Chapter 22 The Rescue
"So, what is the plan, Xander? "asked Kili, as they walked toward the south dungeon. Ren, Kili, and Tauriel looked expectantly at the wizard, who kept looking at three crystals. The crystals were blue, red, and yellow, and they were glowing.
"Ren told me that Griff was unconscious. If they took all of our friends, which I expected they did, they would have to drag Griff to the witch…and Griff is a very tall fellow. I got a potion here, which will show us the drag marks on the floor of the dungeon, "stated Xander.
"Good, we get to the chamber where Steven, Griff, and Fili are. But how do we handle the witch and her monsters? "asked Ren. The group was walking as fast as they could, without tiring themselves. They were trying to get to their friends before something terrible happens to them.
"I will fight with the witch, while you try to get to the others, and release them, Ren. That would make our numbers up to seven, which will help us to fight the orcs, "said a sighing wizard.
"What if Steven, Griff, and Fili are already dead? "asked Tauriel, with tears in her eyes.
"They are not dead. See these crystals, how brightly they shine. " Xander show them the three crystals that he had been peeking at, since they had left Logan.
"They are beautiful, Xander, "remark Kili, as he touched the blue one.
"I made these three crystals to show me the lives of our friends. The blue one is for Fili, the red crystal for Griff, and the yellow crystal for Steven. As long as the crystals glow, that shows me that our friends are alive, "stated the wizard. Ren, Kili, and Tauriel smiled, as they continued to walk. The cloaked person could barely see them, but keep walking behind them.
The traveling companions kept walking even in the dark, since Xander was using his staff to light the way. They were safe as long as they stay on the Traveler's road. After ten hours, they finally reached the crossroads, and they decided to rest a bit, before going on. It was past the middle of the night, and they were very sleepy.
"You look worried, Xander. Why? "asked Ren, as he drank some water from Xander's water bag.
"I was wondering why the witch is called the Siren. I am afraid she knows the Siren's Call spell, "explained Xander.
"What is that? "asked Kili.
"She sings the spell, and put men into a trance. The men would do as she asks them to do. I do not know if that spell will work on me, since I am an Outsider. And I know for sure, it will not work on Tauriel, since she is a female, "stated the wizard.
"Well, if she is alone, then you and I will handle her, Xander, "said Tauriel.
"If we are lucky, that would be wonderful, "said Xander, as he gave each one a potion to drink. "Drink this potion and it will make you feel like you have had a good night sleep. You will be ready to fight, without being tired. " Everyone drank their potion, and felt ready to move on. Xander lead the way to the south dungeon, worrying about the outcome of the confrontation with the witch. After they moved on to the south dungeon, the cloaked person arrived at the crossroad. The person looked around the dark crossroads, and then continued on behind the group.
The companions arrived at the dungeon, and looked at the six traveling bags, that were lit by a torch. Seeing the bags gave Ren a twisted pain of guilt. Xander saw the look on Ren's face, and patted his back.
"It is not your fault, Ren. Fili sent you for help, and you did what he wanted you to do, "comfort Xander, as the swordsman looked at him.
Ren smiled, and said, "Let us go get our friends back from that witch, Xander. " They got their weapons readied, and the companions entered the south dungeon, as the cloaked person watched.
They looked around the front chamber, and saw nothing. The ominous feeling that Ren had felt before was gone. Xander was looking on the ground, and looked at Ren for an answer.
"Griff collapsed inside the east hallway, Xander, "stated the swordsman, as the wizard nodded. Looking down the east hallway, the wizard sent a stream of flame from his staff to light the torches on the wall. Xander entered the east hallway, and stopped. Steven, Griff, and Fili's weapons were still lying on the floor where they were thrown. Ren quickly grabbed Griff's axes, and put one of the axes on Griff's traveling bag. Ren was using one of his swords and one of Griff's axes as a weapon. Griff would need his axe to defend himself, when they release him.
Kili did the same with his brother's swords and daggers. He put one sword and six daggers on Fili's Traveling bag. Kili kept one of the swords to be partner with his sword. Tauriel gently lean Steven's halberd next to the entrance of the south dungeon. They went back to Xander, who stood waiting for them, in the east hallway.
The wizard looked at the ground where they found the weapons, and could see a bit of the floor had been marked, but not too clearly. He reached into his cloak, and took out a vial with red smoke in it. Xander literally pour the vapors onto where it looks to be dragged marks. A red path went down the hallway, showing the dragged marks of Griff's feet.
"That is amazing, Xander, "said a smiling Kili, as the other two smiled.
"Let us be careful, because they must have other hidden doorways going down this hall. It sounded like she had set a trap for you, Ren, and knew that your group was coming to the dungeon, "said Xander.
"I do not like the sounds of that, "stated Tauriel, as she had her sword and dagger readied. They walked slowly down the hall.
"Who did she want to capture? "asked Kili, as he kept checking the hall behind them. Suddenly, Tauriel stabbed her sword into the wall, and a small orc armed with a knife, collapsed onto the floor.
"I am so glad you are here, Tauriel, "said a smiling Kili, as he sighs in relief. Tauriel smiled at her husband.
"The answer to your question, Kili…I think she was after Fili, "stated Xander.
His companions softly said, "What? "
"I thought it was strange that Fili was not getting any work, since he is a great sword-maker. Ren had shown me the sword that Fili had made for him. So I figured that the Siren had something to do with him coming here. She had to force him to come to the dungeon, "explained Xander.
"How did you figure that out, Xander? "inquired an amazed Ren.
"I use to know a conniving woman, "stated Xander, as he remember his marriage to his ex-wife.
Ren nodded as he remembered the stories the wizard had told him about the ex-wife.
"Yes, so be careful. In case, the Siren knows of our existed in the dungeon. She will send a number of her creatures to stop us, "warned Xander.
Kili kept guarding their backs, as the others slowly examine the hall and walls. Then, they heard a strange noise coming toward them. The companions stood ready to tackle whatever creature comes down the hall. The hall turned left, and coming around the corner were seven warg puppies.
"They are warg puppies…how adorable, "said a smiling Kili.
"Do not touch them! Something is not right here! "warned Xander, as he watched the puppies come closer. The puppies were playfully trotting toward the companions. When all of sudden, the puppies started snarling and foaming at the mouths, and racing closer.
"THEY ARE RABID! "shouted Ren, as he got the sword and axe ready.
"Do not let them bite you! Kill them! "said Xander, as he used his staff to hit a puppy, into the wall.
"This is horrible! I do not like killing these puppies, "replied Tauriel as she sliced a puppy with her sword. Ren quickly strike down two more puppies with the axe and sword, as Kili slashes with the two swords killing two puppies, as well. Xander finally burn the last two puppies, and looked at the others. They looked guilty about killing the young things.
"Did anyone get bit? "asked Xander. His companions shook their heads, as the wizard sighed.
"Why would she sent rabid puppies? "asked a sicken Kili.
"Mind games, "stated Xander.
"I do not understand what you mean, Xander? "stated the she-elf.
"She is trying to upset us, so we would not fight too well, "explained the wizard. "Let us continue down the hall, because the red path is still showing. " They hurried to the corner, and Xander peeked around the corner of the hall. But he saw nothing, so they continued on. The cloaked person looked at the dead puppies, and shook his head.
The Siren was laughing so hard, as she watched the rescuers kill the rabid puppies, in her crystal sphere.
"These friends of yours are so funny. They killed the warg puppies without remorse…well maybe two felt guilty, "said a smiling Siren. "Let us see how they handle the next creature I send them. "
Griff and Fili glared at the witch, as she looked in their direction. She loves the fact that they were angry with her, which gave her a thrill. The Siren knew she could bewitch them to do her bidding, but they would be emotionless objects, with no passion. She loves the emotions that she brings out in her captives. It fills and delights her, with no end. The Siren turn back to her crystal sphere, so she can continue to watch the rescuers come to her chamber. She cannot wait to see how they handle the next creature.
Xander was checking the crystals, when Ren gasped. Looking at the swordsman, he saw how pale Ren looked, so he turn to see what was down the hallway.
"Blast that woman! "snapped Xander, as he got his staff readied.
"What is it?! "asked Kili, as he and his wife stood ready.
"It is a popo hopper, "stated Ren, as he got his weapons readied.
Hopping down the hallway was a creature, which was mostly a head that is connected into the body, with no neck. It has huge legs that ended into big feet for hopping. The creature opens its big mouth to show large teeth.
"Protect Tauriel! "shouted Xander, as Ren quickly went to the she-elf side.
"What?! "exclaimed Kili, as he and Tauriel got frighten by those words.
"Popos like to eat women and children. When it sees Tauriel, it is going to fight us to get to her. And you cannot kill these creatures, because their body is protected with blubber, "stated Xander.
The popo stop hopping, when it saw the group. The creature spotted Tauriel in their midst, with its small round eyes. It started hopping faster towards them, eager to get to Tauriel. The three males fought with the popo, as it tried to bite Tauriel, who was very frighten. The creature would lunge one way, then the other way quickly.
"What can we do, Xander? "asked Tauriel, as she finally hit the popo with her sword. The popo's body just wiggles, when it gets hit by a weapon.
"I am thinking…blubber…hmmm…like bacon…fire, "muttered Xander. He pointed his staff to the popo, and sent a stream of flames. The popo jumped, and whimpered. It took off hopping fast back the way it came. The companions tried to catch their breath, as they watched the monster disappear down the hall. The wizard signaled for them to move on.
They were nervous and on edge, as they followed the twisting corridor, with the red path. Finally it stopped at an archway, which startled the rescuers.
"Are we here? "whispered Kili.
"I think so, Kili, "replied Xander. A beautiful voice was singing a song, and Kili and Ren stood confused. Slowly, man and dwarf walked into the chamber, as Xander and Tauriel watched in horror.
"Come on, Tauriel, "said Xander.
"Yes Xander, "said an angry Tauriel
Chapter 23 The Battle
Ren and Kili were in a trance, as they answered the Siren's Call spell. The witch was signaling to them to walk to the cage, where Griff and Fili stood in a trance. The two companions slowly walked to the cage that the Siren unlocked and opened the door. The witch sang and took their weapons from their hands, as they walked into the cage. Xander and Tauriel barely caught the Siren closing the cage door behind Ren and Kili.
"NO! "screamed Tauriel, as she charged the witch with her sword and dagger. Xander tried to stop the she-elf, but he was not fast enough. Tauriel's yell woke the four males in the cage, who looked confusedly around their surroundings. The Siren threw a black mass at Tauriel, throwing the she-elf across the chamber to hit a wall.
"Leave her alone! "shouted an angry Xander, as the witch slowly turns to the wizard.
"Strange, my spell did not work on you, wizard, "said the Siren.
"I am an Outsider. I think the Siren's Call spell works on males of Middle-Earth, "answered Xander, as he circle the Siren, who kept facing him. He went to check on a groaning Tauriel, who was trying to get on her feet.
"Too bad wizard, because you are such a handsome fellow, "said the Siren, as she said a spell.
"NO! "shouted Xander, as a big ball of blue energy flew toward the wizard. Tauriel jumped in front of Xander, and got hit by the blue ball. The she-elf screamed, as Kili ran to the bars of the cage.
"TAURIEL! "the dwarf screams, with fear. His three companions joined Kili at the bars of the cage. They watched as Tauriel collapsed unconscious onto the floor of the chamber. Xander bend over the she-elf, and saw she was breathing. He looked at the smiling Siren.
"You know the rules of magic…that the uses of the Zuune spell are forbidden. Only a dark creature of pure evil would dare use it, "accused Xander, as he stood to face the witch.
"She should not have gotten in the way of the spell, wizard, "said the Siren, as Kili cried for his wife. His companions tried to comfort him. "Eurus' wife should not have come. "
"She is my wife! "shouted Kili, as the Siren laughed.
"An elf married to a dwarf, that is so hard to believe, "teased the witch.
"She is breathing, Kili, "stated Xander, as Kili looked hopefully at the wizard.
"Not for long, wizard. Doro never tasted elf before, "said the smiling Siren, who quickly threw the Zuune spell at the wizard. Xander was caught off guard. He fell to the floor writhing in pain. He felt like every inch of his body was pure pain. Xander lay unmoving on the floor.
"XANDER! "screamed Fili, as the others watched their hurt friend not move.
"One more time with the Zuune spell should kill your wizard, "said the witch, as she watch the others paled in fear for Xander.
When the Siren turned to face the unconscious Xander, the cloak person stood over Xander, checking on his body.
"Who are you? "demanded the Siren.
"A friend, "stated the cloaked person.
"My friend? "asked an incredulous witch.
"No, their friend, "said the stranger, who indicted the others in the chamber. The Siren laughed.
"Well, you are about to witness me kill this wizard, "said a cold Siren.
"No, you will not. I will not let you kill him, "replied the cloaked person, as he put Xander over his shoulder. The Siren angrily walked to the stranger, and yanked down the hood.
"Sebastian! "shouted the males in the cage. The Siren sang her spell at the healer, who just smiles.
"Woman, that spell does not work on me. I am not animal, I am a plant, "stated Sebastian. "By the way, you are a bit off key. "
"Aargh! "snapped the witch, in anger. "You are an Iason. You cannot interfere in any action of man. It is your law! "
"I am not interfering, I am helping an injured man, "said Sebastian. "And do not try the other spell on me, because it will not work. Besides, it is aging your body, witch. " The Siren gasped, as she hurried to her mirror on the wall. She checked her image and saw grey hairs on her head, and wrinkles on her face. The witch started crying.
"Sebastian? "asked Griff, as the four males looked hopefully at the healer.
"She is right, that I am not allowed to help you. And Kili, Tauriel is fine. She is sleeping, but she lost the baby, "said a sad healer, as he carried the unconscious Xander.
"She was with child? "said a sad Kili.
"Yes, and I am afraid so, and because of that spell the witch hit her with, she will never have any more children, "informed Sebastian. "But I will send help. "
"Thorin, "said a sad and smiling Kili.
"Yes, Thorin, "said Sebastian, as he turn and left the chamber, with the wizard. The witch glared at the Iason's leaving form, and said some foul words. She looked over at the she-elf, and turn to a huge iron chest, with decorative holes all over its walls. The witch opened the chest, and threw her clothing on the floor, in anger. She then turns to Tauriel, and using her magic floated the she-elf over the opened chest, and dropped her cruelly into the iron box. Then the Siren closed the chest, and locked it.
The Siren walked over to the two men and two dwarves, and said, "I will make sure Doro slowly eats your wife. That way, she will feel such a terrible pain before she dies, like Radnor did. " The four males glared at the Siren, who went to a spell book to see if she could repair her beauty.
Chapter 24 Little Heroes
Thorin had been pacing the gathering room, since he woke up in the morning. He wonders if Xander succeed in rescuing the adventurers. He is hoping they would arrive soon at Oakenshield. But the more that time passes, his hope disappears.
He remembers the talk he had with his wife, Susy last night. He was so worried about Fili and Kili that he was not listening to her. She wanted to know how he would feel if the baby she was carrying was a daughter, and not a son. He was so tire that he told her that he did not want a daughter, but only sons. He had walked out of the bedroom, and he thought he heard his wife crying at his answer.
Thorin did not have the patience now to calm his wife, who was upset with him. Susy had slept with Lilybelle in the daughters' dormitory. Oakenshield figures his wife was still crying about his answer.
A knock came on the front door, and Thorin quickly answered the door. It was the guard named Macklin at the front door, looking a bit upset.
"Yes, can I help you? "asked Thorin.
"Master Thorin, Sebastian sent me to get you. He just came back from the south dungeon carrying an unconscious Master Xander, "stated Macklin.
"I will be there as soon as I can, "said a pale Thorin, as Macklin left. Thorin slowly closed the door, and called for Balin. Balin, Susy, Lilybelle, and the lads came running down the stairs into the gathering room.
"Balin, I need you to get Dwalin, Bofur, Bombur, and Bifur to come to the house. Tell them to bring their weapons, because we are heading to the south dungeon. Xander and his companions had fail, and I need to get my nephews back home, "said a grim Thorin.
"I am assuming that I am coming as well, "said a smiling Balin.
"Yes Balin. I would never leave you behind, "said Thorin, who returned the smile. Balin quickly left the house, as Thorin frown at the others.
"Thorin, please do not go to the south dungeon. I do not want to lose you, as well, "said an upset Susy.
"We talked about this yesterday, wife. I have to go to the south dungeon to get Fili and Kili back. I do not have time to argue with you anymore. So please…enough! "stated Thorin, who was a bit frustrated.
Susy's face went pale, and she collapsed onto the floor. Lilybelle screamed and hurried to her Aunt Susy's side. Thorin went pale, and knelt next to his prone wife. The lads were quiet and afraid for Thorin's wife.
"Aunt Susy?! What is wrong?! "screamed a scared Lilybelle.
"Susy…Susy, what is wrong wife? "said a crying Thorin. "She is so cold. " Thorin picked up his wife, and told Little Xander to open the front door.
"Where are you going? "asked Lilybelle.
"I am taking her to Sebastian, "stated a scared Thorin.
"I am coming as well, Thorin, "said Lilybelle.
"Xander, watch over Tiki for me, "said Thorin, as he hurried to the healer, with his wife and the hobbit.
Eight years old Thror started crying, and Little Xander told him to stop his fussing.
"Thror, dwarf do not cry, "stated little Xander.
"Da cried. Besides, I am only half dwarf. It was the man side that was crying, "said Thror, as Little Xander and Tiki smiled.
"Xander, I am going to the dungeon to get my Da and Ma back, "said Tiki. "Your Da is very busy with your Ma. I think she is very sick, and it will be some time before your Da can go get my Da. "
"You cannot go alone, "said Little Xander.
"Do not try to stop me, Xander. I am going, "said a determine Tiki.
"No. I am going with you, Tiki. Remember…I have to take care of you, "said the thirteen years old Little Xander. Little Xander ran to his room, and got his sword and scabbard. He came back running to his cousin and brother. "Thror, you stay here and tell Ba what had happened to Ma. Do not tell him about Tiki and I going to the dungeon. "
"Alright, Xander. Both of you be careful, "said a sad Thror.
"Will you be alright by yourself, Thror? "asked Tiki.
"Yes, Tiki. I am a dwarf, "stated a scared Thror. The half-elf and half-dwarf waved at Thror, and left the house.
"I need to go to my house, and get my sword and bow, Xander. If we take Mist, then we can get to the dungeon quicker, "said Tiki.
"Good idea, Tiki, "said Little Xander, as they ran toward Little Logan. Bombom was practicing with an axe his Da have given him, and saw the two cousins run by. He ran after them, and saw them go into Tiki's house. Bombom waited for them, outside Tiki's front door. They were surprise to see him waiting for them.
"What are you two doing? "asked Bombom.
"Do not tell anybody, but Tiki and I are going to the south dungeon to get his parents and uncle back home, "said Little Xander.
"I am going too, "stated the sixteen years old Bombom.
"We are going to be riding Mist, Bombom, "said Tiki. "I do not think she can carry all three of us. "
"I got Butter, remember. I will ride Butter, while you ride Mist. Besides, I thought we were the Dwarves Trio? "said a sad Bombom.
"He is right. He is one of us, "stated Little Xander. "Go get your pony, while we get Mist ready, Bombom. Do not tell anyone where you are going, or they will try to stop us. " Bombom nodded, and hurry to get his pony.
When they were ready, the lads decided to go out the other exit of Little Logan. It was a path that goes along the walls of Logan. They figured that the guards at the main gate would ask questions, and stopped them. They were almost to the front wall where the main gates were, when a person stepped out in front of them.
"Where are you going, Tiki? "asked Quinn the thief. Quinn was standing in the path next to the walls of Logan. He had a small short-haired dog, beside him.
"We are just going to go for a ride, "said a worried Tiki.
Quinn smiled, and said, "You are a terrible liar, Tiki. I figured you would go to the south dungeon to rescue your parents. I am coming with you, since you will need my help. I have been trained to deal with dungeons, and I am a man. And you do need a grown person with you. Oh, this is my friend, Cat's dog. He is very good in tracking things and people. I figure he could lead us to where your parents are in the dungeon. "
"Alright, "said Little Xander. "What is your name? "
"They call me, Quinn the Thief, "said the twenty-one year old man.
"You better share Bombom's pony. I think it can carry the both of you, since you are so thin, "said Little Xander. Quinn nodded, and climbed behind Bombom, on Butter. The dog followed Quinn where ever he went, so the dog walked beside Butter. Quinn showed them an obscure pathway in the woods that would keep them hidden from the guards, who were standing in front of the main gates of Logan. They rode through the trees slowly so, that they would not crash into the branches. When they were far enough from the walls, they entered the Traveler's road. They rode quickly to the crossroad with the dog running besides them. It only took the four young heroes four hours on horseback to get to the crossroad. They looked around to make sure there was no flying creature over head, since Bombom was still scared of griffins. Quinn led the way to the south dungeon, because Cat told him how to get there. They finally saw the entrance to the dungeon, and the Dwarves Trio was starting to be afraid.
"We can do this! "stated Little Xander, as he reassures the others and himself. They got off the mare and pony, and got their weapons ready.
"That is a nice dog, Quinn. What is his name? "asked Bombom, who was carrying his axe.
"Dog. His mistress is called Cat, so she thought it would be funny if her dog was named Dog, "said a smirking Quinn.
"Girls, "said the three young lads, as they shook their heads.
Quinn slowly entered the front chamber, and took a quick look around, but there was nothing dangerous there. He signals the others, and told the dog to find the other people. The dog sniffed the ground, and headed into the east hallway. The four heroes walked into the hallway, and saw the red path, and the lit torches.
"It looks like we do not need your dog, "said Little Xander, who was acting like his father.
"What is that?! "asked a surprised Bombom. The popo hopper was trying to find Tauriel again, and saw the group near the exit. It sniff out Tiki, and started hopping real fast for the twelve years old.
"It wants Tiki! "screamed Quinn. "Go at it, dog! " The dog ran at the popo hopper, and started biting the creature's legs and feet. The popo hopper cried out, and hopped away to the exit of the dungeon and left.
"I guess we do need the dog, "said a grateful Tiki. Quinn smiled, and led the way for the others. They walked for a short bit, when the thief stopped.
"What is wrong? "asked a nervous Bombom, who kept looking everywhere.
"There is a dead orc in the hallway, "stated Quinn, who slowly approached the dead creature.
"Are you sure it is dead? "asked Bombom, who peeked around Little Xander and Tiki.
"Yes, there is a lot of blood on its chest, "stated Quinn, as he looked at the dead orc.
"Better a dead orc, than a live orc, "said Little Xander, as the others nodded. They carefully slid pass the dead orc, and continued down the hall.
The young group was almost to a turn in the hall, when they saw seven dead warg puppies on the floor of the hallway.
"I wonder who would kill puppies, "said Bombom. "That is kind of mean to kill puppies. "
"They had foam in their mouths. That means the puppies were rabid, "said Quinn. "Here dog! " The dog jumped into Quinn's arms, as he carried the dog over the dead puppies. "I promise Cat that I would take care of her dog. " The others hurried past the dead puppies.
"I think my godfather, Xander killed those puppies, because some of them are burned, "stated Little Xander. They agreed. They continued down the hall following the red path.
"Kili? " said a voice inside the decorative metal chest.
"Tauriel, are you alright? "asked Kili, as he looked through the bars.
"My body hurts, and I am very tire, "replied Tauriel. "Why am I bleeding? "
"Sebastian said that you had lost our baby. "
"What? "said an upset Tauriel. "I did not know I was with child. "
"It is alright, Tauriel. I do not blame you. I love you, wife, "said Kili.
"Would you two be quiet?! You are turning my stomach with all that love talk! "snarled the Siren, who had been trying to remove the wrinkles from her face. "I wish that Iason was here, because with Iason's blood you can make the Lanetta elixir. "
"Griff, where is Steven? "asked Ren. The Siren started laughing, as the males glared at her.
"The witch turn Steven into stone, Ren, "said Griff, as Kili and Ren gasped. Kili looked at his brother, Fili and they hugged.
"It is me that you want, Siren. Why do you not just release the others, and I will do what you ask, "said Fili.
"No, dwarf. I am going to enjoy torturing and killing this she-elf, "said the Siren.
"You leave my brother's wife alone! "snapped Fili.
"Brothers? You two look nothing alike, "teased the Siren. Fili and Kili said some dwarfish cusswords. The Siren only laughed at the dwarves. "Now, I want everyone to behave. I need to go get a few spider legs for my potion. I will return shortly. " The Siren went to a hidden door next to the small chamber.
"Da? "said a quiet voice.
"Tiki? What are you doing here?! "whispered Kili, harshly. The four heroes hurried into the chamber to the caged dwarves and men.
"Is there a key? "asked Quinn.
"Thief, you have grown so much, since I last saw you, "said a smiling Fili, as Quinn smiled back.
"I think the witch took the key with her, "said Griff. Quinn took out a pick, and was working on the lock to the door of the cage.
"Xander, I thought you said that you were going to be watching over Tiki, "said an upset Kili.
"I am watching over him. That is why I am here in the dungeon with him, "said Little Xander.
"Does your Da and Ma know that you are here, Xander? "asked Fili.
"No, or they would had stopped us, "replied Little Xander.
"Where is Ma, Da? "asked Tiki, as the half-elf looked around the chamber for his mother.
"Here Tiki, inside of this metal chest, "answered Tauriel. Tiki hurried over to the chest, when they heard a voice singing. Tiki hid behind the chest, as Little Xander, Bombom, and Quinn went into a trance, and dropped their weapons. The Siren entered the chamber, and carefully took Quinn's pick from his hand. The dog went to attack the singing Siren, who kicked the dog. The dog took off yelping, as it ran into the hall. The witch opened the cage, and Quinn, Little Xander, and Bombom entered the cage with the others. She closed the cage, and stopped singing. Tauriel had noticed that the singing did not affect Tiki.
"My my, this cage is getting very full, "said the Siren. The males in the cage came to their senses. "What little heroes we have here. "
"Let us out! My Da and Ba are coming to kill you, "yelled Little Xander. The Siren just laughed. The dog came back snarling at the witch, who quickly turned the dog into stone.
"DOG! "shouted Quinn, who hurried to the bars of the cage.
"Dog? What a funny named for a dog, "said the teasing Siren. "My my…you are so plump. " The Siren was inspecting the new arrivals in the cage, and spied Bombom. "I think I will turn you into a statue, and put you at the entrance of the dungeon. " The men stood in front of the young dwarf, who had gone pale.
"Leave Bombom alone! "shouted Tiki. The witch looked toward the direction of the chest and saw Tiki.
"What?! I did not capture all of the little heroes, "said the Siren, who slowly approached the chest.
"Run son! "screamed Kili, as Tiki trying dodged the witch's hands.
"If you run from me, I will kill your parents! "shouted the Siren. Tiki stopped running, and looked at the witch. The Siren could see the young boy was scared. "Come to me now. "
Tiki slowly walked up to the witch, and she grabbed him. The Siren looked at Tiki carefully, as he leaned away from her. "Well, no wonder the Siren's Call spell did not work with you lad, you are still a boy. Are you a brave boy? " Tiki did not move or answer. "Let us see how brave you are? "
The Siren pushes one of Tiki's sleeves up, and slowly drew her fingernail across his thin arm. Her nails were so sharp, she cut into his skin. Tiki grimaced, as the others protest what the witch was doing to the lad.
"Hmmm…you did not cry out. So, you must be a little brave. What is this? " The Siren found Tiki's keepsake pouch around his neck. "Does it have a hidden treasure? " Tiki remember years ago how his Aunt Susy gave him the pouch, and told him to throw the salt at any witch, if he wanted to escape.
"Yes, it is a treasure that my Aunt Susy gave me. Do you want to see it? "asked Tiki, who was very scared.
"Yes, show me the treasure your aunt gave you, "said a smirking Siren. Tiki opened the pouch, and threw the salt into the witch's eyes. She screamed, and clawed at her face, as she released Tiki. Tiki's mouth dropped open, as the salt ate through the witch's skin, skull, and brain. The Siren fell dead to the floor of the chamber, as everyone looked surprised at what had happened.
"I do not believe it. Tiki killed the witch! "shouted a happy Fili.
"What is going on in here? "said a voice, from the small chamber.
"Steven! "shouted Griff and Ren. Steven came out of the chamber, with Eurus, Knox, Royden, and a confused farmer.
"Steven, look in the witch's clothing to find the key for the cage, "said Fili.
Tiki hurried to Kili, who tried to hug his son, through the bars of the cage. Steven found the key, and unlocked the door to the cage. Everyone hurried out of the cage, as Kili and Tiki hurried to the chest. Quinn took his pick from where the Siren had laid it, as Dog hurried over to the young thief, wagging its tail. Quinn quickly picked the lock to the chest, and they helped a weak Tauriel out of the chest.
"Let us quickly leave before that Cyclops and his orcs come back, "said Griff. They gather their weapons quickly, and hurried back down the hall. They did not bother being careful, but moved as fast as they could. But nothing attacked the group, as they finally left the south dungeon. Mist and Butter was grazing nearby, and the adventurers decided that Tauriel and Tiki should ride Mist, as Bombom ride Butter. They happily headed back to Logan, leaving the farmer at the crossroad.
Knox and Royden walked ahead of the group, because they were eager to get back to Logan. Griff informed Eurus by his friend being eaten by the witch, which made the elf sad.
Kili had to tell Tiki about his Ma losing the baby. Then Kili told Tauriel and Tiki what Sebastian said about Tauriel not having any more children, after being injured by the witch. Both Tauriel and Tiki cried into each other's arms, as they journey back to Logan.
Then, Little Xander told everyone about what had happened to his Ma, and everyone was quiet in their thoughts. They finally saw the walls of Logan, and the guards shouted about the return of the adventurers.
Calliann came running out of Logan into Eurus' arms. The guards were patting the friends of Xander on their backs, and told them that Xander was still at Sebastian's hovel. Kili, Tauriel, and Tiki told Eurus and Calliann that they would see them later. Eurus smiled, and walked home with his arm around his wife.
The group hurried through Logan to get to the healing hovel. Everyone froze as they saw Thorin sitting on a stool outside the healing hovel, he was holding a blanket covered thing in his arms, and was crying.
"DA! "yelled Little Xander, as he ran to Thorin, who quickly got up. The father and son hugged, as Oakenshield held the blanket-covered thing away from the hug. "Is Ma alright? "
Thorin sighed, and smiled. "Your Ma is fine, Little Xander. " Everyone sighed in relief, as Thorin finally noticed Kili, Fili, and Tauriel. Then he saw Tiki and Bombom, and Xander's friends. "I do not understand. How did you get away from the witch? "
"Tiki killed the witch by throwing salt into her face, "said Fili.
"Fili? "said a voice. "FILI! " Lilybelle hurried out of the hovel, followed by a weak Xander, Sebastian, and Thorin's dwarves: Balin, Dwalin, Bofur, Bombur, and Bifur. She threw herself into Fili's arms, as they kiss each other.
"Will you two stop that, you are making me itch! "snarled a smiling Dwalin.
"When we saw you crying Thorin, we thought something bad had happened to Aunt Susy, "said Kili, with tears in his eyes.
"No, I was crying because Thror told me that Xander and Tiki went to the south dungeon. I thought I had lost my first born, "said Thorin. Thorin looked into his arms, and asked, "Do anyone want to meet my daughter? "
"Daughter? "said a smiling Kili, as everyone tried to peek at a sleeping baby in Thorin's arm.
"What is her name, Thorin? "asked a smiling Tauriel, as Sebastian went to her side. The healer was checking to see how badly the she-elf was.
"Oren Bee, "stated Balin. "My Little One named her after my late wife and her friend. "
"Can we see Aunt Susy? "asked Fili.
"You can visit her, but not too long, "said Sebastian, as Fili and Lilybelle went to check on their aunt. "Tauriel come inside, so I can heal you. " Sebastian went back into the hovel to check on Susy, as Tauriel nodded to the healer. Thorin handed the baby to Balin, who followed Fili, Lilybelle, and Little Xander, with Dwalin by his side.
Xander went to his friends and hugged them. "Xander, you let a woman beat? "asked Steven.
"Steven, how much I miss your big mouth, "said a smiling Xander, as Griff and Ren laughed. "Oh, by the way, there is a bag full of treasure in my cave, and Fili gets a share because he deserves it. " Steven, Griff, and Ren smiled.
Bombur hugged his son, Bombom, and then started scolding him for going to the south dungeon. Bofur and Bifur were rubbing Bombom's noggin, as they teased Bombur's son. They took the young dwarf home to Little Logan for his Ma to see him. Devie was beside herself with worry for her youngest son.
"Tiki, come here lad, "said Thorin. Tiki hurried over to his Uncle Thorin, as Kili and Tauriel watched.
Thorin noticed Quinn the thief, who was joined by a blonde woman. Quinn waved to Tiki, and left with the woman and a dog.
Sighing Thorin, said, "So, you talk to the thief after I told you not to. You went to the dungeon without permission, and you endangered yourself, Xander, and Bombom. " Tiki was close to tears as he looked at Thorin. "Tiki, I am so proud to be your uncle. " A big smile broke out on Tiki's face, as he gave Thorin a huge hug. "Let us goes visit your Aunt Susy. I know she would want to see you, Tiki. "
"Yes, Uncle Thorin. I want to see my Aunt Susy, as well. " The small half-elf took the hand of the dwarf, and entered the healing hovel. They were followed by the half-elf's parents, Kili and Tauriel. A man walking toward the Rusty Spoon heard a woman shout out, "Tiki! I am so glad to see you! "
Doro found his mistress' dead body in her chamber. He went to the tapestry, and pulled it down. He wrapped up the Siren in the tapestry, carried her dead body, and left the south dungeon. The Cyclops traveled many days to the seashore, knowing for sure that nothing would get in his way. The one-eyed creature stole a small boat, and put his mistress' body at the bow. He pushed the boat into the water, and rowed through the sea, heading back to his home. He was heading to the Island of the Cyclops to bury the Siren at the home of his people. The Cyclops builds a shrine for the Siren, and made a hut to live nearby her remains. He never told the witch how much he cared for her. But he was happy just to serve the witch. Doro lived to the ends of his days next to his beloved Siren.
Life for the dwarves continued on in Logan and Little Logan. Thorin taught his youngest son to be a great blacksmith, since his oldest son wished to become an adventurer.
Little Xander always took Tiki and Bombom with him, when he went into any dungeon. And he enjoys his life fighting the terrors of the dungeon, and becoming fearless like his father, Thorin Oakenshield. He would sometimes go adventuring with his godfather Xander, and the wizard's friends: Steven, Griff, and Ren.
Tiki married his Freydel, who was a six foot beauty. He never got taller than five foot, but he knew that it was a sign that he was a dwarf. And he was proud of being a dwarf and an elf. He became a great horse trader and adventurer, and lived happily next to his parents, Kili and Tauriel, in his own tree home.
Bombom was happy to work in the kitchen with his Da, Bombur. He sometimes would go into the dungeon, with his friends Xander and Tiki, but his biggest love was cooking.
Oren Bee became the darling of everyone's life. She grew to be a sweet and loving girl, who would fall in love with a visiting elf, much to the chagrin of her father, Thorin.
Fili and Lilybelle made their forge and weapon shop, which had many customers coming from the Adventurer's guild. Lilybelle gave birth to twin sons, who were name after Fili and Kili's guardians: Oin and Gloin. They helped their parents run the forge and shop, when they became older.
Dwalin and Mer had a son. Dwalin beg Mer to name the child after Dwalin's friend, Karn Barr. Karn was an adventurous boy, which Taffi watched over for her parents. Karn loved his sister, Taffi dearly. The rough and tough Karn will rescue his sister from danger, at a young age. But that is another story.
*I hope you enjoy the story about Tiki early years. I knew a child of Kili and Tauriel would be a special child, so I decided to tell it my way.