I liiiiiive! —channeling my inner Mushu here. Yes, I'm back and I'm alive and kicking. This chapter is…well it's interesting. It will be the push that the girls need to make their decision when it comes time for the dwarves to leave (therefore it makes it necessary) and it's got fluff for our couples (which people have been asking for). ;) I do want to make a note that I have a new OC briefly in here. I used my experience from when I was renting an apartment in a big city and my landlady was just the funniest, but sassiest woman I have ever met. She was a sweet little Asian woman and I just adored her. She did speak a little differently and I want to apologize in advance to anyone who might take offense to that. If you have a problem with it just leave me a PM about it and I'll change that immediately. Now…on to the story. Enjoy!
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Sara
Morning came and along with it a call from the hospital, asking if Sara could come in earlier for work. She was already awake, her dream making it difficult to fall back asleep. She sighed and got out of bed with a stretch. She walked into her personal bathroom and looked at herself in the mirror. Wow, I look like shit. She groaned and ran a hand over her face. Her eyes were bloodshot from crying herself to sleep and she ached everywhere. Stupid fight. Stupid dream kept me up all night. She sighed, I should apologize...but she should apologize first. I was only trying to help...but my dream...Sara looked up into the mirror and she could envisage her dream vividly...
Sara, a voice had called out to her. Sara he has finally come to you. You must trust your heart and fulfill that which was once predicted long ago. He will return your love, Sara, you know this to be true. When the time comes, you must follow your heart. The Valar have chosen you and your friends to save them and he will need your love to survive. You know of whom I speak. For if you do not, death will claim him and darkness will cover the land in the East...
The dream shifted and Sara felt as though she was watching a film. It started out in their living room, she saw how the dwarves had all fallen upon each other in a pile. Oh, I wish I had a camera. She smiled when she saw how her and her friends had tried to defend themselves with a bat, cheese knife, and pillow. Thorin is the one who caught me and put me to bed when I fainted? She then saw each of the introductions of the line of Durin; and she noticed that Kyra and Fili had a kind of light surrounding them, Huh, that's strange, but she also noticed it with Emma and Kili. Last was her and Thorin's first introduction, Was I really that obvious? God, that's embarrassing, the light around them shone much brighter. What does it all mean? She mentally blushed when it showed her and Thorin's passionate moment in the laundry room. Why is the light getting brighter? Thorin and her were completely engulfed in a blinding light. The dream skipped forward to her and Kyra's fight. God, did I really say that to her? I never meant any of it! She could see that the dream was moving onward and came to pause at a sight she had seen many times in her dreams. She was sitting in an elegant room that was quite large. Huh, it almost looks like...no...that's ridiculous. It couldn't be Rivendell...Could it? She saw herself sitting on the edge of a bed and she was wearing an elegant navy blue dress. She saw herself look up, as if someone had called out to her, and she had smiled at them. She could see the blush covering her cheeks and how she closed her eyes, leaning upward towards someone. Am I kissing someone? The last image she saw, shook her to her core.
She was standing on a battlefield; she could see herself covered in red and black blood. She was holding a sword in her hand, Am I holding Orcrist? and was leaning over someone. She noticed that, while her hair looked wild and untamed, she could make out an intricate braid in her hair and she looked to her ring finger to see a beautiful diamond ring was on her finger. Oh my God! I got married? But to who?! She heard raspy breathing, as if someone was taking their last breath and what she saw made her cry out in anguish. There, on the ground, with arrows and a spear through his chest, was Thorin. She saw herself crying as he reached his left hand up to her cheek. He's wearing a wedding band! I couldn't be married...to...She couldn't make out the words being said. However, she did hear Thorin's last words. He told her he loved her and he was sorry for not being strong enough. She witnessed their last kiss. So caught up with what she was seeing, she noticed her dream-self didn't see the Orc creeping up behind her. She tried to cry out, but nothing came. Then she saw out of the corner of her eye, Kyra had come charging forward and leapt in between Sara and the Orc just as it struck out. Kyra took the blow of his sword, but not before beheading the creature. Sara's dream self cried out in distress and watched as she held on to her best friend, dying in her arms. She could hear Kyra asking Sara for forgiveness and then nothing. Her dream-self cradled Kyra's limp body in her arms and crying for her friend. No! No, Kyra! Not Kyra! The dream shifted again to nothingness and then the voice called out again.
Sara, you are destined for greatness, my dear child. The path has been set for you, only you can decide to follow it. Sara, you must save Thorin Oakenshield from this horrible fate. You are the only one who can save him and you must find the strength and courage to follow your heart. You must also mend your friendship with young Kyra. Otherwise her fate will be sealed as you have seen. You must follow the path, young one. The prophecy must come true. Your love will save him Sara. It will save him...She had woken with a gasp, covered in cold sweat. She hadn't wanted to believe the words that were said, but the images she saw...
Sara shook her head and looked up the mirror again. I should probably talk to Gandalf about all of this. I wonder if he has made any progress...She was pulled from her thoughts when her phone went off.
"Hello?"..."Oh, good morning, Mr. Thompson. How are you today? Is your arthritis acting up aga—"..."Oh"..."Yes, unfortunately that commotion from yesterday was Kyra and Cameron...again."..."I'm sorry it interrupted your meditation hour, sir."..."Oh! No, there's no need to call the landla—"..."Oh, you already have?"..."Yes, sir."..."Trust me, it won't happen again, sir."..."I will. Thank you, you have a good day as well, sir."..."Mhmm, goodbye."
Shit! I forgot Mrs. Lang already gave us a final warning for the last big commotion that Kyra and Cameron had caused. God damnit, Kyra! She never listens to me! Why did she have to date that jerk?! Sara's thoughts were interrupted again by her phone. She looked to see who it was. Oh, shit!
"Hello?"..."Oh, good morning Mrs. Lang. How are you today? You know, the girls and I have been meaning to stop by for a visit. Maybe bring some of Emma's baked goods..."..."You've already had phone calls from the other tenants?"..."Yes, ma'am. Unfortunately, Cameron showed up yesterday and that commotion was him and Kyra."..."I'm sorry it disturbed everyone, again. But, it won't happen again, I swe—"..."Yes, ma'am. I realize you only let us live here because I'm a nurse and I help out with all of the elderly tenants. If you would just give us another chance, I'm sur—"..."No! There's no need to come up to discuss this! We can come to you."..."You're bringing an eviction notice!?"..."Mrs. Lang, I think that's a little harsh, don't you think?"..."Yes, ma'am. I'll see you in ten minutes." Shit! She's kicking us out!
Sara hurried out of her room and bolted into Emma's room. She shoved Emma off of the bed with a loud thump and heard Emma groan.
"Sara?" came Emma's groggy voice, "What did you do that for?"
"Em, Mrs. Lang called. All of the tenants have called her to complain about Kyra's big fight that they heard from yesterday and she's on her way up here to tell us to get out! We need to hide the dwarves, now!"
Emma bolted upright. She looked already close to tears. "B-but she c-can't kick us out! I have nowhere else to go!" Emma was sobbing into her hands. Oh Emma, she's had such a hard life. Yet, she's the sweetest thing in the world.
"Em," Sara pulled her into a hug, "It will be okay. We'll talk to Mrs. Lang and try to negotiate something. Whatever happens, Em, I promise we'll stick together, okay?"
Emma sniffed, "Even Kyra?"
Sara sighed. Kyra doesn't really have anywhere to go either. I may be upset with her right now, but I'd never abandon her.
"Even Kyra, but right now we have thirteen dwarves, a hobbit, and a wizard to hide in less than ten minutes." Emma's eyes got wide and she followed Sara out to the living room.
They're still sleeping. Well, they're in for a rude awakening. She motioned for Emma to go open the shades and Sara flipped on the lights. She bit her lip from laughing at the collective groan coming from the mighty men on the floor.
"Good morning, gentlemen. I'm sorry for the early wake up call, but we have a bit of a situation here," she looked about the room and saw that the company were all rubbing their eyes of sleep and then her gaze fell upon Thorin. He looked the most awake and he started towards her. God he is so handsome...focus Sara. You're about to be evicted and your landlady will be here in...Oh shit! Less than five minutes!
"Sara," Thorin all but growled at her, "What is the meaning of this?"
She sighed, "Our landlady, or owner of our apartment, is on her way up here to try to kick us out." She heard all of the dwarves grumbling, "Emma and I will try to get her to see reason, but until that time—" she looked at Thorin with pleading eyes, "I need you all to hide. At least until she is gone. I'll let you all back out once it's over, but please quickly grab your things and follow me to where you can hide."
Please let them be silent until Mrs. Lang is gone. She stopped at the office and knocked on the door. Gandalf answered and she quickly explained the situation. He nodded his head in understanding.
"Bilbo, Balin, Ori, and Dori," she waited for those four to come forward, "you hide in here with Gandalf. Maybe even help him with research." They nodded and quickly filed into the room and shut the door. She led the dwarves across the hall to Emma's room, "Oin, Gloin, Bifur, Bofur, and Bombur you all can hide in here." She waited for those dwarves to get into the room and shut the door behind them. Then she stopped in front of her room, "Thorin, Dwalin, Nori, Fili, and Kili you all can hide here." The dwarves nodded their heads and went inside, but she felt a hand gently grasp her arm.
"Sara," Thorin's deep baritone voice whispered in her ear, Oh my God! I could listen to his voice all day long...Snap out of it Sara!...
"Sara, are you sure you do not need help?" she looked up into his piercing blue eyes and smiled and placed her hand on top of his own.
"No, Thorin. Unfortunately this is something that I need to handle. Please, she'll be here any minute. I'll come get you when this is over." She saw him nod his head and he looked as though he was debating something. Then he leaned forward and kissed her forehead. She looked up at him in shock, to which he gave a small smile.
"We must speak later," he said gently and squeezed her hand before going into her room, shutting the door behind him.
Wow…What was that about? I thought he didn't like me…then again, he did kiss me…Oh! He's so...wonderful..."Sara! Hurry up! I can hear Mrs. Lang in the hallway!" Emma's worried voice broke through Sara's stupor and she raced down the hall.
She looked about the room to find it spotless. Wow, we should have them clean up all the time. Then came a loud knock from the door. Sara approached the door and took a deep breath. Here we go.
"Why hello, Mrs. Lang," Sara said sweetly as she opened the door, "My don't you look lovely this morning."
Mrs. Lang, a very short and petite Asian woman, glared up at Sara. "It no lovely morning, when I get several phone call in middle of night complaining about Missy Simmons again."
Sara moved out of the way for Mrs. Lang to come inside. Emma stood behind Sara, even though she was taller than Mrs. Lang, Emma was always terrified of the woman.
"I have rent contract with me and it say specifically, that there would be no more disturbances from the three of you, again. I already give two warnings. I know baseball rules, three strikes you out. Well, Miss Walker, this strike three and you three are all out!"
Sara gulped and she heard Emma squeak from behind her, "Mrs. Lang, please let me explain..."
"No! No more explaining. You were only living here because you nurse and your friends seemed nice. I have no problem with Missy Carter, but Missy Simmons bring trouble with her wherever she go. I am done Miss Walker. You three have two weeks to get moved out."
"Two weeks?! You expect us to find another apartment, in Manhattan in two weeks? We'll be lucky if we find one available in two months!"
"I no want to hear Miss Walker. It's two weeks or out on street. I know my rights and the law says I can kick you out on street." Mrs. Lang was fuming with anger, as was Sara.
Two weeks?! How the hell are we supposed to find another apartment within our price range in two weeks?!
"If you and Missy Carter want, I can write a letter of recommendation for a living place, but not for Missy Simmons. She have bad aura and give my business bad name already!" Mrs. Lang pointed a finger at Sara, "Two weeks, Miss Walker, or I throw you all out on street!" With that, Mrs. Lang left with a loud BANG.
"Two weeks?" Sara breathed, "How can we...There's no way...God damnit!" Sara started pacing the room. Emma sat on one of the armchairs sobbing into her hands.
"Oh, Sara!" Emma cried, "What are we going to do?"
Sara sighed and walked over to Emma. She lightly stroked the blonde's hair and shook her head, "I don't know, Em...I don't know."
After calming Emma down, she was still crying silent tears, Sara got up and went to let the company out. They each looked at her with sympathy, the walls in the apartment aren't exactly soundproof, and she knew they had heard everything. She came to her room last and knocked on the door. Thorin flew open the door and stared down at her. She looked down at her feet and told them they could come out now. She could see four of them had gone by her, but she looked up to see Thorin's concerned face.
"Sara," he sighed, "Sara, I'm so sorry."
She pushed past him into her room, she could feel the unshed tears in her eyes. Don't you dare cry, Sara Jane Walker. You can figure something out...You have to...She took a shaky breath and sat on her bed. She tried to shake the tears away, but she knew they would fall eventually. A hand on her shoulder dissolved her hard exterior and she broke down, sobbing into her hands.
Why? Why did this have to happen now? What am I going to do? We'll be thrown out on the streets! Damn Kyra! Her and her stupid fights with Cameron are the reason behind it! No...That's not fair...people fight all the time. Mrs. Lang is just a bitch! She never liked Kyra. The neighbors never liked her either. After that first fight and Cameron threatening anyone to dare interfere, they all hid behind their doors. I don't blame them. They just want to live somewhere safe and without dealing with the younger generation's problems. What are we going to do?
Sara was so lost in her thoughts, she didn't feel the bed sink a little by her, nor the arm that came around her small frame. When a hand rubbed her arm up and down, Sara looked up and saw Thorin's kind face looking down at her. Sara's dissolve broke even further and she collapsed into his chest, sobbing in his arms. She felt his grip tighten around her and a hand soothingly comb through her hair.
"Sara," Thorin said after Sara had calmed down a little. "Sara, I am deeply sorry for what has happened. Is there anything that my men and I can do to help you?"
Sara sniffed and shook her head, "No," she whispered against his chest, "there's nothing that can be done. We just...we just have to find a new home...I have to find us a new home."
"Can any of you return to your family's homes?"
She shook her head, "Kyra's father passed away a few years ago, her mother left when she was a baby. Emma...Emma lived with her grandmother after...after her sister died. Her father is still alive, but I will not allow her to go back to that monster." That sick disgusting freak. I won't let him even try to lay a hand on Emma, let alone let her go live with him.
She felt a finger under her chin, tilting her head until she was staring into steel blue eyes. "And what of you? Do you not have family you could go live with?" Thorin asked.
"I could go live with one of my brothers, my step-sisters would never let me live with them."
"What of your parents?"
She let out a bitter laugh, "My mother died years ago and my step-mother despises me because I look like my mother and grandmother...My father..." Sara shook her head and sighed, "Years ago he would have let me come back to them. But since I refused to marry the man they wanted me to marry and chose to become a nurse, rather than take over the family business, they..." she swallowed the lump in her throat. "They...disowned me."
She heard a sharp intake from Thorin and turned her face away from him, casting her eyes to the floor. "They said I shamed our family and that they never want to...they never wanted to see me again." Sara felt more tears slip down her cheeks. A large calloused hand gently cupped her face and turned her head.
"They are fools for saying such things to you," Thorin's voice was strong and gentle, "You are not a shameful person, Sara, for choosing to do what makes you happy in life." He gave her a soft smile and she returned it. He really is wonderful.
Thorin continued after a moment, "As far as your looks go..." Sara raised an eyebrow and saw him wink at her, "I find you to be the most beautiful woman, I have ever had the pleasure of knowing."
Sara was stunned. Did he just wink at me?...Oh my God! Did he just...he said I was..."You really think I'm beautiful?" she searched his eyes to detect any kind of lie, but found none.
He gave her a smirk and leaned closer towards her, "If I did not find you to be a beautiful person, inside and out, then I would not feel compelled to do this…"
His lips gently brushed against hers and she closed her eyes, responding to his kiss. It was gentle and sweet, but it did not last long. I will never get used to that. Thorin touched his forehead to hers and gently stroked his thumb over her cheek, "No more tears," he softly whispered and pulled her in for another kiss. Sara was losing herself against his soft lips and then her phone rang. Shit! That's my work! She abruptly pulled away from Thorin with an apologetic smile and answered her phone.
"Hello?"..."Good morning Dr. Young."..."Yes, I am running late. I apologize for not calling sooner."..."Of course, sir."..."I'll leave right away, goodbye."
She turned to see that Thorin was looking at her in confusion, "You were talking...into a metal object."
She stifled a giggle, "It's called a phone. It allows you to speak to someone right away, even if they are a long distance from you. It's much faster than sending letters."
He nodded stiffly but he his brows were scrunched in confusion still. He's so adorable when he looks lost like that...Shit! I gotta get ready for work!
She cleared her throat and approached him slowly, "I have to get ready for work now," she looked down at her feet and then back up at him. He was smiling slightly and took her hand in his. "We can talk when I get back..." she went on up her tip-toes and kissed his cheek. Is he blushing? Oh my God, he's totally blushing!
"Yes, we must speak later," he raised her hand to his lips and looked deeply into her eyes, "There will be much to discuss." She nodded and he bowed then took his leave. Oh my God...She sighed and closed the door slowly, watching him saunter back down the hallway...Shit! Work, Sara, work! Get ready now!
Kili
As soon as Sara opened the door, Kili rushed to the living room where he could hear Emma's sniffles. I cannot fathom what she may be feeling now. He saw her sitting in an armchair, with her legs pulled up to her chest. He slowly approached Emma and kneeled in front of her. He tentatively reached a hand out to her own hand and she raised her tear-stained face to him.
"Emma," he breathed and he reached his other hand up to wipe away her tears. "I'm so sorry." She sniffed and tried to give him a smile, so he gave her an encouraging one in return. "It will be alright. I'm sure that you will figure something out."
Emma shyly nodded her head and looked around the room, then looked back at him, "I should make you all some breakfast..."
"No need for that lassie," Bofur called from the kitchen, "Bombur and I will be taken care of the cookin' while we're here." He winked at her and smiled.
Emma shyly smiled back and sniffed again. Kili looked around the room for his brother and saw him talking to their Uncle near the hallway. He could tell that Fili wasn't truly paying because his eyes would shift towards Kyra's room. I wonder if she is awake yet, maybe that's why he is looking that way. I still cannot believe he saved Kyra from that horrible man. What kind of man lays a hand on a woman like that? Even after Kyra and Sara's fight, Fili wouldn't stop talking about it…about her…Hm…His eyes shifted over to Emma and he could still feel her hand in his. He squeezed her hand and she squeezed back, looking him in the eyes.
"Do you want to talk about it?"
Emma sighed, "Maybe after Kyra's awake. I need to make sure she eats and Sara...Sara will want me to tell her what's going on." She squeezed his hand harder and he looked at her in concern.
"How do you think she will react?"
"I don't know. That's what scares me. She'll be angry, of course," Emma gave him a tight smile, "But I'm not sure what she will do. She may want to go take her anger out on someone or she might lock herself up in her room." Emma was unconsciously stroking her thumb over Kili's hand, Mahal, that's distracting. Her hands are so soft.
He shook his head and placed his other hand on top of hers, he looked around the room again, No one is looking, he smiled and pulled her towards him. He muffled her surprised squeak with a short kiss on her lips. She looked at him in shock, but her cheeks were tainted pink and she bit her lip. Kili laughed at her reaction and then brought her hand up to his lips, "We need to speak later...If that is alright with you."
She nodded her head and then surprised him by giving him a chaste peck on his cheek, before getting up from the chair and wandering over to where Sara stood in the kitchen. Kili could feel his face heat up and a goofy crooked grin grew on his face. She's so wonderful...
"If you let your face stay like that, little brother, it will freeze that way," Fili's voice caused Kili to jump slightly. He half-heartedly shoved Fili away. "I can see that young Emma has captured your interest," Fili laughed.
He could feel the blush creeping up his face, Why must he tease me so? "Yes, she has, brother. I cannot begin to describe how I feel when I see her or when—"
"Or when you kiss her perhaps?"
W-what?! He saw that?! "What are you talking about? I haven't—"
"Kili, I just saw you and I'm assuming that wasn't your first kiss with her either," Fili gave his brother an evil grin. Oh...He's going to hold this over me for the rest of my life! "You have feelings for her brother."
"I...that is to say..." Kili sighed, "Yes, yes I do." He smiled to himself. "She is absolutely wonderful. I-I can't stop thinking about her and when we kiss—"
"Please, spare me the details."
Kili shook his head, "I can't even describe it...I..." he looked over at Fili and saw that he wasn't truly paying attention. He was too focused on looking towards the hallway, Hmm...perhaps he is worried about Kyra. She hasn't been seen since last night...Now that I think about it, both her and my brother looked rather flustered after our trip to the library yesterday...Kyra was complaining a lot about my brother whilst we shopped...Then Fili wouldn't stop talking about her all night...Oh! OH! Kili's eyes got wide and he looked over at Fili.
"What?" Fili asked. Kili just grinned at him and his eyes narrowed. "What? Kili what are you looking at?"
"You like Kyra don't you brother?"
"What?! What gave you that outrageous idea?"
"Oh...I don't know. You both came out of the library yesterday flustered and red in the face," Fili blushed at this, "Then Kyra wouldn't stop speaking about you in the store..."
"She spoke to you about me?" Fili sounded hopeful.
Kili loudly laughed, "Oh, yes brother! She kept complaining about you or brought you up in any topic that we conversed about. It was most amusing."
Fili blushed a little more and turned his face away.
"Then you go and save her last night from that brute of a man...If I didn't know any better, brother, I'd say you've developed feelings for Miss Kyra," he looked expectantly at his brother for a reaction. Ha! He's blushing and averting his eyes!
"I do not know what you are talking about, Kili," Fili stuttered, "I merely saw that she was defenseless last night and took the initiative to fight off her attacker."
Kili rolled his eyes, "You like her...and I am willing to bet that the two of you have also been snogging a bit."
Fili's eyes grew wide, "How-how did you—there is no way of knowing that. If it did indeed happen...which it did not..."
Hmm...I wonder..."Oh! Hello Kyra!" Kili called out looking over Fili's shoulder. Fili whipped around to see her, but she wasn't there. Kili ended up rolling on the floor laughing. "You're face!" he said between breaths, "y-you're face was priceless! I knew something happened between you two."
"All right, all right! Knock it off!" Fili exasperatedly said, "Fine," he sighed, "I-she...that is...we kissed."
Kili laughed even harder, "I knew it! What happened exactly?" Fili then went on to tell him what all went on during their stop at the library.
"She just pulled you in for a kiss? All because she was jealous of another woman?" Kili laughed.
"I suppose so," Fili said with uncertainty. "I have never felt that way for someone before Kili...It is..."
"Indescribable..." they said in unison with a laugh.
Kili grinned and patted his brother on the back, "I am happy for you brother. She will definitely keep you on your toes," he laughed when Fili groaned and put his hands to his face. Then his attention was torn away when he heard Emma's name be called from the kitchen.
Emma
"Emma?" Sara inquired, "Do you think you can make sure that Kyra takes some Aspirin? I have no doubt that she will have quite a headache when she wakes up."
"Of course," Emma sighed, "Do you need me to tell her what's going on? What if she gets upset or she tries to punch someone or she—"
"Emma, I'm sure she'll only just be upset," Sara calmly supplied, "We will figure something out. But I think it would be best if you spoke to her about it…I don't think she will want to talk to me for a while."
Poor Sara, she must feel guilty about the fight. It's not the first time they have fought and not spoken to each other for a few days...but what if they don't make up this time?
"Well," Sara's voice interrupted Emma's train of thought, "I better go. I'm already late. I'll see you all later!" Sara called out to everyone as she headed for the door. Thorin followed behind her and Emma saw them speaking to each other. Huh, I wonder what's going on there? Oh! He kissed her cheek! Aww! How cute! Emma smiled to herself.
"What are you smiling at, my dear?"
"Oh!" Emma looked to see Kili smiling down at her, "Oh, nothing. I just noticed something happen between Thorin and Sara is all. They make quite the couple."
Kili chuckled and leaned closer to her and whispered, "I hope they are not the only one, my love."
Emma's eyes grew wide and she felt her cheeks heat up. Oh my! We're a couple? But he hasn't asked me anything...maybe he is waiting?
"I-I better go take this Aspirin to Kyra," Emma looked to see confusion on Kili's face, "Oh! It's a kind of medicine that helps with headaches." She showed him the pills and his eyes grew wide.
"Ha! That is amazing! Such a small thing will eliminate a headache?"
Emma giggled, "Yes, it does help." She grabbed a glass of water and the pills and walked to Kyra's room. Emma stopped at her door and took a deep breath. Okay, it's just Kyra. She won't get mad at you when you tell her about getting kicked out...Oh!...I hate being in the middle...
She knocked on the door and then poked her head in slowly. Oh, good. She's still sleeping. She entered the room fully and proceeded to set the two Aspirins and a glass of ice water down on Kyra's bedside table. She giggled when she heard Kyra's light snoring and mumblings. Oh! I forgot she talks in her sleep sometimes. Emma re-tucked the blankets around Kyra's sleeping form and made to exit the room; but a loud groan and a scared whimper behind her, make her take pause. Is she having a nightmare? Emma turned around slowly and carefully looked over at her friend. Her face isn't relaxed anymore...It must be pretty bad if she is clutching her blankets so tightly.
"Kyra?" she timidly called out. Kyra continued sleeping but her mumbled words were becoming more clear.
"...No...no, please," Kyra whimpered, "Please...Emma...Sara...No!..."
She's dreaming about us? Oh my goodness, I hope she wakes soon. She tried calling to her again, "Kyra," she took a tentative step towards the bed.
"...No...blood...death...No!...Please!..." Kyra continued, "Fili...No!..."
Fili? I better try to get her awake. I don't want her to be scared like this. Emma sat down on the side of Kyra's bed and reached her hand out to Kyra's arm, but Kyra whimpered and pulled her arm away, clutching it as if burned.
"No!...Please...Don't kill me...Leave them alone!...No!...Fili!" Kyra's frantic and pitiful cries echoed in Emma's head. She tried again to get Kyra to waken.
"Kyra," she said sternly and shook Kyra's shoulder. But it wouldn't help. Kyra cried out again and scrambled away; she continued crying out to not kill her. Oh my! I need help. She won't wake up!
Emma swiftly got up and ran out of the room. Who should I get to help me? Gandalf? She could feel an anxiety attack start but willed it back down. Now is not the time to panic, Emily Rae Carter. Kyra needs you to be brave and get help. Oh...I just hope I can help her...
Her eyes scanned the room full of dwarves and fell upon Kili and Fili eating on the floor of the living room. Then she looked towards the kitchen table where Gandalf was speaking in low tones to Balin and Thorin. "Gandalf!" she cried out in panic.
His head turned to see her and she could tell he could see the panic in her eyes. "What is it, Miss Carter? What's happened?" he questioned.
"It's Kyra," she could see in her peripheral that Fili's head snapped up at the mentioned name, "She's having a nightmare and she's not responding. I've tried calling out to her and even shaking her, but she won't wake up. I-I don't know what to do. She's saying things too...about blood and death and pleading to not be killed..." Emma could feel tears welling up in her eyes.
Gandalf stood abruptly and made towards Kyra's room, Emma followed after him and she could sense someone else following after her. She peeked over her shoulder and could see Fili (concern and determination on his face) followed closely behind by Kili.
When they got to Kyra's room, they were shocked at what they saw. Kyra was now loudly crying out and thrashing about in her bed, as if possessed. She had tears coming down her face and Emma gasped.
"No!...No please! Don't kill them!" Kyra screamed. "Leave them alone!...AHHH!...Please don't kill me!...Emma! Sara!...No!"
Gandalf briskly walked over to Kyra's bedside and called out for her stop. Oh...Kyra! Please, please let her wake up! "Kyra!" Gandalf's commanding voice reverberated in the room, "Kyra...She is unresponsive. Fili, Kili...take hold of her arms and legs. I need her to be still for this to work."
Fili and Kili did as Gandalf ordered with Kili grabbing Kyra's legs and Fili taking hold of her arms. By this time, the other dwarves heard the racket and were congregated in the room.
"What's the matter with her?" Thorin voiced the question everyone was thinking.
"She is in the midst of a nightmare, however," Gandalf paused, "I fear that this is not a normal occurrence..." He looked towards Emma and she shook her head no. "As I thought, it is something sinister that has taken over her."
Emma watched with baited breath as Gandalf raised his staff and placed his large hand upon Kyra's head. He muttered an incantation that no one could understand and then repeated the process. Kyra...please wake up. Please...
Emma felt a presence next to her and she could see Bilbo standing next to her, giving her an encouraging smile. Emma didn't even realize that she had been crying, until Ori came up to her and presented her with a clean cloth. She took it with a small smile and then took hold of both Bilbo and Ori's hands. They looked back over to see what has become of Kyra.
Kyra still thrashed about, but the restraint of both Fili and Kili kept her at bay. Gandalf stopped his repetition and looked down at Kyra. She cried out louder and her words were more pronounced. "No!...Please!...Don't die...don't leave me!"
Kyra screamed so loud, that anyone would think she was set on fire. Those standing closest to her stood back and watched in horror. Oh my goodness! Oh my goodness!
"Kyra!" Fili called out desperately and ran to her side again. "Kyra, please, you must wake up!"
Kyra's screams quieted, but they did not cease. Gandalf took notice of this and stepped forward once more towards Kyra.
"Fili, give me your hand," Gandalf demanded. Fili looked up at him in confusion—which matched everyone else's confusion as well—and hesitantly, extended his hand out to the wizard. Gandalf took the proffered hand and placed it upon Kyra's head. What is he doing? Why does he need Fili's help? All who witnessed were silent as they listened to Gandalf's incantations once more. This time, however, Kyra's cries and thrashing stilled; a calmness overcame her form and she relaxed against Fili's touch. Gandalf looked between the two and muttered something to himself.
"Will she be alright?" Emma asked doubtingly. She watched as Fili began to stroke Kyra's hair and Kyra turned towards him.
"I believe she will be just fine now," Gandalf informed, "But we will need to keep a close watch over her. This was not an ordinary dream attack...Come. Let us leave Miss Simmons to sleep in peace." He started to shepherd the other dwarves out of the room, all the while answering their inquiries of what they witnessed.
Emma walked up to Kyra's bedside and took her hand. "Kyra? Kyra, wake up."
Kyra let out a groan, but did not open her eyes. Why isn't she waking up?
"She will awaken, Miss Carter," Gandalf's voice floated down the hall, "When she is ready."
Emma nodded her head and looked up when she felt a gentle hand upon her shoulder. Kili looked down at her with a small smile and squeezed her shoulder gently, "Come, Emma. Fili will look after her." He nodded his head towards his brother, whom Emma could see was still stroking Kyra's hair and had taken up her hand in his. He really does care for her...Emma smiled and gave a short nod of her head. Kili offered her his hand and she took it, threading their fingers together and left the room.
Fili
Once Fili was sure that none else but him and Kyra were in the room, he leaned towards her and placed a gentle kiss to her temple. "Kyra," he whispered, "Kyra, please wake up."
What kind of darkness took over her dream to make her act in such a way? If only she would open her eyes...her beautiful deep blue eyes...
Fili sat back but continued his ministrations of combing his fingers through her long brown hair and gently squeezed her small hand in his. He was startled when he heard a familiar voice behind him.
"You care for her."
Fili whipped his head back to the door to see his Uncle leaning against the doorframe, a slight smile on his face. He could also see the concern in his Uncle's eyes.
"Yes," Fili sighed, "Yes, I believe I do. I-I cannot explain how I feel for her, nor can I explain what she does to me when she is near, but I do care for her deeply, Uncle."
Thorin approached Fili and took a seat in the chair opposite him by the desk. "I have noticed, nephew," chuckling when Fili's eyes widen, "I would not make a very good King if I did not make observations of those around me. I have noticed that you and Kili have both shown your interests in Miss Kyra and Miss Carter."
Fili ducked his head in embarrassment and looked up at his Uncle, "If I may also make an observation," Thorin nodded his head to continue, "I have noticed your interest in Miss Sara, as well."
Thorin gave Fili a slight smile and nodded his head, "Indeed," Thorin agreed, "Perhaps, there was a reason for us to come here, but I am not positive about this notion. There is still so much that remains unknown as to why we are here."
Fili nodded. I do hope we figure out soon for what reason and why we were brought here.
"I will leave you," Thorin stated as he stood, "We will be having a counsel with Gandalf, once Sara has returned."
Fili nodded in agreement and turned his attention back to Kyra. Why am I so drawn to her...She disrespected me at first and then that kiss…Mahal, I cannot stop thinking about it. Why did it feel so right? Why does holding her hand feel right? I cannot make sense of these feelings towards her, but...Do I?...No, I couldn't be in lo-...A silly notion. Me? Being in love with a woman like her?…An infuriating, selfish, arrogant...beautiful, intelligent, and most amazing woman I have ever met. Mahal, help me.
A squeeze to his hand brought him out of his thoughts. He looked down on Kyra and he could see the calmness in her face. She sighed a little and mumbled something. Is she dreaming again?
"Fili..." she whispered. She is dreaming about me? He saw a smile on her face and she whispered again, "...Fili..."
Huh, I suppose she is dreaming about me...I wonder what about. He found himself smiling down at her and he gently squeezed her hand. "Kyra?" he called to her.
She stirred and let out a slight groan. She shifted her body closer to him and her eyes gently fluttered open. She blinked a few times, confusion evident on her face.
"Fili?"
He smiled at her and nodded his head, "Yes, I'm here."
She closed her eyes briefly and then looked back up at him. "What are you doing here? What happened?" Where do I begin? What do I tell her?
"You were having a nightmare when Emma checked on you earlier this morning," he explained, "She tried to awaken you, but you were unresponsive." Kyra's face was scrunched up in deep confusion. She looked around the room and then looked back up into his eyes, searching for truth. He continued, "Gandalf was the one who calmed your dreams. You were thrashing about and screaming."
Kyra nodded her head in understanding and then looked down to their still joined hands. Her eyes grew wide and she quickly retracted her hand from his hold. She mumbled an apology and reached for the water on the table, along with two small strange lookin… rocks? What are those?...By Aule! She swallowed them!
"What are you doing?" he asked in alarm.
"What are you talking about?"
"You-you just swallowed those rocks...Why are you laughing?"
"Fili, those are a kind of medicine that helps with headaches. They're not rocks."
"Oh..." Fili dejectedly said. "I-I thought they would make you ill. I did not realize."
Kyra shrugged her shoulders, "Modern world, modern medicine."
Fili nodded and looked back towards Kyra. Mahal, that bruise on her jaw is swollen...yet, she still looks breathtaking.
"We should get a salve for that bruise," he pointed out.
"Is it that bad?!" Kyra's voice rose in panic. She hurried to stand up from the bed but stumbled forward into Fili's arms.
"Whoa, steady. You've had a rough night and morning. Just take it slow, but no. It's not that bad."
Kyra's face was red from embarrassment and she stepped back a few paces when she gained her balance. She crossed the room to the mirror on the wall and lifted her chin slightly to see the bruising. A groan came from her, "Shit...how am I going to cover this up for work tomorrow?"
"I will go get a salve from Oin," Fili made his way out of her room to go find the old healer.
Perhaps this will be the opportune time to speak with Kyra about our...kiss. He stood in the living room, scanning the faces of the dwarves. Ah, there he is...What are they watching now?
"Oin," Fili called out.
"Hush, lad," Oin swatted a hand in Fili's direction, "Emma just put in this 'movie' about the Potter lad and he just found out he is a wizard. Most remarkable..."
"Oin, I am only asking if you have your salve with you for bruises and swelling."
"Oh! It's in my pack lad. The bottle with the blue writing upon it," Oin replied, still distracted by the wonder of this "Potter lad."
Fili chuckled and went to Oin's pack for the salve. "Fili?"
He turned towards Emma's voice and found her sitting quite comfortably against his brother's side on the couch. He rose an eyebrow at his brother, who blushed slightly and shrugged his shoulders with a smile, then turned his attention back to Emma.
"Is she awake?" Emma's concern evident in her voice and face. He nodded.
"Oh! I should go talk to her real quick, make sure she's okay."
Fili, Emma, and Kili headed back to Kyra's room. Kyra was sitting back down on her bed, brushing through her hair when they entered.
"Kyra!" Emma exclaimed and rushed to give Kyra a hug. "You're alright! Oh, I'm so glad you're finally awake."
Kyra smiled and gently soothed Emma's worries. She truly loves her friends. Fili sat down on Kyra's other side and gently applied the salve to her bruised jaw. All the while Emma was explaining to Kyra of what they witnessed of her while she was dreaming.
"It was awful," Emma admitted, "You wouldn't wake up. But then Gandalf placed Fili's hand on your head, uttered an incantation, and you stilled completely."
Kyra looked over at Fili, who gave her a slight smile and continued spreading the salve along her jaw. At least she didn't seem to mind that bit, I hope she takes the news of having to move out alright.
"What else happened while I was asleep?" Kyra asked and nodded her head in thanks to Fili for the salve.
"Well," Emma started, "That's...uh...I mean..."
"Yes?" Kyra urged.
"...We're being kicked out in two weeks!" Emma blurted out.
"What?!" Kyra's face grew furious and she let out a slight growl. "What do you mean we're getting kicked out? Why?"
"W-well..." Then Emma told Kyra of Sara's conversation with Mrs. Lang and how now they will have to find a place to live within two weeks.
"God damnit! That's so stupid! It wasn't my fault that Cameron came around here to cause trouble!" Kyra at this point had gotten up to pace about the room. Her hands were clenching and unclenching. I can only pray that she will not take her anger out on someone undeserving of her ire.
"How are we-? What are we suppose t-? Shit!" Kyra sat back down on the bed and put her hands to her face. "I bet Sara blames me for all of this, doesn't she?"
"Oh! No, she doesn't blame you. She knows Mrs. Lang has had a problem with you from the beginning for some odd reason and she hates that it was Cameron who started all of this..."
"But I know she blames me," Kyra stood again and fisted her hands. She was silent and trying to steady her breathing. She still looks angry...perhaps she is accepting it...? Without warning, Kyra grabbed the glass of water from the side table and threw it against the wall. "Fuck! Why did this have to happen now?! God damnit!"
I better put a stop to this before she hurts anyone else...or herself.
"Kyra, calm down!" Fili argued as he grabbed her from behind to pin her arms to her sides. She struggled against him and continued her tirade of curses and threats. After a while her struggling ceased and she was shaking. "Kyra?"
He heard a sniffle come from the petite woman and he gently turned her to face him. She had tears in her eyes and she looked like a kicked dog. Oh, Kyra...
"Kyra," he sighed, "I'm so sorry." Kyra bit her bottom lip to stifle the sob that tried to break through. Then she surprised Fili when she flung herself against his chest and sobbed openly in front of him and the others in the room. He looked up towards the other two, questioningly.
Kili, he noticed, helped Emma to her feet—who was also crying—and whisked her away with a nod to his brother. Thank, Aule for Kili. He knows just what others need. Fili nodded back to his brother and watched as he lead Emma out of the room. Fili had unconsciously wrapped his arms around Kyra's small frame. He sighed.
"Just let it out, Kyra," he whispered, as he continued to hold the woman in his arms, who always seemed so strong, as she broke down. "Just let it all out. I'll be here for you."
He almost missed the muffled statement from her, "Please, don't leave me."
He smiled a little and kissed the top of her head, before placing his cheek on her head, "I'll never leave you, Kyra. Never."
—
Author's Note: Sorry this took so long to post. I've been out of town (no internet in the mountains) and my children always take top priority. This probably was not what you expected and it's probably a bit long winded, but I felt it was necessary to the story. :) Lots of fluff and crazy dreams for the girls. Leave me a review/comment on what you thought; you liked it, you hated it, etc. As always constructive criticism is much appreciated. Next up: Will Sara and Kyra be able to forgive and forget? What will Gandalf reveal to them about the prophecy and how to get back to Middle Earth? The dwarves make an interesting discovery about the modern world. Thank you to all who reviewed my last chapter! I'm so happy with the responses I've had so far! Thank you also to all who have read/favorite/followed my story or me as an author! :D TTFN!
