The Accidental Arrival of Lauren Harris

by Mandagal12

While standing watch at a classified science facility, Lauren Harris is victim to an experiment gone wrong. Transported to a realm of magic and great evil, she must choose to adapt or perish. Not a tenth walker. (OC, pre to post movies) COMPLETE.

37. Consquences

Disclaimer: I do not own Lord of the Rings and I write this story as an avid fan with no profit or gain.

mindil: I'm going to respond to your PM's after posting this chapter. It's late here though so I may not finish my response until tomorrow. If you read this before then, just know that I haven't ignored them. In fact, I absolutely loved reading your thoughts and ideas! Thanks for the feedback!

jshaw0624: Ahh, don't be mad. You've been one of my oldest and active readers so your demand to update soon really stuck. I worked hard to make time for writing because I know how terrible it is to be left in suspense… Thanks for your support and making me type faster!

Pompeii1224: Lauriel is not going to only freak out, she's going to be super pissed off. Beware her wrath.

Tibblets: Hahaha yesssss. I loved how serious and thought-provoking your review began and then suddenly 'Pappa Harris is a dickweed'. I couldn't stop laughing. This chapter will give you the answers you seek. Hehe, dickweed… Still makes me laugh

Frostfire613: My response above to jshaw0624 also applies to you. I felt guilty reading 'I probably won't be seeing an update for about a month or two'… IN YOUR FACE. Took me less than a month! Work has slowed down a bit, thankfully. I know you hate cliffhangers so I'll just say this up front: I've already started Chapter 38.

Lona Beth Undorina, z fire, sweets1111, Guest, and aliceforgryffindor: Sorry but what kind of fanfiction writer would I be if I didn't have a super big cliffhanger to torture you with? Hehe, please forgive me.

Bad Ass Female Fighter: Yeah, hopefully the admiral's betrayal was a surprise. I wanted to introduce him as a loving and caring father, one that readers would trust, but then be hurt when he took his father role too far… Let me know what you think of Yessenia after this chapter.

ChibiFelicia: Thanks for the review! I think you'll like this chapter too because it has a lot of mixed emotions and plot development. In regards to what you said about Lauriel's name… I wanted to bring back her identity crisis that she struggled with in the first part of the story because of the sudden collision of her two worlds. Suddenly the people who know Lauren are meeting the people who know Lauriel are meeting one another and she's torn in two directions, but trying to bring them together. I think you'll find the last line of this chapter particularly meaningful. I look forward to your thoughts!

Feline Predator: I AM SO SORRY AHHHHHHHHH SO SORRRRYYY AOIJAOFIDDFJGOIJAOIJDSOIFHAOIGJEFHAGOIFHGOEAN ;OKJCXVOIDSHFOGAF… Please come out of the corner and rejoice, the wait is over. I know that sometimes it takes me a while to write another chapter, but I promise that I will NOT abandon this story. We are nearing the conclusion and I will, no matter life throws at me damn it, change the status of this story to "Complete". Bahahaha your moment of silence made my day. No, scratch that, it made my week. Now, dry those tears and start reading this ridiculously long chapter.

Lacrea Moonlight: Cute dog in your profile picture. Thank you for reading and leaving a review! … Can I have your dog?

Amanda: I'm sensing mixed feelings from your review… And I am super happy about it. The last chapter was supposed to be chaotic and rile you up- that's how Lauriel is feeling too. Two very different worlds are colliding and she's caught in the middle of it. It's a difficult and stressful situation to try and handle so yes, her relationship with Legolas was strained/awkward in the last chapter. It's what makes her father's betrayal even worse. I know you might be frustrated to have the story shift to "our" world, but it's something that makes this story unique and I think you'll be excited by the end of this chapter.

Drumy: Yes, I accidentally sent Merry riding off to Gondor instead of Pippin. Thanks for catching that mistake! I have gone back and fixed it.

Ikite: Here is the end of your misery. I am so sorry for your pain… But not really because everyone secretly likes a good cliffhanger. Muhahahaha

Quihi: Finally, thank you! You know, a lot of readers have been critiquing and sometimes complaining (which is fine with me because I love when people get passionate) about the way I handle Earth and Middle-Earth meeting. You are one of the few who has given me positive feedback about it! It's a lot harder than you would think to write about…

xEruaphadrielx: So, uh, how many grey hairs did you get?

A/N: It was quite the challenge to write this chapter. After creating Lauriel and developing her as a complex character in Middle-Earth, it was fascinating to describe her responses to our world… And a future version at that. I know a lot of you dislike the idea of mixing worlds and you're here to read about Middle-Earth, but just trust me. This is, above all, a Lord of the Rings fanfiction! I think you'll be very happy to keep reading. Also, thank you to everyone who pointed out my mix up between Pippin and Merry. I've gone back and fixed my mistake!

...

---

...

Chapter 37

Beep.

…

Beep.

…

Beep.

Lauriel turned her neck, feeling her head roll over something soft and large.

Beep.

She was vaguely aware of her arms laying alongside her body, and tried to move them.

Beep.

Her fingers curled inward, grasping at the soft material beneath them.

Beep.

The beeps of a machine stirred Lauriel enough that she opened her eyes. She shut them immediately, blinded by the searing white light that enveloped her. Moaning, Lauriel tried again, this time opening them slowly. Her vision was, thankfully, now clear, and began to adjust to the lighting.

She found herself staring up at a glass ceiling, transparent and revealing a cement ceiling high above it. The light came from bulbs at the edges of the glass, illuminating the cell with an artificial brightness that she hadn't seen in over a decade. It hurt to look at them.

Beep.

Lauriel rolled her head again, glancing at the machine by her cot. While she had not seen this particular model or brand before, there was no mistaking the standard medical equipment. Connected to her via wireless transmitters, the machine sat on the metal rolling platform, and its holographic display revealed her heart rate, blood pressure, and an ever-changing image of brain activity. The only other recognizable thing on the platform was the IV bag, filled with clear but suspicious liquid.

Beep.

"W-Where…" Her throat felt rough and she coughed, sending her body into an uncomfortable convulsion. "Where am I?"

Knowing her body was indeed capable of moving again, Lauriel struggled to sit up, leaning against a cold metal headboard. She found herself on a small bed, placed in the center of a glass box. Her heartbeat picked up speed when Lauriel realized she was not alone. To her right and left were identical glass cages, all filled with the other dimension-travelers. Most were awake, either busying themselves with a laptop, napping, or working out. A few looked in her direction, but when they did, they quickly looked away.

"Anna!" Lauriel fell from the bed and crawled to the right wall of her box. On the other side of the glass were Anna and Robert, who lay still together in a bed. "Anna! Can you hear me?!" Her fist pounded against the glass, but the wall held steady.

"Major Lauren Harris." A cool, feminine voice filled the room from an invisible speaker. "Welcome back to Earth. My name is Dr. Claire Ryder and I have been assigned to assist you in your recovery."

"Anna!" Lauriel screamed again, frightened by Anna's lack of response. "Where the hell are we?"

"Please calm down, Major Harris," the voice soothed. "There is no need to be frightened. You are in Blue Lite's quarantine facility. You and the other travelers from the dimension known as Middle-Earth will remain in isolation for a 24 hour time period. Once we cleanse you of any remaining bacteria and confirm there are no health risks, you will be released."

"Why isn't she answering?! Anna!"

"Major Anna Miller will be able to hear you once she wakes. Currently, she and the child are still feeling the effects of the tranquilizer. Rest assured, they are both healthy and well."

"Oh, Anna." Lauriel pressed her palms helplessly against the glass. "I'm so sorry. I'm so sorry!" She shuddered, taking her first look at what lay beyond the row of glass cells.

A large, impressive medical lab was a short distance away. Dozens of people, some wearing military uniforms, others medical coats, and a few in full hazmat gear, roamed the lab. Most were fixated on various screens and displays, analyzing what they saw excitedly. Those in the military garb paid no heed to the medical screens, and watched either footage of the cells or the cells directly. Unfortunately, the majority of eyes were fixated on hers. She was an exotic animal in a cage, put on full display of her captors.

Lauriel stood on shaky legs. "What have you done? Where is my father?"

"Admiral Harris is three cells to your left," the woman, still not visible, answered calmly. "Please, calm down. Your body is still feeling the effects of the drugs. Your dosage should have incapacitated you for another few hours, but with your new physical body it seems you respond differently. You must allow your body time to adjust-"

"Enough!" Lauriel yelled. "Leave me alone!"

Thankfully, the voice said nothing. Lauriel turned slowly, lifting her eyes to the cells on her left. As the doctor claimed, her father was located just three away from her. He stood by the glass wall, watching her worriedly. "Lauren!" His voice was muffled by the glass and distance, but her ears heard him just fine. "Lauren, are you alright?"

She stared at the man who had raised her, given her everything and so much more than any father could give a daughter, a man she had trusted with her life.

A man who betrayed her.

Ice crept into her heart and Lauriel turned her back to the man, ignoring his presence entirely. Instead, she returned slowly to her bed, taking shaky steps until she sat on its edge. Lauriel rubbed her temples, her fingers brushed against the stickers that held the transmitters. Angrily, she ripped them off and threw them onto the ground.

Beep beep beep beep beep beep beep beep beep…

The machine protested loudly, sounding alarms at the lack of brain activity. One look at the observing crowd in the lab informed Lauriel that no one would be entering the room to shut the noise off. Quarantine meant total isolation, after all.

"Enough," she muttered, and reached out to the machine. With one hand, she lifted the heavy metal machine and threw it across the room. The glass cracked in a spiderweb pattern, and the machine fell silent as crashed to the ground.

Her shoulders fell and Lauriel laid back down, curling into a ball. She closed her eyes to cast out the cell, to run away from the dozens of strangers who watched her like a caged animal, to forget the father and friends who betrayed her.

…

---

…

A day passed. It was the longest day of Lauriel's life, every second dragging as the reality of the situation continued to absorb into her mind. She did not speak to anyone except Anna, but even their conversations were kept to a minimum. Neither of them had anything to say – not when every word was recorded and so many eyes watched them. Aside from the small privacy wall that erected from the ground for use of a toilet, there was no hiding.

When they did speak, it was mostly for Robert's sake. The child was petrified, barely moving or responding, even as Anna cradled him and sang soft lullabies. After hours of the boy weeping, he'd finally fallen into a fitful sleep. When men and women in hazmat suits delivered food via an airlock compartment, Robert refused to eat.

Any hope Lauriel still held for the compassion of Blue Lite was destroyed when they gave no comfort to the child. No toys, blankets, or news was offered. When Anna had awoken, she screamed at the sight of her unconscious son and begged for any information about Holdred. It was only when Robert finally awoke that the redhead calmed down.

With so many people watching and no one to speak to, Lauriel used the laptop as a distraction. It seemed each cell had been provided one, to help pass the time. Undoubtedly, every click was monitored, so she avoided any personal sites and chose to review the news. It was hard to read and see what she had missed all these years. Terrorist attacks, another economic crisis, a hurricane that had decimated the Florida coast, a severe ongoing drought in the Midwest, a bloody civil war in China-

She cast the laptop to the side. Lauriel's hand pressed to her chest as she struggled to calm her breathing. Her fingers grasped at her shirt and she fell off the bed.

"Lauriel!" Anna shouted, waving her hands desperately. "Someone help!"

Her mind spun with the excess of thoughts, and her lungs heaved. She felt like an elephant sat on her chest, its weight threatening to crush her body at any moment. Lauriel struggled to look up. Anna sat by their shared glass wall, fists banging as she screamed for help. Robert screamed bloody murder from where he sat on the bed. Lauriel was vaguely aware of her father shouting for her. It was all too much. Too many noises, too many emotions, too many thoughts, too many horrible things on the laptop's screen… Lauriel curled into a ball, both hands clutching at her chest in desperation.

"Calm down, Major Harris," the cool voice of Dr. Ryder directed. "Our sensors indicate you are having some sort of panic attack. You must calm down."

Breathe. Lauriel closed her eyes and concentrated. Just breathe. Slowly, her senses relaxed, and Lauriel was able to breathe again. It took her a few moments, but soon she was able to inhale and exhale deeply. Still, she held her hands to her chest. While the weight had lifted mostly, some part of it remained. Her chest and core felt heavy, almost muted.

"T-The tranquilizer." Lauriel was able to sit up with some effort. Her eyes narrowed accusatorily at the medical staff that watched her anxiously. "How l-long will it stay in our system?"

For the first time, Lauriel saw Dr. Claire Ryder as she spoke into a microphone attached to a desk. The older woman was slender, her hair dyed a dark blonde with whispers of grey evident at the roots. While the personnel around her moved about in a panic and frenzy, she did not. She sat with perfect posture, her arms folded calmly on the desk. From behind her sharp glasses the doctor examined Lauriel like a cat watching a mouse.

Her expression was cool, revealing nothing as she answered, "Your last urine sample did not detect any traces of the sedative, and your current body scan does not show any of its chemical presence. Do you still feel sedated, Major Harris? We are here to ensure your medical well-being and…"

Lauriel's face tightened as the woman continued her empty assurances. They were even keeping tabs on her waste. What sort of sensors did this cell contain? They were scanning her body now? Were they scanning everyone or just her? There was nowhere to hide while they waited for the 24 hours to pass. Lauriel would have to be more careful. She could not show them any sign of weakness or vulnerability. Slowly, she lowered her hands from her chest and assumed a more confident stance. Her back pressed against the bed frame as she readjusted, sitting so that she faced Anna and not the medical team. Looking at the smug doctor would only feed her temper.

"… so we ask for your honesty, Major. The more you tell us, the more we can help you."

"I am fine," Lauriel said evenly, almost in a bored manner. "I was overwhelmed by the news I read. It will take some time to readjust."

A pause. "Of course. Please let us know if you are in pain."

"I will, thank you," Lauriel said flatly. She looked up to Anna and nodded, assuring the redhead she would be fine. They exchanged a long, meaningful look before Anna turned around to calm her crying child.

And so the next several hours passed in silence. A meal was delivered and its contents suggested it was dinnertime. It was difficult to tell otherwise. There were no obvious clocks or dates displayed, not even on the laptop, and Lauriel did not risk looking for a clock in the lab area. Something about that woman, Dr. Ryder, made her nervous.

Robert refused to eat more than a few mouthfuls of mashed potatoes. Being thrown into a new world was proving too overwhelming for the child, and he said nothing, instead laying on the bed and falling asleep once more. Anna gave Lauriel a tired and empty smile before joining her son under the covers.

Without being able to watch them and gain comfort, Lauriel ignored the set of eyes that burned into her back. She did not need to turn and look to know that her father had been watching her all day. She refused to look at the other cells too, knowing Jim, Scott, and Captain Rochester were amongst them. They were all traitors.

Sighing, Lauriel got into her own bed and used the covers to cover her face. It felt like a childish thing to do, but the blankets felt like a shield against the leering eyes that analyzed her every move. Under the blankets, Lauriel finally let her face relax, and she struggled to keep from crying. Crying would not solve anything, and it would only worsen things here. So she mourned in silence.

She lost track of time, her mind in a land far away with a prince that she might never see again.

Without warning, a loud alarm boomed through the lab and lights flashed orange and red in warning. Instantly, Lauriel was standing, body tensed and alert. An automated voice declared through all speakers, "Warning: Air lock release commencing in five…"

"What's happening?" Anna shouted, carrying Robert in concern.

"…four…"

Lauriel spun around, watching as the other men in the cells all got up and gathered their belongings. They seemed excited and happy at the alarm. Her adrenaline calmed somewhat.

"…three…"

"I think our quarantine is up," Lauriel said, as she came as close as she could to Anna's cell. "Get ready."

"…two… one."

The doors to the cells opened in unison, releasing their prisoners into the lab. The men walked gratefully forward, moving automatically towards the awaiting medics. Surely, they'd been trained on this procedure before. Lauriel and Anna, however, warily stepped out of their glass cages and met outside.

"Don't leave us," Anna whispered, his voice trembling. "I don't trust anyone."

"Anna!" a familiar voice shouted in their direction. Both turned to see Jim sprinting towards them, his face torn up with emotion.

"Especially him." The redhead beside Lauriel shifted so that she was behind the elleth. "I can't… I can't even look at him."

"I understand." Lauriel's voice was cold and harsh as she noticed her father also running towards them. "Come."

Grabbing onto Anna's shoulder, she steered them into the crowd of men and observed the lab more closely. Stations had been created to process each of the mission returnees. Blood samples were drawn, temperatures taken, questions asked, and notes written.

"Anna." Jim's voice was too close now. Lauriel pushed the woman forward and spun, her eyes glowing dangerously. Jim nearly crashed into her, but managed to stop a few inches short. His eyes followed his wife, pain clouding them.

"You!" Lauriel hissed, her fist colliding with his chest. It was not enough to draw attention from the men who continued to file past them, but Jim winced all the same. "You have no right to even look at her. Do not speak her name, not until she decides whether or not she will tolerate you, you pathetic excuse for a human being."

"I didn't know," Jim said hoarsely. "I was just following orders. I thought we were just going to bring Holdred and Legolas separately, not leave them behind! Your dad said he wanted to give them a scare, to make sure they knew their place before crossing over. Lauren, you have to believe me-"

"That is not my name," she snapped. "Leave us alone."

"I was following orders!"

She ignored him as Admiral Harris appeared behind Jim. The older man placed an empathetic hand on Jim's shoulder as he agreed, "He did nothing wrong, Lauren. They were my orders and-"

"That is not my fucking name," Lauriel hissed. "I am not Lauren Harris anymore."

The admiral frowned. "I know it's difficult to process, but you said so yourself, you're still the same person underneath-"

"No." Lauriel shook her head and her golden eyes burned. "You misunderstood me. I am not the little girl you knew, nor am I the woman who left this realm ten years ago. I am so much more than her now. If you had been a true father, you would have gotten to know this new Lauriel. You have lost that chance. You are a stranger, and you will find no daughter within me."

Fighting the urge to throw more than just punches, Lauriel gritted her teeth and moved away to follow Anna. Jim hesitated, then began to follow. The hand on his shoulder held him firmly in place, and the admiral stared at the ground. "Leave them be. They need time to understand."

"They need to know what happened," Jim murmured. "Especially Anna. She needs to know-"

"Know what?" a new voice demanded.

"Scott." Jim was obviously relieved to see the other man. His eyes darted nervously at the admiral as he said, "After you crossed through the door-"

"That is enough," Kevin Harris' fingers squeezed Jim's shoulder, effectively forcing the younger man into an intimidated silence. "Not here. We will speak later, after we've taken them home."

…

---

…

"Are we nearly finished?"

The medic peered at her sheepishly as he removed yet another needle from her arm. He was probably about her age, at least in count of years. In appearance, though, she looked a decade younger, but that did nothing to ease his nerves with her. "I-" He flushed. "I'm sorry, ma'am. They've requested a few more tests for you-"

"What kind of tests?"

His flush darkened and he turned away to finish packaging her blood. "Uh… I'm n-not really sure, ma'am. They just told me to take you to the cardio lab."

Lauriel frowned and glanced to where Anna and Robert sat. Their medics had finished taking samples and now the two waited anxiously for her.

The men who had been screened before them had already been released and sent to the next step of processing out for liberty. They were eager to return home to their families after such an adventure, and the apparent success of bringing back their mission targets deserved such a reward. However, things weren't so simple for Anna and Robert, who didn't have a home to return to. She refused to leave their side.

"Was that your last sample?" she asked.

The medic nodded mutely, avoiding her eyes.

"Then we are finished here." Lauriel hopped off the examination table, rubbing her already sore arms. She didn't think the needles and probes would leave bruises, but the pain told her otherwise. One glance at the exhausted Anna, though, forced her to ignore the pain. "Come, Robert." She reached down and picked up the nervous child. "It is time to leave."

He said nothing, but pressed his warm face into her neck, trying to hide from this strange world and people. Anna rose, shouldering the one bag that Jim had successfully packed from Middle-Earth. Lauriel glanced at the leather bag with a pang of jealousy. Her father had not been so kind. None of Lauriel's belongings had been packed – yet another lie. It must have been part of his plan, then, to force her to depend on his help since she had nothing but the clothes on her back – and hell, these clothes didn't even fit. The jeans were too tight and small, ending awkwardly above her ankles. The shirt was too short, revealing her stomach, while the sleeves were too large.

These were her clothes from over a decade ago. They were meant for the shorter, thicker woman who had left this world, not the tall and lean elleth who wore them now. At least she had her own clothes, though; poor Robert still wore his tunic. Anna's clothes still fit her, but she looked strange and uncomfortable in them.

"Ma'am," the medic protested, "You haven't been cleared to leave yet–"

"Have I not completed the same tests as everyone else?"

"Yes, but-"

"Then we are finished here," Lauriel repeated, pushing past the harried medic. Anna followed closely behind. Her commanding voice had caught the attention of the rest of the lab, and an awkward silence ensued. However, Dr. Ryder stepped forward, her heels clicking against the tiles below. She adjusted her glasses and smiled. "What seems to be the problem, Major Harris?"

"There is no problem, doctor," Lauriel said and smiled back. "We have finished our medical screening and wish to return to our families like everyone else. Almost eleven years have passed since we've seen them. I think it is time we are reunited, do you not agree?"

"Well," Dr. Ryder eyed the onlookers cautiously and her smile tightened. "Please try and understand, Major Harris, that given your… condition, we have an interest in collecting as much data as we can about you. You could be the key to the next scientific breakthrough, and-"

"She's not one of your science projects," Anna snapped, stepping forward. "You have no right to keep her here against her will."

Dr. Ryder flushed at the jab, and again, her eyes scanned the rest of the room. She was trapped, with too many witnesses to win this battle, and the woman knew it. Her fingers clenched the clipboard in her hands, but her voice was smooth and amiable. "Ah, of course not. If you are finished, you may go. I believe your debrief is in the west conference room."

"Thank you." Lauriel pressed her free hand into Anna's back and together the trio exited the still quiet lab room.

"Bitch," Anna muttered as the doors shut behind them and they walked through the hallways of Blue Lite. Lauriel grunted in agreement.

Over a decade had passed, but the two knew the general way to the conference room. The facilities were the same, but clearly there had been updates, such as fresh paint, better furniture, and newer office technology. They passed the various labs and Lauriel frowned, not recognizing anyone. She and Anna had guarded these rooms before and had known the scientists well, but none of the men and women in white lab coats looked familiar.

"Mama." Robert's voice was quiet. He moved his head so that it rested on Lauriel's shoulder, but faced Anna who walked alongside them. "Where is Papa?"

Lauriel felt her throat constrict and she could not bear to look at the other woman. After a long pause, she heard Anna say in a shaky voice, "I'm not sure, sweetie. We'll find him soon though, alright?"

"M-kay," the boy mumbled, before tucking his face back into the safety of Lauriel's neck. She could feel his unsteady breath and tears against her skin. How could a child recover from something like this? It had taken her years as a grown woman to process and accept being thrown into another world. Now, this little boy would face the same challenges.

They passed dozens of people in the hall. Most halted midstep and stared openly, not even trying to hide their fascination in Lauriel. She ignored them, though, already accustomed to such treatment. It was like her first day in Lothlórien all over again, except in reverse. Now, it was her own people who gaped and pointed. Ah, fate certainly had a sense of humor…

And she did not appreciate this joke one bit.

When they arrived to the conference room, both Lauriel and Anna froze. Seated at a large table was Admiral Harris, Jim, Scott, and a pair of strangers. The man and woman were dressed sharply in business attire and both stood up at their arrival.

"Ah, here they are!" The woman walked around the table and held out her hand. Her voice was full of excitement. "Michelle Gats. It's a pleasure to finally meet you both."

Anna and Lauriel shook her hand and waited. The woman continued speaking enthusiastically. "I'm here on behalf of the president. His schedule kept him from welcoming you back personally, but please know that he is extremely pleased with the mission, despite the tragedy."

"Tragedy?" Anna frowned but the pair ignored her.

"Ricky Lopez." The man also approached and shook their hands. "I'm the chief of operations for Operation Rabbit Hole. I'm here to debrief you. Please sit. I'm sure you're eager to get home and to your real lives again. I know I would be too if I had to live in an archaic place like that dimension."

They said nothing, purposely keeping their faces neutral at his words as they took their seats. Lauriel ignored the admiral who sat to her left and turned her body towards Anna. Her friend gratefully took the still-quiet boy back into her lap. Robert hiccupped slightly, his wide eyes taking in the new room. When they found Jim sitting across the table, the boy's little arms reached out. He reached for the familiar man and Jim winced, looking away ashamedly.

"No, Robert." Anna tried to hide the pain in her voice. "Not right now."

Thankfully, the boy didn't make a fuss and hid his face in his mother's shirt. Michelle sat down while Ricky remained standing. He walked around the table and placed thick envelopes before Anna and Lauriel. "I know that you already debriefed while in the other dimension, so I'll keep this quick. Inside you will find your updated documents and information.

"Major Miller, you will need to take new photographs for your identifications in three months when they expire. Your husband will be able to explain the state of your finances and affairs. Thankfully, he has done an excellent job of maintaining them while you were… ah, while you were away. Now, as you can understand, I had less than twenty-four hours to prepare for your son's arrival. We had no idea he would be joining us. As such, I was forced to guess his birthdate and make up certain details for his birth certificate. There is a list of immunizations he will need eventually for school. The shots he received today will keep him healthy in the meantime."

Ricky turned his attention to Lauriel. "Now, Major Harris, you are in quite an unusual situation. Your identifications were updated using photographs taken from your message to the rover, and we have adjusted your birthdate to well, suit your appearance. There are new debit and credit cards for your use, still connected to your original bank accounts. During your absence, your father maintained your affairs and accounts, but he insisted you have full autonomy upon your return so all authority has been transferred to you. Ah, let's see, what else? We have supplied you both with activated cell phones. Unfortunately, they are not the same numbers you had before but we thought this best for a fresh start. Any questions?"

"My belongings?" Lauriel asked. "Where is my car?"

"With your mother," the admiral replied. "She has them."

She did not look at him. Instead, she kept her eyes on Ricky and asked, "Is there anything else, sir?"

The man frowned, confused at such behavior between the father and daughter. Lauriel frowned back, wondering if the man had any idea of what had happened on the other side of the door. Surely they all knew what her father and the others had done? Twenty four hours would have been plenty of time to review the footage from the mission.

"As you two already know, this mission and everything that has occurred remains at a top secret classification. However, your immediate family members have been granted authorization to know about the door's technology. President Green knows personally how difficult this has been for them and he thought they deserved the truth. Beyond your spouses and parents, no one is to know. We will leave it up to you and your families to explain your situations. Take the next three months to get settled and acclimated. You will remain on active duty for the time being, but you will need to decide whether or not you will remain in the service."

"That's it?" Anna did not hide her suspicion. "We get to start our lives just like that?"

Michelle chuckled, "This rescue mission has been carefully planned and prepared for. Our psychologists recommended that you be returned to your families as soon as possible. They believe your recovery will be more successful within a familiar environment. After some time, we will contact you again for follow up information. Major Harris, you are in particular will be of vital use in the future."

"We discussed this already," Admiral Harris said in a warning tone. "My daughter is not going to become a science project."

"Of course not!" Michelle gasped. "Like any other citizen rescued from hostile lands, our priority is her health and safety. We are Americans, after all. We just hope that Major Harris will be willing to cooperate in future medical studies. But like I said, that will all come later. Right now, let's get you back to your families."

"Speaking of family," Anna said, staring at the admiral with cold eyes, "Where is Holdred?"

"Holdred?" Ricky also looked at the admiral, but in confusion. "Isn't that the biological father of this child? Your report stated he chose to remain in the other dimension, did it not?"

"What?!" Anna and Lauriel both demanded simultaneously.

Jim stood up abruptly. "Anna, not here."

She ignored him and stared at the admiral. "Where is he?"

"Not in front of Robert," Jim pleaded. "Please, trust me, I can explain everything when we get home-"

"Trust you? Seriously, trust you?" The redhead grabbed the envelope with her documents and carried her son out of the room. "Fuck off, Jim."

Lauriel quickly took hold of her own envelope and ran after the furious woman. She vaguely could hear the admiral apologizing and something about them having 'difficulty adjusting.'

"Where are we going?" she asked quietly when she caught up.

"The airport," Anna answered, gripping Robert tightly. "We need to get away from these people. I need to get Robert to my parents; they're the only people I can trust right now besides you. Then I'll come back and find out what happened to Holdred."

"Alright." Lauriel thought quickly. "I'll find my mom and then come back with you."

"We'll need to call a cab to pick us up."

Lauriel reached into her envelope and withdrew the cell phone. She stared at the technology, perplexed. It looked nothing like the phone she had previously owned. "Sure, once I figure out how to work this thing."

"Everything has changed," Anna murmured as they marched out a door and found themselves in the outside parking lot. It was night, and the tall parking lights illuminated the pavement well. Rows and rows of cars greeted them, along with a few men walking in their direction. The two stared, both momentarily lost in the sight of the strange, outside world.

Lauriel's eyes recognized one of the men walking. "B! Big B!"

The large man turned, surprised to see them. He waited as they quickly jogged over. He was dressed in casual slacks and a button up shirt, car keys jingling in one hand and a gym bag in the other. "What are you two doing out here? Aren't you both supposed be with Jim and-"

"We need to get to the airport," Lauriel interrupted him. "Please."

They must have looked frightened and desperate. Big B looked behind them, as if waiting for the others to show up, but then he looked at their expressions again and sighed. "Come on. I'll give you a ride."

His car was not far, and Anna placed Robert in the back. She calmed the tired boy with soothing words and told him to wait before shutting the door.

"Sorry," Big B said sheepishly. "I don't have any kids, so no car seat, but-"

"We need to go, but before we do," Anna said, reaching out and grabbing the man's arm, "please, please tell me what happened. Where is Holdred? What the hell happened?"

"W-What?" Big B's eyes widened and he gaped at them. "Wait. You don't know? They didn't tell you?"

"No one has told us anything," Lauriel breathed out, her eyes constantly scanning the building. She half expected guards to come out running to bring them back in. "Look, we don't want to scare Robert so just answer us this right now – where is Holdred?"

"He's…" Big B looked down. "He's dead. I'm sorry, Captain Rochester shot him during the struggle."

Anna fell backwards and Lauriel quickly caught the shocked woman. Her arms held her friend as she began to sob quietly. Lauriel's eyes narrowed. "Explain."

"They debriefed us," Big B said softly. "They just told us what happened."

"And what exactly did they claim happened?" Lauriel probed.

"They said the natives attacked once we were sent through. Intelligence seems to think it was their plan from the start. They waited until most of our forces left then made their move. Seemed like they wanted to keep you both in Middle-Earth and force the others to leave. Captain Rochester held them back while Scott, Jim, and the admiral got you three out. He didn't make it."

"The tragedy…" Lauriel said, remembering Michelle's words earlier. "Do you know what happened to him?"

"Yeah," Big B sighed, leaning against the car. "I'm sorry, I don't want to be blunt-"

"Just tell us," Anna whispered, standing upright again.

"Holdred attacked Captain Rochester," Big B rubbed his neck awkwardly, avoiding their eyes. "So the captain shot him. Poor guy never had a chance after that, though. Rochester got taken down by an arrow to the throat before he could make it to the door."

"Legolas," Lauriel said his name breathlessly.

"Yeah, I thought so too. They played the footage to show what happened, but the shooter was off screen. Look, I'm really sorry. I know you two thought they loved you-"

"It's all a lie," Anna snapped, breaking off his sentence. "All of it."

"W-What?"

"Get in the car. We'll explain on the way," Anna took a deep breath. "We just need to get as far away from this place as we can, right now. Lauriel, do you know your mom's address?"

To her horror, Lauriel realized that she did not. Quickly, she withdrew the papers inside the envelope and found her mother's information listed. "Yes."

"Then," the redhead took both their cell phones and threw them as far as she could. "Let's get the hell out of here."

"Anna…" Lauriel reached for her friend, but the woman shrugged away. "Are you alright?"

"Of course not." The woman shook her head. "I just found out Jim and my own government betrayed me, murdered my son's father, and now they expect me to just resume my old life like nothing ever happened. So no, I'm not alright, but I'm going to pretend like I am, and so are the two of you. Robert is already terrified as it is; the last thing he needs is to find out father was killed."

"Murdered…" Big B breathed, looking ready to run away. "What the hell is going on?"

Anna and Lauriel were already getting into the car. Lauriel opened the door violently, burning with the desire to destroy everything and everything, "Just get in the car and drive."

…

---

…

"Bastards."

"I know."

"How could they do that to you?"

"I know."

"I mean, seriously? To their own family? Shit! You're the admiral's daughter! What kind of man does that to his own daughter?"

"I know."

"Jim isn't any better. I mean, yeah, it sucks to find out that your wife is married again and has a kid, but that doesn't give him the right to tear their family apart!"

"I know."

Big B stopped his pacing and thrust an accusatory finger at her. "Is that all you can say? How can you just sit there? How can you be so damn calm?"

Lauriel tapped her fingers on the coffee lid. "What other choice do I have? Sure, I could sit here and fume and let them ruin my life, but that would be letting them win. I do not lose, ever. I'm a fighter, and so is Anna. We're going to fight this."

They both looked across the airport gate and at the restroom. Anna and Robert exited it and walked towards them. Robert looked awkward and nervous in his new clothing. He stayed close to his mother, keeping his eyes to the ground, and his free hand pulled at his T-shirt's collar.

"To anyone else, he looks like a tired little boy." Big B heaved a sigh and sat down next to Lauriel. "Poor kid. He's never going to have a normal life here."

"Thanks for doing this." Lauriel patted the man's shoulder. "You really didn't have to."

He smirked. "What else would I be doing? If I hadn't seen you two, I would have gone home to my empty apartment, popped open a beer or two, and played video games for a week, having no idea I just helped kidnap the Americans I thought I was helping. Ignorance is bliss, but it's not for me.

"I've been friends with Jim for a while now, and knowing him, he's going to follow Anna and beg for forgiveness. I'm not the one he backstabbed, but I still feel betrayed. Going home with her and making sure he doesn't bother them is the least I can do. I'm just sorry that I can't come help you too."

Lauriel shook her head. "You've never met my mother. She'll keep me safe."

"Hey," Big B's expression softened, "You feeling okay?"

She realized that her hand was pressed against her chest. "Oh," her hand fell away. "My chest feels a little strange, but worry not."

"Alright… There he is! My man!" Big B reached out and ruffled Robert's hair as the boy came close. "You look handsome in those clothes."

The boy said nothing and immediately crawled into Anna's lap when she sat down. Anna gave Big B an apologetic smile, but it was an empty smile. The skin under her eyes was puffy and raw from crying, and she appeared ready to lose her composure at any given moment. Still, she held herself together, and began to point out things to Robert, whispering names and explaining. For now, she and Robert were stuck in this world, and she would do her best to help her son adjust.

Lauriel stood up and finished her drink. The sugary creation was so strange on her tongue – she had nearly forgotten what a caramel mocha tasted like. She used to love them, but now, the artificial taste was just too much. "Well, my plane should be boarding soon. Call me when you land and when you get home, alright? You wrote down my mother's phone number, right?"

"We have it," Big B confirmed quietly.

They didn't hug or make a big scene. All three of the adults knew that this was not a final goodbye. This was not the end, but just the beginning. "Robert." Lauriel knelt and kissed the boy on the cheek. "You take care of your mother. Do you hear me?"

The boy did not react.

"Do you hear me?" Lauriel's tone took an authoritative tone.

Now, Robert looked at her and nodded bashfully. She grinned at him and stood once more. "Stay safe, all of you."

Anna waved weakly and Big B nodded grimly. Reluctantly, Lauriel turned away and threw her cup away in a passing trash can. As she walked down the airport's terminal, she checked to make sure her ear tips were covered. It felt strange to have nothing but an envelope so she stopped at one of the small shops and purchased a random assortment of items.

It felt so… so… alien to walk along the small aisles, picking up things she never thought she'd see again, things she had taken for granted. They were so ordinary here, but they did not even exist in Middle-Earth. Lauriel paused in the medicine aisle and stared at the small, travel-sized boxes of pills and liquids. There were fever reducers, pain alleviators, bandages, sleep aids, cough drops, numbing gel…

There was an entire row of shelves full of medicine that could not only help, but save the lives of people in Middle-Earth. This world held knowledge that could have helped her friends and family there. A path of peace, of cooperation had been possible…

Her eyes narrowed as she turned away and got in line to pay for her items.

Now, that path was lost.

…

---

…

Lauriel stared at the blue and white house. The lawn was well-kept, but empty of any frivolous flowers or decorations. It was simply a large grass lawn with a stone path leading to the simple, wooden front door that now beckoned her.

The sound of the taxi's engine faded as it disappeared around the corner and left Lauriel alone on the street. It was a quiet night, and except for the street lights, the neighborhood was dark. With only a few hours until dawn, everyone slept. The only house with windows filled with light was the blue and white one before her.

She stepped forward, her heart thudding wildly under her heavy chest. Her feet made little noise on the stone, but more than they should have. Lauriel didn't care, though, and walked until she stood in front the door. Nervously, she knocked and waited.

A few seconds later, the door opened, and a woman stood in the door frame. She was tall and thin, her black hair touched by the first signs of grey. She clutched the door tightly. "L-Lauren?" Her voice was so familiar, so unchanged.

"Mom!"

Her mother caught her easily, her warm arms wrapping around her torso. "Oh Lauren. It's you, it's really you."

After many tears, the two finally managed to make it to the living room. Mother and daughter sat together on a couch and held hands, staring at one another. Her mother had aged, but not as poorly as her father had. Still, Lauriel could see the toll of stress and time in her mother's face. She could feel the years of heartache in her anxious grasp.

"You look…" Her mother chuckled, at a loss for words.

"It's a long story."

"Whenever you're ready."

Lauriel smiled. "Thank you." Her smile faltered, though, when she asked, "W-Where is he?"

Her mother closed her eyes, looking much older than she actually was. "He's upstairs, behind the first door on your left. I'll make some hot chocolate. Do you still like marshmallows?"

"Could I have tea instead?" Lauriel grimaced slightly, remembering how strange the caramel mocha had tasted to her. "Just plain tea. No sugar."

"Sure." Her mother nodded and walked away.

For the first time, Lauriel examined her surroundings. The house was a mix of old and new. The couch was new; she had never seen it before. But the bookshelf was old. It had been in her parents' living room from before her birth, and she smiled at it. The photographs on its shelves drew her closer, and she muffled a sob. The sight of her family, relatives, and friends was too much.

How many times had she dreamed about these people? How many times had she recalled memories over and over again because she was terrified of forgetting what they looked like? Yet here they were, captured in perfect detail. Her fingers reached and brushed against the glass cover of a photograph of her and Anthony, arms wrapped around each other's shoulders, as they stood at the top of a mountain after a full day's hike.

She looked at the staircase and her fingers fell away from the photo. Slowly, she walked to the stairs and climbed up to the second level. She hesitated, but passed through the open doorway to the left. The lights were already on, illuminating the bedroom brightly. It was decorated nicely, and most of the items were recognizable. The posters on the wall had belonged to Anthony as a teenager, the case against the wall was filled with his trophies and medals, and the shelves were filled with his car magazines and models.

Her feet brought her to the edge of the bed, and she collapsed into the armchair placed there. Lauriel stared at the man who lay silent and still in the bed, covered by a sheet, attached to a humming machine. His jaw was covered by the beginnings of a beard, and his eyes remained shut peacefully. She brushed her hand against his cheek, waiting for any sign or movement, but none came. Dismayed, Lauriel leaned back and studied her brother. He was a handsome man in his thirties and she smiled sadly… She really did look like him now.

She heard her mother walk up the stairs and enter the room not long after.

"He looks so peaceful."

Her mom offered her the mug of tea and sat on the edge of the bed. Affectionately, she placed on hand on Lauriel's knee and the other on Anthony's leg. Finally, her mother had both of her children again. "He has his good days and some bad ones."

"I-Is he in pain?"

"The doctors don't think so. Still, the body wasn't meant to lay in one place. We have to keep fighting off infections and seizures occasionally."

They sat together, both watching Anthony and lost in thought. Eventually, her mother squeezed her knee and whispered, "Something is wrong, isn't it? I could tell when your father called. Honey, what happened?"

Lauriel took a sip of her tea and looked at her mother, eyes filling with tears. "It's a long story and not a happy one."

"Anthony and I have all the time in the world." Her mother leaned forward and placed a kiss on her forehead.

…

---

…

People walked hurriedly by, too engrossed in their phones, holographic messages, friends, and family to notice her watching. In their arms were bags, brightly colored with iconic brand names. They were dressed sharply with high collars, dramatically flared sleeves, crisp pants, or dresses cut in boxlike patterns. Fashion had changed over the last decade and Lauriel struggled to comprehend it.

She struggled to comprehend many things.

The shopping center was crowded, but that was to be expected for a Saturday. With the fair, warm weather, even more people had been drawn to the outdoor shopping center though. None of them paused or cared to appreciate the world around them. None of them looked up at the sky, embracing the heat of the sun or watch the miraculous planes pass overhead. None of them seemed to appreciate or notice the stunning and wistful architecture of the shopping center –obviously recently built or remodeled.

There were pieces of art in the forms of statue, paintings, and murals set throughout, paired with a splendid array of plants and flowers. So much effort had been put into this shopping center, a center for the community, but no one seemed to even notice it. They were far too distracted by the holographic advertisements and commercials, large and obviously meant to be the center of attention.

Lauriel frowned at a commercial for cosmetic surgery, showcasing a young woman twirling in a bikini, showing off her new set of breasts. She snorted, turning away, and stared at a statue of a man and woman reaching for one another instead. The man was handsome, despite the pained expression carved onto his face, and his eyes seemed to glow bright blue–

Lauriel blinked and the color vanished. She was left to stare at the empty, cold marble eyes of a statue man. He was not Legolas. No, Legolas did not exist in this world. The harsh reality hit Lauriel with renewed vigor, and she bent over on the bench, clutching at her hurting chest. The pain was not emotional, it was physical and grew with each day. The past few days had brought so much pain that Lauriel knew something was terribly wrong. Lovesickness did not feel like this…

"Are you okay?"

Lauriel saw a pair of leather shoes shift uncertainly on the ground before her. Sitting straight up again, she found a young man standing there, looking awkwardly at her. He was in late twenties and like others, wore a brightly colored purple shirt with a high, dramatic collar.

When she revealed her face to him, a red blush spread over his features and he took a step back. "Sorry, you looked like you were in pain-"

"I'm well." She gave him a small smile. "Thank you for asking. A stranger's kindness is always much appreciated."

"Uh, yeah. Sure." He stared at her for another moment, then hastily strode away. Lauriel watched him go and sighed heavily. She wore plain clothes, ones that actually fit now thanks to recent shopping with her mother, and hid her ears under a baseball cap. The fake glasses had been her mother's idea, and their thick frames drew less attention to her bright golden eyes. Still, people noticed Lauriel. Like the man who now fled from her bench, she unnerved them. They had no way of guessing that she was a magical being that had no place in this realm, but they knew something was different.

"Sorry to keep you waiting, honey, but the line was long, and– Lauriel? What's the matter?"

Turning, Lauriel found her mother frowning at her, holding a few new shopping bags. As any good mother, she recognized at once that something was distressing her daughter. Immediately, the older woman took a seat, simply saying, "Tell me."

Reaching out, Lauriel cupped her mother's cheek with a hand. "Te amo, mamá." (I love you, mom)

"And I love you, mija. (daughter)" Her mother gently moved Lauriel's hand to her lap. "Are you still feeling ill? I told you, we can come back another time when you're feeling better."

"Mamá, I do not think I will be getting better."

Silence fell over the pair, but the noisy shopping center continued without pause, oblivious to the monumental statement.

Yessenia Sánchez was a strong woman, stronger than anyone could have possible imagined. She had been born into a hardworking immigrant family, joined the military as soon as legally possible, established herself as a successful officer, married a SEAL who spent more time deployed than at home, and raised two warriors as children. She was a powerful mother and wife, part of a formidable family that had successfully survived a world war.

What their family had not survived, however, was the past ten years. First, Lauren had vanished without a trace. For months, Yessenia received nothing but lies from her grieving husband. Kevin had always kept secrets from her – it was the price the wife of an admiral paid – but he had never dared keep secrets regarding their children. That was how their marriage had survived the impossible – before all else, Kevin and Yessenia had been partners and parents. Family came first.

But that had changed when Lauren had disappeared. They had told her that there had been an accident of sorts, but no one, not even Kevin, would tell her if Lauren was dead or alive. Kevin had come up with excuses, so many terrible and horrible excuses. The worst, though, had been the promises to get her back. Back from where? From who? So their daughter had still been alive?

Nothing. Her husband had told her nothing.

Anthony, too, had been unable to find anything regarding the mysterious accident. He had spoken to various contacts and had gone behind his father's back, but still had found nothing. Together, Anthony and Yessenia had pleaded with Kevin Harris to tell them what had happened.

It had taken an unimaginable strength to leave behind the life that she had worked so hard to build. With a dishonest husband, a missing daughter, and a son who was constantly deployed on dangerous missions, Yessenia had packed one night and had left to go her sister's home. Enough had been enough.

It had taken the admiral two whole days to realize his wife was gone. He had spent more days in Washington DC and at Blue Lite than at home, a man obsessed with ensuring the success of Operation Rabbit Hole. When he finally had come home, he discovered his wife gone and his son refusing to speak to him. Days of unanswered phone calls and slammed doors had turned into weeks, which became months, which eventually turned into years.

Then, Admiral Kevin Harris had been forced to retire due to years of service. Without a wife, a daughter, or son at home, the man had nothing left but Operation Rabbit Hole. Thankfully, Green had won the election and ensured Kevin had still been in charge of the operation, his military title replaced by a civilian one. There had been no one better suited for the job – no one more driven and desperate to see its success than the retired and lonely admiral.

To Yessenia, though, it had appeared that the man was just as obsessed and secretive in retirement than he had been in active duty. Not even the breaking of his marriage and family had seemed to wake up the man. He had called and written to her constantly, making vague and ambiguous promises that he was going to find Lauren. He had promised Yessenia that he would fix everything.

Any hope Yessenia still had in her lost husband shattered the day Anthony's torn up body was flown back to the States. She remembered that day clearly. It was a day that would haunt her for the rest of her life. Yessenia had walked into the hospital room, taken one look at her broken son, then marched up to Kevin and slammed her fist into his face.

She had been strong in those days, holding onto her son's hand as he survived multiple surgeries. She'd been strong during the long and cruel court battle to keep the life-support machine on, despite Anthony and Kevin's wishes to let him pass peacefully. She had been strong when they finally brought her son into her new home. Her strongest moment, though, had been when she filed the divorce papers.

Yessenia Sánchez, formally Yessenia Harris, now sat in the middle of a loud and crowded shopping center, looking at the daughter once lost to her. She saw fear, pain, and dark knowledge in those strange golden eyes. But she saw the courage and power in them too. Her eyes moved over the strange but familiar face of the elleth, taking in the smooth skin, dainty nose, high cheekbones, and full lips.

This did not look like the daughter she had grieved for so many years – this was another person altogether. Yet it was still her. No matter how Lauren had changed into this new creature, this Lauriel, Yessenia only saw her daughter, who needed her mother, sitting before her.

So, Yessenia did her best to be strong as her world was once again destroyed when Lauriel said, "Mamá, I am fading."

…

---

…

The drill had gone well, and the men had completed the task with ten seconds to spare. They stood at attention, waiting for the admiral's feedback.

He stood with his arms crossed, a determined but impressed expression on his face as he scanned their faces. He was pleased with their performance, very pleased. Then again, he expected nothing less from the team he had handpicked. Each one of these men were formidable warriors, having remarkable service records. Even though they'd come back from a week of leave, they were as sharp as ever.

One whole week.

The admiral's lips pulled back into a hard line. One week without any word from Lauren or Yessenia. He knew that his daughter was furious and hurt; he'd known it would be the price to pay for his actions, but he'd thought that Yessenia would have at least said something to him. After all, he had finally fulfilled his promise. He'd gotten their daughter back.

The beginning of his ruined life had begun because of his mistake: he had failed to protect Lauren. Instead of keeping her safe, he'd chosen to grab onto Green instead and watched his own flesh and blood be swallowed up into the abyss. Her disappearance into the door marked the beginning of a downward spiral that had quickly spun out of control.

Yessenia had blamed him for losing Lauren. She had thought their daughter was dead, and there had been no way of telling her the truth. No one, not even him, could talk about the door.

Anthony had thrown himself into his work to avoid the grief and speaking to his father. He volunteered for more missions than ever before. Kevin hadn't stopped him, not when he had been doing the exact same thing. The responsibility to fix his mistake fell on Kevin alone and that had meant making Operation Rabbit Hole a reality, not just an idea.

He regretted hurting Yessenia when she had so desperately needed him at home, but there'd been the long-term benefits to consider. As long as he could get Lauren back, the pain and sacrifices were worth it.

Everything had changed when Anthony's mission had gone wrong, and his son was fated to live as nothing more than an empty shell. That had been when Kevin truly lost his wife. With nothing left to lose, Operation Rabbit Hole had become his sole purpose in life. Everything, absolutely everything, had depended on the success of this mission. His only chance in redemption lay in bringing their daughter back to Yessenia.

And against all odds, he'd done it. So why did Yessenia refuse to see him? Why did she continue to push him away? Did she not understand that they could be a family again? It was not the life they planned, certainly not with Anthony's condition, or Lauren's new appearance, but they could at last be reunited… It was the one thing that had kept him moving forward for a decade, and now, he clung to it desperately.

Realizing he still had not spoken, Admiral Harris cleared his throat. "Well done. That was your best time yet. After lunch, report to the range for firearms training. Dismissed."

He watched his men disperse, feeling an overwhelming sense of gratitude and appreciation for them. They had risked their lives for this operation, and in a sense, had risked everything for him personally. This had been his operation, his redemption, and they had helped him succeed.

Scott cautiously approached the brooding admiral. "So, have you heard anything?"

"No," Kevin answered sternly, "Nothing. When I called Yessenia and asked if I could visit, she hung up the phone."

When the younger officer said nothing, Kevin frowned. "You've got something to say, Scott?"

Scott eyed the admiral warily. He had refrained from speaking his mind this past week, mostly because he'd needed the time to process what the hell had happened those last few minutes in Middle-Earth. It all had happened so fast and he still struggled to understand its implications.

However, his shame and guilt were undeniable. He still did not fully comprehend what had happened or why, but he knew that it'd been wrong. Jim had told him everything. The truth horrified him, and worst of all was the sense of betrayal by the admiral, a man he'd grown to admire and care for. He had been wrong to trust Kevin Harris' orders and motives, and as a result, he had betrayed her, the person he truly cared about above all others.

"I…" Scott stood straighter, knowing this was not a time to show weakness. "I think we need to apologize."

"Excuse me?"

"You told her that we were bringing them all back. You lied to Lauriel and you lied to me. If I had known, I would have never–"

"Her name is Lauren." Kevin stepped forward angrily. "And do not question my reasons. I was protecting her!"

"How is kidnapping her from her husband 'protecting' her?" Scott felt his own temper rise. He glanced around, but they were alone now. Still, he lowered his voice and said urgently, "That was not our decision to make. It was hers and she was willing to come with Legolas. Why didn't you just let them all come back?"

"He doesn't belong here." Kevin shook his head, now feeling more tired than angry. "Listen, son, even if we'd brought him back, what do you think would've happened? You saw the way they reacted to Lauren. If she wasn't my daughter, they would have kept her here for study. I couldn't have stopped them from making Legolas their next science experiment, he's not a citizen or under my protection. Holdred too, probably, even if he wasn't an elf. They weren't going to let people from another dimension just waltz into our world. The only reason they left Robert alone was because he was a child, at least for the time being."

"She wouldn't have left him," Scott said in realization. "If they tried to keep Legolas here, she would've stayed with him or fought back."

"I understand what it is to be in love… I'll bear the burden of separating Lauren and him, but it is a small price to pay if it means having her home and safe. She already fought in one war, she has no place in another."

Scott did not miss the strain in the man's voice. Now that he took a closer look, he could see the dark bags under Kevin's eyes, the heavy shoulders, and marks of stress on his face. It was obvious that he was not the only one feeling guilty from what had happened. Still…

The door to the training room opened with a hydraulic hiss. Michelle Gats strode in, her heels clicking loudly against the hard floor, and she greeted them with her usual smile. Both men knew that appearances were deceiving, especially with this woman.

"Ma'am." Scott still nodded his head respectfully and moved to leave the room. He stopped though when she held up a hand.

"I'm here to speak to you both," she announced. "I just got off the phone with the president and he has given the order to proceed with phase two."

"Already?" Scott couldn't hide his shock.

"The men just returned from leave, I recommend waiting until they train some more–" Kevin began to say, not comfortable with the news.

"Normally, I think the President would agree with you, but after the results from the samples you gathered came through he is…" Michelle's smile widened and her eyes flashed, "…eager to proceed."

Scott rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "Results?"

"You really ought to pay more attention to the scientific side of this operation, LCDR Acker. The lab has finished analyzing the last of the samples. We are pleased to find that this other dimension has enormous potential for resource collection. We found traces of rhenium and palladium in the samples. Can you believe it? Not to mention the sheer size of unused land there – the botanists are ecstatic at the health of their soil, and the biological samples are already giving us breakthroughs regarding other species–"

Michelle broke off, as if thinking it wiser not to mention these results to this particular audience. She stood a little straighter. "The president wants phase two executed immediately. Prepare your team."

"Yes, ma'am," Admiral Harris' tone was cold.

"As soon as you have an estimated time frame, please let me know so I can inform him." She turned crisply and exited, the door hissing shut behind her.

"What the hell did all that mean?" Scott muttered. "So what if their soil is healthy? Why are we rushing phase two?"

Kevin Harris wearily ran a calloused hand through his short hair. "It means that the time for peace is almost over."

He passed along the order to ready the men for their second mission to Scott who nodded silently and left, a dark shadowing crossing his face. Left alone at last, Kevin Harris finally released his shoulders and rubbed his temples. He did not like the implications behind Michelle's words, especially about biological samples. No doubt they had studied Lauren's samples endlessly. With her immortality and enhanced physical traits, she was a desirable specimen. He could only hope that the corpses of the Uruk-Hai would keep the scientists' interests satisfied.

In need of a break, Kevin retrieved his car keys from the locker room and went to his parked car outside. With the strict security regulations, no personal technology was permitted within the buildings. So, he kept his phone in the car and checked it for messages.

At his touch, the screen lit up and projected its hologram. A blinking light indicated a missed call, and his heart thudded wildly when he saw Yessenia's name flashing. Finally! He called back and waited until the hologram indicated a connection.

"Yessenia," he breathed out heavily in relief. "How are you? How is Lauren? I'm sorry I missed your call, but–"

"You cruel, idiotic, lying piece of shit!"

Kevin Harris had been called worse, in more languages than he cared to count, but never had he heard such a harsh tone from Yessenia. He stiffened. "W-What?"

"Just when I thought you couldn't do anything worse than kill our children, you do this!" she spat, every word dripping with hatred and fury. "First, you lose our daughter. Then you send our son into a suicide mission. Wasn't it enough for you? Why did you have to kill her again?!"

"I…" He felt terror clench his heart. "I don't… understand."

"She's dying, Kevin."

"No…"

"She isn't a part of this world anymore. Her body needs magic, and this world has none. Her soul is connected to Legolas, and you cut that bond the instant you pulled her through the door. She's dying, Kevin," Yessenia repeated. "Our daughter is going to die, and it's your fucking fault."

"Impossible–"

"She told you. You knew they were bound and you still betrayed her," Yessenia's voice cracked, her rage turning into sorrow. "You were so blinded by your obsession to bring her back that you failed to realize the costs of your actions."

"But…" Kevin Harris was at a loss of words. "You needed her. Our family needed her."

"What I need," Yessenia whispered, "is a husband who loves and supports his family, not controls them. She was happy there, Kevin. I don't care if I never had seen her again. Just to know she was alive and happy would have been enough. And now, it's too late."

"Yessenia–"

"Goodbye, Kevin."

The hologram dimmed as the connection ended. Kevin Harris leaned back in his seat and closed his eyes, fighting the urge to cry, scream, shout, laugh, and explode. It was utterly ironic that his quest for redemption had only accomplished the opposite. His baby girl was dying, and he had no one to blame but himself. Worse, the world where her body and soul could live in, faced a violent and dark future thanks to his operation. His success threatened to destroy everything, not save it.

Admiral Kevin Harris had fought through and survived World War III. It was not in his nature to cower or give up, especially when it came to his family. So, Kevin shut off the phone, crossed his arms, and began to formulate a plan.

This time, he would get things right.

…

---

…

The book slipped from her fingers and fell harmlessly onto the carpet. Lauriel stared at it in surprise, then at her trembling hands. The symptoms were worsening, and she wondered how much worse it would get before the end came.

Her mother sat up quickly from her own chair and picked up the book. "Here," she murmured, returning the book to Lauriel's hands. Then she went back to her desk and resumed her work.

Sighing, Lauriel reopened the pages, but found her desire for reading gone. So, she placed the book aside and stared out the window, trying to feel the presence of the large tree in the yard. She reached out, trying to grasp for any sign of life, but she felt nothing. Her connection to the earth and natural world did not exist here. It was as if a part of her had simply vanished, leaving an empty ache in her chest. There was no magic to fill it. Worse, there was no warmth of Legolas to make her whole again. She was incomplete and the emptiness continued to spread.

Two days had passed since their trip to the shopping center. Since then, Lauriel and her mother resumed their routine. What else was there to do? Lauriel grew more tired by the day and there was nowhere else she wanted to be than here, with Anthony and her mother. Still, no matter how much she wished to stay with them until the end, she knew the time to leave was approaching. If she was going to die, she meant for her death to serve a purpose.

She heard a car coming down the street and waited for it to pass by, but Lauriel frowned when a dark vehicle slowed and parked in front of the house. Her eyes felt strained to see past the tinted windows, but she managed to see a familiar face.

"They're here," she declared. "Mamá, they've come."

Yessenia stood, abandoning her work and went to stand by the window. Lauriel remained on the couch but both watched as Michelle Gats and two large men in black suits exited the vehicle and walked up the stone path to the front door.

"Are you absolutely sure this is what you want to do?"

Lauriel smiled sadly. "Yes."

Yessenia examined her daughter and then nodded slowly. "Alright. Let's do this."

The doorbell rung and Yessenia answered it. She played the role of the surprised but friendly hostess well, and brought their guests to the living room. Lauriel sat confidently, hiding the terrible ache in her chest, and waited until they were close to stand.

"Ah, Ms. Gats." Lauriel stood and offered her hand. "What a nice surprise."

Michelle beamed and they shook hands. "It's so good to see you, Major Harris. Have you been enjoying your time with your family?"

"Very much so. Who are your friends?"

"Ah." Michelle waved her associates off. "Don't mind them. As Chief of Staff for President Green, I unfortunately require a security detail when I travel alone."

"Can I get you all anything to drink?" Yessenia offered kindly.

"Some tea would be greatly appreciated, if you don't mind," Michelle answered, and took a seat.

"Of course not." Her mother disappeared into the kitchen.

With the other woman gone, Michelle's friendly smile diminished somewhat as she leaned forward. "You know what I like about you, Major Harris? You're a straightforward woman, like me. So let's not waste each other's time. I know about your… condition."

"Condition?" Lauriel tilted her head, feigning confusion.

Now, Michelle's smile vanished altogether. Her forehead furrowed as she clarified, "We are well aware that you are dying. Really, your parents should've known better than to use civilian communications to discuss classified information."

"So you're keeping surveillance on us," Lauriel did nothing to hide her amusement. "So much for respecting our civil rights. Something tells me, though, you don't care too much about them.."

Michelle glanced in the direction of the kitchen. "That door changed everything, Major Harris. You are no longer just an American – some may argue that you're not even human. We gave you time with your family and did not force you to… cooperate with our studies, but given your shortened timeline, the situation has changed."

"What do you want?"

"See, straightforward. I knew we'd understand each other." Michelle said as she sat back, "We want you, Major Harris. Before you die, we want to study you. You are the Holy Grail of scientific research. Your samples show promising leads. Just think, you could make a real difference before you pass! You could hold the key to medical advancements and maybe even immortality."

"If you were listening to my parents, you would realize that none of it matters. There is no magic in this world. Without magic, there is no immortality."

"Ah, yes." Michelle shrugged. "That won't be a problem for longer."

Lauriel did not have to fake her shock. "What do you mean?"

"A question for another time. Now, what do you say, Major? Will you come back to Blue Lite and let your death make a difference?"

After a pause, Lauriel asked, "And if I say no?"

Michelle sighed dramatically. "Your brother's healthcare is paid for by the military. It would be such a shame if payments were… frozen."

Lauriel's eyes narrowed. "You are willing to kill my brother, a man who gave his life to our country, to blackmail me?"

Michelle ignored the statement. "You are important. More than you can even imagine."

They stared at one another and heard the clanking of a tea set from the kitchen. Quickly Lauriel said, "I will go with you, but on one condition."

"You are in no position to negotiate."

"And there's no need for you to be a totally heartless bitch," Lauriel shot back. "I have waited over ten years to see my family, so I think you will find my condition reasonable."

Michelle waited, her eyes flashing dangerously.

"I will go peacefully with you to Blue Lite and cooperate, but my mother and brother will come with us. I want to spend my last days with them, and I want your guarantee that Anthony's funding will continue until he dies naturally."

Footsteps approached from the kitchen and Michelle hesitated, but then nodded. "I will make the arrangements."

"Sorry for the delay," Yessenia announced as she carried in a tray. "The kettle was feeling rebellious."

"Ah, I'm so sorry for your trouble," Michelle stood with an apologetic expression. "But my business is finished here. Thank you for your hospitality."

"So soon?" Yessenia frowned, looking between Lauren and their guest.

"When should we expect you?" Lauriel stood, her head held proudly.

"I'll have a car sent tomorrow." Michelle and her two companions saw themselves out.

Lauriel and her mother went to the window, standing side by side in silence until the car drove out of view. Yessenia chuckled, "Well, that was fairly easy."

"I am rather impressed with their response time to your phone call," Lauriel agreed. "We must be high on the surveillance priority list."

"What did she say when you threatened not to go?" Yessenia asked.

"They used Anthony as leverage."

Yessenia let out a string of curses in Spanish.

Lauriel chuckled, kissing her mother's cheek. "Do not worry yourself, Mamá. We'll make sure they are punished."

"How will you destroy the door if they are experimenting on you?"

"I don't know yet, but I must try." Lauriel wrapped her arms around her mother tightly. "I still don't think you should come. If they catch you–"

"They'll throw me in jail." Yessenia kissed her daughter's dark hair. "So what? These people destroyed my family. They destroyed my world, and I'm not going to let them destroy another one. We are born fighters, and we protect people – we always have and always will."

"I love you, Mamá."

"I love you too, mija."

…

---

…

Blue Lite was abuzz with activity. Lauriel walked behind their escort, eyes sweeping through the labs and rooms they passed. No matter what department, staff members ran frantically, trying to get work done as quickly as possible. Her mother walked ahead of her, helping push the rolling cot that carried Anthony and his equipment, but she too watched the staff with curious eyes.

"What's all the excitement about?" Lauriel finally asked, keeping her tone casual. The people who had greeted them at Blue Lite and now escorted them to their new living quarters were strangers and she hoped they would be more willing to offer information than Michelle Gats.

"Preparations," one of the men answered gruffly.

"For what?"

"The beginning of phase three."

"What does that mean?"

No one answered. There were limits to how much they were allowed to share, it seemed. No matter – Lauriel would find out eventually. "Where is my father?" she asked.

"On a mission."

She raised an eyebrow. "I suppose he's executing this phase three?"

"He's finishing up phase two."

"What is phase two?"

Again, no answer. So, her father and his team weren't here. Did that mean they were on the other side of the door? Lauriel's heart quickened, energized by the idea of being in Middle-Earth again. Her happiness deflated though when she wondered what the mission's purpose was.

Two spacious offices had been converted into living quarters. It looked like a large hotel room with a kitchenette, and Lauriel instantly hated it. It was so cold in here, not at all feeling like a home. Still, she was grateful to see three beds spaced out.

With the help of their escort, Lauriel and her mother carefully transferred Anthony over to one. His body felt sickly and thin beneath her touch and Lauriel wanted to scream. Her efforts to heal him with magic had completely failed. Even if she had possessed any magic within her, she doubted her meager abilities would have made a difference. His injuries went beyond the skills of any average healer, even her own world's medical knowledge could not fix his brain. With Anthony set on his bed, Lauriel and her mother's belongs were deposited and their escort left.

"It's freezing in here!" Her mother shivered and searched for a temperature control. She found it on the wall, activating its hologram control panel. She adjusted the temperature and then chuckled, "I forget, you don't feel the cold."

Lauriel sat down on the bed and looked at her arms. The bruises from the shots and needles in her medical screening here almost gone – they had healed at an alarmingly slow pace – and her arms were covered in goosebumps. She could feel the cold.

It did not take them long to retrieve her. Giving her mother an encouraging nod, Lauriel followed a man in a white coat until she found herself in an office.

"Ah, Major Harris." Dr. Claire Ryder smiled as she took off her glasses, setting them onto her desk. "Welcome back."

Lauriel merely stared, waiting. The doctor was unfazed by her refusal and offered a piece of paper. "This is your schedule. We'll adjust it as needed, but you'll find that we have set aside time for you to spend with your family and eat meals together."

"Well, aren't you a kind jailer?"

Dr. Ryder's grin didn't falter. "You are not a prisoner, Lauren. May I call you Lauren?" She did not wait for an answer. "We want you to be happy here. The more comfortable you are, the smoother our studies will go."

"You have little need to worry. Ms. Gates has already found proper motivation for me to cooperate."

"Yes, I am aware and it saddens me that it took drastic measures for you to be here. Just know that what we do here together will revolutionize our world."

When Lauriel showed no sign of returning her enthusiasm, Dr. Ryder sighed and put her glasses back on. "Now, follow me. It's time for your first test."

And so it began. They placed transmitters and sensors all over her body. They made her run on a treadmill until her legs gave out, measuring her body's reaction and endurance. She was dunked repeatedly underwater, forced to hold her breath until her lungs screamed for air. They stuck her with needles in the most painful spots of her body – testing her pain tolerance. They cut her with small knives with varying deepness, assessing how quickly her body stopped the bleeding and began to heal. They cut pieces of her hair off, scraped off skin, took more blood samples, extracted bone marrow, and x-rayed every inch of her body… The list was endless.

There were more doctors than she could keep track, but the most prominent of all was Dr. Ryder. The woman seemed to be in charge of this project and constantly entered the rooms, always writing on a clipboard with an eager smile. She did not flinch when Lauriel screamed in anguish, she did not order them to stop when Lauriel passed out from the loss of blood, and she had no mercy for Lauriel when she begged them to stop as they sent shocks through her body to measure the ability to conduct electricity.

It was a total and complete hell.

Each day got worse as her health deteriorated. She struggled to complete the tasks assigned and her body took longer to recover. She heard the scientists' whispers, saw the frowns on their faces, and could feel their disappointment. Her life was dwindling away, and they all knew it. Their prized specimen would soon be dead.

It was not death that frightened Lauriel, but failure. She spent her meal times eating and sleeping, trying to regain whatever strength she could. Her mother was always there, trying to ease the pain and offer words of encouragement.

When they took Lauriel away for more tests, Yessenia meandered through Blue Lite, gathering intelligence. She found out the names of staff, their clearance levels, the security rotation schedule, where the security cameras were located, and whatever else she could discover. No one paid her much attention, disregarding her as a threat. After all, she was just the mother who was bored of living inside one room and took walks to escape. If anything, they pitied and avoided her. One of her children lay comatose and the other dying on an observation table.

Then, at the end of the day when everyone but the night shift went home, Yessenia and Lauriel would take long walks together and discuss their plans. It was painfully obvious that neither had any idea how to truly destroy the door.

The security around its room was impressive. They would need to use one of highest clearance identity cards to open the hydraulic doors, which were always watched by the security team via infrared cameras attached to the ceiling. Even if they somehow did get inside, what then? They would need some sort of explosive to destroy the massive door. Lauriel wanted to steal one of the prototypes they'd used at Helm's Deep, but they had no way of knowing where such weapons were stored. Even if they did manage to attain the weapon and access the door, would it make a difference? Just because they destroyed the machine did not meant they destroyed the technology. The engineering schemes and blueprints were surely stored digitally somewhere…

Failure was almost guaranteed, and Lauriel felt her hope slowly slip away.

…

---

…

Kevin Harris breathed a sigh of relief as the warm buzz of the door overwhelmed his senses. It only lasted a second, and then he was through, safely within the walls of Blue Lite. The medics rushed forward and began their inspections. There was no need for a quarantine this time, their last mission had proven Middle-Earth safe for travel.

"Well, where is he?" The irritated voice of Michelle Gats ruined his moment of peace. She stared at him expectedly, dressed in a fashionable blazer and skirt, looking very out of a place in the lab, as she was surrounded by dirty and tired soldiers.

"Coming," he grunted.

"You're late," she accused, tapping her watch for emphasis. "Your extraction should have been days ago–"

"There were… complications."

Her eyebrows rose, but before she could demand an explanation, the last of the group passed through the door. Scott and Big B were visible first and they hunched over as they slowly dragged a groaning body through the door and onto the Blue Lite floor. The medics and Blue Lite staff watched in fascination as the body rolled over, revealing the sickly face of a hairy dwarf.

"What…" Mac grumbled, slurring his words. "Where am I…"

"I-Is he drunk?"

"He refused to come willingly, and we found drinking to be a better alternative to our sedatives."

"Drinking?!"

"It's a dwarf thing."

"Ridiculous," Michelle sighed, shaking her head. She immediately held a phone to her ear, and after a moment's pause, said, "Mr. President, we got him."

After the medical staff cleared him, Kevin Harris moved towards the locker room for a shower. Michelle had announced Green would be arriving within the hour, and the admiral had no intention of smelling like that damn mountain when the president shook his hand. Appearances needed to be maintained, at least until the moment was right.

He showered and changed quickly. The mandatory debrief would be starting soon and he was responsible for reporting the events of the mission. The door to the locker room opened and he took a step forward–

Someone blocked his way, and Kevin raised an eyebrow. "Dr. Williams, what can I do for you?"

The scientist's hair was the color of snow and in dire need of a cut. It stuck out in random directions, and combined with the ancient glasses that sat on the elderly man's nose, Dr. Williams played the part of mad scientist well. His nature, however, was that of a gentle and curious man who only wanted to help advance the world of man.

This goal had brought him to Blue Lite almost three decades ago, and while he had been searching for an environmentally friendly energy source, Dr. Williams had discovered inter-dimension travel. He was alone in this breakthrough, and had demanded he maintain his sole authority over the project. For years, Kevin Harris had resented the scientist. Although no one could have foreseen the accident, he still held Dr. Williams partly responsible for what had happened to Lauren.

His anger had faded though when Dr. Williams had fought vigorously for Operation Rabbit Hole, threatening to leave Blue Lite and take his genius elsewhere. The loss of such a brilliant asset was one the government would not tolerate. His threat had been the final push to get the necessary funding for Rabbit Hole. In a way, Dr. Williams had also been responsible for also getting Lauren back.

"You need to see something," the shorter and older man murmured.

Without further explanation, the doctor turned and walked away. Kevin frowned, but followed obediently. They soon left the lab that housed the door and its support systems, traveling to an entirely different wing of Blue Lite. It was an area Kevin hardly ever visited, having no connections to the projects housed in that part of the facility.

Dr. Williams came to an abrupt stop and pointed through a large, tinted observation window. "Look."

Kevin Harris was tired and the last thing he wanted to do was stare at a new science project. He had important things to do before Green arrived and–

His body went rigid.

Laying flat on an observation table, wearing nothing but a flimsy medical gown, was his daughter. Her eyes were rolled back, showing only white orbs, as her body shook violently. Three scientists held her down while a fourth continued to manipulate a machine, announcing the changing level of voltage sent through her body. Standing a short distance away was Dr. Claire Ryder, who busily wrote notes on her clipboard.

"What…" His vision turned red with fury and he grabbed Williams, his fist clenching the collar of the white lab coat. "What is the meaning of this?"

"There are consequences to our actions, Admiral, and she is just the beginning." Dr. Williams' voice shook with emotion and he glanced through the window, shame darkening his features. "We thought we could protect them, but this is beyond our control now."

Before he could even think, Kevin Harris was running into the lab. Retirement had done nothing to slow down the man, who easily threw aside the scientists before slamming into the machine, his shoulder screaming in pain as it knocked over the metal contraption. Chords flew and disconnected, and Lauriel's body went slack at the lack of stimuli.

"Stop this at once!" Dr. Ryder was shouting for security. She took a step forward but froze when the admiral's stormy eyes met her own. She clutched her clipboard in fear and gaped, unable to do anything as the muscular and intimidating man scooped his unconscious daughter into his arms and carried her away from her tormentors.

He jogged back to the main wing where the door was located. He knew it was only a matter of time until security caught up with him, and Kevin Harris needed allies. Dr. Williams struggled to keep up with him, the elderly man huffing and breathing loudly as he trailed along. The scientist would not be much of a help in a fight. He needed to find Scott and men he trusted.

The alarms had been triggered now, and the hallways were illuminated with flashing red and orange lights. People trickled out and followed the evacuation procedure. It helped him blend into the masses but Kevin could hear angry shouting from behind him and people stared at the limp body in his arms. He needed help, and fast.

"Kevin!"

He looked forward to see Yessenia shoving her way through the crowd and towards them. Right behind were the large and stern Scott, Jim, and Big B. He glanced over his shoulder to see four security guards also forcing their way towards him. Both groups reached him at approximately the same time and he rapidly maneuvered to place himself behind Scott and the other men. Not one to watch, Yessenia also threw her body in between him and the security team. She was a fierce sight and the security team halted, lowering their weapons uncertainly.

He and his allies were unarmed. Before medical screenings, his team had returned their weapons for analyzation and inventory control.

"Release the…" One of the guards faltered, unsure of what to call the elleth.

"Release my daughter?" The admiral straightened and stood proudly, feeling the weight of his silver stars at his collar. These guards were military and they knew exactly who he was. To them, those stars had meaning. "I order you stand down."

"Sir." Another guard cleared his throat, but he did lower his weapon somewhat. "We are on special assignment to Dr. Claire Ryder. I'm sorry sir, but we take our orders from her."

This time, Scott spoke up and he stepped forward. He held out his hands out in a pleading manner. "Jeremy, how long have you known me? Two years? And Ron, we've known each other since college. I got you this job! Come on, you guys know me. Stand down."

"We can't let you just take the test subject, sir." Jeremy winced, "…I'm sorry, Scott."

"Test subject?" Scott roared. "She has a fucking name, man, and you know it! Jeremy, you met Lauren years ago and you let them experiment on her? You know her!"

Ron's face heated with embarrassment. "We just stand guard outside the lab. We had no idea what they were doing to her. Besides, she volunteered for it."

"Look at her!" Yessenia screamed. "Look at what they're doing to her! You think she signed up to be tortured? They forced her to come back!"

"I don't know anything about that, ma'am."

Yessenia looked ready to choke the guards. "Her brother, my son, is in a coma. He took a bullet to the head during a mission. They threatened to remove his life support if she did not cooperate."

Everyone, on both sides of the standoff, fell silent in shock. Kevin saw only red again. Slowly, Jeremy and the two other guards lowered their weapons. Their eyes shifted to the limp Lauriel and the trail of blood that oozed from her nose. Her shift revealed the numerous bruises and wounds to her arms and legs, some obviously recent. Her hair was cut in odd lengths and there was no longer a braid upon her head.

Kevin held his daughter closer to his chest, his stomach twisting at the sight of her pale and gaunt face. How could this have happened? Green had promised him! Green had given his word that if any of the door's victims were successfully returned, they wouldn't become science projects. Green had guaranteed Lauren's safety and–

"Kevin, what do you think you are doing?"

They all turned to see President Green striding towards them, flanked by his Secret Service attendants and Michelle Gats. He wore a navy-blue suit, tailored to perfection, with the signature American flag pin on his lapel. His dark hair was streaked with silver, and stress wrinkles aged the man beyond his years – the price every president paid for wielding such power. Still, he walked confidently and observed them with amusement.

"Hand her over, Kevin."

The admiral glared at the man who had been his ally, his leader, and friend. Now, he only saw an enemy. "No."

"You heard your wife." Green smirked. "Or I suppose I should say ex-wife. You know what we'll do if you do not cooperate."

Green did not even flinch when they all gave him looks of disgust.

"What kind of man uses a comatose soldier as leverage?!" Scott bellowed.

"Silence." Green held up a hand. "Hand the girl over, or Michelle here will have to make an unfortunate phone call. What's your son's name, again?"

"Anthony, sir." Michelle supplied with a cool smile.

"Ah, yes, Anthony. He's just down the hall; it won't take long to pull the plug."

Without a hint of compassion, Michelle brought the phone to her ear and waited. Kevin tensed and looked to Yessenia. She stared at him and they communicated silently, until finally she nodded slowly.

Against every instinct that screamed within him, Kevin reluctantly allowed Ron to step forward and take his daughter. The admiral's eyes narrowed at the guard, and he whispered, "You take care of her, son."

Ron gulped and nodded hesitantly, before carrying her off. Jeremy and the other guards remained, but refused to point their weapons at the admiral. He was not their enemy here.

"Why?" Kevin demanded, his voice cold. "Why are you doing this? You are the President of the United States. You are supposed to represent freedom and democracy."

"Freedom and democracy… Such powerful ideas and even more powerful tools, when used correctly," Green interrupted. "That's why I've always liked you, Kevin. You are a man of principle, even now. It didn't matter how high you rose in the ranks; you were still the same idealistic fool. You were a great ally. Our friendship during the campaign really helped with the veterans' vote, and you were one hell of a golf buddy.

"It's nothing personal, my old friend, simply politics. Not only have we discovered an endless power supply and weapons that will revolutionize this world, but we've found a treasure in that other dimension. Do you have any idea how much money there is to be made?"

"So what, you're going to kill everyone there and take their resources? It won't be a war, it'll be a massacre."

Green made a face. "Ah, that's the tricky part. Our economy is still struggling to recover from the war and the people are hurting. They're afraid of a civil war, like in China, and fear… fear is a powerful thing. They're desperate, so desperate that they'd be willing to endure another war if it meant making our country the richest in the world again. Plus, unlocking the secret to immortality is one hell of a motivator. Thank you for completing Phase Two for me. With my nephew, your daughter, and Miller out of the way, we've taken care of our own. Phase Three can finally begin."

"So that's what it's all been leading up to… You're going to invade Middle-Earth."

"You can't go to war without Congress and the public's support." Yessenia challenged. "Somehow I don't think 'help me slaughter an entire world so we can steal their resources and abilities' is going to go well with them."

"You're right," Green conceded, but then grinned wickedly. "But when they see footage of monsters attacking our troops, who are courageously trying to rescue kidnapped Americans, and an elf murdering the decorated Captain Alan Rochester with an arrow through the throat, they'll have a change of heart. It's easy to control the people when they're scared and angry."

"You're talking about slaughtering innocent people. It's not just monsters there, but other humans like us." Yessenia's voice trembled, "There are women and children-"

"Who cares?"

The president glanced at their disgusted and shocked expressions. "Now, don't look at me like that. You can judge me all you want, but I am not doing this simply for America, but for the entire world. I will be the president who transformed our planet, who redefined the future of humanity, and no one will care about the bloody trail I left behind us. Who knows how many more dimensions there are, ready to be explored and if necessary, conquered."

Until now, Dr. Williams had remained silent. Now the man shook his head and spoke. "No. I will not let you use my technology for such horrible plans."

"Fortunately for me, Dr. Williams, you've already built the door."

Despite his age and small stature, Dr. Williams glared dangerously. He said nothing, but the wheels in mind were turning very quickly.

Pleased by the lack of rebellion in his prized scientist, the president returned his attention to Kevin Harris and his companions. "I have arranged a gala here at Blue Lite tomorrow evening. Members of Congress and important guests will be attending, and I will reveal to them the door and the tragic story of how five Americans were kidnapped by monsters of another dimension. If you all keep your mouths shut and behave yourselves until the gala is over, then I will allow you to take Lauren home so she may pass peacefully. From what Dr. Ryder tells me, it seems like she may not have more than a couple days left. Such a shame."

Yessenia took a step forward, her hands squeezing into tight fists, but Kevin Harris held out an arm to stop her. He stared hard at the man who had once been his trusted friend. "And will you give us your word, before all these witnesses, that Anthony's life support will continue?"

"We'll never give it another thought."

Kevin Harris inhaled deeply and said, "Then we accept your terms."

"I knew you would understand, my old friend." Green adjusted his tie. "Well then, I am off to welcome my nephew back to our world. I hear he's quite the hairy fellow now! Excuse me."

They watched Green and his entourage turn and disappear down the hallway. Left in stunned silence, Yessenia recovered and began to slam her fists into the admiral's chest. "You son of a bitch!" she screamed. "You let him go! You let them take her!"

"Yessenia, listen," Kevin took the blows without protest, but gave Jim a grateful look when the younger man wrapped his arms around her, pulling her away. "Calm down and listen to me."

Her dark brown eyes were wet and full of emotion as she stared at him. "We are fighters, always have been and always will be," he said.

"Spare me! Why–"

"I have a plan." That gained her, and everyone else's, attention, and Kevin Harris felt determination rise within him. It was not his original plan, and it would be more dangerous than he could have ever imagined, but it would fix his mistakes if it worked. "But I can't do it alone. I'm going to need all the help I can get."

"Count me in sir," Big B immediately responded. His face was still tight with silent rage from their run-in with the president.

"Me too." Jim released a calmed Yessenia. "If that bastard is hurting Lauriel, it won't be long until it's Anna or Robert in there. I'll protect them no matter what."

Scott nodded. "You already know my answer, sir."

The admiral was not disappointed in their answers. They were some of the finest men he'd ever known. He was however, taken aback when Jeremy stepped forward. The guard turned his comms off and declared, "I'm with you, sir."

"And me." The third guard, who was a stranger to Kevin, added.

"Me too, sir." The last military man said.

This was why Kevin Harris had joined the Navy. It had been an honor to fight alongside men like these, who demonstrated courage and honor beyond any measure. It was men like them who kept him fighting all those years. He nodded gratefully at them, his determination turning into confidence. Then, he considered the scientist in their group. "Dr. Williams, we're going to need your help too, but I don't think you're going to like it."

The elderly man adjusted his glasses. "What do you intend to do?"

"I know it's your life's work, doctor, but we have to stop them. I'm sorry… but we need to destroy the door, for good."

"Why, what a coincidence. I was thinking exactly the same thing," Dr. Williams said with a wide smile. His answer surprised them all, but there would time for questions later. All that mattered was that the doctor was on board.

"And what about our daughter?" Yessenia asked, her voice growing stronger by the second. "How are we going to save her?"

"It's time we take Lauriel home… To her true home."