The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers/Transcript

The Lord of the Rings

EXT - THE PASS OF CARADHRAS - MORNING

A sweeping shot of the glorious mountain range following the steps of the Fellowship who passed through. Voices carry on the wind, echoing events of recent history.

Gandalf: (v.o.) You cannot pass!

Frodo: (v.o.) Gandalf!

Gandalf: (v.o.) I am the servant of the Secret Fire, wielder of the Flame of Arnor.

A mighty roar and a clash of magic is heard as we fly towards one particular mountain in the range.

Gandalf: (v.o.) Go back to the shadow! The dark fire will not avail you, Flame of Udun!

We draw quickly closer to the mountain, through the rock and inside.

INT - BRIDGE OF KHAZAD-DUM - NIGHT

Gandalf stands alone on the Bridge facing the Balrog, an enormous creature of shadow and flame. The wizard wields his sword Glamdring in one hand, his staff in the other, while the monster ignites and swings it's flaming whip. At the other end of the Bridge, the Fellowship of the Ring, Aragorn, Boromir, Legolas, Gimli, Frodo, Sam, Merry & Pippin, all watch helplessly as the two battle. Gandalf raises his staff high.

Gandalf: YOU SHALL NOT PASS!

He lunges the staff down onto the bridge with a bright flash of light, but to seemingly no effect. The Balrog snorts as Gandalf stares directly in it's eyes. As the beast walks forward to attack the wizard, the bridge collapses under it, sending it falling down into the endless dark below. Gandalf turns to walk towards his comrades, but the Balrog launches it's whip upwards and catches Gandalf's leg. He's sent over the edge of the broken bridge but he manages to catch hold of a piece of rubble. The ringbearer, Frodo, runs towards his friend but with goblin's approaching, is held back by Boromir who urges him to stay.

Frodo: Gandalf!

Galndalf tries to pull himself up but he has very little strength left. He hangs onto the edge of the bridge looking at the Fellowship. Frodo stares with tears in his eyes.

Gandalf: Fly, you fools.

Frodo: NO!!!

As Frodo's cry echoes throughout the mines, Gandalf releases his grip and falls into the black abyss, following the still falling Balrog. Diving headfirst towards his foe, the wizard retrieves his fallen sword, lands onto the flaming beast and plunges his blade into its chest. The Balrog roars in pain as more blows are delivered. The creature grabs Gandalf in his massive claws and strike him. As they continue to fall down the narrow chasm, they strike a rockface which frees Gandalf of the monster's grip. He maneuvers himself to it's back and continues his attack. Eventually the chasm opens up into a natural chamber with a pool of water illuminated by the Balrog's fire. The two fight until they hit the water below, at which point a flash of light engulfs the scene.

EXT - EMYN MUIL - DAY

Frodo suddenly wakes from a deep sleep, as if he seen the whole battle play out in his mind.

Frodo: Gandalf!

Sam wakes upon hearing his friends cry.

Sam: What is it, Mister Frodo?

Frodo composes himself and sorrowfully lays back down.

Frodo: Nothing. (beat) Just a dream

The Two Towers

Later in the day, Sam climbs to the peak of a broken cliff with Frodo close behind. They look at the grim horizon: the Land of Mordor, black skies and fire over it's mountain peaks.

Sam: Mordor. The one place in Middle-Earth we don't want to see any closer, but it's the one place we're trying to get to. It's just where we can't get. Let's face it, Mister Frodo. We're lost. I don't think Gandalf meant for us to come this way.

Frodo: (sadly) He didn't mean for a lot of things to happen, Sam... but they did.

Frodo looks into the distance and it suddenly gripped by fear. He sees the Eye of Sauron in his mind and a great weight comes over him. He collapses to his knee and struggles to catch his breath.

Sam: Mister Frodo? It's the Ring, isn't it?

Frodo: It's getting heavier.

He clutches he chest where the Ring hangs around his neck. Sam removes his pack and the two rest on the craggy path. Frodo takes a short but deep drink from his pouch.

Frodo: What food have we got left?

Sam: Well, let me see. (Sam opens his bag and pulls out something wrapped in a leaf, speaking almost in a sarcastic tone) Oh yes, lovely. Lembas bread. And look! (He pulls out another one) More lembas bread.

Sam breaks off a piece of bread and tosses it to Frodo, who sits facing away from the evil land. Sam takes a piece for himself and the two eat.

Sam: I don't usually own foreign food. But this Elvish stuff, it's not bad.

Frodo: (turns and smiles) Nothing ever dampens your spirits, does it, Sam?

Sam: (looking into the distance) Those rain clouds might.

EXT - EYMN MUIL - EVENING

The rain cloud has come over Sam and Frodo, as has a thick layer of fog, making this labyrinth of razor sharp rock even more difficult to navigate. The two have been walking for some time when Sam stops to notice something.

Sam: This look strangely familiar

Frodo looks around despairingly

Frodo: It's because we've been here before. We're going in circles!

Sam: (looking into the mist) What is that horrid stink? I'd warrant there's a nasty bog nearby. Can you smell it?

Frodo: Yes. I can smell it. (He turns to look at Sam) We're not alone.

EXT - EMYN MUIL - NIGHT

The clouds have cleared and a full moon is shining in the night sky. The two Hobbits sleep in a secluded area. Whilst they do, a figure crawls across the top of the cliffs overlooking them. The thin, gangly creature, Gollum, talks to himself as he approaches.

Gollum: The thieves. The thieves! The filthy, little thieves! Where is it? Where is it? They stole is from us. My precious. We curse them, we hates them! It's ours, it is. And we wants it!

Gollum reaches a hand down but Frodo and Sam leap to their feet, knowing Gollum was their. The creature realizes he's been caught and tries to break free from Frodo and Sam's grip. He's wrestled to the ground and manages to kick Frodo off. After striking Sam, Gollum notices the Ring on a chain around Frodo's neck. Gollum leaps on the Hobbit trying to grab his precious. Sam attempts to pull off Gollum by the leg but is swatted away by Gollum. Using all the strength he has, he desperately reaches for the Ring and almost puts it on were it not for Frodo restraining his hand. Sam comes up from behind again, holding Gollum by the waist and lift him in the air off of his master. Gollum struggles and bite Sam on the neck. He falls and the creature starts to choke him from behind. Frodo swiftly grabs him on the back of the head and holds his sword to his neck.

Frodo: This is Sting. You've seen it before. Haven't you, Gollum?

Gollum still has a tight grip on Sam's airway and he's struggling to breathe.

Frodo: Release him, or I'll cut your throat.

After a moment, Gollum releases Sam and the gardener moves free of his grip. Having failed, Gollum wails into the night.

EXT - EMYN MUIL - MORNING

Gollum is still crying as loud as his voice is able. Frodo is leading and Sam has Gollum's neck in a noose, pulling him through the canyon like a reluctant dog on a lead.

Gollum: It burns! It burns us! It freezes! Nasty Elves twisted it. Take it off us!

Sam: Quiet, you!

They stop as Gollum slumps to the ground continuing to cry.

Sam: It's hopeless. Every orc in Mordor's going to hear this racket! Let's just tie him up and leave him.

Gollum: No! That would kill us, kill us!

Sam It's no more than you deserve!

Gollum continues to slump and roll on the floor, giving pathetic cries. Frodo stares at him intently.

Frodo: Maybe he does deserve to die. But now that I see him, I do pity him.

Gollum hears this and looks at Frodo hopefully.

Gollum: We be nice to them if they be nice to us. (holding the rope) Take it off us! We swears to do what you wants. We swears.

Frodo: There's no promise you can make that I can trust.

Gollum approaches Frodo slowly, almost begging on his knees.

Gollum: We swears to serve the master of the precious. We will swear on... on... the precious! Gollum! Gollum!

Frodo: The Ring is traitorous. It will hold you to your word.

Gollum: (crawling closer) Yes. On the precious. On the precious...

Sam: I don't believe you!

Sam startles Gollum and he tries to run. Sam pulls sharply on the rope bringing Gollum crashing to the ground, clutching his neck in pain.

Sam: Get down! I said down!

Frodo: (stopping Sam) Sam!

Sam: He's trying to trick us. If we let him go he'll throttle us in our sleep!

Frodo looks at Gollum still trying to catch his breath. He walks to the creature and looks him in the eye.

Frodo: You know the way to Mordor?

Gollum: Yes...

Frodo kneels down to his level, not taking his eyes off him.

Frodo: You've been there before?

Gollum: Yes.

Reluctantly Frodo removes the noose from around Gollum's neck. Gollum is surprised, Sam is concerned.

Frodo: You will lead us to the Black Gate.

Quick as the wind, Gollum leads the two hobbits out of Emyn Muil and on towards the entrance to the Black Land.

EXT - ROHAN - DAY

The remaining band of Uruk-Hai run alongside a small cliff. On the back of two are the captured Hobbits, Merry and Pippin. Pippin is in good health but Merry is unconscious. Pippin attempts to rouse his friend to no avail.

Pippin: Merry? Merry!

The Uruk leader, Ugluk stops and raises his fist, ordering the band to stop.

Uruk: What is it? What do you smell?

Ugluk: (takes a deep sniff) Man flesh.

Pippin: (whispering) Aragorn...

Uruk: They've picked up our trail! Let's move!

Ugluk and the Uruk-Hai continue their charge faster, now knowing that they're being pursued. Pippin pulls at the Leaf of Lorien pendent on his Elvish cloak. He pulls it off and spits it onto the ground as a breadcrumb for their pursuers. An Uruk stamps it into the dirt but it remains very much visible.

EXT - PLAINS - DAY

The rumbling of the Uruk-Hai's charge reaches the ears of Aragorn, who is listening to the vibrations on a stone with his eyes shut. He then opens his eyes and starts to stand.

Aragorn: Their pace has quickened. They must have caught our scent. (calling behind him) Hurry!

Aragorn rushes off followed by Legolas. The elf, still full of energy, calls for their third companion.

Legolas: Come on, Gimli!

As Legolas follows Aragorn, Gimli trails behind clearly exhausted but forcing himself onwards to keep up with the man and the elf.

Gimli: Three days and nights pursuit. No food, no rest, and no sign of our quarry, but what bare rock can tell!

The three hunters run throughout the day and night to catch up to their foes.

EXT - ROHAN - DAY

Aragorn picks up the Leaf from Pippin's cloak from the dirt which is still fresh with footprints.

Aragorn: Not idly do the Leaves of Lorien fall.

Legolas, who had just caught up to Aragorn, stops to look.

Legolas: They may yet be alive.

Aragorn: Less than a day ahead of us. Come!

The two continue their run as Gimli falls into the canyon, clumsily gets back to his feet and continues to trail behind.

Legolas: Come, Gimli! We're gaining on them!

Gimli: I'm wasted on cross country, we dwarves are natural sprinters! Very dangerous over short distances!

Aragorn and Legolas turn the corner of the cliff and see the vast grassland before them. Gimli catches up with them, exhausted.

Aragorn: Rohan, home of the Horse Lords. There is something strange at work here. Some evil gives speed to these creatures, sets it's will against us.

Aragorn, Legolas and Gimli survey the area. Legolas is staring far off into the distance, able to see much further away than a man's eye.

Aragorn: Legolas, what do your elf eyes see?

Legolas: The Uruks turned north-east. They're taking the Hobbits to Isengard!

Aragorn: (to himself, concerned) Saruman.

EXT - ISENGARD - EVENING

The great black tower of Isengard rises from it's new, unrecognizable landscape. Where once there was lash forest and greenery, now there are deep pits of fire, metal and orc pits.

INT - ISENGARD - EVENING

Saruman stands in his audience chamber, eye closed and communicating to the Dark Lord Sauron through the Palantir.

Saruman: (v.o.) The world is changing. Who now has the strength to stand against the armies of Isengard...

We fly into the Palantir to reveal...

EXT - BARAD-DUR - EVENING

The newly rebuild fortress of the Dark Lord and his minions. The vile works going on around it produce agents of evil and instruments of war.

Saruman: (v.o.) ...and Mordor? To stand against the might of Sauron and Saruman, and the union of the Two Towers? Together, my Lord Sauron, we shall rule this Middle-Earth.

We follow the tower of Barad-Dur to the very top and see the Eye of Sauron looking out over his land of smoke and fire.

INT - ISENGARD PITS - NIGHT

The orcs of Saruman continue their work in building his army. The White Wizard walks though the pits to check the work of his creatures. They continue to remove all remaining trees from within the fortress walls, forge weapons and armour, and grow his perfected race of Uruk-Hai, all of which are checked over by the worker orcs, and approved by Saruman himself.

Saruman: (v.o.) The old world will burn in the fires of industry. The forests will fall. A new order will rise. We will drive the machine of war with the sword and the spear and the iron fist of the orc. We have only to remove those who oppose us.

EXT - ISENGARD PITS - NIGHT

Saruman is speaking to the Wildmen of Dunland. Old enemies of Rohan, the wizard looks to recruit them into his army.

Saruman: The horsemen took your lands. They drove you people into the hills to scratch a living off rocks!

Dunlanding: Murderers!

The Wildmen yell in approval.

Saruman: Take back the land they stole from you. Burn every village!

The Dunlanding leader orders his men to charge out of the gate and in the land of the Horselords to reclaim what they believe is theirs.

EXT - ROHAN VILLAGE - DAY

A small village is scurrying to prepare for an incoming attack from the Wildmen. Men are collecting weapons to fight, women are packing to escape, and one mother, Morwen, is ushering her two children, Eothain & Freda to their horse.

Saruman: (v.o.) It will begin in Rohan. Too long have these peasants stood against you, but no more.

Morwen: Eothain! Eothain! (she helps the two children mount Garulf the horse) You take your sister. You'll go faster with just two.

Freda: Papa says Eothain must not ride Garulf, he is too big for him.

Morwen: Listen to me: you must ride to Edoras and raise to alarm. Do you understand me?

Eothain: Yes mama.

Freda: (crying) I don't want to leave. I don't want to go.

Morwen: (her hands on Freda's face) Freda, I will find you there.

She kisses her daughters cheek and hears a scream. She looks to see that the Wildmen have arrived and have begun their attack.

Morwen: Quickly!

The children ride away in tears and escape the village in time. Morwen looks on.

Morwen: Go child.

A short while later, Eothain and Freda look back at their home village. It is now bellowing black smoke. Not knowing whether their mother is alive or dead, they continue their long journey.

Saruman: (v.o.) Rohan, my Lord, is ready to fall.

EXT - EDORAS - DAY

A group of riders, lead by Eomer enter the gates of the King's City of Edoras, a walled settlement perched on a tall hill. Houses cover the hill, with a great hall sitting at the top.

EXT - GOLDEN HALL - DAY

Eowyn, Eomer's sister, runs up the stairs and into the hall

INT - GOLDEN HALL - DAY

She enters a room and sees Eomer keeping vigil over Theodred, the son of King Theoden. He is wounded from an orc attack and barely conscious. Eowyn sits beside him.

Eowyn: Theodred.

The wounded prince turns his head to her but is unable to speak or open his eyes. Eomer gestures to his wounded abdomen, and Eowyn pulls back some clothing. She closes her eyes in despair.

In the main hall, Eowyn and Eomer address King Theoden on his throne. He is gaunt, grey and lifeless, almost as dead in the eyes as his own son.

Eowyn: Your son is badly wounded, my Lord.

Eomer: He was ambushed by orcs. If we don't defend our country, Saruman will take it by force.

Grima: That is a lie.

Grima Wormtongue appears from behind a pillar and takes a standing position next to the throne.

Grima: Saruman the White has ever been our friend and ally

Theoden: (very weakly) Grima... Grima... (Grima kneels down beside him to hear) Grima...

Eomer: Orcs are roaming freely across our lands. Unchecked, unchallenged, killing at will. Orcs bearing the White Hand of Saruman.

Eomer drops an orc helmet he has been holding and Grima stands, seeing the White Hand across the metal. Eomer and Grima stare at each other for a moment but he kneels back towards the King.

Grima: (to Eomer) Why do you lay these troubles on an already troubled mind? Can you not see? Your uncle is wearied by your (turns to Eomer) malcontent, your warmongering.

Eomer: Warmongering?

A moment later, a furious Eomer has dragged Grima against a wall, gripping him by the chin.

Eomer: How long is it since Saruman bought you? What was the promised price, Grima? When all the men are dead, you would take you share of the treasure?

A pair of Rohan guards flank Eomer and place their hands on his shoulders. Eomer releases his grip on Grima, who smiles.

Grima: You see much, Eomer, son of Eomund. Too much.

The Guards punch Eomer in the gut and restrain his arms. He's doubled over and unable to move.

Grima: You are banished forthwith from the Kingdom of Rohan... under pain of death.

Eomer, shocked and angered, make one last attempt to get to Grima, but is taken away.

EXT - ROHAN - AFTERNOON

The band of Uruk-Hai, now joined by a troop of orcs, continue their relentless charge across the plains with Merry and Pippin in tow.

Aragorn, Legolas and Gimli are in pursuit. All exhausted but fighting to catch up.

Gimli: Keep breathing. That's the key. Breathe.

Legolas: They run as if the very whips of their masters were behind them.

Gimli continues to flag behind but the three run regardless, even as the sun sets and night begins to take over.

EXT - FANGORN FOREST - NIGHT

Merry and Pippin are thrown to the ground as the Uruk-Hai and orcs stop their running. They are finally tired.

Orc: We're not going no further till we've had a breather!

Ugluk: Get a fire going!

The monsters disperse. Some sit down, some start to eat, some grab an axe and head over to some nearby trees for firewood. Pippin, with hands and feet bound, crawls over to Merry, who finally starts to wake. He has a nasty wound on his head.

Pippin: Merry. Merry!

Merry: I think we might have made a mistake leaving the Shire, Pippin.

Pippin allows himself a smile, knowing his dear friend is alright. Nearby, the Uruks chop at some trees. As wood starts to come away, some loud moaning is heard coming from the forest.

Pippin: What's making that noise?

Merry: (looking at the forest) It's the trees.

Pippin: What?

Merry: You remember the old forest, on the borders of Buckland? Folk used to say there was something in the water that made the trees grow tall, and come alive.

Pippin: Alive?

Merry: Trees that could whisper, talk to each other, even move!

The orcs and Uruks start to gather, irritated and hungry.

Uruk: I'm starving. We ain't had nothing but maggoty bread for three sticking days!

Orc 2: Yeah! Why can't we have some meat? (he looks at the two Hobbits) What about them? They're fresh.

Ugluk: They are not for eating!

Another Uruk grabs Merry and Pippin from behind, moving them away from the hungry orcs. Another orc, Grishnakh, looks at the two.

Grishnakh: What about their legs? They don't need those. Ooh they look tasty.

Grishnakh attempts to move towards the captives but is quickly shoved back by Ugluk.

Ugluk: Get back, scum!

The two stare at each other ready to fight. Another orc raises it's sword and looks to strike the Hobbits down.

Orc 3: Carve him up. Just a mouthful!

Ugluk: No!

Ugluk quickly draws his sword and beheads the advancing orc. The body falls to the floor, the head bounces off Pippins shoulder.

Ugluk: Looks like meat's back on the menu, boys!

The Uruk-Hai and orcs, roar in approval and throw themselves at the corpse. It's a feeding frenzy as limbs and guts are thrown into the air and the two Hobbits are knocked out of the way. Merry sees an opportunity.

Merry: (whispering) Pippin! Let's go.

Still bound, the Hobbits crawl as fast as they can away from their oblivious captors and towards the forest. Pippin feels a heavy foot on his back and is turned over to face Grishnakh with a dagger drawn. He grabs Pippin by the face.

Grishnakh: Go on. Call for help. Squeal. No-one's gonna save you now.

Out of nowhere, a spear flies into the Grishnakh's back. Wounded he looks behind him towards a Rohan hunting party. They mercilessly wipe out the entire horde. Pippin, unsure what to do, turns onto his back and sees a horse rearing directly above him. Letting out a scream and unable to move through fear, the horse comes down to the ground with a thud.

EXT - ROHAN - MORNING

Aragorn and Gimli continue their run but Legolas stops with a sense of dread.

Legolas: A red sun rises... blood has been spilled this night.

The hunters stop for a moment to get their bearings. A horse whinnies in the distance and Aragorn turns to see riders. The three take cover behind some rocks as some 2000 horsemen charge pass them. Once clear, Aragorn reveals himself and calls out to them.

Aragorn: Riders of Rohan! What news from the Mark?

Eomer, at the head of the party, gestures his men to turn around. Aragorn, Legolas and Gimli quickly find themselves surrounded by horses and held still at the points of spears. They raise their hands in submission. Eomer rides towards them, impatient and angry.

Eomer: What business does an elf, a man and a dwarf have in the Ridemark? Speak quickly!

Gimli: Give me your name, horse master, and I shall give you mine.

Insulted, Eomer hands his spear to another rider and dismounts. Aragorn places a hand on Gimli's shoulder. Eomer walks towards the dwarf and stares him down.

Eomer: I would cut off your head, dwarf, if it stood but a little higher from the ground.

Legolas instantly draws an arrow and points it towards Eomer. The riders strengthen their stance around them, brandishing their spears yet again.

Legolas: You would die before your stroke fell!

Aragorn lowers Legolas' bow arm and turns calmly to Eomer.

Aragorn: I am Aragorn, son of Arathorn. This is Gimli, son of Gloin, and Legolas of the Woodland Realm. We are friends of Rohan, and of Theoden, your King.

Eomer: Theoden no longer recognises friend from foe. Not even his own kin.

Eomer removes his helmet and the rider relax their position, raising their spears in the air.

Eomer: Saruman has poisoned the mind of the King and claimed lordship over his lands. My company are those loyal to Rohan, and for that we are banished. The White Wizard is cunning. He walks here and there, they say, as an old man, hooded and cloaked, (directly at Legolas) and everywhere his spies slip past our nets.

Aragorn: We are no spies. We track a party of Uruk-Hai westward across the plain. They have taken two of our friends captive.

Eomer: The Uruks are destroyed, we slaughtered them during the night.

Gimli: But they were two Hobbits. Did you see two Hobbits with them?

Aragorn: They would be small, only children to your eyes.

Eomer: (regretful) We left none alive. We piled the carcasses and burnt them.

He points the edge of the forest, where a pillar of smoke can be seen. Gimli is despondent.

Gimli: Dead?

Eomer: I am sorry. (beat, Eomer gives a sharp whistle) Hasufel. Arod.

Two horses, one brown, one white are brought over to the three hunters. Eomer hands the reigns over to them.

Eomer: May these horses bear you to better fortune than their former masters. Farewell. (Eomer replaces his helm and mounts his horse) Look for your friends, but do not trust to hope. It has forsaken these lands. (to his men) We ride North!

The riders of Rohan leave Aragorn, Legolas and Gimli to their task to find the Hobbits. They look to the pile of dead in the distance.

EXT - FANGORN FOREST - DAY

Aragorn riding alone, Legolas and Gimli riding together, arrive at the site of the bloody battle the night before. There are Uruks with their heads mounted on spears, weapons and helmets strewn everywhere and at the center, and enormous pile of burnt corpses. The three dismount and look for any sign of their friends. While brushing through the pile, Gimli picks up a belt and turns to Aragorn, distressed.

Gimli: It's one of their wee belts.

Legolas: (speaks in Elvish)

Aragorn, angry, kicks an orc helmet and lets out a cry of pure grief before sinking to his knees.

Gimli: We've failed them.

Aragorn looks at the ground and his ranger instinct takes over as he attempts to retrace the Hobbit's final moments.

Aragorn: A hobbit lay here. And the other.

(FLASHBACK: Pippin screaming as the horse comes down on top of him, but he manages to roll out of the way just in time)

Aragorn brushes through the dry grass.

Aragorn: They crawled. Their hands were bound.

(FLASHBACK: Pippin finds a fallen axe and begins to cut away at the rope around his wrists)

Aragorn picks up a broken piece of rope and stands.

Aragorn: Their bonds were cut.

(FLASHBACK: Pippin unties Merry's bindings and the two run, trying to avoid getting crushed by the charging horses)

Aragorn continues to follow the Hobbit's steps, as do Legolas and Gimli with renewed hope.

Aragorn: They ran over here... they were followed.

(FLASHBACK: Pippin is grabbed from behind by Grishnakh who is on the ground.

Merry: The belt!

Pippin unfastens his belt and frees himself from Grishnakh's hold, who throws the belt down. The Hobbits run towards a wall of trees

Merry: Run!)

The three companions continue to follow.

Aragorn: Tracks lead away from the battle... (they stop and look up) into Fangorn Forest.

Gimli: Fangorn... what madness drove them in there?

The three know the path they must follow to find their friends

INT - FANGORN FOREST - NIGHT

Running through a deep, dark maze of trees and roots, Merry and Pippin take refuge behind a large trunk. Panting, they check to see if they're safe.

Merry: Did we lose him? I think we lost him.

At that moment a growling catches their notice. Grishnakh is searching for them. He turned to see them and they continue running away.

Grisnakh: I'm gonna rip out your filthy little innards! Come here!

Merry: Trees! Climb a tree!

Pippin climbs the nearest tree with Merry close behind. Pippin finds a good foothold while Merry checks to see if they're still being pursued, and it seems as if the coast is clear.

Merry: He's gone.

Merry smiles in relief but is grabbed by the foot and dragged down from the tree. Pippin looks down to see Grishnakh standing over his friend. Merry kicks the orc straight in the nose. He's bloodied but more pissed off than hurt. Merry crawls backward to get away but cannot escape.

Pippin: Merry!

At that moment, the tree hold Pippin opens a pair of eyes and moans as if he'd been rudely awakened. Pippin looks at the newly discovered face in surprise and fear. The tree moves it's head and looks straight at the young Hobbit. Pippin loses his grip and falls but is caught in the tree's hand. Grishnakh is focused on Merry, ready to end him but Merry is all to focus on what's going on behind the orc.

Grisnakh: Let's put a maggot hole in your belly...

The tree raises it's leg from the ground and moves it over the orc. Grishnakh only notices where a piece of dirt falls on his face, at which point he looks up to see a giant tree root crashing down onto him, killing him.

Pippin: Run, Merry!

Merry gets to his feet and runs away but, with longer legs, the tree catches up to him easily and picks up the second Hobbit, bringing them both up to eye level as if to get the measure of them as he walks slowly along.

Treebeard: Little orcs, burarum!

Pippin: (petrified) It's talking, Merry. The tree is talking.

Treebeard: Tree?! I am no tree! I am an Ent.

Merry: (fascinated) A tree herder. A sheppard of the forest!

Pippin: Don't talk to it, Merry. Don't encourage it.

Treebeard: Treebeard, some call me.

Pippin: And whose side are you on?

Treebeard: Side? I am on nobody's side. Because nobody is on my side, little orc. Nobody cares for the woods anymore.

Merry: We're not orcs, we're Hobbits!

Treebeard: Hobbits? Never heard of a Hobbit before. (he begins to tighten his grip in anger) Sounds like orc mischief to me. They come with fire, they come with axes, gnawing, biting, breaking, hacking, burning! Destroyers and usurpers, curse them!

Merry: No, you don't understand! We're Hobbits, halflings, Shire-folk!

Treebeard: Maybe your are, and maybe you aren't. The White Wizard will know.

Pippin: White Wizard?

Merry: (fearful) Saruman...

At that point, Treebeard releases his grip and the Hobbits fall to the ground. They look up to see the White Wizard staring down at them.

EXT - EMYN MUIL - AFTERNOON

Frodo & Sam have caught up with Gollum, who sits perched proudly on top of a rock. They reach him and see that they've come to the end of the stoney maze.

Gollum: See! See! We have lead you out. Hurry, hobbitses, hurry!

Frodo starts down the hill to the next stage of their journey. Sam stares daggers at Gollum, causing him to cower.

Gollum: Nice hobbit.

The three continue on.

EXT - DEAD MARSHES - AFTERNOON

Sam is shocked to step into a deep muddy puddle. He looks around to see a massive marshland over grown with reeds and moss. They view is blocked by a thick layer of fog.

Sam: It's a bog! He's led us into a swamp.

Gollum: Swamp, yes, yes. Come, master. We will take you in safe parts through the mist. I found it, I did, the way through the Marshes. Orcs don't use it. Orcs don't know it. They go round for miles and miles. Come hobbitses. Soft and quick as shadows you must be.

As they walk, they come across some flames in the ponds. By these flames, under the water lay the bodies of soldiers from a previous era; the corpses of the Last Alliance

Sam: There are dead things... dead faces in the water.

Frodo looks down at the bodies.

Gollum: All dead. All rotten. Elves and men and orcses. A great battle long ago. The Dead Marshes. Yes, yes, that is their name! Come hobbits. Don't follow the lights.

They continue to walk but Sam loses his footing in the water, nearly falling in.

Gollum: Careful now! Or hobbits go down to join the dead ones and light little candles of their own.

Sam and Gollum continue walking but Frodo strays off to one of the watery graves, staring directly into the face of one of the decaying soldiers, almost in a trance. He begins to lean forward as if drawn to this figure. Sam turns and seeing Frodo, panics

Sam: Frodo!

Frodo's stare intesifies and the figures eyes suddenly open, looking at Frodo with a milky white gaze. At that moment, the ringbearer falls into the water. Submerged he finds himself screaming silently as a number of skeletal phantoms float towards him, as if to drag him further down. He is grabbed on the shoulder by a single hand and Frodo appears to lose consciousness as he's dragged upwards towards the surface. He regains his composure and spits out water from his mouth as soon as he resurfaces. He turns to see that Gollum pulled him out of danger, and he looks at the creature in disbelief.

Frodo: Gollum?

Gollum: Don't follow the lights! (he crawls away)

Frodo: Gollum...

Sam rushes to his friends side to check on him.

Sam: Mister Frodo! Are you alright?

Frodo doesn't answer, he just looks at his guide.

EXT - DEAD MARSHES - EVENING

Frodo, Sam and Gollum have stopped to get some rest. Sam has taken the chance to get some sleep, but Frodo lays with his eyes open, the Ring in his hand. He stares intently at it, stroking the gold gently with his finger. Lost in his own world, he jumps in surprise when Gollum starts to speak. He quickly puts the ring away and turns to see Gollum looking at nothing in particular, seemingly in his world also.

Gollum: So bright. So beautiful. Our precious.

Frodo: What did you say?

Gollum: Master should be resting. Master needs to keep up his strength.

Frodo stands and slowly walks towards him.

Frodo: Who are you?

Gollum: Mustn't ask us, not it's business. Gollum! Gollum!

Frodo attempts to get in front of Gollum, trying to look into his eyes.

Frodo: Gandalf told me you were one of the river folk

Gollum: (trying to ignore Frodo) Cold be heart in hand in bone. Cold be travelers far from home.

Frodo: He said your life was a sad story.

Gollum: (turning away) They do not see what lays ahead when sun has failed and moon is dead!

Frodo: You were not so very different from a hobbit once, were you... (directly into Gollums face) Smeagol?

Gollums face turns from distain to surprise and recognition. He has not heard his true name in over 500 years.

Gollum: What did you call me?

Frodo: That was your name once, a long time ago

Gollum: My name... my name... (he smiles) Smeagol.

Suddenly the high pitched cry of the Ringwraiths is heard on the wind. Sam jumps at the sound and looks in the direction it came from. Gollum wimpers in fear.

Sam: Black riders!

Gollum: Hide! Hide!

Frodo cries in pain as his wound from the Morgul blade burns anew. He falls to the ground gripping his chest as if he'd been stabbed all over again. He sees that fateful night again in his mind when the Wraith plunges its foul blade into the hobbit.

Sam: (dragging Frodo to a nearby bush) Come on, Frodo, come on!

Gollum: Quick! They will see us! They will see us!

Frodo, Sam and Gollum are well hidden under a bush and they all keep low to avoid being spotted.

Sam: I thought they were dead.

Gollum: Dead? No, you cannot kill them, no!

The Wraith grips hold of its mount's reigns and smells the air, looking for any who might enter the Land of Mordor. Pulling back, the Ringwraith is shown to be riding a Fell Beast; a great black serpent and huge black wings. It flies over the hobbits, loosing another piercing scream which almost deafens the three.

Gollum: Wraiths! Wraiths on wings!

Frodo almost goes into a form of shock, breathing heavily, he starts to instinctively reach for the Ring.

Gollum: They are calling for it! They are calling for the precious!

Frodo's hand is taken by Sam in support, and to stop him from putting the Ring on his finger.

Sam: Mister Frodo, it's alright. I'm here.

The Wraith and the beast cry once more before fly back over the mountains and out of sight.

Gollum: Hurry hobbits. The Black Gate is very close.

INT - FANGORN FOREST - DAY

Gimli comes across a hedge covered in black fluid. He tastes it on his finger before quickly spitting it out.

Gimli: Orc blood.

Aragorn and Legolas search the immediate area of the dimly lit forest. Aragorn notices something on the floor.

Aragorn: These are strange tracks

Gimli: The air is so close in here.

Legolas: (lost in thought) This forest is old... very old. Full of memory... and anger.

A groaning sound is heard and Gimli takes a defensive stance with his axe.

Legolas: The trees are speaking to each other.

Aragorn: Gimli, lower your axe.

Gimli puts his axe down. Legolas notices something and walks a short distance away.

Legolas: (in Elvish) Aragorn, something is out there.

Aragorn walks up next to him.

Aragorn: (in Elvish) What do you see?

Legolas: The White Wizard approaches.

Legolas gestures behind him, indicating that the Wizard is behind them.

Aragorn (whispering) Do not let him speak. He will put a spell on us.

Aragorn places a hand on his sword and begins to draw it. Legolas has an arrow notched in his bow. Gimli tightens his grip on his axe.

Aragorn: We must be quick.

After a moment, the three turn around with weapons at the ready. They face a blinding light which hampers their vision. Gimli throws an axe into the light but it is broken by a man in a white cloak wielding a staff. Legolas' released arrow is also broken. Before Aragorn can make a move, his blade becomes searing hot and glows red, forcing the ranger to drop it. The three hunters shield their eyes as the White Wizard, face obscured looks down at them.

White Wizard: You are tracking the footsteps of two young hobbits.

Aragorn: Where are they?

White Wizard: They passed this way the day before yesterday. They met someone they did not expect. Does that comfort you?

Aragorn: Who are you? Show yourself!

The Wizard steps in front of the light and reveals the face of their fallen comrade, Gandalf the Grey, now cloaked entirely in white with a white staff. The hunter stare in disbelief. Legolas falls to his knees and bows to the Wizard.

Aragorn: It cannot be... you fell.

Gandalf: Through fire, and water

FLASHBACK - On a mountain peak a great blizzard blows. Through the snow and wind, Gandalf and the Balrog battle with sword and fire.

Gandalf: (v.o.) From the lowest dungeon to the highest peak, I fought with the Balrog of Morgoth.

Gandalf raises his sword Glamdring which conducts a lightning bolt. Now glowing, he avoids a blow from the Balrog and plunges the blade into it's chest, electrocuting it and causing it to fall from the peak to a cliff edge, it's fire now extingushed

Gandalf: (v.o.) Until at last, I threw down my enemy and smote his ruin upon the mountainside.

Gandalf rolls onto his back and life appears to drain from his face. From his view, he appears to be travelling through the stars, flying through lights of many colours, possibly to an afterlife.

Gandalf: (v.o.) Darkness took me and I strayed out of thought and time. The star wheeled overhead, and every day was as long as a life-age of the Earth.

Gandalf, now laying in a white plain, suddenly regains life and breathes again.

Gandalf: (v.o.) But it was not the end. I felt life in me again. I have been sent back...

PRESENT - Gandalf sits on a tree branch, finishing his story.

Gandalf: ... until my task is done.

Aragorn: Gandalf...

Gandalf: Gandalf? Yes. That was what they used to call me. (Aragorn nods) Gandalf the Grey. That was my name.

Gimli: (overflowing with joy) Gandalf!

Gandalf: I am Gandalf the White. And I come back to you now at the turn of the tide.

A short while later, Gandalf, Aragorn, Legolas and Gimli walk swiftly to the forest's edge.

Gandalf: One stage of your journey is over, another begins. War has come to Rohan. We must ride to Edoras with all speed.

EXT - FANGORN FOREST - DAY

Gandalf, now covered with a grey cloak to hide his white robes, steps forward an whistles twice into the wind. The sound echos and the sound of a horse neighing is heard. From the crest of a hill runs a glorious white stallion, heading towards the group and stopping just in front of Gandalf.

Legolas: That is one of the Mearas, unless my eyes are cheated by some spell.

Gandalf: Shadowfax. He is the Lord of all horses, and has been my friend through many dangers.

Gandalf approaches his steed with a smile and stroke him.

EXT - ROHAN - DAY

Gandalf, mounted on Shadowfax, and the others, mounted on their horses, ride at full speed across the grass plains of the country of Rohan towards the city of Edoras.

INT - FANGORN FOREST - DAY

Elsewhere in the forest of Fangorn, Treebeard walks through the woods with Merry & Pippin, safe and unhurt, sitting on a pair of branches protruding from the Ent's arms and head.

Treebeard: My home lays deep in the forest near the roots of the mountain. I told Gandalf I would keep you safe, and safe is where I'll keep you. The trees have grown wild and dangerous. Anger festers in their hearts. They will harm you if they can. There are too few of us now. Too few of us Ents left to manage them.

EXT - BLACK GATE - DAY

Frodo and Sam are climbing a steep mountain face. Gollum has reached the peak and looks over towards...

Gollum: The Black Gate of Mordor!

Under the bellowing smoke of the black land is the entrance to Mordor. An enormous pair of black doors adorned with spikes and looked over by a pair of watchtowers. Frodo and Sam have reached the top and look over to the intimidating sight before them.

Sam: Oh, save us. My old gaffer would have a thing or two to say if he could see us now.

Gollum: (approaching Frodo) Master says to show him the way into Mordor, so good Smeagol does as master says so.

Frodo: (regretfully) I did.

Closer inspection of the gate shows a battalion of orcs patrolling all areas of the wall. Nowhere is out of range of their sights.

Sam: That's it then. We can't get past that.

Gollum jumps and hides behind a rock when an army of men, Easterlings, march towards the gate, chanting in time with their footsteps. A pair of horns are blown to announce their arrival and as a signal to let them in. Gollum cowers and covers his ears at the sound of the horns. Behind the gate, a pair of trolls operate the lever to push the gate open. Slowly the Black Gate creaks and opens enough to let the army through.

Sam: Mister Frodo! The gate, it's opening! (Sam crawls on a boulder to get a better view) I can see a way down.

Frodo: Sam, no!

The rock that Sam had perched on slides down the cliff and towards base of the mountain. Frodo quickly follows him down.

Gollum: Master!

Frodo is careful not to catch the eye of the passing force. However, two Easterlings spot the dust kicked into the air by the falling rock and walk over to investigate. Frodo, out of sight, reaches Sam who is trapped under a pile of stones. He's unable to free himself. The soldiers continue to walk towards them. Just before they come into sight, Frodo pulls his elvish cloak over them both and the Easterlings see nothing but rock. Frodo and Sam stay absolutely still and try not to make a sound as the Easterlings check the area. After a moment, the soldiers turn around and rejoin their formation. Once back out of sight, the rock façade is whipped away and the hobbits continue the dig until enough stones are removed for Sam to free himself. The two perch behind a rock, ready to make a dash for the open door.

Frodo: I do not ask you to come with me, Sam.

Sam: I know, Mister Frodo. I doubt even these elvish cloak will hide us in there.

Frodo: Now!

As Frodo and Sam attempt to run, they are immediately pulled back and onto the ground by Gollum.

Gollum: No! No, master. They catch you! They catch you!

Frodo tries to run again but is stopped.

Gollum: (pleading) Don't take it to him! He wants the precious, Always, he is looking for it, (looking towards Mordor) and the precious is wanting to go back to him. (snarling) But we mustn't let him have it.

As the final troops walk through the Gate it begins to close. Frodo makes a final attempt to run to the gap while it's open.

Gollum: No! There is another way. More secret, a dark way.

Sam: Why haven't you spoken of this before?!

Gollum: Because master did not ask!

Sam: (to Frodo) He's up to something.

Frodo: Are you saying there's another way into Mordor?

Gollum: Yes. There is a path, and some stairs, and then a tunnel.

Gollum looks at Frodo then places his head on his arm. Frodo looks back at the gate. It is too far closed now to attempt that way. He turns back to Sam.

Frodo: He's led us this far, Sam.

Sam: Mister Frodo, no.

Frodo: He's been true to his word.

Sam: (pleading) No.

Frodo: (Gollum looks at Frodo, hopeful) Lead the way, Smeagol.

Gollum: Good Smeagol always helps.

Gollum runs off to lead them to their new destination. Sam and Frodo look at each other despairingly. Whether or not it was the right choice, it's too late now. Frodo turns to the Black Gate as it closes.

EXT - ROHAN - DAY

The mounted hunters and wizard crest a hill and look upon Rohan's capital in the distance.

Gandalf: Edoras, and the Golden Hall of Meduseld. There dwells Theoden, King of Rohan...

INT - GOLDEN HALL - DAY

Theoden sits in the same position as we left him, still as unmoving as a corpse and with as much life in his eyes. Eowyn sits beside him, looking into his eyes with her hand in his.

Gandalf: (v.o.)... whose mind is overthrown. Saruman's hold over King Theoden is now very strong.

Eowyn: My Lord? Your son... he is dead. My Lord? Uncle?

Theoden shows no reaction, no emotion at the news.

Eowyn: Will you not go to him? Will you do nothing?

EXT - ROHAN - DAY

Gandalf: Be careful what you say. Do not look for welcome here.

They spurs their horses onwards towards the gates of the city.

INT - GOLDEN HALL - DAY

Eowyn is now at the bed of Theodred, the now deceased son of Theoden. She sits crying at the loss of her cousin and everything that has become of her family. Grima looks in through the doorway towards them and enters.

Grima: (feigning sympathy) Oh he... he must have died some time in the night. What a tragedy for the King to lose his only son and heir. (he sits at the end of the bed) I understand his passing is hard to accept especially now that your brother have deserted you.

Grima places a hand on Eowyn's shoulder but she stands, angered.

Eowyn: Leave me alone, snake!

Grima: Oh but you are alone. (he stands and walks around her) Who knows what you've spoken to the darkness, in the bitter watches of the night, when all your life seems to shrink, the walls of you bower closing in around you. A hutch to trammel some wild thing. (he looks directly into her eyes, and tenderly places his hand on her cheek) So fair. So cold. Like morning of pale spring still clinging to winter's chill.

They look deeply into each other's eyes. Eowyn for a moment believes his words, but shortly sees his manipulation for what it is.

Eowyn: Your words are poison.

She angrily leaves the chamber, leaving Grima alone.

EXT - GOLDEN HALL - DAY

The wind picks up as the doors to the hall fly open and Eowyn steps out into the bright sun. She walks back and forth unsure of what to do with herself. Still with tears in her eyes, she looks down and sees riders she does not recognise moving towards the gate. A tearing is heard and she sees one of the banners of Rohan torn from it's pole, flying outside the walls of the city; a fitting metaphor for the Rohan that has become.

EXT - ROHAN - DAY

Gandalf, Legolas and Gimli enter Edoras through the main gate on horseback. Aragorn is close behind but puases a moment to see the torn banner fall to the ground nearby. The silent and mournful city of Edoras is seen in full view; a city build on a grass hill surrounded by a circle of mountains.

EXT - EDORAS - DAY

The riders go through the city passing it's many citizens who look at them as Gandalf had stated: unwelcoming.

Gimli: You find more cheer in a graveyard.

EXT - GOLDEN HALL - DAY

Now on foot, Gandalf, Aragorn, Legolas & Gimli approach the doors of the King's home. The doors open and out walks Hama and several of the King's guard to meet the travellers.

Hama: I cannot allow you before Theoden King so armed Gandalf Greyhame, by order of Grima Wormtongue.

Gandalf nods to his companions to surrender their weapons. Gandalf hands over Glamdring, Aragorn his sword and dagger, Legolas' his bow, quiver of arrows and knives, and Gimli rather reluctantly parting with his many axes. They stand waiting to be granted entry.

Hama: Your staff.

Gandalf: Oh, you would not part an old man from his walking staff?

Hama reluctantly agrees and the four walk into the hall. It is cold with little light, only a few fires burning. Gandalf holds the arm of Legolas to feign frailty. Theoden remains at the throne at the end of the hall, with Grima sat very close next to him, whispering into his ear. Members of the hall, including Eowyn begin to enter.

Grima: My Lord, Gandalf the Grey is coming

The doors are locked behind the travellers. They are very much outnumbered.

Grima: He's a herald of woe.

Gandalf: The courtesy of your hall has somewhat lessened of late, Theoden King.

Grima: He's not welcome.

Theoden: (weakly) Why... should I welcome you... Gandalf Stormcrow?

Grima: A just question, my liege. (walking toward Gandalf) Late is the hour on which this conjurer chooses to appear. Lathspell, I name him. Ill news is an ill guest.

Gandalf: Be silent! Keep your forked tongue behind your teeth. I have not passed through fire and death to bandy crooked words with a witless worm.

Gandalf holds his staff before Grima's face. He panics and begins to back away.

Grima: His staff... (to the guards) I told you to take the wizard's staff!

Gandalf calmly walks closer to Theoden, while the guards attempt to reach him and take the staff. Aragorn, Legolas & Gimli spring into action, using their fists in leu of weapons to hold back the guards.

Gandalf: Theoden, son of Thengel. Too long have you sat in the shadows.

The guards are defeated. Grima, on the floor, attempts to move but Gimli places his foot on his chest.

Gimli: I would stay still if I were you.

Gandalf: Harken to me!

Theoden looks at Gandalf, giving no more than a murmur. Gandalf raises hand.

Gandalf: I release you from this spell.

Theoden starts a low laugh, but it builds to a stronger voice that he has not sounded in a long time. He sits up straight and looks directly to Gandalf's face, now overly arrogant. The people in the court know this is not the King they follow. It is the Kings body and voice, but the words are of Saruman.

Theoden: (still laughing) You have no power here, Gandalf the Grey!

Gandalf throws aside his grey cloak and reveals that he is now indeed Gandalf the White. Theoden is push back in his seat at the sight of this more mighty wizard.

Gandalf: I will draw you, Saruman, as poison is drawn from a wound.

Gandalf points his staff at Theoden which pushes him back into his throne. Gandalf steps forward, attempting to break the spell cast by Saruman. Eowyn, not knowing what is happening tries to run to her uncle but is held back by Aragorn.

Aragorn: Wait.

Theoden: (grimacing) If I go, Theoden dies.

Gandalf: (pushing with the staff) You did not kill me. You will not kill him.

Theoden: (pushing against the wizard) Rohan is mine!

Gandalf: Be gone.

With one final effort, Theoden lunges towards Gandalf with a cry. Gandalf lifts his staff upwards, sending Theoden back into his throne.

INT - ISENGARD - DAY

Saruman is thrown away from the Palantir and slide several meters backwards. He lifts his head, defeated. His control of Theoden has shattered.

INT - GOLDEN HALL - DAY

The frail King Theoden moans and starts to fall forward. Eowyn breaks Aragorn's grip and runs towards Theoden, catching him before he hits the ground. She sits him on the step and looks into his face. Slowly the grey, sunken features fill out. Colour returns to his face and light returns to his eyes. Theoden has returned. The King looks into the eyes of his niece.

Theoden: I know your face... Eowyn. Eowyn.

An elated Eowyn smiles with tears in her eyes and touches her uncles face. The King turns to see Gandalf.

Theoden: Gandalf?

Gandalf: Breathe the free air again, my friend.

For the first time in who knows how long, Theoden stands and looks upon his hall.

Theoden: Dark have been my dreams of late.

He starts to feel his hands, almost not recognising himself.

Gandalf: Your fingers would remember their old strength better if they grasped your sword.

Hama presents Theoden with his sword. He touches the pommel and draws the sword slowly and carefully while Eowyn looks on with pride. Grima, terrified, tries to escape, but Gimli has a firm grip on his robe. Theoden looks at his reflection in the sword, then looks over to Grima with anger. The servant looks with greater fear.

EXT - GOLDEN HALL - DAY

Two guards physically throw Grima down the stairs of the hall. Reaching the bottom he feels every step causing pain. He crawls backwards trying to escape as he sees Theoden walking with wrath towards his former servent.

Grima: I've only ever served you, my Lord.

Theoden: Your leechcraft would have had me crawling on all fours like a beast!

Grima: Send me not from your sight!

Theoden raises his sword ready to strike Grima down. Before he brings his arm down though, Aragorn stops him.

Aragorn: No, my Lord! No, my Lord. Let him go. Enough blood has been spilt on his account.

Theoden looks at Aragorn, not understanding. Grima gets up to his feet and walks away, barging through the crowd that has gathered.

Grima: Get out of my way!

The people look to the King, surprised to see him, but Theoden looks disorientated as if something is wrong.

Hama: Hail, Theoden King!

The people bow and kneel. Theoden turns to see the members of his house. Then he realises.

Theoden: Where is Theodred? Where is my son?

EXT - ROHAN - AFTERNOON

Theoden and Gandalf stand at a newly built burial site outside the walls of Edoras, the final resting place of Theodred. Theoden solemnly holds up a flower from the grave.

Theoden: Simbelmynë. (he throws the flower down) Ever has it grown on the tombs of my forbears. Now it shall cover the grave of my son. Alas, that these evil days should be mine. The young perish and the old linger, that I should live to see the last days of my house.

Gandalf: Theodred's death was not of your making.

Theoden: No parent should have to bury their child.

Theoden breaks down crying with a hand to his face. He is understandably distraught at the loss of the man who would have one day been King after him.

Gandalf: He was strong in life. His spirit will find it's way to the halls of your fathers.

Theoden continues to wallow in grief while Gandalf says a few words in a higher tongue, bidding Theodred to rest well. As Gandalf turns to leave the King alone, he notices a horse in the distance carrying two small figures; the children Eothane and Freda. The two are clearly tired from their journey. Upon seeing they have been spotted Eothane gives into exhaustion and falls off Garulf.

INT - GOLDEN HALL - AFTERNOON

Some time later, the children are sat at a table eating stew and regaining strength under the eye of Eowyn. Legolas watches the scene, Aragorn sits smoking his pipe and Gimli eats at a seperate table. Theoden sits at his throne pondering the sitation, with Gandalf sat beside him. Eowyn stands.

Eowyn: They had no warning. They were unarmed. Now the wildmen are moving through the Westfold, burning as they go. Rick, cot and tree.

Freda: Where is mama?

Eowyn returns to the children to comfort them.

Gandalf: (to Theoden) This is but a taste of the terro that Saruman will unleash. All the more potent for he is driven now by fear of Sauron. Ride out and meet him, head on. (placing a hand on his arm) Draw him away from your women and children. You must fight.

Aragorn: You have two thousand good men riding North as we speak. Eomer is loyal to you. His men will return and fight of their King.

Theoden stands and walks down the steps, concerned.

Theoden: They will be three hundred leagues from here by now. Eomer cannot help us. (Gandalf attempts to speak) I know what it is you want of me, but I will no t bring further death to my people. I will not risk open war.

Aragorn: Open war is upon you, whether you would risk it or not.

The room turn tense and silent. Theoden turns to Aragorn, angered,

Theoden: When last I looked, Theoden, not Aragorn, was King of Rohan.

The tension increases, only broken by a belch from Gimli who is still eating. Gandalf descends the steps for an answer.

Gandalf: Then what is the King's decision?

Theoden looks away to consider his best course of action.

EXT - EDORAS - AFTERNOON

The citizens of Edoras have gathered to hear an order given by Hama.

Hama: By order of the King, the city must empty. We make for the refuge of Helms Deep. Do not burden yourselves with treasures, take only what provisions you need.

Gandalf, Aragorn, Legolas & Gimli walk with pace towards the stables.

Gimli: Helms Deep! They flee to the mountains when they should stand and fight. Who will defend them if not their King?

Aragorn: He is only doing what he thinks is best for his people. Helms Deep has saved them in the past.

Gandalf: There is no way out of that ravine. Theoden is walking into a trap. He thinks he's leading them to safety, what they will get is massacre.

They stop at Shadowfax's stable door and Gandalf looks at Aragorn.

Gandalf: Theoden has a strong will but I fear for him. I fear for the survival of Rohan. He will need you before the end, Aragorn. The people of Rohan will need you. The defenses have to hold.

Aragorn: They will hold.

Gandalf enters his horse's pen and begins to stroke the animal, lost in thought.

Gandalf: The Grey Pilgrim. That was what they used to call me. Three hundred lives of men I've walked this Earth and now, I have no time.

Gandalf mounts Shadowfax and gets ready to ride out.

Gandalf: Good luck. My search will not be in vain. Look to my coming at first light on the fifth day. At dawn, look to the east.

Aragorn: (nods) Go.

Gandalf spurs the horse onwards and he rides out of Edoras at full speed in search of Eomer and his riders.

INT - GOLDEN HALL - AFTERNOON

The servants are gathering all essential items for the journey to Helms Deep, including several chests of arms and armour. Eowyn puts one of the chests down, opens it and pulls out a sword. She unsheeths it and begins to swing. She bring the sword to circle behind her and the blade meets Aragorn's dagger. She stands in surprise, Aragorn looks down confidently impressed.

Aragorn: You have some skill with a blade.

She spins the sword in a wide circle to break the block and stands defensively for a moment before Aragorn drops his stance. She walks back to the chest and returns the sword back to its scabbard.

Eowyn: Women of this country learned long ago; those without swords can still die upon them. I fear neither death nor pain.

Aragorn: What do you fear, my Lady?

Eowyn: (fearful) A cage. To stay behind bar until used and old age accept them, and all chance of valour has gone beyond recall or desire.

Aragorn: (shakes his head) You are a daughter of Kings. A shieldmaiden of Rohan. (sheathing his dagger) I do not think that will be your fate.

Eowyn bows in admiration to Aragorn as he bows respectfully before leaving.

EXT - ROHAN - MORNING

The city of Edoras experiences a mass exodus as the citizens of the city leave with bags, chests and wagons of everything they need. Theoden turns to the caravan seeing all the people are with him. He turns back and leads his people away.

Grima: (v.o.) Theoden will not stay at Edoras.

INT - ISENGARD - MORNING

Grima has arrived at the quarter of his new master, Saruman. They are discussing their next course of action.

Grima: It's vulnerable, he knows this. He will expect an attack on the city. They will flee to Helms Deep, the great fortress of Rohan.

EXT - ROHAN - MORNING

The caravan of Edoras people are passing slowly alongside a mountain stream.

Grima: (v.o.) It is a dangerous road to take through the mountains. They will be slow.

INT - ISENGARD - MORNING

Grima: (v.o.) They will have women and children with them.

Saruman smiles at the new opportunity.

INT - ISENGARD PITS - MORNING

Saruman walks to a pit filled with wargs, giant wolf-like mounts of the orcs. He confronts their captain, Sharku.

Saruman: Send out your warg riders.

Sharku looks at the wizard and gives a disgusting smile, ready to slaughter.

EXT - GONDOR - DAY

Gollum waits near a cool mountain stream waiting for fish to catch. He spots one, lunges at it but misses. With persistence he follows the flailing fish down the river as Frodo and Sam follow behind.

Sam: Hey stinker, don't go getting to far ahead!

Frodo: (to Sam, standing infront of him) Why do you do that?

Sam: What?

Frodo: Call him names, run him down all the time.

Sam: Because... (turns to look at Gollum, then turns back) Because that's what he is, Mister Frodo. There's naught left in him but lies and deceit. It's the Ring he wants. It's all he cares about.

Frodo: You have no idea what it did to him, what it's still doing to him. (Frodo walks down to look at Gollum) I want to help him, Sam.

Sam: Why?

The fish has gotten away from Gollum, and he's panting but smiling. This corrupted creature looks almost innocent.

Frodo: Because I have to believe he can come back.

Sam: (walking closer) You can't save him, Mister Frodo.

Frodo: (snapping in Sam's face) What do you know about it? Nothing!

Sam shocked at this outburst, slowly walks down the hill. Frodo has immediately calmed down.

Frodo: I'm sorry, Sam. I don't know why I said that.

Sam: (looking at Frodo) I do. It's the Ring. You can't take your eyes off it. I've seen you. You're not eating, you barely sleep. It's taking hold of you, Mister Frodo. You have to fight it.

Frodo: (angered) I know what I have to do, Sam. The Ring was entrusted to me. It's my task. Mine! My own!

Frodo storms off down the hill, Sam calls after him.

Sam: Can't you hear yourself? Don't you know who you sound like?

Frodo either didn't hear or ignored Sam. Either way, he walks off.

EXT - GONDOR - NIGHT

The hobbits have taken shelter in an old ruin. Frodo and Sam are fast asleep, with Frodo holding the Ring in his fist. Gollum sits by on a broken windowsill, appearing to have a conversation with his better half, Smeagol.

Gollum: We wants it. We needs it. Must have the precious. They stole it from us! Sneaky little hobbitses! Wicked, tricksy, false!

He appears to change his attitude. His pupils widen as Smeagol takes over.

Smeagol: No. Not master.

The stance changes again as Gollum regains control.

Gollum: Yes, precious. False! They will cheat you, hurt you, lie!

Smeagol: Master's my friend.

Gollum: You don't have any friends! Nobody likes you.

Smeagol: (covering ears) I'm not listening. I'm not listening!

Gollum: You're a liar. And a thief.

Smeagol: No.

Gollum: Murderer.

Smeagol: (weeping, quietly) Go away.

Gollum: Go away?! (he cackles)

Smeagol: I hate you... I hate you.

Gollum: Where would you be without me? Gollum! Gollum! I saved us! It was me. We survived because of me!

Smeagol: Not anymore.

Gollum: ... What did you say?

Smeagol: Master looks after us now. We don't need you.

Gollum: What?

Smeagol: Leave now, and never come back.

Gollum: (angered) No!

Smeagol: Leave now, and never come back! (Gollum growls in rage but Smeagol stands his ground) Leave! Now! And never come back!

Suddenly all is silent. Smeagol looks around and the voices in his head have been fought off. Gollum has gone.

Smeagol: We... we told him to go away, and away he goes, precious! (he jump to the floor and spins in joy) Gone, gone gone! Smeagol is free!

EXT - GONDOR - DAY

Frodo, Sam and Smeagol have travelled far and are taking a well deserved rest in a dry forest clearing. Frodo has shut his eyes, catching up on sleep. Sam is checking through supplies. Smeagol, having been hunting in the forest, returns and dumps two dead rabbits on Frodo's lap, waking him.

Smeagol: Look! Look, see what Smeagol finds!

Smeagol seems very pleased with his catch. Frodo is also happy but Sam still looks at the creature with distain. Smeagol picks up one of the rabbits and breaks it open, causing Frodo to grimace.

Smeagol: They are young. They are tender. They are nice, yes they are. Eat them, eat them!

He bites into the rabbits neck, trying to tear a piece of flash off. Sam grabs both rabbits.

Sam: You'll make him sick, you will, behaving like that. There's only one way to eat a brace of conies.

A short while later, the rabbits have been turned into a stew which is cooking gently in Sam's pot over a fire. Smeagol wails in despair.

Smeagol: What's it doing?! Stupid, fat hobbit. It ruins it!

Sam: What's to ruin? There's hardly any meat on 'em.

Frodo hears a noise similar to a bird, but not one that he's familiar with.

Sam: What we need is a few good taters.

Smeagol: What's taters, precious? What's taters, eh?

Sam: Po-tay-toes! Boil 'em, mash 'em, stick 'em in a stew? Lovely big golden chips with a nice piece of fried fish. (Smeagol blows a raspberry) Even you couldn't say no to that.

Smeagol: Oh yes we could! Spoil nice fish. (Crawls up to Sam's face) Give it to us raw and wriggling. You keep nasty chips.

Sam: (shaking his head) You're hopeless.

Frodo follows the direction of where the sound came from. Neither of his companions have realised that he's wandered off. Sam looks up from his pot and notices Frodo isn't there.

Sam: Mister Frodo?

Frodo come to a cliff edge and gets down low. In the valley below is an army of men dressed in strange clothing, holding banners he doesn't recognise. Sam and Smeagol crawl up next to him and look down.

Sam: Who are they?

Smeagol: Wicked men. Servants of Sauron. They are called to Mordor. They dark one is gathering all armies to him. It won't be long now, he will soon be ready.

Sam: Ready to do what?

Smeagol: To make his war. The last war that will cover all the world in shadow.

Frodo: We've got to get moving. Come on, Sam.

Frodo starts to move off, but is stopped by Sam.

Sam: Mister Frodo! Look...

Into the valley walks an enormous Mumakil, an elephant-like creature taller than any animal living. It has four tusks and carries on it's back a mount to hold a small battalion of men. Sam stares, almost with a look of wonder.

Sam: It's a oliphant. No-one at home will believe this.

The bird-like sound is heard again. Smeagol hears it and, worried, sneaks away. Frodo turns to find no trace of their guide.

Frodo: Smeagol?

The army below suddenly breaks formation and a barrage of arrows is launched from the trees above. Rangers of Gondor have been watching and waiting for their moment to strike. The arrows panic the Mumak sending him charging towards the cliff the Frodo and Sam are hiding. The captain of the Rangers, Faramir, sees this and fire an arrow, strike the beast's handler, managing to halt the charge. The body of the handler lands nearby to the hobbits.

Frodo: We've lingered here too long.

Frodo stands and walks toward their campsite. Sam stays a moment longer to watch the chaos below. Frodo turns back to him.

Frodo: Come on, Sam!

As Frodo starts off again, he walks straight into a ranger who was hiding in the trees. The ranger restrains Frodo. Sam sees this and draws his sword.

Sam: Oi!

Sam charges but is taken off his feet by another ranger, who holds him at sword-point. Suddenly the pair are surrounded by rangers. Faramir steps forward and takes stock of the hobbits.

Faramir: Bind their hands.

Frodo and Sam are taken away.

EXT - ROHAN - AFTERNOON

The convoy of Edoras' citizens continues through the plains. Many appear to be in good spirits considering the circumstances. Gimli rides his horse while Eowyn holds it's reigns. Aragorn rides a short distance behind next to Theoden.

Gimli: It's true you don't see many dwarf women. And in fact, they're so alike in voice and appearance that they're often mistaken for dwarf men.

Eowyn looks behind her to Aragorn.

Aragorn: (quietly) It's the beards.

He gestures a beard to her and she chuckles, shushing him.

Gimli: And this has given the rise to the belief that there are no dwarf women, and that dwarves just spring out of holes in the ground! (The two laugh) Which is of course ridiculous...

Suddenly, Gimli's horse charges forward and Eowyn loses her grip. The horse runs off and Gimli falls off. Eowyn runs to him, still laughing, as are Aragorn and Theoden.

Gimli: Alright! Alright, no body panic. It was deliberate, it was deliberate.

Eowyn kneels and brushes the dirt and grass off of the dwarf, with nothing hurt but his pride. Eowyn looks back at Aragorn smiling still. He smiles back for a moment at this beautiful women, illuminated by the afternoon sun. His smile slowly fades.

EXT - ROHAN - NIGHT

The convoy has stopped for the night. All are sleeping except Aragorn who is smoking his pipe and deep in his own thoughts.

Arwen: (v.o.) The light of the Evenstar does not wax and wane. It is mine to give to whom I will, like my heart.

Aragorn thinks back to his love, Arwen, and a memory come to him. It is of a day at Rivendell shortly before the Fellowship departs on their quest.

FLASHBACK - Aragorn has his eyes closed on a white bed. It is situated on a balcony overlooking the Hidden Valley of Rivendell

Arwen: (v.o.) Go to sleep.

Aragorn: I am asleep.

Aragorn opens his eyes and sees the elf princess sitting at the end of his bed.

Aragorn: This is a dream.

Arwen: Then it is a good dream. (they kiss) Sleep.

She stands and goes to the balcony, looking over her home. Aragorn opens his eyes again.

Aragorn: (in elvish) You once told me that this day would come.

Arwen: (in elvish) This is not the end, it is the beginning. You must go with Frodo. That is your path.

Aragorn stands and walks to her side.

Aragorn: (in elvish) My path is hidden from me.

Arwen: (in elvish) Your path is laid out beneath your feet. You cannot falter now.

Aragorn: Arwen...

Arwen places her hand on Aragorn's mouth and as she speaks move it down to the pendent around his neck; the Evenstar that she gifted to him.

Arwen: (in elvish) If you find you cannot trust in yourself, trust in this. Trust in us.

They touch faces tenderly and eventually kiss passionately

PRESENT DAY

EXT - ROHAN - DAY

Aragorn, still in thought, walks in the convoy holding his horse by the reigns. Eowyn walks beside him and notices the pendent.

Eowyn: Where is she, the woman who gave you that jewel?

Aragorn does not answer, instead drifts back into a memory

FLASHBACK - Elrond speaks to Aragorn before the Fellowship leaves Rivendell.

Elrond: Our time here is ending. Arwen's time is ending. Let her go. Let her take the ship into the west. Let her bare away her love for you to the Undying Lands, there it will be evergreen.

Aragorn: But no more than a memory.

Elrond: (forceful) I will not leave my daughter here to die.

Aragorn: She stays because she still has hope...

Elrond: (interupting) She stays for you! She belongs with her people!

A short while later, Aragorn speaks with Arwen.

Aragorn: (in elvish) You have a chance for another life. Away from war, grief, despair.

Arwen: (hurt and confused) Why are you saying this?

Aragorn: I am mortal. You are elf-kind. It was a dream, Arwen. Nothing more.

Aragorn offers the Evenstar back to Arwen

Aragorn: This belongs to you.

Arwen looks into his eyes and closes his hand around the pendent.

Arwen: It was a gift. Keep it.

PRESENT DAY

Eowyn: My lord?

Aragorn leaves his thoughts but does not look at Eowyn.

Aragorn: She is sailing to the Undying Lands with all that is left of her kin.

The long walk continues. Gamling and Hama ride to the front of the caravan. On a cliffside, Legolas is keeping a watchful eye for potential threats. Hama's horse becomes spooked.

Gamling: What is it? Hama?

Hama: I'm not sure.

Neither of them notice the enormous wolf-like monster perched on the cliff above them. The warg of Isengard, mounted by an orc scout, spurred on by it's rider, jumps down and attacks the two men. Hama is knocked off of his horse. He looks in fear as the warg takes him in it's jaws and throws him around and away.

Gamling: Warg!

Gamling draws his sword and battles the mounted orc. Legolas, running down the hill, fires an arrow into the warg, killing it and throwing the orc from it's mount. The orc screams as his sees Legolas running towards him, knife drawn. Aragorn runs over the hill to see the scene.

Legolas: A scout!

Aragorn runs back to the convoy and towards his horse. Theoden rides to him.

Theoden: What is it? What do you see?

Aragorn: Wargs! We're under attack!

The citizens in the convoy start to panic. Theoden rides to the front.

Theoden: All riders to the head of the column!

All mounted soldiers ride to the front. Gimli struggles to mount his horse.

Gimli: Come on, get me up here. I'm a rider. Come on!

Legolas runs to the peak of a hill and sees a huge horde of warg riders charging towards the citizens. Back at the caravan, Theoden rides up next to Eowyn.

Theoden: You must lead the people to Helms Deep. And make haste!

Eowyn: I can fight.

Theoden: No! You must do this, for me.

Eowyn agrees and Theoden turns his horse around to join the battle.

Theoden: Follow me! Hyah!

Eowyn guides the people away from the fight while Gimli struggles with his reversing horse.

Gimli: Forward... charge forward.

Eowyn: Make for the lower ground! Stay together!

Gimli finally gets his horse moving in the right direction, and joins the riders. Aragorn has mounted his horse and shares a look with Eowyn, who watches him ride into battle. Legolas, with expert precision, launches an arrow from his bow, which takes out a warg. He takes out two more as the Riders of Rohan come up behind him. Legolas take reigns of the horse ridden by Gimli and swings on to mount. The riders from both sides charge at full speed at each other, clash together in bloody combat. The men fight valiantly but Gimli falls off of his horse. Upon standing, he picks up his axe and comes face to face with a warg, who is feasting on a dead horse.

Gimli: Bring your pretty face to my axe!

The warg charges at Gimli but before they clash, Legolas comes up from behind and shoots the wolf dead. Gimli is annoyed.

Gimli: (to Legolas) That one counts as mine!

Another warg attacks Gimli. He plants his axe in its skull and the creature falls down dead on top of the dwarf, trapping him. As the battle rages on, Aragorn and Theoden dispose of several enemies. Gimli tries to lift the warg off of him.

Gimli: Stinking creature.

An orc appears from behind the warg, draws a dagger ready to kill Gimli, but the dwarf moves his hands quickly to his assailant's hand and snaps its neck. It falls dead on top of Gimli, giving off an even worse smell. With the battle still going, Gimli attempts to free himself again but this time a lone warg finds him trapped. Aragorn spots this and picks up a spear. Just before the warg attacks, Aragorn throws the spear into its back killing it. Gimli moans in pain. Elsewhere Theoden fights skillfully, slicing an orc and stabbing a warg in the mouth. Aragorn mounts a wolf ridden by the captain Sharku. They fight and Aragorn loses his seat. He grips onto the saddle, draws his dagger and stabs Sharku in the chest. The orc grabs hold of Aragorn but he throws Sharku rolling onto the ground. The warg is running headlong towards a sheer drop and Aragorn is stuck onto the harness. The warg tries to stop too late and the two fall. With the battle coming to an end, Gimli brings his axe down onto a wounded wolf. The remaining warg riders are retreating and the Riders of Rohan are counting the cost of the battle. Legolas surveys the field.

Legolas: Aragorn!

Gimli looks around. Aragorn is nowhere to be seen.

Gimli: Aragorn?

The two go to the cliff-edge. Sharku is laying nearby, barely alive but laughing. Gimli holds his axe to the orc's neck.

Gimli: Tell me what happened and I will ease your passing.

Sharku: He's... dead! He took a little tumble off the cliff

He continues to laugh. Legolas, angered, grabs the orc and pulls him to his face.

Legolas: You lie!

Sharku's laugh turns to a rattle as he finally dies. Legolas lets go of the corpse and notices something in its hand; Aragorn's Evenstar pendent. He takes it from the orc and walks again to the cliff-edge. He looks down to see a raging river. Theoden walks next to him to look. Gamling comes behind the King.

Theoden: (to Gamling) Get the wounded on horses. The wolves of Isengard will return. Leave the dead.

Legolas turns to the King in shock. Theoden places his hand on the elf's shoulder.

Theoden: Come.

Theoden walks away as Legolas and Gimli look down at where their leader fell to his death.

EXT - ROHAN - AFTERNOON

The Edoras caravan walks with greater pace towards a welcome sight: the fortress of Helms Deep. Eowyn stops and looks at their salvation and a woman walks up to her.

Woman: We're safe, my lady! Thank you!

They continue on.

EXT - HELMS DEEP - AFTERNOON

The fortress, built into the mountainside, has a large wall situated on the side known as the Deeping Wall, and a huge tower, the Hornburg, over the fortress itself. It has never fail to fight back an invading force. It is currently the home for hundreds of refugees fleeing the lands under attack by Saruman's forces. The children, Eothain and Freda are running through the crowd, reuniting with their mother Morwen. The gates open again.

Soldier: Make way for Theoden!

Soldier 2: Make way for the King!

Theoden and the surviving riders travel through the fortress and up to the main hall's entrance where he is greeted by Eowyn.

Eowyn: So few. So few of you have returned.

Theoden dismounts, assisting a wounded man.

Theoden: Our people are safe. We have paid for it with many lives.

Gimli walk up to Eowyn looking sombre.

Gimli: My lady.

Eowyn: Lord Aragorn... where is he?

Gimli: (beat, in tears) He fell.

Eowyn is shocked at the news. Her eyes wander to Theoden, who looks at her saddened but continues regardless. Later, Theoden is on the Deeping Wall strategizing with his men.

Theoden: Draw all our force behind the wall, bar the gate and set a watch on the surround. Saruman's arm would have grown long indeed if he thinks he can reach us here.

Theoden and his men descend the stairs on the wall, passing civilians and a small grate, allowing water to pass from the mountains to the outside of the fortress.

Grima: (v.o.) Helms Deep has one weakness. It's outer wall is solid rock, but for a small culvert at it's base which is little more than a drain.

INT - ISENGARD - AFTERNOON

Saruman is finishing a device for his army; a large metal sphere filled with black chips (effectively, a bomb). Grima approaches with curiosity holding a lit candle.

Grima: How? How can fire undo stone? What kind of device can bring down the wall?

Saruman grabs the candle before it gets too close. Saruman walks through towards the balcony with Grima close behind.

Saruman: If the wall is breached, Helms Deep will fall.

Grima: Even if it is breached, it would take a number beyond reckoning, thousands to storm the keep!

Saruman: Tens of thousands.

Grima: But my lord, there is no such force.

EXT - ISENGARD - AFTERNOON

Arriving at the balcony, Saruman and Grima see and hear the massive force of Uruk-Hai, tens of thousands, roaring and blowing war horns, armed and armoured with heavy shields and long spears, in formation, ready to march on Rohan. Grima is stunned at the force before him. Saruman addresses his army.

Saruman: A new power is rising! It's victory is at hand! (Uruks roar) This night, the land will be stained with the blood of Rohan! March to Helms Deep, leave none alive! TO WAR!!!

The Uruk-Hai army roar loudly and begin their march.

Saruman: There will be no dawn for men.

The gates of Isengard are open, and the army streams out holding White Hand banners. A never-ending line of black marching to end the reign of men over Rohan.

EXT - FANGORN FOREST - AFTERNOON

Merry and Pippin, still riding Treebeard are still travelling. Pippin looks and sees pillars of smoke.

Pippin: Look, there's smoke to the south.

Treebeard: There is always smoke rising from Isengard these days.

Merry: Isengard?

Treebeard: There was a time when Saruman would walk in my woods. But now, he has a mind of metal and wheels. He no longer cares for growing things.

Merry climbs higher to get a better very of Saruman's lair. He sees the thousands of Uruk-Hai leaving the fortress and out into the world.

Pippin: What is it?

Merry: It's Saruman's army. The war has started.

EXT - ROHAN - DAY

In a mountain stream, Aragorn, unconscious and barely clinging to life drifts down and eventually settles on the river bank. In his mind, he sees Arwen in Rivendell. While laying by the river, Arwen appears to come to him and kiss him, almost bringing him back to life. He opens his eyes just before she fades away.

Arwen: (v.o.) May the grace of the Valar protect you.

Still weak, Aragorn remains laying as a lone horse walks up to him. The horse, Brego, sniffs and nussles Aragorn's face.

Aragorn: (weakly) Brego...

Brego kneels down next to Aragorn, low enough for the ranger to mount him. They two ride slowly back to Helms Deep.

INT - RIVENDELL - NIGHT

Arwen lays on her bed. Elrond appears at her doorway. She sits up.

Elrond: (in elvish) Arwen. It is time. It is time. The ships are leaving for Valinor. Go now before it is too late.

Arwen: I have made my choice.

Elrond: (walking to Arwen) He is not coming back. Why do you linger here when there is no hope?

Arwen: There is still hope.

Elrond turns away, looking into the future.

Elrond: If Aragorn survives this war, you will still be parted. If Sauron is defeated and Aragorn made King, and all that you hope for come true, he will still have to taste the bitterness of mortality. Whether by the sword or the slow decay of time, Aragorn will die.

VISION - Arwen is looking over the body of Aragorn, who has attained a great age but has at last succumbed. She cries as other men and women walk by to pay their respects.

Elrond: (v.o.) And there will be no comfort for you. No comfort to ease the pain of his passing.

Arwen remains as the body becomes a tomb, veiled in black and still inconsolable.

Elrond: (v.o.) He will come to death, an image of the splendor of the kings of Men in glory undimmed before the breaking of the world. But you, my daughter, you will linger on in darkness and in doubt as nightfall in winter that comes without a star.

Arwen then walks through a dark but thin forest.

Elrond: (v.o.) Here you will dwell, bound to your grief under the fading trees, until all the world is changed and the longer years of your life are utterly spent.

PRESENT DAY

Arwen struggles to hold her emotions and cries.

Elrond: Arwen. There is nothing for your here. Only death.

Elrond goes to sit next to his daughter to comfort her.

Elrond: (in elvish) Do I not also have your love?

Arwen: (in elvish) You have my love, father.

They hold each other, Arwen crying in her father's arms.

Later a group of elves are cloak and leaving Rivendell, Arwen being one of them. As she walks, she looks back up towards Elrond a final time before she leaves through the gate. Elrond is left alone, and Galadriel speak to him telepathically.

Galadriel: (v.o.) I amar prestar aen... han mathon ne nen, han mathon ne chae, a han nostan ned gwilith. The power of the enemy is growing.

INTERCUT - The armies of Sauron are being watched over by the great Eye.

Galadriel (v.o.) Sauron will use his puppet, Saruman...

INTERCUT - Saruman is communicating with his master through the Palantir.

Galadriel: (v.o.)... to destroy the people of Rohan.

INTERCUT - Saruman's Uruk-Hai army marches across Rohan.

Galadriel: (v.o.) Isengard has been unleashed.

INTERCUT - The Eye of Sauron look out over the mountains and to the city of Osgiliath.

Galadriel: (v.o.) The Eye of Sauron now turns to Gondor, the last free Kingdom of men. His war on this country with come swiftly. He senses the Ring is close.

INTERCUT - Frodo and Sam are blindfolded, being led by Faramir and the Rangers of Gondor.

Galadriel: (v.o.) The strength of the ringbearer is failing. In his heart, Frodo begins to understand...

Elrond sees Galadriel as clear as day in front of him. He stands, conflicted.

Galadriel: The quest will claim his life. You know this. You have foreseen it. It is the risk we all took.

INTERCUT - The Ring turns in the fire, the rangers continue leading the hobbits to their base.

Galadriel: (v.o.) In the gathering dark, the will of the Ring grows strong. It works hard now to find its way back into the hands of men. Men, who are so easily seduced by its power. The young captain of Gondor has but to extend his hand, take the Ring for his own and the world will fall. It is close now, so close to achieving its goal.

INTERCUT - The Eye of Sauron burns at the top of Barad-Dur

Galadriel: (v.o.) For Sauron with have dominion over all life on this Earth even unto the ending of the world.

Galadriel's eyes stare directly at Elrond, who remains frustrated.

Galadriel: (v.o.) The time of the elves is over. Do we leave Middle-Earth to its fate? Do we let them stand alone?

INT - HENNETH ANNUN - DAY

A map is laid onto a table. Faramir and Madril look over and discuss their situation.

Faramir: What news?

Madril: Our scouts report Saruman has attacked Rohan. Theoden's people have fled to Helms Deep. But we must look to our own borders. Faramir, orcs are on the move. Sauron is martialing an army. Easterlings and Southrons are passing the Black Gate.

Faramir: How many?

Madril: Some thousands, more come every day.

Faramir: Who's covering the river to the north?

Madril: We pulled 500 men at Osgiliath, but if the city is attacked, we won't hold it.

Faramir looks at the map. He is concerned.

Faramir: Saruman attacks from Isengard. Sauron from Mordor. This fight will come to men of both fronts. Gondor is weak. Sauron will strike us soon, and he will strike hard. He knows we do not have the strength to repel him.

Elsewhere in the base, Frodo and Sam have their blindfolds taken off. They look around and find themselves in a cave hidden behind a waterfall. The rangers go about their business, preparing for their next attack or resting. Faramir walks up to the hobbits and stands before them.

Faramir: My men tell me that you are orc spies.

Sam: Spies? Now wait just a minute...

Faramir: Well if you're not spies, then who are you?

Frodo and Sam look at each other, thinking carefully before they answer. Faramir sits and look at them, eye-level.

Faramir: Speak.

Frodo: We are hobbits of the Shire. Frodo Baggins is my name, and this is Samwise Gamgee.

Faramir: Your bodyguard?

Sam: His gardener.

Faramir: And where is your skulking friend? The gangrel creature. He had an ill-favoured look

Frodo: (trying not to give himself away) There was no other.

Sam looks at Frodo. Faramir looks too, somewhat unconvinced.

Frodo: We set out from Rivendell with seven companions. One, we lost in Moria. Two were my kin. A dwarf there was also, and an elf, and two men; Aragorn, son of Arathorn, and Boromir of Gondor.

Faramir's expression changes at hearing that name; a combination of anger and sadness.

Faramir: You're a friend of Boromir?

Frodo: Yes... for my part.

Faramir stands and paces for a moment.

Faramir: It would grieve you, then, to learn that he is dead.

Frodo: (shocked) Dead? How? When?

Faramir: As one of his companion, I'd hoped you would tell me. (beat) He was my brother.

INT - HENNETH ANNUN - NIGHT

Faramir sits alone by an underground stream, reminiscing about his lost brother, the battles they had fought, and the broken horn he had found by the riverbank. Madril interrupts the captain's solitude and walks to his side.

Madril: Captain Faramir. (whispering) We found the third one.

Faramir walks to Frodo and Sam, asleep in a cell. Frodo wakes to see him standing over them.

Faramir: You must come with me. Now.

EXT - HENNETH ANNUN - NIGHT

Faramir leads Frodo to an opening in the cave heading outside. The stand alongside a waterfall which pours into a pool down below. Faramir looks down then turns to Frodo.

Faramir: Down there.

Frodo approaches the edge of the rockface and, looking down into the pool, he sees Smeagol diving into the water. When he surfaces again his has a fish in hand.

Faramir: To enter the forbidden pool pays the penalty of death.

Faramir gestures to either side of the ledge. Frodo looks and sees rangers, bows in hand and drawing arrows aimed at Smeagol. Frodo is unsure what to do.

Faramir: They wait for my command. Shall I shoot?

Faramir begins to raise his hand. Bringing it down will signal the archers to fire. Staring directly at the hobbit, his arm continues to rise as Frodo watches Smeagol deal with his catch.

Smeagol: (singing) The rock and pool is nice and cool, so juicy sweet. Our only wish, to catch a fish, so juicy sweet!

Smeagol smacks the fish against a rock and goes to eat it. The fish isn't quite dead and attempts to wiggle free, but Smeagol keeps hold and smacks it a few more times. Frodo stands staring at Smeagol, panicking. Just before Faramir gives the order...

Frodo: Wait. This creature is bound to me. And I to him. He is our guide. Please, let me go down to him.

A moment later, Smeagol is still at the pool feasting on his fish. Frodo approaches him but keeps his distance.

Frodo: Smeagol! Master is here.

Smeagol stops eating and looks to Frodo.

Frodo: Come, Smeagol. Trust master. Come!

Smeagol: (somewhat unsure) We must... go now?

Frodo: Smeagol, you must trust master. Follow me, come on! Come.

Smeagol puts the fish in his mouth and crawls to Frodo on all fours, holding his fish like a dog with his favourite toy. Frodo draws further backwards past some bushes, beckoning Smeagol to follow him.

Frodo: Come, Smeagol. Nice, Smeagol. That's it, come on.

Smeagol screams at the two rangers that jump out of the bushes and grab him. Gollum starts to flail around, trying to get free but the ranger firmly restrain him.

Frodo: (to the rangers) Don't hurt him! (to Smeagol) Smeagol, don't struggle! Smeagol, listen to me!

Smeagol looks at Frodo with sadness and fear.

Smeagol: Master!

A bag is put over Smeagol's head and he's taken away. Frodo looks up and sees Faramir looking down, stern. He turns and walks away.

INT - HENNETH ANNUN - NIGHT

The rangers have taken Smeagol into a room to interogate him. He's thrown to the ground and he lays down, curled in a ball, crying in fear and pain. Faramir walks in.

Faramir: Where are you leading them? (Smeagol cries) Answer me!

He gets no response. Smeagol just lays curled up and weeps into his arms. Soon though, his posture and attitude changes.

Gollum: Smeagol... (Smeagol cries again) Why does it cry, Smeagol?

Smeagol: Cruel men hurtsed us. Master tricksed us!

Gollum: Of course he did. (cry) I told you he was tricksy. I told you he was false.

Smeagol: Master is our friend! Our friend!

Gollum: Master betrayed us.

Smeagol: No, not it's business! Leave us alone!

Gollum becomes aggressive, smacking his fist against the floor. Faramir and his men look on, perplexed and curious.

Gollum: Filthy little hobbitses! They stole it from us!

Smeagol: No... no!

Faramir: What did they steal?

Gollum sits up and slowly turns to the men with fury in his eyes.

Gollum: My... precious! Ahhhh!

Elsewhere, obvious to the interrogation, Frodo and Sam sit in their cell. Frodo is sitting looking dejected.

Sam: We have to get out of here. You go. Go now. (crawling to Frodo) You can do it. Use the Ring, Mister Frodo, just this once. Put it on. Disappear.

Frodo: I can't. You were right, Sam. You tried to tell me but... I'm sorry. (in fear) The Ring is taking me, Sam. If I put it on, he'll find me! He'll see...

Sam: Mister Frodo...

The cell door opens and Faramir walks in, drawing his sword. The hobbits stand with their backs to the wall as the captain menacingly walks towards them.

Faramir: So, this is answer to all the riddles. Here in the wild I have you. Two halflings, and a host of men at my command...

Faramir uses the point of his sword to pull the Ring out from under Frodo's shirt.

Faramir: And the Ring of Power within my grasp. A chance for Faramir, Captain of Gondor, to show his quality.

Frodo closes his eyes, breathing heavily. Faramir stares at the Ring, admiring it. Frodo then opens his eyes angrily.

Frodo: No!

He slaps Faramir's sword away and runs into a corner, gripping the Ring tightly. Sam is distressed and turns to Faramir.

Sam: Stop it! Leave him alone! Don't you understand? He's got to destroy it! That's where we're going; into Mordor, to the mountain of fire.

Madril quickly enters and speaks into Faramir's ear.

Madril: Osgiliath is under attack. They call for reinforcments.

Sam: Please. It's such a burden. Will you not help him?

Madril: Captain?

Faramir: Prepare to leave.

Madril exits and Faramir stares resolute at the two halflings.

Faramir: The Ring will go to Gondor.

Frodo turns around afraid, Sam looks helpless.

EXT - ROHAN - MORNING

Aragorn has been riding Brego for many miles. He strength has slowly returned but they have many miles to go. Coming over the crest of a hill, Aragorn looks out and sees Saruman's army marching his way. After taking stock of the force, he turns and they ride at a gallop. The two finally reach their destination; Helms Deep. Aragorn pats the horse and thanks him.

EXT - HELMS DEEP - MORNING

Aragorn rides through the gates of the fortress. A crowd gathering surprised and gladdened that he is alive. Gimli starts to battle through the crowd.

Gimli: Where is he? Where is he? Let me through, I'm gonna kill him!

Gimli reaches his friend who has now dismounted the horse, and the dwarf begins to well up.

Gimli: You are the luckiest, the canniest and the most reckless man I ever knew. (the two embrace) Bless you, laddie.

Aragorn: Gimli, where is the King?

Gimli gestures towards the main hall and Aragorn makes his way. The doorway is blocked by Legolas.

Legolas: (in elvish) You're late. (looking down Aragorn, in common) You look terrible.

Aragorn chuckles and they greet each other. Eowyn, who has been helping with the people, turns and sees Aragorn. She gets up an runs closer but stays away, admiring him from afar. Legolas hands the Evenstar back to Aragorn, who nods in gratitude.

INT - HELMS DEEP - MORNING

Theoden is sitting on his throne looking pensive, when the doors are thrown open and Aragorn enters. Later, Theoden is standing as Aragorn has told the King what he has seen. Legolas and Gimli

Theoden: A great host, you say?

Aragorn: All Isengard is emptied.

Theoden: How many?

Aragorn: Ten thousand strong, at least.

Theoden turns to Aragorn with a look of disbelief.

Theoden: Ten thousand?

Aragorn: It is an army bred for a single purpose: to destroy the world of men. They will be here by nightfall.

Theoden stops a moment to think, then walks to the doors.

Theoden: Let them come.

EXT - HELMS DEEP - DAY

The people of Rohan are preparing the defenses as Theoden gives orders to Gamling.

Theoden: I want every man and strong lad able to bear arms to be ready for battle by nightfall.

Gamling goes about his duties. Theoden, Aragorn, Legolas & Gimli make their way to the main gate and causeway.

Theoden: We shall cover the causeway and the gate from above. No army has ever breached the Deeping Wall, or set foot inside the Hornberg.

Gimli: This is no rabble of mindless orcs. These are Uruk-Hai. Their armour is thick and their shields broad.

Theoden: I have fought many wars, master dwarf. I know how to defend my own keep.

Theoden walks past Gimli and they follow Theoden onto the upper walls in front of the main hall.

Theoden: They will break upon this fortress like water on rock. Saruman's hoards will pillage and burn. We've seen it before. Crops can be resewn. Homes rebuilt. Within these walls, we will outlast them.

Aragorn: They do not come to destroy Rohan's crops or villages, they come to destroy it's people, down to the last child.

Theoden turns and comes face to face with Aragorn, talking quietly but firmly.

Theoden: And what would you have me do? Look at my men. Their courage hangs by a thread. If this is to be our end, then I would have them make such an end as to be worthy of remembrance.

Theoden turns to leave but Aragorn stops him.

Aragorn: Send out riders, my lord. You must call for aid.

Theoden: And who will come? Elves? Dwarves? We are not so lucky in our friends as you. The old alliances are dead.

Aragorn: Gondor will answer.

Theoden: (angered) Gondor? Where was Gondor when the Westfold fell? Where was Gondor when our enemies closed in around us? Where was Gon... (calms himself) No, my lord Aragorn. We are alone.

Theoden leaves the three on the wall and heads towards the keep. He is flanked by Gamling.

Theoden: Get the women and children into the caves.

Gamling: We need more time to lay provisions...

Theoden: There is no time! War is upon us!

The people of Rohan prepare for a siege, all while a flock of crebain fly overhead.

INT - FANGORN FOREST - DAY

Treebeard, Merry and Pippin continue their long slow walk, close to their destination.

Treebeard: The ents have not troubled about the wars of men and wizards for a very long time. But now, something is about to happen that has not happened for an age.

They come to a small clearing in the forest. A circle of stones and a view of the sky, a change from the thick canopy of trees they had been travelling through.

Treebeard: Entmoot.

Merry: What's that?

Treebeard: Tis a gathering.

Slowly, the hobbits notice trees moving towards them. More ents of various types of tree gather round. They look in curiosity at the hobbits. Treebeard is pleased.

Treebeard: Oak, beech, chestnut, ash. Good, good good, many have come. Now we must decide if the ents will go to war.

Merry and Pippin look at each other. Hoping for the best, fearing the worst.

INT - GLITTERING CAVES - EVENING

As the men prepare for the coming battle, the women and children, led by Eowyn, make their way to the relative safety of the Glittering Caves, a large cavern filled with stalagmites and stalactites, that shine as if they were filled with diamonds. Many look in awe at their refuge, many more look for a place to settle down.

INT - HELMS DEEP - EVENING

The men arm themselves with all the weapons and armour available. Aragorn checks the swords and looks at the sorry sight around him. Gimli and Legolas help.

Aragorn: Farmers, farriers, stable boys. These are no soldiers.

Gimli: Most have seen too many winters.

Legolas: Or too few. Look at them. They're frightened. I can see it in their eyes.

The preparation stops as all look at Legolas in response to his slight.

Legolas: (in elvish) And they should be. 200 against 10,000?

Aragorn: (in elvish) They have more hope of defending themselves here than in Edoras.

Legolas: (in elvish) Aragorn. They cannot win this fight. They are all going to die!

Aragorn: (face to face with Legolas) Then I shall die as one of them!

A tense moment passes before Aragorn storms off. Legolas starts to pursue him but is stopped by Gimli's hand.

Gimli: Let him go, lad. Let him be.

In the main hall, Theoden stands in the empty room. Gamling enters with the King's armour.

Gamling: Every villager able to wield a sword has been sent to the armoury.

Theoden doesn't respond. He appears lost.

Gamling: My lord?

Theoden: Who am I, Gamling?

Gamling: You are our King, sire.

Theoden: And you trust your King?

Gamling: Your men, my lord, shall follow you to whatever end.

Gamling begins dressing the King in his battlewear.

Theoden: To whatever end...

INTERCUT - The Uruk-Hai army continues tirelessly on their march

Theoden: Where is the horse and the rider? Where is the horn that was blowing?

INTERCUT - A soldier sharpens his sword, a helmet is placed on a small boy.

Theoden: They have passed like rain on the mountain. Like wind in the meadow.

INTERCUT - The Uruks march uphill, not slowing.

Theoden: The days have gone down in the West, behind the hills, into shadow.

INTERCUT - The Rohan people pick up their weapons.

Theoden: How did it come to this?

Gamling finishes his work.

EXT - HELMS DEEP - NIGHT

Soldiers are running back and forth making final preparations for the defense of the fortress. Aragorn sits alone and notices a boy looking at him, then turns away.

Aragorn: Give me your sword.

The boy looks back at him, walks over and hands his sword to the ranger.

Aragorn: What is your name?

Halith: Halith, son of Hama, my lord. The men are saying that we will not live out the night. They say that it is hopeless.

Aragorn looks at him, stands and begins to swing the sword, testing it's weight, speed and balance. He looks back to Halith and gives him the sword.

Aragorn: This is a good sword, Halith, son of Hama. (placing hand on his shoulder, eye to eye with him) There is always hope.

INT - HELMS DEEP - NIGHT

Aragorn prepares himself, dressing in chainmail, leather bracers, knife, but his sword has been removed from the table. Legolas stands beside him and hands him the sword. Aragorn accepts it.

Legolas: We have trusted you this far, you have not led us astray. Forgive me. I was wrong to despair.

Aragorn: (shakes head, in elvish) There is nothing to forgive, Legolas.

They place their hands on each other's shoulders in friendship. Gimli walks in wearing his chainmail but carrying a large amount of it.

Gimli: We had time, I'd get this adjusted.

He drops the excess mail and it falls to the floor. It is clearly too long for him.

Gimli: It's a little tight across the chest.

Aragorn smiles and nods, feigning agreement. Outside a horn is blown. For a moment they are alert, but Legolas' expression changes after a moment.

Legolas: That is no orc horn.

The elf and man run up the stairs.

EXT - HELMS DEEP - NIGHT

The horn blows again. Two men look over the wall.

Soldier: Send for the King. Open the gate!

Soldier 2: Open up the gate!

The gate is opened, and marching up the causeway, an army of elves. They wear golden armour and blue cloaks, with longswords on their backs and bow in hand they make their way past the men of Rohan, who smile with renewed hope for the battle ahead. The Elves, led by Haldir of Lorien, arrives at the main hall, where Theoden walks and looks in disbelief. Haldir bows respectfully to the King.

Theoden: How is this possible?

Haldir: I bring word from Elrond of Rivendell. An alliance once existed between elves and men. Long ago, we fought and died together.

Aragorn, Legolas and Gimli arrive to the welcome sight.

Haldir: We come to honour that allegiance.

Aragorn runs down and greets Haldir in elvish. He starts a respectful gesture, but embraces the elf instead, who returns the gesture. Aragorn smiles.

Aragorn: You are most welcome.

Legolas greets Haldir. The elven army turns and stands to attention before Theoden.

Haldir: We are prouf to fight alongside men once more.

Later, all preparations are in place. The men of Rohan man the keep with Theoden overlooking his people, the elves are positioned along the length of the Deeping Wall. With them are Aragorn, Legolas and Gimli, who is too short to see above the piece of wall in front of him. In the distance they hear the sound of marching and roaring. They see the light of torches brightening and they approach.

Gimli: (grumbling) You could've picked a better spot.

Aragorn walks over to join his closest companions.

Gimli: Well, lad, whatever luck you live by, let's hope it lasts the night.

A flash of lightning illuminated the Uruk army for a moment.

Legolas: Your friends are with you, Aragorn.

Gimli: Let's hope they last the night.

Aragorn walks off to ensure the troops are prepared. Another flash of lightning heralds the arrival of a freezing rainstorm. Theoden stands resolute, an inspiring presence to his men as the army of monsters arrive at their doorstep. An Uruk captain stands upon a large boulder and roars for his army to stop.

Aragorn: (in elvish) Show them no mercy, for you shall receive none.

INT - GLITTERING CAVES - NIGHT

The women and children are silent and nervous. The only sound being the occasional crying child.

EXT - HELMS DEEP - NIGHT

The Uruks stand roaring, ready to begin the bloodshed.

Gimli: (stretching up) What's happening out there?

Legolas: Shall I describe it to you, or would you like me to find you a box?

Gimli laughs. The Uruk captain roars again and the army rhythmically stamp their spears to the ground. Aragorn draws his sword in preparation for the imminent battle. The men of Rohan draw their arrows. An older man struggles to hold his bow firm. The pounding and the roaring increase in intensity and speed until the older archer accidentally releases his arrow into the hoard, striking an Uruk directly in the neck. The sound immediately stops.

Aragorn: (in elvish) Hold!

The struck Uruk stands for a moment then falls to the ground dead, the first casualty of the battle. The Uruks roar more ready than ever to kill, and finally the captain roars the charge. All troops run towards the Helms Deep.

Theoden: So it begins.

The Uruk-Hai continue to run, gaining ground quickly.

Aragorn: (in elvish) Prepare to fire!

The elves draw their arrows in unison, picking their targets.

Legolas: (in elvish) Their armour is weak at the neck, and underneath the arms.

Aragorn: (in elvish, raising his sword) Release your arrows!

A wave of arrows launches from the Deeping Wall, killing many Uruks.

Gimli: Did they hit anything?

Theoden looks behind him to Gamling.

Theoden: Give them a volley.

Gamling raises his arm and gives the signal, as does a one-eyed soldier.

Gamling: Fire!

Arrows now fly from the keep, stopping enemies from climbing the causeway. Aragorn looks behind the wall to more elves on the ground. He orders them to fire and more waves of arrows slow the progress of the advancing forces.

Gimli: Send them to me! Come on!

Several Uruks make it to the wall. Crossbows are fired, killing several elves and ladders are brought forward with Uruk berserkers mounted at the top.

Aragorn: (in elvish) Ladders!

Gimli: Good!

Aragorn: Swords! Swords!

The elves draw their swords as the ladders are perched against the wall. A berserker jumps from the ladder but it met by Gimli who immediately cuts him down. Another slices through the elves and Gimli rushes in for the save again.

Gimli: Legolas! Two already!

Legolas: I'm on seventeen!

Gimli: Huh? I'll have no pointy ear out-scoring me!

Gimli strike a berserker in the crotch with his axe and kills it when on the ground. Legolas shoots two more.

Legolas: Nineteen!

Gimli continues to battle the Uruks on the wall. The ladders continue to mount the wall and the battle in now in full flow.

INT - FANGORN FOREST - NIGHT

At the Entmoot, Treebeard has finished speaking and turns round to Merry and Pippin. Pippin sees this and stirs Merry from his rest.

Pippin: Merry!

Treebeard: We have just agreed.

A moment passes. The hobbits want to know what they agreed on but Treebeard says nothing.

Merry: Yes?

Treebeard: I have told your names to the Entmoot and we have agreed; you are not orcs. (smiles)

Pippin: Well, that's good news.

Merry: And what about Saruman? Have you come to a decision about him?

Treebeard: Now, don't be hasty, master Meriadoc.

Merry: (frustrated) Hasty? Our friends are out there. They need our help. They cannot fight this war on their own!

Treebeard: War, yes. It affects us all. But you must understand, young hobbit, it takes a long time to say anything in old entish. And we never say anything unless it is worth taking a long time to say.

Treebeard nods sternly but Merry is exasperated.

EXT - HELMS DEEP - NIGHT

The rain has stopped but the battle rages on. Gimli has stood himself on top of the wall between two enemy ladders, alternating swinging his axe between the two, taking out Uruks left and right.

Gimli: Seventeen! Eighteen! Nineteen! Twenty! Twenty-one! Twenty-two...

Meanwhile on the causeway, a large group of Uruks have created a shelter of shields and are slowly making their way towards the gate, the offence of the Rohan soldiers making no effect.

Aragorn: Causeway!

He gestures towards the group and the elves launch a volley of arrows, picking away at the Uruks. Theoden looks on, unimpressed at the invading force.

Theoden: Is this it? Is this all you can conjure, Saruman?

On the outside of the Deeping Wall, the Uruk-Hai have found the weakness in the wall. A path is made for two bombs to be carried and placed at the culvert. The path remains open for a berserker holding a torch to make a suicide run. Aragorn sees the light.

Aragorn: (in elvish) Bring him down, Legolas!

Legolas fires an arrow into the chest of the runner but his momentum is barely slowed.

Aragorn: Kill him! Kill him!

Legolas shoots him again, but still he runs. The Uruk finally dives into the culvert, the bombs ignite and a gigantic ball of flame destroys a large section of the Deeping Wall, sending elves, Uruks and Aragorn into the air. Theoden sees the destruction with a look of shock on his face.

INT - GLITTERING CAVES - NIGHT

The civilians feel an almighty rumble from the explosion and panic spreads throughout.

EXT - HELMS DEEP - NIGHT

The plume of fire and smoke rises, while stones from the wall land into the invading army, striking down several of Saruman's vile monsters. Aragorn lays unconscious on the floor, with Gimli laying nearby on a complete piece of the wall, awake but winded. On the causeway, the shielded group of Uruks are shoved either side, some falling off of the bridge to make way for a battering ram.

Theoden: Brace the gate!

The men of Rohan push against the gate as the ram makes contact. They're pushed away but resume their position. Trap doors open above the gate and men launch projectiles at the invaders, from rocks to arrows, and one bearded soldier (Peter Jackson) throwing a spear. At the wall, the Uruks start to stream through the opening towards Aragorn and the line of elves.

Gimli: Aragorn!

Gimli leaps from the wall onto the Uruks, knocking several down.

Aragorn: (on his feet) Gimli!

Gimli stands and swings his axe but is knocked to the ground, into the water. Aragorn orders the elves to shoot their arrows at the Uruks. Other elves are armed with swords.

Aragorn: (in elvish) Charge!

In battle stance, Aragorn and the elves charge towards the Uruk army, knocking spears out of the way and slicing through several of the creatures. Some elves are impaled but most fight through. Legolas, still on the wall, slides a shield down the stairs and rides on it down to the bottom, firing his arrows as his goes. He slips the shield from under his feet and it impales into the chest of another Uruk, at which point he continues to fight. Aragorn drags Gimli out of the puddle and the battle continues in earnest.

INT - FANGORN FOREST - NIGHT

Treebeard turns back to Merry and Pippin, seemingly finished with their long discussion

Treebeard: The ents cannot hold back this storm. We must weather such things as we have always done.

Merry: (fuming) How can that be your decision?

Treebeard: This is not our war.

Merry: But you're part of this world! Aren't you? You must help, please! You must do something.

None of the ents respond. Treebeard kneels down to him.

Treebeard: You are young and brave, master Merry. But your part in this tale is over. Go back to your home.

Merry is utterly broken by this outcome. Later they are preparing to leave. Pippin walks up to him, Merry stays facing away.

Pippin: Maybe Treebeard's right. We don't belong here, Merry. It's too big for us. What can we do in the end? We've got the Shire. Maybe we should go home.

Merry: The fires of Isengard will spread. The woods of Tuckborough and Buckland will burn, and... (turns to face Pippin) and all that was once green and good in this world will be gone! There won't be a Shire, Pippin.

Merry walks away, and Pippin thinks hard about what Merry said.

EXT - HELMS DEEP - NIGHT

The battle still goes on and the loses are great. The Uruks are gaining ground.

Theoden: Aragorn! Fall back to the keep! Get your men out of there!

Aragorn, still fighting hard, calls for the remaining elves.

Aragorn: (in elvish) To the keep! Pull back to the keep!

Aragorn looks up to a piece of wall and sees Haldir still fighting.

Aragorn: (in elvish) Haldir! To the keep!

Haldir nods and repeats ushers his troops to fall back. Legolas and another elf has Gimli by the arms and drag him away from the fight.

Gimli: What are you doing? What are you doing stopping for?

Haldir repeats the order and begins to retreat when an Uruk attacks him and buries his sword into Haldir's abdomen. The elf kills the Uruk in return but looks around, dazed. Another Uruk comes from behind and slices his back. Aragorn starts towards him.

Aragorn: Haldir!

Haldir, in pain and disbelief, looks around at his fallen comrades, the many elves that have fallen in battle. As Aragorn reaches Haldir, he finally succumbs and dies. Aragorn sadly places a hand on his chest in a solemn moment before more Uruks charge at the ranger. He perches on top of a ladder and tips it forward, landing on several Uruks. At the gate, the battering ram has splintered the wood to the point where there is now a hole. Uruks and men are firing arrows at each other. Theoden equips his weapon and starts towards the battlefield.

Theoden: (to the officers) To the gate. Draw your swords!

They do and the make their way to the gate. It is tight and there isn't room to swing a sword. An Uruk spear impales Theoden in the shoulder. He reaches for a spear of his own and impales the offending Uruk in the neck. He manages to free himself and Gamling takes Theoden to the rear of the defending men.

Gamling: Make way!

Theoden leans against a wall as the men charge forward, attempting to keep the gate closed.

Gamling: We can't hold much longer.

Aragorn and Gimli arrive at the gate. Aragorn ensures Theoden is well enough before slicing through more Uruks.

Theoden: Hold them!

Aragorn: How long do you need?

Theoden: As long as you can give me.

Aragorn nods and starts towards a door at the side of the corridor.

Aragorn: Gimli!

The two go through as the fight continues.

Theoden: Timbers!

On the outside of the gate, the Uruk-Hai are pressing hard against the doors. On a cliff sneak Aragorn and Gimli who look across to the horde.

Gimli: Oh come on, we can take them!

Aragorn: It's a long way

Gimli looks. There is a sizeable gap between the cliff edge and the causeway, too far for a dwarf to jump.

Gimli: (reluctantly) Toss me.

Aragorn: What?

Gimli: I cannot jump the distance, you'll have to toss me!

Aragorn nods and takes a firm grip of Gimli's clothing. Gimli stops Aragorn just before he's thrown.

Gimli: Don't tell the elf.

Aragorn: Not a word.

With no more delay, Gimli is thrown into the middle of the force, with Aragorn leaping in behind him. The two swing left and right, sending Uruks falling from the causeway to their deaths.

Theoden: Shore up the door!

The men carry heavy beams to make the gate stronger. Far down below, Uruk-Hai are loading ballistas with massive hooks. Theoden continues to oversee the strengthening of the door.

Theoden: Higher.

More ballistas are loaded while Aragorn and Gimli fight on. The hooks are fired to the highest walls of the keep and attached to thick cables. The men attempt to push them free. Lifting from the ground are a pair of much larger ladders mounted by dozens of Uruks. Once against the wall, the ladder drops hooks to ensure it can't be pushed down. Legolas sees another ladder being raised and draws an arrow. Just before it becomes vertical, Legolas shoots the cable and the ladder immediately falls backwards, sending the Uruks plummeting to their deaths and crushing the ones standing behind the ladder. Aragorn and Gimli continue to fight.

Theoden: Gimli! Aragorn! Get out of there!

The gate has been reinforced. Before the two can retreat they're grabbed by an Uruk. Theoden places the final piece of wood against the door, sealing it. From the wall, Legolas holds a rope.

Legolas: Aragorn!

The pair free themselves and Gimli kills their captor as Legolas throws the rope down to them. Gripping tightly, Legolas pulls them out of immediate danger and up to the wall. More hooks are fired and some are killed by them. The Uruks have overwhelmed the Rohan forces and Theoden starts back to the keep.

Theoden: (to Gamling) Pull everybody back. Pull them back.

Gamling: Fall back! Fall back!

With one final hit, the battering ram breaks open the gate and the Uruk-Hai army starts to flood the fortress, killing all in their way. The remaining Rohan forces run back towards the main hall.

Aragorn: They have broken through! The castle is breached! Retreat! Retreat!

The remaining forces fight to get inside, outrunning the Uruks as best they can. The castle walls have been completely overrun.

INT - FANGORN FOREST - MORNING

Merry and Pippin are sitting on Treebeard's branches as he walks towards the edge of the forest for the hobbits to make their way back to the Shire. Both of them are quiet and saddened.

Treebeard: I will leave you at the western boarders of the forest. You can make you way north to your homeland from there.

An idea suddenly comes into Pippin's head.

Pippin: Wait. Stop. Stop! (Treebeard stops walking) Turn around. Turn around, take us south.

Treebeard: South? But that would lead you past Isengard.

Pippin: Yes. Exactly.

Merry look utterly perplexed at Pippin's suggestion.

Pippin: If we go south we can slip past Saruman unnoticed. The closer we are to danger, the farther we are from harm. It's the last thing he'll expect.

Treebeard: (pondering the suggestion) Hmm... that doesn't make sense to me. But then, you are very small. Perhaps you're right.

Pippin looks pleased with himself and Merry looks baffled as Treebeard starts to turn around and walk the other direction.

Treebeard: South it is, then. Hold on little Shire-lings. I always like going south. Somehow, it feels like going down hill.

Merry: Are you mad? We'll be caught!

Pippin: (confident) No we won't. Not this time.

EXT - GONDOR - MORNING

Faramir and the rangers walk through the fields of Gondor with Frodo, Sam and Gollum in tow. They stop to see a city in flames.

Madril: Look. Osgiliath burns.

Ranger: Mordor has come.

Frodo looks down at the smoke.

Frodo: The Ring will not save Gondor. (turns to Faramir) It has only the power to destroy. Please. Let me go.

Faramir thinks little of this plea and makes haste to Osgiliath.

Faramir: Hurry.

The prisoners are dragged as Frodo continues to plead with the captain.

Frodo: Faramir! You must let me go!

EXT - FARGORN FOREST - MORNING

Treebeard, Merry and Pippin break through the trees. Treebeard is lost in thought telling a story to the hobbits.

Treebeard: ...those little family of field mice that climb up sometimes and they tickle me awfully. But always trying to get somewhere where they...

Treebeard looks ahead, becoming aware of his surroundings and lets out a shocked gasp. Acres of forest have been chopped, hacked and burned away. Where there was once lush greenery, there is no ash and smoke. Treebeard is heartbroken.

Treebeard: Many of these trees were my friends. Creatures I had known through nut and acorn.

Pippin: I'm sorry, Treebeard.

Treebeard: They had voices of their own.

With their view unhindered, the only thing in front of them is the tower of Isengard. Treebeard becomes furious.

Treebeard: Saruman. A wizard should know better!

He lets out an almighty cry of pain and fury that echoes all throughout the forest.

Treebeard: There is no curse in elvish, entish or the tongues of men for this treachery. My business is with Isengard tonight, with rock and stone.

Merry and Pippin look behind them, and from the forest walks dozens upon dozens of ents who join Treebeard in their new goal. Merry looks on with renewed hope.

Merry: Yes!

Treebeard: Bahrum, bahrum. Come, my friends. The ents are going to war. It is likely that we go to our doom. The last march of the ents.

The living trees begin the long, slow but purposeful walk to Isengard to retaliate against Saruman.

EXT - OSGILIATH - DAY

Where once was the jewel of Gondor's kingdom, there now remains a blasted warzone. Soldiers of Gondor run here and there, fighting a seemingly endless battle against Mordor's forces. The rangers of Gondor have arrived. Frodo, Sam and Gollum are kept to hand. Madril returns with a report of Faramir.

Madril: Faramir. Orcs have taken the eastern shore. Their numbers are too great. By nightfall, we'll be overrun.

Sam looks over to Frodo. He's overwhelmed with an unreasonable feeling of dread.

Sam: Mister Frodo?

Frodo: It's calling to him, Sam. His Eye is almost on me!

Sam: Hold on, Mister Frodo, you'll be alright.

Sam continues speaking but all sound has left Frodo's ears. He can hear no words, no sound of battle, not even his own thoughts.

Faramir: (proudly, almost arrogantly) Take them to my father. Tell him Faramir sends a mighty gift. A weapon that will change our fortunes in this war.

Faramir turns to leave but Sam gets his attention.

Sam: You want to know what happened to Boromir? You want to know why your brother died? He tried to take the Ring from Frodo, after swearing an oath to protect him! He tried to kill him! The Ring drove your brother mad!

Faramir doesn't know what to make of this revelation.

Soldier: Watch out!

A rock hurled from a catapult slams into a tall tower, sending debris falling. The men move to get out of the way. Frodo then looks up, vacant, as if in a trance.

Frodo: They're here... they've come.

Sam and Faramir look at Frodo for a moment. Then a familiar piercing shriek is heard. Faramir's looks up in fear.

Faramir: Nazgul!

A Ringwraith on a fell beast flies over the city to join the battle and hunt for the nearby Ring. Faramir ushers Gollum and the hobbits under some rubble. Gollum wails in fear

Faramir: Stay here, keep out of sight. (turning to rejoin his men) Take cover!

The Wraith flies over head as the men scatter.

EXT - HELMS DEEP - MORNING

Day begins to break over Helms Deep and the banners of the White Hand are flying on the walls. The Uruks have taken over the outside of the fortress, and now look to break into the main hall using their battering ram, slamming it against the door.

INT - HELMS DEEP - MORNING

The remaining soldiers desperatly attempt to reinforce the door, including Aragorn, Legolas and Gimli. Theoden, wounded in body and spirit, looks at the sorry sight in realisation.

Theoden: The fortress is taken. It is over.

Aragorn: (working tirelessly) You said this fortress would never fall while your men defend it. They still defend it. They have died defending it!

Another strike with the battering ram shakes the door

INT - GLITTERING CAVES - MORNING

Word of the battle's status has reached the civilians and panic is spreading throughout. Eowyn attempt to comfort some of the older women, while mother comfort their crying children.

INT - HELMS DEEP - MORNING

Aragorn continues to work, looking for solutions.

Aragorn: Is there no other way for the women and children to get out of the caves.

Theoden does not answer. He simply sits looking defeated. Aragorn turns instead to Gamling.

Aragorn: Is there no other way?

Gamling: There is one passage. It leads into the mountains. But they will not get far, Uruk-Hai are too many.

They feel another ram against the door.

Aragorn: Send word to the women and children to make for the mountain pass, and barricade the entrance.

Gamling leaves. Theoden looks over, lost in the evil that has stolen his castle.

Theoden: So much death... what can men to against such reckless hate?

Another ram shakes the room. Aragorn sees one final option.

Aragorn: Ride out with me. (Theoden looks) Ride out and meet them.

Theoden: For death and glory?

Aragorn: For Rohan. For your people.

Gimli: The sun is rising.

Aragorn looks to a window and see the light of the sun shining through. He remembers the words of Gandalf.

Gandalf: (v.o.) Look to my coming at first light on the fifth day. At dawn, look to the east.

Theoden: Yes... yes! The Horn of Helm Hammerhand shall sound in the deep... one last time!

Gimli: Yes!

Theoden looks to Aragorn, newly inspired and ready for a final stand.

Theoden: Let this be the hour when we draw swords together.

Gimli runs up the tall tower, the Hornberg, climbing a tight spiral staircase and reaches the horn. In the main hall, the door has almost broken and Theoden, Aragorn, Legolas and the soldiers of Rohan are mounted on horses. The ramming continues ever harder.

Theoden: Fell deeds awake. Now for wrath, now for ruin, and the red dawn!

Gimli blows the horn and a low, loud rumble is heard throughout the canyon. Finally the Uruks break into the hall and charge in.

Theoden: Forth Eorlingas!

The horses charge towards the door and the mounts soldiers run through all the creatures that they can.

EXT - HELMS DEEP - MORNING

The King and his men charge over all Uruks in their path, never stopping or slowing on their way out of the fortress, out through the gate and down the causeway. Many Uruks fall to their swords and continue to do so on the field. They fight to the bitter end. Then, Aragorn looks east and at the crest of a steep hill, backed by sunlight, the mighty steed Shadowfax carrying Gandalf the White.

Aragorn: (whispering) Gandalf

The wizard looks down to the battle below seeing the Uruk-Hai, who in turn look to him and prepare to attack.

Gandalf: Theoden King stands alone.

Then, Eomer rides up next to Gandalf and draws his sword.

Eomer: Not alone. Rohirrim!

And behind them, the horsemen under Eomer's command arrives. Theoden looks up with joy.

Theoden: Eomer!

Eomer: To the King!

At that point, the horsemen charge down the hill ready to meet their invaders head on. The Uruks hold their spears out in front of them to halt their approach. Just before the point of impact, the sun shines brightly in the creature's faces, making them loose focus and drop position. The Riders of Rohan clash with the Uruks and sweep through them almost effortlessly, with Theoden and his men fighting with renewed vigor.

EXT - ISENGARD - MORNING

Panic has taken over the orc pits of Isengard as the ents of Fangorn have fought back against Saruman. Taking huge chunks of wall from the surround, they throw it at the foul creatures manning the forges. Being of greater size, the orcs stand little chance against these sentient trees. Saruman runs to his balcony and looks in surprise at the sight below. Treebeard throws a huge boulder at the orcs, while Merry and Pippin stay perched on him throwing stones of their own. Pippin throws with expert aim, knocking one down with a blow to the head.

Treebeard: A hit, a fine hit!

Pippin flips a rock to Merry, who knocks out yet another orc. The ents continue to break the machines of Isengard, crush the orcs under their roots, and some make their way to the dam at the top of the gorge. Some orcs manage to pull ents down with grappling hooks and hack away at them with axes, others are set alight with flaming arrows but the actions of the trees are too devastating to be stopped.

Treebeard: Break the dam! Release the river!

One of the ents pull the supports of the dam and the massive wall immediately comes tumbling down, unleashing a massive torrent of water. Saruman sees this as the final undoing of all of his work. Merry and Pippin take a tight grip of Treebeard's branches as the ent laughs to himself.

Merry: Pippin! Hold on!

The water rushes inside the walls of Isengard and the ents take root.

Treebeard: Hold on, little hobbits!

The trees stand firm against the current. One flaming ent extinguishes the fire that had engulfed him. The river has reclaimed its terretory as the caverns beneath Isengard are flooded, ending the war for Sauron's minion, Saruman.

EXT - OSGILIATH - MORNING

Frodo, with a blank expression on his face, stands and walks out of their hiding space. Sam looks confused.

Sam: What are you doing?

The Ringwraith continues to fly overhead, knowing the Ring is nearby. Sam looks and sees Frodo go out into the open.

Sam: Where are you going?!

Frodo reaches a high point, where the fellbeast-mounted Nazgul flies in front of Frodo. The Ringbearer looks directly at the black robed demon and pulls the Ring out. The fellbeast starts to fly closer. Sam rushes up the stairs to save Frodo, while he closes his eyes and brings the Ring closer to his finger. Sam grabs Frodo and separates his hands. The tumble to down the stairs before the fellbeast can capture him. Faramir, hiding behind a pillar, shoots an arrow directly into the flying monster's chest, forcing it to retreat. Frodo and Sam continue their fall, and at the floor Frodo draws Sting and, with anger in his eyes, holds his knife to Sam's throat, the same way he did to Gollum. Sam looks at his friend with tears of fear in his eyes, trying to get Frodo to remember himself.

Sam: It's me. It's your Sam. (Frodo begins to soften) Don't you know your Sam?

Slowly, Frodo backs away and props up against a wall. Realising what he's done, he breathes heavily and drops Sting. Sam sits up crying. Frodo simply sits and looks hopeless.

Frodo: I can't do this, Sam.

Sam: I know. It's all wrong. By rights we shouldn't even be here.

Sam looks around, wondering how they got into this situation, look out into the distance to Mordor.

Sam: But we are.

Frodo remains staring at the ground, while Sam tries to make sense of everything

Sam: It's like in the great stories, Mister Frodo. The ones that really mattered. Full of darkness and danger, they were. And sometimes you didn't want to know the end, because how could the end be happy?

EXT - HELMS DEEP - MORNING

The Riders of Rohan continue to drive back the Uruks until they are in full retreat.

Sam: (v.o.) How can the world go back to the way it was when so much bad had happened?

Theoden: Victory! We have victory!

The men of Rohan cheer and celebrate. In the walls of the fortress, the men reunited with their families. Aragorn ascends the steps and comes face to face with Eowyn, who takes his head in her hands, overjoyed that he is alive, and the two embrace.

Sam: (v.o.) But in the end, it's only a passing thing, this shadow. Even darkness must pass. A new day will come.

EXT - ISENGARD - MORNING

The whole Isengard courtyard is flooded, now resembling a lake. Merry, Pippin and Treebeard look around, proud of their work.

Sam: (v.o.) And when the sun shines, it'll shine out the clearer. Those are the stories that stay with you, that meant something, even if you were too small to understand why. But I think Mister Frodo, I do understand. I know now.

EXT - OSGILIATH - MORNING

Sam looks out at the devastation of the city, the wounded men and the dark horizon as the battle comes to a pause, but stands with belief of every word he speaks.

Sam: Folk in those stories had lots of chances of turning back, only they didn't. They kept going. Because they were holding onto something.

Frodo: (struggling to believe) What are we holding onto, Sam?

Sam looks down to Frodo, and offers his hand. He stands the Ringbearer up and looks him in the eye.

Sam: That there's some good in this world, Mister Frodo. And it's worth fighting for.

Frodo looks touched by Sam's words, as if it sparked a new fire within him. Smeagol kneels nearby, having heard everything and he looks down, almost saddened and ashamed. Faramir also stands nearby, also touched. He slowly walks to the hobbits who stand before him more confidently than ever. Faramir kneels to meet their eyes.

Faramir: I think, at last, we understand one another, Frodo Baggins.

Madril and the rangers gather as Faramir stands again.

Madril: You know the laws of our country. The laws of your father. If you let them go, your life will be forfeit.

Faramir thinks on this while not taking his eyes off of Frodo.

Faramir: Then it is forfeit. Release them.

Frodo looks with relief as he, Sam and Smeagol are freed to continue on their journey.

EXT - HELMS DEEP - DAY

Gandalf, Theoden, Eomer, Aragorn, Legolas and Gimli, all mounted on their horses, ride up to the crest of the steep hill looking eastward.

Gandalf: Sauron's wrath will be terrible, he retribution swift.

They look over to Mordor, the fire beyond the mountain and the storms in the sky looking even more fierce.

Gandalf: The battle for Helms Deep is over. The battle for Middle-Earth is about to begin. (he smiles) All our hopes now lay with two little hobbits...

EXT - WOODLAND - DAY

Gandalf: (v.o.) ...somewhere in the wilderness.

Smeagol leads Frodo and Sam through the wood on route to the secret path into Mordor. Sam ambles behind, his mind wandering.

Sam: I wonder if we'll ever be put into songs or tales.

Frodo: (amused) What?

Sam: I wonder if people will say "let's hear about Frodo and the Ring" and they'll say "yes, that one of my favourite stories. Frodo was really courageous, wasn't he da?" "Yes, my boy. The most famoustest of hobbits, and that's saying a lot".

Frodo: You've left out one of the chief characters: Samwise the Brave. I'd want to hear more about Sam.

Frodo stops to think, then turns to Sam with a realisation.

Frodo: Frodo wouldn't have got far without Sam.

Sam: Now Mister Frodo. You shouldn't make fun, I was being serious.

Frodo: So was I.

Frodo continues walking and Sam stands flattered for a moment. He stands up tall and proud before continuing on.

Sam: (to himself) Samwise the Brave.

The hobbits notice that Smeagol has gone out of sight and start looking for him.

Frodo: Smeagol?

Sam: We're not gonna wait for you. Come on.

Smeagol walks alone feeling distressed. He's arguing again with his worse half.

Smeagol: Master... master looks after us. Master wouldn't hurt us.

Gollum: Master broke his promise!

Smeagol: Don't ask Smeagol, poor, poor Smeagol...

Gollum walks through the trees in fury.

Gollum: Master betrayed us! Wicked, tricksey, false. We ought to wring it's filthy little neck! Kill him! Kill him! Kill them both! And then we take the precious, and we be the master!

Smeagol panics, thinking what could go wrong.

Smeagol: But the fat hobbit. He knows, eyes always watching!

Gollum: Then we stabs them out. Put out his eyeses and make him crawl!

Smeagol: (liking this plan) Yes, yes, yes!

Gollum: Kill them both.

Smeagol: Yes (suddenly in a panic) No, no! It's too risky, it's too risky!

Smeagol leans against a tree out of sight of Frodo and Sam, who are still searching for him.

Sam: Oi Gollum! Where are you

Frodo: Smeagol?

A thought comes into Gollum's head.

Gollum: We could let Her do it.

Smeagol: (enthusiastically) Yes! She could do it!

Gollum: Yes, precious, She could. And then we takes it once they're dead!

Smeagol: Once they're dead...

Gollum shushes Smeagol, before Smeagol jumps from behind the tree and beckons the hobbits along the path.

Smeagol: Come on, hobbits! Long ways to go yet. Smeagol show you the way.

Gollum: Follow me...

The continue their long journey. They have travelled far, but the most dangerous stage of their quest is just around the corner. As over the mountain range, just out of their reach, lay the land of Mordor, the black land where, patrolled by Nazgul, orcs and all manner of foul creature, lay their final destination of Mount Doom, where the Ring was made and would be destroyed.

The End