The Fellowship of the Ring

NARRATOR (VO): The world is changed. I feel it in the water. I feel it in the earth. I smell it in the air. Much that once was... ...is lost. For none now live who remember it. It began with the forging of the Great Rings. Three were given to the Elves.: Immortal, wisest and fairest of all beings. Seven to the Dwarf-lords.: Great miners and craftsmen of the mountain halls. And nine... ...nine rings were gifted to the race of Men... ...who, above all else, desire power. For within these rings was bound the strength and will to govern each race. But they were all of them deceived. For another ring was made. In the land of Mordor, in the fires of Mount Doom... ...the Dark Lord Sauron forged in secret a Master Ring... ...to control all others. And into this Ring he poured his cruelty, his malice... ...and his will to dominate all life. One Ring to rule them all. One by one... ...the Free Lands of Middle-earth fell to the power of the Ring. But there were some who resisted. A Last Alliance of Men and Elves marched against the armies of Mordor. And on the slopes of Mount Doom, they fought for the freedom of Middle-earth. Victory was near. But the power of the Ring... ...could not be undone. It was in this moment... ...when all hope had faded... ...that Isildur, son of the king, took up his father's sword. Sauron, the enemy of the Free Peoples of Middle-earth, was defeated. The Ring passed to Isildur... ...who had this one chance to destroy evil forever. But the hearts of Men... ...are easily corrupted. And the Ring of Power has a will of its own. It betrayed Isildur to his death. And some things that should not have been forgotten... ...were lost. History became legend... ...legend became myth. And for two and a half thousand years... ...the Ring passed out of all knowledge. Until, when chance came... ...it ensnared a new bearer.

GOLLUM (VO) My precious.

The Ring came to the creature Gollum... ...who took it deep into the tunnels of the Misty Mountains. And there it consumed him.

GOLLUM (VO) It came to me. My own. My love. My own. My precious.

NARRATOR (VO) The Ring brought to Gollum unnatural long life. For 500 years it poisoned his mind. And in the gloom of Gollum's cave, it waited. Darkness crept back into the forests of the world. Rumor grew of a shadow in the East... ...whispers of a nameless fear. And the Ring of Power perceived... ...its time had now come. It abandoned Gollum. But something happened then the Ring did not intend. It was picked up by the most unlikely creature imaginable.

BILBO (VO) What's this?

NARRATOR (VO) A Hobbit. Bilbo Baggins of the Shire. A ring.

GOLLUM (VO) Lost! My precious is lost!

NARRATOR (VO) For the time will soon come... ...when Hobbits will shape the fortunes of all.

NARRATOR (VO) The Shire...60 years later

CHOIR (VO) Down from the door where it began And I must follow if I can The road goes ever on and on Down from the door where it began Nowfar ahead the road has gone -And I must follow if I can -You're late. A wizard is never late, Frodo Baggins. Nor is he early. He arrives precisely when he means to. It's wonderful to see you, Gandalf! You didn't think I'd miss your Uncle Bilbo's birthday? What news of the outside world? Tell me everything. Everything? You're far too eager and curious for a Hobbit. Most unnatural. Well, what can I tell you? Life in the wide world goes on much as it has this past Age. Full of its own comings and goings. Scarcely aware of the existence of Hobbits. For which I am very thankful. It's Gandalf! The long-expected party. How is the old rascal? I hear it's going to be a party of special magnificence. You know Bilbo. He's got the whole place in an uproar. Well, that should please him. -Half the Shire's been invited. -Gracious me. -He's up to something. -Oh, really? All right, then. Keep your secrets. Before you came along, we Bagginses were very well thought of. Indeed. Never had any adventures or did anything unexpected. If you're referring to the incident with the dragon, I was barely involved. All I did was give your uncle a little nudge out of the door. Whatever you did, you've been officially labeled a disturber of the peace. Oh, really? Gandalf! Gandalf! Fireworks, Gandalf! -Gandalf! -Fireworks, Gandalf! Gandalf? -I'm glad you're back. -So am l, dear boy. So am I. No, thank you! We don't want any more visitors, well-wishers or distant relations! And what about very old friends? Gandalf? -Bilbo Baggins. -My dear Gandalf! Good to see you. 111 years old! Who would believe it? You haven't aged a day. Come on, come in! Welcome, welcome. Oh, here we are. Tea? Or maybe something a little stronger? I've got a few bottles of the Old Winyard left. 1296. Very good year. Almost as old as I am. It was laid down by my father. What say we open one, eh? Just tea, thank you. I was expecting you sometime last week. Not that it matters. You come and go as you please. Always have and always will. You caught me a bit unprepared. We've only got cold chicken and a bit of pickle.... There's some cheese here. No, that won't do. We've got raspberry jam, an apple tart.... But not much for afters. Oh, no, we're all right. I've just found some sponge cake. I could make you some eggs if you'd-- -Just tea, thank you. -Oh, right. -You don't mind if I eat, do you? -No, not at all. Bilbo! Bilbo Baggins! I'm not at home! I've got to get away from these confounded relatives, hanging on the bell all day... ...never giving me a moment's peace. I want to see mountains again. Mountains, Gandalf! And then find somewhere quiet where I can finish my book. Oh, tea. -So you mean to go through with your plan? -Yes, yes. It's all in hand. All the arrangements are made. Oh, thank you. Frodo suspects something. Of course he does. He's a Baggins... ...not some blockheaded Bracegirdle from Hardbottle. You will tell him, won't you? -Yes, yes. -He's very fond of you. I know. He'd probably come with me if I asked him. I think in his heart, Frodo's still in love with the Shire. The woods, the fields. Little rivers. I am old, Gandalf. I know I don't look it, but I'm beginning to feel it in my heart. I feel thin. Sort of stretched... ...like butter scraped over too much bread. I need a holiday. A very long holiday. And I don't expect I shall return. In fact, I mean not to. Old Toby. The finest weed in the Southfarthing. Gandalf, my old friend... ...this will be a night to remember. Hello, hello. Fatty Bolger. Lovely to see you. Welcome, welcome. Go on, Sam. Ask Rosie for a dance. -I think I'll just have another ale. -Oh, no, you don't. Go on! So there I was... ...at the mercy of three monstrous trolls. And they were all arguing amongst themselves... ...about howthey were going to cook us. Whether it be turned on a spit, or to sit on us one by one, squash us into jelly. They spent so much time arguing the whithertos and the whyfors... ...that the sun's first light crept over the top of the trees... ...and turned them all to stone! Quickly. Up they go! No, the big one. -Done! -You're supposed to stick it in the ground. -It is in the ground. -Outside! This was your idea. Watch out for the dragon! Nonsense. There hasn't been a dragon in these parts for a thousand years. -That was good. -Let's get another one. Meriadoc Brandybuck and Peregrin Took. I might've known. Speech, Bilbo! Speech! Speech! My dear Bagginses and Boffins... ...Tooks and Brandybucks... ...Grubbs, Chubbs... ...Hornblowers... ...Bolgers... ...Bracegirdles... -...and Proudfoots. -Proudfeet! Today is my 111th birthday! Happy birthday! But alas, eleventy-one years is far too short a time to live among... ...such excellent and admirable Hobbits. I don't know half of you half as well as I should like... ...and I like less than half of you half as well as you deserve. I have things to do. I've put this off far too long. I regret to announce this is the end! I'm going now. I bid you all a very fond farewell. Goodbye. I suppose you think that was terribly clever. Come on, Gandalf. Did you see their faces? There are many magic rings in this world, and none of them should be used lightly. It was just a bit of fun. Oh, you're probably right, as usual. -You will keep an eye on Frodo, won't you? -Two eyes. As often as I can spare them. -I'm leaving everything to him. -What about this ring of yours? -Is that staying too? -Yes, yes. It's in an envelope over there on the mantelpiece. No. Wait, it's... ...here in my pocket. Isn't that--? Isn't that odd, now? Yet, after all, why not? -Why shouldn't I keep it? -I think you should leave the ring behind. Is that so hard? Well, no. And yes. Now it comes to it, I don't feel like parting with it. It's mine. I found it! It came to me! -There's no need to get angry. -Well, if I'm angry, it's your fault! It's mine. My own. -My precious. -Precious? It's been called that before, but not by you. What business is it of yours what I do with my own things? I think you've had that ring quite long enough. -You want it for yourself! -Bilbo Baggins! Do not take me for some conjurer of cheap tricks. I am not trying to rob you. I'm trying to help you. All your long years, we've been friends. Trust me as you once did. Let it go. You're right, Gandalf. The ring must go to Frodo. It's late. The road is long. Yes, it is time. The ring is still in your pocket. I've thought up an ending for my book: "And he lived happily ever after to the end of his days." And I'm sure you will, my dear friend. Goodbye, Gandalf. Goodbye, dear Bilbo. The road goes ever on and on Until our next meeting. It's mine. My own. My precious. Riddles in the dark. Bilbo! Bilbo! My precious. Precious. He's gone, hasn't he? He talked for so long about leaving... ...I didn't think he'd really do it. Gandalf? Bilbo's ring. He's gone to stay with the Elves. He's left you Bag End. Along with all his possessions. The ring is yours now. -Put it somewhere out of sight. -Where are you going? -There are some things that I must see to. -What things? -Questions. Questions that need answering. -You've only just arrived. I don't understand. Neither do I. Keep it secret. Keep it safe. Shirel Bagginsl "The year 3434 of the Second Age. Here follows the account of Isildur, High King of Gondor... ...and the finding of the Ring of Power. " It has come to me. The One Ring. It shall be" an heirloom of my kingdom. All those who follow in my bloodline shall be bound to its fate... ...for I will risk no hurt to the Ring. It is precious to me... ...though I buy it with great pain. The markings upon the band begin to fade. The writing, which at first was as clear as red flame, has all but disappeared. A secret now that only fire can tell. Shire. Baggins. There's no Bagginses around here. They're all up in Hobbiton. That way. -Good night. -Good night. Good night, Sam. Is it secret? Is it safe? What are you doing? Hold out your hand, Frodo. It's quite cool. What can you see? Can you see anything? Nothing. There's nothing. Wait. There are markings. It's some form of Elvish. I can't read it. There are few who can. The language is that of Mordor, which I will not utter here. Mordor! In the common tongue, it says: "One Ring to rule them all... ...One Ring to find them... ...One Ring to bring them all... ...and in the darkness bind them." This is the One Ring... ...forged by the Dark Lord Sauron in the fires of Mount Doom. Taken by Isildur from the hand of Sauron himself. Bilbo found it. -In Gollum's cave. -Yes. For 60 years, the Ring lay quiet in Bilbo's keeping... ...prolonging his life, delaying old age. But no longer, Frodo. Evil is stirring in Mordor. The Ring has awoken. It's heard its master's call. But he was destroyed. Sauron was destroyed. No, Frodo. The spirit of Sauron endured. His life force is bound to the Ring, and the Ring survived. Sauron has returned. His Orcs have multiplied. His fortress at Barad-dr is rebuilt in the land of Mordor. Sauron needs only this Ring to cover all the lands in a second darkness. He is seeking it. Seeking it. All his thought is bent on it. For the Ring yearns above all else... ...to return to the hand of its master. They are one... ...the Ring and the Dark Lord. Frodo... ...he must never find it. All right. We put it away. We keep it hidden. We never speak of it again. No one knows it's here, do they? Do they, Gandalf? There is one other who knew that Bilbo had the Ring. I looked everywhere for the creature Gollum. But the enemy found him first. I don't know how long they tortured him. But amidst the endless screams and inane babble, they discerned two words.: Shire! Baggins! Shire. Baggins. But that would lead them here! Who goes there? Take it, Gandalf! -Take it! -No, Frodo. -You must take it! -You cannot offer me this ring! -I'm giving it to you! -Don't tempt me, Frodo! I dare not take it. Not even to keep it safe. Understand, Frodo... ...I would use this Ring from a desire to do good. But through me, it would wield a power too great and terrible to imagine. -But it cannot stay in the Shire! -No. No, it can't. What must I do? -You must leave. And leave quickly. -Where? Where do I go? Get out of the Shire. Make for the village of Bree. Bree. -What about you? -I'll be waiting for you... ...at the inn of the Prancing Pony. -And the Ring will be safe there? -I don't know, Frodo. I don't have any answers. I must see the head of my order. He is both wise and powerful. Trust me, Frodo. He'll know what to do. You'll have to leave the name of Baggins behind you. That name is not safe outside the Shire. Travel only by day. And stay off the road. I can cut across country easily enough. My dear Frodo. Hobbits really are amazing creatures. You can learn all that there is to know about their ways in a month. And yet, after a hundred years... ...they can still surprise you. Get down. Confound it all, Samwise Gamgee! Have you been eavesdropping? I haven't been dropping no eaves. Honest. I was cutting the grass under the window. A little late for trimming the verge, don't you think? -I heard raised voices. -What did you hear? Speak! Nothing important. That is, I heard a good deal about a ring, a Dark Lord and the end of the world but-- Please, Mr. Gandalf, sir, don't hurt me. Don't turn me into anything unnatural. No? Perhaps not. I've thought of a better use for you. Come along, Samwise. Keep up. Be careful, both of you. The enemy has many spies in his service: Birds, beasts. Is it safe? Never put it on... ...for the agents of the Dark Lord will be drawn to its power. Always remember, Frodo... ...the Ring is trying to get back to its master. It wants to be found. This is it. This is what? If I take one more step... ...it'll be the farthest away from home I've ever been. Come on, Sam. Remember what Bilbo used to say: -"It's a dangerous business, Frodo." -"Going out your door. You step onto the road, and if you don't keep your feet... ...there's no knowing where you might be swept off to. " Smoke rises from the Mountain of Doom. The hour grows late. And Gandalf the Grey rides to Isengard... ...seeking my counsel. For that is why you have come, is it not? My old friend. Saruman. -You are sure of this? -Beyond any doubt. So the Ring of Power has been found. All these long years, it was in the Shire. -Under my very nose. -Yet you did not have the wit to see it. Your love of the halfling's leaf has clearly slowed your mind. But we still have time. Time enough to counter Sauron if we act quickly. Time? What time do you think we have? Sauron has regained much of his former strength. He cannot yet take physical form... ...but his spirit has lost none of its potency. Concealed within his fortress, the Lord of Mordor sees all. His gaze pierces cloud, shadow, earth and flesh. You know of what I speak, Gandalf. A Great Eye, lidless, wreathed in flame. The Eye of Sauron. He is gathering all evil to him. Very soon, he'll have summoned an army great enough for an assault upon Middle-earth. You knowthis? How? I have seen it. A palantr is a dangerous tool, Saruman. Why? Why should we fear to use it? They are not all accounted for, the lost Seeing-stones. We do not know who else may be watching. The hour is later than you think. Sauron's forces are already moving. The Nine have left Minas Morgul. The Nine? They crossed the River Isen on Midsummer's Eve... ...disguised as riders in black. -They've reached the Shire? -They will find the Ring. And kill the one who carries it. Frodo! You did not seriously think that a Hobbit could contend with the will of Sauron? There are none who can. Against the power of Mordor... ...there can be no victory. We must join with him, Gandalf. We must join with Sauron. It would be wise, my friend. Tell me... ...friend... ...when did Saruman the Wise abandon reason for madness? I gave you the chance... ...of aiding me willingly... ...but you have elected the way of pain! Mr. Frodo? Frodo? Frodo! -I thought I'd lost you. -What are you talking about? -It's just something Gandalf said. -What did he say? "Don't you lose him, Samwise Gamgee." And I don't mean to. Sam, we're still in the Shire. What could possibly happen? Frodo. -Merry, it's Frodo Baggins. -Hello, Frodo. Get off him. Come on, Frodo. What's the meaning of this? You've been into Farmer Maggot's crop! You get back here! Get out of my field! You know what's gonna happen when I catch up with you? I don't know why he's so upset. It's only a couple of carrots. And some cabbages. And those three bags of potatoes that we lifted last week. -And then the mushrooms the week before. -Yes, Pippin. My point is... ...he's clearly overreacting. Run! Oh, that was close. I think I've broken something. Trust a Brandybuck and a Took! What? That was just a detour. A shortcut. -Shortcut to what? -Mushrooms! That's mine. That's nice, Merry. Here's a nice one, Sam. I think we should get off the road. Get off the road! Quick! Be quiet! What was that? Anything? Nothing. What is going on? That Black Rider was looking for something. Or someone. Get down! I have to leave the Shire. Sam and I must get to Bree. Right. Bucklebury Ferry. Follow me. Run! This way! Follow me! Run! Get the rope, Sam! Frodo! Run, Frodo! Go! -Hurry! Frodo, come on! -Come on! Faster! -Jump! -Howfar to the nearest crossing? -The Brandywine Bridge. 20 miles. Come on. -What do you want? -We're heading for the Prancing Pony. Hobbits. Four Hobbits! -What business brings you to Bree? -We wish to stay at the inn. Our business is our own. All right, young sir. I meant no offense. It's my job to ask questions after nightfall. There's talk of strange folk abroad. Can't be too careful. Out of the way! Watch where you're walking. Excuse me. Good evening, little masters. If you're seeking accommodation, we got some cozy Hobbit-sized rooms available. Mister...? Underhill. My name's Underhill. -Underhill, yes. -We're friends of Gandalf the Grey. -Can you tell him we've arrived? -Gandalf? Gandalf. Oh, yes... ...I remember. Elderly chap. Big grey beard, pointy hat. Not seen him for six months. What do we do now? Sam... ...he'll be here. He'll come. Get out of my way! What's that? This, my friend, is a pint. It comes in pints? -I'm getting one. -You got a whole half already! That fellow's done nothing but stare at you since we arrived. Excuse me. That Man in the corner. Who is he? He's one of them Rangers. They're dangerous folk, wandering the Wilds. What his right name is, I've never heard, but around here he's known as Strider. Strider. Baggins. Baggins. Baggins? Sure, I know a Baggins. He's over there. Frodo Baggins. He's my second cousin, once removed on his mother's side... ...and my third cousin, twice removed.... -Pippin! -Steady on, Frodo. You cannot hide. I see you. There is no life... ...in the void. Only... ...death. You drawfar too much attention to yourself, "Mr. Underhill." What do you want? A little more caution from you. That is no trinket you carry. -I carry nothing. -Indeed. I can avoid being seen if I wish... ...but to disappear entirely, that is a rare gift. -Who are you? -Are you frightened? Yes. Not nearly frightened enough. I know what hunts you. Let him go! Or I'll have you, Longshanks. You have a stout heart, little Hobbit. But that will not save you. You can no longer wait for the wizard, Frodo. They're coming. What are they? They were once Men. Great kings of Men. Then Sauron the Deceiver gave to them nine rings of power. Blinded by their greed, they took them without question. One by one, falling into darkness. Nowthey are slaves to his will. They are the NazgI. Ringwraiths. Neither living nor dead. At all times they feel... ...the presence of the Ring... "...drawn to the power of the" One." They will never stop hunting you. -Where are you taking us? -Into the Wild. How do we knowthis Strider is a friend of Gandalf? We have no choice but to trust him. -But where is he leading us? -To Rivendell, Master Gamgee. -To the house of Elrond. -Did you hear that? Rivendell. We're going to see the Elves. -Gentlemen, we do not stop till nightfall. -What about breakfast? -You've already had it. -We've had one, yes. What about second breakfast? Don't think he knows about second breakfast, Pip. What about elevenses? Luncheon? Afternoon tea? Dinner? Supper? -He knows about them, doesn't he? -I wouldn't count on it. Pippin! The power of Isengard is at your command... ...Sauron, Lord of the Earth. Build me an army worthy of Mordor. What orders from Mordor, my lord? What does the Eye command? We have work to do. The trees are strong, my lord. Their roots go deep. Rip them all down. This was the great watchtower of Amon SI. We shall rest here tonight. These are for you. Keep them close. I'm going to have a look around. Stay here. My tomato's burst. Could I have some bacon? Want a tomato, Sam? -What are you doing?! -Tomatoes, sausages, nice crispy bacon. -We saved some for you, Mr. Frodo. -Put it out, you fools! -Put it out! -That's nice! Ash on my tomatoes! Go! Back, you devils! Frodo! Oh, Sam. Strider! -Help him, Strider. -He's been stabbed by a Morgul blade. This is beyond my skill to heal. He needs Elvish medicine. Hurry! We're six days from Rivendell! He'll never make it! Hold on, Frodo. Gandalf! Mr. Frodo? He's going cold. Is he going to die? He's passing into the Shadow World. He'll soon become a Wraith like them. -They're close. -Sam, do you knowthe Athelas plant? -Athelas? -Kingsfoil. Kingsfoil, aye, it's a weed. It may help to slowthe poisoning. Hurry! What's this? A Ranger caught off his guard? Frodo. I am Arwen - I've come to help you. Hear my voice... Come back to the light. Who is she? Frodo. -She's an Elf. -He's fading. He's not going to last. We must get him to my father. -I've been looking for you for two days. -Where are you taking him? There are five Wraiths behind you. Where the other four are, I do not know. Stay with the Hobbits - I'll send horses for you. I'm the faster rider - I'll take him. The Road is too dangerous. What are they saying? If I can get across the river... ...the power of my people will protect him. I do not fear them. Arwen... ...ride hard. Don't look back. What are you doing?! Those Wraiths are still out there! Give up the halfling, She-Elf. If you want him, come and claim him. No. No! Frodo, no. Frodo, don't give in. Not now. What grace is given me... ...let it pass to him. Let him be spared. Save him. -Where am I? -You are in the house of Elrond. And it is 10:00 in the morning on October 24th, if you want to know. -Gandalf! -Yes, I'm here. And you're lucky to be here too. A few more hours and you would have been beyond our aid. But you have some strength in you, my dear Hobbit. What happened, Gandalf? -Why didn't you meet us? -I am sorry, Frodo. I was delayed. A friendship with Saruman is not lightly thrown aside. One ill turn deserves another. It is over. Embrace the power of the Ring... ...or embrace your own destruction! There is only one Lord of the Ring. Only one who can bend it to his will. And he does not share power. So you have chosen death. Gandalf? What is it? Nothing, Frodo. Frodo! -Sam. -Bless you, you're awake! Sam has hardly left your side. We were that worried about you. Weren't we, Mr. Gandalf? By the skills of Lord Elrond, you're beginning to mend. Welcome to Rivendell, Frodo Baggins. -Bilbo! -Hello, Frodo, my lad. Bilbo. "There and Back Again: A Hobbit's Tale, by Bilbo Baggins." -This is wonderful. -I meant to go back... ...wonder at the powers of Mirkwood... ...visit Lake-town... ...see the Lonely Mountain again. But age, it seems, has finally caught up with me. I miss the Shire. I spent all my childhood pretending I was off somewhere else. Off with you, on one of your adventures. But my own adventure turned out to be quite different. I'm not like you, Bilbo. My dear boy. -Now, what have I forgotten? -Packed already? No harm in being prepared. -I thought you wanted to see the Elves. -I do. -More than anything. -I did. It's just.... We did what Gandalf wanted, didn't we? We got the Ring this far, to Rivendell. And I thought... ...seeing as how you're on the mend, we'd be off soon. Off home. You are right, Sam. We did what we set out to do. The Ring will be safe in Rivendell. I am ready to go home. His strength returns. That wound will never fully heal. He will carry it the rest of his life. And yet to have come so far still bearing the Ring... ...the Hobbit has shown extraordinary resilience to its evil. It is a burden he should never have had to bear. -We can ask no more of Frodo. -Gandalf, the enemy is moving. Sauron's forces are massing in the East. His Eye is fixed on Rivendell. And Saruman, you tell me, has betrayed us. Our list of allies grows thin. His treachery runs deeper than you know. By foul craft, Saruman has crossed Orcs with Goblin-men. He's breeding an army in the caverns of Isengard. An army that can move in sunlight and cover great distance at speed. Saruman is coming for the Ring. This evil cannot be concealed by the power of the Elves. We do not have the strength to fight both Mordor and Isengard! Gandalf... ...the Ring cannot stay here. This peril belongs to all Middle-earth. They must decide now how to end it. The time of the Elves is over. My people are leaving these shores. Who will you look to when we've gone? The Dwarves? They hide in mountains seeking riches. They care not for the troubles of others. It is in Men that we must place our hope. Men? Men are weak. The race of Men is failing. The blood of Nmenor is all but spent, its pride and dignity forgotten. It is because of Men the Ring survives. I was there, Gandalf. I was there 3000 years ago... ...when Isildur took the Ring. I was there the day the strength of Men failed. Isildur, hurry! Follow me. I led Isildur into the heart of Mount Doom... ...where the Ring was forged, the one place it could be destroyed. Cast it into the fire! -Destroy it! -No. Isildur! It should have ended that day, but evil was allowed to endure. Isildur kept the Ring. The line of kings is broken. There's no strength left in the world of Men. -They're scattered, divided, leaderless. -There is one who could unite them. One who could reclaim the throne of Gondor. He turned from that path a long time ago. He has chosen exile. The shards of Narsil. The blade that cut the Ring from Sauron's hand. It's still sharp. But no more than a broken heirloom. Why do you fear the past? You are Isildur's heir, not Isildur himself. You are not bound to his fate. The same blood flows in my veins. The same weakness. Your time will come. You will face the same evil. And you will defeat it. The Shadow does not hold sway yet. Not over you... not over me. Do you remember when we first met? I thought I had strayed into a dream. Long years have passed. You did not have the cares you carry now. Do you remember what I told you? You said you'd bind yourself to me... ...forsaking the immortal life of your people. And to that I hold. I would rather share one lifetime with you... ...than face all the Ages of this world alone. I choose a mortal life. -You cannot give me this. -It is mine to give to whom I will... ...like my heart. Strangers from distant lands, friends of old... ...you've been summoned here to answer the threat of Mordor. Middle-earth stands upon the brink of destruction. None can escape it. You will unite, or you will fall. Each race is bound to this fate, this one doom. Bring forth the Ring, Frodo. So it is true. -The doom of Man. -It is a gift. A gift to the foes of Mordor. Why not use this Ring? Long has my father, the Steward of Gondor... ...kept the forces of Mordor at bay. By the blood of our people... ...are your lands kept safe. Give Gondor the weapon of the enemy. Let us use it against him. You cannot wield it. None of us can. The One Ring answers to Sauron alone. It has no other master. And what would a Ranger know of this matter? This is no mere Ranger. He is Aragorn, son of Arathorn. You owe him your allegiance. Aragorn. This is Isildur's heir? And heir to the throne of Gondor. Sit down, Legolas. Gondor has no king. Gondor needs no king. Aragorn is right. We cannot use it. You have only one choice. The Ring must be destroyed. What are we waiting for? The Ring cannot be destroyed, Gimli, son of Glin... ...by any craft that we here possess. The Ring was made in the fires of Mount Doom. Only there can it be unmade. It must be taken deep into Mordor... ...and cast back into the fiery chasm from whence it came. One of you... ...must do this. One does not simply walk into Mordor. Its Black Gates are guarded by more than just Orcs. There is evil there that does not sleep. The Great Eye is ever-watchful. It is a barren wasteland... ...riddled with fire, and ash and dust. The very air you breathe is a poisonous fume. Not with 10,000 men could you do this. It is folly. Have you heard nothing Lord Elrond has said? The Ring must be destroyed. And I suppose you think you are the one to do it! And if we fail, what then? What happens when Sauron takes back what is his? I will be dead before I see the Ring in the hands of an Elf! Never trust an Elf! Do you not understand? While you bicker amongst yourselves, Sauron's power grows! None can escape it! You'll all be destroyed! I will take it. I will take it. I will take the Ring to Mordor. Though... ...I do not knowthe way. I will help you bear this burden, Frodo Baggins... ...as long as it is yours to bear. If by my life or death I can protect you... ...I will. You have my sword. And you have my bow. And my ax. You carry the fates of us all, little one. If this is indeed the will of the Council... ...then Gondor will see it done. -Frodo's not going anywhere without me. -It is hardly possible to separate you... ...even when he is summoned to a secret Council and you are not. We're coming too! You'll have to send us home tied up in a sack to stop us. Anyway, you need people of intelligence on this sort of... ...mission. Quest. Thing. Well, that rules you out, Pip. Nine companions. So be it. You shall be the Fellowship of the Ring. Great! Where are we going? My old swordl Sting. Here, take it. Take it. -It's so light. -Yes. Made by the Elves, you know. The blade glows blue when Orcs are close. And it's times like that, my lad, when you have to be extra careful. Here's a pretty thing. Mithril. As light as a feather, and as hard as dragon scales. Let me see you put it on. Come on. My old ring. I should very much like... ...to hold it again, one last time. I'm sorry I brought this upon you, my boy. I'm sorry that you must carry this burden. I'm sorry for everything. We must hold to this course, west of the Misty Mountains, for 40 days. If our luck holds, the Gap of Rohan will still be open to us. From there, our road turns east to Mordor. Two, one, five. Good! Very good. Move your feet. -You look good, Pippin. -Thanks. Faster! If anyone was to ask for my opinion, which I note they're not... ...I'd say we were taking the long way 'round. Gandalf, we could pass through the Mines of Moria. My cousin Balin would give us a royal welcome. No, I would not take the road through Moria unless I had no other choice. Sorry! Get him! -For the Shire! -Hold him. Hold him down, Merry! You've got my arm! You've got my arm! -What is that? -Nothing. It's just a wisp of cloud. It's moving fast. Against the wind. -Crebain from Dunland! -Hide! -Hurry! -Take cover! Spies of Saruman. The passage south is being watched. We must take the Pass of Caradhras. Frodo! Boromir. It is a strange fate that we should suffer so much fear and doubt... ...over so small a thing. Such a little thing. Boromir! Give the Ring to Frodo. As you wish. I care not. So, Gandalf, you tried to lead them over Caradhras. And if that fails, where then will you go? If the mountain defeats you... ...will you risk a more dangerous road? There is a fell voice on the air. It's Saruman! He's trying to bring down the mountain! Gandalf, we must turn back! No! We must get off the mountain! Make for the Gap of Rohan, and take the west road to my city! The Gap of Rohan takes us too close to Isengard! We cannot pass over a mountain. Let us go under it. Let us go through the Mines of Moria. Moria. You fear to go into those mines. The Dwarves delved too greedily and too deep. You know what they awoke in the darkness of Khazad-dm.: Shadow and flame. Let the Ring-bearer decide. Frodo? We will go through the mines. So be it. The walls... ...of Moria. Well, let's see. Ithildin. It mirrors only starlight and moonlight. It reads, "The Doors of Durin, Lord of Moria. -Speak, friend, and enter." -What do you suppose that means? It's simple. If you are a friend, you speak the password and the doors will open. Mines are no place for a pony. -Even one so brave as Bill. -Bye-bye, Bill. Go on, Bill. Go on. Don't worry, Sam, he knows the way home. Do not disturb the water. Oh, it's useless. It's a riddle. "Speak 'friend' and enter." What's the Elvish word for "friend"? Mellon. Soon, Master Elf, you will enjoy the fabled hospitality of the Dwarves. Roaring fires, malt beer, ripe meat off the bone! This, my friend, is the home of my cousin Balin. And they call it a mine. A mine! This is no mine. It's a tomb. NO.... No! Goblins. We make for the Gap of Rohan. We should never have come here. Now, get out of here. Get out! -Frodo! -Help! Strider! -Help! -Get off him! Aragorn! Frodo! Into the mines! -Legolas! -Into the cave! Run! We now have but one choice. We must face the long dark of Moria. Be on your guard. There are older and fouler things than Orcs... ...in the deep places of the world. Quietly now. It's a four-day journey to the other side. Let us hope that our presence may go unnoticed. Pippin. I have no memory of this place. -Are we lost? -No. -I think we are. -Gandalf's thinking. -Merry? -What? I'm hungry. -There's something down there. -It's Gollum. -Gollum? -He's been following us for three days. -He escaped the dungeons of Barad-dr? -Escaped... ...or was set loose. He hates and loves the Ring, as he hates and loves himself. He will never be rid of his need for it. It's a pity Bilbo didn't kill him when he had the chance. Pity? It is pity that stayed Bilbo's hand. Many that live deserve death. Some that die deserve life. Can you give it to them, Frodo? Do not be too eager to deal out death and judgment. Even the very wise cannot see all ends. My heart tells me that Gollum has some part to play yet, for good or ill... ...before this is over. The pity of Bilbo may rule the fate of many. I wish the Ring had never come to me. I wish none of this had happened. So do all who live to see such times. But that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given to us. There are other forces at work in this world, Frodo, besides the will of evil. Bilbo was meant to find the Ring. In which case, you also were meant to have it. And that is an encouraging thought. It's that way. -He's remembered. -No. But the air doesn't smell so foul down here. If in doubt, Meriadoc, always follow your nose. Let me risk a little more light. Behold... ...the great realm and Dwarf-city of Dwarrowdelf. There's an eye opener, and no mistake. Gimli! No! Oh, no. No. "Here lies Balin... ...son of Fundin... ...Lord of Moria." He is dead, then. It's as I feared. We must move on. We cannot linger. "They have taken the bridge and the second hall. We have barred the gates... ...but cannot hold them for long. The ground shakes. Drums... ...drums in the deep. We cannot get out. A Shadow moves in the dark. We cannot get out. They are coming. Fool of a Took! Throw yourself in next time, and rid us of your stupidity. Frodo! Orcs. Get back! Stay close to Gandalf! They have a cave-troll. Let them come! There is one Dwarf yet in Moria who still draws breath. I think I'm getting the hang of this. Frodo! Aragorn! Aragorn! Frodo! Frodo! Oh, no. He's alive. I'm all right. I'm not hurt. You should be dead. That spear would have skewered a wild boar. I think there's more to this Hobbit than meets the eye. Mithril. You are full of surprises, Master Baggins. To the Bridge of Khazad-dm! This way! What is this new devilry? A Balrog. A demon of the ancient world. This foe is beyond any of you. Run! Quickly! Gandalf. Lead them on, Aragorn. The bridge is near. Do as I say! Swords are no more use here. Gandalf! Merry! Pippin! Sam! Nobody tosses a Dwarf. Not the beard! Steady. Hold on! Hang on! Lean forward! Steady. Come on! Now! Over the bridge! Fly! You cannot pass! Gandalf! I am a servant of the Secret Fire, wielder of the flame of Anor. The dark fire will not avail you, flame of Udn! Go back to the Shadow. You shall not pass! -No! No! -Gandalf! Fly, you fools! No! Aragorn! Legolas, get them up. Give them a moment, for pity's sake! By nightfall, these hills will be swarming with Orcs. We must reach the woods of Lothlrien. Come, Boromir. Legolas. Gimli, get them up. On your feet, Sam. Frodo? Frodo! Stay close, young Hobbits! They say that a great sorceress lives in these woods. An Elf-witch... ...of terrible power. All who look upon her... ...fall under her spell. Frodol And are never seen again. Your coming to us is as the footsteps of doom. You bring great evil here, Ring-bearer. Mr. Frodo? Well, here's one Dwarf she won't ensnare so easily. I have the eyes of a hawk and the ears of a fox. The Dwarf breathes so loud, we could have shot him in the dark. Haldir of Lorien. We come here for help. We need your protection. Aragorn, these woods are perilous. We should go back. You have entered the realm of the Lady of the Wood. You cannot go back. Come. She is waiting. Eight there are here, yet nine there were set out from Rivendell. Tell me, where is Gandalf? For I much desire to speak with him. He has fallen into Shadow. The quest stands upon the edge of a knife. Stray but a little and it will fail... ...to the ruin of all. Yet hope remains while the Company is true. Do not let your hearts be troubled. Go now and rest... ...for you are weary with sorrow and much toil. Tonight, you will sleep.... Welcome, Frodo of the Shire... ...one who has seen the Eyel A lament for Gandalf. What do they say about him? I have not the heart to tell you. For me, the grief is still too near. Take some rest. These borders are well-protected. I will find no rest here. I heard her voice inside my head. She spoke of my father and the fall of Gondor. She said to me, "Even nowthere is hope left." But I cannot see it. It is long since we had any hope. My father is a noble man. But his rule is failing... ...and our people lose faith. He looks to me to make things right, and I would do it. I would see the glory of Gondor restored. Have you ever seen it, Aragorn? The White Tower of Ecthelion. Glimmering like a spike of pearl and silver. Its banners caught high in the morning breeze. Have you ever been called home... ...by the clear ringing of silver trumpets? I have seen the White City... ...Iong ago. One day, our paths will lead us there. And the tower guard shall take up the call: "The Lords of Gondor have returned." Will you look into the mirror? What will I see? Even the wisest cannot tell. For the mirror... ...shows many things. Things that were... ...things that are... ...and some things... ...that have not yet come to pass. I know what it is you saw. For it is also in my mind. It is what will come to pass if you should fail. The Fellowship is breaking. It is already begun. He will try to take the Ring. You know of whom I speak. One by one, it will destroy them all. If you ask it of me... ...I will give you the One Ring. You offer it to me freely. I do not deny that my heart has greatly desired this. In place of a Dark Lord, you would have a queen... ...not dark but beautiful, and terrible as the dawn! Treacherous as the sea! Stronger than the foundations of the earth! All shall love me... ...and despair. I pass the test. I will diminish... ...and go into the West... -...and remain Galadriel. -I cannot do this alone. You are a Ring-bearer, Frodo. To bear a Ring of Power... ...is to be alone. This task was appointed to you. And if you do not find a way... ...no one will. Then I know what I must do. It's just... ...I'm afraid to do it. Even the smallest person can change the course of the future. Do you know howthe Orcs first came into being? They were Elves once. Taken by the Dark Powers... ...tortured and mutilated. A ruined and terrible form of life. And now... ...perfected. My fighting Uruk-hai... ...whom do you serve? Saruman! Hunt them down. Do not stop until they are found. You do not know pain. You do not knowfear. You will taste Man-flesh! One of the halflings carries something of great value. Bring them to me alive and unspoiled. Kill the others. Farewell, Frodo Baggins. I give you the light of Erendil... ...our most beloved star. May it be a light for you in dark places... ...when all other lights go out. Frodo. The Argonath. Long have I desired to look upon the kings of old. My kin. We cross the lake at nightfall. Hide the boats and continue on foot. -We approach Mordor from the North. -Oh, yes? Just a simple matter of finding our way through Emyn Muil... ...an impassable labyrinth of razor-sharp rocks. And after that, it gets even better. Festering, stinking marshland as far as the eye can see. That is our road. I suggest you take some rest and recover your strength, Master Dwarf. Recover my-- -We should leave now. -No. Orcs patrol the eastern shore. We must wait for cover of darkness. It is not the eastern shore that worries me. A shadow and a threat has been growing in my mind. Something draws near. I can feel it. Recover strength? Pay no heed to that, young Hobbit. Where's Frodo? None of us should wander alone. You, least of all. So much depends on you. Frodo? I know why you seek solitude. You suffer. I see it day by day. You sure you do not suffer needlessly? There are other ways, Frodo. -Other paths that we might take. -I know what you would say. It would seem like wisdom but for the warning in my heart. Warning? Against what? We're all afraid, Frodo. But to let that fear drive us, to destroy what hope we have... -...don't you see that is madness? -There is no other way. I ask only for the strength to defend my people! -lf you would but lend me the Ring. -No. -Why do you recoil? I am no thief. -You are not yourself. What chance do you think you have? They will find you. They will take the Ring. And you will beg for death before the end! You fool! It is not yours, save by unhappy chance! It could have been mine. It should be mine! Give it to me! -Give it to me! -No! -Give it to me! -No. I see your mind. You will take the Ring to Sauron! You will betray us! You'll go to your death, and the death of us all! Curse you! Curse you and all the halflings! Frodo? Frodo. What have I done? Please, Frodo. Frodo, I'm sorry! Frodo? -It has taken Boromir. -Where is the Ring? Stay away!Frodo! -I swore to protect you. -Can you protect me from yourself? Would you destroy it? Aragorn. Aragorn. Elessar. I would have gone with you to the end. Into the very fires of Mordor. I know. Look after the others. Especially Sam. He will not understand. Go, Frodo! Run. Run! Mr. Frodo! Find the halfling! Find the halfling! Elendil! Aragorn, go! Frodo! Hide here. Quick! Come on! What's he doing? He's leaving. -No! -Pippin! Run, Frodo. Go on! -Hey! Hey, you! -Over here! -Over here! -This way! -It's working! -I know it's working! Run! -The horn of Gondor. -Boromir. Run! No. -They took the little ones. -Hold still. Frodo. Where is Frodo? I let Frodo go. Then you did what I could not. I tried to take the Ring from him. -The Ring is beyond our reach now. -Forgive me. I did not see it. -I have failed you all. -No, Boromir. You fought bravely. You have kept your honor. Leave it. It is over. The world of Men will fall. And all will come to darkness... ...and my city to ruin. I do not know what strength is in my blood... ...but I swear to you, I will not let the White City fall... ...nor our people fail. Our people. Our people. I would have followed you, my brother. My captain. My king. Be at peace... ...son of Gondor. Frodo! I wish the Ring had never come to me. I wish none of this had happened. So do all who live to see such times... ...but that is not for them to decide. All you have to decide... ...is what to do with the time that is given to you. Frodo, no! Frodo! -Mr. Frodo! -No, Sam. Go back, Sam! -I'm going to Mordor alone. -Of course you are. And I'm coming with you! You can't swim! Sam! Sam! I made a promise, Mr. Frodo. A promise: "Don't you leave him, Samwise Gamgee." And I don't mean to. I don't mean to. Sam. Come on. Hurry! Frodo and Sam have reached the eastern shore. -You mean not to followthem. -Frodo's fate is no longer in our hands. Then it has all been in vain. The Fellowship has failed. Not if we hold true to each other. We will not abandon Merry and Pippin to torment and death. Not while we have strength left. Leave all that can be spared behind. We travel light. Let us hunt some Orc. Yes! Mordor. I hope the others find a safer road. Strider will look after them. I don't suppose we'll ever see them again. We may yet, Mr. Frodo. We may. Sam... ...I'm glad you are with me.

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