I have taken cares to re-work some of the wording and fix spelling errors and grammar. Hopefully so of the reading will flow easier.

Disclaimer: The characters in JRR Tolkien's 'The Lord of the Rings' do not belong to me. They are only here so that I may be rid of this plot bunny that would not leave me alone. These wonderful creations are utilized without permission and no money is being made with their usage.

Summary: After the Council, before Frodo headed South with his Fellowship, Elrond had the particular enigma of naming the Nine Walkers. Here's some mental introspective into the Lord of Imladris as he sought the answer to the question: who would represent the Elves? Complete with Elvish logic, philosophy, and enlightening conversations. (Book-verse)

Author Notes: This is meant as an expanded version of Elrond's thought process on choosing the Fellowship namely, as you'll read, Legolas. I've always found it interesting that he decided upon the young elf when there were many present that would have had increased experience, and seem to be a more logical choice. I mean, Glorfindel did defeat that Balrog…

Enjoy!

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THE SEARCH FOR THE NINTH WALKER

by Susie

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'And I will choose your companions to go with you, as far as they will or fortune allows…The Company of the Ring shall be Nine; and the Nine Walkers shall be set against the Nine Riders that are evil…For the rest, they shall represent the other Free People of the World; Elves, Dwarves, and Men. Legolas shall be for the Elves…' -Elrond

'The Fellowship of the Ring' -The Ring Goes South

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Lord Elrond of Imadris sat upon his chair staring into the burning fire before him. It had been many sunsets and rises since the Council meeting had ended allowing all present the rest they required. However, the elf-Lord knew he could do little of the slumbering that many beneath his roofs had the pleasure of partaking in. He had much to sort through in these next precious hours when no one would think to disrupt him. Long before the Council had even started it seemed, numerous sorts of Men, Elves, and Dwarves had taken it upon themselves to speak with the Lord of Imladris personally.

He was well aware that since the rumor of the One Ring had been confirmed, deadlier rumors had begun to surface. Many did not know much about the Ring other than the tales they had heard from elders regarding the Last Alliance. Most turned to Elrond to sort out the mystery surrounding the Ring, Frodo, and Sauron, either because he had been present during the Second Age or because he had spoke with Frodo and Mithrandir personally. Whatever the reason, numerous sorts of visitors had taken Elrond's time seeking guidance. If that was not enough, there had been Frodo's grievous injury to contend with. It had indeed been a trying time for Imladris' Lord to say the least.

And now, in the early hours of nightfall the Lord of the Last Homely House was pondering the future both of the Ringbearer and all of Middle-earth. Elrond, with no small measure, would not truly mind having Galadriel and her mirror beside him. Most assuredly, she could help him with this business of the Nine Walkers, perhaps offering a small peek at what the future may hold; anything that could help to make this decision clearer to him. Alas, he knew, that was a folly wish indeed, for now was not the time to be frolicking within mirrors or taking counsel with others of his race. This was his task and there was no one to share his burden. He was the one to choose the Walkers, whether he wanted to be or not. Elrond knew that the time for the Ring to leave Imladris was upon them for the Elves could no longer hide this danger among themselves. The Bearer and his companions needed to head towards Mordor within the next few days. Of course, that meant he had to inform Frodo of whom he would be walking with, which in itself posed a new dilemma since Elrond had yet to establish the exact persons to actually be Frodo's companions

The number of the Walkers came to him while he started the fire that now burned before him. Elrond thought it was watching the logs being consumed by the flames that made his thoughts turn to Mordor and Mount Doom. From there, they flew like a small lark. Sauron had his Nine Ring-wraiths and so Elrond and Middle-earth would have their Nine Walkers. The elf-Lord knew a number any larger would be too easy to detect and any less would be too small to defend. The Fellowship, as he named it, would be nine. The only problem now lay within who would fill those positions.

Four came without question and for that Elrond was eternally thankful. He did not know where he would have started if these four did not seem so intent on making certain they followed the Ring. Frodo was the first Walker without question. He had been chosen by fate for this task and he would bear this burden till the bitter end. The Ring was already a part of him and to try and give it to another would prove folly and dangerous. The halfling had already proven that he was strong of heart and courage; asking more of him was almost selfish, but Elrond ascertained it would be unavoidable. This quest was Frodo's and if he did not find a way to destroy this Ring than no one stood a chance at doing such a thing.

Then, if Frodo went, Sam would not be far behind which he had already made clear. The Lord of Imladris knew it would save him much face if he simply told the faithful hobbit he was going with his Master, for getting Samwise to stay in here, or even head home to the Shire, would be wasted energy. When it came to Frodo that halfling could be as stubborn as a dwarf, refusing to leave his Master's side for even a matter of moments if something could go wrong. Elrond knew that hobbit would follow Frodo to the end and even into the very fires of Mount Doom if that is where this path took them. Frodo also needed Sam. Their friendship was deep and would help more so then even Elrond dared to presume.

The third Walker that came to him unbidden was Aragorn, Isildur's heir. The man had much at stake in the Ring and its future that, like Frodo, to not allow him to go could never be a possibility. Elrond was all too aware that the survival of Men rested with the heir to the throne, and no matter how much it grieved him to send away one so close to his heart, it needed to be done. It was now time for the son of Arathorn to face his heritage, no matter how difficult this would prove. Gondor, and all of Mankind, needed their King now in its darkest hour. The future King would join the Ring's journey and along the way his own path would become clear.

And the forth was Mithrandir. The wizard had already made his choice long before Elrond had even begun to ponder the nine Walkers. The Istari held much guilt over having this burden placed upon Frodo, whether or not there was blame to be had. He would not leave the hobbit's side as long as the Ring remained attached to the Halfling. The Lord of Imladris was not certain, but something in the air spoke to him telling that Mithrandir may find himself leaving Frodo's side somewhere along this long path whether he sought to or not.

And so, four places were filled and yet that left five empty. Elrond was not a fool and knew that the other hobbits, Peregrin and Meriadoc, would be hard to leave out of this quest and yet he was unsure of sending them. They were both so young and innocent that, to send them on this mission, would do to destroy a part of this wonderful traits. They were dear friends of Frodo, which had been made clear by the unsurpassable loyalty they had to the hobbit. Those two had made the choice to follow Frodo and the Ring this far, maybe they would go further. It was an option, the elf-Lord mused, and he kept it on his mind.

If the hobbits then accompanied the previous quartet that left three more spots unfilled. The Half-Elven knew that the Free People of Middle-earth had to be represented or else he feared a small war could erupt. Already there was much prejudice in the lands, none so obvious as that between Elves and Dwarves, and so having one race unfairly taking part in the One Ring's journey would only serve to create further conflict between the three races. And so, one man, elf, and dwarf was need, but who would be best fitted for this mission? Elrond's thoughts first turned to the Dwarves simply because they were the easiest choice only because of the lack of options.

Gimli, son of Glóin, would join the quest being that he and his father were the only Dwarves present who could be considered for this quest. Glóin, while a formidable force even in his old age, had past his prime as it were. His time of battling was over and now he belonged only in the caves he loved so. His son would go in his stead. Gimli was a strong warrior not lacking in courage or strength. He would bring a powerful force to the Nine Walkers with his axe and he was, in Elrond's mind, the brute strength that was necessary. Gimli's heart was also in the right place; his faith to restoring peace to Middle-earth would bring forth an unrelenting determination that the Dwarves were known for. Accompanying this determination would be his stubborn will, making the son of Glóin a force that would drive the Fellowship onwards.

For Men, Elrond deemed another representative was required. Aragorn was no longer on the common man's level. It did not matter that he had yet to claim the throne. Isildur's heir was their King, and there needed to be another to even the odds, as they were. There were many men to choose from, but one had caught the elf-Lord's eye long before he'd started this planning of the Nine Walkers. Boromir, son of the Steward of Gondor. That man was much like his father: proud, strong, and loyal. He loved the White City with his entire being; more so than perhaps even his father. Boromir had fought for his city for many years now and it only seemed logical that he would wish to journey with the Ring to see that Gondor remained safe.

He had been called to this Council, or at least that he what he felt. The Ring almost seemed to possess a hold on this son of Gondor, pulling him towards it. And be if far from Elrond to stop that pull. The man would go even if it was somehow against the elf's better judgment. The son of Denethor already made it known that Gondor was in good hands with his father, having the rightful heir in his company could prove a volatile mix, but Boromir would still desire to go. Perhaps, along this road, Aragorn and he would find themselves better understanding one another and finding a level ground. Boromir would go and Elrond, if need be, could curse his bad judgment later.

Finally, the last place to fill was for an elf. Unlike the Dwarves or even the Men, they were in high number in the Last Homely House. Already, Elrond could not keep count or track of the numerous Elves that had come to him asking to be of service to the Ringbearer. That was even before the Council! Afterwards, for days on end it seemed, even more had come to him, requesting that they be sent with Frodo. Tonight, though, he had luckily found shelter in his room and none dared to bother the Lord of Imladris presently. The problem with the Elves was that all of those residing and visiting Rivendell currently were a fine choice. All Elves, almost as a rule, could fight and had a prowess in battle unsurpassed by few. They all wielded bows, knives, and swords as extensions of their bodies. Of course, there were those that were more gifted in fighting, but the difference was marginal to say the least. One warrior would, in truth, be no different than another.

In addition to this, they all possessed the heightened senses of their race and so, the gift of the Elves would be plentiful without regards to whom Elrond named as a Walker. So, it would not matter which elf was chosen, only that an elf would be in the company of the Fellowship. Elrond found himself almost agreeing with this point. Almost. There was something, though, telling the Lord of Imladris that not just any elf would do. He needed to think through his choice of representative just as he had the previous ones.

A knock at the door interrupted the elf-Lord's pondering and with a distinctively un-Elvish sigh he rose to answer it. In truth, Elrond knew that the silence of the evening was too good to last and, in some small part of his mind, he had expected someone to visit him. Of course, the timing could not have been worse, for the Fellowship was still lacking its ninth member and that was something of a problem. Tomorrow he had to speak with Frodo about his companions and it would do the hobbit no good if the Lord of Imladris lacked the complete list of those going with the Ringbearer. The knocking, as Elrond walked to his door, did not cease, though it also did not become more insistent. Whoever was awaiting the Lord of Imladris' company was in no hurry, but also would not be ignored. Reaching his door, the Half-Elven opened it to reveal his visitor.

Glorfindel stood half in the hallway and half in the door jam. He offered Elrond a slight bow before speaking. "I am sorry to disturb you, my Lord, but I had something I felt you must hear." He stated gently, attempting to offer an apology for the disruption while also not letting the Lord of Imladris think that the matter was not of some importance.

Elrond stepped back and allowed Glorfindel to enter, wondering what it was his long-time friend felt pertinent to speak about. He, more than most, would be well aware of all that was on the Lord of Imladris' mind and so, to seek out Elrond meant there was some importance in what Glorfindel would say. The blond warrior entered and then turned to face Elrond standing just inside of the room.

"I am ready to go if you so wish it," he said without pretense or explanation. Elrond arched a dark eyebrow questioning Glorfindel without a word. The other elf gently shook his head, a smile nearly appearing on the elegant face. "I fear I do not speak plainly. Let me begin again. I am ready to go with the Ringbearer if you choose me to. I am well prepared to fight along side him and others you may pick."

Glorfindel, being a trusted friend and, many times over, an advisor, knew well that Elrond was planning an entourage to go with Frodo. Of course, none knew who would be included in this Fellowship, not even the blond elf standing across from the Lord of Imladris.

Glorfindel spoke again, "It would be an honor to serve Frodo." He gave a soft bow allowing Elrond to make the judgment upon him about whether or not he was to go with the Ring. Glorfindel had thought of this moment ere he left the Council all those days ago. Since hearing about the fate that must meet the Ring, he knew he would be well prepared for such a trying trip. It was, on top of this, his duty to Rivendell to go with the Ring; to the very fires in Mordor. Glorfindel knew that here in Imladris he was one of, if not, the wisest choice to follow Frodo, save for Elrond himself going. That of course was not a possibility and so, Glorfindel would go in his place and represent the Elves on this quest.

The Half-Elven stared long at the slightly bowed form of the elf warrior before speaking. This elf before him would be the logical choice. He was, without doubt, one of the finest warriors in Middle-earth and would provide the knowledge needed for this journey. Glorfindel had lived long and seen much, making him strong and wise. He was not foolhardy or rash about anything and would bring many great skills on this quest. The Lord of Imladris knew, Glorfindel would never leave the side of the Ringbearer as long as his blood still flowed through him. He was loyal to a fault it seemed to wherever or whomever he placed this loyalty he would remain faithful. Glorfindel also had great depths of knowledge of Middle-earth. He was a well-traveled elf that could bestow upon the Fellowship with a wealth of information at a second's notice. And yet, Mithrandir possessed such knowledge. The Istari could provide the Walkers with the wisdom for all the ages.

"My friend," Elrond began and his companion straightened. "I thank you for your offer, but I fear I will not take you up on it."

Glorfindel absorbed the words and then creased his brows in question. He took no offense to the Lord of Imladris' words, but did find them a bit surprising. He began to speak in a voice slightly slowed as if attempting to have Elrond understand something that he may have missed. "But, I am one of, if not, the most qualified for this among our people. My skills-"

"-are impressive, yes," Elrond interrupted. "But, that is not all that is needed for this journey as, I am only beginning to understand."

"My Lord?" The warrior questioned not completely comprehending what his Lord was attempting to say.

The elf-Lord spoke with careful words clearly trying to sort of his own thoughts in the process of speaking. "This will be a perilous journey to say the least. There are dangers out there that none have faced." At this, Glorfindel appeared as if he would speak, but Elrond held up a hand ceasing all talk. "I know you could argue that you have seen these evils and worse. I will not disagree with this fact. Yet, more than experience is needed. As I said, these dangers are unknown to Frodo and the other hobbits-"

At this, Glorfindel did speak and interrupt, "The other hobbits?"

Elrond nodded. "Yes, I believe they will not leave Frodo to this mission alone no matter how hard I could try to send them back to the Shire. Thus, simply telling them to go would ease the tension that is assured to arise before it starts."

Glorfindel said nothing, but the elf-Lord could tell that he was not completely in the same opinion with this decision. He would not speak out his argument, though, leaving the wisdom of Elrond alone. It was a good thing too, that Glorfindel did not speak out negatively of the hobbits journeying with Frodo for if he had, Elrond was not certain he would have had the conviction to argue on for their journeying with the Ringbearer. However, he knew that they should go and thus, was thankful that his companion did not seek to question this judgment.

"Please continue your explanation," The blond elf said bringing Elrond's thoughts back to the topic at hand.

Elrond nodded. "As I said, these dangers are unknown to the halflings and, therefore, will be frightening. They have already faced many dangers, yet with each step away from Imladris more will come about. They need a," he pause searching for the correct word, "a beacon on this journey," he concluded.

"A beacon?" Glorfindel questioned not entirely sure what sort of 'beacon' Elrond was alluding to.

The Lord of Imladris took a deep breath. "A beacon," he repeated. "Think of your darkest time and what did you look for while facing it?" He questioned abruptly. His words were rushed as if he finally had found the path that his thoughts would take.

The inquiry, for not at all along the current route of their conversation, took Glorfindel by surprise and he paused for a moment to collect his thoughts before answering. "I looked for hope." He said simply, not certain if this what his friend was seeking and, if by chance it was, even less sure what he had planned to gain by such information.

Elrond smiled, clearly satisfied with the response. "As I am certain most do who face darkness. It is in the hardest trials of our lives that we turn, not to our skills or strengths, but to something that comes from our faith. We look for hope because we find that there is truly nothing else to look for. All of our physical abilities have reached their peak and, it is while they appear to be of no more use, that we seek guidance from something other than ourselves." The elf-Lord paused, staring intently at Glorfindel almost urging him with his eyes to follow his thoughts and see the destination that Elrond would reach. He continued to speak, "Hope is something that can be found in the strangest of places or, even people, at the harshest of times."

It is often said that Elves never answer questions fully, finding mirth with speaking in riddles. Never had Glorfindel ever felt like this, finding Elves to speak as plainly as Men in regards to inquiries. Until now that was. Elrond had offered him nothing and yet said much. It was, at this moment, that the elf-warrior wondered if this was how Men felt whence they approached an elf for guidance. In some small part of his brain, the blond elf made a note to cease speaking in clouded language for fear his attempts to get information across were as confusing as Elrond's attempt currently.

And so, unclear as to what the Lord of Imladris was saying, Glorfindel decided to make his confusion known. "My Lord, I fear I do not follow your words and how they are representative of myself or of whom will go with the Ringbearer." The blond elf also knew that if he now sought an answer he would need to ask plainly in hopes of the elf-Lord doing the same.

For his part, Elrond did not appear insulted by the lack of understanding on his friend's behalf. "I do fear that I do not speak plainly, for my thoughts have not sorted themselves out entirely in my head. I am speaking almost as quickly as I am thinking and, as you have noticed, that can be a confusing process for both parties." He offered as way of explanation.

Glorfindel only nodded and said, "That is quite all right, my Lord." The pair then fell into silence.