My Guardian Angel
Disclaimer:I do not own LOTR characters. They belong to Tolkien. Johanna (pronounced Yohannah), Sora and Maestro Berlioz are mine. I hope you enjoy (
A/N: Just jumping ahead of time. Hence the date.
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May 31, 2002
This has been quite an unusual night! I hardly know where and when to begin. I guess all I can say is that never in my dreams did I wish to experience what I went through today. But after thinking about the events that have occurred tonight, I have to admit at the same time I have had the time of my life, in a queer sense. What I thought would be an innocent stroll in the woods had turned out to be a fight for my own survival along with a group called the Fellowship. It all started…………………………….
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"Hmm…do I look pretty or what?" I grinned in delight as I glanced at myself at one of the washroom mirror in my new black dress.
"You look like a knock-out. No, wait! You ARE one, Johanna," my best friend, Sora, told me, "especially for tonight, concert violinist!"
I smiled. Tonight is my big night, which I perform in Stanley Park with the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra for the first time. After all those years of hard work, blood, tears and sweat, not to mention encouragement from my mama and little brother, and especially from my papa, who sadly passed away three years ago from a boating accident, I have finally reached my long- term desire: to perform a Mozart concerto, my all-time favourite composer, with one of the best orchestras in Canada. I studied my dress. It was a two- piece tube dress, one which my mother have and still disapproved because it was, in her terms "immodest", but she can't do anything about that right now. Besides, I have a matching shawl anyways. I turned to look at my best friend, the principal clarinetist. She is dressed in a black fitting skirt that had two slits and a really nice black-laced tank top. She has much more defined curves and is slimmer than I am.
I smiled, "So do you, principal clarinet."
"So, are you really nervous?", Sora eyed me with a hint of concern, "of course you'll do fine! You're Johanna Scheidler! You've got music in your blood!"
I sighed sadly, "I wish my papa was here tonight to see his wish for me come true."
Sora put her arms around me in a hug, "Of course he is! He is among the stars watching over you! You're guardian angel!"
I hugged her back, "I know, I know. I can feel his presence stronger than ever. Thank you so much, Sora. For your support and all. What can I do without you?" I also pointed at the small golden angel pin on my right bosom. "I've got this reminder as well."
"That's what friends are for! Now come on, we'd better get out of here and go outside. The sun's setting and it's really nice. We've only got, like, an hour and a half. Come on!"
"Alright!" I picked up my violin in its case, which belonged to my father, and we strolled out laughing like little girls and I linked my arms with hers.
It was indeed a beautiful spring evening. Not too cold and not too warm. There was a gentle breeze and for some queer reason, I heard someone indistinctively and inaudibly call out my name. I stopped to listen.
"What is it?" I turned to my best friend, "Oh, it's nothing. I thought I heard someone call out my name. I must be hearing things."
"You're just nervous. A little walk will calm your nerves down." I shook it off and resumed walking with her. Five minutes later, I heard it again, this time it was slightly louder.
"Joooooooo-hhhhaaaaaaaaaaa-nnnnnnnnnnaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaahh……………."
Who on earth is calling me? Either my mind was playing tricks on me or the breeze was whispering my name.
"Jooooooo-hhhhhaaaaaaaaaaaa-nnnnaaaaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhhhhhh………………."
This time, for certain, it was a distinct whisper. I excused myself. "Um, Sora, I hope you don't mind but is it okay I take a stroll in the woods? I need a few moments of peace, just to relax a bit."
She gave me a curious look, but let me go, "Um, okay. Are you sure you're alright?"
The voice became a distinctive , audible whisper. The voice sounded somewhat eerie, yet comforting and gentle at the same time.
"Jooooooo-hhhaaaaaaaaaa-nnnnnnaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhh…………………."
"Yes, yes. I'm fine, thanks. I'll be back soon."
"Alright, I'll be over where the other guys are, see ya!" Sora headed towards where the other musicians were having a few drinks and appetizers while chatting about random things. I headed towards the part of the park with lots of trees with my violin and walked straight. For a strange reason, I was drawn to it. And it was strange. Why was suddenly so attracted to the forest? I stopped and listened. There was no voice this time. Who or what was it that was calling me? I couldn't tell if it was a male or female voice. Just someone calling my name. I was puzzled and confused. I suddenly felt something. Like I had to be somewhere, that I was needed. But for what? The voice that I heard sounded urgent. I wrapped my shawl around my shoulders. It was quite chilly. I walked further suddenly admiring the beauty of nature. How long has it been since I walked through a place like this? A sudden and stinging pain stabbed at my heart as a memory flooded my mind. It had also been a beautiful evening like this when my papa had taken me to walks such as these. I smiled even through pain.
As a little child, he use to tell me stories from the Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis. My favourite books. We acted out certain characters from the books, him being Tumnus the faun, sometimes Aslan, and me being Lucy Pevensie. I remember papa telling me one time, four months before he was taken from us, that not only forests are enchanting and beautiful, but there were guardian angels that protected my from harm. I have learned to love nature because of him.
I walked further and further. The fog was getting thicker that it gradually reduced my visibility. 'Where am I?' I wondered to my self as I suddenly found myself lost in the fog. 'I thought the weatherman had forecasted a clear day. I guess he was wrong.' I suddenly felt worried. I wandered around for about fifteen minutes then it dawned to me that I was lost. I started to be frightened. 'Oh, shoot! If I don't get out of here, I'll miss the chance of my life! Maestro Berlioz would be so angry at me for letting everyone down and so will mama!' That was it!
"Hello! Can anybody hear me?! Sora!" I started to shout for help in hopes that anybody, ANYBODY would hear me and find me. My shouts had been in vain."Mama! Sora! Maestro Berlioz! ANYBODY!"
I have never felt my heart race so wildly in my chest. I was officially scared. The fog began to thicken as I walked through the forest. It was so thick that it literally suffocated me. There was something strange about the fog. So enchanting, mysterious, magical. I scoffed at the thought and ignored it, though it was persistent within me. At last the fog gradually cleared up and I was relieved. I can finally go back and meet Sora and the others. However, there was something strange though. I looked around and the forest looked and seemed a bit different. I looked at my watch and for some reason, it was stuck at the time I started taking my walk in the woods.
"Oh, great! My watch has decided to die on me! Now, I shall never know how much time I have left before the concert starts! Blast! I need to get out of here quick!" I threw my hands up in exasperation after what seemed like half an hour of more useless wandering. I gave up. I figured that the others would start warming up right now and would be wondering where I was. A little more time, then worry and frustration would start to kick in. They would start looking for me and I would hopefully be found. But for some queer realization, I knew it wouldn't happen. I wanted to shout in frustration. I nearly kicked at my violin, which I had dropped.
"Whoa, whoa! Get a grip, Johanna! This is Stanley Park. How can you get lost here? Then again, who would've thought that it was this big! Just stay calm and think." So I did. I took in a deep breath and exhaled slowly. I picked up my violin and did another round of useless walking for another fifteen minutes before I finally let it out. Tired and aching from walking and some of my blond curls had fallen out of its twist, I slumped against a tree crying in frustration. I couldn't believe I was lost. I never should have walked here. Why in my crazy mind did I think that I heard a voice? Maybe it had been nothing at all.
There was a sudden noise nearby. I quickly grabbed my violin and stood up. I moved towards the noise and followed its direction. It was indistinguishable at first, then I could gradually make out sounds of people talking, shouting and water! I hadn't realized that I was thirsty that I found myself running towards the source that would quench my thirst. As I got nearer, the shouts became desperate and I heard a few male voices calling for help and other male voices calming them down. I finally entered a clearing which had a small slope leading to a river. What I saw surprised me. It was partly the indescribable beauty of the place before me. The other part was the group of people. Strange looking people wearing strange clothes, almost Medieval-like. They stood around in a circle with a rather small man lying still in the middle all soaked. I hid behind a tree and watched.
"Frodo! Frodo! Get up! Please!" I heard another small and rather chubby man say as he shook the still body frantically.
"He can't die! He CAN'T die!" a tall man with wet dark hair and facial hair knelt down before the unconscious man called Frodo and lightly slapped his face. "Come on! Come on!"
An older man with a really thick white beard, wearing a strange gray cloak and a pointy hat placed a hand on the man's shoulder, sadly shaking his head. "It's no use, Aragorn."
"This place is swarming with orcs, Gandalf. I knew we should have taken another route!"
Orcs? What on earth? It had taken time for me to take in all this and when it finally hit me, the small man had drowned! Should I help or not? I debated in my head. I was scared myself but finally impulse had lead me down the slope, dropped my violin at a safe pace and walked towards the group.
"Perhaps I can help." I said as eight faces turned at me surprised. I looked at them with a brave look, trying not to look scared. As I started to take a few steps towards the body, three short men, including the chubby one blocked my way. They were looking at me angrily with swords drawn.
I was shocked and started to back up. Was this a joke? I held up my hand as if I was being arrested. "Please! I am only trying to help! This man needs medical attention!"
"Not so fast there lady. Who are you? How do we know you can be trusted?" The tallest man in the group grabbed roughly at my arm. His steel blue eyes caught mine. I studied his features. He was fair and handsome with long blonde hair accentuating his youthful, yet at the moment, angry face. He looked human only he had pointy ears.
"Ow! Let go of me or I'll have you arrested for assault!" I struggled to loosen myself from his vice-like grip trying my best not to sound scared, but to no avail. He looked at me mockingly and started to sneer.
"Legolas! Let go of the lady! She looks harmless enough." The man immediately, yet reluctantly let go of my arm. I started to rub it. I turned to the old man with the gray cloak.
"Young lady, what business have you here?" He asked me.
I was getting tired of this nonsense. "Sir, if you please, I can help your friend! We're losing time."
"Watch it Gandalf! This may be an evil enchantress. I do not trust her." Another tall man with dirty blonde hair and facial hair sneered at me menacingly. "I say we kill her."
Evil enchantress?! Kill her?!?!! That was it! Throwing my shawl to the ground with all my might, I started to boil, which was very uncharacteristic of me.
I glared at the man who had insulted me and said calmly, "Fine. If your friend dies, it's your fault. NOT mine! You are all crazy! Some treatment I get for trying to help! Bastards!" With that said, I started to walked away when the gray-beard called out.
"Wait! Do pardon our behaviour!" He glared at the man, "what can you do for us?"
I stood looking straight into his eyes, "What do you think? I've been trying to tell you I'm here to help your friend and putting up with all your nonsense, but all I get is some superior treatment! Frankly, if you will please trust me and I do have GOOD intentions, you'll be doing yourselves and HIM (I pointed at the body) a favour. Now move aside!"
I shoved roughly past the man. Those who stood in my way had their swords down but still looked at me angrily I ignored them and knelt beside the man. Remembering all that I learned in CPR training class, I checked for a pulse on his neck and wrists. Finding none, I tilted his chin to clear the airway. The others watched at what I was going to do with fear and suspicion. 'What did they think I was going to do? They are NOT normal!'
With my right hand on top of my left, I started pumping five times on the sternum and blew two breaths in his mouth. I repeated this. I was conscious of the other men staring at me, gasping in shock. I stole a quick glance at their faces. I could see shock and anger. I resumed at what I was doing for the third time.
"What is she DOING?!"
"She's taking advantage of Master Frodo!"
"What audacity! STOP HER!!!"
I stopped and checked for a pulse but found none. I resumed with what I was doing. The others were itching at this and I didn't care. Right now, I concentrated in trying to save this life. Willing him over and over to give some sign of life. "One……….two………three…….four………five………Come on! Come on!"
I whispered under my breath. I felt a hand on me, gentle but firm.
"Young lady, I think you should stop now." The tall man named Aragorn commanded. I didn't care. I continued the fifth time. Out of the corner of my eye, the blonde man was preparing an arrow to shoot at me. If I was going to die saving a life, then so be it. But to my relief, the old man named Gandalf, simply held up his hand and said "peace!"
On my fourth breath, I suddenly felt the body convulse and he opened his eyes and coughed up water. I quickly turned him on his side as he emptied all the water that filled his lungs.
I sat back with a thump, light headed and relieved. I looked up and closed my eyes. "Thank you God!" I praised softly and breathed heavily.
"FRODO!" Everyone rushed to the man, now alive and gasping for air while coughing up water, and hugged him.
"Oh, master Frodo! We thought you were gone!" The chubby man (Sam) cried.
"W-wh-whu-what ha-h-happened?" Frodo gasped.
"You don't remember?! We were chased by orcs and you fell from that cliff and fell into a river and, and we thought….we thought…." The man who had insulted me earlier, Boromir, pointed at a very high cliff and was looking stupid. His dirty blonde hair was all over the place, his blue eyes flashing wildly.
"And if it weren't for this young lady, who happened to come by, we would've lost you!" Gandalf looked at me with grateful eyes and held his palms at me. I looked at it and placed my whiter hand in his and he helped me up. I brushed my long heavy skirt and composed myself. I thanked him.
"Young lady, we owe you an apology. Please do pardon our early behavior. We just didn't know who to trust." Aragorn moved towards me. "What do we owe you?"
Huh? Owe me? This was getting stranger.
"Nothing. I acted as soon as I knew your friend was hanging by the thread. It's a human impulse. You would simply do the same for me or anyone if I was in the same situation." I said uncertainly. I was calm now. Frodo struggled to stand up with the aid of his friends and walked towards me. He looked up with big shining eyes, "You saved me?" He simply whispered.
Gandalf, now behind Frodo, squeezed his shoulders and smiling, "Your rescuer."
I blushed, "Please, it was a human impulse. I would do it for anybody."
At the word human, the small men began chatting excitedly. There was another small man, Gimli, but rather old looking with a brown bushy beard. He had been silent the whole time and I just noticed his presence.
"A human! Another one of them kinds! And a fair one, too!" The small man bowed, "an honour to meet you."
I smiled, didn't know how to react. "And to you, too." I bowed.
"And what might the name of her ladyship be?" Aragorn asked.
"My name is Johanna. Johanna Scheidler." I held up my hand to shake with his but got a surprising look from him.
"A lady expecting to be kissed?" I heard that from Boromir and ignored it. Aragorn took my hand in his and looks like he was about to kiss it and I shook it smiling. "Hello. Ever heard of a hand shake?"
The little men, looked at each other, "Hand shake?"
"That is how people say 'Hello'? What is wrong with you people?" I said slowly. This got everyone confused.
"Not here we don't", said Gandalf. " Now that I am acquainted to you, you seem to belong to another land, I suspect, judging by your actions and behaviour."
I slapped my head, "No! I do NOT belong to another land. It is YOU people who BELONG to ANOTHER planet. I live here. This is CANADA, isn't it? And this is Stanley Park, right?"
"Canada?" Legolas turned to Aragorn obviously confused.
"Stanley Park" Gimli scratched his head.
I nodded proudly. "Right! And now, if you'll excuse me, I have a concert to perform in. It was nice meeting you all. So long, farewell, sayonara, adios, ciao, dasvidanya, au revoir, aloha, bye-bye, toodles, auf wiedersehen und guten nacht." I turned around, picked up my violin, turned around again to tell Frodo to take it easy and started to walk. On my third to fourth step, Gandalf stopped me by placing a hand on my shoulder. I looked up at him and he shook his head sadly. "My dear child, I am afraid you are gravely confused."
"Well, yes. I am confused. Can you tell me how to get back to my orchestra? I got lost on the way here. I guess this must be a hidden section of the park." I said casually.
This time Aragorn stepped up looking at me calmly in the eyes, "My lady, I do regret in saying this to you but I'm afraid you that you are no longer in your world."
I laughed politely, "Look, I have no time for jokes, alright? I am late for rehearsal and Maestro Berlioz is probably steaming mad at me and my mama and Sora are most likely worried sick. I cannot let them all down. This is my big day and please I beg of you not to ruin it for me. Help me, please."
Everyone looked uneasy. I looked at them and they were pretty good at playing this game, if it was a game. I could not tell. To me, they were just the lot of lunatics with weird names, and weird clothing out to scare people. I became very frightened. "You people are scaring me."
"Young lady, we are not trying to scare you. We are telling the truth. If you wish, you may wander around this forest for days and will not be able to find your home. The forest is infested with orcs and you are lucky enough to go undetected and not get captured and tortured in Saruman's lairs. Or, if you wish, you may journey with us." Gandalf said this calmly, as if he's not trying to scare me. But, how can it be? The voice, the fog, the unfamiliarity, the strange looking people that stood before me. It is all starting to make sense now. I was drained of energy as Gandalf nodded, his pale eyes boring through mine. I didn't realize that I had keeled over until the tall blond man with pointy ears, Legolas, had caught me. I looked at him and suddenly out of impulse, I elbowed hard him in the abs with a cry. He fell with a gasp and lay in fetal position from the pain, a hurt look on his face. The little men and even Aragorn laughed at this. I wished I hadn't done that, but I swallowed my pride. Pay back time.
"Don't you ever lay your hands on me again, E.T. or I will nail you for ten to twenty-five (meaning: years in the slammer)!" I shouted. I started to run, though I didn't know from what. From fear and confusion from what I saw or fear from within? They shouted and ran after me, calling my name again and again.
"It's dangerous out there! Come back!"
"Johanna! Johanna! Stop!"
"It's no use running, so might as well stop!"
I ran as fast as my legs could carry me and never in my life have I ran so fast! I was running though I didn't know where. It had become quiet. I was laughing, I had lost them. I stopped to take a breath and was barely finished when I felt an arrow brushed past my arm, barely missing me by a hair. It startled me and I gave a yelp. I looked around for my attacker and saw him poised on a tree, ready to strike again.
"Don't move or I'll shoot again!"
I ran anyways and missed the second shot, again by a hair.
"Johanna, stop! We are not trying to hurt you! Please, Lady!"
This time, I hurtled forward as a third arrow caught the hem of my long, heavy skirt. I gave an angry cry as Legolas yanked me up and pinned me against a tree, with my arms twisted behind my back.
"Let me go! Let me go!" I struggled frantically while tears were streaming by the rivers from my eyes. It was no use. He had a good grip on my arm. I felt like a caught criminal.
"Hold still!" He commanded and I complied. "Good. I will release you under one condition." I stood still and listened. "You must promise not to attack me in any ways or otherwise, I will do more harm to you. Is that understood?" I nodded and I promised with my fingers crossed. He released his grip on me and I gave him a really hard head butt. That showed him.
Legolas' hand immediately flew to his nose. I laughed while his blue eyes eyed me angrily, "AAAUUGGHH!!! You promised!" he growled through clenched teeth.
"Oh, dear! I forgot I had my fingers crossed! I am TERRIBLY sorry" I held up my crossed fingers and started to run, laughing.
"Don't think that I wouldn't!" His threatening voice called at me. I suddenly tripped again, this time over a vine. As I sat up again, I saw two of the small men emerge (the infamous Merry and Pippin) from a tree each holding an end of the vine, grinning mischievously.
Tired and spent, I used the remaining energy screaming on the ground, pounding it with my fists like a child. All of my decorum and dignity had left me and I started to cry in frustration. I lay there sobbing for a while as all nine men surrounded me. I was pretty much ashamed and wished that the earth would swallow me up.
I felt someone knelt beside me, "dear child, I know it is very difficult for you to believe…"
"Believe..? BELIEVE?!?" I choked through tears. Gandalf's gentle hand stroked my hair, which came loose and had dirt, leaves and Wolfgang knows what! "HA HA! Of *sob*all days, this *sob* has to happen today! I will never *sob* get a chance like this again!*sob* Mama! Sora! Come to me PLEASE! *bawl*"
"We are wasting time!" Boromir said impatiently, "we must hurry and destroy the ring!"
Ring? What ring? I shook. "Then go, if I'm wasting your precious time!" I retorted.
Frodo stepped forward and gently shook my bare shoulders, "Miss Johanna" I looked up at him through teary eyes, though it took me a while. "I believe this belongs to you." He said meekly and gently placed my violin case in front of me. I hadn't realized that I had dropped it. Frodo backed away a safe distance from me quickly. I looked at my violin, my papa's violin. I wiped the tears from my eyes, smiled and sat up. I took the case on my lap and just held it. It was the only thing that kept me sane.
"Look, she's smiling." Aragorn said encouragingly.
"What is it, Merry?" "I don't know, Pippin, but sure looks important to her." "Oh, oh! I'd jolly like to look inside." "Maybe it's a stash of beer!"
Beer? I chuckled. How could anyone fit beer in a violin case? I couldn't control myself and I was suddenly laughing like a hyena. This was all too crazy!
"She's also laughing!" Sam pointed and started to laugh. Soon everybody started to laugh for no reason. I guess laughter is contagious.I tried calming down but fell into another fit.
"Why is Lady Johanna so happy all the sudden?" asked Aragorn.
"This……..this………is ……………all……too………………..CRAZY!" I was wheezing and coughing from laughter. A hand was extended towards me. I looked up and it was Gandalf's. "Is the lady alright or would she require assistance?"
I took the hand and stood up brushing my now dirty dress that isn't black anymore.
"Oh, dear!" I muttered, "There goes my dress."
"Ahem! Now, as you can see, all hopes or returning to your world is not possible……" I looked at Gandalf, "……for now." He added. "Would you wish to journey with us?"
I sighed and resigned myself. I might as well. "Sure", I shrugged. "Where are we going?"
"That we shall explain on the way." Reassured Aragorn.
"Are you sure you are not playing a sick joke on me?" I asked again weakly. I could hear everyone sigh. "Just making sure, that's all."
Gandalf muttered something and lightning shot out of his staff, splitting a nearby tree in half. I stood with my jaw dropped, speechless. He turned to me, "Now do you believe?"
I nodded. "uh-huh………." was my weak answer.
"Good. Now, shall we?"
"Um, excuse me, sir, um………." It just dawned to me that I didn't know their names! "I believe we haven't been properly introduced. All of you know my name, but I do not know yours."
Everyone seemed to read my mind. Gandalf stepped forward. "I am called Gandalf the Grey. I am a wizard. These good friends of mine are hobbits, men, dwarf and elf."
I raised my eyebrow but stepped forward to shake his hand, which was firm and warm.
"These good hobbits are Frodo Baggins, Samwise Gamgee, Meriadoc Brandybuck and Peregin Took."
Frodo smiled warmly and he held up his hand in a hand and I shook it. "A pleasure to meet you Miss Johanna. My sincerest gratitude for saving my life." I blushed and smiled, "Don't mention it. You thanked me once already. I'm glad I did it. I was scared, too because it was my first time."
Samwise stepped forward next, "You can call me Sam. I am terribly sorry for our suspicion back there. We didn't……………" I held up my hand, "There's no need for apologies, Sam. All is forgiven. Let's be friends." I held up my hand and he shook it.
Meriadoc and Peregin came up next, "Hi! I'm Merry and this is Pippin!"
'Supercalafragelisticexpialidocious', I smiled, "A pleasure to meet you both. Frodo is lucky to have loyal and protective friends." They both blushed and Sam looked down. I realized what I have said, "Hey, hey! I didn't mean it that way. I meant it in a good way. I'd act the way you did if someone strange was going to do something to my friends. Be proud of yourselves." This lightened Merry and Pippin up and we shook hands as friends.
"Is that beer by chance?" asked Merry. I laughed. "No, no. It's my violin!"
Merry and Pippin looked at each other puzzled. "What's that?" "Dunno"
Gandalf, looking satisfied, gestured towards Aragorn, "This is Aragorn, son of Arathorn."
Aragorn stepped forward, this time taking her hand in his and kissing it. "A pleasure meeting a Lady such as yourself." I blushed, my hands tingling, "Thank you."
"Boromir, son of…" I stared at the tall man and froze. I can still hear him calling me an evil enchantress. I stood stiff and nodded, "Pleasure meeting you. No hard feelings." I extended my hand and smiled. He looked at me without a single hint of regret, but indifference. Atleast he took the effort to smile and shake hands. "Pleasure" he muttered smiling. One can always be civil, right?
"Gimli the Dwarf, son of Gloin" Gimli stepped forward and bowed, "Milady, 'tis an honor to be in the company of Frodo's rescuer." I knelt and placed a hand on his shouder and smiled sincerely, "Such formality! Are you dwarves always this sweet?" Gimli blushed. I heard Legolas snort. "Pleasure meeting you as well." We shook hands.
"And last, but not least, Legolas Greenleaf, Son of King Thranduil, Elven Prince of Mirkwood."
I looked at Legolas, who was still rubbing his nose with both hands. It was a comical sight, "I thig yo browg ma node!" I smirked, "You're welcome, your highness. That's for attempting to shishkabob me!" I curtsied. 'Don't mess with me.'
Gandalf eyed me and joked, "What? No handshakes? Such disrespect towards a prince! Met for two hours and already settling scores, are we? What did you do to her this time?" Everyone laughed at this.
"Thad iz nu funnie!" This made everyone laugh harder.
"Maybe later." I jokingly blew a kiss Legolas' way. 'Loser.'
I suddenly gasped. Did I hear correctly? Had he said two hours?! Everybody should be starting right now, without me. I sighed heavily. Worst case scenario is that they have had canceled the performance until I return. In the meanwhile, I'll have to think of an explanation for Maestro Berlioz and Sora, especially mama. But I can't think about that right now. I felt a hand tugging my skirt and looked down at Frodo. I knelt so that I was eye level with him. "I know that this day must be special to you, and I'm sorry for your misfortune. But you must help us on this journey, if you can. One more is better than one less. Besides, I see a fire in you that could be an asset on this journey."
I smiled at this hobbit's sincerity and kind heart, "Bless your heart, Frodo. I'll try to help, however way I can. You must tell me what I'm helping you with though and I'm trusting you'll do just that."
As we started to leave, I felt someone wrap something silky around my shoulder. I turned to face Aragorn. "I believe this belongs to you. We do not want any ladies freezing along the way now." My shawl!
"Thank you." I liked him. He is such a caring and sensitive person, unlike Boromir. We became fast friends. I have developed a soft spot for the hobbits and we talked and laughed alot. I was my gentle and friendly self again and gradually my worries had left me. So forward we went and plunged ourselves into the unknown.
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End of Chapter 1~ Chapter Two coming whenever I get to finish it.
I know this is a really long and boring chapter, but it was my first attempt to write an adventure fic. I hope you enjoyed it nonetheless. Please give me your thoughts and feedback. Thank you very much.
Disclaimer:I do not own LOTR characters. They belong to Tolkien. Johanna (pronounced Yohannah), Sora and Maestro Berlioz are mine. I hope you enjoy (
A/N: Just jumping ahead of time. Hence the date.
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May 31, 2002
This has been quite an unusual night! I hardly know where and when to begin. I guess all I can say is that never in my dreams did I wish to experience what I went through today. But after thinking about the events that have occurred tonight, I have to admit at the same time I have had the time of my life, in a queer sense. What I thought would be an innocent stroll in the woods had turned out to be a fight for my own survival along with a group called the Fellowship. It all started…………………………….
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"Hmm…do I look pretty or what?" I grinned in delight as I glanced at myself at one of the washroom mirror in my new black dress.
"You look like a knock-out. No, wait! You ARE one, Johanna," my best friend, Sora, told me, "especially for tonight, concert violinist!"
I smiled. Tonight is my big night, which I perform in Stanley Park with the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra for the first time. After all those years of hard work, blood, tears and sweat, not to mention encouragement from my mama and little brother, and especially from my papa, who sadly passed away three years ago from a boating accident, I have finally reached my long- term desire: to perform a Mozart concerto, my all-time favourite composer, with one of the best orchestras in Canada. I studied my dress. It was a two- piece tube dress, one which my mother have and still disapproved because it was, in her terms "immodest", but she can't do anything about that right now. Besides, I have a matching shawl anyways. I turned to look at my best friend, the principal clarinetist. She is dressed in a black fitting skirt that had two slits and a really nice black-laced tank top. She has much more defined curves and is slimmer than I am.
I smiled, "So do you, principal clarinet."
"So, are you really nervous?", Sora eyed me with a hint of concern, "of course you'll do fine! You're Johanna Scheidler! You've got music in your blood!"
I sighed sadly, "I wish my papa was here tonight to see his wish for me come true."
Sora put her arms around me in a hug, "Of course he is! He is among the stars watching over you! You're guardian angel!"
I hugged her back, "I know, I know. I can feel his presence stronger than ever. Thank you so much, Sora. For your support and all. What can I do without you?" I also pointed at the small golden angel pin on my right bosom. "I've got this reminder as well."
"That's what friends are for! Now come on, we'd better get out of here and go outside. The sun's setting and it's really nice. We've only got, like, an hour and a half. Come on!"
"Alright!" I picked up my violin in its case, which belonged to my father, and we strolled out laughing like little girls and I linked my arms with hers.
It was indeed a beautiful spring evening. Not too cold and not too warm. There was a gentle breeze and for some queer reason, I heard someone indistinctively and inaudibly call out my name. I stopped to listen.
"What is it?" I turned to my best friend, "Oh, it's nothing. I thought I heard someone call out my name. I must be hearing things."
"You're just nervous. A little walk will calm your nerves down." I shook it off and resumed walking with her. Five minutes later, I heard it again, this time it was slightly louder.
"Joooooooo-hhhhaaaaaaaaaaa-nnnnnnnnnnaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaahh……………."
Who on earth is calling me? Either my mind was playing tricks on me or the breeze was whispering my name.
"Jooooooo-hhhhhaaaaaaaaaaaa-nnnnaaaaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhhhhhh………………."
This time, for certain, it was a distinct whisper. I excused myself. "Um, Sora, I hope you don't mind but is it okay I take a stroll in the woods? I need a few moments of peace, just to relax a bit."
She gave me a curious look, but let me go, "Um, okay. Are you sure you're alright?"
The voice became a distinctive , audible whisper. The voice sounded somewhat eerie, yet comforting and gentle at the same time.
"Jooooooo-hhhaaaaaaaaaa-nnnnnnaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhh…………………."
"Yes, yes. I'm fine, thanks. I'll be back soon."
"Alright, I'll be over where the other guys are, see ya!" Sora headed towards where the other musicians were having a few drinks and appetizers while chatting about random things. I headed towards the part of the park with lots of trees with my violin and walked straight. For a strange reason, I was drawn to it. And it was strange. Why was suddenly so attracted to the forest? I stopped and listened. There was no voice this time. Who or what was it that was calling me? I couldn't tell if it was a male or female voice. Just someone calling my name. I was puzzled and confused. I suddenly felt something. Like I had to be somewhere, that I was needed. But for what? The voice that I heard sounded urgent. I wrapped my shawl around my shoulders. It was quite chilly. I walked further suddenly admiring the beauty of nature. How long has it been since I walked through a place like this? A sudden and stinging pain stabbed at my heart as a memory flooded my mind. It had also been a beautiful evening like this when my papa had taken me to walks such as these. I smiled even through pain.
As a little child, he use to tell me stories from the Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis. My favourite books. We acted out certain characters from the books, him being Tumnus the faun, sometimes Aslan, and me being Lucy Pevensie. I remember papa telling me one time, four months before he was taken from us, that not only forests are enchanting and beautiful, but there were guardian angels that protected my from harm. I have learned to love nature because of him.
I walked further and further. The fog was getting thicker that it gradually reduced my visibility. 'Where am I?' I wondered to my self as I suddenly found myself lost in the fog. 'I thought the weatherman had forecasted a clear day. I guess he was wrong.' I suddenly felt worried. I wandered around for about fifteen minutes then it dawned to me that I was lost. I started to be frightened. 'Oh, shoot! If I don't get out of here, I'll miss the chance of my life! Maestro Berlioz would be so angry at me for letting everyone down and so will mama!' That was it!
"Hello! Can anybody hear me?! Sora!" I started to shout for help in hopes that anybody, ANYBODY would hear me and find me. My shouts had been in vain."Mama! Sora! Maestro Berlioz! ANYBODY!"
I have never felt my heart race so wildly in my chest. I was officially scared. The fog began to thicken as I walked through the forest. It was so thick that it literally suffocated me. There was something strange about the fog. So enchanting, mysterious, magical. I scoffed at the thought and ignored it, though it was persistent within me. At last the fog gradually cleared up and I was relieved. I can finally go back and meet Sora and the others. However, there was something strange though. I looked around and the forest looked and seemed a bit different. I looked at my watch and for some reason, it was stuck at the time I started taking my walk in the woods.
"Oh, great! My watch has decided to die on me! Now, I shall never know how much time I have left before the concert starts! Blast! I need to get out of here quick!" I threw my hands up in exasperation after what seemed like half an hour of more useless wandering. I gave up. I figured that the others would start warming up right now and would be wondering where I was. A little more time, then worry and frustration would start to kick in. They would start looking for me and I would hopefully be found. But for some queer realization, I knew it wouldn't happen. I wanted to shout in frustration. I nearly kicked at my violin, which I had dropped.
"Whoa, whoa! Get a grip, Johanna! This is Stanley Park. How can you get lost here? Then again, who would've thought that it was this big! Just stay calm and think." So I did. I took in a deep breath and exhaled slowly. I picked up my violin and did another round of useless walking for another fifteen minutes before I finally let it out. Tired and aching from walking and some of my blond curls had fallen out of its twist, I slumped against a tree crying in frustration. I couldn't believe I was lost. I never should have walked here. Why in my crazy mind did I think that I heard a voice? Maybe it had been nothing at all.
There was a sudden noise nearby. I quickly grabbed my violin and stood up. I moved towards the noise and followed its direction. It was indistinguishable at first, then I could gradually make out sounds of people talking, shouting and water! I hadn't realized that I was thirsty that I found myself running towards the source that would quench my thirst. As I got nearer, the shouts became desperate and I heard a few male voices calling for help and other male voices calming them down. I finally entered a clearing which had a small slope leading to a river. What I saw surprised me. It was partly the indescribable beauty of the place before me. The other part was the group of people. Strange looking people wearing strange clothes, almost Medieval-like. They stood around in a circle with a rather small man lying still in the middle all soaked. I hid behind a tree and watched.
"Frodo! Frodo! Get up! Please!" I heard another small and rather chubby man say as he shook the still body frantically.
"He can't die! He CAN'T die!" a tall man with wet dark hair and facial hair knelt down before the unconscious man called Frodo and lightly slapped his face. "Come on! Come on!"
An older man with a really thick white beard, wearing a strange gray cloak and a pointy hat placed a hand on the man's shoulder, sadly shaking his head. "It's no use, Aragorn."
"This place is swarming with orcs, Gandalf. I knew we should have taken another route!"
Orcs? What on earth? It had taken time for me to take in all this and when it finally hit me, the small man had drowned! Should I help or not? I debated in my head. I was scared myself but finally impulse had lead me down the slope, dropped my violin at a safe pace and walked towards the group.
"Perhaps I can help." I said as eight faces turned at me surprised. I looked at them with a brave look, trying not to look scared. As I started to take a few steps towards the body, three short men, including the chubby one blocked my way. They were looking at me angrily with swords drawn.
I was shocked and started to back up. Was this a joke? I held up my hand as if I was being arrested. "Please! I am only trying to help! This man needs medical attention!"
"Not so fast there lady. Who are you? How do we know you can be trusted?" The tallest man in the group grabbed roughly at my arm. His steel blue eyes caught mine. I studied his features. He was fair and handsome with long blonde hair accentuating his youthful, yet at the moment, angry face. He looked human only he had pointy ears.
"Ow! Let go of me or I'll have you arrested for assault!" I struggled to loosen myself from his vice-like grip trying my best not to sound scared, but to no avail. He looked at me mockingly and started to sneer.
"Legolas! Let go of the lady! She looks harmless enough." The man immediately, yet reluctantly let go of my arm. I started to rub it. I turned to the old man with the gray cloak.
"Young lady, what business have you here?" He asked me.
I was getting tired of this nonsense. "Sir, if you please, I can help your friend! We're losing time."
"Watch it Gandalf! This may be an evil enchantress. I do not trust her." Another tall man with dirty blonde hair and facial hair sneered at me menacingly. "I say we kill her."
Evil enchantress?! Kill her?!?!! That was it! Throwing my shawl to the ground with all my might, I started to boil, which was very uncharacteristic of me.
I glared at the man who had insulted me and said calmly, "Fine. If your friend dies, it's your fault. NOT mine! You are all crazy! Some treatment I get for trying to help! Bastards!" With that said, I started to walked away when the gray-beard called out.
"Wait! Do pardon our behaviour!" He glared at the man, "what can you do for us?"
I stood looking straight into his eyes, "What do you think? I've been trying to tell you I'm here to help your friend and putting up with all your nonsense, but all I get is some superior treatment! Frankly, if you will please trust me and I do have GOOD intentions, you'll be doing yourselves and HIM (I pointed at the body) a favour. Now move aside!"
I shoved roughly past the man. Those who stood in my way had their swords down but still looked at me angrily I ignored them and knelt beside the man. Remembering all that I learned in CPR training class, I checked for a pulse on his neck and wrists. Finding none, I tilted his chin to clear the airway. The others watched at what I was going to do with fear and suspicion. 'What did they think I was going to do? They are NOT normal!'
With my right hand on top of my left, I started pumping five times on the sternum and blew two breaths in his mouth. I repeated this. I was conscious of the other men staring at me, gasping in shock. I stole a quick glance at their faces. I could see shock and anger. I resumed at what I was doing for the third time.
"What is she DOING?!"
"She's taking advantage of Master Frodo!"
"What audacity! STOP HER!!!"
I stopped and checked for a pulse but found none. I resumed with what I was doing. The others were itching at this and I didn't care. Right now, I concentrated in trying to save this life. Willing him over and over to give some sign of life. "One……….two………three…….four………five………Come on! Come on!"
I whispered under my breath. I felt a hand on me, gentle but firm.
"Young lady, I think you should stop now." The tall man named Aragorn commanded. I didn't care. I continued the fifth time. Out of the corner of my eye, the blonde man was preparing an arrow to shoot at me. If I was going to die saving a life, then so be it. But to my relief, the old man named Gandalf, simply held up his hand and said "peace!"
On my fourth breath, I suddenly felt the body convulse and he opened his eyes and coughed up water. I quickly turned him on his side as he emptied all the water that filled his lungs.
I sat back with a thump, light headed and relieved. I looked up and closed my eyes. "Thank you God!" I praised softly and breathed heavily.
"FRODO!" Everyone rushed to the man, now alive and gasping for air while coughing up water, and hugged him.
"Oh, master Frodo! We thought you were gone!" The chubby man (Sam) cried.
"W-wh-whu-what ha-h-happened?" Frodo gasped.
"You don't remember?! We were chased by orcs and you fell from that cliff and fell into a river and, and we thought….we thought…." The man who had insulted me earlier, Boromir, pointed at a very high cliff and was looking stupid. His dirty blonde hair was all over the place, his blue eyes flashing wildly.
"And if it weren't for this young lady, who happened to come by, we would've lost you!" Gandalf looked at me with grateful eyes and held his palms at me. I looked at it and placed my whiter hand in his and he helped me up. I brushed my long heavy skirt and composed myself. I thanked him.
"Young lady, we owe you an apology. Please do pardon our early behavior. We just didn't know who to trust." Aragorn moved towards me. "What do we owe you?"
Huh? Owe me? This was getting stranger.
"Nothing. I acted as soon as I knew your friend was hanging by the thread. It's a human impulse. You would simply do the same for me or anyone if I was in the same situation." I said uncertainly. I was calm now. Frodo struggled to stand up with the aid of his friends and walked towards me. He looked up with big shining eyes, "You saved me?" He simply whispered.
Gandalf, now behind Frodo, squeezed his shoulders and smiling, "Your rescuer."
I blushed, "Please, it was a human impulse. I would do it for anybody."
At the word human, the small men began chatting excitedly. There was another small man, Gimli, but rather old looking with a brown bushy beard. He had been silent the whole time and I just noticed his presence.
"A human! Another one of them kinds! And a fair one, too!" The small man bowed, "an honour to meet you."
I smiled, didn't know how to react. "And to you, too." I bowed.
"And what might the name of her ladyship be?" Aragorn asked.
"My name is Johanna. Johanna Scheidler." I held up my hand to shake with his but got a surprising look from him.
"A lady expecting to be kissed?" I heard that from Boromir and ignored it. Aragorn took my hand in his and looks like he was about to kiss it and I shook it smiling. "Hello. Ever heard of a hand shake?"
The little men, looked at each other, "Hand shake?"
"That is how people say 'Hello'? What is wrong with you people?" I said slowly. This got everyone confused.
"Not here we don't", said Gandalf. " Now that I am acquainted to you, you seem to belong to another land, I suspect, judging by your actions and behaviour."
I slapped my head, "No! I do NOT belong to another land. It is YOU people who BELONG to ANOTHER planet. I live here. This is CANADA, isn't it? And this is Stanley Park, right?"
"Canada?" Legolas turned to Aragorn obviously confused.
"Stanley Park" Gimli scratched his head.
I nodded proudly. "Right! And now, if you'll excuse me, I have a concert to perform in. It was nice meeting you all. So long, farewell, sayonara, adios, ciao, dasvidanya, au revoir, aloha, bye-bye, toodles, auf wiedersehen und guten nacht." I turned around, picked up my violin, turned around again to tell Frodo to take it easy and started to walk. On my third to fourth step, Gandalf stopped me by placing a hand on my shoulder. I looked up at him and he shook his head sadly. "My dear child, I am afraid you are gravely confused."
"Well, yes. I am confused. Can you tell me how to get back to my orchestra? I got lost on the way here. I guess this must be a hidden section of the park." I said casually.
This time Aragorn stepped up looking at me calmly in the eyes, "My lady, I do regret in saying this to you but I'm afraid you that you are no longer in your world."
I laughed politely, "Look, I have no time for jokes, alright? I am late for rehearsal and Maestro Berlioz is probably steaming mad at me and my mama and Sora are most likely worried sick. I cannot let them all down. This is my big day and please I beg of you not to ruin it for me. Help me, please."
Everyone looked uneasy. I looked at them and they were pretty good at playing this game, if it was a game. I could not tell. To me, they were just the lot of lunatics with weird names, and weird clothing out to scare people. I became very frightened. "You people are scaring me."
"Young lady, we are not trying to scare you. We are telling the truth. If you wish, you may wander around this forest for days and will not be able to find your home. The forest is infested with orcs and you are lucky enough to go undetected and not get captured and tortured in Saruman's lairs. Or, if you wish, you may journey with us." Gandalf said this calmly, as if he's not trying to scare me. But, how can it be? The voice, the fog, the unfamiliarity, the strange looking people that stood before me. It is all starting to make sense now. I was drained of energy as Gandalf nodded, his pale eyes boring through mine. I didn't realize that I had keeled over until the tall blond man with pointy ears, Legolas, had caught me. I looked at him and suddenly out of impulse, I elbowed hard him in the abs with a cry. He fell with a gasp and lay in fetal position from the pain, a hurt look on his face. The little men and even Aragorn laughed at this. I wished I hadn't done that, but I swallowed my pride. Pay back time.
"Don't you ever lay your hands on me again, E.T. or I will nail you for ten to twenty-five (meaning: years in the slammer)!" I shouted. I started to run, though I didn't know from what. From fear and confusion from what I saw or fear from within? They shouted and ran after me, calling my name again and again.
"It's dangerous out there! Come back!"
"Johanna! Johanna! Stop!"
"It's no use running, so might as well stop!"
I ran as fast as my legs could carry me and never in my life have I ran so fast! I was running though I didn't know where. It had become quiet. I was laughing, I had lost them. I stopped to take a breath and was barely finished when I felt an arrow brushed past my arm, barely missing me by a hair. It startled me and I gave a yelp. I looked around for my attacker and saw him poised on a tree, ready to strike again.
"Don't move or I'll shoot again!"
I ran anyways and missed the second shot, again by a hair.
"Johanna, stop! We are not trying to hurt you! Please, Lady!"
This time, I hurtled forward as a third arrow caught the hem of my long, heavy skirt. I gave an angry cry as Legolas yanked me up and pinned me against a tree, with my arms twisted behind my back.
"Let me go! Let me go!" I struggled frantically while tears were streaming by the rivers from my eyes. It was no use. He had a good grip on my arm. I felt like a caught criminal.
"Hold still!" He commanded and I complied. "Good. I will release you under one condition." I stood still and listened. "You must promise not to attack me in any ways or otherwise, I will do more harm to you. Is that understood?" I nodded and I promised with my fingers crossed. He released his grip on me and I gave him a really hard head butt. That showed him.
Legolas' hand immediately flew to his nose. I laughed while his blue eyes eyed me angrily, "AAAUUGGHH!!! You promised!" he growled through clenched teeth.
"Oh, dear! I forgot I had my fingers crossed! I am TERRIBLY sorry" I held up my crossed fingers and started to run, laughing.
"Don't think that I wouldn't!" His threatening voice called at me. I suddenly tripped again, this time over a vine. As I sat up again, I saw two of the small men emerge (the infamous Merry and Pippin) from a tree each holding an end of the vine, grinning mischievously.
Tired and spent, I used the remaining energy screaming on the ground, pounding it with my fists like a child. All of my decorum and dignity had left me and I started to cry in frustration. I lay there sobbing for a while as all nine men surrounded me. I was pretty much ashamed and wished that the earth would swallow me up.
I felt someone knelt beside me, "dear child, I know it is very difficult for you to believe…"
"Believe..? BELIEVE?!?" I choked through tears. Gandalf's gentle hand stroked my hair, which came loose and had dirt, leaves and Wolfgang knows what! "HA HA! Of *sob*all days, this *sob* has to happen today! I will never *sob* get a chance like this again!*sob* Mama! Sora! Come to me PLEASE! *bawl*"
"We are wasting time!" Boromir said impatiently, "we must hurry and destroy the ring!"
Ring? What ring? I shook. "Then go, if I'm wasting your precious time!" I retorted.
Frodo stepped forward and gently shook my bare shoulders, "Miss Johanna" I looked up at him through teary eyes, though it took me a while. "I believe this belongs to you." He said meekly and gently placed my violin case in front of me. I hadn't realized that I had dropped it. Frodo backed away a safe distance from me quickly. I looked at my violin, my papa's violin. I wiped the tears from my eyes, smiled and sat up. I took the case on my lap and just held it. It was the only thing that kept me sane.
"Look, she's smiling." Aragorn said encouragingly.
"What is it, Merry?" "I don't know, Pippin, but sure looks important to her." "Oh, oh! I'd jolly like to look inside." "Maybe it's a stash of beer!"
Beer? I chuckled. How could anyone fit beer in a violin case? I couldn't control myself and I was suddenly laughing like a hyena. This was all too crazy!
"She's also laughing!" Sam pointed and started to laugh. Soon everybody started to laugh for no reason. I guess laughter is contagious.I tried calming down but fell into another fit.
"Why is Lady Johanna so happy all the sudden?" asked Aragorn.
"This……..this………is ……………all……too………………..CRAZY!" I was wheezing and coughing from laughter. A hand was extended towards me. I looked up and it was Gandalf's. "Is the lady alright or would she require assistance?"
I took the hand and stood up brushing my now dirty dress that isn't black anymore.
"Oh, dear!" I muttered, "There goes my dress."
"Ahem! Now, as you can see, all hopes or returning to your world is not possible……" I looked at Gandalf, "……for now." He added. "Would you wish to journey with us?"
I sighed and resigned myself. I might as well. "Sure", I shrugged. "Where are we going?"
"That we shall explain on the way." Reassured Aragorn.
"Are you sure you are not playing a sick joke on me?" I asked again weakly. I could hear everyone sigh. "Just making sure, that's all."
Gandalf muttered something and lightning shot out of his staff, splitting a nearby tree in half. I stood with my jaw dropped, speechless. He turned to me, "Now do you believe?"
I nodded. "uh-huh………." was my weak answer.
"Good. Now, shall we?"
"Um, excuse me, sir, um………." It just dawned to me that I didn't know their names! "I believe we haven't been properly introduced. All of you know my name, but I do not know yours."
Everyone seemed to read my mind. Gandalf stepped forward. "I am called Gandalf the Grey. I am a wizard. These good friends of mine are hobbits, men, dwarf and elf."
I raised my eyebrow but stepped forward to shake his hand, which was firm and warm.
"These good hobbits are Frodo Baggins, Samwise Gamgee, Meriadoc Brandybuck and Peregin Took."
Frodo smiled warmly and he held up his hand in a hand and I shook it. "A pleasure to meet you Miss Johanna. My sincerest gratitude for saving my life." I blushed and smiled, "Don't mention it. You thanked me once already. I'm glad I did it. I was scared, too because it was my first time."
Samwise stepped forward next, "You can call me Sam. I am terribly sorry for our suspicion back there. We didn't……………" I held up my hand, "There's no need for apologies, Sam. All is forgiven. Let's be friends." I held up my hand and he shook it.
Meriadoc and Peregin came up next, "Hi! I'm Merry and this is Pippin!"
'Supercalafragelisticexpialidocious', I smiled, "A pleasure to meet you both. Frodo is lucky to have loyal and protective friends." They both blushed and Sam looked down. I realized what I have said, "Hey, hey! I didn't mean it that way. I meant it in a good way. I'd act the way you did if someone strange was going to do something to my friends. Be proud of yourselves." This lightened Merry and Pippin up and we shook hands as friends.
"Is that beer by chance?" asked Merry. I laughed. "No, no. It's my violin!"
Merry and Pippin looked at each other puzzled. "What's that?" "Dunno"
Gandalf, looking satisfied, gestured towards Aragorn, "This is Aragorn, son of Arathorn."
Aragorn stepped forward, this time taking her hand in his and kissing it. "A pleasure meeting a Lady such as yourself." I blushed, my hands tingling, "Thank you."
"Boromir, son of…" I stared at the tall man and froze. I can still hear him calling me an evil enchantress. I stood stiff and nodded, "Pleasure meeting you. No hard feelings." I extended my hand and smiled. He looked at me without a single hint of regret, but indifference. Atleast he took the effort to smile and shake hands. "Pleasure" he muttered smiling. One can always be civil, right?
"Gimli the Dwarf, son of Gloin" Gimli stepped forward and bowed, "Milady, 'tis an honor to be in the company of Frodo's rescuer." I knelt and placed a hand on his shouder and smiled sincerely, "Such formality! Are you dwarves always this sweet?" Gimli blushed. I heard Legolas snort. "Pleasure meeting you as well." We shook hands.
"And last, but not least, Legolas Greenleaf, Son of King Thranduil, Elven Prince of Mirkwood."
I looked at Legolas, who was still rubbing his nose with both hands. It was a comical sight, "I thig yo browg ma node!" I smirked, "You're welcome, your highness. That's for attempting to shishkabob me!" I curtsied. 'Don't mess with me.'
Gandalf eyed me and joked, "What? No handshakes? Such disrespect towards a prince! Met for two hours and already settling scores, are we? What did you do to her this time?" Everyone laughed at this.
"Thad iz nu funnie!" This made everyone laugh harder.
"Maybe later." I jokingly blew a kiss Legolas' way. 'Loser.'
I suddenly gasped. Did I hear correctly? Had he said two hours?! Everybody should be starting right now, without me. I sighed heavily. Worst case scenario is that they have had canceled the performance until I return. In the meanwhile, I'll have to think of an explanation for Maestro Berlioz and Sora, especially mama. But I can't think about that right now. I felt a hand tugging my skirt and looked down at Frodo. I knelt so that I was eye level with him. "I know that this day must be special to you, and I'm sorry for your misfortune. But you must help us on this journey, if you can. One more is better than one less. Besides, I see a fire in you that could be an asset on this journey."
I smiled at this hobbit's sincerity and kind heart, "Bless your heart, Frodo. I'll try to help, however way I can. You must tell me what I'm helping you with though and I'm trusting you'll do just that."
As we started to leave, I felt someone wrap something silky around my shoulder. I turned to face Aragorn. "I believe this belongs to you. We do not want any ladies freezing along the way now." My shawl!
"Thank you." I liked him. He is such a caring and sensitive person, unlike Boromir. We became fast friends. I have developed a soft spot for the hobbits and we talked and laughed alot. I was my gentle and friendly self again and gradually my worries had left me. So forward we went and plunged ourselves into the unknown.
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End of Chapter 1~ Chapter Two coming whenever I get to finish it.
I know this is a really long and boring chapter, but it was my first attempt to write an adventure fic. I hope you enjoyed it nonetheless. Please give me your thoughts and feedback. Thank you very much.