Chapter 4 First Minas Tirith
Pippin looked out from under Gandalf's cloak, and he could not tell whether he was asleep or awake, and he felt as if he were still in this fast, half-flying dream.The dark scenery kept flying back, the wind whistling in his ears, and he could see nothing but the stars roaming in the sky, and to the right was the shadow of a huge mountain range against the black sky.He dazedly tried to figure out when and where he was now, but this dreamlike feeling made him completely unable to judge.
This was the first time they ran non-stop at such a high speed, and then, in the dawn, he saw a faint golden light, and found that he had come to a quiet town, and there were many empty houses on the hills.When the winged shadow flew over again, even the most stalwart warrior felt heartbroken.But Gandalf kept whispering soft words in his ear, and he fell asleep in a corner.Pippin, tired as he was, felt rather restless, feeling vaguely that people were coming and going, and that Gandalf was giving orders.Then, there was another night of running wildly, this was the second, no, the third night after he used the crystal ball.Thinking of this horrible experience, he fully woke up, and the rushing wind in his ear immediately turned into a threatening sound step by step.
The sky was white again, and the yellow flames seemed to be isolated behind the barrier of darkness.Pippin crouched, terrified, and wondered to what horrors Gandalf had led him.He rubbed his eyes, only to realize that the full moon was slowly rising from the east.It seems that it is still early, and there should be a long way to go.He changed his posture and asked:
"Gandalf, where are we?" he asked.
"In Gondor," replied the wizard, "and around Anorion." There was a moment's silence between them.Then, "What the hell is that?" cried Pippin suddenly, seizing Gandalf's cloak. "Look! Fire! Red flames! Are there dragons here? Look, and there!" Gandalf Dolf shouted at the steed in response. "Shadowfax, hurry up! We must hurry up, time is running out. Look! The beacon of Gondor has been ignited. This is the signal to inform the allies to come to help. The flames of war have been ignited. Look, the lights on Mount Amundine With the flames, the beacons of the Ellenaki were lit, and the signal went on westward: Nador, Yrelas, Minremun, Galenhan, and Halefulion on the borders of Rohan." Shadow Disease But suddenly slowed down, then raised his head and neighed a few times.From the darkness came the response of other horses, and the scattered hoofbeats gradually approached.Three knights appeared menacingly like ghosts in the moonlight, and then disappeared into the darkness of the west.Shadowfax pulled himself together, and immediately ran with all four hooves, and the night passed by him like a tidal wave.
Pippin felt drowsy again, and had little mind to heed Gandalf's earnest account of the traditions of Gondor; Get your horses ready to carry the news to Rohan in the north or Belfalas in the south. "The beacons of the North have been silent for a long time," he said, "and in ancient times, since Gondor had the heptads, they had no need for such crude means of communication." Again Pippin stirred uneasily.
"Sleep fast, and fear not!" said Gandalf, "for you are not obliged to go to Mordor like Frodo, but to Minas Tirith. This is the last stronghold of the free world. If Gondor Fall, or the loss of the Ring, and the Shire will fall with it." "That doesn't sound very reassuring," said Pippin, though sleepiness overcame him honestly.The last impression he had before falling into a deep sleep was of towering white peaks, bathed in the light of the full moon, like islands floating in a sea of clouds.He began to worry about where Frodo was, and if he had really arrived in Mordor, was he alive or dead?Little did he know that far away Frodo was watching the same moon sinking from Gondor, waiting for a new day to come.
Pippin was awakened by voices, and it was another day of hiding and traveling through the night.It was dawn now, and the icy chill was still approaching step by step, and the gray mist surrounded everyone.Shadowfax was covered in heat and sweat, but it held its head proudly, showing no signs of fatigue.Many tall humans in heavy cloaks stood beside him, and behind them rose a stone wall in the mist.It seemed that the stone wall had been weather-beaten, but before the night faded away Pippin could hear the sound of many men at work: hammers beating, wheels rolling, shovels digging.Torches lit part of the scene in the mist, and Gandalf was talking to the man who was in his way, and when Pippin listened intently, he realized that the subject they were discussing had something to do with him.
"Yes, we do know you, Mithranda," said the leader of the humans. "You also know the pass code of the seven gates, so you can come and go freely. But we don't know your companion. What is he? Race? The dwarves of the northern mountains?
At this time, we do not wish to allow any stranger to set foot on our soil unless he has great combat power and we can trust him. "I will vouch for King Denethor before his throne," said Gandalf. He has experienced far more battles and dangers than you. He and I have just left the scene of the Isengard offensive and defensive battle. We are preparing to pass the news to Gondor. If it is not because of his traveling day and night, he is already very tired , I'll wake him up. His name is Peregrine, and he's a very brave man." "Human?" repeated Inge suspiciously, and the others laughed.
"Human!" cried Pippin, fully awake, "Human! I'm not! I'm a hobbit, not some brave human being, and I don't want to risk anything if it's not necessary. Don't be fooled by Gandalf." Lied!" "Many great heroes are so humble," said Ingo, "but what race are hobbits?" "That is, halflings," replied Gandalf, "no, not as prophesied That one," said he, seeing the astonishment on the faces of the men, "was not he, but his kind." "Yes, and the companion with whom he traveled," said Pippin, "with you Boromir, who lived in the same city, was also with us, and he saved my life in the snow in the north, and finally died in a situation of being outnumbered to protect me." "Don't say more!" said Gandalf : "This kind of bad news should be told to his father first." "We have guessed it," Brother Yin said, "Many strange things have happened recently, you should continue on your way! The king of Minas Tirith must Will be eager to know the whereabouts of his son, whether this is a man or—" "A hobbit!" said Pippin, "for brave Boromir's sake, I will help your king as much as I can. Come on." "Good luck!" said Inge, and the humans he led gave way to Shadowfax, who quickly passed through a small gate. "Mislanda, I hope you can give Denethor and all our citizens wise guidance at this critical moment of life and death!
cried Ingo, "but, they say, you bring bad news every time." "That's because I only come when people need help," answered Gandalf, "as for you! I can give Some guidance for you: You are behind in repairing the wall of the Paliano Plain. Courage may be your greatest shield against the coming storm, and the hope I bring, because, what I bring The news wasn't all bad.
Put down your shovels and sharpen your knives! "The fortifications here will be completed before sunset today," Inge said. "This is the last wall we need to strengthen, and it is also the place where we are least likely to be attacked, because we are facing our ally Rohan. .Do you know them? Do you think they will answer our call?" "Yes, they will come, but they have fought many rounds behind your back. Whether it is this road or any other road , are no longer absolutely safe. You should be grateful to me! If not for me, Gandalf, this road may only become the route for the orcs to march, and there will be no reinforcements from the Hussars! Even now, here There are still dangers. Work hard and don't let up!" Gandalf finally came to the plain behind Ramas Anche.The people of Gondor called the city wall that was built with painstaking efforts after Ithilien fell into the hands of the devil, and called Ramath Anche.This wall stretched thirty miles from the foot of the mountain, and then turned back again, enclosing the plains of Palennor, the richest land in the valley of Anduin.At the northeast corner of the wall, farthest from the gates of the king's city, there was an opening twelve miles wide, overlooking a large level of land beside the great river, where the people had built extremely strong fortifications.In that area, great gates were built to guard the ford of Osgilia and the bridge across the river.This outer wall was not more than three miles from the King's City in the south-west corner, where the Anduin River turned westward around Eminyanan in Southern Ithilien, and the city wall was built on the river, and the docks and harbors of Harrond were also built. Located there, it is specially used to moor ships coming from the southern fiefdoms.
The land in this area is very fertile, with many fields and orchards.On every private farm there are fences, barns, and kilns, and many ditches run down the hills, across this verdant land, and into the great river Anduin.However, there are not many shepherds and farmers living there. Most of the residents still live inside the seven-story city of Gondor, and some people live in the Losanaki Valley in the mountains, or even more. To the south is Lambunion with its five streams.Between the mountains and the seas dwelt a hard-working people, who, though they belonged to the people of Gondor, were mixed with other peoples; His ancestors were the first men of men who lived near the hills in the dark ages.Beside the bustling port of Belfalas is the fortress of Dol Amros where King Imrahil lived.He and his people belonged to a proud people of noble blood and blue-gray eyes.
After Gandalf rode his horse and galloped for a while, the sky gradually became brighter, and Pippin woke up and began to look around.On his left is a mist as deep as the sea, completely covering the East in shadow; This is going to be a place full of fights and arguments.As Gandalf had promised, he also saw the end of the White Mountains, the black figure of Mindoruan, its ravines of black and purple shadows, its steep walls changing gradually with the sky. be bright.At the foot of its outstretched mountain, there is an impregnable city, surrounded by seven layers of solid and impenetrable walls; the strong and ancient city wall, in a trance, makes people think that it is a wonder dug out by giants from the mountains .
While Pippin was admiring the wonder in front of him in amazement, the city wall slowly changed from gray to dazzling white under the light of dawn.Suddenly the sun burst out of the shadows in the east, bathing the whole fortress in brilliant golden light.When the first ray of sunlight touched the tower of Exilion, the highest level of the fortress, the silver light immediately spread in all directions, as if the whole tower was made of crystal, Pippin couldn't help but exclaimed in surprise.In the morning wind, the white flag fluttered in the wind, and the sound of the clear horn came with the breeze.
Thus Gandalf and Pippin entered the gates of the city of Gondor at sunrise, and watched the heavy iron gates slowly open.
"Mithrandar! Mithranda!" cried the people, "by your presence, let us know that the storm is indeed at hand!" "The storm is indeed at hand," said Gandalf, "and on this storm I rode Frontwing came. Let me enter! I must present King Denethor while he is still Regent. No matter what happens next, Gondor as you know it may disappear from history. Let it go I'm going into town!" Under his majestic voice, the people retreated in awe and did not dare to continue to question; however, when they saw the hobbits and their steeds, they still couldn't hide the curiosity in their eyes .People in the royal city seldom ride horses, and there are even fewer horses on the streets. The only exception is the messenger who runs errands for the regent.They whispered to each other, "This must be the steed owned by the King of Rohan, right? Perhaps the Hussars will come to support them soon." Shadow Catalyst still walked towards the target confidently without looking back.
The city of Minas Tirith was built in a unique way. The city was divided into seven floors, and each floor had its own wall and entrance, but these entrances were not in a straight line: the main gate of the main wall was located in the entire city. In the east of the semicircle, the next gate is built in the southeast of the city, and the third gate is in the northeast of the city. All entrances are built according to this rule.Therefore, the road into the fortress is paved in a winding way around the hill.Whenever this road passed the position of the vertical main gate, it passed through an arched tunnel, and there was a huge rock that just divided the whole city in two, except for the first floor.Part of this special landscape is the natural mountain, and part is the uncanny workmanship of ancient craftsmen.This huge rock, as sharp as a blade, is located behind the main entrance square, extending all the way to the highest level of the circular city.Another fortress was built on the very top of the giant rock, so that the defenders in the top fortress could be like sailors in a giant ship, overlooking the main gate seven hundred feet below.The entrance to the city's stronghold also faces west, but is carved through solid rock, and then a slope leads to the seventh gate.People finally came to the governing hall and the holy spring garden in front of the Jingbai Pagoda.The towering and simple Pure White Pagoda reaches 150 feet into the sky, and the flag of the King Regent is on the top of the tower, overlooking the great plain a thousand feet below.
This is indeed an impregnable city, as long as there is one soldier in the city, even thousands of troops cannot take it down.Unless an enemy comes from behind, climb over Mount Mindoruan to where the Garrison Hill meets the mountains.However, that area is exactly at the height of the fifth city, and the oncoming wall is as high as the cliff; near there are the tombs of the former kings, guarding the towers and mountains in eternal silence.
Pippin looked more and more in awe at the great stone city.This is more majestic and splendid than any man-made building he has ever imagined, taller, stronger, and more beautiful than Essinger.But in fact, it is a city of doom that is gradually declining. The population has been reduced by at least half compared to its heyday. There are many buildings with carved beams and painted buildings on every street, and beautiful and strange ancient characters are carved on the doors. Pippin guessed that these must be It is the name of a great man who once lived here.But now the buildings were empty and dead; no footsteps echoed in the corridors, no laughter dotted the beautiful gardens.
At last they entered the seventh gate, and the sun shone warmly on the river below; while Frodo was walking on the plain of Ithilien, looking at the crumbling walls and pillars, and Stone heads falling to the ground.Gandalf dismounted and walked, for no horses were allowed in the keep.Under the gentle words of the master, Yingji obediently asked the servant to take it away.
The guards of this gate are all dressed in black clothes and black armor. The shape of the helmet is very special, with a towering helmet tip, cheek guards that fit closely with the side of the face, and the temples are decorated with white feathers of seabirds.These helmets all shone with silver light, because they were all made of mithril passed down from ancient times.On the cloak is embroidered a tree in full bloom like snow, with a silver crown and starburst on it.This is the family emblem of Elendil. No one in Gondor is qualified to wear this emblem except the guards stationed in the Holy Spring Palace where the Holy White Tree once grew.
It seemed that the news of their arrival had spread, and the two were immediately led into the door without any unnecessary questions from the other party.Gandalf trotted across the palace of white flags, where a beautiful fountain danced in the morning light, and was dotted with green gardens; but in the very center, near the pool, stood a dead tree, splashing The water from the spring fell sadly back into the pool from this lifeless branch.
Pippin followed closely behind Gandalf, looking at the tree at the same time.He thought the tree looked very sad, and he couldn't understand why there was such a dead old tree in the garden where everything was in order.
Seven-star seven crystal stone, a tree of holy white.
The words Gandalf had whispered came to him.Then he found himself at the lower gate of the shining tower; and Pippin followed the wizard, past the tall and silent gatekeeper, into the cool, empty hall of the tower.
Gandalf whispered in Pippin's ear as the two of them passed through a long empty corridor, "Mr. He is a kind old man. Denethor is completely different from him. He is both proud and deep. Only you can tell him what happened to his son Boromir. He loves Boromir the most, maybe you can call it doting. Under the cover of this father-son relationship, he will ask you directly for another reason. You can get a lot of information relatively easily. Don't leak things you shouldn't, especially about Frodo's mission. I will deal with it when the time comes. Unless you have no choice, you'd better not Mention Aragorn." "Why not? Is there anything wrong with the Strider?" whispered Pippin, "He's coming this way, isn't he? And he should be here soon."" Perhaps, perhaps," said Gandalf, "but even if he comes here, he may appear in a way that no one expects, not even Denethor. And, as it were, at least It is not for us to announce his coming." Gandalf stopped before a gleaming metal gate. "Listen, Mr. Peregrine, I don't have time to describe to you all the history of Gondor; if you have heard some of it when you were walking the birds in the Shire, you need not worry me. Do as I say. Do it! When you tell the prince of the great power of the heir's death, it is better not to let him know too much of the rest. Especially if another person should arrive, and the other party can justifiably claim his throne. So. Is that clear enough?" "The throne?" said Pippin in surprise.
"Yes," said Gandalf, "even if you have been in such a daze all this way, it is time to wake up!" and he began to knock at the door.
The door opened, but no one seemed to be behind it.Pippin saw behind the door a vast hall lit by windows lined with tall stone columns.There are also many black marble statues on display in the hall, with images of various rare animals and plants. The faintly visible roof of the main hall is shining with dull golden light, mixed with colorful lights.In this stately hall no ornament or tapestry was hung, nor was there any object of wood; but, between the pillars, there were many reliefs carved on cold stone.
Suddenly Pippin thought of the gigantic rock carvings of Argonus, and he could not help feeling awe as he looked at these sculptures of the former kings.At the end of the hall, on top of many steps, is a tall throne with a canopy carved of marble, like a crown and a helmet. , but the throne is empty.
Beneath the throne, on the widest step of the lowest step was a plain black stone chair, on which sat an old man staring at his knees, holding a scepter with a golden ball at the tip .They walked towards him without a word, until they were within three steps of him, and then Gandalf spoke.
"Hello, Lord and Regent of Minas Tirith, Denethor, son of Exilion! I come to offer my advice and information at this time of crisis." The old man raised his head, and Pippin He could clearly see his haughty face and ivory-white skin, as well as his pair of deep black eyes and hooked nose. He really couldn't associate Boromir with the old man in front of him. "The crisis is indeed imminent," said the old man. "Mithranda, you always appear in such a situation. Although there are signs that the end of Gondor is coming, it is no darker than the crisis I have experienced. It is said that you have brought witnesses to my son's death, is this this?" "Yes," said Gandalf, "one of the two witnesses, the other was at Theoden in Rohan The king should be here soon. You can also see that he is a halfling, but not the one that the prophecy said." "However, he is still a halfling," Denethor said solemnly. Said: "I don't like this title very much. It is this damn prophecy that lured my son from the palace and embarked on the death mission. My dear Boromir! We need you now, when we should Faramir was sent." "He should have gone, too," said Gandalf, "and you can't be unreasonable because you're sad! Boromir took the initiative and didn't want anyone else to take it. He's strong and wants to You must get what you want. I have been with him for a long time, and I know his personality quite well. However, you just mentioned his death. Did you hear about it before we came here? Is it?" "This is what I received," Denethor put down the scepter, and picked up what he was staring at from his knees.He held one half of the horn in each hand: a bison's horn held together by silver rings.
"This is the horn that Boromir carries!" exclaimed Pippin.
"Yes," Denethor said, "I also carried it back then. Every eldest son in our family must inherit this token. It began as far back as the time when the blood of the royal family was cut off. In ancient times, Madir Forged by the horn of the great buffalo that the father Virondil hunted at Rune. I heard its faint trumpet on the northern frontier thirteen days ago; the river brought me its cracked horn: It can no longer make any sound." He paused for a moment, and the atmosphere became very solemn.His black eyes turned sharply to Pippin. "Halfling, what have you got to say?" I was with him when the horn was sounded. We were alone, surrounded by a growing number of Orcs." "So," said Denethor, looking sharply at Pippin. "Are you over there too? Tell me in detail! Why is there no reinforcements? How did you escape? How could a brave man like him sacrifice his life only to be stopped by a few orcs?" Pippin blushed, Forget about the fear in my heart.He said: "Even the strongest warrior could be killed by a single feathered arrow, and Boromir was covered in arrows. When I last saw him, he was leaning against a Big tree, tried to pull out a black feather arrow from my waist, and then I was knocked unconscious and captured. I never saw him again, and there is no news about him after that. But he left an unforgettable memory in my heart. Fading impression, he was so desperate. We were ambushed by the troops under the command of the Dark Lord, and he fought bloody to save my compatriots Meriadoc and me; even though he was outnumbered and died heroically, I am grateful to him It hasn't decreased by a single bit." Then, Pippin looked into the eyes of the old man, and under the stimulation of the cold tone before, the arrogance in his body began to boil, "There is no doubt that for such a noble king among mankind, Said, the help that a halfling and hobbit from the North Shire like me can offer must be very little. But even so, in return for this saving grace, I will give my loyalty. Pippin said Opening the cloak, he placed the dagger at Denethor's feet.
A pale smile flashed across the old man's face, like the faint sunlight shining on the snow and ice in winter.Still, he lowered his head, removed the fragment of the horn, and stretched out his hand. "Give me that weapon!" he said.
Pippin raised his short sword and handed the hilt to the regent. "Where did this come from?" Denethor asked, "It has experienced many, many years of wind and frost. This should be a weapon forged by our people in the distant past in the north?" "This is from the border of my hometown. found in the mausoleum," said Pippin, "but now only the wicked wights live there, so I will not describe it to you." "I can see that you have had a remarkable experience, Denethor said, "Once again, the old proverb proves its wisdom, and does not judge by appearance--even halflings. I accept your allegiance, because, you are not overwhelmed by my words, although you You have a weird tone, but you describe everything without flinching. We're going to need all brave men, big and small, in the days to come. Swear to me!" "Hold the hilt," Gan said. Dolf said: "If you make up your mind, follow the castellan." "I've made up my mind!" said Pippin.
The old man put the dagger on his knees, Pippin held the hilt, and said slowly after Denethor: "I hereby swear allegiance to Gondor and the regent of this country; from now on, I will never turn back for its mouthpiece, Life and death will not be spared, I will walk the world, through the flames of war and peace. Until my lord looses my bondage, or the world is destroyed, until death. So, I swear by Peregrin, son of Palatine of the Shire." "Love Denethor, son of Xilion, ruler of Gondor, regent who assists our Emperor, remember your oath. I will never forget, and I will definitely repay your allegiance: love for loyalty, honor for valor, and Vengeance responds to betrayal." Pippin retrieved the sword, sheathing it.
"And now," said Denethor, "my first order is: Don't be shy, be frank! Tell me the whole story, tell me all your memories of my son Boromir. Sit down. , start talking!" As soon as he finished speaking, he rang a small silver gong next to the footstool, and the servants came over immediately.Pippin saw that they were all standing in the alcove by the door, and therefore did not notice when Gandalf and he came in.
"Bring the chairs and the food and drink to your guests," said Denethor, "and let no one disturb you for an hour." "The business of the state is so busy that I have only so much time to spare," he said to Gandalf. "It seems that there may be many more important things, but none of them seem urgent to me, and perhaps we shall have a chance to talk again after dark." "Hopefully sooner," said Gandalf Said: "I flew four hundred and fifty miles across the land from Isengard Starry Night, not just to send a little warrior to you-no matter how brave he is. Theoden won a big battle Victory, Essinger has been breached, and I interrupted Saruman's staff, isn't that important to you?" "It's all important to me, but in terms of fighting the threat from the east , I already know enough information." His black eyes turned to Gandalf, and Pippin noticed many similarities between the two men, and could clearly feel the rivalry between the two, as if there was something hidden. An unknown flame raced between the eyes of the two, and could burst out at any time.
Denethor did look more wizardly than Gandalf, more regal, handsome, stronger, and older; but Pippin could feel that Gandalf had a stronger Strength and wisdom, his dignity is not easy to show.Moreover, Gandalf was older, much older than everyone imagined. "How old is it?" he wondered, realizing that he had never questioned that before.Treebeard had mentioned something about wizards, but even then he didn't think Gandalf was one of them.What exactly is Gandalf?When did he come to this world in ancient times, and when will he leave?Not long after, his contemplation was interrupted.Gandalf and Denethor still stared at each other, as if trying to read each other's minds, but in the end Denethor withdrew his gaze first.
"Yes," he said, "although they say that the spar has been lost for a long time, the princes and nobles of Gondor still have sharper eyesight than ordinary people, and there are many channels for collecting information. Sit down first!" The servant took A chair and a low stool came in, and one of them came in with a tray with silver jugs and cups and white pastries on it.Pippin sat down, but he could not take his eyes off the aged regent.He didn't know if it was real or imaginary, but he seemed to feel that when the other party mentioned the spar, his eyes suddenly lit up and looked towards Pippin's face.
"My lord," said Denethor, half caring, half ironic, "I would love to hear anything that would be my son's friend." During the hour under the sharp gaze, he was powerless against the sharp questions of the other party, and at the same time Gandalf was always paying attention and listening to him, Pippin could faintly feel that the wizard was suppressing his heart Growing impatience and anger.At last, when the hour was over, Denethor struck the silver gong again, and Pippin felt weak all over. "It's only nine o'clock at the most," he thought, "and I think I can have three breakfasts." "Take Master Mithranda to the lodgings that have been prepared for him," said Denethor, "if His companion may live with him for the time being if he wishes. But pass on the word, I have accepted his allegiance, and you shall all call him Peregrin, son of the Palatine, and give the lower passphrase to He. Tell the generals to report to me three hours after sunrise." "As for Misranda-sama, you should also come here. No one can stop you from coming to see me except my bedtime." Vent your wrath at the folly of an old man, and give me advice!" "Fool?" said Gandalf, "No, my lord, if you commit folly, you will die. Take your Use it as a cover for your grief! Don’t you think I don’t understand what it’s like to sit around and watch you question my ignorant companion?” “Since you understand, there’s no need to make a fuss about it,” Dee said. Nether replied: "Pride will stain your advice and assistance, and you must give these precious gifts according to your own strategy. But, no matter how high the other party is, the ruler of Gondor will not be a plaything in the hands of others. For him, everything in this world is inferior to the blessings of Gondor; ruling Gondor is his responsibility, and it has nothing to do with others, unless the Emperor returns to Gondor again." "Unless the Emperor returns? said Gandalf. : No matter it is Gondor or other countries, big or small, they are not under my jurisdiction, but what I am concerned about is the crisis that all good things in this world are facing now. As for my part, even if Gondor is destroyed, but As long as what happened tonight can be passed down and bear fruit in the future, then my mission will not be in vain. I also have the obligation to assist Renjun, don't you know?" After finishing speaking, he He turned and walked away side by side with Pippin.
Gandalf did not look at Pippin or speak to him as he walked.Their guide led them away from the main entrance of the great hall, through the Palace of the Holy Springs, and into a path between towering rock buildings on either side.转了几个弯之后，他们来到了一个靠近要塞北边外墙的屋子，就在和突出的山丘距离不远的地方，他们被带到屋子内的二楼，一个光亮、通风的房间，墙壁上还挂着许多闪着黯沉金光的挂毯。房间内的布置相当简单，只有一张小桌子、两张椅子和一个长凳；不过，在两边墙壁都有挂着廉幕的凹室，里面有着收拾整齐的床铺和盥洗的用具。房间里面还有三个高而狭窄的窗户，往北俯瞰安都因笼罩在迷雾的河湾以及爱明莫尔与拉洛斯瀑布。皮聘得要踩着长凳才能够攀到窗台。
「甘道夫，你在生我的气吗？」在领路人关上门走出去之后，他问道：「我已经尽力了。」「你真的尽力了！」甘道夫爽朗地笑了，他走到皮聘身边，搂着对方的肩膀，一起看向窗外。皮聘有些惊讶地看着身边的老者，因为那笑声听来十分欢欣和轻松。但是，他在巫师的脸上只能看见哀伤和忧心的皱纹；不过，当他凝神细看时，可以注意到在那面具之下藏着无比的快乐：这情绪若一涌而出，可能足以感染全国的人民，让他们一起开怀大笑。
「你的确尽力了，」巫师说：「我希望你下次不要再这样被困在两个恐怖的老人之间进退不得。不过，皮聘哪，刚铎的统治者依旧从你身上，得知了比你所猜想还要多的消息，你无法隐瞒带领众人离开摩瑞亚的并非波罗莫的这个事实，同时，他也清楚知道你们之中有一名地位极高的人将要前来米那斯提力斯，而且他拥有一把名闻遐迩的宝剑。也别忘记，自从波罗莫离开之后，迪耐瑟有很长的时间去推敲有关埃西铎克星的那首诗歌。」「皮聘，他和这个时代的其他人类都不同，不知是巧合还是命运，但西方皇族的血统在他身上十分鲜明，同样的事情也发生在他的另一名儿子法拉墨身上；不过，他最锺爱的波罗莫却没有继承到这血统。他很有远见，如果他专心一意，甚至可以知道人们心中的思想，就算对方在天涯海角也是一样。你很难欺骗他，光是有这个念头就非常的危险。」「千万记住！因为你现在已经对他宣誓效忠，我不知道你到底为什么会这样做，但这是个相当不错的作法，我并没有阻止你，因为我认为慷慨激昂的行为不该受到冰冷逻辑的拦阻。这感动了他，同时也让他心情好了一点。至少，在你没有任务的时候，可以在米那斯提力斯自由来去。你现在成了他的属下，他不会轻易忘记这事情的。随时提高警觉！」甘道夫沉默了片刻，叹气道：「算了，没必要为了明天会发生的事情而忧愁。我可以确定的说，从今天开始，状况会越来越糟糕，我也没有办法阻止情势的演变。棋盘已经摆好了，棋子也开始移动。有一枚棋子是我十分想见到的，那是成为迪耐瑟继承人的法拉墨，我想他应该不在城中，但我又没时间收集情报。皮聘，我得走了，我得去参加他的军事会议，尽可能的打探消息。这盘棋魔王占了先机，他已经布好了阵势。皮瑞格林，刚铎的战士，像你这样的卒子可能知道的和我们一样多，磨利你的宝剑吧！」甘道夫走到门口，转身说道：「皮聘，我得赶时间！」他说：「你出门的时候帮我个忙，如果你还不累，最好能够在休息前帮我办好──去找影疾，看看它状况怎么样。刚铎的人民睿智而善良，但他们并不像其他的民族一样擅于照顾马匹。」甘道夫话一说完就走了出去，就在同一瞬间，要塞的高塔中传来了清脆的钟声。这宏亮的钟声在空气中回响了三次：日出之后三小时的钟声。
几分钟之后，皮聘离开房间，走下楼梯，观察着外面的街道。太阳投射着温暖的光明，高塔和建筑都朝着西方落下深深的阴影。明都陆安山白色的顶峰衬着湛蓝的天空，显得格外耀眼。全副武装的男子在城中的街道来来往往，似乎正准备进行换班和上哨的动作。
「我们在夏尔都称这个时间为九点，」皮聘大声的对自己说：「正好是在春日下坐在窗边吃顿丰盛早餐的时候。天哪！我真希望能够有顿早餐吃！这些人到底吃不吃早餐哪，还是大家都已经吃完了？他们到底什么时候、在哪里吃早餐？」这时，他注意到一个穿着黑、白两色衣服的男子，沿着要塞中央的狭窄街道朝他走来。皮聘觉得十分寂寞，下定决心要和对方攀谈，不过，其实他并不需要这样做，因为那人已经冲着他开口了。
「你是半身人皮瑞格林吗？」他说：「有人告诉我你已经宣誓效忠这座城和城主了，欢迎！」他伸出手，皮聘热情地和他握手。
「我是巴拉诺之子贝瑞贡，我今天早上不须要值勤，我奉命来告诉你通行密码，以及对你说明一些你会想要知道的事情，另外，我也很想要知道有关你的事情。虽然我们曾经听过半身人的传言，但我们的故事里极少提到你们，更别说亲眼目睹了。听说你还是米斯兰达的朋友。你跟他很熟吗？」「呃，」皮聘说：「我想你可以说我从小就认识他了，最近我还和他东奔西跑的。不过，这家伙深不可测，我可不敢说自己对他有任何粗浅的了解，或许，我对他的认识还是没有多少人可以相比的。在我们的远征队中，我想只有亚拉冈真正了解他。」「亚拉冈？」贝瑞贡说：「他是谁啊？」「啊，」皮聘结巴地回答：「他是和我们一起到处旅行的人，我想他现在还在洛汗国。」「我听说你去过洛汗，我也很想要听听你对它的了解，我们把最后一丝希望都投注在那块土地上了。啊，抱歉，我说的太多，都忘记此行的任务了，我应该要先回答你的问题才对。皮瑞格林先生，你想要知道什么？」「这个嘛，」皮聘说：「请恕我无礼，但我心理面一直挂念着一样东西，这个问题还有些急迫，就是早餐的状况啦！我是说，你们到底什么时候用餐，吃饭的地方又在哪里？还有旅店呢？我之前有注意过，但是在我们骑马上来时连一家都没有发现。在我来到文明的国度之后，我好想好好喝杯啤酒哪！」贝瑞贡严肃地看着他。「阁下果然是位身经百战的老兵，」他说：「人们都说沙场老兵会随时把握机会寻找下一个休息和饮食的地方；但我不是那种游历四方的人，所以我也不太理解。你今天还没吃过东西吗？」「这个──客气的说算是有啦，」皮聘说：「但那只是你的王上好意赐给我的一杯酒和几片蛋糕；而且，他还咄咄逼人的审问我一个小时，这可很耗力气啊！」贝瑞贡笑了：「我们有句俗语说，人小胃口大。但你所吃的东西，和城中的其他人并没有两样，而且还有地位崇高的陪客和你一起。这里是座面临战火的要塞，我们每天都在日出前起床，随意吃些东西，立刻开始值勤。别失望！」他注意到皮聘脸上的表情，立刻笑着说：「勤务特别重的人们，可以在上什额外补充他们损失的精力。然后，我们还有什餐，大家会在勤务允许的状况下集合起来吃饭；即使在这么紧张的状况下，我们在日落的时候也不会忘记晚餐。」「来吧！我们先散散步，找些吃的东西，然后可以在城垛上用餐，欣赏这美丽的早晨。」「等等！」皮聘胀红着脸说：「我饿到竟然忘记了一件工作──甘道夫，也就是你口中的米斯兰达，他交代我去看看他的座骑影疾。那是洛汗国的骏马，也是他们国王最锺爱的珍宝，是他特别赐给甘道夫的礼物。我认为影疾的新主人非常重视它，如果你们尊敬米斯兰达，最好也用同样的态度对待影疾；如果可能的话，甚至要比你对待眼前的这名哈比人更有礼貌些。」「哈比人？」贝瑞贡问道。
「这是我们对自己的称呼。」皮聘说。
「我很荣幸知道这三个字，」贝瑞贡说：「我这才明白特殊的腔调并无法掩盖华美的言辞，哈比人真是舌灿莲花啊！来吧！你应该让我认识一下这匹骏马。我喜欢野兽，在这座岩城中我们没有多少机会可以看见这类生物；因为我的同胞都是从山谷中来的，在那之前则是居住在伊西立安。别担心！我们不需要在马厩里待很久，只需要礼貌性的拜访一下，然后就可以去补充体力了。」皮聘后来才发现影疾受到很好的照顾，在第六城中，也就是要塞之外的城区中有相当完善的马厩，其中曾饲养着许多的快马。这些都是迪耐瑟旗下随时戒备的信差们所骑乘的马匹，他们任何时候都待命传递城主或是将军们的紧急军令。这个时候，所有的马匹和骑士都已经出城去了。
影疾一看见皮聘走进马厩，立刻转过头开始嘶鸣。「早安！」皮聘说：「甘道夫会尽快赶来的。他很忙碌，但他请我向你问安，我奉他的指示来看看你是否安好。还有，在你奔驰了那么多天之后，是否有好好的休息呢？」影疾昂昂首，前蹄刨着地面，但他还是让贝瑞贡温柔地抚摸它结实的背部。
「它看起来似乎正在养精蓄锐等待竞赛，而不是风尘仆仆千里而来，」贝瑞贡说：「真是一匹强壮高贵的骏马！它的马鞍呢？那应该要十分的华丽才能配上它的尊贵。」「对它来说，没有任何华丽的马鞍配得上它，」皮聘说：「它不愿受马鞍的束缚，如果它愿意载你，那你就可以日夜间来去千里；如果它不愿意，天下间没有任何的马鞍、或鞭子可以驯服它。再会了，影疾！耐心点，战争就快到来了。」影疾昂首嘶鸣，整间马厩也跟着摇晃起来，两人忍不住捂住耳朵。然后，在确认它已经接受到适当的照顾后，他们就离开了。
「该是照顾我们自己的时候了，」贝瑞贡领着皮聘回头走进要塞，来到高塔北边的一扇门前。然后，他们走下一段很长的阶梯，进入一条点满了油灯的走廊。两边有许多的木门，其中有一扇是开着的。
「这是我隶属的卫戍部队的粮仓，」贝瑞贡说：「塔刚，早安！」他对着门大喊着：「时候还早，但是我身边有个刚向城主报到的新兵。他已经饿着肚子赶了很长的一段路，今天早上又很认真的工作了一段时间，现在饿得受不了了，给我们弄点吃的东西吧！」他们弄到了面包、奶油乳酪和苹果。苹果是冬天存粮中最后仅剩的部分，虽然有些乾瘪，但还是很脆很甜；除此之外，他们还拿到了一壶新酿好的麦酒，以及木制的碟子和杯子。两人将这些全都收到篮子里面，再爬楼梯回到阳光底下。贝瑞贡带着皮聘来到那块突出于巨岩上的堡垒东方，找了张石椅坐了下来，从这个角落，他们可以俯瞰刚才苏醒过来的大地。
他们又吃又喝，讨论着刚铎和它的传统习俗，以及夏尔和皮聘所见过的其他国度。他们越聊，贝瑞贡就越觉得惊讶，也越来越敬佩眼前的哈比人；皮聘则是浑然不觉地坐在椅子上晃着小脚，或是跕起脚尖看着灿烂的阳光。
「皮瑞格林先生，我就实话实说好了，」贝瑞贡说道：「在我们眼中，你看起来几乎和小孩子一样，最多不过度过九个寒暑，但是，你所经历的险恶风浪远超过我们许多的灰发老人。我从其他人的传言中，本来以为这只是我主一时兴起，遵照古代的礼法挑选贵族担任他的随从。我现在才明白并非如此，请您原谅我的愚昧。」「不要太在意，」皮聘说：「不过，你们说的也不完全错误，以我族的传统来看，我的确还只是个少年，以夏尔的说法来看，我还有四年才会『成年』。别浪费时间替我烦心了！来这边看看，告诉我你可以看见些什么。」太阳正缓缓升起，河谷中的雾气渐渐消退，随着东方的微风带来丝丝的白云，最后的雾气也都消失于无形。要塞和城垛上的旗帜迎着东风飘扬着，在底下的河谷中，极目所及之处，也就是大约十五哩的地方，皮聘可以看见大河从西北方流来，闪动着灰光，转向西南方而去，慢慢消失在地平线彼端距离此处大约一百五十哩的海洋中。
皮聘可以看见一望无际的帕兰诺平原，上面点缀着小小的农庄、田地、谷仓和兽栏，不过，到处都看不见任何的牲畜。绿色的田野上穿插着许多道路，许多忙碌的旅人来来往往，排列成行的四轮车朝着主城的正门前进，其他的则往外离开。有些时候会有骑士策马飞驰到城门口，然后翻身下马狂奔入城。来往的车辆大多数还是沿着主要干道往城外去，那条干道往南转向，沿着山丘前进，很快地消失在视线中。那是条十分宽广、平整的大道，沿着它的东边则是一条绿色的马径，在那之后则是座高墙。骑士们在马径上来回奔驰，而大道上则是挤满了许多往南走的篷车。不过很快的，皮聘就发现它们其实是秩序井然的：篷车分成三列，第一列是由马拉的、比较快速的四轮车；第二列则是比较大型、篷布也较为华丽，由牛拉着的篷车，在路的最西边则安排着由人拉着的小车。
「这是通往土姆拉顿和罗萨那奇山谷的道路，再过去是山中的村落，然后是兰班宁，」贝瑞贡说：「这些最后出发的车辆载着无法作战的老弱妇孺，在中什以前他们必须都离开正门，三哩以内的道路也必须完全净空。这是上级的命令。很遗憾，但是却不得不如此。」他叹气道：「许多在此分离的人可能再也无法相聚，这座城里面的孩童本来就很少，现在则是全都走光了。只有一些坚持不离开的少年例外，我们想办法替他们安排些工作，我自己的儿子就是其中一名。」两人沉默了片刻，皮聘紧张地往东看，彷佛随时都会看见成千上万的半兽人杀上战场。「我在那边看见的是什么啊？」他指着安都因河拐弯的地方问道：「那是另一座城吗？还是什么东西？」「那以前的确是一座城，」贝瑞贡说：「那曾是刚铎的王都，这只不过是座堡垒。你所看到的就是奥斯吉力亚斯在安都因河两岸的废墟，很久以前它就遭敌人攻下，被彻底的烧毁。
不过，在迪耐瑟年轻的时候，我们将它夺了回来，不是当作人民的居所，而是当成一个前哨站；我们也将大桥重新建好，用来运输部队。然后，米那斯魔窟的堕落骑士就出现了。」「你说的是黑骑士？」皮聘双眼圆睁，黑暗的恐惧彷佛又在他的双眸中苏醒。
「是的，他们披着黑衣黑甲，」贝瑞贡说：「看来你对他们似乎有所了解，只是你在之前的故事中并没有提到他们。」「我见过他们，」皮聘柔声说，「但是，我不会在这么靠近的地方描述他们。」他把视线移开，恍惚中觉得自己眼前笼罩着一片赶也赶不走的阴影，或许这是山脉轮廓透过雾气所造成的影像，或许只是一朵乌云。不过，在他眼中，这层难以穿透的阴影似乎正不断地扩张集结，缓缓将阳光遮蔽。
「你是说在这么靠近魔多的地方？」贝瑞贡低声说：「是的，魔多就在那边，我们很少提到它，但多年来我们一直生活在那阴影之下。有时它看起来比较遥远、模糊，有时看起来则是比较靠近、深沉。现在它看起来正在逐渐增长，我们的恐惧和不安也是一样。那些堕落骑士在不到一年之前抢回了渡口，我们许多最精锐的战士都死在他们手中。波罗莫好不容易才将敌人困在对岸，我们至今依旧死守着西边的废墟，至少暂时是如此；不过，我们预料会有一波更强的攻势，或许是这场战争中最大的攻势。」「什么时候呢？」皮聘问道：「你们有没有推测出可能发生的时间？我昨晚看到了烽火的讯号和传令的快马，甘道夫说这是战火即将蔓延的预兆。他似乎十分的着急，但现在一切好像又慢了下来。」「这是因为一切都已经准备妥当了，」贝瑞贡说：「这是在潜水前的深呼吸。」「那昨晚为什么又要点燃烽火呢？」「如果兵临城下才请求援助，就未免太晚了些，」贝瑞贡回答道：「不过，事实上我并不清楚城主和将军们的策略，他们有许多收集情报的方法，我主迪耐瑟和凡人不同，他可以看到十分远的地方。有些人说，当他在夜间孤身坐在高塔中时，他只要集中注意力，就可以预测部分的未来；有时，他甚至会试着入侵魔王的思想，和他展开搏斗，因此他才会未老先衰、体力透支。除此之外，法拉墨大人也在前线执行机密的任务，或许是他把情报传了回来。」「不过，我个人对于烽火点燃的原因还有其他的看法，那多半是因为昨天晚上从兰班宁传来的消息。安都因河口有一支庞大的舰队集结，那是南方昂巴的海盗船。他们从许久以前就不再畏惧刚铎的实力，和魔王结盟，这次看来是准备发动致命的攻击。因为，这场攻击将会牵制住兰班宁和贝尔法拉斯一带的援军，该处的战士人数众多，又身经百战。因此，我们才会更倚重洛汗国那边的消息，听到你们所带来的情报时才会那么兴奋。」「但是，」他站了起来，看着北方、东方和南方，「艾辛格的叛变，让我们明白自己正身处在一张尔虞我诈的巨大罗网中。这次将不会是以往的小规模冲突，不会是沿着边境劫掠、烧杀放火的挑衅。这是场经过长时间细心擘划的战争，不管我们多么自傲，都只不过是其中的一枚棋子罢了。根据情报，从远东的内陆海开始都有敌军不寻常调动的状况；北方的幽暗密林、南方的哈拉德也全都处在异常的骚动中。这一回，全世界都将接受魔影最后的考验──无法生存，就只有毁灭。」「不过，皮瑞格林先生，我们至少还有一个值得骄傲的地方：我们一直都是黑暗魔君最痛恨的敌人，他的恨意自远古开始累积，如同大海一样的深邃。这将是承受最严重打击的地方。也因此，米斯兰达才马不停蹄地赶到这边来。如果我们陷落了，还有谁能反抗？皮瑞格林先生，你觉得我们有希望能反抗黑暗魔君的大军吗？」皮聘没有回答，他看着这固若金汤的城池和高塔，以及随风飘扬的旗帜，目光接着扫向蓝天中的艳阳，以及东方逐渐聚拢的阴影，心中想起了魔影的爪牙：森林和山脉中的那些半兽人、艾辛格的叛徒、替魔眼观察四周的飞禽走兽，以及出现在夏尔的黑骑士，和骑着有翼妖兽的戒灵，他不禁打了个寒颤，似乎一切都绝望了。就在那一瞬间，阳光彷佛突然被遮断了，似乎有双黑暗的翅膀正穿越阳光。皮聘依稀听见高空传来呼喊声：极为微弱，但是却让人血液冻结、心跳加速。他突然觉得一阵晖眩，靠着墙壁蹲了下来。
「怎么搞的？」贝瑞贡问道：「你也感应到有什么不对劲了吗？」「是的，」皮聘低声说：「这是我们失败的徵兆，也是末日的号角，堕落骑士已经飞上了天空。」「是的，这是末日的号角，」贝瑞贡说：「我担心米那斯提力斯将会陷落，永夜将会来临，我浑身的血液似乎都冻结了。」两人垂头丧气地坐在那边，沉默而不互相交谈。皮聘猛然抬起头，发现阳光依旧灿烂，旗帜依旧飞扬。他摇摇头，「已经过去了！」他说：「不，我绝不会就这样灰心丧志。甘道夫曾经倒下，却又再度出现在我们身边。即使只剩一只脚，或是用跪的，我们也不会屈服。」「你说的没错！」贝瑞贡站了起来，来回走动着。「不，就算世界到了尽头，刚铎也不会毁灭；就算积尸成山，国破家亡，我们也绝不低头。世界上还有其他的堡垒，还有其他的道路，希望和回忆，依旧可以保留在某个草木翠绿的隐密山谷中。」「即使如此，我还是希望结局会真的到来，」皮聘说：「我根本不算是战士，也不喜欢战斗，但束手无策的等待一场躲不开的战争感觉最糟糕了。今天真是漫长的一天！如果我们可以不要袖手旁观、能够先发制人，我的心情至少会好一点。如果不是甘道夫，洛汗国可能还是处在同样的偏安之下。」「啊，你真是一语道破了许多人心中的痛处！」贝瑞贡说：「不过，当法拉墨回来之后，局势可能会改变，他非常勇敢，远远超越许多人的想像。在这种日子里，许多人不相信一个饱学多闻的人能够成为驰骋沙场的猛将，但法拉墨就是这样一个人，在战场上冷静理智、判断精准。他不像波罗莫一样仓促躁进，但决心毅力却丝毫不逊色。可是，他能够做些什么呢？我们不能突击那座山后的国度。我们的势力范围已经大幅缩小，除非敌人自己闯进来，否则我们无法主动攻击。到时我们下手绝不会留情的！」他拍打着腰间的宝剑。
皮聘看着他高大、自信的身影，就如同这个国度所有他未曾得见的人一般勇武，他的眼中因渴望战斗而闪烁着光芒。「真可惜！我不能体会这种跃跃欲试的感觉。」皮聘不动声色地想。「甘道夫说我是个卒子？或许是吧，但我大概走错棋盘了。」两人就这样一直聊到日正当中，直到正什的钟声响起，要塞内起了一阵骚动为止。除了值班的人之外，其他人全都集合用餐。
「你要和我一起来吗？」贝瑞贡说：「你今天可以和我的部队一起用餐。我不知道你会被分派到那个单位去，或许王上会让你直接在他麾下工作。不过我们都欢迎你一起来，如果还有时间，能够多认识一些人总是好的。」「我很高兴有这个机会，」皮聘说：「说实话，我觉得满孤单的，我最好的朋友留在洛汗，一路上都没有人可以聊天作乐。或许我可以直接编到你的单位去？你是将军吗？如果是的话，你应该可以替我说情，或直接收容我？」「不，不，」贝瑞贡笑着说：「我不是什么将军，我没有官阶也没有爵位，只是要塞卫戍第三连的一名小兵而已。不过，皮瑞格林先生，即使只是刚铎之塔中的卫兵，在城内都十分受人敬重，在整个国度中更是莫大的荣誉。」「我真的无法理解，」皮聘说：「先带我回房间吧，如果甘道夫还没回来，就请你领着我继续逛逛吧！」甘道夫不在房内，也没有留下任何的消息；因此，皮聘就跟着贝瑞贡一起用餐，同时结识了许多第三连的战士，皮聘十分受欢迎，看来贝瑞贡和皮聘一样觉得受宠若惊。有关米斯兰达的同伴和他与城主的密谈，已经在要塞中传得沸沸扬扬，谣言还说他是半身人的王子，特地从北方赶来与刚铎结盟，准备提供五千精兵协助对抗魔王；有些人说当洛汗国的骑士赶到时，每个人都会载着一名半身人战士，他们体型虽小，却身经百战。
虽然皮聘必须满怀遗憾地摧毁这些谣言，但他就是甩不掉这个新头衔。人们认为能够和波罗莫平起平坐、受到迪耐瑟大人的尊敬，这样的称号才是合理的。他们感谢他能够来到城内，纷纷专注地聆听外地的消息，并且给他许多的饮料和食物让他开怀大吃。事实上，他唯一要担心的就是甘道夫建议他必须「提高警觉」，不能像是哈比人平常和朋友闲聊时一样的口无遮拦。
最后，贝瑞贡站了起来。「先向您道别了！」他说：「我必须值一班到天黑的勤务，在场的每位应该也都是一样，如果你真的感到有些孤单，或许你会希望找个比较快乐的向导，我儿子应该会很荣幸能够带你到处逛逛，他真的是个不错的小家伙。如果您愿意，可以到最下城去找制灯街上的旧客房，城中所有留下来的孩子都在那边，在正门关起来之前，还有很多东西值得看看呢。」他走了出去，很快的其他人也跟着一起离开。天色尚早，天空有些雾茫茫的，即使在这么南方，以三月天来说，这时的天气也相当燠热。皮聘觉得有些昏昏欲睡，但这屋子显得太过冷清，他决定出门去逛逛整座城。他带了一些东西去喂影疾，虽然它那边不缺什么吃的，但它还是很高兴地接受了；然后，皮聘就开始在错综复杂的街道中四处穿梭。
人们经常会对他行注目礼，当着他的面，人们会对他十分尊敬地行礼，也就是刚铎礼俗中的低头抚胸的动作；不过，他也可以听见身后也许多人好奇地大呼小叫，通知屋内的朋友赶快来看半身人的王子、米斯兰达的伙伴。许多人所说的并非是通用语，不过，不需要多久，皮聘也可以猜得出来Ernil I Pheriannath是什么意思。看来，他的头衔已经早已传到其他的城区了。
他最后好不容易才来到了最底下一个城区中美丽的巷弄，在路人的指引下来到了制灯街，这是条通往正门的大路。不久之后他就找到了老客房，那是一座看来饱经风霜的石制建筑，两翼的厢房沿着街边往回聚拢。在厢房之间则有一小块绿地，主屋则是一座有许多窗户的屋子，它有一个十分雄伟的拱型门廊，几阶楼梯跟着通往屋前的绿地。男孩们在柱子间嬉戏，这是在米那斯提力斯里面唯一可以看到孩童的地方，他不禁停下脚步打量着他们。同时，有一名少年发现了他，一声呼啸之后就带着几名同伴冲到街道旁，在皮聘面前停了下来，开始仔细地打量着他。
「你好！」少年说：「你是从哪里来的？我们之前没见过你。」「的确，」皮聘说：「不过他们说我已经成为刚铎的战士了。」「喔，帮帮忙！」少年说：「那我们这些人全都可以打仗了。你到底几岁，叫作什么名字？
我十岁了，很快就要五尺高啦，我现在就比你高了。我爸爸是卫戍部队的士兵，他是最高的。你的爸爸呢？」「我应该先回答哪个问题？」皮聘说：「我的父亲在夏尔的塔克镇小井附近有一块地。我二十九岁了，这点我赢你；不过，我只有四尺高，除了长胖之外，我可能不会再长高了。」「二十九岁！」少年惊讶地忍不出吹了声口哨。「天哪，你年纪还真大！几乎和我舅舅伊欧拉斯一样大了。不过，」他满怀希望地说：「我打赌我可以把你扳倒在地上，或是把你抱起来。」「如果我让你，或许可以吧，」皮聘笑着说：「或许我也可以用同样的招数对付你，我们老家也知道一些摔角的技巧，我在家乡可算是又高又壮的家伙呢，我可不会让任何人把我扳倒在地上。所以，如果别无选择，我搞不好得要宰了你才行。等你年纪再大一些，你会知道人的外表并不代表一切，虽然你可能把我当成一个软弱的陌生少年，看起来很好欺负。我必须警告你：我不是，我可是个老练、勇敢、邪恶的半身人！」皮聘扳出一副恐怖的表情，让那孩子不由自主地退了一步，但他随即握紧双拳，两眼闪动着光芒走向前。
「等等！」皮聘哈哈大笑着说：「也别轻易相信陌生人所说的话！我可不是什么战士，如果你想当挑战者，至少应该先自我介绍才对。」少年自傲地挺起胸膛：「我是卫戍部队成员贝瑞贡的儿子伯几尔！」他说。
「我果然猜的不错，」皮聘说：「你看起来就和你老爸一样。我认识他，是他叫我来找你的。」「你为什么不早说呢？」伯几尔说，他脸上的表情变得十分不情愿。「别告诉我他改变了主意，要叫我和女人们一起离开！最后一班车子都走了。」「即使不算好，他的口信也不会差到这个地步，」皮聘说：「他说，除了扳倒我之外，你还可以带我在城里面逛逛，排遣一下我的寂寞，我可以告诉你一些远方国度的消息作为回报。
」伯几尔拍着手，松了一口气，兴奋地大笑。「太棒了！」他大喊着：「快来吧！我们赶快赶到正门口去吧。现在就出发！」「那里有什么好看的？」「边境的将军们在日落前应该要进城，跟我们来就可以看到了。」伯几尔的确是个相当不错的伙伴，事实上，这是皮聘离开梅里以来，所遇过最容易亲近的同伴，很快的，他们就打成一片，笑嘻嘻地在街道间穿梭，丝毫不在意人们投以奇怪眼光。过不了多久，他们就发现自己混入了朝向正门走去的人潮中。皮聘在那边展现了让伯几尔更为尊敬的特殊地位：当他报出名号，说出通行密码之后，守卫向他敬礼，让他通过；更好的是，守卫让他带着同伴一起过去。
「太好了！」伯几尔说：「我们小孩子没有大人带是不能走出正门的，这下子我们可以看得更清楚了。」正门外的人们挤在路旁，连所有道路汇合的广场上也挤满了人，所有人都专注地看着南方，很快地人们开始低声交谈：「那边有了尘烟！他们来了！」皮聘和伯几尔奋力挤到群众最前面，准备看个清楚。不远处传来了号角声，人们的欢呼声如同波浪一般朝他们的方向涌来。然后是一声震耳的号角，四周所有的群众全都开始欢呼起来。
「佛龙！佛龙！」皮聘听见人们喊着。「他们在喊些什么？」他问道。
「佛龙来了！」伯几尔回答道：「胖子佛龙，罗萨那奇的统治者。我的祖父住在那边！万岁！他来了。佛龙万岁！」在队伍的正前头是一匹四肢粗大的马，上面坐着一个虎背熊腰的男子，一脸灰色的胡子，看起来年纪不小。他披着锁子甲，戴着黑色的头盔，肩膀上扛着一支沉重的长枪。在他身后是一长列的部队，他们都全副武装，手持巨大的战斧；这些人脸色都十分的凝重，看起来比刚铎的人要粗犷、矮壮一些。
「佛龙！」人们大喊着：「患难见真情！佛龙万岁！」但是，当罗萨那奇的援军通过之后，人们开始窃窃私语：「这么少！只有两百名，这是怎么一回事？我们还以为会有两千名的支援。这一定是和那黑色舰队入侵的消息有关。他们只能派出一小部分的部队来支援，虽然是杯水车薪，但总比什么都没有要好。」这支部队就在众人的欢呼之下进入了刚铎的正门，边境的战士前来援助处在黑暗时刻的刚铎，但是，这股力量总是太小、永远比众人