one.They are delirious."

"You forget there are elves in your company too master Glondir." said Elrohir

"Yes master elf,i know that but what i say is always what i mean.They are delirious.Mad i call them Always laughing at our beards as if they do not grow themselves."

"Well master dwarf.It is time you leanred courtesy."

"You would not say that if you were in my halls.There courtesy to a guest is the primary thing."

"Even so in our halls master dwarf.Ever should you come to Rivendell,you would not be treated badly."

"Again forests.Fortress of the forests.Well it is useless to argue with an elf."

"And so it is with the dwarves.But let our fight end here.We have a long way ahead."

"Ah!there is the one thing that you and i agree upon.The way andyou strike the right cord there.Well,Lets march.We might find some elvess upon the way,.Not far now and we will enjoy their drink."

"Just a few minutes before the dwarf was critisizing the elven courtesy.Now the dwarf seems to have fallen for it."

"No master elf,i was not criticising any courtesy.i was criticising your way of living in the forests."

"Nay do not start it again.Lets march"

The company plunged into the deep frests with the mountains of shadow looming near.

The Company walked amidst the trees.The air was wholesome and not as evil as the paths they took before.They had endured the evilest of paths that still lay upon middle earth. the elves like the forest paths.The dwarf was missing the hardness of stone.The dwarf went on leading the way now.He always steered westward.Always kneeling down and determining which path to take.The paths were chaotic in south ithilien.One could easily lose his way if he foundered.The dwarf took them westwards.But he decided now on taking a northward route.The elven land of ithilien was not nearing and the dwarf sensed he had taken a wrong route.

The dwarf took the northward road.Eastward rose the shadow mountains.The mountains did look like it was seeing them with malevolent eyes.The peaks were bleak.The forests changed after some leagues of travel.Night and day they marched without rest.They had to get to Minas Tirith fast.They would rest a day in the elven realm of Ithilien.Few as the elves were they lived peacefully in the forests thought that land was still under the rule of Gondor.

The Company marched long and the next moment they were under threat of bows and arrows.

The dwarf shouted,"Cool now,it is only me Glondir the dwarf."

The elves laughed,"You still come to drink our barrels of mead,eh?You forget or choose to forget that you drank barrels of mead two days back when you were on your way eastwards.You come soon.And there is no more."

"No No.Now it is the turn of your kindred to take the barrels."

"Elladan and Elrohir,good to see you in the forests of ithilien.Long it is since you travelled through here around three months back.Good to see you alive.And you bring a man with you.He looks like an elf.Kingly and majestic he is.Welcome prince.I am Lindir leader of the elves of ithilen.You are welcome to our halls.You can rest here with peace here.I was once in rivendell.We are but stayin a little while here ere we too take to the sea."

With this the elves took the Company to their halls.

The Company came to the elven halls to find many elves laughing and singing.The trees were happy that they had elves dwelling among them.Their halls were simple and open.No walls surrounded.They had built tree houses and lived on those.They bought food to the Company and they ate them gleefully with both hands open.The dwarf was known to the elves there.The elven leader Lindir invited them to his house.The hall of the elven leader was a little huge.He sat on a small throne enthralled with spells of preservation and growth.It let out a radiation of white light that spelt growth.

"Weclocme all of you to the elven halls of Ithilien.The courtesy of my halls have grown less of late.For my people have taken to the wide seas and the elven homes.Hope you are not discomforted."

"No problem,Lindir" siad the dwarf,"Your barrels of meads make up for the loss."

Lindir laughed aloud,"You drink much dwarf much more than can be thought of in such a dwarf lord."

"Well if a man can pursue a passion, why cant a dwarf?"

"I do not have any objection dwarf.Well Elladan and Elrohir,i havent had time to greet you enough.Now tell me what doom do you bring to us out of the east?"

"Evil is preparing in the east.War is coming.WE must prepare."

"We do not have any strength left to fight any evil lords.We cannot fight.Perhaps i should consider leaving these lands soon to the Undying Lands."

"Well i donot say flee lindir,Elves have fled all along.I know elves can no longer bear the burdens of middle earth and they have fought long against the dark lords of old but i will not have us flee now.The dominion of men is still running in middle earth but the elves should not utterly forsake it.I suggest you to retreat to osgiliath or minas tirith and add to their forces.Or come with u to Rivendell from where you can take to the sea if you want.But do not speak of fleeing."

Lindir smiled,"Well too many ages have i desired to see he light of the forsaken west.Now you tell me to abandon my desire for sake of safety of middle earth.But nay,i would not.The evil is too much.These lands are always laden with sorrow.We will help as we may but soon we will take to the harbors.Harlond is not far away."

"I doubt you will be able to flee that way.If i am not mistaken the enemy may yet poison the Corsairs of Umbar to fight alongside him and then you will be doomed.Naa i say stand and fight.Regain you honour and valour."

"What you say is probably right.We will stay for a few years.But i greatly desire to see the Undying Lands."

"May you see it yet Lindir."

"Yes.But now Prince of the east.A heir of numenor i am told.The great grandchild of Elfivril i hear.Good that you have come back.Though i come to you last may it not occur to you that you are forgotten O great prince.Kingly you look and elf too.Welcome and though your stay is less here we look to see the most of you.It is long since your ancestors left Gondor.But now you are welcome back."

"And yes the sons of elrond,The king of Gondor wants to see you as fast as possible.He asked me that if you should pass by this land by the midsummer's eve you should be asked to do so.And that is now near.And since you are travelling to the white city,i guess you should meet.I do not know the purpose of this message but i was bidden and i have done.The message arrived in haste and also it said to us to send the heri of numenor with great pomp and so we have prepared these clothes for you prince.You shall wear these and go to minas tirith.The white city and the realm of Gondor welcomes you heartily."

"How could the news of my existence reach the king?"

"Orothorn the wizard of course.He has great ways of travelling."

"Hah that he has.Well i would not be so worried if i could have some more barrels of these mead you have given me."

The elves laughed.

Dawn arose quickly.Sunlight could be seen in between the leaves of the trees.The Company woke up and got ready to march.They had a long march ahead still.

They found the elves of thilien woken up.The prince and the Company dressed in the arrays provided to them.The Company began to depart.At that time,Lindir the Elf came to them.

"Farewell Company of the east.May you have a great journey ahead.May the light of Elbereth speed you with hope and goodwill of all the elves.It is still fifteen leagues from here to the Crossroads and from thence ten lagues to the eastern marches of Osgiliath.I
ask you to take the westward road from the crossroads and go towards osgiliath.Find the secret ways.I think Glondir,you know them pretty well.The ways lead under the river to the western city of Osgiliath and from there you can take the road to Minas Tirith.Now Fare you well and i have provided food and drink to last upto your journey or atleast till Osgiliath.If you want to hhunt there is lot of game ahead.Now go with all speed and let not the darkness trouble you.Farewell."


The Company left the tents and marched north.The marched through long dales ever nearing the mountains of Shadow.Fifteen leagues they traversed.Trees grew everywhere.They came to a pint where four roads converged.One led to the north other to the east and other to the west.The southward road they had tread.

Glondir said,"Well this road goes north to the plains of Dagorlad."

"Dagorlad" exclaimed the prince,"Is that not the place where the battles werre fought?"

"Yay,The battles of the LastAllaince and the Black Gates.And this is the eastward road that leads to the city of Minas Morgul,formerly a city of Gondor named Minas Ithil,City of the moon and the Stars.It was utterly destroyed on command of the great king and its evil is now completely subdued.Now we take the westward road.It is not far from Osgiliath now since these are the Crossroads that Lindir spoke of.Now west we go and find the secret passages."
The Company now went west. The Company strode for many leagues.They came upon a path that Glondir knew that would take them to the secret doors.Wind galed heavily on this day that it was difficult to stand against it.It was the west wind.They could now see small hillocks that were rising in the west.The hillocks were covered with forests and only one path led them and that was the westward road from the crossroads.But there were many secret paths that led into the forests to secret places of arms that were used in times of war.Henneth Annun was one such place.They had decided to rest there in the night..Glondir knew the path though it was restricted to any out of Gondor.But Glondir was a descendent of the member of fellowship and so he was allowed in gondor's secret places.

They reached Henneth Annun in the evening.They prepared their beds and some elves went to prepare their food.The elves of Ithilien had given them much.Elladan and Elrohir took the prince and showed him the intricacies of Henneth Annun.They showed him the great waterfalls.There were many such waterfalls in Ithilien but the one in Henneth Annun was the most majestic of them all.It was the wonder of Gondor.

"There are but two ways out of this secret arms place.The one through which we approached and the one path which is hedged with stones like swords they are.We are going to leave by that road.It will take us to the secret door and thence to Osgiliath and we will rest there another night." said Glondir.

"Nay we will go straight to Minas tirith.No more resting.I do not think it is far to minaas tirith now.The whitecity is nearer than you think master dwarf."

"Yay,but master princemust have the strength to debate with the king of Gondor.And so he must rest the night and and ride the day.It is but two leagues to Minas tirith from Osgiliath."

"Yes but now we must give thought to rest.Let us prepare some food."

The Company having prepared the food ate it and swiftly.For Glondir purposed to reach Minas Tirith as fast as possible.He was not counting on resting nights at Osgiliath.

Morning came and the Company marched again.Through the paths they strode and many hills the climbed until they reached a door.They stood for a while.They looked westwards.They could see a great curve of The Great River.and also The White Mountains.

"Which is that river?"

"The Great River Anduin.Arises above the carrock in the far north by the misty mountains,flows down many lands through the Argonath and Rauros it comes through osgiliath and passes down south until it goes past Pelargir and joins the sea at Ethir Anduin.Those mountains are called the white mountains which we call Ered Nimrais.On the southern shoulder stands the white fortress of Minas Tirith."

Gondor O Gondor
The lands near the sea
Whenever i pass by thee
My face glows with glee

The coast is clear
With gulls
Reminding me of the sea
Gondor O Gondor
The lands of elven glee

Langstrand and Lebennin
The great green lands
Pelargir and Amroth
The place by the sea

Swans are common
Birds chirp
That is what the elven want
They clap their hands with glee

Fortress there is
that is white
Whiter than that of light
City there is
That stands amidst the great river
is the Citadel of the Stars

Gondor O Gondor
My paths npow lay towards thee
Every step i take upon the
gleeful road that my heart always beat
and now i come to thee
To save thee,to preserve thee
from evil and dark shores of the east

White and snowy the mountains tall
stand upon the walls
The beacons there are of old
That were used in war
in need in times of doubt

The lands of Anorien
The fields of Lebennin
The grey parts of Pelennor
The waterfalls of Ithilien
The isles of Andros
All are great
And within the great
The realm of Gondor

Green they stand
Brown they are
in times of spring
The west wind blows
Always the west stands
with the time
to help the Gondorin
lands

Gondor O Gondor
My paths are always laid to thee
My friends city
The great city
The realm fair and just
The rulers great and old
Elf firends of old

Thus sang Elladan.
Singing this, The Company got into the secret gates

The Secret Gates.The door was built of stone covered with green creepers.Glondir muttered a dwarven spell.The door opened and The Company marched in.There was a small path that led straight into the earth.The path was dark but after going inside the path was lit by torches.The path led deep into the earth and for many leagues it led straight neither tuening left nor right.There suddenly loomed a stone.A huge stone.On it were some runes carved.The seal of the king of Gondor was inscribed upon the stone.When they came the stone fell blocking their path.Glondir muttered another spell.The stone stood erect and let The Company pass.
They walked far underneath until they came to another stone which had to be passed the same way before.There were different spells for different stones and onl one who knew them all could reach the walls of Osgiliath.The eastern walls loomed nearer for once again the path took to open land with tres growing on the sides.They were on the nearest hillock from where east osgiliath could be seen.The path was a trough deep enough for a man to jump and die.There were holes bored into the ground to see the city.The path took underground again and passed many other stones.They were under Osgiliath.
The path then climbed underground, very deep.Stairs led them downwards.Then the path turned narrow and could only allow one at a time and was dark and there were not lit torches.But the paths were very well maintained for there were no broken slabs.The paths were made of stones made by the dwarves and men.The river flowed now above.The sound of the waters hitting the river bed could now be heard.This went on for two leagues when the riverwas at its widest.Then suddenly the Company climbed upstairs and up they went and came to the open air.Many men were moving hither and thither.They had reached the western shores of Osgiliath.

They had not smelled much of the open air since the grey morning.The Company had reached osgiliath which was just a few leagues from the white city.

"This city is called Osgiliath.Citadel of The Stars.It was the primary city of Gondor before when the days were happy.But then after darkness began to spread from Mordor, The people were shifted to minas tirith.There was a dome here on the western shows but it got ruined in the kinslaying wars.It held the main palantir of Middle Earth.It disappeared in the evil days.No one knows where it is but i guess it can now be found deep on the beds of the sea or in the great river.The city fell in ruins but it was ever the frontier of war between men and Sauron.Now are happeir days and people are returning to live both on the eastern and the western shores though the western shores are more populated.Osgiliath is under unceasing guard these days.You can see up there.Tall men with white spears wearing the lingery of Elendil.They are the City Guards they are called.This city is under the rule of the Stewards of Gondor and Elthivir descendant of Faramir rules this city and also Ithilien as far as Dagorlad.Their citadel is on the eastern shores and the bridge is rebuilt.We chose to came by the secret passages for we did not want any to see you yet prince of the west.For so you must be now under cloak.For the king himself will announce you to the people.So wear this cloak now and march forth.Do not worry of the guards.Here are elf-friends of old.When you approach the sixth gate of Minas Tirith, reveal yourself and climb the stairs.You will be allowed into the city without the passwords." said Glondir

"Well,if it must be so it must be.But Glondir,you speak as if you were not coming to minas tirith." said the prince

"I am coming.But i must instruct you as the king instructed me.You are naive to the culture and habitual tendencies of the Gondorin people.They are Numenoreans and they have weird cultures not to say adopted from the delirious elves."

"Well Glondir you should not take out the topics again.There is friendship now between elves men and dwarves and all free peoples of this free world.So do not tense yourselves." said Elladan"

"Well i apologise master elf but dwarves forget rarely and i do not warily forget that my grandfather was imprisoned in the caves of Mirkwood though it was years ago."

"Master Glondir,I think that issue was long resolved.So better do not dwell on it much longer.It will only lead to worse situations.Well master prince, Here the elves must say farewell to you.They are tired and now isnce you are safe in Gondor, I do not thin k that they should linger here much longer.Though I and Elrohir will accompany you to the white fortress for we also much desire to speak with the king of Gondor."

"It will be a sad loss, You elves have accompanied me from many leagues.It is not easy to forget and I am in your gratitude forever."

"It is a sad farewell prince but it is a necessity.We need time now to think of our departure from Middle Earth.But worry not.Maybe you will still see us in the divine valleys of Rivendell which we call Imladris." said Gilvaen one of the elves.

"Maybe and i hope so.Farewell dear elves.May we meet again under the bright sun.May not the darkness trouble and may the stars of Elbereth shine upon you.Elen sila Limenn Omentielvo."

"Namarie" said the elves and the elves marched away.

It was sad,But Elladan and Elrohir now wrapped themselves and along with Glondir and Gerold and their men marched westwards.

The Company moved westwards. They left the city of Osgiliath and were traversing the roads to the white city.Yes.The Company could see the white city clearly.Majestic it looked as it sat upon the shoulders of Mount Mindolluin. Minas Tirith. City of The Kings.

The road led through the grey fields of the Pelennor where the great battle was fought against Sauron ages ago. But many now remembered it. Since there were many sorrows and many joys that associated itself with these fields. Here it was that King Theoden of Rohan gave up his life and here also it was that the Witch King of Angmar was killed. Many people had died and many people injured but there was victory and the sound of the western trumpets held high on that day.The cities lost were recaptured but many were injured to death. Here it was when Aragorn lifted his high banner, the banner of the West, the banner of the Numenoreans, The white tree and the silver stars. Here it was that the sword of Elendil shined and drove many enemies into fear,into oblivion.

They rode fast.They had to reach Minas Tirith fast.The city had a high history.Built in the second age of middle earth to serve as a retreat from Osgiliath the primary seat of the king. High it stood and the winged crown of Gondor was held with reverence.But the seat was shifted in the dark days that followed later. Minas Anor it was called then the Tower of The Setting Sun For Minas Ithil was the Tower of the Rising Moon. When Minas Ithil was captured by the Nazgul, it was renamed Minas Morgul the Tower of Sorcery and then Minas Anor too renamed itself Minas Tirith, Tower Of Guard.

There were many cattle feeding on the grass and many farms where there were different crops feeding the people of Gondor.Ther were many yards and farm-houses upon the fields and there was a great wall that marked the boundary.There was a gate sumwhere on the northern side from where the road led to the isle of Cair Andros. Another road led to the kingdom of Rohan which passed through the forests of Anorien.

The Company reached a summit where they could descry the great gates of Minas Tirith.

"Here at last we reach your dream, Prince Azrud. The white city of Gondor. The jewel of the Numenoreans and of Middle Earth. It is the apostle of peace and King Eldathon rules this city and is the supreme king of the western lands. Here you shall dwell and live to your content prince. For this city now welcomes you to your home. So there it is as Bilbo the Hobbit said There and Back Again." said Glondir.

"That is a great quote,MAster Dwarf.And look now to the great gates.They are very strong and can repel now any attack.They are made of mithril. and cannot be broken." said Elrohir.

"Yes.Mithril.It is a wonder.We dwarves dwelled greedily for it and awoke the nameless fear.But now that it is dead, we continue to dwell in the mines of Moria and at the Aglarond."

"The nameless fear?"

"Yes.It was a Balrog of Morgoth.The one similar to that one you faced upon the mountains before the first crossing."

"That is evil. But now what?"

"Go inside the city.Look master prince.The great gates open up to the first level.There are six more such levels and at the topmost level lies the Citadel of the King.The gates are not in a straight line as you will observe.And the road is criss-cross. Well we must ride. and do not worry.Do as you are told."

The Company rode and soon it came to the Great Gates.

The Company passed through the great gates. They rode through.Glondir had to let himself up Elladan's horse. The city was built of stone at first but then since the attack of Sauron on the city years ago, but now the city was remade built of mithril and white stone which the dwarves delved in the Aglarond. The city was now stronger than before and could not be so easily destroyed. The Gate was entirely built up of mithril. The Company rode through the six levels.In all levels there were houses and shops and inns and other things of great interest.The walls and the houses were intrinsically carved. There was much space between the walls and the mountains.There were children playing and people looking out at the new arrivals through their windows.It was almost afternoon when they reached the sixth level. They had to let go the horses and climb upstairs to the last level.They climbed up.

"Now you can remove your cloak,prince of the west.Show yourself and carry yourself with pride for you are a descendant of Numenor.Now rise up to your heritage and show yourself who you rightly are." said Elrohir

The prince removed his cloak.His hair flew when the west wind struck him.He looked kingly,godly and tall.He was like an elf as well he looked like a man.He was fair as an elf but his hair was as black as a man's. The tower guards kneeled before the prince and to the elves and let them pass.On a garden place,The prince saw the White Tree of Nimloth, in full flower.The tree looked beautiful as Telperion from younger days.The prince was led into the citadel and then the door was closed.

The prince and the Company were led through the great hall.The hall was big enough to hold all the men of Middle Earth if they were assembled there. There were many chairs in the hall were atleast numbering a twenty all in silver, On those sat distinguished men. There was a silver dais leading upto a golden throne. On the chair below the dais on the left sat Orothorn the wizard and on the right sat Elthivir The Steward. Right next to Orothorn sat a grey figure. The prince did not know who he was, clad in similar fashion to Orothorn but clad in grey all over from the head to the bottom. He noticed Orothorn too but he was clad in all brown when last he saw he had worn blue.The prince was surprised.

The prince did not know who the grey figure was.The grey figure also had a grey staff.It was adorned with a jewel which shone in the lights of the hall.The light gave the hall more aura than it ever stood alone without it. The prince moved his head towards Elladan's head.

"Who is this man in grey who looks similar to the wizard we met before?"

"He is Radagast the Grey Wizard.The Grey Wizard formerly was Gandalf when Saruman was white but when Saruman fell into evil,Gandalf became the white and Radagast who was brown became grey.And now so it is with Orothorn he is now brown.We have to hear yet his story about how he reached here and how he is brown.Come.Walk now.Hold your head high."

The prince looked now to the silver dais.A person sat there with a silver crown.same as his. As the prince approached, The king got up and said
"Welcome to Gondor O mighty prince of The east.You are welcome here and now come,You are tired i guess but yet we should hear the news you bring at the earliest so that we may think so as to what to do.We have great counselors here and you shud not fear.Your words do not go out of here.Come now tell your tale so all may hear."

The prince saw the king.He was a very tall,majestic figure wearing a silver crown on his head much similar to what he had. The king was fair and handsome,his age seemed to be near thirties.He looked young and sometimes even old.His eyes were deep and black that if one could see his eyes directly,he could be lost in the depths of his eyes. Wisdom sat on his brow, even for one so young as him.Strength was in his arms. The king wore a green shirt having the symbol of the white tree and the seven stars.The king looked like an elf though he was a man gifted with long years of life. The king's hair was a combination of gold and black and his hairs were tied at the back.The king climbed down the silver dais and came to the prince and looked directly in his eyes.
"Come now.Tell your tale and let us here about this menace of the east so that all may seek counsel and prepare for war if it must be fought. Come now tell your tale. I know you are tired but the tale must be told from the first. And then you can rest. Speak."
The prince narrated his tale from the first when his city Valerna was attacked.He told the king much save the dreams that had come to him and the scrolls and the prophecies and about the inner details of Hawkeye and his men.
The king then came near the prince.
"You do not tell all my friend. I guess somewhat of what you have hidden from me.And maybe it is wise of you to keep things to your own which you wish to keep private to yourself.Well i have guessed it and i will ponder upon it. This will not go outside of my mouth.it is a king's word."
Saying this the king climbed up the silver dais.But before he did he gave the prince a knowing look.The king sat on the throne.

"Well this is an evil and grave news.I have to ponder the meaning of this message.The meeting is dismissed.There shall be a council soon.I have sent word to all who i know in this wide world." He looked to the prince,"You may go now and rest dear cousin.Quarters are prepared for you."He motioned for his servants.The prince went with them.

"Well.We all should seek counsel for this peril and we have less time. I do not know what the evil lord will attempt next. This is a complicated riddle and we must solve it. Seeing the strength of the evil lord, I doubt that the strength of Gondor will avail."
At this the grey figure got up.
"Well.All who live to see such times indeed find them as complicated riddles.No my lord,Thou shalt not falter.Prepare for war and look for allies. There are many friends and you are not alone in your fight." said Radagast.
"Yes. We elves will fight beside you with our full strength and there are the dwarves. Even the kingdom of Arnor is there beside you. And there is Rohan also. You have called a council and all will come to know the peril of the west.So you are not alone in the fight my king and dearest friend. All will fight beside you and there are many lands that will be under siege and you do not know them yet. The forests in the north holds strange things and who knows, they may yet be your allies in your wars. The evil lord is strong yes, but tell me O King, when did you hear of evil gaining a victory over the good.No my lord.The evil is going to come crushing down when the forces of the west storm upon it. Rest your doubts my lord and rest yourself." said Elrohir.

"Yes.I was wrong to despair so soon.Nah I will not despair.Gondor shall prepare for war.But always peace seem to be disturbed. When Sauron fell, it was deemed that evil was ended forever but i guess it is not so. Ever the evil rises in Middle Earth and ever the good shall fight.This land is made for war it seems and there is little time for peace. Well sons of Elrond, will you come into my chamber two hours from now.I have some counsels to take and messages to give. "
"So be it my lord. Now we wish to leave this hall and rest ourselves.We are tired from our journeys."
The king smiled,"Seldom is it heard that the elves tire.But i have no questions.Go and rest.And Glondir,you may also leave.You are sharing the prince's quarters."
The council was dismissed then.

Two hours later, Elladan and Elrohir were led into the king's chamber.The chamber had walls that shone like gold.Beautiful curtains were put up that reminded them of the sea. There was a sweet fragrance that reminded them of their home. There was a golden bed and a huge table laden with fruits and food. But the king was not there. The sons of Elrond were led through the chamber and to a great balcony that looked towards the east.The balcony was accessed by a wooden door plated with golden and silver accessories.There were silver white curtains that covered the door on either side. The servant opened the door and Elladan and Elrohir passed through it.The servant went back to the room.Fresh air from the south whistled past them. It was the air that came from the Sea. Gulls were flying at the harbor of Harlond. The call of the gulls. It was regarded as the call of the West. The elves chose not to see it unless their hearts be turned from their destiny and fate.

The king stood alone in the balcony.He looked gravely into the east.He started muttering something as if he knew the elves had already entered the balcony without seeing them.Then he said loud
"I amar prestar aen(The world is changed)
Han mathon ne naen(I feel it in the water)
Han mathon na chaen(I feel it in the earth)
A Han noston ned gwilith(I smell it in the air)
The enemy is moving in the east."

"Yes the enemy is moving. The world that once was is not the same. We all know that but we must weather the storm." said Elladan

"You know not what the enemy's move is. The forces of the enemy are moving in the east. Tens of thousands. Goblins,Orcs,Wolves,Men. They are coming."

"We do not understand O King."

"I looked yesterday into this".He held in his hand a Palantir."Thousands are approaching. The enemy moves to strike the city of Minas Tirith."

The two elves were shocked and surprised that they let it show on their faces.

"I know you are shocked by this new revelation but so it is. The host has already left the dark city. It will be here in a few months.But time passes quickly. We are ill prepared. We must now do something quick. I have already asked the commands to go to the training field and start the preparation. All the craftsmen have been asked to repair the damaged walls and houses and make them stronger to resist. Glondir has ridden away to Aglarond to warn them of the peril and the dwarven host will arrive in a few days time.At the same time Rohan also will be warned.The leaders of elves dwarves and men will arrive in two days time and on the third day, we hold a council."

"What do you want us to do,my friend and king?" asked Elrohir

"Send for aid my friend.The elven company took off from Osgiliath.You must ride north and find them and bring them here. I have sent Elthivir The Steward to Osgiliath.All our forces in Ithilien will be drawn back to the western shores.Most of the soldiers will be here in minas tirith.Scouts have been sent eastward and southward. All Gondor is now busy with preparations. The armed forces of the south may not be in time to reach us for they have been asked to look out for any attacks from the riverside.The enemy host may come from the shadowy paths or from the northward regions of Dagorlad. We do not know yet. The host left yesterday night and walks at great pace.You must go north and gather elves as they are willing.We need aid as the host is too huge for Gondor to face alone."

"We elves will fight and all will.Do not be troubled lord.You are not alone."

Elladan and Elrohir left the chamber.The king stood in his camber long gazing into the east.He had seen the peril approach in the palantir.He need to talk about this with the prince. Only the prince knew what kind of army the evil might send forth. The doom was nigh at hand. He had to do something fast.

the prince meanwhile was led into the chamber after the king asked him to rest. His room had walls silver white with golden curtains.There were round windows and there was small balcony that looked eastwards.When standing there once could view as far as the eastern boundaries of Ithilien.There was a huge golden bed and there were pillows comfortable.He would be sleeping long he guessed after tiresome journeys.The prince slept for a while. But he could not sleep.He went to the balcony and gazed till the farthest his eyes could see. He looked down as far as Osgiliath.He could see there was some activity going on there.People were moving here nd there and a company of them were coming towards the fortress.Thus he gazed for two more hours when he could sense someone entering his room.

The prince went back to the chamber inside.He saw the king himself come into his room.
"Welcome,lord.What is the reason that brings you here lord,you could have just sent word and i would have come myself."
"Nay,prince.Do not speak as though you are my servant.You are free to do as you want.You forget that you are a heir of Numenor as well.I know it and so do you.But i have a reason to come here.I need counsels."
"Counsels?"
"Yes.Counsels.You may not know this.But i got a message.The enemy of the east plans to attack this city.Minas Tirith and Gondor is under threat of war.I have pulled my forces to the western shores of the great river.I have called for aid and there will be a council on the third day from here."
Shock emanated from the prince but the prince stood tall.
"This time the enemy wont get us.He will flee from my blade."
The king laughed loudly.
"You are no doubt brave and of much strength but there is something that is closed to your eyes.The enemy hath now become very strong.He is sending out tens of thousands of goblins and orcs and wolves.This only i could see. But The enemy might send more. Gondor do not have the strength to fight such kind of a force. The aid to us may come late and we have to stay them till then.The enemy is walking fast and we have three months time to prepare and assemble."
"Three months.That is time.We have hope.Send word to Rohan,my lord.They may come fast."
"I will convey my message at the council.But come,you must know something of the enemy's moves.You have met them before and know some of their tactics in arms."

At that moment a servant came into the chamber and announced that there were some elves waiting to meet the king in the courthall.

"Ask them to wait.I will be there in a moment. Come prince.To the courtyard we go.We have much to talk."

The king and the prince climbed up to the citadel and reached the courthall.
There were some elves some twenty in number waiting for the king to come.They hd some news that was obvious.
When the king and the prince entered the court, the elves turned around.They were the same elves they had met in Cuivienen who had refused to come along with them.

The king seated himself on the throne.He motioned the prince also to sit on a chair next to him. The elven leader,he was called Thorvir, came forward.

"Hail King of the west.The doom is near.We are elves from far Cuivienen.We fled from the place since now it is defiled by evil things that ve come out of the east.Hail prince,we have met before and we should have heeded your words.The enemy is searching for you high and low over the distant lands and am glad to know that you reached here safely."

"Well do not mind that Thorvir.i spoke in good deed and i understand your affection to your homeland.But tell me clearly O leader of the elves, what made you flee the lands that you very much loved?"

"Evil things came out of the east.A huge force came upon us.We were outnumbered and fled west.Many were killed.Those that remain are here."

"It is sad to hear that the sweet land of Cuivienen is defiled and grown evil.Well such as you are,art welcome here."

At this the king interfered,
"I already do know that the host has set forth.Its main purpose is to attack the city of minas tirith as the enemy already knows that the prince has reached here.His spies are abroad both in the lands and in the sky.Your news is stale to me but it grieves me.I feel sad to hear about your land.AS the prince said,you art welcome in this city and you shall stay hereforth or go as you wish. But i request you to stay for we can fight together against the evil that draws nigh.The day has come when elves and men will stand together again in this world."

"Yes,my lord. We choose to stay.Other elves under my command are outside."

"How strong are you now,Thorvir?"

"Atleast five hundred we are.and all uinder your command O king of western lands."
Saying farewell and thanking the king, the elves went out of the curt hall.

After the elves left, The king and prince held council.

"The enemy is moving faster than i thought.We should do something.There is pretty less time and we are ill prepared. The elven brothers have left minas tirith to find and bring the elven host that left from osgiliath.So we are weakened.Glondir too has gone.We have only you with us and the army of Gondor.But it will not suffice."

.At that moment a soldier of the battalion of the tower guards came running,


"My lord,There are some creatures flying above.Huge and mighty they seem.They are flying fast and towards the city.What should we do?Shall I command the archers to shoot?"

The king looked in the eyes of the prince.The prince got up.
"Nay,soldier.Let them come."

The king and the prince walked down the hall and passed out through the door.The prince could see many birds,a thousand at least flying towards them.They were coming fast. The prince could see one bird leaving the huge company and coming towrds him.The prince recognized him instantly.He was Grisithnor chieftain of the Griffs.They had met before.

The huge creature alighted in front of them.
"Hail prince of the erstwhile east.As i told i have returned and fulfilled my word.You are also safe in minas tirith and we hold true to our word that we fight alongside you.We place ourselves under your command prince.The doom approaches nigh and the city is vain in front of it."
"I accept your company wise one. You shall fight for the west.But what thou sayeth is true. Doom approaches and we have need to weather the storm. The doom of the west has come."
The Griff turned towards the king.
"Hail King of Gondor. In my folly, i failed to honour you but i do so now. Though you are honored last but no less than the others. We are proud to fight alongside men."
The king was still awestruck.
"My Lord" said the prince.
The king woke up from his trance and said,"Though you pay me respects last, I do not have any grudges against you. We are proud and really honored by this alliance. You shall fight for the prince and in turn the numenorean realms and that of the West.You and your company shall be declared free in Gondor and elsewhere when you are noted amongst the Company."
"You are wise beyond reckoning,king of men. The doom approaches and we are exchanging pleasantries.The Griffs have offered you their claws and beaks and feet. So I wager putting them to some use"
"You do not have wait long O Grifflord.The enemy is near and closing upon us."
"So shall it begin.War is coming."

The Griff lord sought farewell and asked permission to live in the mountains above minas tirith. This the king granted in good will. The king and prince went to the brink of the piece of land that was made in the mountain when it was delved.From there they could hold view of all the eastern lands.The king pointed out osgiliath to the prince.
"There the army shall stand.Swift archers and swordsmen and some cavaliers.Elthivir will command them. We must look also the defence of the Pelennor. You see the wall around the fields prince.Yes. There i hae posted many archers of minas tirith. The others are scouting or defending the fortress walls. The gate to Cair Andros is barricaded and closed."

"What about that isle,my lord?"

"We will defend it yet.Cair Andros has its own army battalion. It is about a thousand but i will not send any more.We must look forward to help from Rohan and the dwarves."

The clouds started appearing above the mountains of shadow.
"That is no weather of the world. The enemy sends darkness ahead of its host. The Shadow approaches."

The cloud's arrival filled the city with despair.They looked as if there were huge towers that would fall down upon them as lightning.But clouds did not seem to move an inch beyond the shadow mountains.

"That is no mere clouds.They are magical things.I have faced them before."

"You have.yes you have.Maybe you can tame it for us." said one small looking creature who had come up from behind.

"Who are you?And tame it.You take this as a kind of joke or something?The very cloud and air is evil."

"AS for me who i am..." He stopped and went running round and round the white tree.
The king was amused but he kind of knew him and what he was doing.