Inspired by Lord of the Rings

Where to look for inspiration? My favorite books, of course. And what are my favorite books? Foundation, and The Lord of the Rings. But did I have to copy so much of it? Or did I think that's how books were supposed to be written?
After the story gets to Rykol, there is a long history lesson (like A Shadow of the Past).
Then the adventurers leave the safety of the main city, and are abandoned by their protector (Bolob here, Gandalf in Bree from my inspiration).
After being captured/hurt (Kezim by Rolag, Frodo by the Witch-king), they are rescued by a mysterious person (Egalinsor, or Elrond's people), and are taken to meet a wise, old being (Egalinsor -Elrond). There, they feel safe and protected once again, until it is reluctantly time to leave.
The head south to a mountain (Esetek/Moria), where they get lost and are attacked by a black being of incredible power (Obom/balrog). After escaping, they head south again to a city where they mourn (Erim/Lothlorien).
Things diverge a lot after that, thankfully, and the differences even in the sections mentioned above are enough that it's not noticeable unless pointed out.
But it's fun to notice!