The Fellowship of the Ring
(J.R.R Tolkien)

Prologue

The prologue is split into four sections: Concerning Hobbits, Concerning Pipe-weed, Of the Ordering of the Shire, and Of the Finding of the Ring. All are interesting, but the two that are most relevant to the story are Concerning Hobbits and Of the Finding of the Ring.

Concerning gives a basic rundown of the race of the hobbits. Put briefly they are an ancient race, unknown to most of Middle-Earth out of the sheer virtue of being incredibly unobtrusive. While they have fought for their own safety in the past, they are generally uninterested in the greater dealings of the world and unacquainted with conflict. Over time, this disinterest grew into an active aversion toward the dealings of “big people.” Part of the reason for their obscurity is the fact that they go out of their way to avoid other races, something that their small stature and natural skill at stealth aids in.

Of the Finding of the Ring is a useful section if you haven’t read The Hobbit, which takes place before The Lord of the Rings. This section briefly recounts the adventures of Bilbo Baggins who, in The Hobbit, stole the titular One Ring from the creature Gollum. The book takes particular care to point out how Bilbo lied to his friends about how about he obtained the Ring and how this dishonesty was disturbing to Gandalf. Bilbo had been the picture of honesty up to this point.

Book One

Chapter One

A Long Expected Party

This chapter is framed around the long awaited celebration of Bilbo Baggins one hundred and eleventh birthday.

When the chapter begins preparations have been going on for a time, as well as rumors. Bilbo returned from his adventures (as detailed in The Hobbit and the Prologue) with a fortune, and, as his party comes together, there is much speculation as to the depth of his fortune. There is also speculation as to how well “preserved” Bilbo is. It has been almost sixty years since his adventure and by most accounts Bilbo hasn’t aged a day.

The wizard Gandalf journeys to Bilbo’s home in the Shire, bring with him a payload of fireworks for the birthday party. After his arrival, he and Bilbo discuss the forthcoming events. Bilbo, in fact, intends to leave the Shire following the party, leaving his home and belongings to his nephew Frodo. Only Bilbo, Frodo and Gandalf are aware of this plan when the party, a more extravagant affair then anything else ever seen in the Shire, begins.

At the end of his birthday party, Bilbo gathers together a select group of relatives and friends for a special feast. As this meal draws to a close he rises to make a speech, a tradition amongst hobbits. Over the course of the speech, he slips in several jabs and insults at the expense of his guests. Just as his guests are seething at him, he closes the speech with a bang. He disappears with a flash of light provided by Gandalf, leaving the party members in shock.

Bilbo returns to his home, Bag End, and removes the Ring that he stole from Gollum. Again visible, he makes the final preparations for his departure. Gandalf appears as he does this and begins to question him as to his intentions for the Ring. Bilbo had initially intended to leave it to Frodo along with his other belongings, but as the moment to do so draws near he is suddenly resistant. Gandalf expresses concern over its origins and the power it might now have over Bilbo. Growing angry, Bilbo argues that it’s his “Precious” and Gandalf has no right to tell him what to do. Gandalf manages to talk Bilbo down, however, and convinces the hobbit to leave the Ring as he intended. Bilbo leaves shortly after.

Frodo returns to Bag End and speaks to Gandalf momentarily. Gandalf warns him not to put on the Ring. The next day Frodo deals with the matter of handing out gifts left by Bilbo for townsfolk, relatives and friends. After this has ended, Gandalf returns once more to Bag End to speak with him. Gandalf, seeming disturbed by something, again warns Frodo not to put on the Ring. “Keep it secret. Keep it safe.” He says before departing to research its true nature and origins.

Chapter Two

The Shadow of the Past

While Bilbo’s departure leaves the Shire talking for a good while after its occurrence (a year and a day to be exact), the goings on amongst the hobbits soon return to normalcy. As years pass Bilbo becomes a figure of legend amongst the hobbits. Frodo in turn inherits his reputation for oddity along with Bilbo’s wealth and home.

Years pass and Gandalf’s visits become less frequent. Stories start reaching the Shire of trouble abroad. Elves are being more frequently sighted at night in the Shire, passing through on their way to the seas and their ancestral homes. More troubling is news of dark powers on the rise in the lands to the southeast. Orcs are beginning to multiply, troll sightings becoming more common and rumors of a rising power in the distant and evil land of Mordor reach as far as the peaceful Shire.

After a nine year, absence Gandalf finally returns to the Shire to speak with Frodo. He explains that he has been investigating Frodo’s Ring and has returned to test some of his suspicions. Magic rings he explains are often very dangerous, possessing a power often corrupts mortal creatures. He suspected Bilbo’s slow aging and out of character behavior in matters of the Ring might be a result of his prolonged exposure to its power.

His suspicion and concern runs deeper, however, and wishing to test the Ring he asks Frodo to give it to him for a moment. When tries to hand him the Ring he notes that it suddenly feels heavier than usual and that he feels slightly reluctant to give it to Gandalf. Gandalf, taking the Ring, promptly throws it in the lit fireplace. When they retrieve the Ring it starts to glow with ancient Elvish lettering that confirms that Gandalf translates: “One Ring to rule them all, One Ring to find them,

One Ring to bring the all and in the darkness bind them.”

The verse confirms Gandalf’s worst fears. This is the One Ring, made by the dark lord Sauron. Frodo asks how such a thing could have come to the Shire, and Gandalf relates the history of the Ring as well as some of the events currently occurring the wider world.

The Ring itself was forged by Sauron as a means to amplify his power and control the other magic rings of the world. Sauron was defeated when the Ring was cut from his hand by Isildur who took it for his own and subsequently lost it when he was ambushed and killed by Orcs. It was then picked up Deagol who was then murdered by his friend Smeagol who would later become known as Gollum.

Frodo recognizes the name Gollum from the stories of Bilbo’s adventures. Gandalf confirms it is the same creature and that much of his time was spent tracking Gollum down so that he might find out what he knows about the Ring. Gollum he says, has already told Sauron’s minions about the Shire and the name of Baggins. Frodo curses that Bilbo didn’t kill Gollum when he had the chance, prompting Gandalf to scold him.

“My heart tells me that he has some part to play yet, for good or ill, before the end,” Says Gandalf. “The pity of Bilbo may rule the fates of many- yours not least.” Gollum he explains has been left in the prisons of the Elves of Mirkwood.

Sauron, aware of the vague whereabouts of the Ring has dispatched his minions to recover it. Frodo, scared by the very thought of the evil now pursuing him, tries to give the Ring to Gandalf. Gandalf refuses, claiming that its power would corrupt him and in turn create another Dark Lord. The only option, in his opinion, is that the Ring must be brought to Mordor itself and cast into Mount Doom where it was made, and the only place where it can be destroyed.

As the chapter comes to its close Frodo and Gandalf discovers that Sam Gamgee, Frodo’s gardener has been eavesdropping on their conversation. It is decided that Frodo must leave the Shire and bring the Ring to the Elvish city of Rivendell, with Sam accompanying him.

Chapter Three

Three is Company

After the decision is made for him to leave the Shire, Frodo begins preparations for his journey to Rivendell. He sells Bag End and buys a house in Crickhollow, using the move as a pretense for his departure. As the date for his leaving approaches, however, Gandalf leaves to get news of what’s going on outside the Shire. He instructs Frodo to leave as planned even if he doesn’t return by the scheduled date. He also warns Frodo one more time to not use the Ring under any circumstances and to go by the name of Underhill instead of Baggins.

As the date draws closer, and Gandalf fails to return Frodo grows more anxious but decides to leave any ways. Choosing to make his way to Buckland by foot he leaves with Sam Gamgee and his friend Pippin Took. As he’s leaving town, however, he hears Sam’s father, the Gaffer, arguing with someone. The stranger it seems is asking after Frodo, and the Gaffer refuses to answer his questions. Frodo takes this to be mere nosiness on the part of a neighbor, but still feels uneasy about it.

Frodo, Sam and Pippin finally depart and begin making there way across the Shire. The first few days of their trip are fairly uneventful. As they make there way down the road, however, they hear the sudden sound of horse hooves on the road. Feeling uneasy, Frodo and his companions hide off the side of the road. Frodo, peaking out from their hiding place, sees a large figure wrapped in thick black cloaks and riding a black horse. As the Black Rider draws near to their hiding place it dismounts, and seems to start sniffing the area. Frodo believes it to be searching after him and feeling overwhelmed with fear is tempted to put on the Ring. The Rider leaves, however, before he can give in to the urge.

Now concerned about the presence of the Black Rider, the hobbits decide to continue their journey off of the road. As night draws near, they encounter another one. The hobbits hide again, but the Black Rider still almost finds them. The only thing that saves them is the sudden appearance of a group of Elves. The Rider flees from the elves who greet the hobbits. Their leader, Gildor, is disturbed to hear of the Black Riders pursuing them and offers the hobbits a safe refuge with them for the night. The hobbits accept and follow the Elves to a safe spot in the woods.

After Sam and Pippin fall asleep, Frodo asks Gildor about the Black Riders. Gildor tells him that they are servants of Sauron and that they should be avoided at all costs. “Flee them” He says. “Speak no words to them. They are deadly.” He tells Frodo that if he is to have any chance of success he must surround himself with trustworthy companions. The chapter ends with Frodo falling asleep under the protection of the elves.

Chapter Four

A Short Cut to Mushrooms

Frodo wakes up to find the Elves gone and his friends already awake. Frodo, disturbed by the prior day’s events, questions whether it is right to bring his friends along with him into certain danger. He questions Sam on the matter and finds his companion to be stalwart in his devotion to the journey. The hobbits finish breakfast and decide to start on toward the Buckleberry Ferry.

Still wishing to stay off the road Frodo decides they will continue through the woods. This does them little good. They encounter another Black Rider and just barely manage to make it into a hiding place before it can spot them. Pressing on to escape the Rider they soon suspect they may be lost. They emerge from the forest into the field of Farmer Maggot. Frodo, terrified from the Farmer’s dogs from a young age, isn’t pleased but the trio decides to call upon the Farmer’s hospitality any ways.

They make their way to the farmhouse and find Maggot who welcomes them but is somewhat taken aback by Frodo’s presence. A stranger, he explains, had just come looking for a Baggins. From the Farmer’s description, they know it to be another Black Rider. The Rider offered Farmer Maggot gold for information as to Frodo’s location, which the farmer refused.

Frodo is disturbed by the Farmer’s tale and decides they should leave at once to continue toward the Buckleberry Ferry. Farmer Maggot offers them a wagon ride to shorten the trip and then treats them to dinner. Once the meal is done the hobbits load up into Maggot’s carriage and start again toward the Ferry. As they near the Ferry, they hear the sound of horse hooves clapping against the road. Frodo hides in the wagon, but they soon discover the rider is just Frodo’s friend Merry, who had gone on ahead to ready Frodo’s new house. The hobbits bid Farmer Maggot farewell and board the Ferry.

Chapter Five

A Conspiracy Unmasked

The Hobbits, now including Merry in their party, cross the Buckleberry Ferry. As they reach the other side they spot a figure, cloaked in black on the opposite shore watching them. Unable to cross the water, the Black Rider scampers off and the Hobbits make their way to Frodo’s new house. They arrive and are greeted by Frodo’s friend Fatty Bolger had been helping Merry prepare the house for Frodo’s arrival. After some bathing and a bit of dinner Frodo, Sam and Pippin relate the story of their journey thus far.

It is as this point that Merry, Pippin and Fatty reveal that they’ve known all along that that Frodo’s move to Crickhollow is just a ruse and that he has a further journey planned. They also reveal that they know of the Ring; Merry witnessed Bilbo using it to disappear years before and had suspected Frodo’s quest had to do with it.

Frodo is initially upset to discover his plans were so easily discovered, and is further disgruntled when Merry and Pippin express their desire to join him and Sam on their journey. Frodo doesn’t like the idea of putting his friends in harms way but Sam, having overheard Frodo’s conversation with the Elf leader Gildor reminds Frodo of the his advice. “Gildor said you should them as willing, and you can’t deny it.”

Remembering Gildor’s words Frodo agrees to the new companions. Fatty Bolger, it’s decided, will stay at Frodo’s new home and impersonate him to try and keep their leaving a secret as long as possible. Not wanting to risk discovery, Frodo decides their group should avoid the main road and head through the Old Forest. Fatty objects to the idea; citing the forest as being even more dangerous then the Black Riders, but both Frodo and Merry and have been in there before and feel confident they can pass through safely.

Chapter Six

The Old Forest

In the morning Frodo, Sam, Merry and Pippin leave Frodo’s house in Crickhollow and make for the Old Forest riding ponies. Upon entering the forest, there is an immediate feeling of unease felt amongst the four Hobbits. Merry details some of the legends surrounding the forest. The trees within it, he says, aren’t your run of the mill trees. They’re sentient to an extent and dislike the presence of outsiders within the forest. Few have the power to openly attack someone but they can enact minor acts of mischief. He warns his friends to be on the lookout for unseen roots they might trip over and branches that fall suddenly an inexplicably.

More worrisome perhaps, he tells them that forest often plays tricks with the path that runs through it. The trees can apparently shift position, concealing the true path through the wood and creating new ones to misguide travelers trying to pass through. The Hobbits soon find this is precisely what happens to them. As soon as they find the path it disappears and as the day goes on it seems to be leading them away from their destination. When they try to head off the path while keeping toward the right direction, the trees shift so that they become all but impassible. Realizing the hopelessness of the situation they decide to stick to the path no matter where it leads them, rather then wandering about futilely.

The path eventually leads them to a giant Willow Tree. As they reach the Willow Tree the Hobbits begin to feel mysteriously sleepy, especially for the time of day. Frodo, Merry and Pippin all give in to the feeling, lying down in various spots around the willow tree. Sam, however, is suspicious and resists. He leaves to gather up their ponies but returns when he hears a loud splash.

Sam returns to find Merry and Pippin missing and Frodo in the water, trapped beneath one of the Willow Tree’s roots. Sam frees Frodo from the root and Frodo, having nearly drowned, insists that the tree itself threw him into the water. Sam objects to the idea, but he and Frodo soon discover that Merry and Pippin are missing. They circle the tree to find a pair of cracks in its trunk. One is closed tight, while from the other they find Merry sticking out of the tree from the waste down. They try to free Merry, but their efforts are futile. They consider setting fire to the Willow Tree to coax it into releasing their friends, but the tree reacts violently to the very suggestion.

All hope seems lost when suddenly Frodo and Sam hear the sound of distant singing. Out of nowhere a man appears singing and rhyming joyfully. The man names himself to be Tom Bombadil. Frodo and Sam beg him for his help, and upon hearing what the Willow Tree is doing he runs forward. He whispers something into the tree inaudibly and the Willow promptly spits out Merry and Pippin, to the relief of the Hobbits.

Having rescued the Hobbits Tom invites them to stay the night at his house and promptly leads them there.

Chapter Seven

In the House of Tom Bombadil

Tom and the Hobbits arrive at his home. The Hobbits are taken aback for a moment when they realize that Tom’s house is located near the Barrow-Downs, a place known far and wide for its danger and evil. They are greeted by Tom’s wife, Goldberry. The Hobbits are at once enraptured with her beauty. Goldberry, amused by their admiration, sets to the task of making them comfortable while Tom takes care of their ponies. Tom returns and invites the Hobbits to dinner. He leads them to their room where they bath and clean themselves up before rejoining Tom and Goldberry for a meal.

As they eat, Goldberry tells them to enjoy a night of rest and have no fear of any danger. “Heed no nightly noises!” She says. “For nothing passes door and window hear save moonlight and starlight and the wind off the hill-top!” Frodo asks Tom if his rescue was a coincidence or Tom heard their misfortune and came to help. Tom says it was just a coincidence and that he had been out picking lilies for Goldberry and just chanced upon them. Frodo inquires after the Willow Tree, but Tom refuses to discuss it at night. “Some things are ill to hear when the world is in shadow.”

The Hobbits, exhausted from the day, head for their beds. As they sleep Frodo, Merry and Pippin all have bad dreams. Merry and Pippin have nightmares about willow trees and flooding water. Frodo’s, on the other hand, is more distinct and mysterious. He dreams of a tower built at the center of plain. From below the tower come wolf cries and evil voices. On the top of the tower, is a lone, trapped figure wielding a staff. His staff begins to glow and a giant eagle swoops down to rescue him. Each of the three dreaming Hobbits wakes in a start but remembers Tom and Goldberry’s assurance of safety and fall back to sleep. Sam sleeps soundly without any trouble.

In the morning, the Hobbits join Tom for breakfast where he tells them stories. Chief among these are tales of the Old Forest and the Barrow Downs. The Old Forest he explains is indeed an ancient forest made up of trees older then many of the races that populate Middle-Earth. The trees within the forest hate walking folk due to their destructive nature and utilitarian attitude toward trees. The Willow Tree is most dangerous amongst them, powerful and rotten with hatred.

The Barrow Downs in turn are tombs of ancient kings corrupted by dark powers. The Barrows are rich with ancient treasures but also very dangerous and serve as the home of the sinister Barrow-wights. Tom warns the Hobbits to stay clear of them.

During the course of his stories, Frodo asks repeatedly who Tom is. Tom’s replies are generally coy they do learn a few snippets of information. Tom describes himself as being older than everything. “Tom was here before the river and the trees; Tom remembers the first raindrop and the first acorn. He made paths before the Big people and saw the little People arriving. He was here before the Kings and the graves and the Barrow-wights.”

He also knows of Frodo’s quest and the Ring and asks to see it. Frodo gives it to him, and to his dismay the Ring has no effect on Tom when he puts it on. When Tom returns it, Frodo tries it on to make sure it’s the same Ring. It is and he disappears. Tom is still able to see him in this state.

After the storytelling, Goldberry invites the Hobbits to join them in a final dinner before they depart. As the Hobbits eat tells them to avoid the Barrow Downs and teaches them a riddle to recite should come into trouble. If they speak it within range of his power he will come and help them again. After dinner, the Hobbits return to their room for a final rest before their journey continues.

Chapter Eight

Fog on the Barrow-Downs

In the morning the Hobbits, led by Tom Bombadil, leave the Old Forest. They emerge in the Brandywine valley with the hills of the Barrow-Downs rising to their east. Making sure to avoid the Barrow-Downs the Hobbits make there way toward a hollow at the valley’s center. When the reach the hollow the find a single tall stone. The Hobbits find it curious, but are hungry and tired from the day’s journey and decide to eat and rest.

While resting all four Hobbits nod off and fall asleep. They waken to find the hollow and the stone surrounded by a thick fog through which the sun can barely be seen. While they’re alarmed at first, they resolve to continue. Saddling up their ponies they head into the fog in a single file line in what they believe to be the right direction. The going is slow but after a time Frodo, in the lead, sees what he thinks to be the north-gate leading out of the Barrow-Downs.

Frodo urges his companions on but soon discovers that what he thought was the north-gate was actually one of the Downs. His pony, sensing the evil of the Down tosses him. Falling to the ground he rises to discover that Sam, Merry and Pippin have vanished and that he’s now alone in the fog. Calling to his friends he hears a faint plea help in the fog. Chasing after the voice he is unable to find his friends. Suddenly Frodo sees a dark figure standing above him: a Barrow-Wight. The Wight touches him and Frodo faints.

Frodo awakes to find himself laying in darkness atop a slab of stone. He soon realizes that he’s being held prisoner inside one of the Barrows. Slowly, a low greenish glow begins to light the innards of the Barrow. Turning to the side he sees Sam, Merry and Pippin all unconscious and laying on stone slabs identical to his own with swords lying at their sides. Out of the darkness a hand begins to reach toward Sam. For a moment, Frodo is beyond terror and almost contemplates leaving his friends to save himself. Again, faced with danger, he struggled with the urge to put on the Ring.

Gathering his courage though, he grabs the sword at the side of his slab and attacks the arm. Frodo hacks off its hand and the arm the retreats. Frodo, now remembering the rhyme taught to them by Tom recites it. Almost immediately he hears the voice of Tom Bombadil making its way toward the Barrow. At the end of the Barrow, the wall slides opening, revealing Tom Bombadil. Tom, driving the Barrow-Wight away, pulls the Hobbits out.

Leaving Frodo to tend to Sam, Merry and Pippin, Tom returns to the Barrow and starts pulling out treasure. The Hobbits, free of the Wight’s power, begin to wake. Tom instructs them to rest for a time while he gathers their ponies back. He soon returns with their ponies as well as his own, named Fatty Lumpkin. Tom then retrieves four swords from the treasures of the Barrow and gives them to the Hobbits.

With their ponies returned and newly armed, Tom leads the Hobbits away from the Barrow-Downs. After they reach the road, Tom turns back to return to the Old Forest. He offers the Hobbits a final piece of advice, directing them to the village of Bree where they’ll find an inn called The Prancing Pony owned by a man named Barliman Butterbur. With that Tom Bombadil departs and the Hobbits continue on their way.

Chapter Nine

At the Sign of The Prancing Pony

It’s already dark when Frodo, Sam, Merry and Pippin reach the town of Bree. They’re questioned briefly by the gate keeper who is suspicious of four Hobbits from the Shire travelling after nightfall, but admits them into the town any ways. The Hobbits don’t see it, but a Black Rider sneaks over the gate after they pass through.

They shortly come to The Prancing Pony and upon entering meet the innkeeper, a very busy, Mr. Butterbur. The sight of Hobbits seems to remind of something, but he isn’t able to recall the memory and lets it drop. Butterbur asks for Frodo’s name. Frodo, remembering Gandalf’s advice, names himself Mr. Underhill. Butterbur admits the Hobbits and sends his helper, Nob to take care of their ponies. Butterbur shows them to their room. The Hobbits, tired from the day’s journey, take some time to bath and rest. Butterbur and Nob soon return with food and to invite the Hobbits to common-room.

The Hobbits decide to take them up on the offer and head the common-room. They find it filled to the brim with an assortment of people. Many are from Bree itself, including a party of Hobbits, but there is another large group of Men travelling up the Greenway from the South. Frodo and his companions quickly take up with the Bree Hobbits while the other guests discuss the bad tidings of the South.

While the chat, Frodo notices a man sitting in the corner of the common-room, smoking a pipe and listening to the Hobbits talk. Frodo asks Butterbur about him. Butterbur tells Frodo that he’s a Ranger, and that while little is known of his true identity, the people of Bree refer to him as Strider. Butterbur is drawn off by another errand and Frodo soon finds that Strider is now watching him in particular. Strider gestures to Frodo, who joins him in his corner.

Strider introduces himself and confirms that Frodo’s name is “Mr. Underhill.” Frodo reluctantly validates this. Strider then warns Frodo that he should be careful of how much his friends drink and say. Strider’s gaze shifts toward Pippin who Frodo now hears relating the story of Bilbo’s farewell birthday party. Anxious that Pippin might forget himself and mention the Ring Frodo, urged on by Strider, tries to draw attention away from Pippin.

He jumps on the table of the common-room and begins to sing and dance. While he’s embarrassed by his own spectacle, Frodo’s ploy works. The drinking party is soon enraptured with his song. When he finishes they demand an encore, which he obliges. This time, however, he trips in the middle of his song and falls off the table. Everyone in the room thinks his hilarious until Frodo disappears. He’d been handling it in his pocket when he fell, and it slipped onto his finger.

The common-room now in an uproar, Frodo flees back to Strider’s corner where he takes off the Ring. Strider is visibly annoyed by Frodo’s antics and though Frodo tries to deny any knowledge of what just happened Strider seems to know than he let on about, including Frodo’s real name. He asks Frodo if they might speak in private later. Frodo agrees and then tries to calm the drinking party, claiming that he didn’t disappear at all and merely crawled underneath the tables over to Strider.

The other guests and customers are unconvinced, prompting many to leave or return to their rooms. Butterbur, disgruntled over the lost business, berates Frodo. Frodo apologize and Butterbur again seems reminded of something in relation to Frodo and his companions. He asks if he too can speak with Frodo privately later. Frodo agrees, but feels nervous about the meetings.

Chapter Ten

Strider

Frodo, Sam and Pippin return to their room only to discover that Merry is gone and that Strider has followed them. Strider almost immediately offers his help in guiding them to Rivendell. Frodo is reluctant and insists on learning more about him. This pleases Strider, still concerned over the potential consequences of Frodo’s mistake in the common-room, but happy to see the Hobbits exercising some caution.

Strider explains that he had been looking for a Hobbit by the name of Frodo Baggins and, spying on them as they approached Bree, heard them use the name. He also claims to be aware of the nature of Frodo’s quest and warns them that there are Black Riders in Bree. Frodo, having not seen any or felt their presence, suggests that they might have left already. Strider is quick to rebuff this and tells them that even if the Black Riders have departed, there are spies in Bree that would surely tell them of Frodo’s magical disappearance in the common-room. He points to Bill Ferny, a man of ill repute and present in the common-room at the time of Frodo’s accident, as a likely candidate.

Strider offers himself as a guide for a second time. Sam doesn’t trust him and objects. Strider tries to calm his fears, showing him that he is only armed with a broken sword. Frodo seems ready to accept the offer when Mr. Butterbur knocks on the door of their room. Stride hides in a shadowy corner and Frodo admits Butterbur into the room. Butterbur says that he’s finally remembered what the Hobbits had reminded him of earlier in the evening. Gandalf, apparently a friend of Butterbur, had stayed in the inn three months before. He was drawn off on urgent business but asked to Butterbur to keep an eye out for a Hobbit travelling by the name of Underhill. He also left a letter that he was supposed to forward to Frodo but forgot to do.

Butterbur also reveals that two of the Black Riders had stopped by the Prancing Pony earlier in the week looking for Frodo. Strider, stepping out the shadows joins the conversation and reveals to Butterbur that the Black Riders are agents of Mordor. The inn keeper is horrified but is also strengthened in his resolve to help Frodo reach Rivendell. The group suddenly remembers that Merry isn’t present and surmise that he might have left the inn to go for a walk. Butterbur sends Nob out to find him while Frodo reads Gandalf’s letter.

In the letter, Gandalf warns Frodo to leave the Shire before the end of July and to keep watch for a friend by the name of Strider. He warns to be sure that it’s the real Strider and that his true name is Aragorn. Frodo is annoyed that the letter didn’t reach them sooner and that they left the Shire so late. Strider confirms that him name is in fact Aragorn, earning Frodo’s and Pippin’s trust while Sam remains suspicious.

Having shrugged off Frodo’s suspicions, Aragorn begins helping them plan for their departure from Bree. Frodo questions him as to his knowledge of Gandalf’s whereabouts to which Aragorn can only reply with concern,

“I am troubled,” He says. “For the first time since I have known him.”

As this is happening Merry returns bringing news of Black Riders. The entire group is thrown into alarm while Merry details his encounter. He saw the Black Rider near Bill Ferny’s house. This confirms Aragorn’s suspicions about Ferny being a spy and fills him with concern that Black Riders, now informed of the earlier events at the inn may make a move in the night. He forbids the Hobbits from sleeping in their rooms and joins them as they wait out the remainder of night.

Chapter Eleven

A Knife in the Dark

Back at Frodo’s house in Crickhollow, Fatty Bolger is filled with dread. Peeking out the front door, he sees what appears to be a shadow passing through the gate of the fence surrounding the house. Recognizing this as a Black Rider locks the door and retreats into the house. Shortly after someone knocks on the door demanding that he “Open, in the name of Mordor.” Fatty, recognizing his impending doom, flees out the back door as the Black Riders break through the doors. Hearing sounds of violence, an alarm is raised in the surrounding lands of Buckland.

In Bree, Frodo and his companions wake up and venture into the bedrooms that they left vacant the night previous. They find that the windows were forced and the beds slashed apart. Butterbur, shocked by the violence, heads out to ready their ponies. He returns to inform them that the ponies and every other horse in his stable had been set loose the night before. Per Frodo’s request, Butterbur sends Nob out to see if any replacements could be found. Nob returns with poor results. There is only one sickly pony available and it’s owned by Bill Ferny. Butterbur, offers to buy it for them and they continue their preparations.

The Hobbits, led by Aragorn, soon leave Bree. For a short time they keep to the road to avoid suspicion, but Aragorn shortly leads them off the road and into the woods. His plan is to lead them to Weathertop, a landmark on the way to Rivendell where they might be able to get a better view of the surrounding wilderness and where Gandalf might think to find them.

One night, on the way, Frodo and Aragorn see flashes of white light in the direction of Weathertop. Concerned, but knowing their origin, Aragorn leads them on through several days of hard marching over rough terrain. On the fifth day they catch their first sight of Weathertop and after a few more days traveling they reach Weathertop. Climbing to the peak of the hill they find that Gandalf isn’t there as they had hoped. There are signs of battle. Aragorn suspects the flashes they saw earlier might have been Gandalf fighting off some of the Black Riders and that he was likely forced to flee to Rivendell.

The group begins to discuss the continuation of their journey when Frodo spots black figures moving toward Weathertop. Knowing them to be the Black Riders the group deliberates on what to do next. Aragorn is convinced that the Riders won’t attack until after dark, but fears that any attempts to flee might just make them easier targets. Deciding to stay, the group begins collecting wood to make a fire which should help fend off the Riders.

Night falls and the group keeps near the fire for safety. This does them little good. Shortly after nightfall, the Dark Riders attack in force. The Hobbits are almost all subdued by fear alone. Aragorn fights to defend them, but Frodo, filled with fear is overtaken by a terrible urge to put on the Ring. This time, he gives in, slipping the Ring on his finger.

Wearing the Ring he finds that he’s able to see the Riders in their true form. They look like grey kings and are drawn to Frodo more keenly now that he’s wearing the Ring. One of them pulls out a knife and approaches Frodo. Frodo, in a final act of desperate defense, hits its foot with his sword. It shrieks in pain and in retaliation, stabs him with its knife.

Chapter Twelve

Flight to the Ford

Frodo awakes the Black Riders have withdrawn. He and his friends have survived but Aragorn is incredibly concerned over the wound Frodo took from the Black Rider that stabbed him. The knife that Frodo was stabbed with was enchanted with evil magic that will slowly transform Frodo into a wraith like the Riders themselves if they can’t find proper healing. He will then fall under the Rider’s power and they’ll be able to call him –with the Ring- to them at their convenience.

Aragorn attempts to use his own remedies to slow the transformation, but it’s clear that Frodo’s only hope is to reach Elrond, the elf-lord of Rivendell. That in mind, Aragorn leads Frodo and the other Hobbits on toward Rivendell with a much speed and stealth as they can manage.

After several days of travel they come upon what at first appears to be a group of Trolls. While the Hobbits are initially startled by the discovery, they soon discover that the Trolls have been turned to stone. Frodo quickly recalls a story of Bilbo’s own journey decades ago where he encountered a trio of Trolls who spent so much time arguing over the way to properly eat himself and his companions that the sun rose and turned them to stone. This memory and the memory of Bilbo cheers them, but it’s short-lived and they must continue.

Later that same day, their path leads them back to the main road which they had up until then been avoiding. Aragorn keeps them off to the side and hidden. Suddenly, they begin to hear the sounds of horse steps on the road. At first, they fear it’s a Black Rider but soon realize that the step of this horse sounds different from the horses ridden by the Riders. Staying hidden they wait and watch until the rider, an Elf, begins to move past. Frodo, beginning to succumb to his transformations sees the Elf as the Riders would, as a shape of white light. Aragorn recognizes him as Glorfindel, a High Elf of Rivendell. He calls to Glorfindel who joins them. Glorfindel tells them that there have been Elves searching for them from Rivendell and after examining Frodo’s wounds sets him atop his horse and urges on.

With Glorfindel guiding them they travel onward toward Rivendell. After a few more days of travel they near the crossing of the Brandywine River. Just prior to crossing they are ambushed by the Black Riders. At Glorfindel’s command, his horse flees with Frodo. The Riders, ignoring the rest of the company, chase Frodo across the river. Frodo’s horse pauses near the top of the opposite bank. Frodo pulls out his sword and orders the Riders away.

“Go back!” He says. “Go back to the Land of Mordor, and follow me no more!”

“Come back!” The Riders reply. “To Mordor we will take you!”

The Riders begin to cross the river toward Frodo when suddenly the river begins to flood. A wall of rushing water comes crashing toward them, swallowing the Black Riders and nearly taking Frodo with them.

Book Two

Chapter One

Many Meetings

Frodo awakens to find that he’s in Rivendell, in the House of Elrond. Gandalf, with Sam often at his side, has been watching over Frodo while he recovered with the help of Elrond. The wound he took from Black Rider had left a splinter of the evil knife in him which had pro-longed and worsened the wound. Frodo asks about the fate of his travelling companions.

Gandalf tells him that they all arrived safe to Rivendell. When the Black Riders attacked they followed them to the river and readied a fire to help combat the Riders should any turn back against them. The flooding that took down the Black Riders was done by Elrond, who holds power over the river. The Black Rider’s defeat was only temporary but they were scattered and weakened, taking them out of the picture for a time at least.

Frodo inquire as to why Gandalf failed to meet them as they’d planned. Gandalf merely says that he was delayed but won’t offer more details. There has been a council called by Elrond to decide the fate of the Ring where he will share more details.

A feast is held to which Frodo and the other Hobbits are invited. It’s also attended by a slew of other people. Frodo sees Arwen, the daughter of Elrond and speaks at length with Gloin, one of the dwarves that accompanied Bilbo on the adventure that originally brought the Ring to the Shire.

After the feast Frodo is led to the Hall of Fire where the Elves of Rivendell perform songs and recite poetry. Here Frodo is delighted to find Bilbo who he had been unaware was in Rivendell. Bilbo is working on a song for the singers of Hall. He’s stuck on a verse, but with the aid of Aragorn he finishes it. From Bilbo, Frodo learns that Aragorn is of the ancient men of Numenor. After Bilbo’s song is sung Bilbo asks Frodo if they can go somewhere to talk. As they leave the Hall of Fire, Frodo notices Aragorn standing next to Arwen, dressed in Elvish armor and looking rather kingly.

Frodo goes with Bilbo back to his room where they share small news of the Shire until Frodo leaves with Sam to rest before the Council is held the next day.

Chapter Two

The Council of Elrond

The next day the Council called by Elrond assembles. It includes many people of the various races from the various corners of Middle-Earth. After introducing Frodo the Council begins sharing news of dark tidings from around the world.

Most principally, Gloin, whom Frodo had met the day before at the feast, tells of a messenger from Mordor that visited the town of Dain near his kingdom. The messenger came asking for information about a Hobbit that Sauron suspected of stealing a “trifle that Sauron fancies.” In exchange for the help of the Dwarves, the messenger offered their help in reclaiming the underground city of Moria that the Dwarves had previously sent an expedition to without news of result. Unsure of what to do, Gloin travelled to Rivendell for Elrond’s advice. Elrond assures Gloin that he will learn all he needs to and decides to tell the tale of the Ring that Sauron was pursuing in the Shire and in Gloin’s kingdom.

Thousands of years prior Sauron created the Ring of Power and with its strength launched his original assault on the Middle-Earth. An alliance of Elves and Men marched on Mordor and did battle with him to great loss, but Sauron was nonetheless defeated. Isildur, son of the King of Gondor, used his father’s broken sword Narsil to cut the Ring off Sauron’s finger, taking away much of his power with him. Rather than destroying the Ring however in the nearby fires of Mount Doom, Isildur kept it for himself. Shortly after, Isildur was killed and the Ring was lost. After the war, many of the kingdoms of Men were diminished from their losses. Only Gondor grew for a time, though it to began to diminish.

At this point Boromir, a visitor from Gondor interjects. Though Mordor is still a distant threat to many of the other kingdoms and races, Gondor is already contending with its strength and suffering under the burden. Boromir, a son of Gondor’s Steward, had a dream about the broken sword Narsil and the Ring and came seeking Elrond’s counsel in its interpretation. Aragorn rises and reveals that his broken sword is in fact the remnants Narsil. Boromir asks who he is and why he should possess such a relic. Elrond reveals that Aragorn is in fact a descendent of Isildur and in turn the heir to vacant throne of Gondor. Aragorn asks Boromir if he would like him to return to Gondor. Boromir admits that the sword would be an aid but holds obvious doubts about Aragon himself.

Boromir asks how they know that the ring carried by Frodo is in fact the Ring. Per Elrond’s request, Bilbo relates the details of how he took the Ring from Gollum. Frodo in turn tells the Council about his flight from the Shire, the pursuit of the Black Riders and his experiences with the Ring itself. After finishing his story, Frodo reiterates his desire to know what happened to Gandalf during the events of their trip.

Gandalf agrees to tell the story. After years of research and pursuing Gollum As he broaches upon the subject of Gollum and his imprisonment by the Elves of Mirkwood however, Legalos, a messenger from Mirkwood interrupts and tells them that Gollum, aided by Orcs, has escaped from them. Gandalf is disturbed by this but continues his story.

In the last months before Frodo was set to depart from the Shire, Gandalf left to gather more news of the goings-on around Middle Earth. During his travels however he encountered Radagast the Brown, a member of the White Council of wizards of which Gandalf is a part. Radagast had actually been looking for Gandalf with a message from Saruman the White, the leader of the White Council. Per Saruman’s request, Gandalf made his way to Orthanc at Isengard, home to the White Council but not before asking Radagast to relay messages to the animals and birds over which Radagast held influence, to bring news of world events to Gandalf and Saruman.

Gandalf made his way to Orthanc, but upon arising at the entrance to Isengard found himself overcome with an inexplicable sense of fear. Ignoring the feeling, Gandalf continued to the tower of Orthanc where he found Saruman wearing a magic ring and wearing a multi-colored cloak in place of his traditional white. Saruman shortly reveals that he’s chosen to align himself with Sauron and asks Gandalf to join him and help him find the Ring. Gandalf promptly refused, in turn leading to his imprisonment atop the tower of Orthanc.

Radagast, despite being a messenger of Saruman, was no traitor however and did as Gandalf asked. Word spread amongst the animals of Middle-Earth and one night a Gwaihir, a great-eagle came to visit Gandalf bearing news. Instead of just delivering news, Gwaihir helped Gandalf escape on his back. Gwaihir set him down in nearby Rohan. Gandalf then made his way to the nearby capital of Edoras where he found the country’s king unwilling to listen to any warnings about Mordor and willing to offer only a horse as aid. Gandalf chose Shadowfax, the king’s most prized horse, and headed for the Shire.

Finding that Frodo had already left, he headed for Bree where Butterbur informed him that the Hobbits had already departed with Aragorn. After leaving Bree, Gandalf headed to Weathertop, arriving several days before Aragorn and the Hobbits. He soon found himself under assault by the Black Riders however and again had to flee. Hoping to draw the Riders off of Frodo and the Ring he headed for Rivendell. When he arrived, he set Shadowfax free and then did what he could to help the Ring arrive safely.

The Council is disturbed to hear of Saruman’s betrayal. Some question if they might not call on Tom Bombadil for aid as Frodo and his companions did in the Old Forest, or at least leave the Ring with him there, but the notions are quickly dispelled. Bombadil would have no power outside of his own boundaries and even he wouldn’t be able to stand against Sauron’s power when it eventually reached him.

Without that as an option and the various Races of the world too weak to contest Sauron by force of arms. Boromir suggests using the Ring against Sauron themselves. The others present quickly shoot this down. Any attempts to use the Ring, even by the very powerful, would lead only to their corruption by its power. Boromir dislikes their unwillingness to try, but doesn’t push the subject further.

The only option, it’s decided, is to destroy the Ring by throwing it into the fires of Mount Doom. Bilbo immediately offers to take it, but is declined. He has spent too much time with the Ring already for it to be safe. With the group seemingly at a loss, Frodo steps forward and offers to take it to Mordor. Elrond, seeming to expect this, praises Frodo’s courage and accepts. He tells Frodo that he won’t have to go alone however. As if on cue, Sam steps out of his hiding place and offers to go with Frodo.

Chapter Three

The Ring Goes South

Several months pass as preparations and information are gathered to aid in Frodo’s journey to Mordor. As winter nears Elrond finally summons Frodo, Sam, Merry and Pippin to him to discuss the quest. The company that’s to accompany Frodo will have nine members. Sam is immediately given a spot as one of Frodo’s companions. The others will include Legolas from Mirkwood and Gimli, a Dwarf and Gloin’s son. Aragorn offers himself as another companion, though not a permanent one. He eventually intends to accompany Boromir with the reforged sword Narsil back to Gondor to aid in the war effort. But for a time their paths will coincide and Frodo will have both his and Boromir’s aid for a long leg of the journey. Gandalf will also be coming to lead the party.

Elrond tells Frodo that he has yet to decide on the last two spots of the company, prompting Merry and Pippin to offer themselves for the openings. Elrond is skeptical at first and suggests that they return to the Shire to warn of the coming danger but Gandalf convinces him to let them go and the matter is decided.

On the morning of their last day in Rivendell Bilbo gives Frodo a pair of gifts. The first is Sting, an Elvish dagger that Bilbo found on his own journey. It glows blue when Orcs are near. The second is a mail shirt made of Mithril, a metal beyond value that will also provide Frodo with unrivaled protection should he be attacked. Frodo puts it on to find it weighs almost nothing at all. Bilbo asks him to keep the Mithril Coat a secret, if only for fun.

The group finally sets out at the end of December, making their way toward the mountains. They bring little with them save supplies, Bill the pony to carry them, and a few items for defense. Aragorn brings with him and the reforged Narsil, now called Anduril and Boromir brings his war horn.

For a time their travel is uneventful. One night however, as Sam and Aragorn are keeping watch they spot what appears to be a cloud moving toward them against the wind. Recognizing what it is, Aragorn has them hide. A flock of crows serving as spies for Sauron flies overhead. After they pass by Aragorn wakes Gandalf and tells him about the crows.

Seeking a path less likely to be watched by spies, Gandalf and Aragorn decide to try passing over the mountain Caradrhas. As the company climbs, they find the weather seems amplified beyond a normal winter. The mountain, possessing a mind of its own and no great love for creatures that walk, has set itself against them. For a time they press on through the bitter cold but the snow and wind eventually becomes too much for them to push through with any hope of survival. Though there aren’t many other paths left that they can safely follow, they retreat down the mountain.

Chapter Four

A Journey in the Dark

The group sets up camp to rest. Having failed to climb Caradrhas the party must choose a new way to go. Boromir wants to head for the Gap of Rohan. The Gap skirts along the borders of Isengard however, putting them within striking distance of Saruman and his forces. Gandalf wants to attempt passing through the mines of Moria. Gimli, eager to learn the fate of the Dwarves that went there agrees, but Aragorn is reluctant to enter there. It’s a place overrun by evils. Eventually, they leave the decision to Frodo who chooses Moria.

Suddenly they’re attacked by a group of Wargs, giant wolves in the service of Mordor. Sticking close to their campfire the company defends itself from the attacking Wargs. After the attack has ended the group rests for the remainder of the night. When dawn rises they find that the bodies of the dead Wargs are already gone. Wasting no time, the group sets off toward Moria, travelling the entirety of the day to its entrance.

They reach the entrance to Moria just as night falls. When they arrive however there is no entryway apparent, just a lake that had not been there at Gandalf’s last visit to the place. They find the doorway between a pair of holly trees. Written on it in Elvish are the words “Speak friend and enter.” Gandalf takes to mean you must speak a password before the door will enter, but cannot remember the password. For a time Gandalf mulls about trying to figure out the password. After several attempts however, he and the group are growing frustrated and they begin to hear the sounds of more Wargs in the distance.

Suddenly, Gandalf realizes that the password is just the Elvish word for friend and that the words on the door weren’t a riddle, but rather, step-by-step instruction on how to get the door to open. He says the word and the door slides open. As the group enters the caverns however, the waters of the lake begin to move and a tentacle shoots out to grab Frodo’s leg. Bill the Pony runs off in fear and though Sam is desperate to chase after him he chooses to save Frodo. Cutting at the lake monster’s tentacle, he manages to get Frodo free and pulls him out of the water. The two flee into the caverns. Gandalf seals the door shut and outside they can hear the lake monster tearing the area up and blocking the door with debris. They have no choice but to press forward through Moria.

The innards of Moria are pitch black, the only light being Gandalf’s staff from which he emits a pale glow. With Gandalf leading the way they start through the mines. The pathways of the mine are dangerous, broken up by drops and forks in the road. As they press forward, Frodo is convinced that he can hear the sound of soft footsteps following behind them but when he looks back he sees nothing but the dark. The

After many long hours of walking through the caverns, Gandalf halts the group so they can take time to regain their bearings. There’s an ancient well nearby. Pippin, drawn by curiosity, drops a stone down the well. The sound of the stone striking the level below draws some scolding from Gandalf. In the depths below they hear a sudden string of booming sounds like the strike of a hammer. Gandalf lets the company rest while he decides which way to go. After several hours of sleep, Gandalf awakens his companions and tells them that up until now they’ve been moving downward into the depths of the mines that it would best now to start ascending to higher levels. He directs to a path leading upward and their journey continues. They come to a massive hall lined by Dwarf fashioned pillars. Gandalf decides they should rest there again until morning. Before they fall asleep Gimli tells them of the downfall of the Dwarves of Moria. They dug too deeply in search of the ore to fashion Mithril and in the process let loose an evil power that destroyed them. On that happy thought the companions, save Gandalf, fall asleep. They wake in the morning to find that light from outside has filled the hall. Pressing forward they enter a connecting room and discover it to the tomb of Balin the Dwarf. The expedition the Dwarves sent to retake Moria failed.

Chapter Five

The Bridge of Khazad-Dum

In the tomb of Balin they find a book chronicling the failed efforts of Balin and the Dwarves to reclaim Moria. For several years they enjoyed success, but eventually a force of Orcs mounted an assault against them and their forces were overrun.

After reading the book Gandalf decides to lead them back out into the hall and continue through the mines. As they make for the back into the great hall however they hear a loud booming accompanying the sound of scurrying feet. A war horn fills the hall. They’re about to be attacked by Orcs.

Barring the door into the great hall they prepare to meet the Orc’s assault, leaving a side door open to escape through when they can’t hold out anymore. The Orcs break through the door and charge into the room. The defenders meet them, pushing back the initial assault. Seeing an opportunity, Gandalf orders the company to retreat. The group makes for the side door. Before they can reach it however, an Orc Chieftain breaks through and stabs Frodo. Aragorn kills the Orc and the companions are shocked to find that Frodo is alive despite the attack.

Fleeing through the side door the companions make there way into the adjoining tunnel while Gandalf seals the door shut behind them. As they flee into the caverns below they see flashes of white light behind them. The boom of the Orc war drums continues, growing more intense in response to Gandalf’s spells before coming to a sudden stop. Gandalf comes running down the tunnel after them and urges them on.

As the company descends lower the tunnels start to grow hot. Gimli asks Gandalf what happened while he was sealing the door shut behind him. Gandalf isn’t certain. The Orcs were pressing against the door when something else that even the Orcs were afraid of entered the room. When the unknown creature attacked the door, its spell nearly broke Gandalf’s strength. The battle caused a cave-in in Balin’s tomb, blocking the door and allowing Gandalf to retreat.

The group presses on into the lower levels of Moria. They find the lower mines are burning and filled with fire. With nowhere else to go the group presses forward. Up ahead they see a narrow bridge leading to the exit. Orcs begin to pour in along the sides of the tunnel and up behind them, firing arrows and chasing after them. Suddenly from behind the Orcs comes the creature that Gandalf contended with earlier. Legolas cries out in fear. The monster is a Balrog, an evil of the ancient world. Seeing it, Gandalf urges the others on while he remains at the bridge to fight the Balrog.

The Balrog nears the bridge. Gandalf orders it away –“You cannot pass!”- but it continues forward, moving in to attack. It strikes at Gandalf, pushing him back, but he deflects the blow. The Balrog steps forward onto the bridge. Seeing Gandalf’s plight, the rest of the company charges in to help. Before they can though, Gandalf smashes the bridge with a spell. The Balrog falls into the pit below, but at the last second drags Gandalf down with it. With Gandalf gone Aragorn orders the company on toward the exit. Fighting against their grief, the eight remaining members of the fellowship push on toward the light of outdoors. They make it outside to find the day bright and continue running away from Moria.

Chapter Six

Lothlorien

The party continues on, fleeing away from Moria. Fearing the Orcs will pursue them they run for a long while until exhaustion forces them to stop. Aragorn checks them for wounds, tending to a deep cut Sam took from an Orc. Despite Frodo’s objections Aragorn insists on looking at the spot where the Orc Chief stabbed him. Aragorn and the rest of the party are amazed to find the Mithril Coat Bilbo gave him.

After tending to their wounds and resting, Aragorn leads them on. Night falls and Frodo is convinced he can see eyes following them in the dark. He tells the others but they see nothing and the party continues on. After a time, they come to the borders of Lothlorien, a forest land that’s home to Elves.

Legolas is delighted that they’ve come to the forest. Gimli and Boromir aren’t as happy. Lothlorien is a place of mystery and peril in the eyes of their people and though Legolas and Aragorn are full of reassurances, neither is convinced.

The company pushes further into the lands of Lothlorien, crossing the river Nimrodel. As night nears it becomes clear that they’ll need to find refuge in case they’re attacked. With nowhere to hide, they resolve to climb up into the Mellorn trees of Lothlorien. Legolas starts to climb up a nearby tree to see if it could suit their needs. No sooner does he scale the tree that an Elvish voice calls down to them from the trees. Legolas drops back down and warns them not to move. The Elves of Lothlorien have found them. Legolas spends a moment conversing with them in their own tongue and then tells the company that they’re in no danger and have been watching them group for awhile now.

The Elves ask Legolas to bring Frodo up with him into the tree. The Elves drop a ladder down from the tree. Legolas and Frodo climb up to the platform, called a flet, above where they find three other Elves. The leader of these Elves, Haldir, explains that Elrond sent messengers to inform the Elves of Lothlorien of their quest. The company is invited to rest with them in the trees for the night, but the Elves are taken aback when they’re told that Gimli is a Dwarf.

“They are not permitted in our land.” Says Haldir. “I cannot allow him to pass.”

Frodo speaks on Gimli’s behalf, mentioning the fact that Elrond selected Gimli for the quest himself. Haldir is swayed into allowing the Dwarf access to Lothlorien but insists that Gimli be blindfolded on his way through the forest.

The company spends the night concealed in flets in the trees. The night is uneventful for the most part, but at one point Frodo wakes to the sound of something sniffing and scratching at the base of his tree. Looking down he sees only two pale eyes staring up at him. The creature runs off and Haldir rejoins Frodo in the flet. He tells Frodo that a strong party of Orcs was passing nearby and so they dared not shoot lest they alert them to their presence. Haldir also confirms that the creature that’s been following them was not an Orc.

In the morning the Elves lead the group deeper into the forest. When they try to blindfold Gimli he objects. Seeing his anger and discomfort at the prospect Aragorn decides they should all be blindfolded. Legolas is loath to miss an opportunity to see the trees of Lothlorien but complies for the good of the group.

The group spends the bulk of the day being led through the woods by the Elves. Though blindfolded their guides lead them with such skill that none of them stumble or fall. They eventually come upon a large party of Elves, leaving to guard against the Orcs that passed through the woods the night prior. The Elves inform them that the leaders of Lothlorien, the Lord and Lady Galadhrim, have granted them free access to their lands and that the blindfolds can be removed.

When Frodo’s blindfold is removed he’s awed by what he sees. The lands of Lothlorien seem to him like a living legend out of a story. Soon they can see a settlement amidst the trees. Having travelled much of the day Haldir allows them to rest for a time before pressing on into the city.

Chapter Seven

The Mirror of Galadriel

After resting for a time the group, led by Haldir continues. They arrive at the settlement which Haldir calls Caras Galadhon, home to the Elf lord Celeborn and the Lady Galadriel of Lorien. Advancing into the city, much of it built in flets amongst the trees, Haldir leads them to the largest of all the trees. When they arrive they find the tree guarded by a trio of Elves and that a ladder hangs down its length.

“Here dwell Celeborn and Galadriel,” Says Haldir. “It is your wish that you should ascend and speak with them.

They want to see Frodo first. Haldir leads him up the tree. At the top he comes to a large flet holding an entire house filled with Elves. Sitting at the head of these Elves are Galadriel and Celeborn. Galadriel is radiantly beautiful but says nothing. She just stares at Frodo. Celeborn however welcomes him to their land and bids him to sit down while the rest of his companions arrive.

One by one the members of fellowship arrive and are greeted by Celeborn while Galadriel watches. When Gimli arrives Celeborn greets him warmly. “May it be a sign that though the world is now dark, better days are at hand and that friendship shall be renewed between our people.”

When he finishes greeting the present group Celeborn asks after Gandalf. The messengers from Rivendell had told him the wizard would be with the group and he cannot fathom why he wouldn’t be present. The Elves are shocked when Aragorn tells them that Gandalf was killed by the Balrog in Moria. Celeborn in shock, curses the Dwarves for trying to retake Moria.

“Had I known that the Dwarves had stirred this evil in Moria again, I would have forbidden you to pass the northern borders!” Celeborn declares.

Galadriel, finally speaking, calms Celeborn and scolds him for being so harsh with Gimli.

“If our folk had been exiled long and far from Lothlorien, who of the Galadhrim, even Celeborn the Wise, would not pass nigh and wish to look upon their ancient home?” She says. Gimli is stirred to wonder by her defense bows to her and proclaims that she Lothlorien are the loveliest things in the entire world. Celeborn apologizes for his anger.

Galadriel turns to the subject of their quest. As Galadriel talks she turn her gaze on each of the company in turn. Save for Aragorn and Legolas, each member of the company finds her stare to be strangely discomforting. After a time however, she stops and bids them to forget their cares for a time and rest within the safety of Lothlorien.

The Elves set up a pavilion for the group who immediately starts talking of Galadriel. Sam says that it felt as though she were reading him that he could hear her asking in his mind what he would do if he had the chance now to return to his home. Merry says that his experience was similar. The rest of the group expresses much of the same. Boromir pushes Frodo to talk of his own experience. Frodo doesn’t want to speak of it however and Boromir still doesn’t trust Galadriel and her magic. Aragorn begs him to be careful of what he says of her.

The group rests for several days in Lothlorien. The Elves, saddened by Gandalf’s death, sing songs of him and his exploits. The group in turn, having not had the time and the safety to properly mourn him, begins to feel the brunt of their grief.

One night Sam and Frodo are walking together. Suddenly they meet Galadriel who bids them to join her. She leads them to a silver basin that she fills water. Once it’s filled she asks them if they’d liked to look into the “Mirror of Galadriel.” Frodo asks what they’ll see. Her response is vague, “What you will see, if you leave the Mirror free to work, I cannot tell. For it shows things that were, and things that are, and things that yet may be.”

She asks Sam if he’d like to look. He agrees, saying he’d like a “glimpse of home” if it could be managed. The Mirror complies, but to Sam’s horror it shows him the Shire being destroyed. Trees are being cut down, the Old Mill is destroyed and his father, the Gaffer, has been thrown out of his home. Distraught by the images, Galadriel reminds him that the Mirror shows that may not have yet happened. Sam is still upset however and wishes that he had never come. When given the choice between staying with the group and going home however, he resolves to stay with Frodo and see the quest through.

Galadriel offers Frodo another chance to look in the Mirror. He agrees this time and steps up to it. The Mirror shows him shifting images. First he sees what he takes to be Gandalf, then Bilbo. He sees images of the past and battles of legend. Then the image within of the Mirror turns black and he sees nothing except a single eye, rimmed in fire staring back at him. The Ring, worn on a chain on his neck, begins to feel heavy and dangles toward the water.

“Do not touch the water!” Galadriel warns. She explains that the eye belong to Sauron who is ever searching for him. She explains that she read into his mind, though Sauron cannot do the same. “The door is still closed.” She lifts up her hand and reveals that she wears her own ring, named Nenya, whose power maintain Lothlorien and save it from changing as the rest of the world has. When Frodo destroys the Ring however, Nenya will lose its power and Lothlorien will cease to be.

Frodo offers Galadriel the Ring. She is clearly tempted by the offer and as she deliberates what to do, Frodo sees an image of her as a terrible queen, corrupted by the evil of the Ring. Galadriel resist the temptation however. “I pass the test,” She says. I will diminish.”

Galadriel tells them that in the morning they must depart Lothlorien and continue with their quest. Frodo asks her why he cannot read the minds of those around him as she can with her ring. She says that he has only worn the Ring a few times and simply hasn’t tried. She points out however that there are changes in him. He saw the eye of Sauron where others wouldn’t have. He also sees her ring Nenya, where Sam could only see something resembling a star. Sam tells her that he wishes she’d taken the Ring as she’d use it to set things right. Galadriel says it would start that way, but under its influence she wouldn’t be able to stop at that.

Chapter Eight

Farewell to Lothlorien

That night Galadriel and Celeborn gather the members of the fellowship together for a final meeting before they depart from Lothlorien. Celeborn tells them that it is time for them to leave, but offers safe haven within Lothlorien to any who wish to remain. Resolved to continue, none in the company accept the offer. Boromir intends to break with the fellowship when they near Gondor, but will remain with them until then.

Celeborn asks if any of the others intend to join him. Aragorn’s original intention had been to make his way to Gondor, but with Gandalf gone he is unsure as to where he should go and is reluctant to leave Frodo. Boromir again reiterates his desire for the entire company, the Ring included, to journey to Gondor. Celeborn, hoping to speed their journey, gifts them with the boats so they might travel the river near Lothlorien. He stresses however that this won’t carry them all the way.

“In the end you must leave them and the River, and turn west- or east.” With that Celeborn and Galadriel bid the company good night and leave them to rest before the morning’s new travels.

The companions are unable to sleep however. They sit in their pavilion for a time discussing the decisions to come. Boromir makes his intentions to head for Minas Tirith in Gondor clear, but also tries to convince the others to come with him. “If you wish only to destroy the Ring.” He says. “Then there is little use in war and weapons.” Their skills would be better put to defending Gondor from the coming war with Mordor. Though he dodges saying it openly, it’s clear he still wants to use the Ring as a weapon against Sauron.

In the morning the Elves of Lothlorien bring them fresh supplies. In addition to the boats they give the companions Elvish cloaks that will help them blend in with their surroundings. They also give them Lembas, a special food that will keep and fill them when no other food can be found. They also give Sam lengths of Elvish rope.

The Elves help the company acquaint themselves with their boats and then push them off into the river to depart. No sooner have they left that they’re met by Celeborn and Galadriel on the river in a boat shaped like a swan.

“We have come to bid our last farewell,” Says Galadriel. “And to speed you with blessings from our land.”

The company joins Celeborn and Galadriel back on the shore for a final feast. While they eat Celeborn gives them directions, telling Boromir the best way to reach Minas Tirith. When the feast is finished Galadriel presents each member of the company with a gift. To Aragorn she gives a sheath for his sword Anduril, telling him that no sword drawn from the sheath will ever break. She asks him if there is anything he wants. “Lady, you know all my desire, and long held in keeping the only treasure that I seek.” He replies. “Yet it is not yours to give me, even if you would; and only through darkness shall I come to it.”

“Maybe this will lighten your heart.” She says, drawing out a silver brooch. “This stone I gave to Celebrian my daughter, and she to hers; and now it comes to you as a token of hope.” She gives Aragorn the brooch which he pins to his chest. The group marvels for a moment at how kingly he suddenly seems and then Galadriel continues with her gift giving.

To Boromir she gives a belt of gold. Merry and Pippin are given similar silver belts, each with a clasp like a flower of gold. Legolas is given a longbow of the style that the Lothlorien elves use, along with a quiver full of arrows. To Sam she gives a small box filled with soil from Lothlorien. She tells him that sprinkling it into his garden will grant it growth beyond any other in the Shire.

When she comes to Gimli she has no gift. “What gift would a Dwarf ask of the Elves?”

“None, Lady,” replies Gimli. “It is enough for me to have seen the Lady of Galadhrim, and to have heard her gentle words.”

The Elves are taken aback by his words of affection. Galadriel, pleased by Gimli’s compliment, pushes him to choose any gift that he might desire. He asks for a single strand of her hair that he can set in crystal and pass on as an heirloom to his descendents. The Elves are again, shocked, by his affection but Galadriel grants the request and gives him three hairs.

Coming to Frodo, Galadriel presents him with a crystal phial. “In this phial is caught the light of Arundel’s star. It will shine brighter when the night is about you.”

With the gifts given the company finally departs. They are all saddened by this leaving but Gimli weeps openly. His previous distrust has been replaced by a deep love of Lothlorien and the Elves. Fighting away their sadness, the company ventures down the river.

Chapter Nine

The Great River

For several days the company rows down the river unscathed. There is no sign of Orcs or any of the other servants of Mordor. The only change came in the landscape which grows more desolate the further they get. At one point a group of swans flies overhead. “Black swans,” Aragorn notes.

With nothing to do as they drift through the water the company’s minds wander. Gimli is still mourning his departure from Lothlorien while Legolas imagined himself in happier places filled with life. Boromir on the other hand seems to grow increasingly agitated as the closer they get to Gondor. His gaze often shifts to Frodo, and possesses a hunger that hadn’t been present there before.

Sam, previously scared of boats, still dislikes them but finds himself growing at least used to being in one. As dark falls on their fourth day after leaving Lothlorien Sam thinks he sees something following them in the river. Passing it off as a dream, he tells Frodo that he saw what liked a log with eyes. Frodo tells Sam that he has seen a similar set of eyes on several occasions throughout their journey and that Haldir also saw them on their way into Lothlorien. Sam wonders if it might be Gollum. Frodo shares the same fear and both agree to be more attentive as the night presses on.

As the night presses on they can hear Gollum paddling along the river. Gollum makes for their boat so Frodo pulls out his sword Sting. This alerts Aragorn who had been sleeping, “Why have you drawn your sword?” Frodo tells him about Gollum and discovers that Aragorn had long been aware of Gollum’s presence and has tried to catch him on several occasions during their journey with no success. Disturbed by Gollum’s increasing boldness he decides to increase their pace the next day hoping to leave Gollum behind.

The next day Aragorn tells the company of Gollum’s presence and they put their plan into action. As they speed forward however they start to enter the river’s rapids. At first they push through them, but as night falls and the rapids fail to abate they decide it’s too dangerous to continue and that they need pull ashore.

As they’re doing this though they fall under a sudden attack by a party of Orcs. Arrows begin to fall on the boats, the companions barely evading the volleys. Setting down his paddle, Legolas takes hold of the bow he was given in Lothlorien. As he does this a dark shape fills the sky above, blotting out the very moon. Legolas takes aim and fires on it. His arrow strikes its target and brings it down. The Orcs, shocked by this resistance and the fall of the creature, flee allowing the company to make it to shore.

The group rests for the night and then heads back into the water, daring the rapids. After a time on the water they come to a pair of giant stone statues, one on each side of the river. “Behold the Argonauth, the pillars of kings.” Says Aragorn. The company passes between them and continues down the river toward the next portion of the quest.

Chapter Ten

The Breaking of the Fellowship

Aragorn leads the boats ashore so the party can rest for the night. As the night wears on Aragorn awakes from sleep however and asks Frodo to draw his sword. Frodo pulls Sting his sheath and is startled to see it faintly glowing. There are Orcs coming. They aren’t close yet but will be upon them in time.

When day rises the company comes to a point of decision. Will they continue toward Mordor to destroy the Ring? Will they follow Boromir to Gondor? Or will they each go their own way? All eyes turn to Frodo, waiting to see what he will do. Unable to make a quick decision, he asks his companions to give him an hour alone to think it over. Aragorn grants him that but tells him to stay close.

Frodo heads off into the woods by himself and finds that the biggest obstacle isn’t indecisiveness, but rather fear. He knows the Ring must be destroyed, but is scared to go to Mordor and unwilling to ask his friends to go with him. As he considers this quandary he senses the presence of another. Boromir has followed him into the woods on the pretense of worry. He quickly asks Frodo though if he might put his own word in on what to do with the Ring.

Frodo already knows his answer but Boromir presses the issue. He asks Frodo if he can see the Ring. Boromir continues to push for the Ring to go to Gondor. “Minas Tirith will fall, if the Ring lasts. But why, if it were with us?”

Frodo reminds him of the warning of the Council at Rivendell which just irritates Boromir further. “Gandalf, Elrond- all these folk have taught you to say so. For themselves they may be right.” He says. “Often I doubt if they are wise and not merely timid.” He refuses to accept that he or his people would be corrupted and begins to openly suggest using the Ring against Sauron. “It is mad not to use it, to use the power of the enemy against him. What could not a warrior do in this hour, a great leader? What could not Aragorn do? Or if he refuses, why not Boromir? The Ring would give me power of Command. How I would drive the hosts of Mordor, and all men would flock to my banner!”

It becomes clear that Boromir has been corrupted by the Ring. Frodo refuses Boromir’s request to bring the Ring to Gondor. When he tries to leave however, Boromir attacks him in a rage. Frodo panics and puts on the Ring. Boromir is shocked to see the Hobbit disappear and begins to rant and rave against him. Suddenly, Boromir trips over a stone and falling to the ground snaps out of his madness. Overtaken by grief for his actions he calls after Frodo who is still fleeing while wearing the Ring.

Frodo runs for a time before setting down to ponder his next action. As he does this however he feels the dark presence of Sauron’s Eye searching for him. It senses the Ring’s power and is looking for its user. Slowly the Eye draws ever closer, honing in on Frodo’s location. Frodo wants to take the Ring off but finds it difficult. Finally, as the last possible moment nears he manages to pull it off of his finger. The power of the dark lord having shaken him, he resolves to travel to Mordor alone and keep his friends out of harms way. He puts the Ring on once more to avoid being found and heads down toward the boats.

Back at the river side the others are contemplating their own course of actions. Aragorn is unsure of what to do, not wanting to abandon Frodo but also torn by his desire to aid Gondor in its war against Mordor. Legolas and Gimli vote to go to Gondor. Aragorn thinks it unnecessary for everyone to go to Mordor and suggest that Sam, Gimli and himself should accompany Frodo while the rest make for Minas Tirith. Suddenly the group realizes that Boromir is gone.

No sooner do they discover his absence that he returns reporting that Frodo is missing. He says that he tried to convince Frodo to go Minas Tirith and that the Frodo vanished using the power of the Ring. Aragorn suspects more foul play but Boromir won’t talk of it further. Merry and Pippin immediately rush off into the woods to find Frodo. Aragorn orders Boromir after them for their safety. He then takes Sam and springs off into the woods to find Frodo himself.

As they run, Sam suddenly realizes that Frodo was running away from Boromir but rather was trying to escape them all and go to Mordor by himself. Sam turns back and runs for the boats. He arrives just in time to see a boat, seemingly without a passenger, slipping into the water. Knowing it to contain Frodo he jumps after, splashing into the water. Frodo removes the Ring and pulls Sam into the boat to keep him from drowning.

Sam questions Frodo on what he was doing and is shocked when he learns that Frodo intended to head to Mordor without him. Sam insists on coming, despite Frodo’s objections. “I’m coming with you or neither of us isn’t going. I’ll knock holes in all the boats first.”

Frodo grudgingly agrees to Sam accompanying him. They return to shore to collect Sam’s pack and then head back out in the boat to cross the river and make their way into Mordor.