Chapter 2 Unexpected Meetings

Wesley rose in the blink of an eye.

"Easy, Easy. I won't hurt you," came a voice that Wesley perceived had a gentle British accent. After recovering from his initial surprise Wesley realized the man was speaking English. "What's your name?"

"Wesley"

"Bilbo Baggins at your service, young Wesley," the creature replied. "Judging by your voice and your height, you are a young human, are you not?"

"Yes," Wesley replied, still trying to figure out what sort of creature Bilbo might be.

"What business brings you to Imladris?" The question caught Wes off guard and he stumbled through his mind for an answer.

"Um . . . my friend brought me here with him," he replied vaguely. Even in the darkness, Wes could tell Bilbo was pleased with the answer.

"If that is so, you should have gone to bed long ago, for Elrond will desire an early start to the council in the morning. I can't say I don't see what brought you out here, though," Bilbo chuckled. "The stars of Elbereth are glorious in Rivendell." Wesley looked up and indeed saw the stars shimmering like diamonds in the dark sea of space. For a moment, he thought he was back on the Enterprise, gazing off the viewscreen of ten-forward, but then he felt a breeze and returned from the vision.

"Come, lad. The dawn will be upon us soon an you need your rest." Bilbo took Wes' hand and led him off to what Wes considered the main lodge. Before a fire sat a figure with long black hair and warm eyes. He gazed into the flames, lost in thought. It seemed to Wes that, although he looked quite young, there was a sense of great wisdom about him. Also, there was much suffering reflected in his eyes, suffering that could age someone well beyond their time. It was only after a few moments that Wesley was conscious that he was watching him.

"You should be asleep, young Wesley," he said in a voice that seemed to blend with the song that Wes had become accustomed to since his arrival. "Your friend already awaits you in your quarters. Bilbo will escourt you there." The young starfleet officer followed the short being without many words, for he had become quite tired. Tehy came to a crystal white room with two large beds.

"Goodnight, Wesley," Bilbo bade him. "I'll see you in the morning."

No sooner had Bilbo left, than Wesley plopped on the bed and shut his eyes. Then he felt a splash of frigid water over his body.

"Hello, Wes," called a familiar voice. "Did you miss me?"