Dream a Little Dream
By Siren
Hola guys! Thank you so much for your reviews! Here's the next chapter for you! Oh yeah, I'm thinking of doing another story after this one. No, it won't become a trilogy. I'm not sure what I'm calling it, but it's based on the books, not the movies. It'll actually be mostly the book almost word for word, except for the original character I'm putting in it, so there will be new dialogue and actions. But since I'll be sticking to the books, there will be little to no OOC, and I will not be altering the story in any way. It's still just an idea though; so let me know what you think, okay? Gah, enough of my babbling. On with the story! ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"Um, hi guys," I greet.
They look at me in complete and utter shock, mouths gaping. We stare at each other for a few minutes before something dawns on me. Does this mean that I'm back in Middle Earth? But Fancy is with me. Did she come with me? Am I still unconscious back home from the fall? Is this just another dream that my twisted mind came up with? Will I ever stop asking myself questions? "Uh, guys, are we in Middle Earth or my earth?" I ask. Legolas is the first to finally snap out of the shock of seeing me. "As far as we know, we are in your world."
Ah ha.
"Okay...how did you guys get here? Did you all get knocked out in your world, 'cause that's how I got there. I think that's how it happened anyway." Legolas and the others share a glance. "It all started out two days ago. I will tell you everything we know, but is there anyway that we can go somewhere else? I feel someone watching us." I blink at that, and look around. Some people have been known to stray onto the property, but I doubt they'd do anything harmful to us. "I don't see anything. Besides, most people in this neighborhood are harmless. Rude, but harmless."
They nod and their bodies relax a little. Hodoer shakes her head and looks at me again. "It's really you?" she asks, a smile slowly spreading across her face. I nod and grin brightly. "In the very sore and bruised flesh," I assure her. Before I can blink I'm wrapped up in a tight hug. My eyes bulge and I feel my ribs protest at the sudden pressure. "I'm happy to see you too, but this mortal might already have a few broken ribs," I choke out. Hodoer quickly releases me and yanks my shirt up to probe at my side. I yelp and yank my shirt back down. "HEY! PUBLIC NUDITY IS ILLEGAL HERE!" I shriek, my cheeks burning. Legolas and Avarier chuckle while Hodoer shakes her head and sighs. "I was simply worried that your rib might have pieced your lung. But hearing that shout, I think you'll be fine."
Huffing, I turn and look at Astaider. She's looking at me blankly, and I can't help but feel a little worried. Why hasn't she said anything? "Hey Astaider, are you with us?" I see her face twitch a little, but she remains silent. Have I really sent her into that much of a shock? Grinning, I walk over to her and tug a lock of her hair. "Hey Blondie, feel free to join reality at any time," I tease. She gasps when I tug her hair and her eyes water. I quickly let go and open my mouth to apologize. I didn't think that I had hurt her! "Astaider---"
"YOU'RE REAL!"
I let out a yip as I'm pulled into another tight hug. If my lung wasn't pierced before, it sure is now. "I'm glad we've established my existence, but----" I let out a loud shriek as another pair of arms pull me into a hug. I look up to see Legolas grinning like an idiot. "I always knew you wanted me dead, you evil elf," I growl. Hodoer joins the group hug, suffocating me. "AVARIER! HELP! I'M BEING SMOTHERED BY ELVES!" I hear leaves crunching, and than two more arms join the hug. "AGH! YOU'RE ALL TERRIBLE!" They leave and let me go.
Bad move.
Suddenly free from my cage of arms, I stumble and fall down on my ass. Narrowing my eyes, I glare up at the elves around me. "You're all evil," I grumble and stand up. I wipe the dirt off my ass and let out a small sigh. "We should get back to the barn. I'm sure someone heard me yelling my head off. I don't know where you'll be able to stay though. My parents wouldn't exactly let fictional characters share a room with me. Oh well, we'll figure it out when the time comes. Once everything is settled, you can tell me how you got here."
I pick up the helmet and put it on. Fancy stands still, waiting patiently for me while munching on some leaves. I hear Avarier behind me, and know the elves are following me as well. Even when walking on the crunchy autumn leaves they still manage to not make a sound. "This is your steed?" Avarier asks. I nod and gather up her rains. "Yup. This is my big baby," I say with a smile. The horse nickers in reply and studies my friends curiously. "Yes Fancy, these are the ones that spooked you. Well, the human is anyway." I haul myself into the saddle and slip my feet into the stirrups. "I can probably give someone a ride," I say, and pat Fancy's rump. The horse glares at me and I shrug. "You can manage to carry one of them and my fat ass." I swear Fancy's smirking.
"We elves don't tire easily. Let Avarier ride with you," Hodoer says. "Are you sure?" the mortal asks. She nods and Avarier moves up beside me. I help him into the saddle, and turn Fancy around. We start riding back down the path, the elves walking near us. Avarier has his arms wrapped around me, and his breath tickles the back of my neck. I suppress the urge to lean into him completely, but I can't suppress a small shudder when his breath tickles the shell of my ear. How is a person supposed to ride like this?
"This feels familiar," I say, my voice wavering slightly. He moves his thumb in circular motions against my upper stomach, making me shiver.
"I remember," he whispers, his lips brushing against my ear. God he's so close.
"You're very---" I sigh, "distracting." I feel him smirking against my neck.
"Is that a bad thing?" he asks, his voice full of innocence, but I know his grinning devilishly.
"Not necessarily." I bite back the urge to moan when he presses a light kiss to my neck. A year of pent-up feelings will do this to you.
After half an hour of gentle kisses and caresses, we finally arrive at the barn. Avarier dismounts and helps me down. I lead Fancy inside and over to the crossties. "You guys will have to wait. I have to un-tack Fancy, groom her a little and take her out to the pasture. Than we can leave, okay?" "Take as much time as you need," Legolas says. I nod and remove Fancy's bridle, quickly slipping on her halter and hooking her up to the crossties. I hang her bridle up and move to the girth.
I feel their eyes on me and frown. They may be my friends but I hate to be stared at. "What?" I ask, undoing the western knot and removing the girth.
"Nothing Siren. We're just impressed at the bond between you and your beast of burden," Legolas answers. I frown and put the girth down.
"Fancy is not my 'beast of burden'. She's my friend," I say a bit snappily. I push one stirrup over the saddle horn and pull the whole thing off, saddle blanket included. Letting out a small grunt at the weight of it, I walk over to the tack-room and put it away. I walk back, take out a soft brush and begin to groom.
"Forgive me, I did not mean to offend you," comes Legolas's soft voice. I continue grooming.
"It's okay," I murmur and put the brush down. I clean out her hooves, put my tack-box away, and get her lead-rope. I hook it to her halter, free her from the crossties and lead her out of the barn. "C'mon baby, it's snack time," I say and pat her neck. "You guys stay there, I'll be right back!" I call to them, leading my horse to the pastures. I watch them nod, and turn back to the land in front of me. I lead Fancy over to the large pasture, unlock the gate and lead her inside. I take off her halter, and hug her tightly. "You're such a good girl," I say into her mane and let her go. Fancy nudges me gently, than turns and runs to join the others.
"Like I said, the bond you have with your friend is impressive."
I turn around and smile at the elf at the gate. "I thought I said to stay at the barn," I chide. Legolas shrugs and waits while I walk over to him. I leave the pasture and lock the gate behind me. "How long have you known the mare?" he asks, glancing back at her. "Almost two years. When I was in Middle Earth I was afraid that I'd never see her again." We walk for a little while in silence. "When I came home, I was afraid that I'd never see you guys again. Until today I was convinced that it was all just a dream."
"Why would you say that?" the elf asks. I wrap my arms around myself. "When I woke up, all of my old injuries from the fall were back. The cuts, bruises, small fractures. It was as though Elrond had never healed me at all. I went back to the spot where I fell and found some stains of blood from my head wound. My parents said that my mind just created you and the dream because of the trauma it went through," I explain in a solemn voice.
"But we are here, and we are real." I nod and have to restrain myself from frowning. I wish they could've been here sooner. It would've saved me a lot of trouble and pain. I wouldn't have had to spend those three hellish weeks in the hospital being told I was crazy. I wouldn't have felt so alone.
"Siren?"
I snap out of my dark thoughts and smile. "Sorry. I guess I zoned out on you. C'mon, let's get the others and go to my home." ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I walk up the steps to my house and open the door.
"MOM! I'M HOME!" I shout.
I don't hear a response and sigh with relief. My sisters are at dance class, so my parents must be picking them up at the moment. Thank God for small favors. "No one's home. Good. Let's find a place for you to stay." I walk up the stairs and head for my room. Where am I going to house three elves and a human guy? I open my bedroom door and step inside. The others follow and Astaider closes the door behind her.
"You can take my room. I'll sleep downstairs on the couch. My mom won't ask questions seeing as how I sleep there sometimes anyway." Avarier opens his mouth to argue, but I cut him off. "It'll have to do for now. And we'll have to get you some different clothes. Ladies, you're thinner than I am, so I'll get some of my sisters' clothes. Avarier, Legolas, you'll have to make do with my dad's. Stay here while I go get them."
I walk into Kelsey's room and grab a pair of sweats and a t-shirt. I walk into my dad's room and grab a pair of baggy sweats and care-worn t- shirts. I walk back into my room and close the door behind me. "Here, wear these. They're not very flashy, but they're comfortable." I pull out a pair of my own PJ's and start walking to the door.
"Siren, these are leggings!" Hodoer shrieks. I smile and shrug. "Welcome to America," I say and leave for the bathroom.
I lock the bathroom door and remove my shirt. I wince at the sharp pain in my side and look down. The flesh there is tender and bruised terribly. I've definitely broken something. I slip on a sleeveless tank top, and replace my jeans with sweats. Once I'm changed, I turn on the water and clean the dirt off of my hands, arms, and face. "Much better," I sigh and walk back to my bedroom. "IS EVERYONE DECENT?" I shout. I hear a chorus of 'yes' and walk inside. Avarier and Legolas look great, and Astaider and Hodoer look happy.
"Wearing male clothing feels liberating!" the blonde exclaims. Hey, she might just end up being a bra-burning feminist, fighting against male oppression. Cool.
I pat her head and smile. "You're learning quickly young grasshopper." I flop onto my bed, and look over at Legolas. "So, how did you guys get here?" I ask tiredly. I'm feeling exhausted and find it hard to keep my eyes open. Legolas looks at me for a moment. "Rest. We'll discuss it later." I frown and force my eyes open. "No, you can tell me now." "Siren, don't argue with us. We can see that you're tired. Rest little mortal. We'll speak later," Hodoer soothes. I pout but consent. My eyes close, and I feel myself being lulled to sleep.
"When do we tell her? How do we tell her?"
"Later. Let her rest now."
"What happened when she left our realm, Legolas? She seems...different."
"We'll all talk later."
Yeah. Later. Soon the voices fade, and darkness covers all. But it's when I sleep that the dreams come. The dreams of being alone and locked in that hospital.
Bound at every limb by my shackles of fear
Sealed with lies through so many tears
Lost from within, pursuing the end
I fight for the chance to be lied to again
"Mom, I'm telling you the truth! I did meet them!"
"Siren, it's not possible. You were here the entire time. Honey, it's just a dream your mind made up to cope with the trauma you went through. You have to accept it!"
I sat on the hospital bed, looking at my parents in frustration. They'll never believe me! "I won't accept it! I met the elves! I was in Middle Earth! I fell in love with Avarier!" I shouted for the millionth time. My mom looked close to tears and turned away. My dad looked torn, unsure of what to say.
"Siren, your mom and I came to visit you every day. You never left this room. You were never in Middle Earth. It's all a fictional story, remember? FICTION. It was all just a dream, nothing more!"
"Than I wish I was still dreaming!"
My father looked shocked. My mom burst into tears, her shoulders shaking. "Mom---" "Siren, don't. Just don't," my dad muttered and moved to console her. Someone knocked on the door and my doctor walked in. "She's still in denial?" My dad nodded, his arms around my mom. The doc sighed and looked at me. "Siren, do you truly believe you were at that place?" I nodded. He studied me for a moment than turned to my parents. "I'd like to have her admitted. Physically she's healing splendidly. It's her mental health that concerns me at this point."
My eyes widened. "You can't be serious! I'm not gonna be sent to some loony bin!" They ignored me and continued talking. "Mom, please! Don't do this! I'm not crazy!" I pleaded, tears coming to my eyes. The doctor nodded and left the room. "Dad, you can't let them do this. I'm not crazy, I know I'm not!" A moment later the doctor returned with two orderlies, one of them carrying a syringe. "Oh fuck no," I muttered and backed away. "Don't even think about it. I'm not going to the nut house. Not a fucking chance."
"Just accept that it was all a dream."
I shook my head. "I won't lie. I was there!" The doc nodded to the nurses, and they advanced towards me. "Stay away from me," I said, backing up. Feeling my pulse quicken from the adrenaline, I made a dash for the door. The doc wrapped an arm across my chest and held me against him. "Let go you demented fucker!" I shouted, struggling. "Siren, stop!" my dad shouted. Yeah, right. The nurses came towards me, the syringe prepped and ready. "Don't you fucking touch me!" I shrieked and kicked out. I got one nurse in the shin, but the other took the needle and quickly jabbed my arm. I yelped and pulled back but it was too late. The sedative was already in my system.
Despite the sedative I continued to struggle. "Legolas! Hodoer! Astaider! Avarier!" I fought against the doctor's strong hold, my movements becoming sluggish. "Get off of me, you son of a bitch!"
Soon struggling became pointless. My limbs were going slack, and my knees were becoming weak. "What...what did you do?" The doctor picked me up and laid me down on the stretcher. "Everything is going to be fine, Siren," he said gently. My vision began to blur. "What did you do to me?" I asked in a small voice. Than the world went black once more.
You will never be strong enough
You will never be good enough
You were never conceived in love
You will not rise above
I was in the 'solitary room' for bad behavior. I had told my roommate about my adventure in Middle Earth, and the nurses got wind of it. I paced sterile room, my anger and frustration building. It wasn't fair. I didn't deserve this! "Legolas, Avarier, Hodoer, Astaider...where are you?" I whispered and leaned against the wall. "Please don't leave me alone here." I slid down the wall and onto the ground, gathering my knees to my chest. This place was hell, and I hated it. "Avarier..."
They'll never see
I'll never be
I'll struggle on and on and feed this hunger
Burning deep inside of me
"So you have accepted that it was all a dream?"
"Yes," I answered in a hollow tone. The doctor in front of me smiled happily, as did my parents. My mom hugged me tightly, kissing my forehead. "I'm so glad you're okay. You had us all so worried with your ranting and your behavior. I'm so glad you're back." I hugged her back but didn't smile. "Yeah," I muttered, "me too."
After we got home, I slipped off and into the woods. I followed the same path I had taken, and found the ledge. I knelt down and brushed some dead leaves away from the root. It was broken, mangled. Standing up, I started to climb down. Once I reached the bottom, I got on my knees and thought back to the fall. I had hit my head. I brushed the orange and brown leaves away from the ground, and looked at the rocks underneath. "C'mon guys, I know you're real..." I brushed a few more leaves away and felt my breath catch in my throat.
A large pile of rocks lay on the ground, stained crimson. I let out a small whimper and touched the cold stone. I picked up one of the rocks and sat back on my haunches. "No..." I traced the rough surface, feeling tears threatening to fall. "It was all a dream."
But through my tears breaks a binding light
Birthing a dawn to this endless night
Arms outstretched, awaiting me
An open embrace upon a bleeding tree
Letting out a sob, I dropped the rock and buried my face in my hands. I leaned forward, supporting myself on my forearms. I allowed myself this time to cry, to grieve for friends that never existed. A love that would haunt me, and yet was never real.
None of it was ever real.
I gasp as my eyes fly open. I'm back in my room, on my bed. I sit up and look around. Hodoer and Astaider are sleeping on either side of me. Where are Avarier and Legolas? I slip out of the bed, and walk into the room connected to mine. I smile softly at the sight. Avarier is stretched out on the love seat, and Legolas is sitting on the one across from him. I reach out and touch Avarier's face gently. He sighs in his sleep and leans into my touch.
"Siren?"
I look over and see Legolas looking at me worriedly. "Are you alright?" he asks. I smile slightly and nod. "Yeah, I'm fine. I'm just glad you're all here." He frowns a little but accepts my answer. Letting out a sigh I walk back into my bedroom and get back in the bed. I curl up between Hodoer and Astaider, and close my eyes.
My friends are here now.
Rest in me and I'll comfort you
I have lived and I died for you
Abide in me and I vow to you
I will never forsake you
2 Be Continued
Author's Notes-
Sigh. Hey guys. I broke my rib and tore up my knee, so I'm not a happy camper at the moment. Please forgive me.
Mellon- I couldn't just let 'Bleed for Me' end like that without a sequel! Besides, I was always curious about them coming to our world. Insanity is bound to happen.
Truffles- Okay, I'll keep writing, don't worry, lol.
Seren- I'm glad you're so happy! ^_^
Lady Galadriel- Everything will be explained in the next chapter.
Nayeli- I love your pen name. Very pretty. I'm glad you like it! ^_^
Aislin- Because of the sprained knee, I won't be able to ride my horse for a month. *cries* I'm so upset about it. I tried riding English for a year, but I can't post for the life of me, lol. I love western. The saddle is a little heavy, but it's really comfortable. And the horn is nice to hold on to during trail rides. Ah, my computer was being a brat too. This whole week has been bratty. DAMN WEEK!
Pyro she-devil- *munches on the cookie dough and shares with everyone* Thanks for the cookie dough! I'll be updating again soon!
Princess of the leaves- Love this pen name too. I like running in circles. *runs around in circles* ^_^
LalaithoftheBruinen- I'm almost done with the next chapter of 'Back Again'. I've been so freakin' busy with school, riding, and hurting my knee. Please forgive me!
Alina- Extreme? Possibly. I don't know, it just popped into my head. *gets dragged off to the nut house* HEY! I'M NOT CRAZY! Okay, that's a lie. But I'm crazy in a good way!!!
TriggerHappyElfling- Yes, elves! Always interrupting me----
Legolas: Siren?
Me: Damn it Legolas, you did it again! .
Legolas: Um, right. Frodo dropped the 'One Ring' in the toilet again.
Me: ...*takes deep, calming breaths* You're all going to be the death of me, I swear.
Legolas: Sorry. ^_^;;;
Me: Oh just shut up. -.-;;; Those lyrics are 'Lies' by Evanescence.
By Siren
Hola guys! Thank you so much for your reviews! Here's the next chapter for you! Oh yeah, I'm thinking of doing another story after this one. No, it won't become a trilogy. I'm not sure what I'm calling it, but it's based on the books, not the movies. It'll actually be mostly the book almost word for word, except for the original character I'm putting in it, so there will be new dialogue and actions. But since I'll be sticking to the books, there will be little to no OOC, and I will not be altering the story in any way. It's still just an idea though; so let me know what you think, okay? Gah, enough of my babbling. On with the story! ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"Um, hi guys," I greet.
They look at me in complete and utter shock, mouths gaping. We stare at each other for a few minutes before something dawns on me. Does this mean that I'm back in Middle Earth? But Fancy is with me. Did she come with me? Am I still unconscious back home from the fall? Is this just another dream that my twisted mind came up with? Will I ever stop asking myself questions? "Uh, guys, are we in Middle Earth or my earth?" I ask. Legolas is the first to finally snap out of the shock of seeing me. "As far as we know, we are in your world."
Ah ha.
"Okay...how did you guys get here? Did you all get knocked out in your world, 'cause that's how I got there. I think that's how it happened anyway." Legolas and the others share a glance. "It all started out two days ago. I will tell you everything we know, but is there anyway that we can go somewhere else? I feel someone watching us." I blink at that, and look around. Some people have been known to stray onto the property, but I doubt they'd do anything harmful to us. "I don't see anything. Besides, most people in this neighborhood are harmless. Rude, but harmless."
They nod and their bodies relax a little. Hodoer shakes her head and looks at me again. "It's really you?" she asks, a smile slowly spreading across her face. I nod and grin brightly. "In the very sore and bruised flesh," I assure her. Before I can blink I'm wrapped up in a tight hug. My eyes bulge and I feel my ribs protest at the sudden pressure. "I'm happy to see you too, but this mortal might already have a few broken ribs," I choke out. Hodoer quickly releases me and yanks my shirt up to probe at my side. I yelp and yank my shirt back down. "HEY! PUBLIC NUDITY IS ILLEGAL HERE!" I shriek, my cheeks burning. Legolas and Avarier chuckle while Hodoer shakes her head and sighs. "I was simply worried that your rib might have pieced your lung. But hearing that shout, I think you'll be fine."
Huffing, I turn and look at Astaider. She's looking at me blankly, and I can't help but feel a little worried. Why hasn't she said anything? "Hey Astaider, are you with us?" I see her face twitch a little, but she remains silent. Have I really sent her into that much of a shock? Grinning, I walk over to her and tug a lock of her hair. "Hey Blondie, feel free to join reality at any time," I tease. She gasps when I tug her hair and her eyes water. I quickly let go and open my mouth to apologize. I didn't think that I had hurt her! "Astaider---"
"YOU'RE REAL!"
I let out a yip as I'm pulled into another tight hug. If my lung wasn't pierced before, it sure is now. "I'm glad we've established my existence, but----" I let out a loud shriek as another pair of arms pull me into a hug. I look up to see Legolas grinning like an idiot. "I always knew you wanted me dead, you evil elf," I growl. Hodoer joins the group hug, suffocating me. "AVARIER! HELP! I'M BEING SMOTHERED BY ELVES!" I hear leaves crunching, and than two more arms join the hug. "AGH! YOU'RE ALL TERRIBLE!" They leave and let me go.
Bad move.
Suddenly free from my cage of arms, I stumble and fall down on my ass. Narrowing my eyes, I glare up at the elves around me. "You're all evil," I grumble and stand up. I wipe the dirt off my ass and let out a small sigh. "We should get back to the barn. I'm sure someone heard me yelling my head off. I don't know where you'll be able to stay though. My parents wouldn't exactly let fictional characters share a room with me. Oh well, we'll figure it out when the time comes. Once everything is settled, you can tell me how you got here."
I pick up the helmet and put it on. Fancy stands still, waiting patiently for me while munching on some leaves. I hear Avarier behind me, and know the elves are following me as well. Even when walking on the crunchy autumn leaves they still manage to not make a sound. "This is your steed?" Avarier asks. I nod and gather up her rains. "Yup. This is my big baby," I say with a smile. The horse nickers in reply and studies my friends curiously. "Yes Fancy, these are the ones that spooked you. Well, the human is anyway." I haul myself into the saddle and slip my feet into the stirrups. "I can probably give someone a ride," I say, and pat Fancy's rump. The horse glares at me and I shrug. "You can manage to carry one of them and my fat ass." I swear Fancy's smirking.
"We elves don't tire easily. Let Avarier ride with you," Hodoer says. "Are you sure?" the mortal asks. She nods and Avarier moves up beside me. I help him into the saddle, and turn Fancy around. We start riding back down the path, the elves walking near us. Avarier has his arms wrapped around me, and his breath tickles the back of my neck. I suppress the urge to lean into him completely, but I can't suppress a small shudder when his breath tickles the shell of my ear. How is a person supposed to ride like this?
"This feels familiar," I say, my voice wavering slightly. He moves his thumb in circular motions against my upper stomach, making me shiver.
"I remember," he whispers, his lips brushing against my ear. God he's so close.
"You're very---" I sigh, "distracting." I feel him smirking against my neck.
"Is that a bad thing?" he asks, his voice full of innocence, but I know his grinning devilishly.
"Not necessarily." I bite back the urge to moan when he presses a light kiss to my neck. A year of pent-up feelings will do this to you.
After half an hour of gentle kisses and caresses, we finally arrive at the barn. Avarier dismounts and helps me down. I lead Fancy inside and over to the crossties. "You guys will have to wait. I have to un-tack Fancy, groom her a little and take her out to the pasture. Than we can leave, okay?" "Take as much time as you need," Legolas says. I nod and remove Fancy's bridle, quickly slipping on her halter and hooking her up to the crossties. I hang her bridle up and move to the girth.
I feel their eyes on me and frown. They may be my friends but I hate to be stared at. "What?" I ask, undoing the western knot and removing the girth.
"Nothing Siren. We're just impressed at the bond between you and your beast of burden," Legolas answers. I frown and put the girth down.
"Fancy is not my 'beast of burden'. She's my friend," I say a bit snappily. I push one stirrup over the saddle horn and pull the whole thing off, saddle blanket included. Letting out a small grunt at the weight of it, I walk over to the tack-room and put it away. I walk back, take out a soft brush and begin to groom.
"Forgive me, I did not mean to offend you," comes Legolas's soft voice. I continue grooming.
"It's okay," I murmur and put the brush down. I clean out her hooves, put my tack-box away, and get her lead-rope. I hook it to her halter, free her from the crossties and lead her out of the barn. "C'mon baby, it's snack time," I say and pat her neck. "You guys stay there, I'll be right back!" I call to them, leading my horse to the pastures. I watch them nod, and turn back to the land in front of me. I lead Fancy over to the large pasture, unlock the gate and lead her inside. I take off her halter, and hug her tightly. "You're such a good girl," I say into her mane and let her go. Fancy nudges me gently, than turns and runs to join the others.
"Like I said, the bond you have with your friend is impressive."
I turn around and smile at the elf at the gate. "I thought I said to stay at the barn," I chide. Legolas shrugs and waits while I walk over to him. I leave the pasture and lock the gate behind me. "How long have you known the mare?" he asks, glancing back at her. "Almost two years. When I was in Middle Earth I was afraid that I'd never see her again." We walk for a little while in silence. "When I came home, I was afraid that I'd never see you guys again. Until today I was convinced that it was all just a dream."
"Why would you say that?" the elf asks. I wrap my arms around myself. "When I woke up, all of my old injuries from the fall were back. The cuts, bruises, small fractures. It was as though Elrond had never healed me at all. I went back to the spot where I fell and found some stains of blood from my head wound. My parents said that my mind just created you and the dream because of the trauma it went through," I explain in a solemn voice.
"But we are here, and we are real." I nod and have to restrain myself from frowning. I wish they could've been here sooner. It would've saved me a lot of trouble and pain. I wouldn't have had to spend those three hellish weeks in the hospital being told I was crazy. I wouldn't have felt so alone.
"Siren?"
I snap out of my dark thoughts and smile. "Sorry. I guess I zoned out on you. C'mon, let's get the others and go to my home." ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I walk up the steps to my house and open the door.
"MOM! I'M HOME!" I shout.
I don't hear a response and sigh with relief. My sisters are at dance class, so my parents must be picking them up at the moment. Thank God for small favors. "No one's home. Good. Let's find a place for you to stay." I walk up the stairs and head for my room. Where am I going to house three elves and a human guy? I open my bedroom door and step inside. The others follow and Astaider closes the door behind her.
"You can take my room. I'll sleep downstairs on the couch. My mom won't ask questions seeing as how I sleep there sometimes anyway." Avarier opens his mouth to argue, but I cut him off. "It'll have to do for now. And we'll have to get you some different clothes. Ladies, you're thinner than I am, so I'll get some of my sisters' clothes. Avarier, Legolas, you'll have to make do with my dad's. Stay here while I go get them."
I walk into Kelsey's room and grab a pair of sweats and a t-shirt. I walk into my dad's room and grab a pair of baggy sweats and care-worn t- shirts. I walk back into my room and close the door behind me. "Here, wear these. They're not very flashy, but they're comfortable." I pull out a pair of my own PJ's and start walking to the door.
"Siren, these are leggings!" Hodoer shrieks. I smile and shrug. "Welcome to America," I say and leave for the bathroom.
I lock the bathroom door and remove my shirt. I wince at the sharp pain in my side and look down. The flesh there is tender and bruised terribly. I've definitely broken something. I slip on a sleeveless tank top, and replace my jeans with sweats. Once I'm changed, I turn on the water and clean the dirt off of my hands, arms, and face. "Much better," I sigh and walk back to my bedroom. "IS EVERYONE DECENT?" I shout. I hear a chorus of 'yes' and walk inside. Avarier and Legolas look great, and Astaider and Hodoer look happy.
"Wearing male clothing feels liberating!" the blonde exclaims. Hey, she might just end up being a bra-burning feminist, fighting against male oppression. Cool.
I pat her head and smile. "You're learning quickly young grasshopper." I flop onto my bed, and look over at Legolas. "So, how did you guys get here?" I ask tiredly. I'm feeling exhausted and find it hard to keep my eyes open. Legolas looks at me for a moment. "Rest. We'll discuss it later." I frown and force my eyes open. "No, you can tell me now." "Siren, don't argue with us. We can see that you're tired. Rest little mortal. We'll speak later," Hodoer soothes. I pout but consent. My eyes close, and I feel myself being lulled to sleep.
"When do we tell her? How do we tell her?"
"Later. Let her rest now."
"What happened when she left our realm, Legolas? She seems...different."
"We'll all talk later."
Yeah. Later. Soon the voices fade, and darkness covers all. But it's when I sleep that the dreams come. The dreams of being alone and locked in that hospital.
Bound at every limb by my shackles of fear
Sealed with lies through so many tears
Lost from within, pursuing the end
I fight for the chance to be lied to again
"Mom, I'm telling you the truth! I did meet them!"
"Siren, it's not possible. You were here the entire time. Honey, it's just a dream your mind made up to cope with the trauma you went through. You have to accept it!"
I sat on the hospital bed, looking at my parents in frustration. They'll never believe me! "I won't accept it! I met the elves! I was in Middle Earth! I fell in love with Avarier!" I shouted for the millionth time. My mom looked close to tears and turned away. My dad looked torn, unsure of what to say.
"Siren, your mom and I came to visit you every day. You never left this room. You were never in Middle Earth. It's all a fictional story, remember? FICTION. It was all just a dream, nothing more!"
"Than I wish I was still dreaming!"
My father looked shocked. My mom burst into tears, her shoulders shaking. "Mom---" "Siren, don't. Just don't," my dad muttered and moved to console her. Someone knocked on the door and my doctor walked in. "She's still in denial?" My dad nodded, his arms around my mom. The doc sighed and looked at me. "Siren, do you truly believe you were at that place?" I nodded. He studied me for a moment than turned to my parents. "I'd like to have her admitted. Physically she's healing splendidly. It's her mental health that concerns me at this point."
My eyes widened. "You can't be serious! I'm not gonna be sent to some loony bin!" They ignored me and continued talking. "Mom, please! Don't do this! I'm not crazy!" I pleaded, tears coming to my eyes. The doctor nodded and left the room. "Dad, you can't let them do this. I'm not crazy, I know I'm not!" A moment later the doctor returned with two orderlies, one of them carrying a syringe. "Oh fuck no," I muttered and backed away. "Don't even think about it. I'm not going to the nut house. Not a fucking chance."
"Just accept that it was all a dream."
I shook my head. "I won't lie. I was there!" The doc nodded to the nurses, and they advanced towards me. "Stay away from me," I said, backing up. Feeling my pulse quicken from the adrenaline, I made a dash for the door. The doc wrapped an arm across my chest and held me against him. "Let go you demented fucker!" I shouted, struggling. "Siren, stop!" my dad shouted. Yeah, right. The nurses came towards me, the syringe prepped and ready. "Don't you fucking touch me!" I shrieked and kicked out. I got one nurse in the shin, but the other took the needle and quickly jabbed my arm. I yelped and pulled back but it was too late. The sedative was already in my system.
Despite the sedative I continued to struggle. "Legolas! Hodoer! Astaider! Avarier!" I fought against the doctor's strong hold, my movements becoming sluggish. "Get off of me, you son of a bitch!"
Soon struggling became pointless. My limbs were going slack, and my knees were becoming weak. "What...what did you do?" The doctor picked me up and laid me down on the stretcher. "Everything is going to be fine, Siren," he said gently. My vision began to blur. "What did you do to me?" I asked in a small voice. Than the world went black once more.
You will never be strong enough
You will never be good enough
You were never conceived in love
You will not rise above
I was in the 'solitary room' for bad behavior. I had told my roommate about my adventure in Middle Earth, and the nurses got wind of it. I paced sterile room, my anger and frustration building. It wasn't fair. I didn't deserve this! "Legolas, Avarier, Hodoer, Astaider...where are you?" I whispered and leaned against the wall. "Please don't leave me alone here." I slid down the wall and onto the ground, gathering my knees to my chest. This place was hell, and I hated it. "Avarier..."
They'll never see
I'll never be
I'll struggle on and on and feed this hunger
Burning deep inside of me
"So you have accepted that it was all a dream?"
"Yes," I answered in a hollow tone. The doctor in front of me smiled happily, as did my parents. My mom hugged me tightly, kissing my forehead. "I'm so glad you're okay. You had us all so worried with your ranting and your behavior. I'm so glad you're back." I hugged her back but didn't smile. "Yeah," I muttered, "me too."
After we got home, I slipped off and into the woods. I followed the same path I had taken, and found the ledge. I knelt down and brushed some dead leaves away from the root. It was broken, mangled. Standing up, I started to climb down. Once I reached the bottom, I got on my knees and thought back to the fall. I had hit my head. I brushed the orange and brown leaves away from the ground, and looked at the rocks underneath. "C'mon guys, I know you're real..." I brushed a few more leaves away and felt my breath catch in my throat.
A large pile of rocks lay on the ground, stained crimson. I let out a small whimper and touched the cold stone. I picked up one of the rocks and sat back on my haunches. "No..." I traced the rough surface, feeling tears threatening to fall. "It was all a dream."
But through my tears breaks a binding light
Birthing a dawn to this endless night
Arms outstretched, awaiting me
An open embrace upon a bleeding tree
Letting out a sob, I dropped the rock and buried my face in my hands. I leaned forward, supporting myself on my forearms. I allowed myself this time to cry, to grieve for friends that never existed. A love that would haunt me, and yet was never real.
None of it was ever real.
I gasp as my eyes fly open. I'm back in my room, on my bed. I sit up and look around. Hodoer and Astaider are sleeping on either side of me. Where are Avarier and Legolas? I slip out of the bed, and walk into the room connected to mine. I smile softly at the sight. Avarier is stretched out on the love seat, and Legolas is sitting on the one across from him. I reach out and touch Avarier's face gently. He sighs in his sleep and leans into my touch.
"Siren?"
I look over and see Legolas looking at me worriedly. "Are you alright?" he asks. I smile slightly and nod. "Yeah, I'm fine. I'm just glad you're all here." He frowns a little but accepts my answer. Letting out a sigh I walk back into my bedroom and get back in the bed. I curl up between Hodoer and Astaider, and close my eyes.
My friends are here now.
Rest in me and I'll comfort you
I have lived and I died for you
Abide in me and I vow to you
I will never forsake you
2 Be Continued
Author's Notes-
Sigh. Hey guys. I broke my rib and tore up my knee, so I'm not a happy camper at the moment. Please forgive me.
Mellon- I couldn't just let 'Bleed for Me' end like that without a sequel! Besides, I was always curious about them coming to our world. Insanity is bound to happen.
Truffles- Okay, I'll keep writing, don't worry, lol.
Seren- I'm glad you're so happy! ^_^
Lady Galadriel- Everything will be explained in the next chapter.
Nayeli- I love your pen name. Very pretty. I'm glad you like it! ^_^
Aislin- Because of the sprained knee, I won't be able to ride my horse for a month. *cries* I'm so upset about it. I tried riding English for a year, but I can't post for the life of me, lol. I love western. The saddle is a little heavy, but it's really comfortable. And the horn is nice to hold on to during trail rides. Ah, my computer was being a brat too. This whole week has been bratty. DAMN WEEK!
Pyro she-devil- *munches on the cookie dough and shares with everyone* Thanks for the cookie dough! I'll be updating again soon!
Princess of the leaves- Love this pen name too. I like running in circles. *runs around in circles* ^_^
LalaithoftheBruinen- I'm almost done with the next chapter of 'Back Again'. I've been so freakin' busy with school, riding, and hurting my knee. Please forgive me!
Alina- Extreme? Possibly. I don't know, it just popped into my head. *gets dragged off to the nut house* HEY! I'M NOT CRAZY! Okay, that's a lie. But I'm crazy in a good way!!!
TriggerHappyElfling- Yes, elves! Always interrupting me----
Legolas: Siren?
Me: Damn it Legolas, you did it again! .
Legolas: Um, right. Frodo dropped the 'One Ring' in the toilet again.
Me: ...*takes deep, calming breaths* You're all going to be the death of me, I swear.
Legolas: Sorry. ^_^;;;
Me: Oh just shut up. -.-;;; Those lyrics are 'Lies' by Evanescence.