Acorn
Into the woods you go again
you have to every now and then.
Into the woods, no telling when,
be ready for the journey.
~Into the Woods~
Bilbo sprinted through the dark forest, twigs and branches assaulting his face, heart racing, breath coming out in pants and chest burning. Around him the forest echoed with howls of Wargs. They had been ambushed by Azog and his Pack on their way to a house for refugee, and he got separated from the Company. Now he was alone, running for his life.
The Carrier stumbled over a fallen branch, he managed to get himself upright and kept running, suddenly two Wargs burst out of the trees and bushes and blocked Bilbo's path, the Carrier gave a startled yelp and slide to a stop; quickly he backed away only to stop when he heard low growls. He looked over his shoulder, and his eyes widen when he sees two more Wargs this time with riders. More Orcs and Wargs emerged from the trees and bushes.
He was surrounded.
Quickly he took out Sting, the blade glowing blue.
"S-Stay a-away!"
The Orcs laughed, one urged his Warg closer, Bilbo gulped but stood his ground.
"Nadal"
The Orc stopped, and Bilbo watched as two of the Riders parted for Azog and his white Warg. The pale Orc moved toward Bilbo, who was now trembling but still stayed his ground. Azog grinned, amused and stopped his Warg just a few feet away from the Carrier, he leaned forward and sniffed.
"Omega" he purred in Common tongue.
The Orcs murmured excitedly to each other, Bilbo glanced at them nervously before he turned his attention to Azog who had started to dismount, a look in the Orc's eyes that Bilbo recognized. It was the same look the Breeders in Hobbiton had when they had kidnapped him for the First Tasting.
"Nonononononono!"
A sudden battle cry echoed through the forest and Dwalin burst through, axes swinging, he fought through the startled Orcs and Wargs until he was standing protectively in front of Bilbo. The Alpha snarled at the Orcs.
Azog snarled back, "Vras Shakutarbik" he ordered and the Orcs charged.
"Stay close" Dwalin said before swinging his axes at one of the Wargs that got close.
Bilbo nodded before thrust his sword forward and got an Orc in the gut, another Orc quickly took its place, soon Bilbo was fighting off Orc after Orc; the warmth at his back and the familiar battle cries of Dwalin was a comfort….and then the warmth was gone.
"Dwalin!"
~.~
Dwalin hits the ground hard, and his axes slip from his hands, he rolled to his side dodging Azog's mace. Azog snarled swung his mace again, this time hitting the Dwarf in the side as Dwalin tried to get to his feet, and sending him flying. The Alpha's body hits the ground once more, but this time he doesn't get back up.
"Dwalin!"
Suddenly the Omega was between the fallen Dwarf and Orc, Azog grinned, lust coursing through him as he took steps forward. He was going enjoy taking this little Omega, taking him away from Oakenshield. Maybe he'll even breed him.
Suddenly there is a loud roar that had all the Orcs, even Azog, freezing in fear.
Then it burst through.
A large ferocious bear, with fangs bared, Bilbo watched in awe as the beast brawled through Azog and his Orcs, seemingly unfazed by their weapons.
"Retreat" Azog snarled as he mounted his Warg.
With another snarl, the Pale Orc urged his Warg into the thicket, with what was left of his party behind him. Leaving Bilbo with the bear, dead Orcs, and an unconscious Dwalin.
Huffing from the battle, the bear turned to him, and the Carrier squeaked. Raising his sword when the beast started toward him, "S-Stay back" he warned.
The bear, to Bilbo's surprise, stopped. Head titled, nose twitching, behind the Carrier; Dwalin did not stir. The bear suddenly whined and flopped down onto the ground, Bilbo stared, bewildered. His sword lowering slightly as he watched the bear scoot on its belly toward him, making soft sounds. Still unsure, Bilbo settled his sword to his side, and cautiously reached out.
The fur was thick and softer than expected, the bear making almost purring sounds as the Carrier ran his fingers through.
"Thank you" Bilbo then said, "for saving us"
The bear titled its head up to lick at his fingers, making the Carrier giggle, before demanding his ears be scratched. Bilbo does so for a few moments, before turning his attention to Dwalin, he kneeled down and tried to wake the Dwarf.
"Dwalin" he said firmly shaking the Dwarf, "Dwalin!"
Bilbo scrambled back, and the bear growled when Dwalin suddenly shot up with a loud cry, fists swinging. Realizing there was no danger, he looked around until he finally spotted Bilbo who was giving him a weary look, along with the bear.
"No, Dwalin!" Bilbo said when the Dwarf picked up his fallen axes with a very much familiar glint in his eyes.
Dwalin stopped and looked at the Carrier.
"It saved us" Bilbo explained as he stood and made his way over to the bear that was glaring at the Dwarf.
Dwalin raised a brow, but sheathed his axes, and took in his surroundings. Keeping an eye on the bear Bilbo was currently petting.
"We need to find shelter" the Alpha then said.
"But the others—"
"I'm sure they themselves have found shelter, we can look for them in the morning, right now it's too dangerous"
Bilbo nodded, "You wouldn't happen to know where we can find shelter?" he then asked the bear, only half-serious, after all it was just a bear. Perhaps more intelligent than most, but still just a bear.
So he and Dwalin were surprised when the bear suddenly moved back and then right before their very eyes, the bear was suddenly a man.
"Indeed I do, little Bunny"
A very big man.
~.~
"I will not ask you again, Tharkûn, stand aside!" Thorin growled.
"You can growl, snarl and glare all you want Thorin Oakenshield, You shall not pass" Gandalf said sternly from where he stood in front of the large door.
Upon learning that they had lost their Burglar and Dwalin, it had taken all Gandalf had to keep the Company from turning back, and searching for their members regardless of the Orc pack pursuing them. And now they were in a house safe from the Azog and his party, but it was still taking all of his power to keep them inside.
"Bilbo is out there" Kili spoke up, hoping the wizard would see reason.
"As is Dwalin" Gandalf nodded, "he will protect Bilbo"
"That's if he finds him first and not Azog" Gloin pointed out.
The Carrier may be able to handle a sword, but even he couldn't stand the might of an Orc pack.
"You must have faith that he has" said Gandalf.
Thorin cursed in Khuzdul, Gandalf was not upset, instead his gaze softened, "I am worried as well" he said.
Thorin looked at him, then sighed in defeat before looking at his Company who waited for his decision.
"We will rest, and in the morning we will search for them"
"But Uncle—"
Everyone became silent at the sound of another door opening, weapons drawn and at the ready; the Company waited with anticipation while Gandalf leaned against his staff with a knowing gaze as heavy footsteps approached.
It was a….man, a very big man, bigger than Gandalf. He was naked save for brown dirty trousers, a mane of greyish brown hair that grew as a ridge down the length of his back, a forked beard and dark brown eyes that told of something that wasn't all together human. On his left wrist was a shackle that jingled as he came toward them, with Bilbo in his arms and Dwalin walking by his side.
"Bilbo! Dwalin! You're alright!"
Fear over the sudden appearance of the large man forgotten, Ori rushed over to his friend with Bifur, Bofur and the rest of the Company not too far behind.
"I'm fine" Bilbo reassured Ori, Bofur, and Bifur, as he was set down, aware of the rest of the Alphas keeping a distance.
"We thought Azog had gotten to the two of you" Balin said after hugging his brother, relieved that he was safe.
"Aye, for a moment he did, but we had some….help" Dwalin then said looking up at the big man.
The big man was staring at the Company of Dwarves with an unreadable expression before he huffed and turned his attention to Gandalf.
"Who are you?" he rumbled to the wizard.
"I'm Gandalf" Gandalf introduced himself, "Gandalf the Grey, and thank you Beorn for helping our friends"
The one called Beorn grunted, then looked over at Thorin, who stared back. Grunting again, he then looked down at Bilbo and his hard gaze softened, "You may stay here to rest" he then addressed to everyone.
After giving everyone blankets and pillows, Bilbo and Ori getting more so than the others, Beorn left his house; warning them not come out despite what they may hear for the rest of the night. Gandalf then watched as Bifur ushered Bilbo over to the corner where the Alphas had made a nest out of the pillows and blankets; which were not small and made for very comfortable lying in. Bilbo was in the middle, naturally with Ori, while the Alphas settled down in a close circle.
With all their Company together, and safe, it doesn't take long for everyone to fall asleep.
~.~
It was full morning when Bilbo awoke, sitting cross-legged next to him, playing with the yellow chirping chicks that had curiously ventured into the nest at some point, was Gandalf.
"Ah, morning!" Gandalf greeted when he saw that the Carrier was awake, "how do you feel my boy?"
"Fine" Bilbo said, staring at one of the chicks that had popped its head out of the wizard's beard, blinking he then looked around, "where is everyone?"
"Out on the veranda last time I looked" Gandalf answered, "oh my!"
One of the chicks had made their way into the wizard's sleeves, and quickly the others were following. Bilbo thought the wizard looked oddly pleased about suddenly becoming a chicken coop. Eventual, Bilbo left Gandalf to his chicks and made his way out to the veranda, there he found most of the Dwarves except for Thorin, Fili, Kili, Ori, and Dwalin.
"Ori went off to sketch some of the bees that have been flying about, while the others went down to the pond to wash up" Balin informed him when Bilbo asked, and upon closer look, the Carrier realized that the other Alphas were much cleaner.
"Oh" Bilbo then said before his attention was turned to Bifur who was holding out a plate of food, "not at the moment thank you" Bilbo then said, "which way to the pond?"
After being pointed into the right direction, the Carrier started walking down the path, admiring the many different flowers as he went. By the time he arrived at the lake, a few bunnies and bees were following him, somewhat bemused by it, Bilbo looked for the Alphas.
He found all four of them waist deep in the water, washing away yesterday's dirt and filth, Bilbo stood there and watched. He's never actually seen a naked, or half-naked Alpha, the Breeders have been dressed during the First Tasting, merely pulling out cocks from their trousers to abuse the Carrier's mouth with.
Unlike their Hobbit counter-parts, who were round, soft, and hairless. The four Dwarves were covered in hair and hard muscles, Dwalin and Thorin had scars from past battles, Fili and Kili too had scars. But not as numerous as their Uncle and cousin, and somehow it was not surprising that Dwalin had more tattoos then just on his arms and bald head. Thorin too had a tattoo, runes that started from his right pectoral and down to his rib cage. His body was bruised from his battle with Azog and Bilbo could see the wound that Oin had to stitch up. Bilbo was amazed that the leader was moving as easily as he was. And while he didn't see any on Fili and Kili, Bilbo figured they could have tattoos on their legs or hips.
"Very handsome, aren't they?"
Bilbo jumped, and Ori quickly scrambled back when the other Omega whirled around, dagger stabbing the space he had once stood. Around him the bees and bunnies startled a bit.
"Sorry!" Bilbo apologized, horrified.
"It's fine" Ori reassured with a smile, "you would think by now I would know better than to startle you"
Somehow that didn't make Bilbo feel any better, it must have showed on his face because Ori turned their attention back to the Alphas in the pond. Fili and Kili were now wrestling with each other, Dwalin and Thorin ignoring them.
"Handsome" the Dwarf continued on from his earlier comment, "strong, and status despite no longer having the wealth of Erebor. What more could an Omega want in an Alpha"
"I never wanted one to begin with" Bilbo said softly as he watched the four Dwarves.
He's not sure he ever will.
Ori's eyes is knowing and sad, a sudden squeak had both the Carriers looking back at the pond. The Alphas had finally noticed them, and Fili and Kili had ducked further into the water until they covered up to the chin, faces red. Dwalin and Thorin had remained upright, though their cheeks were a slight pink and they look vaguely uncomfortable. Bilbo didn't know why, it wasn't like they could see any dangly bits. Ori merely grinned at the Alphas, it was different from the ones Bilbo was used to seeing, kind of naughty looking; and it made Fili and Kili go redder and the older Alphas fidget a bit.
"Master Baggins, Master Ori" Thorin nervously cleared his throat, "how can we…..did you need something?"
"Oh!" Bilbo suddenly remembered, "yes, I wanted to thank Dwalin, for saving me last night"
Despite being wet and naked in front of two Omegas, Dwalin's puffed up in Alpha pride at protecting one of the Company's Omega. It looked like Bilbo wanted to say more, but Ori gently lead his friend away, saving the Alphas from anymore awkwardness.
With bees and bunnies following them, Ori lead Bilbo back to the veranda, the other Alphas were still there; expressions a mixture of bemusement and amused when they saw the bees and bunnies. Bifur then got up, held out his hand to Bilbo and waited. Bilbo blinked, and curious he placed his hand in the Dwarf's, after which he was lead to the veranda, sat down and given the plate of food he had declined earlier.
"Eat" Bifur signed.
Bilbo stared down at it, surprised that they could find plates their size.
"Not the mugs though" he thought glancing at said mug, the Dwarves didn't seem to mind. Bilbo had a feeling there was ale inside.
By the time he was finished eating, Dwalin, Thorin, Fili and Kili had returned. The young Alphas blushing upon seeing the two Omegas; Beorn also returned. Big axe slung over his shoulder, and made the Dwarven Alphas nervous the closer he came.
Bilbo, oddly enough, was not nervous or even afraid.
Perhaps it's because Beorn had saved him and Dwalin, deep rumbling voice kind and gentle as he told them about his home where they could take shelter until the morning, hands big and warm as he picked up and carried the Carrier to the house and essentially the rest of the Company. Or maybe it was his scent, Pine Trees and sunlight.
Whatever the reason for it, it made Bilbo smile up at the large man who squatted down before him.
"Good morning little Bunny" Beorn said, eyes warm, above a bee rested on top of the shape shifter's head "sleep well?"
"Yes, thank you for letting us stay the night, were you chopping wood?"
Beorn nodded, hand reaching down to pet the bunnies that had hopped happily up to him, "It will cold be tonight"
Sitting between his brother and Bombur, Kili watched and listened to Bilbo talk to Beorn without a hint of fear or nervousness, a feeling of jealousy washed over him. How was it that this big scary looking….person, could do what it took months for them? Mahal, Bilbo still gave them weary looks on a occasion. Granted he was doing better, but still it took months to get to the point where Bilbo didn't want to stab them on principle.
"It's the scent mostly" Bombur suddenly said, guessing the expression on the young Prince's face correctly, voice quiet.
"What do you mean?" Kili asked curious.
"You have to understand, Beorn saved Bilbo from the Orcs, offered him shelter and such, that alone gives our Omega little reason to fear him. However I think the most defining reason is because Beorn doesn't smell like an Alpha, and therefore not a threat."
"Oh"
It made sense, Beorn didn't smell anything like an Alpha, granted he knew nothing about shape shifters, for all he knew Beorn was an Alpha.
"Still don't like it" Kili then said, expression very close to pouting.
Bombur chuckled, "Don't worry, I don't think our Host is going to whisk Bilbo away"
Later, Beorn trailed behind Ori and Bilbo as the two explored the outside of his home, sensitive ears picking up the low conversation between them. The one called Ori is teaching the little Bunny about being an Omega, he's curious as to why, but doesn't ask. As long as the little Bunny was safe, he was content, even if there were Dwarves walking about his house.
~.~
Dinner was something Bilbo and the other Dwarves was one they would be sure to never to forget, never have they seen animals do what Beorn's animals did. The food was delicious of course, and under the flickering light, the Company listened as their host told them about the dangerous forest of Mirkwood. It made Bilbo nervous as he had overheard Thorin, Balin and Gandalf talking about how they needed to cut through the forest if they wanted to make good time.
After dinner, Oin dragged a grumbling Thorin to the side to check on his injures, while everyone else settled down to sleep, from his chair Beorn watched them.
"Beorn"
Beorn looked down to see Bilbo standing there, head slightly tilted, he leaned down and picked up the Carrier.
"Yes, little Bunny?" he asked once Bilbo was settled comfortable on his knee.
"Erm, I was wondering" Bilbo began nervously, "about your shackle"
Beorn goes very still, scent changing, and some of the Dwarves look at him. On his knee, for the first time since meeting the shape shifter, Bilbo became nervous.
"I'm sorry" Bilbo started, "I didn't mean—that was—"
"Sssh" Beorn said, fingers gently caressing the stuttering Carrier's cheek, "I know you meant no harm" he reassured.
Around them the Company, even Gandalf, watched them. Ready to interfere if it look like things were going to become….tense.
"My people, were the first to live here on the mountains" Beorn began, "we were happy, until Azog and his Orcs came"
After he finished his story of slavery and death, Bilbo was silent, and his scent had changed; it smelt almost sour. Wanting to get rid of the smell, and have the little Bunny happy again, Beorn told of happier times. Rumbling voice filling the quiet room, telling story after story until Bilbo was curled up against his stomach, eyes heavy with sleep.
"I'll take him" said Glóin coming up to Beorn, hands held out patiently.
Beorn stared down at him, before, very gently, he lowered Bilbo down to Glóin. In another's arms, Bilbo blinked with sleepy eyes at Glóin who smiled, and started making his way over to the Ri brothers.
"No" Bilbo yawned when he realized where he was being taken, "want Dwalin"
Glóin blinked in surprised at the request, but did go over to where Dwalin had settled down to sleep.
"He wanted to be with you" Glóin explained when the big Alpha looked questioningly at him.
Dwalin's eyes widen in surprise, but let Glóin settle Bilbo down next to him, Ori came over with Bilbo's blankets and such. Bilbo smiled up at the young Dwarf as he took his things and lay down next to Dwalin, cuddling up with him, Dwalin rumbled happily.
~.~
Despite Oin's grumblings of stubborn Alphas, Thorin had the Company packing up the supplies Beorn gave them, and after one last lunch with Beorn they were ready to face Mirkwood.
"Take care of the little Bunny" Beorn told Gandalf and Thorin.
Although his posture and voice was passive, the threat was very much clear.
"We will do our best" Gandalf said before he went about mounting his horse.
Beorn said goodbye to Bilbo, and watched as the Company rode off.
The Company reached the eaves of Mirkwood by the afternoon of the next day, which they learn that Gandalf had to leave them.
"You can't leave!" Bilbo insisted.
"I would not do this unless I had too" Gandalf apologized.
Bilbo frowned and nervously tugged on his sleeves, "Are you afraid of being alone with them?" Gandalf asked quietly, with all that he had seen between Bilbo and the Alphas he doubted it. And he was proven right when Bilbo shook his head.
"No" the Carrier said, "I'm almost sure I'll be okay with them, but" Bilbo glanced over at the edge of the forest.
"It will be alright" said the wizard, running his fingers through the curls, knowing it calmed the Carrier, "just keep to the path, don't go near the water, and most importantly stay together"
After a deep sigh, Bilbo nodded. Gandalf smiled, all though it was a bit sad.
It seems he was always leaving Bilbo behind.
"Don't enter the mountain without me"
And with that, Gandalf was gone.
"Let's go" Thorin then said after moment, "we have a lot of ground to cover"
They walk in a single file; the path itself was narrow and wound in and out among the tree trunks. After a black squirrel scurried by and startled everyone, Bilbo had stayed close, clenching the back of Kili's coat. The Alpha gave him a reassuring smile over his shoulder, to which the Carrier returned. They walked and walked, following the path, and Bilbo could not get rid of the sense that they were being watched by someone….or something.
In a desperate attempt to think of anything but the forest, Bilbo quietly asked Kili about his mother, possibly knowing what the Carrier was doing, the Alpha talked. Telling tale after tale, in return Bilbo told about his parents, the rest of the Company listening.
Nights however, were not for stories, nights were pitch-dark, so dark that not even Dwarven eyes could see through. Nights were eyes, gleaming eyes, seemingly of different colors. Staring, and then fading into the dark, Bilbo really hoped it was the squirrels. They tried to light a fire once.
They never did again.
They kept going for what felt like forever, and while the Dwarves were quietly complaining about being hungry because they had to preserve their food supply, Bilbo, who was use to not eating regular meals despite the Company's best efforts; was fine.
The deeper they going into the forest, the thicker the air gets, and Bilbo began to notice a change of mood; the Company had gone quiet and seemed….confused for a lack of better words. And when Bombur fell in a stream and was now asleep and had to be carried, the Company became quiet, confused and grumpy, even Ori. Bilbo made sure to keep his distance.
"What's wrong?"
The sound of Thorin's voice had Bilbo looking away from two black squirrels staring back at him, to the leader.
"We've lost the path" said Nori.
Thorin ordered them to find the path again, they never find it. Night comes again, and again. And Bilbo thinks that maybe it's on the fifth day that the Company's temper finally explode over where was East. He ignored them as he tried to think.
"Sun, sun, we need to find the sun, oh!"
Quickly, Bilbo climbed up the nearest tree, kept going until his head popped out of the treetops, he instinctively breaths in the clear air, around him blue butterflies fly around him. One landed on his nose causing him to go cross-eyed and laugh. The sun is setting and Bilbo looked for anything that will tell him where they were, he sees a lake.
"I see it!" he called down below, "there's a lake and a river, oh and the Lonely Mountain! I think we're almost there"
The Carrier's brows furrowed when he doesn't get a reply, Noise had his head turning back to the trees just in time to see something approaching. Gulping, Bilbo climbed down, when his feet touched the ground, the Dwarves are gone.
"Ori? Bifur? Bofur? Thorin? Anyone" he called, shivering when his voice echoed.
He looked around in hope of knowing where they could have gone and hoped they hadn't abandon him, he noticed big, thick spider-webs, having a bad feeling and with a tight grip on Sting's handle. He followed the trail of webs. It isn't long before he came upon the nest, familiar shaped cocoons hanging and very, very, very big spiders.
"Oh dear! Oh dear! Oh dear!" Bilbo thought pushing back a whimper as he crouched down behind a tree, "what do I do?"
He couldn't fight giant spiders, at least not on his own and so many, maybe he could distract them somehow. But then he wasn't sure he would be able to get all of the Dwarves free and away in time, and there was the issue of if there were more spiders then the four he could see now.
Suddenly, Bilbo yelped and his dagger was out and aim for whatever had touched him. A hand around his wrist stopped him, and the Carrier was staring at a very startled Elf.
The Elf was cloaked in green with long blonde hair that was almost white and blue eyes that were currently wide as he stared at the Carrier.
He also smelt of Alpha.
"O-oh, I'm t-terribly s-sorry!" Bilbo stuttered quietly, keeping the fact that the giant spiders could hear him in mind.
The Elf titled his head.
"Erm….perhaps you could let go" he then asked indicating to the hand that was still holding him.
"What are you doing here little Hobbit?" asked the Elf, still not letting go.
Bilbo really wanted him too.
A sudden noise had both Elf and Carrier looking back at the nest, there were more Elves, some were killing the Spiders while others were cutting down the cocoons. The cocoons land on the ground, and the Dwarves rip out of them yelling, cursing, and calling for Bilbo. Relieved, Bilbo forgot about the other Elf who finally let's go of him and made his way over to his Company.
"I'm here" Bilbo said as he approached.
The Company is very much relieved, the relief is quickly turned into anger and snarls, and Bilbo is then being grabbed and placed into a tight circle formed by the weapon drawn Alphas with Ori.
The Elves that had saved the Company now had them surrounded and had their arrows aimed at them.
~.~
The Elves led the captured Company through the forest, over a bridge and through a gate, despite obviously being prisoners; though he and Ori were not bind like the others. Bilbo couldn't help looking around in amazement. The entire place seemed to be built of the tree roots in a subterranean cave, the walkway they were walking on were wooden and raised, and Bilbo could hear waterfalls and running rivers. The Elves and Company suddenly stopped, the blond Elf, obviously the leader. Said something in Sindarin and then Ori and Bilbo were separated and being led away from the now struggling Alphas, who the Elves were now pushing along a pathway.
"Where are you taking us?" Ori asked one the Elf guards leading them away, looking only a little bit nervous.
"To the baths" answered the Elf.
"And the others?"
The Elf glanced down at him, then at the other Elf, before looking back at them, "To the King" he then said.
Ori said nothing about that, and Bilbo remained silent beside him, very much confused and worried. When they finally get to the bath, both of the Carriers were greeted with hot moisture air, the next they were greeted with was a room of twisting branches and a series of springs being fed gushing hot water from the walls. Bilbo was very tempted to ask the Elven guards how this was done.
"Everything you need is over there" said one of the guards, pointing to a wooden bench where there was soaps, towels and everything else they would need to get clean, "an attendant will come in with a change of clothing, we will be stationed outside"
"Thank you" Bilbo said politely, while Ori bowed his head slight in acknowledgment.
Once the two left and were alone, they stared at the springs, "Well, best get clean" Ori then said and started to undress.
"Ori"
Ori looked at Bilbo, who obvious was trying to hide how nervous he was, and gave a soft smile, "Don't worry, we'll be fine"
"But why—"
"Despite our obvious dislike for each other, Elves and Dwarves would never treat an Omega with anything but respect. They won't hurt us, and I'm pretty sure they won't hurt the others, especially since they could have easily let the spiders eat them"
"…Oh"
"Come, I'll scrub your back"
As Bilbo undressed, Ori strength his resolve not to let Bilbo see his worry, while what he said about the Elves not hurting them was true. He also knew that the Elven King was mostly likely not going to let them go either. After the bath, to which both felt much better now that they were clean, and dressed in elven clothes that were surprisingly their size. Bilbo and Ori were then led to a very lovely room, and given food. Bilbo nibbled, it gave him something to do beside worry for the rest of the Company.
The room door opened, and the blond Elf from the woods came in, followed by another Elf. He was an Alpha, with long dark red hair and dark brown eyes; in his hands was a medium box. Behind him was another red-headed Elf, most likely Kin to the other red-haired Elf; she had murky green eyes, Bilbo recognized her as one of the Elves from the woods. Ori stood up from his seat and moved away from the table where they were having their meal, to the two. Bilbo followed.
"I'm sorry to disturb your meal" the blonde Elf said, "but I've brought one of our Healers to check for injures"
"That's very kind of you" Ori said with a little smile, "is something wrong?" he then asked when he noticed how the other Alpha stared at Bilbo who shifted nervously beside him, even the She-Elf was staring curiously at Bilbo, but Ori figured that was because she probably haven't ever seen an Hobbit before. The Alpha's gaze on the other hand, was very much intense and unreadable, and Ori didn't like that it was aimed at his friend.
The Healer merely blinked before he looked over at Ori, "It's been a long time since an Hobbit had entered these halls"
This surprised both Carriers, Bilbo more so, "….Hobbits live here?" Bilbo then asked.
"Had, briefly" the Healer corrected, and something shifted in the normally passive face.
The Healer, named Estelon, then asked them to sit on the bed before shooing the blonde Elf, named Legolas out the room. Leaving just the Healer and the other Elf.
"My name is Tauriel" introduced the She-Elf as she looked over Bilbo's now bare chest, "daughter of Estelon and Gersvinda"
His nose twitched, and his brow furrowed when he realized that he couldn't smell whether or not she was an Omega or Beta.
"Your.…your scent" Bilbo said after moment, curiosity getting the better of his near non-existent manners.
Tauriel titled her head as she gently took hold of Bilbo's right leg to check for bruises, broken bones and sprains, her body language showing that she had an idea of what he was trying to say.
"I can't….you….how….why—?"
Possibly taking pity on the bewildered Carrier, Tauriel finally looked up at Bilbo, "I have yet to blossom" she said.
"Are you not of age?" Ori blurted out from where Estelon was rubbing some kind of foul smelling cream on his bruised arm, the Dwarf then blushed and ducked his head when he realized how rude and invasive he had just been, "sorry" he said.
Estelon chuckled, and Tauriel smiled to show she was not offended, "I am of Elven age" she then answered.
As he told Estelon where he was from when the Healer asked, Bilbo picked up on the fact that she said "Elven" age.
~.~
It's only after Thorin have been dragged away, and all of the emotions the Dwarf had struck were locked away, does Thranduil stand from his throne and make his way down the throne steps. He goes down the path, turned left and down more steps until he came to the healing hall. He suddenly paused.
"I know you're there" he then said softly, "why do you linger in the shadows?"
After a moment, Estelon stepped out, "I was coming to report to you" he said with a slight bow of the head.
"And how are our guests?" the King asked.
"Tired, and slightly bruised, otherwise healthy as can be"
Thranduil nodded, "Legolas told me that one of the Omegas is a Hobbit" he then said, eyes going soft.
"Yes, his name is Bilbo Baggins" Estelon confirmed, "and he's….from Hobbiton"
"Like Gersvinda"
Estelon nodded again, eyes flickering with emotions.
"And is he—"
"I do not know" Estelon interrupted, and the King let him, "I did not, could not, ask. But it's possible, if nothing else, his lack of Hobbit weight is worrying and suspicious"
Thranduil hummed softly, "Very well" he then said.
He didn't explain further and Estelon didn't push, instead he answered more questions before he was dismissed.
"If you see Tauriel, tell I wish to speak with her"
No doubt to talk about the spiders, the Healer figured.
"Yes, my King"
~.~
When the door opened again, a King stepped into the room. The King was tall, dressed in elegant robes and a crown of autumn leaves upon his head, hair blonde and blue eyes that were cold as ice stared down at Ori and Bilbo. And his scent was pure Alpha.
"We need to trend carefully with him" Ori thought as the King stepped closer to them, specifically Bilbo.
Then to both Carrier's surprise, he kneeled before Bilbo, he held out his hands and waited patiently. Bilbo stared down at them in bewilderment, then his face lit up in realization. Watching the King's expression, Bilbo placed his hands into the Alpha's.
"Welcome, Omega Bilbo Baggins" Thranduil said, voice deep and surprisingly soft, "to my halls" then he kissed Bilbo's forehead in traditional greeting.
Though he knows it's an Elven greeting, Bilbo's cheeks still turned a light pink.
"I hope your stay so far has been pleasant" the King then said after he greeted Ori, and stood.
"It has" Ori confirmed, keeping his voice polite, "you have been most generous"
"Where are the others?" Bilbo then asked.
Thranduil stared at Bilbo, who squirmed nervously, but didn't look away. The Elf then moved over to sit down at the table where Ori and Bilbo had their meal hours ago.
"They are in my dungeon" the Elven King then said.
"What for?!" the Dwarf gasped, though he wasn't too surprise, while Bilbo's eyes widen
"I believe you know" Thranduil raised a brow at the Omega Dwarf.
Ori stared back, neither confirming nor denying any assumptions the King mostly likely guessed correctly. Instead he tried to think of some way to free the Alphas and escape from this place. Beside him, Bilbo let out a little distress whimper, drawing the Alpha King's attention to him, and once again those blue eyes soften.
"You are free to roam, and under the watch of a guard you may visit the others in the dungeons" Thranduil said after a moment.
And then he left.
Ori exhaled loudly once the door closed, he then looked at Bilbo who was staring around the room as though it was a prison, which wasn't too far off.
"Come on" he then said, "let's try and get some rest, and tomorrow we'll figure something out"
Further exploration of the room showed that there was another bedroom behind a wooden door in the corner to the left, neither wanted to be separated so they left the room behind the door alone and took the other one. Curled around each other, the two slept, wondering what tomorrow will bring.
~.~
Tomorrow brought a barely eaten breakfast and the two Carriers being escorted to the dungeons by Tauriel. Ori hurried to his brothers' cell when they arrived, and Bilbo followed. Tauriel stayed back to watch.
"Are you hurt?" Dori asked them, eyes looking them over.
Ori shook his head as he moved closer, the moment he did, Dori's hands went through the bars to cradle his face, standing beside his eldest brother; Nori watched as Bilbo came toward him without hesitation. He rumbled happily when the Carrier reached through the bars, one hand reaching for the Alpha's own, he took it and caressed the skin there with his thumb.
"Okay?" he asked.
Though he nodded, Bilbo didn't look to sure about it, Nori didn't mention it. Instead he lifted Bilbo's hand to his nose to scent before nuzzling where hand and wrist met to mark. Bilbo's cheeks turned a dark pink but didn't seem to mind. Once the elder Ri brothers were satisfied that their Carriers were unharmed, Bilbo and Ori went to the cell where Bifur and Bombur were, they assured the two Alphas they were fine and let themselves be scented and marked. When they moved over to Glóin and Oin cell they did the same thing, though Glóin grumbled about what they were wearing. The same with the next cell, and the next, until finally they came upon Thorin's cell.
After giving the Alpha his reassurance, Ori stepped back and let Bilbo come forward.
"Did you eat anything?" was the first thing Thorin asked as he reached through the bars to take Bilbo's hands, Bilbo jumped at his hands suddenly being grabbed, but didn't pull away.
"I mostly nibbled" Bilbo admitted, making a pleased sound that surprised him when one of Thorin's big hands came up to cup his cheek, "I wasn't very hungry"
"Try to eat more" Thorin said.
Bilbo nodded, feeling something in him sighing in relief now that he knew that the rest of the Company was fine. After Thorin scented and marked him, the two went to were Tauriel was waiting, who offered to show them around if they wanted to look. They accepted and after one last look back at the cells, the two followed the Elf away from the dungeon, Tauriel asking if they wanted to see the wine cellar first.
Ori knew that despite the Elven King giving them the freedom to roam, they were being closely watched and not just by Tauriel.
~.~
Cruel laughter echo in his ears, and crueler hands touched, hurt him. Eyes dark and gleaming with something he could never name but knew to fear stared down at him.
"Stop!" he begged, "please!"
They ignored him as they parted his legs.
"No! Ori! Bifur! Dori! Help me, please!"
"No one is coming for you" they laughed and sneered, "you're all ours, was always ours!"
Something hard pressed against the place he fought so hard to protect, tears rolled down his cheeks, and he was hit when he tried to kick away.
"Nori! Dwalin! Gandalf! No, let go! Let me go! Thorin!"
That hard, horrid thing, was shoved in.
Bilbo's eyes shot opened and he sucked in startled breathe, heart beating wildly in his chest. His green eyes glanced around the room, but he didn't see them, and he was most definitely clothed. Slowly he sat up, trying to calm his heart, curled up beside him; Ori slept undisturbed.
"It's okay" he thought to himself as he brought his knees up to his chest and shoved his face in them, "you're okay"
He mentally said it over and over again until his heart had calmed, however he couldn't sleep, afraid to go back to sleep. He also had a strong to desire to see the rest of the Company, to make sure they were still there. Quietly, as not to awake Ori, Bilbo got out of bed and slipped out the room. The guards stationed there, asked him if needed anything, he told them no and declined their offer to escort him to the dungeons.
Alone, Bilbo made his way to the dungeons…or tried to at least, he couldn't remember if he was supposed to go right or left after rounding the corner, and there was no one to be found to help him.
"Oh dear"
He considered going back, but decided against it, he wanted to see the Alphas. So he was going to see them.
He turned right.
About ten minute later, Bilbo stopped in a lit hall and sighed.
"I'm lost"
"It would seem so"
Bilbo eeped, he whirled around, dagger already in hand and the blade was already trying to make itself home in whoever had startled him. It turned out to be the Elven King, who easily grabbed hold of Bilbo's wrist to stop the Carrier from stabbing him.
"I-I-I'm s-so s-sorry!"
Thranduil stared at him, head slightly titled, before he released Bilbo's wrist.
"No harm done" he said as he stood from his kneeling position, "I did startle you after all"
Horrified for nearly stabbing a King and his host, Bilbo sheathed his dagger and looked everywhere but at the Elf. Thranduil didn't seem bothered by this.
"May I ask where you were trying to be?" he asked.
Bilbo hesitated in answering, he didn't know how the King would react if he told the Alpha he was going to the dungeon to see the rest of the Company. Not to mention he was alone.
"O-Oh, I-I c-couldn't s-sleep" Bilbo finally said, inwardly wincing at the stuttering.
Surprisingly, the King didn't get suspicious, instead he stared at Bilbo; who squirmed under the intense gaze. Finally, he shifted and….became smaller, for lack of better word. It made Bilbo less nervous.
"Would you like to join me for a late night tea?" Thranduil asked, voice gentle.
Shocked, Bilbo said, yes.
~.~
Thranduil's personal chambers were just as beautiful and elegant as his halls, and the tea was warm and exotic tasting.
"I was told that you came from Hobbiton" said the Elf King as he poured Bilbo a second cup.
"Yes, that's right" Bilbo nodded, "thank you" he then added.
Thranduil bowed his head in acknowledgement before pouring a second cup of his own.
"How is it? Hobbiton" the King then asked.
"Erm….green?"
Thranduil's lips twitched at the adorably unsure expression on the Omega's face.
"I'm well aware of the rolling hills beauty, having been told about them by a dear friend" Thranduil said kindly, he paused to take a sip of his tea, and gather his thoughts for the next part of the conversation, "I am also aware of certain….Traditions, Omega Traditions"
Bilbo's eyes widen and his cup slipped from his hand, cracking and spilling over the saucer and table. "O-Oh d-dear" the Omega stuttered, trembling hands moving to clean up the mess "I-I'm, s-so s-sorry I—"
Bilbo jumped when much larger hands covered his own, he looked and found ice-blue eyes boring into his own. They were old, warm, kind, and a little sad. Bilbo's racing heart slowed the more he stared into them.
"I did not mean to upset you" the King said, voice low and soft.
"H-how" Bilbo licked his lips, "how do you know about…that?"
Something changed in the Elf, body suddenly a little tight and his eyes much more sadder, then with a sound that Bilbo thought could be a sigh he told a tale.
"Long ago, an Elf saved a Hobbit from some rather….determined Dale Men. The Elf was an Alpha, and the Hobbit, an Omega"
Bilbo was sure his jaw dropped in disbelief.
A Hobbit, an Omega Hobbit! Had gone beyond the border before him.
"They fell in love. I met them during our Mereth-en-Gilith; the Feast of Starlight, I myself have only heard of Hobbits at the time and was curious. And despite my limited knowledge, I noticed that something was not quite right with the Omega's behavior. I inquired about it, and that's when I learned about the Tradition"
He didn't snarl, but it was a close thing, the memories still brought about a rage that he only held in battle with Orcs, along with a sadness and protectiveness that was in a way similar to when he looked at his son who had so much of his mother in him.
Bilbo suddenly said something, it was so soft, that the King's Elven ears couldn't pick it up, and he asked the Omega to repeat it.
"What happened to them?" Bilbo asked.
"They had children and lived happily in my halls then later in Dale for years," Thranduil answered, "then Smaug came"
Even though he knew it wasn't aimed at him, Bilbo still shivered when those eyes went hard and cold, and he pulled his hands out from beneath the larger ones. Shoulders hunched up and head down, making himself look smaller. Noticing, Thranduil stood, ignoring the flinch that resulted in it. He went over and kneeled down before Bilbo. Instinctively, the Alpha rumbled as once again he took hold of Bilbo's hands.
"Everything is alright" he said, thumbs caressing soft skin.
Bilbo nodded, and after a long pause, gave the King a shy smile. The spilled tea is finally cleaned up and they retire to comfortable chairs when Thranduil continued on with his story.
"The Omega perished in the fire, but her mate and children were able to make it here where I offered them home and shelter, and here they still remain. You have even met two of them"
Bilbo's brow furrowed as he thought about which Elves he had come across were the Alpha and child of the story. The only ones who he thought could be it were the Healer and the Captain of the guards Tauriel. When he told the King of his thought, Thranduil nodded.
"What was her name?" the Carrier then asked, "the Hobbit Omega"
"Her name was Gersvinda Sackville"
~.~
After their visit to the Alphas, which was supervised by Legolas this time; Bilbo shyly asked the Elf if he knew where Estelon was.
"Are you ill?" Legolas asked, eyes looking over both Omegas for any signs of illness or injury.
"No" Bilbo shook his head, aware of Ori watching him with a curious look, "I-I just want to ask him something…is that alright?"
"It is fine, follow me, I believe Estelon is in the Healing Halls"
The two follow him, Ori asking Bilbo in a whisper why he wanted to talk to the Healer. Whispering back, Bilbo told him, both Carriers aware that Legolas could hear them. When they arrive at the Healing hall Legolas ushered them into a room that had no type of door, there was Estelon standing by a bookcase talking to another Elf with dark brown hair and blue eyes.
"Ah, Legolas, Master Ori, Master Bilbo" Estelon greeted upon seeing them.
The other Elf stared at Bilbo who shifted closer to Ori.
"How can I assist you?" the Healer asked.
"I am merely escorting, Omega Bilbo has need to speak with you"
"Y-Yes" Bilbo shuttered nervously when all the attention was on him, "erm, I-I w-was w-wondering i-if it w-wasn't t-t-to m-much trouble, i-f y-you w-would t-tell m-me a-bout G-Gersvinda S-Sackville"
Estelon at first didn't say anything, worried about the Omega's stuttering, and pushing away that familiar ache whenever his late mate was brought up. Beside him, the other Elf; his son and Tauriel's older brother Rhawion inhaled sharply. Then he smiled kindly, offered the Omegas a seat, settled down in a chair of his own; then after introducing his son to the Omegas, talked about Gersvinda.
~.~
It was when Ori woke up in the middle of the night and discovered Bilbo wide awake and staring frightful at shadows, learned that his fellow Omega had been having nightmares and had taken to roaming the halls, often running into either the Elven King or Estelon; occasionally both Elves' offsprings, in the process and spending most of the night with them. That the Dwarf came up with an idea to at least be able to get the Alphas out of their jail cells.
He felt very guilty for it, as he would be using Bilbo's nightmares; nightmares that could be the result of obviously being prisoners despite the nice hospitality, to his advantage. Not to mention using the King's instincts that urged him to protect and care for Omegas, against the Elf. However, some of his guilt is eased when he, using Iglishmêk so the guards outside their door couldn't hear, told Bilbo of his plan. Bilbo had agreed to it, and even had an idea of how they could escape. Thus they asked for an audience with the King, they were given it and were brought before him in what they figured was the throne room. Surprisingly it was Bilbo who made the request.
"What?"
Ori resisted the urge to squirm at the tone, Bilbo however, did.
"I…We…" Bilbo stopped, cleared his throat, and spoke again; this time not stuttering. "We were wondering if you would be so kind as to let the Alphas out, not all of them" Bilbo hurriedly added when Thranduil's eyes narrowed, "many just one or two"
"And why would I do that?" the King asked after very long and uncomfortable pause.
Bilbo tugged nervously on his sleeves and his ear twitched as he mumbled his response, Thranduil obviously heard him because the King's whole demeanor changed. He went from suspicious and a bit angry in his throne, to relaxed, sad, and a little guilty.
"Have you spoken to Estelon about you nightmares like I suggested during our last meeting?" the Alpha asked gently, looking seconds away from descending from his throne and Tucking Bilbo right there in the middle of the floor.
"I did" Bilbo nodded, it was true, he had gone to the Healer in hope that he had something to ease the nightmares, "he gave me a tonic, but it didn't work…..I don't like being cooped up….it brings back memories"
This time Thranduil does look guilty, leaving Ori to believe that Bilbo must have told the Alpha about how being trapped in his own home was the only way to be safe. He also wondered what else his fellow Omega told the Alpha King, or how much he guessed though subconscious hints. The Elf King was thoughtfully silent for what felt like a long time; finally he gave them his answer.
"I will allow two, of Bilbo's choice to be freed of their cells" he said, he paused whether for thought or something else, then spoke again, "they will be given the same freedom as you"
Ori watched as Bilbo gave the King a small smile, to which the King's whole posture goes as lax as an Elf could get and chest puff up in subconscious Alpha pride. He wasn't upset that the King wanted Bilbo to choose which of their Company to be freed of their cell, after all Ori was still an Dwarf, and while he was respectful, Thranduil did not trust him.
"Thank you" Bilbo said, "erm, do I have to choose now?" he then asked after Ori said his own thanks.
Thranduil nodded and waited.
A little nervous, Bilbo thought about which of the Company to pick, Nori was an easy decision. For one thing the Alpha would give comfort to whatever problems Ori refused to show Bilbo; they were still prisoners after all. The other thing was that Nori was a thief, and a very good one according to Dwalin who would grumble and curse as he admitted it, and they needed a good thief if they have any chance for their plan to work. That just left the nine remaining members of the Company. The Company didn't like Elves in general and the same could be same for the Elves, however Thorin hated Thranduil with great passion. So that left the leader out; Dwalin too for that matter, he hadn't taken to being locked up kindly. Balin would be best, but Bilbo felt better if the most diplomatic of the members aside from perhaps Ori, stayed with the locked up Company.
And though Dori was the strongest of the Company, he was also the most fussy, and they didn't have time for fussy. Gloin was somewhat quick tempered, and his elder brother's hearing, while not a big problem since they could use Iglishmêk Bilbo would prefer the medic with the Company should anything happen. He doubted Estelon knew much about Dwarven physiology. While he was fond of Bifur, he had seen the Dwarf's unpredictability during their journey. They were rare, and he never hurt Bilbo or anyone (in fact, once he had herded Bilbo away from the Company and had refused everyone but Ori to approach them), but still possibly dangerous. Bombur, easy-tempered, was unfortunately not the stealthiest.
There was Fili, but Ori had mentioned hearing one of the guards complaining about how he kept confiscating knives from the eldest Prince, they were already being watched, they didn't need that doubled. Kili may help, but the last time the Carriers had been down to visit he had noticed the looks going on between the Dwarf, Legolas and Tauriel, it looked very complicated and very confusing.
"We don't need that at the moment" Bilbo thought.
That just left Bofur, and the more he thought on it, the more Bilbo realized that the Dwarf was ideal. He wasn't as quick tempered as his fellow Alphas, and he didn't seem to mind the Elves as much as the others did.
"Erm, I would like the Dwarves called Nori and Bofur to be freed"
Thranduil nodded and ordered the guards to do so after Bilbo gave them a description of who was who. As they are led away to wait for the Alphas to be brought to their rooms, Bilbo blinked as he realized that he knew a lot more about the Company then he thought.
It made him a little happy.
~.~
When a guard came down and opened his door, Bofur was a little weary, even more so when he heard another cell door being opened.
"Out" said the guard.
Bofur didn't move.
"King Thranduil has allowed you freedom within his halls at the request of your Pack Omegas"
At the mention of Ori, and more importantly Bilbo, the miner's eyes widen and after a long pause stepped out. He looked around and saw Nori had also been freed and was whispering what was perhaps reassurance to Dori who was still locked up. Bofur's guard closed the door and began escorting him out of the dungeon, the miner giving his cousin and brother a reassuring smile as he passed their cell. The two Dwarves were lead through twirling paths and to a door, which had two guards stationed, it's opened and they are ushered in,
The moment he saw his brother, Ori all but flew into the Alpha's arms, making a mixture of distress and happy noises as he buried his face into his brother's chest. Nori held him tight, rumbling and rubbing his cheeks where he could. Bofur watched them for a little bit before looking over at Bilbo. The Omega was looking at him with an expression of wanting anticipation and a great deal of nervousness. With a smile, he approached him and settled his hat on top of Bilbo's head. It was rather big and slipped down pass the Omega's eyes. Bilbo made a startled noise, but when he pushed the hat back up, he looked rather happy.
Happier now that he saw the two were unharmed, and Bilbo was more or less covered in his scent, Bofur looked around the room for a moment, and upon seeing the food covered table headed for it.
"So" Bofur said after pouring and drinking some wine, "explanation"
Since Nori was busy sniffing, and scenting Bilbo's wrists, Ori, in Iglishmêk, told the miner their plan.
"Do you have a way out of here after Nori swipes the keys?" Bofur signed after Ori was done.
"Bilbo came up with a way" the Dwarf Omega signed, "however; you're not going to like it"
~.~
The Dwarves were not happy with Bilbo's escape plan, probably didn't help that they had Elves and Orcs chasing them as they rushed down the wild waters in barrels, though Bilbo wasn't having a good time either. Hands gripping the side of Thorin's barrel so tightly they were white, spitting out water and blinking away water that seemed determined to blind him, Thorin's hand holding onto his own was some reassurance. The Carrier yelped when they bounced off of…something, and spun, around them some of the Orcs fought the Elves while others leaped and tried kill the Dwarves and Bilbo.
"I have you!" Thorin said loudly over the loud rapids and when they stopped spinning, "I won't let you go!"
Bilbo just held on tighter.
Suddenly an Orc leaped at Thorin, the Dwarf is able to elbow it with his free hand, causing the Orc to drop its weapon into the rapids. However it's not enough, and the Alpha is growling as he bite down on the arm suddenly around his neck, the Orc shrieked but didn't let go. Snarling, Thorin threw his head back and slammed the back of his head into the Orc, it cried out as it fell over.
On top of Bilbo.
Thorin's nails dug into the Carrier's skin as he tried to keep Bilbo with him, but the Orc was heavy, the rapids merciless and his grip was wet and slipper.
Bilbo went under.
"Bilbo!"
And didn't come back up.
Vras Shakutarbik: More or less means kill the dwarf.
Tharkûn: What the Dwarves call Gandalf.
Next chapter: Bard!
Review Please!
