*** Hey everyone. I made a booboo in the last chapter. Faramir already knew
about his brother's demise. I will fix it this chapter I promise.
Lady Death: I'm glad you liked. I hope you enjoy this hopefully long chapter.
Dara Maeko: Hey glad you liked. I hope you have a great summer and yes the parties were great. I hope you like!
Cassie-bear01: I'm glad you like the chapter. After this weekend the parties will be over with. I hope you like!
QTpie-pippinsgurl: You know me angst chapters are my specialty. I hope you like!
corrina: Hey I'm glad you liked. I can't believe I got people to tear up. You're not a sap for cryin'. I hope you like!
stellamucca: Hey thanks for the review. I'd never want you to get bored. I hope you like!
kurleyhawk2: Thank you for the review and compliment. That chapter took me forever to write just the right way. I hope you like!
Nightshade: Thank you! I hope you like!
Aislin: No worries. You're my most constant review and I thank you. I know what you mean with the site doin' crazy stuff. Its ok you didn't ruin anything despite what I said above. I forgot denial in the things that she saw in Faramir when she was talkin' to him. I know we all who have jobs don't have much time for ourselves so don't worry if you can't get a long review in. And for goodness sakes take your time with your next chapter. Don't rush. I'll patiently wait for the update. I hope you like!
anime princess: Hey thanks for reviewin'. Also thank you for the compliment. I hope you like! ***
"Shealyn wake up!" A distant voice called to me.
"Why me?" I mumbled provoking a chuckle from the voice.
~*~ That's it little one its time to wake ~*~ The voice said reverting to Sindarin.
~*~ Go kiss an orc ~*~ I cursed pushing myself up into a sitting position though my eyes were still closed.
~*~ Come now you did not really mean that. Open your eyes little one ~*~ The voice jested as a hand firmly held my body upright preventing me from falling back onto the cot to sleep.
"What if I meant it?" I asked slipping into the Common Tongue while opening my eyes to find Rumil kneeling beside the cot.
"Rumil what are you doin' here?" I asked wrapping my arms tightly around his neck.
"We are leaving for Mordor in a couple of days and Lothlorien has come back to aid in this battle.
"I'm up now just give me a few minutes. Ok?" I replied as Rumil stood.
"Of course little one we will be waiting outside for you." He responded before he left the tent to join the others.
I smiled after him, but that quickly faded as the memory of yesterday came back to haunt me. Faramir's eyes had held so many emotions, but the one that had stood out the most was denial. I knew he had seen the funeral boat though he seemed to not really believe it till I had come to him.
"He didn't want to believe what he saw." I whispered knowing how he felt.
Slowly I stood up and stretched before I changed into a dark shirt, tunic, and pants.
*** Flashback ***
Sitting on the windowsill in the deserted living room I stared out the window at nothing in particular.
~he's not dead~ I though furiously as a few tears escaped my eyes. ~He'll come walkin' through the gates and laugh tellin' us that we worry to much~ I thought.
My eyes searched the long driveway that led towards the street. "He's not comin' back darlin'." Logan said from behind.
I looked back at the man as he came and sat beside me resting his hand on my shoulder. "Darlin' Tony's not comin' back. He's dead Shealyn, he's dead." He growled loosing patience with my grieving. "Go get ready the funeral is in an hour." Logan added more gently.
"Ok...." I whispered rising and leaving the room.
************************************************************************
"Are you comin'?" Jubilee asked poking her head in the limo window.
They had managed to get me dressed and into the limo, but when we arrived at the cemetery my limbs froze. I was afraid to face the truth. Tony had died in my arms and still I didn't want to believe.
Slowly, numbly I climbed out of the limo smoothing out the wrinkles in my long black dress (the only one I owned) and walked alongside the others as we silently made our way over to the grave. Tony's family stood to one side with the priest numbly staring at their son's grave.
I tried to take a step backwards to run but a firm hand on my shoulder stilled my movements. "No darlin'." Logan said from beside me.
Sighing in defeat I stared at the oak casket that lay before me with an enlarged school picture of Tony propped up in front of it. The service began shortly after but I paid no attention.
"We're goin' home darlin'. Logan's voice said bringing me out of my thoughts.
Blinking I looked up finding everyone gone except for us. I was so out of it that I hadn't noticed that the workers had lowered the casket and filled in the hole.
"Give me a few minutes." I whispered as I sat down in front of the mound.
"We will be waiting in the car Shealyn." Professor Xavier replied softly before moving off towards the car with the others following him.
Turning my attention back to the fresh grave my thoughts wandered to my classmate who had become my friend.
"I'm sorry Tony..." I whispered. "I wish I knew how to cure leukemia, but I didn't and you died."
Tony had been the only human that was really trusted by the others at the mansion even Xavier told him that he was welcome there as long as he didn't say anything to anyone about the mutants.
I remembered his long blonde hair was always in his eyes, well until he began chemo. After that he wore a baseball cap. Sometimes I would go over to his house and sit with him. We would watch all the sports games and he would teach me all the rules and players names. This was only two months after I was rescued. Everyday when I went I noticed that his eyes seemed to grow dull over time which scared me to no end.
"Who am I supposed to watch sports with now?" I asked the dirt.
Of course I received no answer but it helped to talk. Slowly I stood brushing of my dress a sinking feeling in my heart. Tony was really dead and never coming back. "Bye Tony." I whispered softly turning from the grave and making my way to the waiting car slowly.
*** End of Flashback ***
I stood up from the cot and brushed the painful memory out of my mind as I stepped out into the morning light. The twins were talking quietly with Haldir and his brothers while the three I had traveled with sat talking with Halbarad.
"Mornin'!" I said to them as I sat down next to Rumil. "What ya talkin' about?" I asked curiously.
"We were talking about a crazy girl we know." Haldir told me ruffling my hair.
"Oh and who would that crazy girl be?" I asked with a smirk.
The guys laughed carefully clapping me on the back. "Would you like something to eat Shealyn?" Legolas asked.
"Yeah I guess so." I said taking the offered plate. "About yesterday..." I started.
"There is no need to apologize little one." Elrohir interrupted me.
I nodded picking at the food thinking only of my conversation with Faramir. "Is something troubling you little one?" Aragorn asked looking at me with concern.
"Nothing." I answered rather quickly.
Taking a few more bites of my food I didn't notice the worried glances from my friends. "I'll be right back." I spoke up while getting to my feet.
"Don't wander too far little one." Aragorn said shooting glances at everyone to stay seated.
Nodding I walked away my eyes downcast. Silently I walked passed the other occupants of the camp not paying attention to the stares.
Finally exiting the camp I unconsciously walked towards the hill that faced the White City and sat down on the boulder. ~I need to stop thinkin' this way~ I thought shaking my head a little in disgust.
The soft breeze played with my unbound hair as I sat there quietly thinking of my life. ~I've sure had a tough life~ I realized. ~but I'm a survivor. Nothing is goin' to bring me down~ I thought. ~easily anyways~ I added to my thoughts.
***Flashback***
'Bring'
"Alright class." The history teacher called out above the students whoops of joy. "Remember to write that two page essay on any historical figure you wish. Also have a super weekend." He knew the moment he spoke his words had entered on one side and exited the other.
"Can I walk you home Shealyn?" Tony asked falling into step beside me as I made my way through the crowd hallways of Westchester Middle School.
"Mr. Logan's comin' to pick me up, but if you want we could give you a ride." I stated opening my locker to put my books away.
"Ah no thank you." Tony replied. "I'll see you Monday then?" He questioned readjusting his backpack.
"Come on Tony, Mr. Logan won't bite." I responded shouldering my own backpack.
"Maybe some other time." He answered nervously. "I gotta go." He added walking towards the doors.
"Fine!" I called to him. "See ya Monday."
"Bye Shealyn." Tony called over his shoulder as he rounded a corner.
"Bye..." I whispered heading out the closest door finding Logan waiting in his Jeep.
***End of Flashback***
I smiled at the memory. ~That was a week after we met~ I thought.
I sat there on the boulder until the sun was high in the sky before I decided to get up and walk around. ~might as well go in~ I thought looking up at the city walls.
As I entered the city I aimlessly walked around wandering over to little shops and generally just watching the activity.
"Shealyn wait up." I heard a voice shout behind me.
Slowing my step I turned to find a red faced curly haired hobbit running towards me. "Pippin you crazy hobbit what are you doin'?" I asked as he rammed into my legs causing me to fall backwards onto the ground.
"I was so worried about you." He said hugging me tighter.
"Aw you crazy hobbit, you guys worry to much about me." I cried ruffling his curly hair.
"How many times do we have to tell you, you crazy girl that its our job to worry about you Shealyn." Pippin responded as he pulled me to my feet. "Come Merry wishes to see you." He added pulling me off towards Gondor.
Pippin pulled me through the doors and towards the stairs. "He'll be so happy to see you." Pippin exclaimed as we continued up the stairs.
"I bet." I whispered absently staring at the tapestries hanging on either wall depicting fighting and love scenes.
"Here we are." Pippin announced opening the door. "Merry I've found her." He told his cousin that lay propped up in bed.
"Hey Merry." I greeted my eyes taking in his appearance. "I hear you battled the witch-king with Éowyn." I stated.
Merry was paler then I had remembered him. His tired dark eyes were staring at me as Pippin led me over to the bed. He smiled wearily as I sat down on the edge of the bed while Pippin settled in the too big chair beside Merry's bedside. The hobbit held out his hand which I took and allowed him to pull me into an embrace.
"I thought you would never come visit me." He whispered as I pulled away from him.
Smiling I ruffled his hair gently. "I would never just ditch you Merry." I said.
"Pippin told me that you went to visit Boromir's brother yesterday." Merry said slowly still holding my hand.
"Yes I saw him yesterday." I said softly. "He knew about Boromir's death but he was denying it. I told him everything from the time we left Rivendell till that fateful day at Amon Hen." My voice lowering to a whisper.
The room went silent and neither hobbit said a word. "It must have been rough." Merry stated matter-of-factly after awhile.
"So..." I drifted off desperately wanting to change the subject. "... will you two tell me about the Shire again?" I asked looking hopefully between the two hobbits.
"Of course!" They both cried in unison. "What would you like to hear?" Pippin asked moving himself up onto the bed.
Shrugging my shoulders I raked through my memories of the brief stories I had heard on the trip. "Tell me of the infamous Bilbo's 111th birthday party." I replied remembering one night in Lothlorien when the four hobbits spoke of that night.
"Well..." Merry began. "... seventeen years ago by the shire reckoning..." The story went on as the two hobbits laughed and talked about the party.
As Pippin neared the end with Bilbo's disappearance I glanced up at Merry who was valiantly fighting off sleep. "Go to sleep Merry." I whispered interrupting Pippin's monologue and crawled over besides the wounded hobbit.
"Why should I listen to a youngster such as yourself?" He questioned sleepily.
Shaking my head I tucked the covers carefully around his body. "You may be older then I by many years Meriadoc but I'm not the one lying in a sick bed." I stated matter-of-factly.
"Our 'little sister' is right Merry." Pippin replied emphasizing little. "You are still recovering so therefore you must rest. Besides I must get back to work and I am sure they will send out a search party to look for Shealyn. It is well past your bedtime young lady." He added with a slight scolding tone.
"Is it really that late again?" I asked standing up to stretch.
"Aye, now off with you." Pippin said shoeing me out the door.
Quietly slipping out the door I made my way down the hallway to the stairs. ~I'm in so much trouble~ I thought as I took the stairs two at a time.
Walking silently out the door I made my way through the city. I hadn't gone very far when someone grabbed hold of my arm. "What... are you doin'... out so late?" A slurred voice questioned as the grip on my arm tightened.
"Don't touch me you drunkard." I cursed wrenching my arm from his grasp.
"Oh what will you do to me?" He taunted grabbing my arm again.
Lightning flashed through my eyes as I turned to face the man. His greasy dark hair lay limply around his scarred face. His darks eyes swam dangerously as he tightened his grip.
"I warned ya." I hissed lifting my hand palm out.
The familiar sensation ran to my fingers as I released my 'gift' on the hapless man.
"You little wench." He bellowed releasing his grip but preparing to punch me.
Out of the blue a hand shot out and grabbed hold of the man's wrist twisting it back until a hiss of pain escaped his lips.
"That is not a very wise action." An angry voice hissed. "The girl is under the protection of the rangers led by Strider. To harm her you will release the wrath of the rangers."
The drunkard's eyes grew enormous as he stuttered before backing away and fleeing their sight.
"I thought Strider told you not to wander far." Halbarad scolded resting a hand on my shoulder and leading her towards the gates.
"I... I was distracted." I whispered.
"That is alright little one; though I suggest we hurry Aragorn is becoming quite worried about your disappearance." Halbarad answered.
Nodding I allowed Halbarad lead me back to camp.
"Where have you been?" Aragorn asked rather angrily as we entered the camp.
"I... I.... um went for a walk." I replied weakly as Aragorn crossed the distance and placed his hands on my shoulders.
"That was hours ago little one. You left after breakfast and didn't return. Anything could have happened to you." Aragorn stated his voice softer then before.
"Pippin found me as I was walkin' back to camp and pulled me up to Merry's room. I was with them until I left..." I began.
"Strider, I found Shealyn being harassed by a drunkard. He was fixing to harm her." Halbarad interrupted causing Aragorn's head to look up abruptly at the ranger.
"Were you hurt little one?" Aragorn enquired looking me up and down for any sign of injury.
"I'm alright Aragorn. Quit being a worrywart." I replied shrugging his hands off my shoulders.
"It is my job to worry about you Shealyn." Aragorn responded quietly pulling me into a tight embrace.
I wrapped my arms around him tightly pressing my face against his chest. My thoughts ran back to the X-Men and Tony they were my past Aragorn and the others were my future. I held on tighter to the man as he gently rubbed my back soothingly.
"Aragorn I'm sorry for worrying you." I replied.
"That is alright Shealyn I am just relieved to see that you are well." Aragorn answered leading me over to the fire where the twins, Haldir and his brothers sat conversing about the past.
"Where did you wonder off to hên maethor (child warrior)?" Haldir asked causing the others to look up as we approached the group.
"Went to think and then Pippin found me. He took me to see Merry." I responded sitting down between Rumil and Elrohir.
"Shealyn tell us about your life with the X-Men." Legolas said from the other side of the fire.
"Alright." I said shifting a little. "After the X-Men rescued me I was taken to their home in New York." I stated watching the dancing flames. "It was a rather large home with many rooms. Most of the kids were older then I and the adults were former students of Professor Xavier taught us how to control our gifts."
"Were the others nice to you?" Elrohir asked stoking the fire as he looked over at me.
"Well since I was the youngest, the other students felt obligated to be nice to me except for Jubilee who was always like my older sister. She, Bobby, Remy, and Logan did their best to help me along. They taught me about the things that I missed while being held captive for four and a half years...." I started.
"Four and a half years!" Elladan exclaimed choking on a piece of bread.
"Chew your food you animal." Elrohir cried in exasperation slapping his twin on the back until Elladan was breathing normally.
Giggling I shook my head. "Yes Elladan I was taken when I was six and rescued when I was ten."
"What kind of man would do that to a child?" He asked barely containing his anger.
"A sick evil man would Elladan. In my world the evil sometimes dominates the good. I was just lucky that I was rescued at all." I whispered.
Silently Elrohir wrapped an arm around my shoulder. ~*~ Let us not think of those bad times of your capture ~*~ He whispered. ~*~ Tell us did the other children give you a hard time ~*~ He added changing the subject quickly.
"What do you think Elrohir? The kids besides Jubilee and Bobby viewed me as a tag along kid." I replied instantly. "algo ellos amigos estan." I whispered thoughtfully in Spanish. (A/N: I'm not really good at forming Spanish sentences but what that meant was Some friends they were)
"Excuse me?" Rumil asked as he and the others looked at me with confusion. "What language did you speak in?"
"It is Spanish and it means..." I began to say before sighing. "Never mind I can't explain it." I stated.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Shealyn grew quiet as she stared into the fire as if looking for something. The confused men, elves, and dwarf quietly watched the young girl non of them brave enough to speak.
They became worried when silent tears streamed down her face. ~*~ Don't cry little one ~*~ Elrohir whispered pulling the girl into his lap where Shealyn began to sob clutching Elrohir's tunic
Quietly the elf began to sing a lullaby gently rocking back and forth hoping to calm Shealyn and put her to sleep.
After a few moments Shealyn tiredly tried to push herself out of Elrohir's lap, but failed to do so as she slipped into a peaceful sleep.
Rumil stood taking the girl from Elrohir's arms cradling her as he entered the tent and placed her on the cot. Taking a blanket that lay at the foot of the cot Rumil covered the small form brushing the raven black hair from her face.
~*~ Sleep well Shealyn ~*~ He whispered as he stood and left the tent.
*** I know not a great place to leave off of but I was drawing a blank. Last week I was up at University of Toledo taking placement tests and getting my residence assignment plus schedule. I'm leavin' for Survival of the Fittest camp on July 7th and returning July 11th though I might stay another day or so at my grandma's. Just a heads up also on August 1st I will leave for freshman camp for Toledo and I don't know when I'm comin' back. I have a lot to do before headin' off to college, be patient I won't let you down. I hope you liked! ***
Lady Death: I'm glad you liked. I hope you enjoy this hopefully long chapter.
Dara Maeko: Hey glad you liked. I hope you have a great summer and yes the parties were great. I hope you like!
Cassie-bear01: I'm glad you like the chapter. After this weekend the parties will be over with. I hope you like!
QTpie-pippinsgurl: You know me angst chapters are my specialty. I hope you like!
corrina: Hey I'm glad you liked. I can't believe I got people to tear up. You're not a sap for cryin'. I hope you like!
stellamucca: Hey thanks for the review. I'd never want you to get bored. I hope you like!
kurleyhawk2: Thank you for the review and compliment. That chapter took me forever to write just the right way. I hope you like!
Nightshade: Thank you! I hope you like!
Aislin: No worries. You're my most constant review and I thank you. I know what you mean with the site doin' crazy stuff. Its ok you didn't ruin anything despite what I said above. I forgot denial in the things that she saw in Faramir when she was talkin' to him. I know we all who have jobs don't have much time for ourselves so don't worry if you can't get a long review in. And for goodness sakes take your time with your next chapter. Don't rush. I'll patiently wait for the update. I hope you like!
anime princess: Hey thanks for reviewin'. Also thank you for the compliment. I hope you like! ***
"Shealyn wake up!" A distant voice called to me.
"Why me?" I mumbled provoking a chuckle from the voice.
~*~ That's it little one its time to wake ~*~ The voice said reverting to Sindarin.
~*~ Go kiss an orc ~*~ I cursed pushing myself up into a sitting position though my eyes were still closed.
~*~ Come now you did not really mean that. Open your eyes little one ~*~ The voice jested as a hand firmly held my body upright preventing me from falling back onto the cot to sleep.
"What if I meant it?" I asked slipping into the Common Tongue while opening my eyes to find Rumil kneeling beside the cot.
"Rumil what are you doin' here?" I asked wrapping my arms tightly around his neck.
"We are leaving for Mordor in a couple of days and Lothlorien has come back to aid in this battle.
"I'm up now just give me a few minutes. Ok?" I replied as Rumil stood.
"Of course little one we will be waiting outside for you." He responded before he left the tent to join the others.
I smiled after him, but that quickly faded as the memory of yesterday came back to haunt me. Faramir's eyes had held so many emotions, but the one that had stood out the most was denial. I knew he had seen the funeral boat though he seemed to not really believe it till I had come to him.
"He didn't want to believe what he saw." I whispered knowing how he felt.
Slowly I stood up and stretched before I changed into a dark shirt, tunic, and pants.
*** Flashback ***
Sitting on the windowsill in the deserted living room I stared out the window at nothing in particular.
~he's not dead~ I though furiously as a few tears escaped my eyes. ~He'll come walkin' through the gates and laugh tellin' us that we worry to much~ I thought.
My eyes searched the long driveway that led towards the street. "He's not comin' back darlin'." Logan said from behind.
I looked back at the man as he came and sat beside me resting his hand on my shoulder. "Darlin' Tony's not comin' back. He's dead Shealyn, he's dead." He growled loosing patience with my grieving. "Go get ready the funeral is in an hour." Logan added more gently.
"Ok...." I whispered rising and leaving the room.
************************************************************************
"Are you comin'?" Jubilee asked poking her head in the limo window.
They had managed to get me dressed and into the limo, but when we arrived at the cemetery my limbs froze. I was afraid to face the truth. Tony had died in my arms and still I didn't want to believe.
Slowly, numbly I climbed out of the limo smoothing out the wrinkles in my long black dress (the only one I owned) and walked alongside the others as we silently made our way over to the grave. Tony's family stood to one side with the priest numbly staring at their son's grave.
I tried to take a step backwards to run but a firm hand on my shoulder stilled my movements. "No darlin'." Logan said from beside me.
Sighing in defeat I stared at the oak casket that lay before me with an enlarged school picture of Tony propped up in front of it. The service began shortly after but I paid no attention.
"We're goin' home darlin'. Logan's voice said bringing me out of my thoughts.
Blinking I looked up finding everyone gone except for us. I was so out of it that I hadn't noticed that the workers had lowered the casket and filled in the hole.
"Give me a few minutes." I whispered as I sat down in front of the mound.
"We will be waiting in the car Shealyn." Professor Xavier replied softly before moving off towards the car with the others following him.
Turning my attention back to the fresh grave my thoughts wandered to my classmate who had become my friend.
"I'm sorry Tony..." I whispered. "I wish I knew how to cure leukemia, but I didn't and you died."
Tony had been the only human that was really trusted by the others at the mansion even Xavier told him that he was welcome there as long as he didn't say anything to anyone about the mutants.
I remembered his long blonde hair was always in his eyes, well until he began chemo. After that he wore a baseball cap. Sometimes I would go over to his house and sit with him. We would watch all the sports games and he would teach me all the rules and players names. This was only two months after I was rescued. Everyday when I went I noticed that his eyes seemed to grow dull over time which scared me to no end.
"Who am I supposed to watch sports with now?" I asked the dirt.
Of course I received no answer but it helped to talk. Slowly I stood brushing of my dress a sinking feeling in my heart. Tony was really dead and never coming back. "Bye Tony." I whispered softly turning from the grave and making my way to the waiting car slowly.
*** End of Flashback ***
I stood up from the cot and brushed the painful memory out of my mind as I stepped out into the morning light. The twins were talking quietly with Haldir and his brothers while the three I had traveled with sat talking with Halbarad.
"Mornin'!" I said to them as I sat down next to Rumil. "What ya talkin' about?" I asked curiously.
"We were talking about a crazy girl we know." Haldir told me ruffling my hair.
"Oh and who would that crazy girl be?" I asked with a smirk.
The guys laughed carefully clapping me on the back. "Would you like something to eat Shealyn?" Legolas asked.
"Yeah I guess so." I said taking the offered plate. "About yesterday..." I started.
"There is no need to apologize little one." Elrohir interrupted me.
I nodded picking at the food thinking only of my conversation with Faramir. "Is something troubling you little one?" Aragorn asked looking at me with concern.
"Nothing." I answered rather quickly.
Taking a few more bites of my food I didn't notice the worried glances from my friends. "I'll be right back." I spoke up while getting to my feet.
"Don't wander too far little one." Aragorn said shooting glances at everyone to stay seated.
Nodding I walked away my eyes downcast. Silently I walked passed the other occupants of the camp not paying attention to the stares.
Finally exiting the camp I unconsciously walked towards the hill that faced the White City and sat down on the boulder. ~I need to stop thinkin' this way~ I thought shaking my head a little in disgust.
The soft breeze played with my unbound hair as I sat there quietly thinking of my life. ~I've sure had a tough life~ I realized. ~but I'm a survivor. Nothing is goin' to bring me down~ I thought. ~easily anyways~ I added to my thoughts.
***Flashback***
'Bring'
"Alright class." The history teacher called out above the students whoops of joy. "Remember to write that two page essay on any historical figure you wish. Also have a super weekend." He knew the moment he spoke his words had entered on one side and exited the other.
"Can I walk you home Shealyn?" Tony asked falling into step beside me as I made my way through the crowd hallways of Westchester Middle School.
"Mr. Logan's comin' to pick me up, but if you want we could give you a ride." I stated opening my locker to put my books away.
"Ah no thank you." Tony replied. "I'll see you Monday then?" He questioned readjusting his backpack.
"Come on Tony, Mr. Logan won't bite." I responded shouldering my own backpack.
"Maybe some other time." He answered nervously. "I gotta go." He added walking towards the doors.
"Fine!" I called to him. "See ya Monday."
"Bye Shealyn." Tony called over his shoulder as he rounded a corner.
"Bye..." I whispered heading out the closest door finding Logan waiting in his Jeep.
***End of Flashback***
I smiled at the memory. ~That was a week after we met~ I thought.
I sat there on the boulder until the sun was high in the sky before I decided to get up and walk around. ~might as well go in~ I thought looking up at the city walls.
As I entered the city I aimlessly walked around wandering over to little shops and generally just watching the activity.
"Shealyn wait up." I heard a voice shout behind me.
Slowing my step I turned to find a red faced curly haired hobbit running towards me. "Pippin you crazy hobbit what are you doin'?" I asked as he rammed into my legs causing me to fall backwards onto the ground.
"I was so worried about you." He said hugging me tighter.
"Aw you crazy hobbit, you guys worry to much about me." I cried ruffling his curly hair.
"How many times do we have to tell you, you crazy girl that its our job to worry about you Shealyn." Pippin responded as he pulled me to my feet. "Come Merry wishes to see you." He added pulling me off towards Gondor.
Pippin pulled me through the doors and towards the stairs. "He'll be so happy to see you." Pippin exclaimed as we continued up the stairs.
"I bet." I whispered absently staring at the tapestries hanging on either wall depicting fighting and love scenes.
"Here we are." Pippin announced opening the door. "Merry I've found her." He told his cousin that lay propped up in bed.
"Hey Merry." I greeted my eyes taking in his appearance. "I hear you battled the witch-king with Éowyn." I stated.
Merry was paler then I had remembered him. His tired dark eyes were staring at me as Pippin led me over to the bed. He smiled wearily as I sat down on the edge of the bed while Pippin settled in the too big chair beside Merry's bedside. The hobbit held out his hand which I took and allowed him to pull me into an embrace.
"I thought you would never come visit me." He whispered as I pulled away from him.
Smiling I ruffled his hair gently. "I would never just ditch you Merry." I said.
"Pippin told me that you went to visit Boromir's brother yesterday." Merry said slowly still holding my hand.
"Yes I saw him yesterday." I said softly. "He knew about Boromir's death but he was denying it. I told him everything from the time we left Rivendell till that fateful day at Amon Hen." My voice lowering to a whisper.
The room went silent and neither hobbit said a word. "It must have been rough." Merry stated matter-of-factly after awhile.
"So..." I drifted off desperately wanting to change the subject. "... will you two tell me about the Shire again?" I asked looking hopefully between the two hobbits.
"Of course!" They both cried in unison. "What would you like to hear?" Pippin asked moving himself up onto the bed.
Shrugging my shoulders I raked through my memories of the brief stories I had heard on the trip. "Tell me of the infamous Bilbo's 111th birthday party." I replied remembering one night in Lothlorien when the four hobbits spoke of that night.
"Well..." Merry began. "... seventeen years ago by the shire reckoning..." The story went on as the two hobbits laughed and talked about the party.
As Pippin neared the end with Bilbo's disappearance I glanced up at Merry who was valiantly fighting off sleep. "Go to sleep Merry." I whispered interrupting Pippin's monologue and crawled over besides the wounded hobbit.
"Why should I listen to a youngster such as yourself?" He questioned sleepily.
Shaking my head I tucked the covers carefully around his body. "You may be older then I by many years Meriadoc but I'm not the one lying in a sick bed." I stated matter-of-factly.
"Our 'little sister' is right Merry." Pippin replied emphasizing little. "You are still recovering so therefore you must rest. Besides I must get back to work and I am sure they will send out a search party to look for Shealyn. It is well past your bedtime young lady." He added with a slight scolding tone.
"Is it really that late again?" I asked standing up to stretch.
"Aye, now off with you." Pippin said shoeing me out the door.
Quietly slipping out the door I made my way down the hallway to the stairs. ~I'm in so much trouble~ I thought as I took the stairs two at a time.
Walking silently out the door I made my way through the city. I hadn't gone very far when someone grabbed hold of my arm. "What... are you doin'... out so late?" A slurred voice questioned as the grip on my arm tightened.
"Don't touch me you drunkard." I cursed wrenching my arm from his grasp.
"Oh what will you do to me?" He taunted grabbing my arm again.
Lightning flashed through my eyes as I turned to face the man. His greasy dark hair lay limply around his scarred face. His darks eyes swam dangerously as he tightened his grip.
"I warned ya." I hissed lifting my hand palm out.
The familiar sensation ran to my fingers as I released my 'gift' on the hapless man.
"You little wench." He bellowed releasing his grip but preparing to punch me.
Out of the blue a hand shot out and grabbed hold of the man's wrist twisting it back until a hiss of pain escaped his lips.
"That is not a very wise action." An angry voice hissed. "The girl is under the protection of the rangers led by Strider. To harm her you will release the wrath of the rangers."
The drunkard's eyes grew enormous as he stuttered before backing away and fleeing their sight.
"I thought Strider told you not to wander far." Halbarad scolded resting a hand on my shoulder and leading her towards the gates.
"I... I was distracted." I whispered.
"That is alright little one; though I suggest we hurry Aragorn is becoming quite worried about your disappearance." Halbarad answered.
Nodding I allowed Halbarad lead me back to camp.
"Where have you been?" Aragorn asked rather angrily as we entered the camp.
"I... I.... um went for a walk." I replied weakly as Aragorn crossed the distance and placed his hands on my shoulders.
"That was hours ago little one. You left after breakfast and didn't return. Anything could have happened to you." Aragorn stated his voice softer then before.
"Pippin found me as I was walkin' back to camp and pulled me up to Merry's room. I was with them until I left..." I began.
"Strider, I found Shealyn being harassed by a drunkard. He was fixing to harm her." Halbarad interrupted causing Aragorn's head to look up abruptly at the ranger.
"Were you hurt little one?" Aragorn enquired looking me up and down for any sign of injury.
"I'm alright Aragorn. Quit being a worrywart." I replied shrugging his hands off my shoulders.
"It is my job to worry about you Shealyn." Aragorn responded quietly pulling me into a tight embrace.
I wrapped my arms around him tightly pressing my face against his chest. My thoughts ran back to the X-Men and Tony they were my past Aragorn and the others were my future. I held on tighter to the man as he gently rubbed my back soothingly.
"Aragorn I'm sorry for worrying you." I replied.
"That is alright Shealyn I am just relieved to see that you are well." Aragorn answered leading me over to the fire where the twins, Haldir and his brothers sat conversing about the past.
"Where did you wonder off to hên maethor (child warrior)?" Haldir asked causing the others to look up as we approached the group.
"Went to think and then Pippin found me. He took me to see Merry." I responded sitting down between Rumil and Elrohir.
"Shealyn tell us about your life with the X-Men." Legolas said from the other side of the fire.
"Alright." I said shifting a little. "After the X-Men rescued me I was taken to their home in New York." I stated watching the dancing flames. "It was a rather large home with many rooms. Most of the kids were older then I and the adults were former students of Professor Xavier taught us how to control our gifts."
"Were the others nice to you?" Elrohir asked stoking the fire as he looked over at me.
"Well since I was the youngest, the other students felt obligated to be nice to me except for Jubilee who was always like my older sister. She, Bobby, Remy, and Logan did their best to help me along. They taught me about the things that I missed while being held captive for four and a half years...." I started.
"Four and a half years!" Elladan exclaimed choking on a piece of bread.
"Chew your food you animal." Elrohir cried in exasperation slapping his twin on the back until Elladan was breathing normally.
Giggling I shook my head. "Yes Elladan I was taken when I was six and rescued when I was ten."
"What kind of man would do that to a child?" He asked barely containing his anger.
"A sick evil man would Elladan. In my world the evil sometimes dominates the good. I was just lucky that I was rescued at all." I whispered.
Silently Elrohir wrapped an arm around my shoulder. ~*~ Let us not think of those bad times of your capture ~*~ He whispered. ~*~ Tell us did the other children give you a hard time ~*~ He added changing the subject quickly.
"What do you think Elrohir? The kids besides Jubilee and Bobby viewed me as a tag along kid." I replied instantly. "algo ellos amigos estan." I whispered thoughtfully in Spanish. (A/N: I'm not really good at forming Spanish sentences but what that meant was Some friends they were)
"Excuse me?" Rumil asked as he and the others looked at me with confusion. "What language did you speak in?"
"It is Spanish and it means..." I began to say before sighing. "Never mind I can't explain it." I stated.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Shealyn grew quiet as she stared into the fire as if looking for something. The confused men, elves, and dwarf quietly watched the young girl non of them brave enough to speak.
They became worried when silent tears streamed down her face. ~*~ Don't cry little one ~*~ Elrohir whispered pulling the girl into his lap where Shealyn began to sob clutching Elrohir's tunic
Quietly the elf began to sing a lullaby gently rocking back and forth hoping to calm Shealyn and put her to sleep.
After a few moments Shealyn tiredly tried to push herself out of Elrohir's lap, but failed to do so as she slipped into a peaceful sleep.
Rumil stood taking the girl from Elrohir's arms cradling her as he entered the tent and placed her on the cot. Taking a blanket that lay at the foot of the cot Rumil covered the small form brushing the raven black hair from her face.
~*~ Sleep well Shealyn ~*~ He whispered as he stood and left the tent.
*** I know not a great place to leave off of but I was drawing a blank. Last week I was up at University of Toledo taking placement tests and getting my residence assignment plus schedule. I'm leavin' for Survival of the Fittest camp on July 7th and returning July 11th though I might stay another day or so at my grandma's. Just a heads up also on August 1st I will leave for freshman camp for Toledo and I don't know when I'm comin' back. I have a lot to do before headin' off to college, be patient I won't let you down. I hope you liked! ***