The Calm Before The Storm
~~~Rila's POV~~
Feeling his touch as he kisses every inch of you, you hear his voice against your ear.
"Tsk. You look so tired, my dear. It is all this constant walking and fighting. I think I know what you need."
You smile as you slowly open your eyes to a pair of amber eyes watching you back with his own amusement. Much to your amazement, you shyly lifted up your hand and placed it on his cheek.
Unshed tears came from nowhere as you gently caress his cheekbone. He leaned into your touch before leaning down capturing your lips with his. You savour his lips, remembering the way he kisses you. He suddenly stops and you frown as you reopened your eyes watching him.
"I am yours."
As soon as he said that, everything changed. You were now right in front of the archdemon, getting ready to attack it. You saw other members of your party gearing themselves up for the fight ahead. You glanced around, searching for Zevran, but you could not find him.
The archdemon roared causing you to turn your attention back to the battle at hand. Your eyes went wide as you finally spotted Zevran right in front of the massive dragon. You screamed out his name, but he either refused to listen or couldn't hear you.
The archdemon then raised its legs and used its wings, knocking everyone that was near away. Just as things couldn't get any worse, the dragon opened its mouth then started using its fire breath on everything that was in his way.
Just as you ran up to the dragon, you saw Zevran, using both of his blades at the dragon, attacking its rear right leg. Just as the archdemon decided to fly of to another area, you again saw Zevran lying on the ground.
"Zevran!" You shouted, taking no notice to what was happening around you.
It felt like an age as you ran up to him. Every time you thought you had reached him, you realised he was even further away than before.
"Zevran!"
The archdemon was now in the air but you had to see if Zevran was alright.
"Zev," You shouted again, now feeling the fatigue course through you, as you finally reached him "Zev, please be alright."
You fell as you ran up to him, your hands gently touch him. He opened his eyes, his breathing ragged, before he finally looked at you. Zevran graced you with a smile and you watched his left hand reach up to touch your cheek.
"M-My dear Warden, it is alright to let go."
He suddenly started shaking you. You tried stopping him but he was very persistent.
"Rila," You heard him say, the shaking increasing "Rila...Rila...Rila..."
Your eyes snapped open though you take no notice to what was happening around you.
"Rila."
You heard your name again and you momentarily closed your eyes thinking about Zevran, though you realised that you were still being shaken.
"Rila, are you alright?"
Taking a deep breath, you reopened your eyes trying to focus on what was going on. You arch your eyebrows when you realised Bilbo was the one shaking you, concern etched on his face.
"Are you alright?" repeated Bilbo, who finally stopped shaking you "You were calling out in your sleep."
"Maker's breath." You murmured to yourself, feeling the heat course through your cheeks.
Licking your lips, you slowly sat up, noticing Bilbo move a little, though his grey eyes stayed on you. You could sense the rest of the company looking at you, but you deliberately refused to look at them.
"I'm fine Bilbo," You said, as you got up "just a bad dream."
"I'm not convinced," admitted Bilbo "you look terribly pale Rila."
"I said I'm fine," You fumed, walking away from the startled looking hobbit "there is nothing to worry about."
You quickly retrieved your bag, before heading towards the lake once more.
"I'm er, just going to freshen up." You added, keeping your eyes to the ground.
You swiftly walked away from the company feeling embarrassed. On the outside you appeared calm though on the inside, you were worried. Since arriving in Middle-earth, you have never had a dream about Zevran.
You had dreamt of the archdemon several times with you about to plunge your sword in its neck, but you had never had a dream with any of your companions. Sighing, you sat on a broken log, looking at the lake. You knew that dream was just that, a dream, though you couldn't help feeling their was more to it than that.
'A warning,' You pondered to yourself 'of what is about to occur.'
A snap of a twig brought you back to the present and you instantly got up, about to retrieve one of your little blades you carry on you.
"I find a nice cup of tea helps ones little problems." came a voice behind you.
Turning around, you saw Balin, holding two bowls that was billowing heat from them.
"Normally, I would use a cup but we seem to be lacking that kind, considering they need cleaning," carried on Balin, walking up to you "here you go lass, drink it while its still hot."
He held out his right hand as he offered the tea in a bowl. You gratefully took it, though you just looked at the bowl going back in thought. Balin however, was having none of that, as he brushed past you leting out a long sigh in the process.
"Tis a pretty area. I can see why you come here."
"To get clean." You replied, taking a sip from the bowl.
"Aye, there is that as well," chuckled Balin, now turning his attention to you "what's on your mind lass?"
"As I explained to Bilbo, I am fine." You replied, frowning now.
Balin stepped closer to you, his brown eyes never leaving yours.
"You are the female version of Thorin," Your frown increased "so stubborn."
"I'm not stubborn," You retort "I just like my own privacy."
"Hmm, Which is not very healthy now, is it?"
You glared back at Balin while he innocently sipped his own tea from the bowl. He was now looking at the lake, though he did have a small smile on his face, which confused you.
"Do you want to talk about it?" He asked, out of the blue.
You raise your eyebrows at him. Didn't he understand that you didn't want to talk. Again Balin made a sigh, causing you to roll your eyes at him.
"I've always been a good listener for Thorin. You know, it was him that came to me when he wanted my guidance about how to reclaim Erebor."
Your eyes went wide then. You had thought Thorin did things his way. A smile came from nowhere, realising that even a grumpy leader sometimes needed help in understanding on where to go next.
"I thought that would get your attention," chuckled Balin "now tell me lass, what is troubling you?"
It was your turn to sigh, as you sat back down on the log, taking another sip of tea. You knew Balin was here for a reason, so you decided to explain the dream you just had. You had to explain what an archdemon was before you could go on but when you got to Zevran, you stalled a little.
"Were you and this Zevran close?" asked Balin with a gentle voice.
You nodded, while you looked at the lake and the tress.
"Yes, though when my companions and I first met him, it was another matter entirely."
"Go on."
"Zevran was paid to kill us, you see he was an Antivan crow."
You could see the confusion in Balin's eyes and despite yourself, you smiled at him, explaining that Zevran was really an assassin. You told him that instead of killing Zevran, you had decided to spare his life if he decided to join you in the oncoming war towards the blight.
You remembered Alistair not being pleased with these turn of events, though you had explained to him that an assassin could have the advantage. How right that was as you remembered speaking to the Antivan assassin, getting to know him as you all travelled to your next destination.
"I did not mean to upset you child." came Balin's voice, breaking you out of your thoughts.
"You haven't." You whispered, more to yourself, though you knew he had heard you.
"So you and Zevran, grew close?" You nodded "That explains why you kept shouting out his name."
Again you felt your cheeks burn. That was something you did not want to think about. Everyone hearing your lover's name from your own lips as you slept. Very embarrassing indeed.
"It was the dream I had," You murmured "he was fighting the archdemon and the next second he was on the ground, near death."
You shake your head, trying to clear these images from your mind, but it was fruitless, you could still see Zevran lying on the floor, his breathing ragged.
"I know this never happened in real life," You continued "but seeing him like that, after everything we have been through. It kills me to see that scene."
"It was just a dream Rila, nothing more," replied Balin, sitting down next to you and placing his arm around your shoulder to console you "dreams are our way of working out what is happening in the real world. I'm sure your friend Zevran is fine."
"I know you are right," You sighed "but to be honest with you Master Balin, this dream felt more like a premonition...I'm not saying Zevran will come to me, though I wish that part was true. No,"You shook your head, now looking at the sky "the archdemon in this dream was different to the one I fought before."
"Hmm, How so?"
"The archdemon I faced before was big, this one however was slightly smaller...That and the fact it was completely red in colour."
"Does that mean anything to you?" asked Balin.
"I'm not sure. I do have a feeling it is connected to those newcomers and seeing as I'm the only one that can defeat this archdemon, it appears I will have to travel with them."
"Well, we'll cross that bridge when we get to it, lass," remarked Balin, causing you to look at him weirdly "but at this present time, it would be wise to stay with the rest of us, hmm?"
You never answered him as he got up drinking the last of his tea.
"You know, you should never bottle up your emotions lass, it will only eat away your resolve."
Before you could respond to that, Balin walked back to the camp, leaving you more confused than ever.
o0o
As you came back from the lake, you heard Gandalf explain that he would be leaving in a short while for his own reasons. You watched on in bemusement as most of the dwarves tried in vain in making Gandalf reconsider.
You knew that either way, Gandalf was leaving and that was the end of it. You did wonder where he was heading but you knew he would keep that information to himself. You had a feeling it was a dangerous place he was about to venture in, though you knew Gandalf could take care of himself.
"Are you alright?" came a voice to your right.
You turned in that direction, noticing Varric watching you with concern in his amber eyes.
"I only ask because I er, once met the name you shouted out earlier on." carried on Varric, looking a little uncomfortable.
"You did?" You asked, feeling your heart increase.
"Yes, it was a few years mind," He replied "though he seemed to be alright."
You walked towards Varric eager to hear what he had to say.
"Hawke, Fenris and I were ordered to bring Zevran back to the Antivan Crows," Your eyes narrowed, but you said nothing "we asked the other elves where he was and one lady told us he was residing in a cave not far from here."
"I'll give you all the gems you want." You heard Nori say to Gandalf, though your eyes stayed on Varric's, waiting for him to continue.
"When we reached the cave he was hiding in, we saw many traps in there."
Despite yourself, you started grinning, knowing Zevran had always been good at making traps for any enemy.
"I did find it strange," went on Varric "that for someone that should be keeping a low profile, he was more or less telling the townspeople that he was staying inside a cave. Anyway, as we went deeper in the cave, we fought of spiders and such before we met with the man himself."
A low chuckle could be heard, but you refused to acknowledge anyone else at this precise moment in time.
"Hawke refused to hand Zevran over to the Antivan Crows realising that she had been misinformed regarding your friend's past events. In turn, we ended up killing Nuncio and his men with Zevran's help of course."
To hear that your assassin had evaded death once more brought a smile to your lips. True it was a few years since Varric had seen him, though to hear that Zev was still the same elf you had grown to love, gave you comfort.
"Thank you Varric. Even though you yourself just said it was a while back, it brings me comfort that Zevran is still being himself."
"Anytime stardust," grinned Varric now walking away "anytime."
You just watch his retreating form in confusion.
'Stardust?' You thought 'Where did that come from?'
Turning your head, you saw Bilbo looking forlorn and you found yourself feeling very guilty at the way you had treated him earlier. As you made your way towards the hobbit, you spotted Fili also headed towards Bilbo handing him a bowl of food. This did not deter you however, you knew you should make peace with Bilbo as soon as possible.
"Bilbo," You began, noticing Fili now look at you "I wish to apologise for being so rude to you."
"N-N-No its fine Rila," stuttered Bilbo, going red in the face "you had every reason to raise your voice."
You shook your head not agreeing to that at all.
"I was rude to you Bilbo, therefore, I am offering an olive branch."
The hobbit looked at you with a baffled expression on his face as he held onto the spoon tightly in his right hand.
"A what branch?" He asked, clearly sounding confused.
"An olive branch. It's a figure of speech, it means an offer of reconciliation. You know let bygones be bygones. That sort of thing."
You try and take no notice of the now grinning Fili while you watched Bilbo. You could feel your cheeks go red. Maybe you should have waited to apologise to Bilbo later.
"Oh I see," said Bilbo, gracing you with a smile "well, everything is settled yes?"
Bilbo watched you closely.
"You do appear more relaxed than earlier which is good to see." He points out, now with his own grin on his face.
"Thank Balin and Varric for that." You find yourself saying, glancing at Balin, who was having a conversation with Dwalin.
"Oh I'm so glad my plan worked."
You looked back at Bilbo with an arched eyebrow.
"What are you talking about?" You asked him, catching Fili's smile in the process.
"I just sort of asked Balin to check up on you," You were not amused by this "sometimes it is good to speak to a person you barely know."
"Bilbo!"
"I mean, y-you are aware of Balin but I've never seen the two of you speak to one another, as far as I'm aware anyway...I'll just-,"
Bilbo watched you then looked at the bowl of food he was holding, then walked off, sighing in the process.
"That was peculiar." You admitted, as you watched his retreating form.
"Naw, he was just being himself," remarked Fili "he's not as shy as to when we first met him."
"Oh?"
You turned your attention to Fili, who was studying you.
"When we first met up with him at his home, he was standoffish. Didn't like us touching his cutlery, his food, anything," Fili then grinned at you "which is where the song came to play."
"Song?" You asked, knowing you would regret this.
Fili then explained that before the song, he and the rest of the dwarves were throwing Bilbo's plates to one another, slowly cleaning up after them. Of course Bilbo hated the fact that this was happening to his belongings and demanded that they stop at once.
"I remember Bilbo saying 'Can you not do that, you blunt them' who was referring to the knifes and forks that were currently being banged on the table. Thanks to Bofur and the rest of the company," continued Fili, his grin broadened "that is where the song came to play."
"Well, if it relieves the boredom," You deadpanned "so be it."
Fili had a thoughtful expression on his face as he watched you.
"To think when we first met you Rila, you never uttered a word, what changed?"
You sighed, not knowing how to answer that. You wasn't about to explain why you had kept quiet upon meeting this company. Until recently, you had been used to being on your own and it was still strange being with so many people.
"Life, the universe and everything." You finally replied shrugging your shoulders as you saw Fili frown.
"You have mentioned some of your past that I know could not have been easy for you," whispered Fili "but I can still see the pain in your eyes."
"Well darkspawn does that to you," You replied "it takes away anything good in the world and replaces it with chaos and discord."
"Darkspawn isn't here though." points out Fili.
"Isn't it?"
You turned your head and watched Dorian, who seemed to be in his own world at this present time.
"According to our newcomers," You returned your attention back on Fili "there is an archdemon somewhere in this world."
You furrow your brows and shook your head.
"If there is indeed an archdemon in Middle-earth, you can bet on anything you own, that darkspawn are closely behind it...Dealing with Smaug will be the least of your problems."
~~Fili's POV~~
Even though Rila did make a fair point about this new threat, Fili was at this time more concerned about the lady herself. He like the rest of the company had heard her shout out a name that no one had ever heard before.
'Just who is Zevran?' He thought to himself as Rila excused herself, then went back to her bedroll and belongings.
"Rila."
She turned and looked back at Fili, causing him to swallow hard. Her long dark red hair was gleaming from the sunlight, making her appear like a vision from the higher plain. He watched her as she crossed her arms over chest, waiting for Fili to say what he had to say.
"I, er," Fili stammers, "if you ever want to talk, I'll always listen."
Rila graced him with a smile and then nodded her head, before turning her back on him once more, walking towards her bedroll.
"If you ever want to talk," Fili heard Kili mimic him "I'll always listen."
Fili closed his eyes and groaned. Now was not the time for his brother to start winding him up.
"Fee, I do believe you are losing you're touch," chuckled Kili "normally you are-,"
"Not now Kili," Fili interrupted him "I am not in the mood for your strange mind today."
Kili surprised his brother by slapping him on the back. He had a big grin on his face making Fili roll his eyes. When he had that glint in his eye, he knew Kili was up to something.
"You should just tell our fair companion that you like her."
"It's not like that!" snapped Fili "We are friends nothing more."
"Is that so?" Kili then placed his arm over Fili's shoulder, holding him in place "Keep telling yourself that Fee, I know differently...You like her more than a-,"
"That is not true," hissed Fili, managing to break free from his brothers grasp "I see her as a friend, nothing more. Besides, it seems Rila already has someone special in her life."
"Oh, the name she shouted out earlier on?"
Fili nodded, catching the amused look of Dorian, who was clearly listening in to their conversation.
"Zevpant!" carried on Kili, unaware that Dorian was there.
"That is not the name I heard," points out Fili, "it was...Zevran."
"That's the name," grinned Kili "well, this Zevran isn't here now, so now's your change."
"Kili!"
Laughter made both brothers look at Dorian, who was now in the process of walking up to them.
"Two brothers that are clearly close to one another," smiled Dorian "you are indeed lucky."
"What do you mean?" asked Kili, frowning at this newcomer.
"I am an only child. Though I was happy, well for a time at least, I often wondered what it would be like to have a sibling. That is why you are both lucky. You have one another and long may that continue."
Fili watched Dorian closely and came to the realisation that he wasn't that bad. True they barely knew each other, but looking at this tall man made Fili realise that not all men are bad. He had yet to speak to the other newcomers, Solas and Varric but at this present time, Fili wasn't really bothered about that.
"So," began Dorian, smiling at Fili with glee on his face "you like the Hero of Ferelden do you?"
While Fili groaned again, Kili grinned.
"Yep, my dear brother can't keep his eyes of her."
"Kee!" warned Fili "Don't."
"Do you want my advice?" asked Dorian, looking directly at Fili who just nodded "Get to know her better, than decide if you have genuine feelings for her or just want to be friends."
Dorian then turned his head and looked at the lady herself and sighed.
"I haven't been here long, but I can clearly see how troubled Rila is. Friendship can develop into something more. Though for now, I believe friendship is for the best."
Fili turned his attention to Rila, who was at this second sharpening up her weapons with a stone of some sort. He knew Dorian spoke the truth, Rila did indeed seem troubled and wanted to ease her mind in some way.
'I can start with friendship.' thought Fili, watching her, before making himself look away once more, trying to ignore the smile on Kili's face.
o0o
~~Rila's POV~~
The next few days past by quite fast but you knew it would only be a matter of time before you all moved on. Last night, Gandalf had informed the company that they would all be meeting a skin changer. The topic of your old friend was brought up again by Bilbo this morning.
You smiled, knowing that your friend always kept to himself, but was a most trust worthy sort of man, well to you anyway. You had met Beorn accidently while walking through the lands during the night. The first time you had met him, was while he was a massive black bear and you remembered that as you were about to defend yourself, you looked straight into the bear's eyes and faltered.
In all your life, you had always known that bears had brown eyes. Now though, staring back at this massive bear, you realised this bear had grey eyes. You closed your eyes while Gandalf went on about Beorn to Bilbo, while your own thoughts went back to your old friend once more.
You and the bear seemed to be having a stare contest. Neither one of you moved. You remembered that you were strangely calm and that should have alarmed you, but it never did. You were brought out of your thoughts when you heard Bilbo asking what kind of skin changer Beorn was, when you spoke up.
"Beorn is a black bear. Though I would advise you all not to meet him while in that form. Been there, done that, thank you very much."
"A b-bear?" stammers Bilbo, suddenly looking a little off colour "Oh dear."
"Relax," You continued, getting up from your bedroll "you all will be friends with him in no time...eventually." You added, noticing Gandalf's small smile as you walked up to Bilbo.
"What do you mean eventually?" asked Thorin, crossing his arms over his chest.
You noticed that he always did that when he wanted answers.
"Well, Beorn has issues with other people. It will take a while for you to gain his trust because-,"
"Because I'm a dwarf!" cut in Thorin.
All you could do was nod but you did add,
"It's not just you, it's everyone. He prefers his animals to any outsiders and that is only part of the story here."
"Go on!"
Again you caught Gandalf watching you. He now had a bemused look on his face and it was at this instant, he knew you spoke the truth.
"Why spoil the surprise," You replied, turning your attention back to Thorin "I don't think you would believe me anyway...No, see for yourself, then come back and question me."
It had taken you a while to get used to Beorn's animals. These animals in particular were very unusual and if you had tried explaining that there were dogs that stood on its hind heels helping their host out, you knew there would only be laughter. No, you decided, seeing is believing.
Leaving the conversation, you walked back to your bedroll and started rolling it up. You then made sure everything in your bag was there before doing that up as well. As you turned around, you jumped as both Elladan and Elrohir were behind you.
"You and your elf ways," You remarked, holding onto your bag a little tighter than you should have.
Though your heart was beating at an alarming rate, you did manage to smile at them.
"You could have coughed or something, let me know you were right behind me."
"And where would the fun be in that?" replied Elladan, smiling at you, though it never quite reached his eyes.
You frowned as you noticed both brothers had a sad look in their grey eyes.
"What is the matter?" You finally asked them "If its about Beorn, you do not have to-,"
"Could we speak to you in private?" asked Elrohir, now looking over at the camp.
All you could do was nod your head and began to follow the brothers a little further to where the rest of the company were residing. While you were walking, neither Elladan or Elrohir spoke and that really freaked you out. Normally they would speak non stop about anything of interest. Today though, nothing.
"Come you two, you are beginning to scare me," You said as you looked at both of them as they turned and faced you once more "this is not like you at all."
"We did not mean for that to happen," began Elladan, glancing at his brother "there is something we wish to give you."
You watched both brothers, wondering what they were about to give you. It was Elrohir that held out his hand. He was holding a dark blue pouch bag, waiting for you to take it. With a sigh, you did just that.
The pouch bag felt very soft as your fingers brushed against it. Before you opened the bag, you looked at each of the brothers who urged you to open up the pouch. You hesitated then pulled the strings apart before placing your fingers inside the pouch.
As your hand went inside the bag, you felt a cold item touch your fingers. You slowly pulled this item out of the pouch and looked down. In your palm was a necklace. You furrow your brows as you continued looking at this gift.
"I-I can not accept this." You finally managed to say, though your blue eyes stayed on the necklace.
In your palm was the Elvenstar. The white gem gleamed in your hand as you look at it in wonder. The whole necklace was a beauty and you swallowed hard, before handing it back to Elrohir.
He shook his head, so you then tried handing this very important necklace to Elladan who copied his brother by shaking his head. Though he did place his hand over yours, pressing your fingers down on this unique necklace.
"Though I appreciate the gesture, I can not accept this," You argued, trying to let go of Elladan's hand "this does not belong to me."
"Yes it does," replied Elladan, a little to harshly than attended "Ada insisted that we hand this over to you."
Your eyes went wide. You were not expecting that. Still you knew this necklace was very valuable, you were not the one to wear this beautiful stone. Elrohir was having none of it though.
"Rila, you are a sister to us, therefore we, as a whole that is, offer this pendent as a token of our friendship and family."
Elrohir sighed and you failed to notice the glance he was giving to his brother. Your own eyes were looking down at the Elvenstar once more.
"Since Arwen went with *Emel to Valinor," carried on Elrohir "you have filled up a void in our hearts. It is not only Ada that wishes you to have this, it is all of us."
Though you were still looking at this beautiful keepsake, you shook your head. This was too much for you. You did not deserve this at all.
"I can not accept this. I am unworthy of such a gift." You replied, again trying to return the Elvenstar to either brother.
Elladan took a deep breath and finally granted your wish. You placed the necklace in Elladan's hand and whispered,
"I'm sorry."
With a heavy heart, you turned around thinking the matter was solved. Elladan however, had other ideas. In one swift movement, he moved your long hair to the right side of your shoulder, then placed the Elvenstar around your neck, doing it up in the process. By now you were fuming and managed to swing right around intending to have your say on this matter.
"I told you, I am unworthy of this beautiful gem. This belongs to your people, not me!"
You raised your hands behind your neck and was about take this necklace off when Elladan stopped you by taking both your hands in his.
"You really think so lowly of yourself, don't you?"
You averted your eyes by looking at the ground. The truth was, you did feel like that. You were just a Gray Warden, who should have died and yet you lived in a new world called Middle-earth.
"Rila, you are worthy of this gift," carried on Elladan, gently squeezing your hands "and I will be very offended if you take the Elvenstar off."
"I agree," said Elrohir "the only time you can take this off, is if you hand this over to a person you wholeheartedly love as a token of affection."
You frowned once more. There would never be another person in your life. Even though Zevran could never be with you anymore, he would always have a place in your heart.
"That will never happen." You finally say to your two friends.
Elladan and Elrohir grinned back at you and you resisted the urge to roll your eyes at them both.
"I still think you should have this ba-,"
"No," interrupted Elrohir "the Elvenstar belongs to you now. Please, look after this, my dear *gwathel. You mean everything to us."
Knowing that they had won this battle, you sighed in defeat and nodded your head. First Elladan then Elrohir gave you a massive hug to which you welcomed it.
"Though I'm not happy at the way you did this," You began, freeing yourself from Elrohir "I promise I will look after this for you, until you want this back."
Both brothers only nodded but said nothing. You took on board to what just happened, feeling a little lightheaded. You graced them with a small smile before returning to the rest of the company.
You lifted your right hand around your neck and touched the Elvenstar. You had no idea why you were now wearing this but you had a feeling, there was more too this story than meets the eye.
~~Elrohir's POV~~
As they watched their dear friend and adopted sister walk away, Elrohir sighed.
"That was harder than I thought it was going to be."
"You should know by now, Rila has always been a headstrong girl." replied Elladan, smiling back at Elrohir.
"Not a girl," reasoned Elrohir "a noble lady that has such a heavy heart."
Elladan glanced at his brother and saw the worry on his face.
"You should have told her."
Elrohir sighed and shook his head.
"It will never be. She only sees me as a brother, while I see her as my equal. My heart will always belong to her."
Elladan gently squeezed his brother's shoulder before Elrohir continued speaking,
"I just wish Ada told us what he had seen. The look on his face when he handed over the Elvenstar. That troubles me."
"I agree. I just hope nothing happens," Elladan shook his head "Rila means everything to me. She is family."
Elrohir never said a word as he continued to watch the lady he has grown to love. Both brothers had a somber expression on their faces, hoping that everything would be fine. Though knowing from experience, their father had never been wrong before. Something was coming and both brothers were getting worried.
o0o
~~Rila's POV~~
It was decided that two people at a time were to enter Beorn's house. You were paired up with Dorian but you were not really paying any attention anymore. You quickly fastened your hair in place in a braided bun while Gandalf went on that he and Bilbo would go first then a little later, the next two people would follow suit.
"I don't see the point in this," You heard Gloin say from behind you "why can't we just walk up to him as a group?"
"Because Master Gloin, Beorn could feel threatened if we all arrive together," points out Gandalf "this is the best solution."
"Pfft!" was Gloin's reply, causing you to smirk a little.
Gandalf's idea worked though. When you and Dorian entered, Beorn stood up from where he was sitting while Gandalf explained our story to him and walked over to you. Without any warning, Beorn wrapped his strong arms around you. Even in human form, he was still very strong.
"Finally a face I do remember," said Beorn breaking away from the hug "it is good to see you Rila."
"Likewise my old friend." You replied, smiling up at him.
"Not so much of the old," He fumed, though you knew he was only jesting "later, we shall talk."
You graced him with a smile and nodded your head.
"I will look forward to that."
Little did you know, that would never happen.
o0o
It had been a few hours later since arriving at Beorn's home. Most of the company had gotten used to the dogs and sheep that helped Beorn out. Even though there was a lot of food spread out on the table, you still were not hungry.
In truth, there was a feeling coursing through you. Something felt wrong. You had no idea if it was because of the three newcomers or something else. Thorin was sitting opposite you as was Fili and Kili, though your eyes were surveying the hall. Most of the company were helping themselves to the food, talking quietly to themselves.
Many dogs and sheep were walking to and fro when your blue eyes finally went on Solas. He was looking at Beorn then turned his head, looking at the door, before glancing back at Beorn once more.
Your own eyes went on your host, who was at this point in time, speaking to Gandalf to pay any heed to what Solas was doing. Your eyes went back on Solas noticing him slip away. You did not like this, that feeling you were having was growing.
Grabbing your bag, you got up, taking no notice of the six pair of eyes that were watching you. You knew Solas was up to something and you wanted answers now. Just as you were about to walk away, Thorin stopped you in your tracks.
"What is it?"
Without glancing in his direction, you replied,
"I'm not sure, " You admitted "just a feeling I have. Please excuse me."
You failed to notice the line of Durin get up and follow you from a distance. Just as you were about to reach the door, Elladan and Elrohir came up to you.
"Where are you going?" Elladan asked, sounding a little worried, you realised.
You knew lying to him would never work. Sighing you explained how Solas had been watching Beorn, then at the door and so forth.
"After what Gandalf said about him and this Elven artifact, I can't help feeling uneasy around Solas."
"He's not that bad stardust," replied Varric, heading towards you and the brothers as did, Dorian, Thorin, Fili and Kili you realised "he just acts aloof around others. Don't let his somber expression fool you. He does smile sometimes."
You knew Varric was only trying to reassure you but you were not fooled. For some strange reason, you just could not trust him.
"Either way," You began "it would ease my mind as to where he has wandered off too. Soon it will be nightfall," You looked back at Beorn "meaning that our host will soon change form."
"I see your point," agreed Dorian "might I suggest we tag along?"
You frowned as you returned your attention to the little group in front of you.
"I am quite capable of-,"
"Yes, I am aware of that," interrupted Dorian "but Solas is-,"
"An elf!" spat out Thorin.
Before an argument developed between Thorin and Elladan who at this second was glaring back at the dwarf in question, you sighed in defeat saying,
"Fine, you can come."
Elladan moved aside as you opened the door only to be stopped by Elrohir. He shocked you by embracing you, holding you tightly.
"Please be safe," He whispered in your ear, pulling apart from you a little "you-,"
He swallowed hard as you watch one another. Elrohir surprised you even more by cupping your left cheek.
"You mean a lot to me...to us I mean. Please don't do anything rash."
Placing your own hand over his, you smiled at him.
"I only want to see what Solas is up too. I'll be back before you know it."
You could see the worry in Elrohir's blue eyes and that stunned you. Never have you seen him act this way towards you or anyone else for that matter. Leaning closer to him, you gave him a kiss on the cheek, feeling him tighten his hold on you.
"I'll be fine." You whispered back.
You could tell that it was hard when Elrohir did release you. His thumb brushed against your jawline as he said,
"Please be careful."
With that, he moved aside leaving you confused, though you forced yourself to look for Solas. The smell of honey filled your senses as you re-entered the garden. Glancing around, you could not see Solas anywhere and that was troubling you.
"What sort of person is Solas?" You asked both Dorian and Varric, while looking at the many beehives around the garden.
"He is an elf, what more do you want?"
You spun around with wide eyes. Standing behind you were Thorin, Fili and Kili.
"What in the Makers name are you doing here?" You demanded to know, now glaring at them.
No one said a word.
"Go back inside," You argued "it does not take the six of us to see what is happening."
"I do not trust any elf, therefore I am coming with you," replied Thorin "subject closed."
"Subject clo-,"
"Let's just look for Solas," butted in Varric "then you can have your words with your friend," Varric looked at Thorin and graced him with a smile "another time."
Clenching your bag, you turned around once more shaking your head in disdain. This was really getting ridiculous. At least you had a reason why you wanted to know what Solas was up too. Thorin however, clearly hated every single elf in Middle-earth and you had no idea why that was.
Walking in silence in the garden, you look around for any sign of this elusive elf when you shivered. That feeling you had, was growing stronger by the second. Beorn's garden was massive, though you felt really uneasy all of a sudden.
"There he is," said Dorian, breaking this strange atmosphere "Solas, what are you up too this time?"
Standing a little further to you stood the elf in question. He glanced up from what he was looking at and frowned.
"You should know me by now Dorian, I sensed another Elven artifact and I was right."
Walking up to him, you saw a strange looking green orb lying on the grass. It was completely round and on close inspection was very muddy. Never in your entire life, have you seen this sort of thing before.
It appeared that at one time, this orb had been connected to something. There was a piece of broken metal around one side of the orb. One things was certain, this artifact certainly gave you the creeps.
"Turning this on should help our cause," remarked Solas, now bending down "I can sense its power and it will strengthen the veil."
You frowned, not understanding what he was talking about. Just as you were about to ask him, you watched him as he touched the orb and a green hue came from nowhere, enveloping you and everyone near. Sudden lighting came from nowhere from the sky and you knew danger was around the corner.
"Well, that's not good." said Varric before the green hue consumed you all.
o0o
You took in deep breaths when you could smell bacon and sausage in the air. Somehow, you were lying on the earth when you knew only a moment ago, you were standing, in fact everyone was standing.
"Is everyone alright?" came a voice to your right.
Though you did hear someone reply, you slowly sat up and instinctively looked at the sky. Not only was it now night time, you sensed something was amiss.
"Where are we?" asked Fili.
Getting up, you quickly checked to make sure your swords and other weapons were still on your person, before turning to face the rest of the company.
"I do not think we are in Beorn's garden anymore." You say, looking around.
"Put it out you fools!" You heard someone shout out "Put it out!"
"What was that?" asked Dorian.
This made you more alert. The smell of meat was all wrong. In all the time you have known Beorn, he has never eaten meat of any kind.
"No, definitely not in Beorn's garden." You muttered to yourself.
Something felt very wrong here, that was for sure.
"Where in Durin's name are we?...Why is it dark here?" asked a very irate Thorin.
You were very relieved to see that everyone was fine and you were about to reply to Thorin, when you all heard a horrible wailing noise.
"What was that?" asked Dorian, grabbing hold of his staff.
Turning to the source of the noise, you replied,
"Trouble."
You spotted fire that went out just as fast. Someone else was around here and whoever that was, was in danger. Drawing out your sword, you quickly headed in the direction where you knew you saw the fire.
"Where are you going?" asked Thorin, though you were already running on ahead to answer him.
This was not right at all. You now recognised the area. Instead of being in Beorn's garden, you were now staring up at the watch tower of Amon. Placing your bag around your shoulders, you would worry about why you were here later, especially when another cry could be heard coming from up the tower. You quickened your pace, not noticing the others were right behind you.
As you reached the top of the tower, your eyes widened. There were four hobbits huddled together while the Nazgl that you had read about, were heading straight towards them. What was going on here? These Ringwraiths should not be here, yet here they were, about to attack these hobbits.
The Nazgl near the hobbits drew his own sword out and held it before his face. Glancing around, you could see more of these Nazgl getting ready to fight. Meanwhile, the hobbits were holding onto their own weapons, looking absolutely frightened.
"Back off you devils!" shouted one of the hobbits.
This was your cue. Just as the Nazgl was about to strike, you instantly deflected his attack on the hobbit that had just spoken with your sword and you knew they were here for a reason.
You blocked and parried around the advancing Ringwraiths, pushing two of the hobbits away from this fight. Fighting these beings was hard, but you never faltered. You could see from the corner of your eye, that Fili and Kili were also fighting them. You just wanted to protect these hobbits.
A cry in the dark made you turn around and see a man holding a burning torch who was waving it around the Nazgls, who you realised was scared of this action. They soon retreated, leaving. A groan made you look back when you saw a hobbit come from nowhere wincing in pain.
"Frodo!"
While the man continued chasing after the Nazgls, you ran up to the hobbit that had been injured in this strange fight, noticing the other hobbits running up to him. The hobbit that was injured spotted his friend and whispered,
"Oh Sam!"
Placing your sword back in its sheath, you bent down, taking no notice of the startled looks you were now receiving. You could see that he had been stabbed and this was not good news.
"He has been poisoned." You lamented, frowning at the stab wound on his shoulder.
"Strider!" shouted the same hobbit from before "Help him Strider!"
The man in question ran up to the hobbit and frowned. You all watched as he picked up a sword from the ground, inspecting it.
"He's been stabbed by a Morgul blade," the man admitted, confirming your fears "this is beyond my skill to heal. He needs elvish medicine."
Being stabbed by a Ringwraith was indeed bad news, without immediate treatment, you knew this brave hobbit would become like them, a Nazgl. You now felt eyes on you when you took your bag from your shoulders and started rummaging through your items.
"Who are you?" asked the man, sounding very suspicious, you noted.
"Well, clearly not you're enemy," came your reply, finally finding the little bottle you were searching for "um, could you prop your friend up please?"
You looked at the sandy haired hobbit who looked back at you with suspicion in his eyes.
"W-Why?" He stammers, looking at you then at the hobbit named Frodo "What will you do to him?"
"I'm trying to save your friend." came your reply.
"Stardust, what are you about to do?" asked Varric, looking over your shoulder.
"Aye," You heard Thorin say "What is the meaning of this?"
"Thorin, not now!" You replied, though your eyes stayed on the injured hobbit "though I know this won't completely heal your friend," You finally add to the hobbit watching you "this potion should relieve his discomfort for a while...Now, could you prop him up?"
You watch the hobbit turn his attention to the man named Strider next to you, before he gently moved his friends head a little. You took out the cork from the bottle and leaned forward, opening the hobbits mouth. You poured the contents down which made the hobbit cough a little.
"Yes, sorry about that, this health potion does have a kick to it," You admitted, before turning your head towards the man who seemed to be studying you "it will only slow the poison down, he still needs treatment, fast!"
Without saying a word, this man picked the injured hobbit up, while you quickly pulled the strings on your bag. Getting up, you spotted Solas watch the hobbits and your eyes narrowed.
You knew you be having words with this elf later, but right now, your concern was on this hobbit. Though you did wonder, why you were at the watch tower Amon. It really made no sense to you.
A/N:*Emel means mother. That is according to the internet search, please forgive me if I am wrong.
*Gwathel means sister.