Beyond the Ninth Wave

"Cloudburst"

Part 1

"Is it ever going to stop raining, Mama?" The hobbit child questioned. His blue eyes were gloomy as he stared out through the round window he stood beside.

Pearl grinned at her son. "Don't be a goof, Sammy. Of course, it will stop." She had started calling him "Sammy" sometime after his fifth birthday, due to the confusion that ensued whenever Samwise Gamgee was around. She would call for her son, and the gardener would answer. Likewise, Rose Gamgee would call for her husband, and little Samwise Baggins would come running. The shortened nickname spared quite a bit of confusion.

Sammy sighed and turned around. He looked at the portrait of his Father, hanging over the mantle. "I had another dream about Papa."

Pearl stopped sketching and stared at her son. "Oh? What was this one about, dumpling?"

Sammy kept staring at Frodo's portrait as he spoke. He wore an expression that seemed too mature for a seven year old. "He was stepping out of a mist?or a fog. He looked kind of?I don't know, surprised? I could hear the ocean, and there was a big ship behind him. Like the elf ship you said he left on. He had a gray streak in his hair."

Pearl's heart began to hammer in her chest. Little Samwise had always seemed to have a strange connection to his Father. The child often had nightmares about Frodo and Sam senior's adventures. Pearl and Rosie were very careful not to let the children know too much about those dark years, yet Sammy had often told her things about his dreams that were never described in tales to him. He had seen Gollum, though nobody had ever told him of the creature. He described him in the same way Frodo had.

Sammy's unusual perception didn't stop with Frodo. The lad seemed equally connected to the Shire folk. He had woken up from his nap one day, crying that Uncle Pippin was hurt. He wouldn't calm down until Pearl asked him to lead her to where he saw Pippin in his dream. To her surprise, she found her brother just where Sammy said she would; in a culvert with a broken arm, just outside of Green hill Country. His pony had thrown him when a stray dog lunged out from the bushes at it.

That was not by far the last time Sammy had sensed danger. The lad saved Elanor Gamgee from a falling branch once, as well. There was no indication that the limb of the oak the children played under was weak, but Sammy rushed out of the house after an afternoon nap and called to Elanor, asking her to come into the house and play with him. This in itself wouldn't have been so strange, but for the look of terror on Sammy's face as he called to her. His blue eyes had remained glued on the tree as she skipped over to him. As soon as Elanor reached the threshold of Brandy Hall, there was a tremendous crack, and the heavy branch she had just been playing under crashed to the ground. It took an hour to calm Rosie's hysterics, for she saw the entire thing and realized she could have lost her daughter.

"Mama, you believe me, don't you?" Sammy's voice said.

Pearl shook herself out of it and nodded at her enigmatic little son. "You know I do, darling. Tell me, when you saw Papa, was there anyone with him? An old man with a long beard, or a tall, golden haired elf woman?" She thought perhaps he had seen a vision of him before he left.

Wide-eyed, Sammy shook his head. "Nuh-uh. I would remember people like that. He came alone, I think...but there was someone waiting for him."

Pearl put aside her sketch and knelt down in front of her son. "Could you see who was waiting for him?"

A clap of thunder boomed from the heavens, making the windows rattle. Pearl jumped and gave a little squeak, but Sammy was unfazed by it. "No, Mama. I didn't see anyone but Papa. It was too foggy."

Pearl closed her eyes, wondering what it could mean. Samwise said that the Frodo in his dream had gray in his hair. Frodo's thick, dark curls didn't have so much as a strand of gray in it when he had left for the undying lands. Was her son having visions of the ring bearer's return to Middle Earth? Was it just his imagination? How far into the future was it?

She could have pondered this all day long, if it weren't for Merry and Pippin stumbling through the front door. "It's wetter than a marsh out there!" Exclaimed Pippin, shaking his soaked hair like a dog. Pearl shrieked as she was splattered with water, and Sammy giggled.

"You did that on purpose!" The child said as Pippin grinned down at him.

Merry gave the lad a wicked smile. "Would you rather him have done this?" And he lifted Sammy and began to tickle him.

Sammy squealed and wriggled, but Merry wouldn't relent. He goosed the child until his face was bright red and he was breathless with laughter.

"Meriadoc," Said Pearl warningly. The Brandybuck always made Sammy hyper when he played with him, and she had a mess of trouble getting her son to go to sleep at night, as a result.

"Uncle Merry, I need to pee!" Cried Sammy as a fresh bout of giggling shook him.

"Whoa! Alright, lad...you win this round." Merry said, chuckling as he set the boy back onto his feet.

Sammy took off towards the hallway leading to the privy, but tripped on the edge of the carpet. He fell to the floor with an "Oof!"

"There now, you see what you did to my boy?" Pearl snapped at Merry, though she was grinning as she picked her son up off of the floor. Sammy was blushing in embarrassment from his tumble, but was unhurt.

"It's like Uncle Merry says, Mama. I in...in-herit-ed the Took family?s grace." Sammy said, trying to take the blame off of his uncle.

"Took family?s grace, eh?" Said Pippin with a glower, "I shall remember that!"

"So will I!" Hollered Pearl, and she threw a pillow from the couch at Merry.

Merry ducked the flying pillow and gave Sammy a look of mock betrayal. "Look at the trouble you've gotten me into, pest!"

Solemnly, Sammy said, "You should run, Uncle Merry."

-To be continued

~*************~

"Cloudburst"

Part 2

Insulting a house full of Tooks wasn't the smartest thing to do. While Sammy rushed to the privy to relieve himself, Pippin tackled Merry, and Pearl picked up the discarded pillow she had thrown and pummeled him with it.

"Aaahh! Uncle! Uncle! I give up!" Shouted Merry when Pearl began to draw a mustache on him with her sketching charcoal. Normally, neither Pippin or his sister would have been able to hold Merry down for long, but with both of them hampering him, he was at their mercy. Soon, he sported a beard to match the mustache.

"Give him cat whiskers now, Pearl!" Laughed Pippin.

She happily obliged, even going so far as to write, "Meow" on his forehead.

Sammy emerged from the hallway, saw the fun, and shouted, "Revenge!"

"Oh, no!" Groaned Merry as the child lunged at him.

Now he was in a sore mess. With Pippin holding his legs and hips down, Pearl sitting on his chest and doodling all over his face and neck, and Sammy goosing him, Meriadoc was sorely outmatched.

"Had enough?" Giggled Sammy as tears of helpless laughter rolled down Merry's cheeks.

"Y-yes! I give!" Merry cried.

Laughing heartily, his family let him up. "Never insult a Took," He muttered, shaking his head and grinning.

"Hey, look at that! The clouds broke!" Said Pippin happily. All eyes turned to the lounge room window.

"See, dumpling? The sun is coming out again, just as I said it would," Pearl said as she gave her son a hug. Almost on cue, there was a knock at the door.

"That'll be Uncle Samwise," Said Sammy matter-of-factly.

"But we're supposed to be visiting Hobbiton this month. Did he forget whose turn it is?" Wondered Pearl aloud. She was about to warn Merry that he shouldn't answer the door in his state, but changed her mind and grinned like a cat instead.

Merry pulled the door open to find that it was Sam Gamgee, as the little one predicted. The gardener opened his mouth to say something, but froze instead. His eyebrows shot up into his golden curls, and a broad grin slowly spread on his lips. "Hullo there, Mrs. Brandybuck. Is Merry in?"

Merry furrowed his brow. "What? Oh! Ah, I forgot. I was ambushed and attacked by a mad sketcher."

Sam covered his eyes and laughed. "It's an improvement."

"Bah! Get in here, tubby!" Said Merry as he pulled Sam in by the arm.

Samwise looked down at his belly and smirked ruefully. "It's Rosie's cooking, I tell you!"

In truth, he was only slightly heavier than he was at the beginning of the ring war...it was an on-going joke between him and Merry.

"Is everything okay? We weren't expecting to see you until we came to Hobbiton for next week," Said Pearl in a worried tone.

"Oh, everything's better than okay," Sam said as Pippin took his wet coat. "I've been elected as Mayor again, and Rosie had the baby! It's a boy this time, and we've named him Frodo."

Pearl put a hand to her mouth. "I didn't realize it was that close to her time! How wonderful, Sam!"

"Well done, chap!" Merry cried, pounding the gardener on the back. "This calls for some Brandy!"

As Merry ran to the kitchen to get the drinks, Pippin snickered, "And folks wonder why this place is called 'Brandy Hall'. It's not because of the family name!"

Sam laughed and sat down in the reclining chair he always claimed when he came for a visit. As usual, little Sammy clamored onto his lap, and the gardener put his arm around the child. "You're growing taller, but not much wider," Samwise said to the lad.

Sammy grinned. "Grandma says I'll be skinny, like Papa."

The gardener tweaked the child's honey colored curls and smiled wistfully. "Your Grandma's probably right." He still found it amazing that the child spoke so freely of the Father he had never met...as though Frodo was simply away on a holiday, and would be home at any moment. It broke his heart.

He cleared his throat gruffly as Merry returned and handed out glasses of Brandy.

"Here's to Samwise Gamgee, his success, and his ever-growing brood!" Merry called out.

Laughing, Pearl said, "And to Merry learning to keep his thoughts to himself!"

"I'll drink to that!" Shouted Pippin, and Samwise smirked and nodded.

As the adults raised their glasses to their lips, Sammy thought that he should add his own toast. "And here's to Papa coming home, because he is. I dreamed about it."

Samwise senior choked on his brandy and coughed. Merry and Pippin went still, with their glasses half-raised to their lips. Pearl downed her brandy in three quick swallows, wondering how she was going to explain her son's statement to the others.

-To be continued

~***********~

"Cloudburst"

Part 3

Samwise helped Pearl tuck her son into bed later that night. The gardener hadn't said anything about Sammy's prediction, but his expression said he had dozens of questions.

"Goodnight, little elfling," Pearl said as she planted a kiss on Sammy's soft cheek. "Sleep well."

"Goodnight, Mamma. Goodnight, Uncle Samwise." The child said with a yawn. Pearl was amazed at how easily he fell off to sleep. Normally, Merry's antics kept Sammy going all night long.

"The guest room is ready for you when you get tired, Sam." Pearl said as they closed Sammy's door and started down the hallway. Sam nodded, looking at her from the corner of his eye. She shivered involuntarily.

"So, is the little scamp tucked in now?" Asked Pippin once the two of them came back into the lounge room.

Pearl nodded. "Yes, he seemed to be worn out. I'm worried about these dreams of his, Pip. He's been having them constantly...every night and even when he naps. I think they are exhausting him."

Merry took a drag from his pipe and said, "Don't worry your pretty head, Pearl. I'm sure it's just a phase. He'll grow out of it."

Pearl sighed. "I hope you're right, Meriadoc. I don't know how to handle it when he says things like what he said this afternoon. It makes me hope he's right, and...and I don't want to get my hopes up and get hurt."

Sam finally spoke up. "Pearl, could little Sammy be right? He's been right about so many other things, and you told me yourself he's described things that he couldn't rightly know about. He even saved my little Elanor's life with his predictions! What if it's true?" The gardener's voice rose just a bit, and his excitement was evident. He wanted Frodo to come back as badly as Pearl did.

"Sam, please calm down," Said Merry seriously, leaning forward in his chair. "The problem is that sometimes Sammy's dreams are * just * dreams."

Pippin said, "Yes, but most of them are real visions! I think Sam is onto something, Merry! We should go to the Grey Havens, just to be sure. What if Frodo does come back, and none of us are there to greet him? What if something happens to him on the road home? What if-"

Merry quickly crossed the room to the couch and put his arms around his lover. "Pip, you're getting ahead of yourself! It's just a 'what if' for now. If you'll recall, Sammy has reoccurring dreams if it is a true vision and is important. I'm sure this is no different!" He gave Pearl and Sam a sympathetic look. "I know you miss him. We all do, but think about what you're saying. If it is just a dream, you would be traveling all that way, risking putting yourself in danger, for nothing. How would you feel then?" He passed a hand over his eyes, and Pearl noticed that the hand was shaking. So, Merry was unsettled, too. His eyes were shiny with unshed tears as he looked at them again. "As much as I want to believe the little fellow really saw a vision, I think we should wait and see if he has another one. Please...for Sammy's sake. Don't go rushing off until you at least more than 'hope' it's true, alright?"

Silence filled the room, heavy and oppressive. Pearl forced a smile. "Alright, Merry. You're right...we can't just go running off to the Grey Havens like it's some sort of picnic."

He sighed in relief and relaxed, leaning his head on Pippin's shoulder. Pippin bit his lip and looked like he wanted to weep. "But, I never even got a chance to say goodbye. He didn't tell Merry and I he was going...he just snuck off." It wasn't an argument so much as a complaint.

"He didn't even tell me," Pearl said softly, staring at the smoke curling from Merry's pipe. "He couldn't stand the thought of arguing. He originally only told Sam. I think that Frodo reckoned he couldn't go through with it, if we were all there. He needed to go, Pippin. Even I know that."

Pippin nodded, but he didn't look any happier. Merry petted his hair soothingly. "Look at it as a compliment, luv. He wouldn't have been able to leave us behind, that's all. We're too irresistible."

Sam rolled his eyes and snorted, and Pearl coughed with laughter at Merry's unexpected statement. Pippin managed a tiny smile and snuggled up to Merry. "You're right. He wouldn't have been able to do it, if we were there." The youngest Took said.

Pearl was awoken by a sharp scream in the next room. She sat bolt upright, her heart in her throat. "Sammy," She whispered, and then she charged out of her bedroom and into his. Her son was writhing on the bed, screaming his lunges out.

"Papa, don't go near it! It's bad!" Sammy sobbed.

Pearl took her son in her arms and shook him gently. "Sammy! Samwise...wake up, my little elfling! It's a nightmare."

Pippin and Merry fairly flew into the room, alarm making both pairs of eyes wide. "Is he alright?" Questioned Pippin. Samwise came quickly behind them.

Sammy's eyes were glazed when they opened, and he whimpered, "It's after Papa...it wants to use him to hurt people!"

"Maybe I should fetch a glass of water?" Sam said from the doorway. His face was shiny with sweat...the child's fit reminded him too much of the ones Frodo used to have after the ring was destroyed.

"Yes, water would be good, Sam," Pearl said in a quivering voice. She stroked her son's hair and murmured nonsense to him to soothe him. Tears fell from her eyes.

"Do you think he's seeing something that happened to Frodo in the past?" Whispered Pippin to Merry. He was having a hard time following the broken cries of the child. Merry could only shake his head in confusion.

"Papa!! Papa...it isn't Mama! Run away!" Sammy let out one last, bloodcurdling scream of terror and collapsed against his Mother, unconscious. Pearl looked up at her brother and cousin, her mouth twisted in terror.

"You can't tell me that was just a dream, Meriadoc Brandybuck!" She cried hoarsely.

Merry said nothing. It was clear to all of them that Sammy had not been screaming about some past danger. Whatever the boy had seen was either happening now, or would be in the near future.

-To be continued

~***********~

"Cloudburst"

Part 4

"If you do this, you cannot come back," Galadriel had warned him. Her lovely eyes were shadowed with foreboding.

"I know," He replied. "But, I cannot be without them anymore."

Galadriel lowered her eyes. "You take a great risk, ring bearer...returning this soon. Your time here has healed your wounds, but it may not be enough. I do not believe you have stayed long enough for the healing to fully remain. It could all be undone, once you set foot on Middle Earth again."

He nodded slowly. "Yes. Going back now means risking the return of my old pains, yet staying here most certainly means exchanging the pain of my old wounds for the pain of being kept away from those whom I need the most. I cannot risk returning too late. You've said yourself that seven years have passed in Middle Earth, yet here, it has only been two. I do not want to wait longer, and return to find everyone I knew long dead."

Galadriel sighed, brushing her fingers through Frodo's hair. She stared in fascination at the single, gray lock that tumbled with the rest of his curly mane around his sweet face. "Things are so different for mortals," She whispered. "Very well, Frodo. I see that you are set in your course. I will arrange passage back to Middle Earth for you. I suggest you say your goodbyes to those you love here."

And so, Frodo explained things to Bilbo and Gandalf. They were very supportive and understanding. Gandalf seemed to have been expecting it, and Bilbo simply said, "Give everyone my regards, dear boy. I shall miss you."

So here he was, sailing home. He touched his left shoulder, where a perfectly healed, thin scar resided. The ring finger of his right hand had never grown back, of course, but his stab wound finally closed and completely healed as naturally as a normal cut. He wondered if that would last, once he reached the shores of Middle Earth. A smile found its way onto his lips. It did not matter so much, now. All he wanted was to be home, with Pearl and Samwise and however many children the loyal gardener had fathered by now...not to mention Merry and Pippin. Perhaps this whole migration to the Blessed Realms served more as a lesson to him?he was beginning to believe that the true healing was in finding what was most important.

"How is he?" Questioned Samwise.

"Much better, thanks to that tea you brewed for him. It seems to have calmed him down." Pearl answered. She stroked her son's forehead as she leaned over him.

"Mamma?"

"Yes, dumpling?"

"Please go save Papa. He's going to be in trouble...I just know it!" The child's eyes were pleading, and his lips quivered.

"Sammy, what is it that you saw?" She asked gently. She felt in her bones that the lad wasn't simply hallucinating or having a bad dream. He was generally quite good at distinguishing the difference between a dream and a vision.

His tiny face scrunched up as he concentrated. "It's hard to see. There's something bad waiting for Papa. It's old, Mama. As old as most elves! It hates him. It knew he was coming back...it could sense it, like I could. It wants revenge. Please, take your necklace with you?the pretty one Papa gave you. I keep seeing a mirror breaking. You have to break the mirror with your necklace."

Sammy's blue eyes turned to his Uncle Samwise. "You need to be there too, Uncle Sam. You've got something important that you always keep with you...it helped you a lot in Mordor."

Samwise frowned, trying to put the pieces of the puzzle together. Surely the boy couldn't mean his rope? He kept that stored away safely. His cloak? No, he did not wear that all of the time, either. The only thing left was the phial of Galadriel. Yes, that had to be it. It was in a special pocket he had Rosie sew into his vest. Testing, for he wanted to be absolutely positive the lad wasn't delirious, he said, "What does this thing look like, that I'm supposed to have? Can you describe it to us, Sammy?"

The child looked uncertain. "It...it's hard to describe, because it's so bright in all of the pictures in my head, I can't see a shape to it. It's as bright as a star, but it doesn't hurt to look at it."

Samwise sucked in a sharp breath and withdrew the phial. "Well, I'm convinced. We never told any of the children about the elvish gifts we got in Lothlorien...or anyone else in the Shire, for that matter." He said an elvish phrase, and the crystal in his hand flared to life, bathing the room in a beautiful, wholesome glow. Sammy's mouth dropped open and he stared in delight.

"Do you mean, this is real? Frodo is truly coming back, and he's in trouble?" Spouted Pippin with a half-joyful, half panicked look on his face.

Merry nodded. "I stand corrected. The question now is, what should we do? It sounds as though some old enemy is after our Frodo, but who? To the best of my knowledge, Gollum is dead-" A quick, decisive nod from Samwise confirmed this, "-and Sauron was destroyed with the One Ring. The Nazgul surely went with him, and Saruman died years ago. Who could it possibly be?"

Samwise rubbed the bridge of his nose. "I wish I knew, Merry. It must be somebody powerful, to get little Sammy so worked up...especially if we need elf magic to fight it."

"Could it be that one of them isn't dead, after all?" Questioned Pearl anxiously. The three men looked at each other, each weighing the possibilities.

Sammy startled them out of it. "There isn't time!" The child cried, tears forming in his eyes again. "You all have to go now!"

"Shhh...alright, little one. Calm down. We will. But, you can't go with us," Pearl said.

"He can stay with Mother and Father," Said Pippin.

"But what will we tell them?" Pearl huffed. "My son has been having premonitions about his dead father, and we have to save his ghost from some threat we don't even know about?" The Took family was convinced Frodo was dead, and they didn't believe Sammy had a gift so much as an overactive imagination.

Pippin shrugged. "No, we can tell them we're going to see Rosie. Let's just say Elanor has the flu, and we don't want Sammy to catch it."

Pearl raised her eyebrows. "Oh, that's a good idea, Pip!" She turned to Sammy. "Will you be alright staying with your Grandparents while we go to the Grey Havens?"

He nodded. "Yes, Mamma. Just hurry, please!"

Thus decided, Sam, Merry and Pippin gathered supplies and packed while Pearl took Sammy to her parent's home. Her Mother was instantly suspicious, asking all sorts of questions about why they were setting off so late at night, what was so important that they had to go and see Rose now, and why was Pearl still wearing trousers? Pearl dodged and slid through the barrage of inquiries like an eel, and finally her Mother gave up with an exasperated toss of her hands.

He could see the shoreline. Frodo's heart lifted, and he breathed in the scent of land. Home! He was home again! Granted, it was no short trek to the Shire from here, but there were places to stop and rest on the way, and he had plenty of Lembas and money, thanks to his friends in Valinor. He leaned on the rail anxiously as the ship drew closer and closer to the shore. "Pearl...Sam," He whispered, closing his eyes. They would not be there to greet him, of course; for nobody save those in the Blessed Realm knew that he was coming home.

He barely contained the urge to jump into the water and swim the rest of the way. He fiddled impatiently, drumming his fingers on the smooth wood of the railing. Finally, the ship slowed and stopped, dropping its wing-shaped boarding ramp gracefully onto the beach. As he eagerly descended, a thick fog began to roll in from the tree lines. "How odd," Frodo thought. He was too happy and excited to be home again to feel alarm. It was late evening, and the sun had almost set. Humph...so, he'd have to make camp on the beach, or travel at night. That did not bother him. He still had Sting, though why he took it with him in the first place was a mystery even to himself. Another memoir he could not let go of, he supposed.

One furry foot touched the shore, and then the other. He wiggled his toes in the sand, grinning. Normal. It didn't sing with life as the earth in the Undying lands did. It was plain, normal sand. He rotated his left shoulder carefully, testing for any sign of the old, familiar ache. Nothing. No coldness, no stiffness, only the slight tightness from the scar tissue. He raised his arms and clapped his hands above his head, looking like a fool. He did not care. All right...so there was a little stiffness in the joint, when he did that, but he expected no less. A normal knife wound would probably have the same effect, even after healing. He would simply have to exercise it every day.

He closed his eyes and tilted his head back, lowering his arms until they were strait out to the sides. Then he began to spin. If someone had come up to him and asked him what in the Shire he was doing that for, he probably would have giggled like a lad and said, "Because, it's fun!"

He continued to spin around in circles, paying no attention as the white ship retracted its wing and began to sail back to where it came from. He finally stopped, dizzy, and staggered around laughing. The fog that before was staying in the trees had begun to creep up onto the bank. Frodo shook his head and peered at the vapor, beginning to feel a little uncomfortable. It was behaving in an almost sentient manner.

Then he heard a voice. A voice he had longed for since the day he set foot on the soil of the Blessed Realms. "Frodo? Frodo, are you there? I can't see you!"

The ring bearer's sapphire eyes lit up with joy and surprise. How did Pearl know to meet him here? It did not matter...she was here! "Pearl! Where are you? This fog is so thick, I shan't be able to find you if you don't keep calling to me!"

"I'm by the trees, Frodo! Where are you?"

"I'm coming to you, Pearl!" He half-ran towards the trees, careful not to launch himself full speed, for he would not be able to see any rocks or roots in time to avoid tripping, if he wasn't at least a little cautious.

"Hurry, Frodo! I've missed you so much! Come to my embrace."

Frodo slowed down a bit at that last call. There was something almost sibilant in the tone, and it did not sound like something Pearl would normally say. "Pearl, are you well? You don't sound like yourself," He called. What if someone was holding her hostage and making her call out to him? That would certainly account for the odd, hissing sound in her voice.

"Everything is fine, Frodo! I just cannot see you in the darkness!"

Just to be safe, Frodo pulled at the hilt of Sting, bringing it out of the sheath by only a half an inch. He sighed in relief. It did not glow. How silly was he being? Laughing the slight unease he had felt off, he called out, "I'm sorry, Kitten, I'll be right there! I cannot wait to see you again!"

-To be continued

~**********~

Cloudburst"

Part 5

Something pulled at Frodo as he moved closer to where the voice was coming from. It was strange, as if some invisible, small presence was screaming a warning to him. He cocked his head, listening with narrowed eyes. There was nothing but the ocean breeze blowing through the trees, and the sound of rustling, which must be Pearl. The warning he thought he heard was probably just a seagull's cry, somewhere in the distance. He thought he saw movement up ahead, and he smiled.

"Pearl? Can you see me yet?" He said as he hurried forward. The fog, quite suddenly and eagerly, flowed out from the trees and wrapped around him. Now he was beginning to feel alarmed. This most certainly was not natural. "Pearl?" He said again, a bit uncertainly. "Where are you?"

A voice, almost female, but otherworldly and sibilant at the same time, spoke to him. "I'm right behind you, darling."

Gasping, he whirled around and reached for his blade in the same moment. A dark shape rose up in his vision and bowed over him, and his mouth went slack with horror. "Elbereth," He moaned as a sharp stab of pain hit his lower back. His eyes rolled up, and he fell to the ground.

"There he is! I see him!" Cried Sam as they approached the shoreline. "Mr. Frodo!"

Pearl gasped when she caught sight of the small figure lying on his stomach in the sand. Were they too late? She kicked her pony to top speed, heedless of any danger that might be in the area.

"Pearl, wait!" Yelled Pippin, and he was after her, followed by Merry.

She reached Frodo directly after Samwise did. The gardener carefully rolled the ring bearer over and examined him. "Mr. Frodo?" Sam said softly, feeling his neck for a pulse. "He's alive," he breathed in relief.

Frodo stirred and opened his eyes. The blue orbs blinked in confusion, then went wide. "Sam? Oh, Sam, there was something here! It came out of the fog after I landed on the shore, and I think it might have Pearl!"

Pearl grabbed her lover's hand. "No, Frodo...I'm right here! I'm fine!"

He sat up groggily, touching her face. "Pearl, thank goodness! We have to get out of here?now! Something powerful is nearby...it attacked me, but it did not kill me!"

"Of course, it didn't kill you, Mr. Frodo...you're safe with us, now." Soothed Samwise.

"The trees," Merry said grimly, striking up a torch. Pippin followed suit.

"Pearl, stay here with Mr. Frodo. I'll go with Merry and Pip to look. Galadriel's phial might yet prove handy."

She nodded; too overwhelmed at Frodo's return and the present danger they were in to argue. Frodo leaned against her, holding the hilt of his sword as his eyes followed the three walking towards the tree line. "What did your attacker look like, Frodo?" Pearl whispered.

He frowned. "I could not see them that well, to be honest. All I remember is a black shape pouncing on me, and then I woke up to find you and Sam." He shivered and put his arm around her.

"Why did you think your attacker had me, then?"

"I...don't know. I suppose I was just panicked and delirious." He answered softly. His skin did feel rather hot against hers. She hoped he wasn't coming down with a fever. She started to say something, but he shushed her. "Look, they've found something!" He stood up and drew Sting, anticipating danger.

Sam led the way with the light from the phial as they approached. Pippin held something black that seemed to ruffle in the breeze. As they drew near, Pearl could see that it was a worn, battered black cloak. "Could this be what attacked you, Frodo?" Said Merry with a grin. "It was hanging low on a branch. From a distance, it almost looked like a man."

"But, I don't see why he would pass out from it," Said Sam doubtfully. "He looks as healthy as he was before that cursed ring came into the picture, except for that wee bit of gray in his hair."

Frodo gave a short laugh and shook his head, then winced. He touched the back of his head gingerly. "I think I have the answer, my friends. I must have slipped and hit my head on something."

Pippin snapped his fingers. "Ah-ha! I'll bet the wind blew the cloak at Frodo, and he tripped over a rock and knocked himself out!"

Frodo smiled sheepishly. "Yes...that sounds right, Pippin. It spooked me, and I thought that some monster was swooping down on me. Isn't that silly?" He laughed.

Samwise looked worried. "I don't know...Sammy sure doesn't seem like the kind of lad who would carry on like that over a flapping cloak, and Mr. Frodo is acting a mite bit strange. He could have a concussion. I think we should start heading back to the Shire." The gardener looked nervous and a bit frightened.

"Sammy? Who is Sammy?" Questioned Frodo in confusion.

Pearl kissed him soundly and answered, "I'll tell you as soon as we're in a safer spot. Sam's right...I don't feel safe out here in the open."

They could all feel it. Something wicked was in the air. "I'm with her, let's get out of here," Whispered Pippin.

Without another word, they lifted Frodo onto a pony, and Sam was surprised that he didn't protest and demand to walk. Shrugging, the gardener led the animal with his master on it, following his friends back up the path they had come from. He was thankful that it was the opposite direction of the deeper woods. He couldn't shake the feeling that something was watching them from in there.

Once they had set up camp and established a watch order, Pearl took a deep breath and told Frodo everything that had happened in the past seven years...including the birth of his son. "A son?" He said in disbelief. "I have a son?"

Pearl nodded, her whole body tense and waiting for the outburst she deserved for not telling him she was carrying his child. His blue eyes glinted, and he smiled. "I have a son." He whispered.

Across the fire, Merry and Pippin exchanged a confused glance. They had expected Frodo to react much more emotionally to the news than this.

Frodo looked at Pearl again. "You delectable darling. I could eat you up." Then he playfully bit at her neck.

Pearl laughed, but Samwise could tell it was forced. Frodo was acting downright...creepy. In fact, the ring bearer stopped his bizarre stalking of his lover as a headache seemed to come over him. He rubbed his brow and hissed, "Be silent!"

The four hobbits looked at one another, then back at Frodo. "Mr. Frodo," Sam began hesitantly, reaching out to touch his friend's shoulder. He drew back hastily; for Frodo gave him a look filled with such vile hatred that, for a moment, it seemed like someone else was looking out through the ring bearer's eyes.

"I think Sam is right about the head thing," Pippin blurted. "Who was he telling to shut up?"

Frodo's gaze snapped to him, then suddenly softened. "I...am sorry, everyone. I don't feel well. I think I just need time to adjust to being out of the holy place."

Merry grimaced. Even Frodo's speech pattern was odd! "It's alright, my good hobbit! You just lie down there beside your Pearl and get some rest. I'm sure you'll feel better in the Morn."

Frodo smiled. "Yes, I am sure I will, too." Then he lowered himself onto the blankets and put his arm possessively around Pearl, without even kissing her goodnight.

Sam was so un-nerved that he tried to light his pipe without putting any weed into it. "Uh, here, Sam," Pippin said, handing the gardener his own pouch of Old Toby's.

Sam blushed and took the pouch, then hastily stuffed the bowl of his pipe with the weed and lit it. His hands were shaking, and sweat beaded his forehead.

"Sam," Merry whispered softly, "I'm sure none of this behavior of his is personal. He's had a bump to the head, and people often act strange after something like that happens."

Sam nodded, but didn't reply. Sighing, Merry bundled up next to Pippin. "Wake me up when it's my watch." He said.

Pearl sat listlessly during her watch, staring down at Frodo's sleeping face. Worry and disquiet wrestled in her mind. He was here. Her beautiful gentle hobbit was lying right beside her. Why did she feel like he was a stranger? She touched his hair, finding it to be the same soft, silken curls she remembered. The gray streak was rather flattering, actually. It contrasted nicely with the dark color of the rest of it, and was really more of a silver than flat gray or white. His delicate features were fuller and healthier than she remembered, making his beauty even more astounding. What was it that bothered her?

When she touched his cheek, she found it hot, though not flushed, as it should be with a fever. His eyes snapped open and focused on her suddenly, bluer than the ocean on a clear day. "Pearl," he said. His tone was a soft, seductive caress. She swallowed as his hand curled over her hip and he leaned up on his elbow, propping his cheek in his palm. "What's troubling you, my love?"

"N..nothing, Frodo. I was just worried about you. I don't remember you being this...this..." She couldn't finish the sentence, for he had cupped her head and pulled her down to him to kiss her. His tongue teasingly traced the outside of her mouth, and he nibbled her bottom lip.

"What...this passionate?" He said with a breathy chuckle.

"No!" She wanted to say, "This cold! This aloof!" But his mouth was working magic on her, trailing hot kisses down her neck and collarbone.

"Perhaps you remember this?" He murmured, sliding his hand beneath her blouse to cup a breast and tease it.

Well, his behavior was off, but his touch was exactly right. She shivered and closed her eyes as his mouth traced the contours of her throat and shoulders. He stopped abruptly and stood up. "Wha-" Pearl started, but he winked at he and put a finger to his lips.

"Let's go a little farther away from the camp, so that we can have our privacy...Kitten." He said huskily.

She ogled him. "Now? Here? B-but I'm supposed to be on watch!"

He knelt down swiftly, taking her hands in his and gazing into her eyes. "Pearl, please? I've longed for you. I need your touch." His mouth claimed hers again, and she went into full Took mode.

"Okay," She gasped breathlessly as she felt his erection rubbing against her leg. "If you think it's safe..."

He lifted her quite suddenly, and carried her to a secluded area, just out of sight of the camp. "Oh, Frodo," She sighed as he set her down. He coaxed her to the ground and lifted her shirt, then ripped her bodice open. She gasped in surprise, but his mouth was covering hers again, almost crushing in the pressure. He kissed and licked his way down her neck, softly biting her skin. She pressed against him and moaned softly. Her quiet moan of arousal suddenly became a yelp of pain as his teeth closed hard on her shoulder, drawing blood.

"Frodo, what are you-" She gasped, but he slapped her, hard. Her ears rang, and her eyes stung with tears as she dazedly tried to make sense of what was happening.

"Frodo, please!" She cried as he bit her again, this time on the curve of her left breast. He reared back and gazed down at her, licking blood from his lips. His smile was more evil than she could imagine his gentle mouth capable of producing, and his blue eyes were brilliant with malice.

"Ah, Pearl...this is going to be a treat. How many mortals get the privilege of dying by their own mate's hand? Of course, it won't be a swift death...oh, no. I'm going to have a bit of fun with you first. When I'm finished with you, I'll start on Samwise. He's always lusted for his Master, though he never admits it. That simpleton deserves special pain, from me. I'll simply slit the other two's throats. They aren't worth my time. Your son, though?" He traced her jaw with his fingertip and chuckled, "Oh...I mean * our * son. I wonder how he will feel about his dear 'Papa' when I return home to him."

Pearl tried to scream, but Frodo's hand slapped down over her mouth, and his other hand was suddenly holding Sting against her throat. "Would you prefer to go piece by piece?" He said in a hissing whisper. Trembling and feeling faint, Pearl closed her eyes. "That's better," He chuckled. His hands yanked at her trousers, and then worked on the fastenings of his own.

"This can't be happening...this can't be happening!" Pearl thought over and over again. It was not Frodo doing this to her! She tried to detach herself from what was going on, and she concentrated on her son's warning.

"Use your necklace to break the mirror, Mama." Sammy had said...at least something similar. What bloody mirror? There were no visible mirrors on Frodo's body! The thing in her lover's form looked down at her in amusement. His eyes were flat, with no mortal warmth to them.

Eyes...where had she heard something about eyes and mirrors? Frodo's voice; "Did you know that the eyes are a reflection of the soul?" She remembered him kissing her eyelids as he said it. That was it...it had to be!

Desperation gave her a burst of strength, and she bucked her body wildly, throwing Frodo off balance and giving her a moment to frantically reach into the pocket of her trousers. Frodo snarled at her and grasped her jaw painfully, making her cry out. Her fingers closed on the sharp points of the elven pendant, and she withdrew the piece of jewelry from her pocket and thrust it towards Frodo. He went still above her, and she was suddenly terrified that she would have to actually stab her love in the eye with it. She dared to look up, and saw his blue eyes reflecting the light of the pendant and dilating. The lids slowly came down, and his mouth went slack. He fell limp on top of her and began to shake violently.

"Oh, please don't tell me I've killed you, Frodo!" She cried, struggling to roll him onto his back. In her efforts, she felt something beside his spine, on his lower back. She squirmed out from underneath him and put the pendant close to his back, squinting. There were two small puncture wounds there. The skin around it was puffy and red, and as she held the pendant closer, green fluid drained out of it.

"Pippin! Merry!" Pearl screamed, frightened out of her wits. There were exclamations from the direction of the camp, then footfalls heading her way. Frodo groaned and convulsed once more, and no more fluid leaked out of the holes in his skin.

"Pearl! What's going on?" Cried Pippin as he fell to his knees beside her.

Between sobs, she managed to tell them what had happened.

Samwise carefully examined Frodo's back. "Something bit him, and I'll bet the poison is what made him act so queer."

Frodo moaned and rolled over. "Run," He gasped. "She was controlling me like a puppet. She was going to kill you all, using my body, just to get back at Sam and I."

Merry leaned closer and helped Frodo to sit up. "Who, Frodo? Who did this?"

The terror in the ring bearer's eyes convinced them that he was, indeed, himself now. "Shelob. She wants revenge upon Sam and I, for maiming her."

-To be continued

~*********~

"Cloudburst"

Part 6

It annoyed her that the link between she and Frodo had been severed. She couldn't have risked allowing the ring bearer to be fully aware while she was controlling him. As much as she would have enjoyed his horror at watching his hands torment his mate and kill her, Shelob knew that his will was too strong. He most likely would have broken free of the venom's hold on him if he had been fully aware during the killing.

Instead, she contented herself with toying with him on the beach, first. While the poison was infecting his body for her manipulations and he lay helpless, she told him exactly how she was going to get her revenge. She would slay those dearest to him, using his own hands. She planned to take care of Pearl first...in the worst ways imaginable. Sam, however, deserved special treatment.

The great spider's wounds from that cursed gardener's attacks had never healed properly. She wanted to keep him around for a good, long time and make him beg for death. How sweet his agony would have tasted if it were his beloved Master doling out the punishment!

She intended to allow Frodo his awareness just as his mate's life faded. She wanted him to see her mutilated corpse, and know that he had killed her. After that, she planned to take over again (hopelessness made victims of the poison more tractable) and kill the other two male halflings before moving on to Sam. She wanted the ring bearer to have a brief glimpse of the results between each kill.

As her plan went smoothly along, she found out about the ring bearer's son. The greed for tormenting him became stronger, and she decided to keep Samwise in her nearby lair, wrapped in a cocoon for later. She would take Frodo back to his precious Shire; only long enough to retrieve his son and bring him back here. Then the real fun could begin.

Shelob didn't think about how complicated that would have been. In her madness and lust for revenge, she did not care. She would have found a way. However, that simpering, female halfling had ruined those plans. When she thrust that nasty, elvish trinket in the ring bearer's face, the spider's dark venom immediately began to break down and drain out of him, releasing him of Shelob's control.

Her anger was even stronger, now. It had taken her years to remember how to produce her "thrall venom", as she called it. She hadn't used nor produced it in ages, for there was never a need, until Frodo's pet gardener crippled her. Having a mortal under her control made surviving in her weakened state much easier, and she had been forced to hibernate while her body healed and produced the poison. Luckily for her, the new lair she had created was not far from the shores of the Gray Havens. When she sensed that the ring bearer was coming back to Middle Earth, her devious heart swelled with joy at how she would avenge herself.

Now that her original plan had failed, she would have to resort to using her other abilities. If she had lips, she would have smiled cruelly. The fog she could conjure unsettled mortals?disoriented them. She could mimic different voices and sounds. She could distort those sounds, and make them seem farther away or right next to someone. The trick she had played on Frodo at the beach had been delicious fun. It was time to try it on all of the halflings. It was time to hunt.

-To be continued

~**********~

"Cloudburst"

Part 7

"Frodo," Merry said quietly, "Are you telling us there is a big spider after us?"

The ring bearer nodded. "Yes...and I think that you, Pippin and I should try to distract her and give Pearl and Sam a chance to run."

Merry and Pippin exchanged glances, and then nodded grimly. "Frodo, no!" Pearl cried, "We should all run away!"

Sam crossed his arms over his chest and gave Frodo a stubborn look. "I'm not going anywhere without the rest of you." He said.

"But, how could a spider have the intelligence to do all of this?" Pippin asked in a strained voice. "I know there are some giant spiders that can talk, but I've never heard of one being this smart, or controlling people's minds like that!"

"This one is different, Pippin. She is ancient and evil. Gandalf said she was once worshipped as a goddess by the darker races of Middle Earth." Frodo's eyes were wide as he scanned the trees. "She's likely going to try and drop down on us from above." He drew Sting and put his arm around Pearl. "Listen to me," He begged her, "I cannot let anything happen to you. If there is even a chance that I can give you time to get safely away, I'm going to take it!"

To Sam, he said, "Samwise, you wounded her badly the last time, but she wasn't prepared for the challenge. She underestimated us, and she won't be doing it again. You have a wife and children waiting at home for you! Merry, Pippin and I do not have that responsibility. Please...do not argue with me and let us give you a chance."

Sam opened his mouth to say, "But Frodo, you've got a child, too! Pearl told you so, back at the camp!" But he realized it was not really Frodo Pearl had made the confession to. Unbeknownst to the hobbits, Shelob had intended to wait until Sammy was in her clutches to reveal his origins to Frodo.

Any further arguing was interrupted by a terrifying, otherworldly shriek in the distance. Pearl's teeth chattered as she crowded closer to the men. She was trying to be brave, but for an arachnophobe who was being stalked by a spider the size of a warhorse, bravery was hard to come by. Fog began to roll in and surround them. "It's too late now," Said Sam through gritted teeth. "We're going to have to fight her, or outsmart her."

"Everyone stay together," ordered Frodo, "Sam, bring the phial out, it might stall her, if she gets too close. Do not let her divide us!"

As he finished the sentence, a hulking, monstrous form lunged out of the bushes from the left, strait at Pearl. She screamed in terror and began to run away. "Run!" Shouted Pippin hysterically, and he followed Pearl. Peregrin Took had never seen such a large spider in his life, and he now feared he was going to have arachnophobia himself, when this was all finished (he liked to think he would live through things like this, so he didn't think about dying).

Frodo swore and grabbed hold of Pippin's shirt so that he wouldn't lose him in the fog. Samwise and Merry followed the example, and they ended up forming a Hobbit caravan, with Pearl in the lead, and Merry taking up the rear (The Brandybuck wasn't very happy about being the last one, either). Breathy laughter from right ahead of them caused them to stop in their tracks, and they huddled up together and brandished their weapons (Pearl didn't bring one, so she picked up a rather thick stick and held it like a club). She howled in terror as the spider lunged at her yet again...this time from the left. She chucked her stick at it and was off running again, her shirt ripping from Pippin's tight grip.

Shelob drove her prey before her, enjoying herself immensely. The female halfling was the perfect candidate. She could taste Pearl Took's overwhelming fear of spiders, and she took advantage of it. The males, of course would not let the female out of their site, and the foolish girl was leading them strait to where Shelob wanted them.

Frodo began to suspect that they were being cornered. He could barely see their surroundings, but he sensed they were moving away from the ocean and deeper into the forest. Shelob was toying with them, he realized. Having her fun before the kill. "Stop," he said, dragging on Pippin's shirt with all his might.

Terrified, but not completely irrational, Pippin dragged his sister to a halt and held her tightly to keep her from breaking away from the group.

"She's herding us like cattle," Panted Samwise, who had also caught on to Shelob's game.

Pearl barely managed to speak through chattering teeth. "W...we're as g-good as d-dead-d-d!" She sobbed.

Frodo stroked her cheek, wishing he could make her fear go away, though his own heart threatened to explode. "No, Pearl. We've got to think of something. She can be beaten, we just have to discover how."

Pippin snapped his fingers. "I think I have an idea!"

Frodo groaned inwardly, but nodded for his cousin to continue. "Well, she obviously wants to have fun with us, right?"

Sam grimaced. "Yeah, I'm sure she's having a right good time, chasing us around in this blasted fog!"

Pippin ignored the pessimistic response and said, "Let's give her some real sport. Let's challenge her."

Merry sighed. "Pip, if she wanted a strait-out fight, she wouldn't be doing all of this."

Frodo's brow furrowed, "But it's not entirely unlikely that she'll accept. Bilbo said that nearly all creatures of her ilk have a weakness; Pride. Dragons, spiders, trolls...even orcs, to a lesser extent. Part of their evil stems from the belief that they are superior. She might be on her guard, knowing now that we can hurt her, but I'm sure she doesn't believe we can kill her. She'd probably find it more amusing than alarming if we challenge her to an open fight."

Pearl fainted at that moment. It was all too much for her. Pippin lowered her to the ground and looked up at the others in disconcertment. "I don't think we have a choice, lads," He said softly as a soft rustling came from above their heads.

-To be continued

~***********~

"Cloudburst"

Part 8

"Don't run," Frodo said firmly. The horrifying arachnid dropped slowly down from the unseen canopy above. The hobbits formed a protective circle around Pearl's unconscious form. Shelob lunged at Pippin, but instead of cringing away or bolting (as he sorely wanted to), he stabbed at her with his short sword. He felt the weapon hit something, and winced when the spider hissed.

"You should run, little halflings," She cooed, "I shall give you the chance to escape me."

"Keep your lies, Shelob!" Frodo cried defiantly. "You only play these games because you fear us!"

Shelob reared back. "Fear? You? A handful of bite-sized vermin? You should think again, little one."

Sam gathered his courage, which was hard to do, because she seemed even more hideous than he remembered. He had been in a rage in his last fight with her. Seeing his beloved Master fall before the creature had given him strength to fight her, but he had little to draw such strength from, now.

"I've beaten you before, and I can do it again!" Hollered Samwise in the most confident voice he could muster. "I'll squash you like a house spider!"

Beside the gardener, Merry grimaced at the lame threat. Samwise Gamgee was never very good at hurling insults.

Shelob drew down and forward, and Sam swallowed as the clicking mandibles of her maw stopped within inches of his face. Her fetid breath made him want to gag.

"Shall we find out, little gardener?" She said. Acidic saliva dripped from her sharp, needle-like fangs. The drops sizzled when they hit the ground. Sam grit his teeth and hollered the command to activate the light in the phial, then shoved it forward.

Shelob recoiled quickly as the painful light bathed her. She had anticipated the move, and averted her eyes. She swung one mighty foreleg out, catching the hobbit in the torso. Sam's breath exploded in a rush as he was swatted violently away. The force of the blow sent him flying, and he grunted as he hit a tree.

Frodo took advantage of Shelob's distraction and dove in with Sting, scoring a deep cut on the spider's thorax. He could only pray that Sam was not too badly injured from the blow he had taken. He barely managed to roll out of the way as Shelob swung her bulk around and stabbed at him with a sharp claw. How many poisons did the creature have?!

With a yell, Merry dove into a roll and swatted at the arachnid's armored legs with his sword. The weapon was the same he had used against the Witch King, and it proved its strength again now as it severed the bottom segment of one of Shelob's legs. Giving another horrible shriek, she moved away quickly. She began to speak in a grinding tongue that sent shivers down the hobbits' spines. "She's casting a spell of some sort!" Warned Frodo.

Pippin was about to argue that spiders couldn't be wizards, but the air temperature suddenly dropped. He could see his breath, as though it was the dead of winter, instead of spring. With the cold came a numbing despair, and he suddenly wondered what the point of fighting this awesome creature was. They could never win.

One by one, the hobbits lost their vigor for the fight, and their weapons began drooping. Only Samwise was unaffected by the evil spell, for he still had the phial of Galadriel clutched in his hand, and it warded against it. He saw what was happening, and he had heard Frodo's warning. Purely on a guess, the gardener began crawling towards his friends, gasping at the pain in his ribs. Shelob was eyeing Pearl, who was still lying unconscious on the ground. The spider stared at Frodo as she delicately rested the tip of one poisoned stinger over the hobbit woman's back. Sam could see a spark light up in Frodo's eyes at the blatant threat, banishing some of the magical lethargy that drained his strength.

Samwise knew that it still would not be enough. This time, he had to make full use of the phial. It was time to set the starlight within free. Time seemed to slow down as three creatures began to take action. Shelob lifted her stinger and prepared to plunge it into Pearl?s helpless body. Frodo growled and lunged at the arachnid. Sam stumbled strait towards Shelob, uncorking the magical phial as he did so. There was a blinding outpouring of light and raised voices, followed by screams and the sound of thrashing.

Meriadoc Brandybuck blinked, feeling the warmth return to his body. The fog of despair lifted, and he squinted against the pulsating light. An acrid, nauseating smell assaulted his nostrils, and once his eyes adjusted to the brightness, he could see what was causing it. Liquid light was splashed all over Shelob's black, bloated form, and it had the same effect upon the evil creature as acid. The spider writhed and screeched; smoke curling up from the carapace armor of her body. Frodo was stabbing relentlessly at her with Sting, opening more wounds on her body, and Sam was collapsed on the forest floor beside Pearl, panting. Merry joined Frodo's attack, determined to end the creature here and now. He grinned inwardly when he saw Pippin doing the same.

Pearl woke up, shaking her head to clear it. Terror filled her eyes as she remembered the predicament they were in, but the battle waging in front of her soon caught her attention. Hope lifted in her heart, for it was clear that Shelob was dying. That hope turned to alarm when she saw one of the arachnid's sharp, talon-tipped legs arching down, strait at Pippin. She acted purely out of instinct. Her baby brother was going to be skewered! With a scream of denial, she coiled her small body up and leaped, knocking Pippin to the ground. Hot agony ripped into her as the talon pierced her upper-right chest, just where her shoulder connected to her breastbone. The pain made her pass out again.

"Pearl!" Howled Pippin when he realized what had happened. Blinded by fury, he hacked and slashed at the monstrous spider like a small whirlwind. Shelob gave one last, defiant shudder, and then lay still. Her legs slowly curled up as she died...all except the one impaling Pearl.

It took the others a moment to understand that Pippin's sister was badly wounded...perhaps dying. Sobbing, Pippin cradled her head in his lap and grasped the barbed, black appendage that was embedded in her shoulder. Frodo's blue eyes seemed shocked, and the first horrifying thought that went through the ring bearer's mind was that she was dead. He took three steps and fell to his knees beside her, a moan of unbearable agony rising in his throat.

With shaking hands, he cupped her face and neck.

"She's alive!" Frodo said in a raw, choked voice when he felt her breath stir the fine hairs on his arm. Her pulse was steady, but weak.

Merry squatted down and examined the situation, wiping his eyes vigorously to clear the tears away so that he could see clearly. "Sam, we need your help," He said softly. Though he wasn't a healer by trade, Samwise had paid close attention to Aragorn during the hobbits travels with the Fellowship. Merry knew that of all of them, Sam knew the most about things like this.

The gardener crawled over to them and looked at where the point of entry was. He shuddered. It was the same place the Nazgul blade had stabbed Frodo, except that it was on her right shoulder instead of her left. "We've got to be ready to stem the blood flow, or cauterize the wound," He explained wearily. "There's a chance it hit an artery. Merry should probably pull it out, and Frodo and Pippin hold her." His breath wheezed a bit, and Frodo looked at him with concern. With a small smile, Sam gave his friend a reassuring nod to let him know he would live.

Merry spit on his hands and rubbed them together, then grasped the leg just above the point of entry, as Samwise instructed. Frodo put his palms down on top of each of Pearl's shoulders, gingerly at first, until Sam told him to push more firmly. Wincing and blinking back tears at the thought of the pain this was going to cause her, Frodo complied. Pippin held her head on either side.

"Count of three," Said Sam, looking at each of them in turn. "Ready? One...two...three!"

Merry pulled, Frodo pushed, and Pippin squeezed. Pearl's eyes shot open and she gave a strangled cry as the talon was yanked out of her, and her body convulsed with the pain. Frodo covered her body with his and spoke softly to her to sooth her as he held her down. Merry nearly fell backwards when the thing came out.

"Quick, how is the blood coming out?" Said Sam sharply.

Frodo looked, and reported, "It's flowing evenly."

"It isn't squirting in a rhythm?"

"No, it's just leaking out."

Samwise sighed, then winced at the pain the action caused. "Alright, someone pour water over it and clean the wound up as well as you can."

Merry uncorked his water skin and knelt down, and Pippin gingerly pulled Pearl's torn shirt open enough to expose the deep puncture wound.

"Shhh...it is going to be alright, Kitten," Whispered Frodo as Pearl moaned and cried. "I'm right here. There, now." He sniffled and stroked her cheek with his fingers as Merry carefully poured the water over her wound. She stiffened, and Pippin ran his fingers through her hair in a gentle caress.

"Is it dead?" Pearl asked through white lips. Her eyes were glazed.

"Yes, dearest. Shelob is no more." Frodo answered, taking her groping hand in his. "You saved Pippin's life, you know."

She gave him a sickly grin. "I hate spiders."

He smiled. "I know, Pearl. You helped squish this one, however. I'm proud of you." He was going to say more, but her eyes closed and she drifted out of consciousness again.

"She's not poisoned, is she?" Asked Pippin fearfully.

Sam shook his head. "I don't think so, Pippin. If she was, she'd either seem like she was dead, or she'd be dying, or she'd be dead for sure, by now. I think she's in shock. Some of the barbs one that nasty critter's leg might have broken off inside the wound. We need to get her to a town, where a real healer can clean it out properly...and we need to do it soon."

"I'll go look for the ponies. I heard them run off when all of this started, so I don't know if I'll have any luck, but even one would be a blessing." Merry said.

The others nodded. Sam was hurting too badly to help him look, and both Frodo and Pippin wouldn't have left Pearl's side for anything. Shelob's body had dissolved to little more than a pile of blackened legs, and it was still going. The smell was awful, but they hadn't thought to choose a different place to wait while Merry went after the animals, so they bore the stench stoically, so that he could find his way back to them easily.

It was nearing dawn when Merry returned, with only two of the ponies. "I'm sorry, lads. There's no sign of the other two. I found these fellows wandering down on the beach."

Frodo forced a smile. "Even two is a blessing, Merry. I think Sam and Pearl should ride . He's hurt as well.

Merry nodded. "You should ride with Pearl, Frodo. She'll need someone to support her, and I think being near you will help her, too."

They bundled Pearl up tightly in one of the blankets from the camp (it surprised them to find that they hadn't gotten more than forty feet from their camp before facing Shelob), then helped Sam mount the pony. Once he was securely seated, Frodo mounted the other one, and Merry and Pippin carefully seated Pearl in front of him. She leaned back against his chest and murmured something incoherent. "We'll be safe and warm at an Inn soon, Kitten," Frodo whispered into her ear.

-To be continued

~***********~

"Cloudburst"

Part 9

"Sam, what did you do with the star-glass? I've never seen that sort of reaction from it, before." Frodo questioned. He had an idea, of course, but he wanted to confirm it.

Sam coughed and held his side, and Frodo exchanged a worried glance with Merry and Pippin. "I did...the only thing...I could think of, Mr. Frodo." He took quick breaths between words, as if speaking pained him. "I...broke the seal, and uncorked it. I was...a mite surprised...didn't think it could be opened. I had to try, though."

Frodo smiled, his blue gaze tender upon his friend. "Well, I'm very glad that you did. If you hadn't, I do not think that any of us would be alive right now."

Sam flushed with pleasure and smiled. It was a little embarrassing; to have Frodo's expressive eyes openly conveying such admiration towards him. He took a breath to say something that was probably going to be silly, but the pain in his ribs made him grunt instead. He was beginning to wonder if walking would be a wiser choice for him. The motions of the pony weren't helping the ache.

"We should look for Athelas," Frodo said to Merry and Pippin. "Pearl is getting chills, and Sam is hurting more than he will admit."

Sam heard him and rasped, "Athelas doesn't grow around here. The soil isn't right for it, this close to the ocean."

Frodo's brow furrowed. "Well then, is there another plant that does grow here, that we could substitute it with?" I am worried about you." He reached his hand out across the distance of their mounts, and Sam took it and gave it a squeeze.

The gardener considered the question. "If you can find a Willow tree, you can make tea and a poultice out of the bark. It's not nearly...as good as Athelas, but it's the next best thing."

Hearing this, Pippin handed the reins of Sam's mount to Merry, and then he left to scout the area. "Don't go too far, Pip," Cautioned Merry, "It's still dark enough that you could get lost!" Peregrin waved to indicate that he understood.

The hobbits had been traveling for only an hour. They had argued over whether they should head for Harlond and look for a healer there, or if they should just go straight home to the Shire. It was finally decided that the Shire was the better course, as Harland was just as far away, but in the opposite direction.

Frodo silently hoped that there were still elves living in the deeper forests surrounding the Shire. The Gaffer was good at driving fevers out and clearing up coughing sickness, but internal injuries like Sam's and open wounds like Pearl's were probably beyond his skills. He nuzzled Pearl's hair as she whimpered in her sleep, and he wished that he could do more for her.

"We'll probably have to stop for the night in the hills," Merry commented, squinting as the morning rays flashed through the trees. "I don't think we should try to make Hobbiton in one day." Frodo agreed. It was important that they get there as soon as possible, but they couldn't risk making Sam and Pearl worse by traveling for too long. The wounded hobbits were going to need stillness and rest.

Another two hours passed, and Pippin finally spotted a Willow tree. Merry guided the ponies to where his cousin excitedly waved his arms. "Maybe we should take a short break here," Merry said thoughtfully. "Pearl's wound needs to be tended, and we can build a fire to boil up some tea."

Frodo nodded, and carefully helped Merry lower Pearl off of the Pony and to the ground. Pippin helped Sam dismount, and he was disconcerted to feel how hot the gardener's flushed skin was. Once the wounded hobbits were made as comfortable as possible, Frodo built a fire, while Merry and Pippin scraped bark from the Willow.

"I hope the tree doesn't mind," Pippin said aloud.

Merry stopped for a moment and grinned. He truly adored Pippin's youthful way of speaking his mind. He understood the young Took's feelings, of course. After their encounter with Old Man Willow, ages ago, and then again with Treebeard and the Ents, both hobbits had a greater respect for trees.

"What is it?" Pippin said in curiosity, when he noticed the way Merry was looking at him.

Merry shook his head and placed a quick kiss on his cousin's lips. "Oh, I'm just wool-gathering. You just reminded me of why I love you so much, is all."

Pippin smiled at him with soft, brown eyes.

Merry cleared his throat. "We'd better finish this," He said softly.

Pippin nodded and went back to the task at hand.

They gathered enough bark to make tea and a poultice for Pearl's shoulder, plus extra for the road.

"Here, Sam," Frodo said. He helped the gardener sit up, and then put a wooden cup full of Willow bark tea in his hand. Sam obediently drank the brew, and Frodo chuckled at the face he made. "Tastes bad?" He guessed.

Sam nodded. "Aye, but there's nothing to be done for it." He wasn't wheezing anymore, which was a good sign.

Frodo smirked. "I get the chance to pamper and dote on you, for a change."

That made Sam laugh, and he groaned at the pain it caused. "Mr. Frodo, please...I'll be fine. You just help them get your Pearl to drink some tea." He nodded towards Merry and Pippin, who were having issues with the stubborn woman. She kept jerking her head away from the cup, and her lips were clamped tightly together.

"Blast it, Pearl! You've got to drink it!" Pippin snapped at his half-conscious sister. He managed to get a few drops into her mouth by prying her lips open, but she promptly spit it out.

Merry looked up at Frodo as the ring bearer approached. "She's being as stubborn as a mule, Frodo. We cleaned up the wound easily enough, but she won't take the tea."

Frodo frowned. "Here, let me try."

His cousins stepped aside as he lay down on the ground beside Pearl, propped on one elbow. "Give me the cup."

Pippin handed it to him, and everyone watched with interest as she spoke to her. "Pearl, dearest? It's important that you drink this."

"I don't want to," She mumbled petulantly, "It tastes bad."

Frodo kissed her cheek. "Please, Kitten. Medicine usually tastes bad, but it will help you feel better."

She cracked her green eyes open and looked at him blearily. "You left me. You aren't here."

Frodo blinked as his eyes filled with tears. "I came back to you, Pearl. I shan't leave you again. Ever." It was clear that she was delirious and thought he was merely a dream.

"Kiss me then, if you're really here," She insisted.

He lowered his head without hesitation and caressed her lips with his. When he started to pull away to bring the cup to her lips, she said, "Kiss me again." He did.

Pippin muffled a giggle as his sister repeated the request a third time. Poor Frodo continued to try and coax her to sip from the cup, but all she wanted was his kisses. Eventually, the ring bearer sighed and looked about ready to try and force the drink down her throat, but then his sapphire eyes widened and a tiny smile lifted the corner of his mouth.

Frodo gave Merry, Pippin and Sam a furtive glance and blushed. They were all staring at he and Pearl, waiting to see what he would do. Merry tilted his head inquiringly as Frodo finally shrugged and took a small mouthful of the brew himself. The ring bearer grimaced at the taste, but did not swallow or spit it out. He then bent over Pearl and pressed his lips against hers.

Frodo slowly parted his lips, just enough to let the brew dribble out into her mouth, and before she could complain or turn her head, he pushed his tongue in and caressed the warmth within her mouth. She swallowed quickly and purred as he rewarded her by deepening the kiss.

After a moment, he pulled away and took another small sip of the tea, then repeated the action. The other hobbits watched in utter fascination as Frodo lovingly distributed the entire brew to Pearl, his pink tongue tracing her lips to coax them apart each time. When he administered the last swallow of the tea, the kiss lasted for a long, long time, and Pearl lifted her left hand and tangled her fingers into his dark curls.

Sam fanned his face with his free hand and loosened his collar, wondering how the air had suddenly become so much warmer and stickier. Pippin whispered, "Merry? The next time I'm sick, would you give me medicine that way?" Meriadoc nodded dumbly, feeling his cheeks warm.

Frodo finally pulled away from Pearl, and his breathing was noticeably heavier. She sighed and drifted off to sleep with a pleased smile on her lips. He stood up, his cheeks rosy as he turned to his friends. All three of them were staring at him in dumbfounded amazement. Sam still had half of his tea left, having completely forgotten it.

"Sam, you are going to finish drinking that, aren't you?" Frodo said. His voice was still husky from his reactions to giving Pearl hers.

Samwise blinked and took a deep breath as the ring bearer took a step towards him. Those gem-bright eyes were unreadable. "Oh! Y-yes, Mr. Frodo...of course!" The gardener gushed. He chugged the rest of his tea hastily, nearly making himself gag. Frodo smiled at him, and Sam wondered for a moment if his master would have helped him drink the brew in the same way he helped Pearl. Blushing, he banished the embarrassing image and thought of how much he missed Rosie.

They packed up after a lunch of Lembas (which was the only food they had, since most of their supplies had vanished along with the other two ponies) and started on their way again. Frodo noticed that Sam was in a lot of pain, though he tried to hide it. The ring bearer asked about Rose and Elanor, and was delighted to find out that Sam had a newborn waiting at home. "Funny how things work out, Frodo. I wasn't sure you were ever going to see the lad we named after you. Then little Frodo was born, and Sammy started having his visions about you coming home."

Frodo smiled, and then frowned almost immediately. "Sammy?" He said blankly.

Pippin became angry. "Your son, Frodo! How could you forget Pearl telling you about him?!" Merry had to put his arms around the insulted Took to calm him, because he looked ready to drag Frodo from the pony and pummel him.

"Pippin! Pip...calm down," Merry grunted as he struggled to hold his cousin back. "Frodo was under Shelob's control when Pearl told him! Remember? He wasn't even conscious when she told us about Shelob's plan to go after Sammy!"

Pippin slowly stopped struggling as Merry's words sunk in. His lover was right, and by the deathly pallor of Frodo's complexion, the ring bearer was in complete shock. Frodo's eyes were two blue saucers, showing the whites all the way around. He swayed unsteadily in the saddle.

"When did...how? She...she was pregnant with my child? When I left? Shelob was after him?" Frodo's voice rose, waking Pearl up.

"Frodo," She murmured weakly.

He closed his eyes, forcing himself to take a deep breath. "We need to stop again. I have to understand this...now!" His voice was thick, as though he was on the verge of sobbing.

"Alright, Frodo. Calm down." Merry said gently. He brought the pony to a halt, and Pippin did the same with Sam's mount. Samwise bit his lip and stayed still, having no idea what he could say to help the situation.

Frodo was not angry, except perhaps with himself. He was very gentle with Pearl as he helped Merry get her down from the pony. His legs felt weak when he dismounted, and he had to lean against the pony for support.

"Frodo, I'm so sorry," Pearl said faintly as Pippin cradled her on the ground.

Frodo took a couple of unsteady steps towards her, his lips pressed together. Lapis flames blazed from his eyes as he knelt down beside her, and Pippin put his hand on the hilt of his sword uncertainly, not sure what that burning intensity meant. He did not want to draw against his dear friend and cousin, but he wasn't about to let him harm his sister.

He relaxed a moment later, for the ring bearer's face seemed to cave inward in pain. Frodo heaved a sob and took Pearl's hand in both of his, rubbing his palms back and forth over it. "I never want to hear you say you are sorry again, Pearl," He whispered, "I am the one who abandoned you! I should have stayed. I should have married you. I oughtn't have-"

"Hush, Frodo," She interrupted as firmly as her raw throat would allow. "You had to leave. I know that, deep in my heart, even though it wasn't fair. I didn't tell you, because I knew you'd stay if you found out. That might have seemed like the best thing at the time, but I know I was right in keeping it from you."

She shuddered and gave a small cry, and Frodo squeezed her hand, bringing it to his lips for a soft kiss. Her jade eyes closed for a moment while she caught her breath. "I can see how much good it did you to go to the Undying Lands, Frodo. Your skin is so pretty...even prettier than it was before. It's got more color to it. You can move without pain in your shoulder. Your eyes aren't haunted anymore. They're sad, but they aren't haunted."

Her lids drooped as her strength began to give out. Frodo didn't dare interrupt her, for she was putting so much effort into saying all of this. "You would have been miserable, if you stayed. You would have resented me."

He couldn't keep silent when she said that. "No, Pearl. I would never resent you."

She nodded. "You...you would have, eventually. Nobody can be expected to live with the suffering you had to go through for very long, not without going mad or becoming hateful. You did what you had to do, Frodo. I did, too. We're both better for it, and Sammy is waiting to see you?"

Her eyes closed, and she drifted out of consciousness again. Frodo could barely see her face through his tears. "Oh, Pearl...I shall never leave you again," He whispered, leaning down to place a kiss on her sweating brow.

Pippin sniffled, feeling positively wretched for behaving as he did earlier. "Frodo...I'm sorry," He said. "I don't know what came over me."

Frodo put his hands on his cousin's shoulder and looked deeply into his eyes. "You did what any loving brother would have done, Peregrin Took. You became exasperated with my selfishness and defended your sister's honor. There is nothing to apologize for."

Pippin smiled slightly. "Does this mean that you're finally going to marry her, once we get home and get her patched up?"

Frodo smiled. "Yes, Pippin. Even if I have to tie her up to get her to stay put during the ceremony."

-To be continued

~***********~

"Breaking Point"

They got back onto the road again and traveled all through the day, stopping only once more to eat and to give Sam and Pearl more Willow bark tea. She was more agreeable about drinking it this time, and she seemed more coherent, to Frodo's relief. Though it pained her, the wound did not seem to be getting infected, thanks to the poultice they kept it bound with. When the sun went down, they decided to stop for the night.

"We should reach Hobbiton by tomorrow afternoon, if we start out bright and early," Merry said.

"Sam, how are your ribs feeling?" Questioned Frodo.

The gardener smiled and took a deep breath, wincing only slightly. "Much better, Mr. Frodo. I think I bruised them real good, instead of breaking them like I thought."

Frodo closed his eyes and sighed in relief. At least he could relax about Samwise, now. He rotated his shoulder, feeling a bit of soreness beneath his old stab wound. Sam noticed and frowned. "Is the pain coming back, Mr. Frodo?" He questioned.

The ring bearer shook his head. "No, Sam. At least, not the way it used to be. It's just a bit stiff and sore. I suppose I'll just have to live with it, like anyone else with a knife wound." He knelt down beside Pearl and adjusted her blankets, smiling when she opened her eyes and looked up at him.

"How do you feel?" He questioned.

"I've seen better days."

Frodo chuckled and gave her a soft kiss on the lips. "Pip is building a fire now. The warmth should make you feel better. Will you eat something? Even a few nibbles?"

She made a face. "I don't want to put anything in my stomach, to be honest with you. Especially not that awful tea you keep making me choke down!"

His shoulders shook with silent mirth. "I'm sorry, Kitten. I'm only doing it to keep you from becoming ill. Will you please just try a little bit of Lembas? For me?" His big, blue eyes were soulful and imploring.

She sighed. "Yes, gentle hobbit. I'd jump off a mountain, with you looking at me like that. It's not fair."

Grinning at his triumph, Frodo opened his pack and produced a wafer of Lembas, and then he carefully cradled Pearl's head and held the elvish bread to her lips. She nibbled it a bit, then took a larger bite and chewed.

Pippin watched the two of them with a gigantic smile on his face. "Look at that, Merry...isn't it wonderful?"

Merry wasn't in the mood to gush over how cuddly and cute Frodo and Pearl were. He was tired, hungry and cranky. "I know, I know. It's magical, it's wonderful...it's beautiful! Would you please stop staring at them and finish with the fire so I can brew the tea?"

Stung, Pippin lowered his gaze and did as Merry asked. "I'm just happy for them, is all," The young Took said in hurt tones. Merry sighed and crossed the camp to stand in front of his lover.

"I'm sorry, Pippin. I know you're happy about it. We all are. I'm just exhausted." He hugged him, and Pippin relaxed.

"Maybe I could snare us a rabbit," Samwise muttered as he looked around. "I've had my fair share of Lembas, thank you."

Frodo looked up at him sternly. "Oh, no you don't, Samwise Gamgee! You are going to drink your tea and sit here and rest! You are also going to eat your share of Lembas and like it!"

Sam's jaw dropped in surprise at the prissy command. His Master sounded so much like the old Frodo, before the ring was ever given to him! He stared at his friend, and the sapphire eyes seemed to say, "I dare you to argue!" The gardener found himself grinning, and Frodo slowly smiled, too. Then Sam chuckled a bit, and Frodo snorted as he tried to hold his own laughter in, so as not to jostle Pearl. Soon, Pippin joined in with a sharp giggle, which made Sam laugh harder, though it made his ribs ache. Merry chuckled quietly; though he was so tired he had no idea what everyone was laughing at. Even Pearl cracked a smile, forgetting her pain in the warmth of friendship.

Wiping tears from his eyes, Frodo said, "I mean it, though. You're falling back into your old habits of ignoring your hurts to provide for everyone, and I won't let you get away with it." Though he was smiling still, it was clear that he meant it.

Sam raised his palms in defeat. "Yes, Sir. I promise to get some rest and eat some Lembas?though I won't like it." He crossed his arms over his chest defiantly, and Frodo laughed again.

"Well and good. See that you do." The ring bearer said with a nod.

Sam stroked his chin and said, "I'm sure by tomorrow, I'll feel good enough to look for some pheasant eggs for breakfast?"

Frodo fixed him with a glare. "Samwise?" It was a warning.

The gardener smiled. "I was just teasin' you, Mr. Frodo. It's good to have you back." His mild, brown eyes were sincere and warm, and Frodo blushed a bit and smiled back.

They settled in for the night, and Frodo insisted on taking the first watch. "I've been riding all day, and Sam is still sore, so it's best that you all get your rest, first."

Merry shrugged. "I'll not argue with you, my fine Hobbit. I'm so tired that my tired is tired!" With that, he collapsed on the blanket he and Pippin were sharing and closed his eyes. Pippin yawned hugely and stretched, gave Frodo and Sam a smile, and cuddled up next to Merry.

"Goodnight, Mr. Frodo. Don't forget to wake me when it's my turn, and if you get sleepy, I'll take over." Sam said softly.

"Oh, Sam...you ninny! Just get to sleep!" Frodo chuckled, throwing a handful of grass at his friend. The gardener settled down with a sigh, happy beyond words to see Frodo smiling so much, again.

Frodo fluffed the blankets around Pearl to make sure she was comfortable, and then kissed her on her brow. "Goodnight, Kitten." He whispered, though she did not hear him, for she was already asleep.

At midnight, Frodo began to grow heavy-lidded, so he gently shook Sam awake. "Mmmph...just a few more minutes, Rosie," The gardener mumbled, "Mr. Frodo is coming for breakfast, and I want to be nice and rested."

Frodo covered his mouth to muffle the giggles that shook him. Sam's sleepy comment really made no sense...why would the gardener worry about being rested for breakfast? "Silly lad," Frodo whispered fondly. "Come on, Sam, I'm falling asleep. Would you rather me wake Pippin or Merry? I will, if you haven't gotten enough rest."

Sam snorted and rolled over, rubbing his eyes. "Oh, I'm sorry, Mr. Frodo. I guess I was sleeping pretty hard. I'm ready for my watch."

"Are you sure? I'm sure Pippin could take this watch, if you need more rest."

"No, no...don't wake him. I'll be fine."

Frodo patted his friend's shoulder and went to lie on the ground beside Pearl. Sam frowned, and picked up his blanket. It didn't occur to him that there weren't enough to go around. "Here, Mr. Frodo. I won't be needing this while I'm on watch. No sense in you sleeping on the cold ground."

The ring bearer smiled up at him. The firelight made his blue eyes positively glow. "Thank you, Sam." He took the blanket and spread it out, then covered a yawn and lay down beside Pearl, his hand resting on her belly. "Goodnight," He said sleepily.

Samwise sighed and propped himself against a nearby tree, digging through his pockets for his pipe and weed. His thoughts turned to Rosie and his tiny new son. Wouldn't she be surprised to see the Hobbit they'd named him after! The whole Shire would be in a shocked uproar! Very few people believed that Frodo went away to the Undying lands, for to them, it was only a place of legend. Most of the Hobbits stubbornly insisted that Frodo had passed away overnight (for it was common knowledge that Frodo's illnesses brought him to death's door), or that he had gone to Rivendell to be with Bilbo in his final days.

Sam snorted. He found it faintly amusing that all of them knew elves existed, yet did not believe in Valinor. Oh well...hobbits always have been, and always will be simple folk. He used to be the same, until he met Mr. Frodo and his life changed forever. People claimed that Sam Gamgee hadn't changed a bit over the years, but that was only on the outside. On the inside, he was a much wiser hobbit (at least, he liked to think so), and his eyes were opened to the world around him. It was sometimes hard to relate to other Hobbits now, with the exception of Merry, Pippin and Pearl, for the Shire folk rarely looked beyond the hills of their own home, and Sam had seen the world.

Frodo whimpered in his sleep and stirred, and Sam looked over at him in concern. He was probably just having a nightmare about Shelob...it would make sense, being that the ordeal had happened only last evening. The gardener tried not to let the continuing sounds of distress his master was making bother him, but his soft heart betrayed him. He tapped his pipe against the tree to clear the bowl of ashes, and then he walked softly over to where Frodo and Pearl lay. The ring bearer's fair face shone with perspiration, and his brows were drawn together. His breath quickened and hitched, and he whispered, "No more...it hurts," in a broken tone.

Sam paled as understanding came over him. So, the Blessed Realms hadn't fully cured Frodo's soul. The poor thing was still reliving his horrible experiences...at least the one in that cursed tower. Sam grit his teeth and fought the urge to smooth aside the stray lock of hair that had fallen over Frodo's eye. His poor master. Why should someone so full of goodness have to continue to have these memories? He would wipe them away, if he could...or take them himself. Anything to finally stop the suffering. Sighing, the gardener walked away and tried to take his mind off of the pitiful whimpers.

Frodo tossed and turned, trying to escape an enemy which now existed only in his mind. * Rough hands pinching him, internal pain, raw screams. Bloodbloodbloodbloodblood? * his eyes snapped open wide, and he sat up, gasping for breath. His body shook with terror, and he fought to calm himself and make his mind realize he was safe, now. Looking around, he saw that Sam was staring up at the stars, with his back turned to the camp. Pearl appeared to be sleeping soundly, as were Merry and Pippin. Frodo wiped the sweat from his brow and was thankful that he hadn't screamed and alarmed anyone. He did not want them to know he was still bothered with nightmares. They had all worried enough about him.

He stood up and began to walk to the bushes, and Sam turned around. The gardener tried to keep his expression neutral, but Frodo could tell by the sorrow in those brown eyes that Sam knew he had been dreaming of Cirith Ungol. "I...need to wash my face," Frodo whispered lamely. "I'm just going to the little brook behind the trees." Samwise nodded, saying nothing.

His eyes followed the ring bearer, noting how he stumbled. He could tell that Frodo had begun to cry as soon as his back was turned. The slender shoulders shook silently as he made his way through the bushes. Sam felt his own eyes burn with tears, and he angrily rubbed them away with his shirtsleeve. There was nothing he could do for Frodo...he had to accept that. Didn't he? A small voice inside the gardener's head told him no, he couldn't accept that. Something was making Frodo dwell on those memories...some fear that nobody had ever bothered to explore. Sam bit down on his pipe and sucked on it, though he hadn't refilled it with pipe weed. He thought back to the party that night, how Frodo had reacted to the lad who had gotten a bit friendly with him.

Sam couldn't blame Frodo for being alarmed. He wasn't sure he would have been entirely okay with another male expressing that sort of interest in him, either. But Frodo had been hysterical. The ring bearer also tried to hide his discomfort with Merry and Pippin's relationship; probably out of the fear that they might misunderstand the reason and think he was judging them. So, the symptom seemed to be a fear of other males, but why didn't he ever shrink from Samwise himself? Did he think of the gardener as a brother? The thought made Sam unreasonably sad, instead of comforted. He was suddenly alarmed at the thoughts going through his head. What would Frodo do if he tried to kiss him? Would it help him face his fear, or would it destroy the wonderful friendship they shared?

Pearl's soft voice interrupted the gardener's thoughts. "Go after him, Sam."

He blushed furiously, wondering if the outrageous Took had seen into his head! "B-beg your p-pardon?" He stammered.

Her green eyes were bright with pain, but clear and earnest. "I said, go to him. Frodo needs help, and you're the only person he trusts enough for the kind of help he needs. Do you understand me?"

Sam's mouth opened and closed like a landed fish...he couldn't believe what she was asking him to do! Yet, a part of him had always wondered what it would be like to do it. Pearl began to struggle to get up, clearly meaning to walk over and bonk him on the head, and he hurried to her side to stop her from moving. "Pearl," he hissed, "Are you asking me to do what I think you're asking me to do?"

She nodded and smiled. "It's just as weird to me, but it's the only thing that hasn't been tried yet. There's not another male in Middle Earth who Frodo would trust enough to help him with this...not even Legolas."

"B-but what about you? What about Rose? How can-"

"I'm fine with it. Well...not really, but I'm going to have to live with it, if I want my gentle hobbit to heal. I'm sure Rosie would understand, too. She knows how much you care for Frodo, and I'm sure she knows you'd feel awful if you thought you could have done something for him, but never did, out of worrying over her reaction. Does any of that make sense?" She looked rather confused, as if she barely understood what she was saying herself. "I'm not giving you consent to run away with him, mind you. Just...be there. Okay?" Her smile was a bit tremulous, but her eyes were sincere.

Sam was blushing furiously, for he had already begun to feel excited about the whole thing. He looked at the ground in embarrassment as Pearl giggled. Then she groaned softly and fell back on the ground. In the silence, they could barely hear stifled sobs from the direction that Frodo had taken. "Please, Sam...I'm not going to give you this chance again. You'd better take it while it's good," Pearl said through clenched teeth.

He nodded slowly. "Alright. I can't make no promises, though. He might just run away from me. Oh no...what if he does? I could ruin our friendship!"

Pearl shook her head. "He won't."

"What makes you so sure?"

"Because, any time he has those nightmares, he calls for you. Go drive them away, Sam. Take the blanket with you, too."

Swallowing hard, feeling like he was again walking into Mordor, Sam took the blanket and stood up to go to Frodo. "Oh, take this," Pearl said, and tossed something at his feet. "Just in case you need it."

The gardener looked down at the object and turned beet-red all over. It was a jar of Pearl's royal jelly, which she usually used on her face at night, but could also be used on sunburns and as a lubricant. The implications of it turned his knees to water. "Uh," he said stupidly.

"I don't want it back when you're finished, either," She said with typical Took subtlety. Then she pinched her lips and giggled. Her girlish obsession with looking good for Frodo was going to prove useful, after all.

Sam bent down to pick it up, and his hands were shaking so hard that it nearly flew out of them. Clutching the bottle and the blanket to his chest, he hurried off into the bushes, before she could say anything else to embarrass him.

"Frodo, I thought you might be cold...no, that sounds too obvious. He'd come back to camp if he was cold, and he knows I know that." Sam whispered to himself as he followed the path his master had taken. "Frodo, aren't the stars pretty tonight? No! Too stupid! Nobody says something so off kilter when a friend is crying! Think, Samwise Gamgee! Frodo, I love you." He stopped dead in his tracks...well, he could say that, but blurting it out so suddenly would make the ring bearer instantly suspicious. He did love Mr. Baggins, he realized. As much as he loved Rosie. This was too strange! Thanks to Pearl Took, he couldn't stop thinking about Frodo, or desiring him!

Shaking his head, he resumed walking and kept trying to come up with something to say. "You don't have to be alone, Frodo." Yes, that was it. He would appreciate that, and it wouldn't frighten him. Feeling much better, Samwise strode into the clearing, where Frodo sat, hunched over by the stream. Hearing the gardener approach, the ring bearer turned his head and looked up at him. Samwise gulped at the feelings that washed over him as those tearful, vulnerable blue eyes regarded him. The gardener completely forgot what he was going to say. Frodo looked at the bundle in his arms, and Sam hastily covered the jar with the blanket and blushed. Oh, that would have gone well. How would he have explained what he was doing holding Royal Jelly? * Oh, I just wondered if you'd like me to do your face up, Mr. Frodo. Your skin's been looking a little dry. *

Sam choked on a hysterical giggle that tried to surface, and cleared his throat. "Um...I heard you crying," He said softly. Frodo said nothing, he just continued to stare at him. He looked so sweet and sad, with the moonlight splashing down on his pretty features and turning them to porcelain. He was like a doll. Gathering his courage, Sam closed the distance between them and sat down beside Frodo. The ring bearer pulled his legs up and rested his arms on them, then set his chin on his arms. Samwise quickly pocketed the jar while he wasn't looking, and then draped the blanket around the ring bearer's shoulders. Instead of leaving it at that, he kept his arm around Frodo, pulling him gently into a loose embrace.

"Thank you, Sam," Frodo whispered, relaxing against him. He began to weep soundlessly, and Sam stroked his soft curls and kissed his forehead.

"There now, Mr. Frodo. Your Sam is here for you, just like I always was." How should he proceed? It didn't feel right for him to try to seduce Mr. Frodo, and he wasn't a woman, so he'd only get strange looks from his master if he started talking about how pretty his eyes were, how soft his hair was, how smooth his skin was, how good he smelled?

Samwise found himself thinking about all these things and more, and he squirmed as he suddenly became aroused. * Bless me; all of those things are true about Frodo! * True they may be, but that was the kind of talk you gave to a girl...not a grown hobbit man. Perhaps he should just be honest? Tell him the truth? He shouldn't blurt it out plainly, of course. "Frodo, I came here to make love to you. Pearl thinks it'll make your nightmares go away." No, that would never do.

Frodo turned his head and rested his cheek on Sam's shoulder, and he could feel the ring bearer's breath warming his neck and caressing the fine hairs at the nape of it. * Oh my goodness gracious! * That funny, tingly feeling that normally only Rosie could give to him started at his neck and worked its way down to his groin. He'd be in a pickle for sure if Frodo brushed any part of his body against his lap and felt what the contact was doing to him!

"Sam," Frodo whispered, "I still cannot get the images to go away. Even in Valinor, I was haunted by them." He seemed to be apologizing, as if it was a bother to those who loved him. "It's the one thing that won't go away...I think I shall have these nightmares for the rest of my life."

Frodo's helpless resignation broke Sam's restraint. He cupped the ring bearer's chin and tilted his head back, so that he could look into his eyes. "Listen to me, Frodo." His voice was full of authority that he had never before used on him, and Frodo's lips parted in wonder. "Nobody blames you for the things that happened to you, so you need to stop blaming yourself. Not all the answers to your problems were on that island."

Frodo didn't understand what Sam meant. "What are you trying to say, Sam?"

The gardener caressed his master's delicate, beloved face in his hands and gently wiped the tears from his cheeks with the pads of his thumbs. "I'm saying you might try looking a little closer to home for healing, Frodo." He kissed the ring bearer's face, once on each side. "You're so kind," He kissed the tip of his nose, "You're so gentle," He kissed his chin, "You're so beautiful." He kissed his mouth.

When he pulled back, he found that Frodo's sapphire eyes were half-closed. "It's time to let go of it, Frodo. Let your Samwise drive those nightmares and fears away, once and for all."

Frodo's eyes opened fully at the implications of that. "H-how?" He stammered.

Sam took one of his hands and turned it over so that he could kiss and nuzzle the palm. "Will you trust me, Frodo dear? Will you try with me? It...it took a lot of guts for me to come to you like this. You see, I don't want to scare you off. You have to trust me if this is gonna work at all."

Frodo was trembling, his sensitive lips quivering with emotions. "Oh, Sam...I'm afraid."

It was not refusal. Frodo was simply stating a fact. Sam put his strong arms around him and pulled him close. "I know you are, me dear. All I can do about it is ask you to trust me."

Frodo's eyes welled with tears. "I have always trusted you, Sam." It was all the encouragement Sam needed. He took a deep breath, and reverently kissed Frodo's soft, inviting lips. They were so silken and warm. Samwise murmured softly and pressed his hand against the small of Frodo's back, pressing insistently. Frodo responded, sliding closer until he was nearly in the gardener's lap. Sam wanted more. He caressed Frodo's jaw line with his fingertips and ran the tip of his tongue between his lips. Frodo obeyed the silent request, and opened his mouth slightly. Sam slid his tongue into the opening and stroked the inside of his mouth.

The gardener used both his experience of bedding a woman and his knowledge of what felt good to him. He treated Frodo with infinite care and patience, as though his master was a frightened bride on their wedding night. "It's alright, Frodo," He murmured huskily, "I'll go nice and slow for you." The great blue eyes blinked, then closed as Sam's fingers messaged Frodo's scalp.

"Mmm," Frodo hummed. The tension in his neck dissolved, and his head tilted back into Sam's skilled, strong hands. He didn't see the look on Sam's face as the gardener watched his features relax. If he had, he would have thought he was in pain.

Sam caught his breath against the pain that stabbed his heart. * Bless me, how does Pearl keep her hands off of him? * Frodo's lips were moist and parted, and his eyelashes fluttered in pleasure at the message. Unable to resist his sweet beauty, Samwise touched his lips to Frodo's again, softly brushing them back and forth.

Frodo responded without hesitation this time. His moist tongue darted out and pressed against Sam's lips. Sam groaned and sucked on it gently. Frodo's head spun, and his hand rested on Sam's knee. The gardener broke the kiss and moved on to Frodo's neck, licking and sucking on the soft skin.

"Sam," Frodo sighed. He couldn't believe this was really happening. His dearest friend was kissing his throat and earlobes, something which only Pearl had ever done before...and Frodo's body was responding wantonly. Sam's fingers began to flick open the buttons of his shirt, and when Frodo started to protest, the gardener's firm, warm mouth covered his again and silenced the objection.

Frodo found himself melting in Sam's embrace. He had no idea his friend was so strong, so confident. He felt the cool night air against his skin as Sam opened his shirt and bared his chest. He started to shrink away as the memories rose within him.

"No, Frodo," Sam whispered as the ring bearer began to cry again. "Stay with me. Come on, Frodo dear. Look at me." Hesitantly, those long-lashed eyes opened. His chest heaved in a half-panicked rhythm, and only a thin band of blue was visible around the dilated pupils.

"Easy, Frodo. Look at me." Sam said again. The slender hobbit obeyed. Sam's face was a familiar anchor, and Frodo reached out to touch the ruddy, kind features. "There you go, Mr. Frodo," Sam whispered.

His calloused, large hands glided up and down Frodo's chest and torso, making him gasp. The friction of the roughened skin on his sensitive nipples sent warm tingles through his belly, and Frodo's lips parted. Sam was patient and thorough as he explored Frodo's lithe body.

It wasn't the same as it was with Pearl...and not just for the gender difference. With his lover, Frodo felt powerful. With Sam, he felt almost helpless, yet safe. Frodo squeezed the gardener's thigh, exciting him further.

"Frodo," Sam groaned, plunging his tongue into his mouth. Frodo rose up and cupped the gardener's face, his own tongue moving against Sam's. He began to work on the buttons of Sam's shirt. His fingers felt clumsy and thick, and Sam had to remove his hands from the ring bearer's chest to help him.

Once Sam's shirt was removed, Frodo continued on to the buttons of his trousers. His satiny lips messaged Sam's, and his tongue continuously darted out to lick them, only to retreat teasingly. Sam struggled with an almost frantic desire to flip Frodo onto his back and lose himself in the passion. By the Shire, he was such a sensual creature! They both stood up so that Frodo could pull his trousers down, and Sam stepped out of them.

Then Frodo realized how far things progressed when Sam was completely nude before him. His expressive eyes slowly explored the gardener's body, and Sam held his breath nervously. He was solidly built, yet soft in places, too. Sam felt heavy and clumsy next to Frodo's graceful, lithe beauty, but the ring bearer was blushing, and his gaze was appreciative. Frodo thought Sam's body was extremely attractive, and he understood why Rose had always been so anxious to marry him...and why she was so possessive.

He gasped when his gaze finally reached Sam's jutting erection. Samwise was as long as Frodo, but thicker. "Oh," He breathed, stepping backwards. The member intimidated him, made him think of the pain it would cause if it were pushed into his small body.

Sam dared not move. Rose had reacted a similar way on their wedding night, but Frodo looked as though one twitch would send him off running. His pale throat worked as he swallowed, and his smooth chest rose and fell unevenly. "I won't hurt you, Frodo," Sam reassured him.

The blue eyes flicked to meet his, tear-filled and skittish. "I won't move until you say it's alright, dearest." Sam said tenderly, holding himself perfectly still.

Frodo closed his eyes and tried to calm his breathing. This was his loyal Samwise in front of him...the farthest thing from an orc imaginable. Without opening his eyes, he slowly stepped forward again, reaching his hands out like a blind man. Cautiously, Sam took those hands and placed them on his naked chest, just over his heart. The feel of his friend's rapid, deep pulse soothed Frodo, and he slowly turned his head and stepped closer. Sam's heart burst with love when his master trustingly embraced him around the waste and pressed his cheek against his chest.

"Oh, Frodo," He whispered brokenly, tears spilling from his eyes. He kissed the soft, dark hair on the crown of his head and put his arms around him. In so many ways, Frodo was almost like a child. Still so innocent, even after all he had been through. Samwise rocked his master gently, pleased that Frodo hadn't gotten spooked from the feel of Sam's naked erection throbbing against his lower belly.

Frodo's sensitive fingers glided over Sam's back, feeling the strength of the muscles beneath the tanned skin. His Samwise. Frodo would always have Pearl, and Sam would always have Rose, but they would always have each other, as well. He trembled as Sam's hands cupped his buttocks. He pinched his lips together and fought off a sob of panic. "Sam," He whimpered.

"Shhh, me dear. You've got to face it. I'm right here."

Frodo buried his face against Sam's chest and allowed him to remove his clothing. He was trembling fiercely, his teeth chattering with terror, by the time he was nude. "Look at me," Sam whispered, his breathe warm on Frodo's cheek. He did, and calmed slightly as he met the caring, earthy eyes of his friend.

Sam kept eye contact with Frodo as he stroked the ring bearer's abdomen, slowly sliding his hand down to the stiff, pink-tipped shaft between his legs. He curled his fingers around the ivory-peach length of it and gripped it firmly. Frodo whimpered and tried to pull away, but Sam's other hand was firmly pressed against his bottom, keeping him still. "Easy, Frodo," The gardener murmured, holding the frightened blue gaze with his own. He began to move his gripping hand up and down Frodo's penis with sure, long strokes, and the ring bearer's breath expulsed as though he was hit in the stomach. "That's it, me dear. Don't go away on me. Stay with me."

Frodo fought the urge to resist as Sam squeezed and pumped his hardness. It felt astonishingly wonderful...and different. Pearl's touch brought no less pleasure, it was just different. He moaned in spite of himself and began to relax against the gardener. Sam removed his hand from Frodo's buttocks and raised it to his face. He traced the fine, angelic planes of his master's face, brushing the pads of his fingers over the sensitive, sweet mouth. "Sam," Frodo sighed, licking the salty fingertips that caressed his lips.

Sam swallowed hard. * Easy there, Samwise Gamgee...don't let yourself get too excited and ruin it! * It was far easier said than done. Frodo's expressions were so erotic and lovely; the gardener thought he would surely spill himself before too long, just from touching him and watching his face. He carefully lowered Frodo to the blanket on the ground, never ceasing his steady strokes to his pulsing erection. Here was the tricky part. It was time to get to the root of Frodo's fear.

Frodo's hips lifted and sweat broke out on his body as Sam's hand began to move faster over his penis. He grabbed handfuls of earth and whimpered helplessly at the hard friction his friend was applying. "You're doing good, Frodo," Sam rasped, feeling his own organ leaking moisture. The gardener fumbled with his discarded clothes while he stroked his master, finding the jar of royal jelly Pearl had given him. He slowed his strokes down a bit, not wanting Frodo to climax so soon, and he struggled clumsily to unscrew the lid of the jar.

His efforts were rewarded before too terribly long, and he dipped his fingers in and collected some of it. "Frodo, I'm going to do something now...something you might not like at first. Just trust your Samwise, please."

Brilliant, impassioned eyes popped open, and Sam hated the fear that leaked into them when he began to rub the lubricant over Frodo's sphincter. "S-S-Sam...I cannot do this," Frodo cried brokenly, flinching away from the contact.

If Frodo had begun to fight him in earnest, Samwise would have stopped immediately, but the ring bearer merely flinched and looked up at him with pleading, terrified eyes. Sam kissed him tenderly and slowly pushed a finger in. Frodo whimpered, his hands reaching up to clutch at the gardener's back. The only reason Sam knew how to do this was because Rosie learned from one of her friends about men's prostate glands, and she decided to use the technique on him one night. It was uncomfortable at first, but once the gland is found and the muscle relaxed, the pleasure was intense.

Frodo was very tight...whether it was purely natural smallness, or because he was so tense, Samwise couldn't tell. He propped himself on his elbow so that his weight wasn't fully pressing into his master, and he carefully moved his finger around inside of him, pushing it deeper. Frodo gave a soft cry, his shoulders shaking with silent sobs. Sam kissed his face over and over again, promising it would be all right, but he was beginning to lose his nerve. He couldn't handle doing this to his beloved Frodo. The smaller hobbit was too tense and frightened to feel anything but discomfort from it.

Just as he was about to give up and withdraw his finger, it pressed against a small, hard lump, and Frodo jerked. Sam looked down at his master to see shock written all over his pretty face, and he began to rub and press the gland cautiously. "Is that better, Mr. Frodo?" He questioned huskily.

Frodo didn't know how to answer. His body was involuntarily quivering, and sharp sensations of pleasure zipped through his spine and groin. He stared up at Sam's concerned face and moved his lips, but no sound came out. Sam smiled down at him, understanding completely. His reaction had been just as startled and helpless, the first time Rosie did it to him. "There now, Frodo dear. Just let me work on you." He kissed the rosebud lips that trembled on that dear face, and raised himself up on his knees so that he could fondle Frodo's penis.

Now Frodo's anus was beginning to loosen up, and Samwise pushed another finger in, watching his master's reaction carefully. Frodo gasped and arched his back, throwing one of his arms out to the side so violently that Sam was thankful he was not lying beside Frodo. He would have gotten a shiner, for certain. "Oh, Elbereth!" Frodo cried as Sam pushed both fingers against his prostate and moved them in circles. To add to the torture, the gardener began to rub the opening of Frodo's urethra with the tip of his index finger while holding the length of him in his hand. He knew good and well how wonderful that felt.

"You're so beautiful, me dear," Sam said in a low, rough voice as Frodo clenched his teeth and bucked his hips. The gardener thought about taking him into his mouth, but he could tell that Frodo was about to ejaculate, and he thought it might ruin the moment if he ended up getting it squirted all over his face and hair. He almost chuckled at that picture, until he looked at Frodo again. There was absolutely nothing funny about this, he decided. Frodo's cheeks were flushed, his lips trembled, and his nostrils flared. His eyes blazed with inner light as he stared at Sam with undisguised lust and pleasure. "Goodness, Mr. Frodo!" Sam gasped in heartfelt amazement, nearly coming right along with his master. Hot semen spurted rhythmically from the rosy tip of Frodo's organ, and his blue eyes closed, while his mouth opened wide. He tilted his head back and cried Sam's name so loudly that the gardener had to muffle it with a kiss.

Sam stared down at Frodo with wide, disbelieving eyes as the ring bearer panted from the release. The moonlight made Frodo's slick body glisten like water kissed alabaster, and his eyes were dazed and half closed. * Perfection* Samwise thought, * that's what my Frodo is...he's perfection *. He did not remove his fingers from within Frodo just yet. It was exquisite, to feel his master's tightness squeezing him.

"Sam?" Frodo whispered faintly.

"Yes, Mr. Frodo?"

"Is it possible for two men to make love the same way a man and a woman traditionally do? I mean, the position?"

Sam felt his pulse pick up. "I reckon so...after all, the...entrance on a man isn't but an inch south of where a woman is usually...penetrated."

"I don't want to do it the other way," Frodo said softly, his blue eyes bright with tears. They avoided him. "I...I want to see you when you take me. I want to have your face above mine."

Sam grit his teeth as his penis jerked a bit on it's own at Frodo's words. Take...him? Oh, dear. Oh, goodness golly, was he serious? He was willing to have Sam inside of him like that?

He wanted to be absolutely sure. "Please, look at me, Frodo." His master complied silently, his teeth worrying his bottom lip. "Are you sure about this? I don't want you to be saying 'yes' over something you ain't sure about."

Frodo's features became sweet and inviting, and his pale thighs parted. No words were spoken, though he trembled. Anticipation, or fear? Samwise moved the fingers that were still inside of Frodo a bit, to gauge his reaction. The ring bearer gasped, but kept his eyes steady upon Sam. He pushed upwards a bit, drawing the digits deeper within him.

Samwise closed his eyes and tried to calm himself; afraid he was going to explode then and there. After a couple of minutes, he felt a bit more in control, and he removed his fingers carefully. He sat up and reached for the jar, meaning to lubricate his penis, but Frodo reached out and touched his wrist. "Let me," He whispered, feeling the need to touch Sam.

The gardener held the jar for Frodo and allowed him to scoop some jelly out. He couldn't suppress a groan as the smaller hobbit's slim hands worked the lubricant over the tightened skin of his penis. Frodo stared at the organ as he touched it, fascinated with it. It was a darker color than his own, ruddy and perfect. He touched the flushed cap, running his fingers over it until Sam hissed and grasped his wrist. "I won't be able to hold off if you don't stop, me dear," The gardener panted. Then he put his hands on Frodo's inner thighs and coaxed them apart, kissing him hungrily.

He lowered himself between Frodo's legs and grasped his penis to position it at his opening. Sam noticed the deep breath Frodo took, and the way he tensed up when his manhood pressed against his sphincter. "Frodo, are you still okay with this?"

Frodo forced himself to relax, and he ran his hands over Sam's strong chest. "Yes, Sam. I need your light inside of me. Wash the darkness away. Please!"

Sam claimed Frodo's waiting lips and pushed his shaft into the slick tightness he was pressed against. He went slowly, kissing the tears away that leaked from Frodo's eyes as the ring bearer groaned in pain. "Oh, it hurts," Frodo whimpered, pushing against Sam's chest.

It killed him to do it, but Samwise continued to slide deeper. "Shhh, me dear. It's gonna get better soon...it has to." Otherwise, why on Middle Earth did Merry and Pippin do it? Frodo's hands clenched into fists, and he sobbed. He was so tight! "Please, try and relax, Frodo. Open up to me."

Frodo panted in quick, short breaths, like a wounded animal. Sam brushed his sweat-soaked hair out of his eyes, moving his hand in long, soothing strokes. "Easy, dearest. Easy." Sam sighed in relief when he felt Frodo begin to relax around him, and he pushed himself the rest of the way in. Frodo gasped and tossed his head, and Sam could faintly feel his prostrate against the underside of his penis. He withdrew a bit, and then thrust again, groaning in ecstasy at how wonderful his Frodo felt. "I love you," He quavered as he began a gentle rhythm.

Frodo's eyes were feverish with pleasure. "Oh...oh, Sam...you...were...right!" He embraced his servant and spread his thighs wider as he continued to pump his hardness in and out. Sam gave a breathless cry and thrust harder, and Frodo began to pant, "Sam... Sam...Sam..." Over and over again, as if he'd forgotten how to say anything else.

Samwise felt his master's penis stiffen up again, and he smiled and closed his eyes, kissing the mouth that chanted his name breathlessly. Frodo began to move his hips, lifting them to meet Sam's deep thrusts. Sam slid his hands beneath Frodo's bottom and lifted him higher, unable to stop himself from deepening the thrusts. "You feel...like..." The gardener couldn't think of anything to compare with the emotional and physical pleasure of Frodo. It felt like more than the joining of two people who loved each other...it was two kindred spirits entwining together to find healing. "Frodo!" Sam cried, spilling himself deep within his master. He felt the warm, wet gush of Frodo's seed against his stomach as the ring bearer orgasmed as well.

Sam took deep, shaky breaths and remained inside of Frodo, kissing his face tenderly. Frodo looked up at him with tears dripping down the sides of his face, but he was smiling. "Thank you, Samwise Gamgee." He whispered.

In the camp, Pearl was smiling. She had heard both Frodo and Sam's cries of release, and was surprised to feel no jealousy. Merry and Pippin slept like rocks through the entire thing.

-To be continued

~**********~

"Cloudburst"

Part 11

Pippin yawned and stretched hugely, then scratched his side and grinned. What a beautiful day it was! Looking beside him, he could see that Merry was still out like a light. He kissed his sleeping lover on the cheek before standing up. He quietly padded over to Pearl and lifted the corner of her blouse enough to check on her wound. Pippin frowned, disliking the way the skin was so puffy and red around the angry wound. Her eyelashes fluttered as she woke up, and she gave him a grin. "Good morning, Pip."

"G'morning, Sissy. How's your shoulder feeling?"

"It's not so bad," She lied, seeing the worried expression on his sweet face. "I could use some water, though."

He immediately fetched his water skin and put it to her cracked lips so that she could drink her fill. "We'll get you to Hobbiton today, Pearl. The Gaffer will fix you right up!"

She nodded, then winced at the hot throb in her shoulder that the movement caused. "I'll be fine, Pippin," She said when he frowned in concern.

"Your lips are so cracked...I'll put some of your jelly on them to help it, after I refill my water skin." He said. Then he stood up and made his way through the bushes, not hearing the weak protests from his sister as he went to the stream. Frodo and Sam must have had a similar idea, he decided, for they weren't anywhere to be seen.

"Oh, fiddlesticks!" Pearl rasped as her brother disappeared behind the foliage. He was going to walk in on Frodo and Sam either doing something, getting dressed, sleeping or (hopefully) just about to return to the camp. She prayed it was the latter...her baby brother was extremely protective of her, and she wasn't sure how he would react if he discovered that Frodo and Sam had explored a more...intimate side of their relationship. Sighing, she tried to relax. What was done, was done. She could only hope that Pippin didn't flip out, if he saw something he wasn't meant to see.

Whistling, Pippin made his way to the stream. He slowed down and stopped whistling when he noticed two figures lying half-covered by a blanket on the ground. His eyes went round and he made a sound as though someone had punched him in the stomach. There was Samwise, naked as the day he was born and flat on his back, with Frodo's pale, nude limbs entangled with his own. The ringbearer was lying on top of the gardener, his head resting on the strong chest and his slim fingers curled into Sam's hair. Both were deep in sleep, and the blanket only covered their waists. Pippin turned to retreat so suddenly that he nearly fell.

"Merry! Merry, wake up! Fro...Fro...Frodo and S-S-Sam...they've...they've..." Pippin sputtered as he grabbed his cousin by the collar and shook him frantically.

"Oh Heavens, Pip...what are you going on about?!" growled Merry in annoyance as the Took blabbered incoherently. He shook the last of sleep off of himself and studied his lover. There were few things in the world that could get Pippin this alarmed. More gently, he said, "Pippin, take a deep breath." When the Took complied and relaxed a little, Merry said, "Now then...what about Frodo and Sam? Are they in danger?"

Pippin shook his head, his brown eyes nearly panicked. "No, nothing like that! I went to the stream to wash my face and refill my waterskin, and I saw.... I s-s-saw..." With a look at Pearl, who had risen up weakly on one elbow, Pippin covered his face. "How could he?! He's supposed to marry my sister!!"

Merry finally began to understand what his lover was trying to say. "Oh.... I see," He murmured. He couldn't say he was actually surprised...he always felt there was more between Sam and Frodo that met the eye-in fact, he had often wondered why this hadn't happened sooner. "Pip, calm down. It's no worse than what you and I have done-"

"But he's engaged to my siiiisteeerrrr!!" Pippin wailed.

"Pippin, shut up and listen to me," Pearl rasped. Shocked, Pippin looked at her with his eyebrows practically in his hair. "I told Samwise to go after him, last night. The whole thing was my idea."

"B-but why, Pearl? Don't you want to be with Frodo?"

She sighed. "Of course, I do. But Frodo was still suffering from his experiences in Cirith Ungol. He was still living in fear. I think you know just as well as I do that Sam is the only person who could have helped him with that."

Pippin started to argue, but couldn't think of anything to say. She was right, now that he thought of it. How could she have instigated such a thing, though? "Doesn't it bother you? I'd be insane if I thought Merry was sleeping with someone else!"

"It bothered me a little at first, but I realized that what's most important here is love. I'd be a blind idiot not to see that the two of them have something special. It's bigger than simple attraction or friendship...it's like...like they're connected. I don't know if it's because of what they went through together during that bloody ring war or if it's because of something else, but I'd be a pretty sad lover if I refused to allow healing to the man I love, wouldn't I?"

Pippin calmed considerably, and Pearl winked at Merry, who was clearly thankful and relieved at her intervention. "Okay, Pearl," Pippin said softly. "I do understand what you mean, but if he hurts you-"

"Don't be a dunderhead, Pip! You know he wouldn't hurt me. Frodo isn't like that!"

Chastened, Pippin nodded. "I know. I just worried...well; you know what I mean. Sam's got a wife, and Frodo has you, so it's different from Merry and I. I just thought that..." He trailed off, not wanting to finish the sentence.

Pearl knew him well enough to understand what he thought, and her expression softened. "I know, Pip. Don't you worry. Frodo isn't going to leave me, and Sam isn't going to leave Rosie. We're all just going to have to work this out on our own. I appreciate you defending me, though."

When her baby brother beamed a proud smile at her, she couldn't help but thank her lucky stars that at least one of her family members hadn't lost all sense of loyalty out of the fiasco in her life.

Sam woke slowly, his body registering that extra weight lay atop it. He opened his eyes and looked down to see Frodo's delicate face turned up at him. The ring bearer lay naked on top of Samwise, his pale limbs entangled with his. Frodo was beautiful in his sleep, with his soft lips parted slightly, and his dark, long lashes casting shadows on his high cheekbones. Sam blushed as his mind played back the events of the evening before. He carefully shifted his master's body to a more comfortable position, for he felt himself responding to the feel of the satiny skin against his and the memories of what the two of them had done. Frodo's eyelids fluttered and opened, and Sam was caught within the lovely, clear blue of those large eyes.

"Sam." Frodo whispered simply. He snuggled against the gardener, and in response, Samwise put his arms around the ring bearer and squeezed gently and protectively.

"Good morning, Mr. Frodo." Sam murmured as he brushed the dark brown curls away from Frodo's eyes.

Frodo blinked, turned pink, and hid his face against Sam's chest. "Oh, please don't let him be ashamed!" Thought Sam.

"Mr. Frodo...are you...okay with what happened?" He involuntarily tensed, expecting the worse.

When Frodo turned his head to look at him again, Sam felt relief so complete he nearly felt dizzy with it. The ring bearer was smiling sweetly. "Yes, Sam. I am actually quite giddy this morning, thanks to you." The delicate smile widened, though the soft white cheeks became even more reddened. "How do you feel about it?"

Sam took a deep breath. "Well...I think I always wanted it to happen, if you take my meaning, Frodo dear. It was so...beautiful. So perfect. I don't suppose that makes any sense." He blushed as his master smiled at him.

"I do know what you mean, Sam. I...I didn't think it was possible for me to ever be free of the fear that's been living inside of me, but thanks to you, I..." He swallowed as tears formed in his eyes, and Samwise tenderly brushed them away with the back of his fingers.

"Frodo, I want you to know that no matter what happens in the future, last night is always going to be as precious to me as the sight of a newborn sprout, pushing it's way up to the sun. I don't want either of us to feel like we did something wrong."

Frodo nodded and rested his head on Sam's chest, closing his eyes in contentment at the reassuring strength of the heartbeat that thrummed against his ear. "Do you think...Pearl will understand? I do intend to tell her. I cannot keep secrets from the woman I love."

Samwise went still for a moment as he tried to think of a way to tell Frodo whose idea the entire thing was. Shaking his head, the gardener finally decided that honesty was best. "Mr. Frodo...Pearl already knows what happened last night."

Frodo's head shot up and his eyes went wide. "Wh...what? How? D-did she see us?" He looked around at the bushes as though he expected his lover to come leaping out at them.

Sam suppressed a chuckle at his friend's panic. "Well, me dear...to tell you the truth, if Pearl hadn't talked me into it, I might not have had the guts to come to you like I did."

Frodo's face was the picture of stupefied amazement. "I don't understand...are you telling me that she approves of this?"

Sam frowned. "I don't rightly know how comfortable she is with it, Mr. Frodo...but she heard you crying in your sleep. She...knew what the trouble was, you see? She told me, 'You go to him, Samwise Gamgee! You heal him, and stop pretending you don't know how or don't want to.' Or something like that. The point is that she knew. She really loves you, Frodo. So do I."

Frodo shook his head. "Oh, goodness! I had no idea...I shan't be able to think of a thing to say to her when we return to camp!"

Samwise smiled. "You just say what you mean, Mr. Frodo. You tell your Pearl how much you love her."

Frodo lowered his gaze bashfully. "What about Rosie? Do you intend to tell her?" He didn't know why it was so important to him that the whole thing was out in the open and cleared between the four of them. Logically, he should be doing his best to hide it, for worry that it would ruin all four relationships.

"I think my Rose had an inkling of how I feel about you, Frodo," Sam said thoughtfully as he stroked his master's naked back. "She doesn't think it's healthy, that's for certain, but she understands. I don't know just what she might do, but I've got a good feeling about it. I'm going to tell her as soon as possible."

Frodo planted a few quick kisses on Sam's chest, then stopped, his eyes going wide. "Oh, Sam...doesn't this hurt?" He said as he looked at the gardener's torso. He hadn't noticed them last night, but there were so many deep bruises on Sam's stomach and sides that it was nearly black and blue all over. He gently traced the patches of discolored skin with his fingertips.

Sam chuckled. "I really wasn't thinking about it, Mr. Frodo. Don't you worry yourself. I'm breathing just fine, so nothing is broken."

Frodo frowned. "Still, I'd like to put some of that willow bark on them...I don't like the look of it."

Sam caressed Frodo's delicate cheekbones, touched by how concerned he was. "Alright, Mr. Frodo. We'll do that." He tried to hide the regret in his voice as he finished, "Right now, we should think about getting back to camp and packing up. Hobbiton is only a few hours away."

Frodo nodded in agreement, a bit of regret deepening his blue eyes. "Yes, Sam. Pearl needs to be seen to right away, even if she is recovering nicely." His feelings of regret turned to worry. "In fact, I'd better check on her right now." He reached for his clothes, blushing as Sam's eyes admired him.

Samwise chuckled as his friend hurriedly pulled his skivvies and trousers on. "You know, Mr. Frodo...you blush like a lass."

Frodo scowled at him and tossed Sam's pants at him, and the gardener laughed harder. Things were going to work out. They had to.

-To be continued

~*************~

"Cloudburst"

Part 12

When Frodo and Sam returned to the camp, everything was packed and ready to go. Pippin gave Frodo a knowing look, and it seemed that the young Took was struggling with his feelings. The ring bearer blushed in spite of himself and avoided his cousin's eyes. Merry was just finishing up with securing Pearl's blankets for the trip. Frodo went over to them and knelt down beside his lover. "Pearl...I..." He trailed off, confused as to what he should say.

She smiled up at him tenderly. "I love you, Frodo Baggins. I trust you'll be having no more nightmares, now?"

Blushing furiously, but smiling all the same, Frodo nodded and kissed her heated cheek. "Thank you, my dear." He whispered. He then mounted their pony and helped Merry place her in front of him on it. Pearl moaned in pain, and Frodo nuzzled her hair and took her hand in his. "Hold on a little longer, love. We'll be in the Shire very soon." Clenching her teeth, she nodded.

"How is that chest doing, Samwise?" Merry questioned as Sam stood there indecisively. It was clear that the gardener didn't feel right about riding while Merry and Pippin walked.

"Oh, it's much better, Merry. In fact, I think I should walk the rest of the way. There's no sense in-"

"Samwise-" Frodo interrupted, giving the gardener a stern look that said he'd better ride or else something unpleasant would happen to him.

Merry chuckled. "I agree with Frodo...you'd best ride anyways. It might seem better, but we still don't know for certain that nothing was broken or damaged inside, and I for one would rather be safe than sorry."

Sighing, Sam pulled himself onto the saddle without further argument. He gave Frodo a petulant look that made the ring bearer grin. "Good lad," Frodo said.

They traveled through the day, and when they finally crested the hills that overlooked the Shire, Frodo brought his mount to a stop. The ring bearer stared at his beloved home, and his eyes filled with tears. Merry and Pippin smiled at each other as they watched Frodo's reactions. "I am home," the ring bearer whispered, as though he could barely believe it. He nudged the pony into a walk again, his sapphire eyes filled with wonder as they drew closer to Hobbiton.

As predicted, the Shire folk were quite surprised to see Frodo Baggins come riding in with his friends. There was pointing and shouts of surprise, and some of them managed to holler a greeting, once they recovered from the shock of seeing him. Merry and Pippin lead the ponies strait to the door of Hamfast Gamgee's house. "Da, we're back with Mr. Frodo!" Called Sam as he dismounted and pushed the door open.

The Gaffer waddled out of one of the hallways and approached his son. "What's all this foolishness, lad...leaving your Rosie and the new babe alone for four days?! I should thrash you good!" He squinted past Samwise to take measure of the hobbits that were his partners in crime. How wide those faded, brown eyes became when he spotted Frodo Baggins cradling a wounded Pearl Took! "Ain't you dead, Mr. Baggins?!" The Gaffer cried hoarsely.

Frodo laughed and shook his head. "No Sir...I have been away, in the Undying Lands. It was the only place I could go to find the healing that my wounds required."

The Gaffer snorted, his surprise worn off quickly. "Well, now that you're back, you'd better be staying. It's no way to treat a lass, running off and leaving her pregnant, like that!" He shook his walking stick at Frodo.

The ring bearer smiled gently at old Hamfast. Sam's Father hadn't changed, in all these years! "Yes sir. I intend to make up for that, as soon as possible." He knew that explaining the situation would just look like excuses to the Gaffer.

"What's wrong with Miss Took? She looks a mite pale." Asked Hamfast, his wiry brows drawn together in concern.

"Da, we had an...Encounter. I don't want to go into details, because Pearl is sick and needs help right now. Let's just say an old enemy found us and we barely got away with our hides." Samwise said.

The Gaffer studied his son, sucking on his teeth. "Alright, lad. Let's get the little lady inside, so's I can have a good look at her."

Merry and Pippin carefully lifted Pearl off of the pony and carried her inside, and Frodo followed anxiously. "Bell! I need you to boil up some water!" Shouted the Gaffer as he led them into one of the bedrooms.

Sam's mother came pattering out from the kitchen, and her shock at seeing Frodo, plus the confusion over what was going on made her go rigid upon seeing them. "Samwise...what is going on here?" Bell asked.

The Gaffer interrupted Sam as the gardener opened his mouth to answer his mother. "Frodo's back from wherever he went to. Pearl's sick. I need you to boil some water, woman!"

Bell quickly turned and went into the kitchen to do as her husband said. Though Hamfast was somewhat of a grouch, he never snapped at his wife unless something dire was happening, so she took no offence at his tone.

Pearl moaned and thrashed a little as they gently set her down on the bed, and Hamfast's gnarled, old hands brushed the damp curls away from her forehead gently. "Easy there, Lass. I know it hurts, but you've got to be strong. You just let old Hamfast have a look at that wound, you hear?"

Frodo took her hand and squeezed it as the Gaffer pulled aside the fold of her blouse and took the poultice away. The old hobbit examined the wound with practiced ease, probing the puffy, red tissue around the hole. Pearl cried out, and he patted her healthy shoulder soothingly. Then, he turned to the others. "All of you get out, except for Mr. Frodo!"

They moved to obey so quickly that Pippin would have fallen on his face if Merry hadn't steadied him. To Frodo, the Gaffer whispered, "There's infection around the wound. I'm going to have to lance it before I clean it up. You just hold your lasses? hand and keep her distracted while I'm doing it. You ain't gonna pass out at the sight of blood, are you?" His eyes measured the ring bearer doubtfully, clearly believing that Frodo's too-pretty features and gentle demeanor denoted squeamish tendencies.

"No sir. I won't leave her side for anything, even if I do get a tad nauseous." The blue eyes were sincere and full of love as they looked down on the ailing lass.

The Gaffer nodded. "Good. Bell! I need you to get my instruments and heat up the lancing needle, too!"

"Where are they?" Came the shouted reply.

Hamfast rolled his eyes. "They're where they always were, in the top-left cupboard!"

Pearl grimaced, feeling sorry for Bell Gamgee. Poor woman, to be shouted at like this. It wasn't Bell's fault that she was wounded. She almost told the Gaffer to lay off....almost. For once, she quelled her Took-ish impulsiveness, reckoning that it wouldn't be a good idea to offend the hobbit that was trying to save he life. Looking up at Frodo, she could see how frightened he was for her, and she forced a brave little smile for his benefit. He kissed her hand and smiled back.

Bell entered the room shortly after, carrying a pot of heated water. A long, metal tool was sticking out of the water, and the woman had towels draped over one shoulder, and a leather bag hanging from the other. She set the water, bag and towels down beside the bed and gave Pearl a motherly smile. "Brave lass," She said, giving the younger woman a gentle pat on the head. "I'll boil up some Athelas for the pain." Samwise had come up with the idea that the Hobbits should cultivate the plant, after finding out its useful properties in his adventures. His parents had a special row set aside in their garden to grow it.

"Good thinking, me dear." Said the Gaffer with an apologetic smile. His wife patted him on the head to show that all was forgiven, and then she exited the room. Turning back to Pearl, he said, "Alright, lass. This is going to sting, but it needs to be done. You'll feel a lot better once all that bad stuff is drained out of you. Are you ready?"

Pearl kept her green eyes fixed on Frodo's face as she nodded. Hamfast pulled the lancing needle out of the water and put one hand on the swollen flesh around the wound, pushing a bit to make it bulge out. Pearl bit her lip and fought back a moan when she felt the needle push into her skin. "Easy, lass...just a little more," Said the Gaffer as he pushed it deeply into the abscessed tissue.

Pearl choked in pain and squeezed Frodo's hand hard enough to make the bones creak. He ignored the pain of the tight grip and began to murmur endearments to her in elvish. The melodic, flowing words soothed her, though she could not understand him. "I need you to teach me how to talk like that, sometime," She said deliriously, and he smiled.

In the lounge room, Pippin sat with Sam, Merry and Bell, and the Took's legs shook as he nervously pumped his feet on the floor. "Your sister is going to be just fine," Bell soothed. "She's a very strong young woman, and Hamfast knows what he's doing."

Pippin nodded, but could not calm down. He began to bite his nails and cast furtive glances down the hallway, and when Pearl cried out from the back room, he stood up and started to go to her. Merry stepped in front of him and put his hands on his shoulders. "No, Pip! If you go in there, you'll just distract Mr. Gamgee."

"Let me go, Merry! My sister's in pain!" He struggled in the Brandybuck's arms until Samwise had to lend his strength to hold Pippin back. The Took began to cry heartbrokenly, and Merry's eyes welled up as well.

"I'm sorry, Pippin...I know you want to be with Pearl, but there's not enough room in there! You'll just have to trust Mr. Gamgee. He's never failed to so something he's set his mind to before, and Frodo's in there with Pearl. Please, Pippin? Please, just sit down and wait until the Gaffer says it's okay to go in."

"She's hurt because of me!" Pippin cried, his shoulders shaking with his sobs. "If she hadn't jumped in front of me, she wouldn't be hurt like that!" He stopped fighting and cried against Merry's chest as the Brandybuck pulled him into his arms.

"Shhh, Pippin...think about it. If the situation had been reversed, you would have jumped in front of her, wouldn't you?" Merry whispered.

Pippin nodded, and his cousin rocked him gently. "Well then, how can you blame yourself like this? Pearl made the choice to take the blow for you...just as you would have done for her. Stop blaming yourself. It's not as if you purposely stood there waiting for Shelob's stinger to come down, just so you could make your sister jump in front of you. It was her choice, and she's going to be fine. I know she will, Pippin." He brushed his lover's tears from his face when he looked up at him.

"Alright, Merry. I...I'll try to be still and wait." Pippin sniffled. Sam blew a sigh of relief and gave his Mother a nod, for she had looked alarmed by the brief scuffle.

They had no idea how much time passed before the Gaffer came out of the hallway. Blood stained his tunic and shirt, and he wiped sweat from his brow. "Well, I cleaned out the infection and found a couple of odd looking, black barbs inside of the wound. I think I got all of them. She's all sutured up and on the mend. Bell, you'll want to bring her that tea now, to help her heal faster and sleep." Bell went into the kitchen immediately.

Pippin broke into sobs of relief and leaned weakly against Merry, while Samwise smiled at his father. "Thanks, Da." The gardener said.

Hamfast waved a hand as if to say it was all in a day's work. "Now son, I think you should be getting your bottom over to Bag End and checking in with your wife. She's been worried sick about you!"

Samwise nodded. "Yes sir. I'll do that now." He hurried off anxiously, happy to go to Rosie, now that he knew Pearl would be all right.

-To be continued

~***********~

"Cloudburst"

Part 13

"Rosie! I'm home!" Sam called as he entered his burrow. He blushed when he realized he had just shouted needlessly, for she was sitting on the lounge right in front of him, holding their tiny new son to her breast.

She smiled lovingly at him as he sat down beside her. "Welcome back, darling." She said, "I trust you've brought Mr. Baggins home with you? Little Sammy came to stay last night, claiming he knew his Papa and Mama were going to come to Hobbiton first. He's out playing with Elanor, now."

Sam shook his head in wonder at the little Baggin's sharp intuition. "That little fellow is always one step ahead of everyone, isn't he? Well, yes, Frodo is back. He's at my Da's house with Pearl, Merry and Pippin."

Sam explained everything that had happened over the last four days, and Rosie was pale by the time he finished. "Oh, dear! To think that awful creature was even still alive! Let me see your chest!"

He knew better than to argue with her, so he pulled his shirt off and showed her his bruised torso. She pursed her lips. "And you didn't have the Gaffer look at those, did you?" It wasn't a question.

Sam ducked his head contritely. "No...I was too worried about getting Pearl taken care of. It's only bruises, Rosie. Honest!"

She shifted little Frodo and burped him, then closed her blouse and gave Sam a level stare. "Be that as it may, I still want you to have it looked at. It may only feel like bruises, but something could be damaged inside."

He nodded and looked down. Now was as good a time as any to tell her what had happened between he and Frodo. Clearing his throat, he said, "Rosie...there's something I need to tell you. You're not gonna like it, but I've got to be honest with you. Last night, Frodo was crying in his sleep...he was having nightmares about Cirith Ungol again."

He looked at her uncertainly, and she patiently waited for him to continue. "I never told anybody this, me dear, but Mr. Frodo was...hurt...by the orcs that held him prisoner. They...they raped him. I found him naked, with blood all over his thighs...it was horrible!" He swallowed hard, fighting tears at the memory. Every time he thought of that day, the pain of knowing he had come too late to stop them from violating his beloved master was just as fresh as it was then.

Rosie put a hand to her mouth. She knew that Frodo had underwent some horrid things on their journeys...more than any Hobbit should have to endure in their life-time. But this? She could clearly picture her gentle, sweet husband finding the broken, abused form of Mr. Baggins. She could envision his ruddy face going through a series of expressions as he realized what was done to Frodo. "Oh, Sam!" She said, tears filling her eyes. "Poor Mr. Baggins...I never quite understood why he became so skittish of other men touching him, after the two of you returned...I never knew!"

Sam appreciated the sincere distress his wife was having at the news. She really did care about Frodo. After all, Mr. Baggins had been the one to convince Sam to get over his shyness and ask her to marry him. "Well, Rosie...I couldn't stand him suffering like that anymore," He continued. "I...I didn't know what to do, but Pearl did. She...she told me to go to him....to be with him. I did, Rosie. I made love to him, to drive away those fears forever, and to heal myself, as well."

He swallowed as her eyes went blank. "Rose? Please say something. I didn't do it to hurt anyone...least of all you. Please, don't hate me. Rosie?" The horrifying thought that this was going to end their marriage made Sam begin to weep.

After a long moment, her hazel eyes turned to him, and her lips turned up. "So, you finally did it. You took what you've wanted, for all these years."

Sam shook his head. "Rosie...I want you! I...I suppose a part of me wants Mr. Frodo, but it's not the same! Please don't leave me over this!"

She put her fingers to his lips to shush him. "I'm not going to leave you, Samwise Gamgee. I know you did it purely out of love, simple darling that you can be. I understand why you did it, too. I know you never would have gotten the courage to do it if Mr. Baggins wasn't suffering like that."

Sam stared in stupefied amazement, and she managed not to grin. She wasn't about to let him off the hook so easily. "I'm glad you told me what happened to Frodo in that tower, Samwise...I'm not so sure I could forgive you so easily, if you hadn't. I'm not saying you can have both of us, though. Your family needs you, and I don't want you distracted from your responsibilities by Mr. Baggins. I want you to promise me that this will not turn into an affair. Can you do that?"

He nodded. "Yes, Rosie...I swear! It won't ever happen again." He was so relieved that she wasn't leaving him that he didn't realize exactly what he was saying.

Rose did, however. "Now, don't say that it'll never happen again, Sam. I don't trust that promise. I'd rather you make one that you can keep."

He frowned in confusion. "What do you mean?"

She smiled fondly at him, tweaking his blond curls. "I mean that sometime down the line...even if it's years from now, you two won't be able to keep your hands off of each other. I'm not blind, Samwise. What I want you to promise me is that it doesn't become a regular thing. It's the best I can hope for."

Sam nodded slowly. "I see. I...I suppose that makes sense, though I'd like to think I have more restraint than that. If that's what'll make you happy, that's what I'll promise, sweetheart."

She smiled. "Good enough. Now, you get to change the nappies." Then she handed the baby to him and chuckled at the face he made when he smelled little Frodo's latest present.

Someone was singing to her. Pearl fought her way out of sleep and opened her eyes to see Frodo looking down at her. His fingers stroked her hair as he softly sang a lullaby. "Are you the sweetest?" She said. It came out raspy, for her throat was very dry. His kind, blue eyes lit up as he smiled at her.

"How are you feeling?" He questioned.

She thought about the question, and grinned. "Compared to how I was when we first got here, I feel like I could run a marathon, Mr. Baggins."

He laughed and kissed her softly. "Pippin's been in here several times already, and Merry stopped in a couple of times to check on you as well. I'm amazed that you're awake so soon."

"How long have I slept?"

He shrugged. "No more than four hours. The Gaffer says you'll be on your feet again in a couple of days. He did a wonderful job, cleaning your wound out." He regarded her seriously and nibbled his bottom lip for a moment. Then he whispered, "Pearl, there is something unfinished between you and I. I mean to change that as soon as possible. I know that you've said you aren't interested in marriage, but I cannot take no for an answer. Will you be my wife?"

She stared up at him silently, her features painted with bewilderment. He braced himself, expecting her to refuse. When she simply nodded and began to weep silently, he relaxed and smiled widely. "By Elbereth...you can make a lad a nervous wreck, my love!" He said. "I was afraid you would refuse!"

She laughed and reached up with her right hand to stroke his cheek. "I had to give you a challenge, didn't I? Otherwise, I wouldn't be a Took! Now, give me another kiss, my pretty lad."

He chuckled breathlessly and pressed his mouth against hers, teasing her with his tongue. She purred and returned the action, amazed that he could get her so aroused when she was so ill. She hungrily explored the heat of his mouth with her tongue, letting him know he would be in for trouble as soon as she was well enough to jump his bones. When the kiss finally broke, they stared at one another, and both were breathing heavily. "It's been too long," Frodo decided.

Pearl nodded in agreement. "You'd better be prepared, Mr. Baggins. As soon as I'm well, you aren't leaving my bedroom until I've had my fill of you...and I don't think that's possible!"

He smiled and looked at her coyly, blue flames emitting from beneath lowered lashes. "Hmmm...spend the rest of my life in Pearl Took's bedroom. I do believe I could handle that."

There was a knock on the door, and Pearl rolled her eyes. How did people time things so horribly?! "Mr. Frodo? It's Sam...there's someone here with me who wants to meet you." Came the gardener's voice from behind the door.

Frodo groaned inwardly. As much as he adored children, he was getting a bit fed up with so many of them coming to find out if he really was missing a finger. It seemed that once he left the Shire, he suddenly had become a local legend. It was strange, to come home and find that people admired him all the sudden. "Very well, Sam." He said without enthusiasm. He turned around to face whoever would be coming through the threshold.

The door creaked open, and a small, delicate face peeped around the corner. Frodo's lips parted, and his head tilted. There was something hauntingly familiar about this little lad. Large, blue eyes, which were identical to the ring bearer's own orbs, looked up at him. Shyly, the child came into the room. He smiled. Frodo felt his heart skip a beat. That smile...it was so much like Pearl's! He began to feel light-headed. This lad was almost the spitting image of Frodo, save the dark golden curls and the way he smiled.

There could be only one explanation. Nobody in the Shire had eyes of that color, except for Frodo himself. No hobbits were built like that, as slender as an elf...except for Frodo himself. He began to tremble as the little boy approached him, one step at a time. "S...Sammy?" The ring bearer whispered past the lump that was forming in his throat.

"Hello, Papa. I knew you'd be okay!" The lad replied, coming to a stop in front of him. On the bed, Pearl smiled through the tears that suddenly sprung into her eyes.

"Frodo, meet our son. Samwise Baggins." She said.

Frodo's lips moved as he struggled to say something. He fell to his knees in front of his child and cupped the small face that smiled at him. Tears filled his blue eyes, and a soft sob escaped his lips. "I'm sorry," He managed to gulp. "I...I should have...been there..." Overcome, he gathered the lad into his arms and held him tightly.

Sammy hugged his father and whispered, "You had to get better. Don't be sad, Papa. We're together, now."

Frodo shook with the force of his emotions, and he closed his eyes and rocked his son back and forth. From the doorway, Sam leaned on the threshold and smiled, wiping his eyes. Then he quietly closed the door to give them their privacy. After several moments, the ring bearer pulled back and held his son at arms length. "Let me have a good look at you. My, you do have your mother's smile." He cupped the child's chin and smiled, sniffling from a runny nose.

Sammy reached out and touched the silver strand of hair that tumbled with Frodo's dark curls. "I knew the dream meant you were coming home, because in Mama's sketch of you, there isn't any grey in your hair. Will you teach me some elvish songs, Papa?"

Frodo managed not to sob again. "Mmm-hmm. Anything you want, Little One. We have all the time in the world, now."

-To be continued.

~*************~

"Cloudburst"

Part 14

Sam was surprised and grateful when Rose insisted that Frodo, Pearl, Merry, Pippin and Sammy stay at Bag End for a while. He knew it must have taken a lot of guts for her to do that, considering what she had learned about Sam and Frodo. Pearl was recovering nicely, and Frodo and Sammy were practically inseparable. By day, they took walks together and played Hide and Seek, along with little Elanor. By night, Sammy always crawled into his father's lap and listened to the tales he would tell. Each and every time, he would fall asleep listening to Frodo's melodic voice, and the ring bearer would carry him to the bedroom and tuck him in.

One day, Frodo noticed that none of the other hobbit children ever asked Sammy to play. The poor lad would have been virtually friend-less, if it weren't for Elanor. He knew why, of course. Like himself, Sammy was an enigma. He didn't have all of the same interests that the other children had, and his behavior was strange to them. It strongly reminded Frodo of his own youth. Pearl noticed the troubled expression on Frodo's face as he watched a group of children ask Elanor to come and play catch with them. Sammy was standing right beside her, yet they completely overlooked him as though he wasn't there. Elanor politely refused, as she always did while Sammy was in Hobbiton.

"That's normal, Frodo." Pearl said, embracing him from behind.

He turned around to face her, sliding his hands around her waist. "I am not surprised. He's very much like myself at that age. I just worry that it will eventually effect him, as he gets older. Look at the mess I turned out to be!"

She laughed and kissed him soundly. "Don't be silly, my gentle hobbit. You're exotic...not cracked." She sighed and rested her cheek against his chest. "Sammy's fine with it...really. Even if the other children did invite him to play, he probably wouldn't enjoy it very much. Between Elanor, Merry and Pippin, our little lad has plenty of playmates...believe me."

Frodo grinned. "Merry and Pippin are practically children themselves. I wonder what sort of trouble those two are getting into?" He looked around for his cousins, finding no sign of them.

"They went for a walk, so that they could spend some time together." Pearl answered.

Frodo was confused. "They do know that Rose is aware of their relationship, don't they? She wouldn't have invited them to stay, if it bothered her."

Pearl shrugged. "Pip said that he didn't feel comfortable being intimate with Merry under Rosie's roof. I'm a little worried about them, Frodo. I think all of the sneaking around is getting to Pippin. Surely they wouldn't be kicked out of Buckland if they let everyone know the truth?" She chewed her nails uncertainly.

Frodo gently pulled her hand away from her mouth. "Now, now, Kitten. I'll not let you get into that horrible habit." He smiled gently, and she giggled. "I do now know what the Bucklanders would do, if they found out. I feel as if they would be fairly accepting, once the shock wore off. The Shire, however, might not be so forgiving...especially Hobbiton. You know how they are here."

She frowned. "Yes, I know that all too well. They think my family is full of crackpots."

Frodo grinned. "Oh, well that's true enough..."

He jumped away as Pearl tried to swat him. "I'm going to get you for that, Frodo Baggins!" She shouted. Laughing, he ran from her, and she followed. Rose stepped outside at that moment, carrying a basket of clothing that she meant to hang out on the line.

"Samwise, come and take a look at this," She hollered over her shoulder. Her husband came out beside her and stared at the spectacle she was indicating.

It was almost shocking, to tell the truth. There, near the trees, played Elanor and Sammy. The lad was chasing the giggling lass around the base of a tree. Not more than a hundred yards to the left of that sweet scene, Sammy's parents were playing a similar game. Pearl was shouting and waving her fists in mock anger, and Frodo ran from her, laughing like a child. "Well, I'll be," Sam said with a grin. "They're like a couple of tweenagers. It does my heart good to see them both so happy again." He wiped moisture from his eyes, and Rose put her arm around his waist and kissed his cheek.

"I hope Pearl has the sense not to go rough-housing with Frodo. She's still got some healing to do, before she can afford to be rowdy." Rosie said with a frown. The couple was quickly getting out of visual range as they cut into some wheat fields.

"Don't worry your pretty head, Rosie. Frodo wouldn't let Pearl hurt herself. He knows how easy it is to aggravate old wounds."

Frodo dodged and leaped as Pearl struggled to catch up to him. The chase might have gone on for a long time, if the ring bearer had watched where he was going more carefully. He tripped on a fallen tree branch that was lying on the ground and went down almost face-first. As he turned around onto his back, Pearl lunged at him, landing on top of him. "Oof! Pearl...be careful of your shoulder, dear!" He said.

She winced and rubbed it a bit, but didn't let the ache interfere with her play. "I've got you now, Mr. Baggins," She said with a wicked grin. Then she straddled him and grasped his wrists, putting them over his head.

He smiled and did not resist, allowing her to "subdue" him. She kissed the planes of his face and his neck, purring all the while. He returned her small, frantic kisses, no less eager himself. "I've missed you so," He murmured against her lips. She responded by lifting her hips to tug his white, cotton shirt out of his pants. When she succeeded, her small, deft hands slid beneath the garment and explored his stomach and chest.

When Frodo began to embrace her, she growled huskily, "Leave the hands over your head, my fine lad." Surprised, he did as she asked. Goodness, she was demanding today! He found that he rather liked it.

Pearl touched her lover almost frantically, her desires too long denied. She couldn't seem to decide where to touch him, and desperately wished that she had more hands, so that she could caress his entire body at once. His blue eyes were half-lidded with pleasure, his lips parted and moist. She wondered how Sam had touched him...was the gardener more firm with his strokes? Less? Did he use his mouth? She flushed at the direction her own thoughts were leading to. If other women thought she was strange before, they would surely flip over the images going through her mind now! The impish Took wondered if she was completely perverted, imagining her lover with another man.

Frodo saw the gleam in her eyes and the half-dreamy expression on her face as her touches slowed to a more controlled pace. He knew her well enough to understand that look; She was up to something. He swallowed hard, wondering what his little Kitten was contemplating. "Pearl?" He asked quietly, uncertain.

She smiled at him, looking partly predatory. She wasn't about to give away the thoughts that were going through her mind. "Later, my gentle hobbit," She said breathlessly, and then her lips descended onto his in a possessive, searing kiss that made him gasp. Her hand cupped the hard bulge between his legs, rubbing it through the material of his trousers. He raised his hips to press himself more firmly into her grasp, moaning against her mouth.

Pearl was caught up in a tide of joy and arousal, and an idea had formed in her head that was purely naughty. How would Frodo respond if she asked him to describe the encounter he had with Samwise? Would he? * Pearl Took, you're becoming a dirty old woman! * She thought to herself as she massaged his groin and made him whimper with need. Time enough to satisfy her curiosity later. Right now, she had to have Frodo within her, or she would explode from the lust she felt! "Frodo," She rasped, kissing his throat and collar bone. Her fingers worked at the buttons of his trousers, and she smiled when he started to help her, then remembered he was supposed to keep his hands over his head. It was clearly and effort for him to keep the submissive pose. Perhaps a little game with ropes later this evening would remedy that?

Frodo stared up at her in puzzlement as a giggle shook her small frame. "Here now, you've never laughed at it before!" He said in half-hurt tones, for the timing of her explosion of mirth came about right as his swollen penis was freed of his pants.

Pearl furrowed her brow for a moment, then chuckled again when she realized why he had said that. "Oh no, Mr. Baggins...there's absolutely nothing funny about your pretty explorer, there." His eyes closed and he sighed as she gripped the stiffened member, stroking it gently. "I was just laughing at a Took-ishly wicked thought that popped into my head." She kissed his sensitive lips, nibbling them hungrily as she fondled him.

"Wh-what thought w-was that?" He gasped, arching his back in pleasure.

She grinned. "You'll have to wait until tonight to find out, luv."

She doubted that he heard her response. Her lovely lad was clearly stupefied with pleasure, and it made her feel exhilarated to know she held such power over him. It was an interesting change...normally it was Frodo who exerted dominance in their lovemaking. * I could get used to this * She thought. Unable to wait any longer, she stopped stroking him for a moment, smiled at the look of disappointment that flashed over his expressive face, and undid her own trousers. "Patience, Mr. Baggins," She whispered; though she was hardly one to talk. She didn't bother to remove their shirts...someone could come along at any time, so this was unfortunately going to be a quick relief for the couple.

Frodo smiled at her as she settled herself atop him after pushing her trousers aside. The smile became an open-mouthed gasp of pleasure as she took him inside of her and began to rock against him. "Pearl," He moaned, grasping her hips and undulating his own. She didn't bother remonstrating him for forgetting to keep his hands over his head. She needed him too badly.

Pearl groaned deeply and traced his delicate features with her fingertips. "How did I survive without you for all these years?" She panted, hardening her thrusts. He raised his upper body off of the ground so that he was sitting up, and his arms came about her waist to hold her tightly.

"My...Pearl..." He said shakenly as he buried his face in her bosom, "My beautiful...Kitten..." He tilted his head back so that he could kiss her, his tongue thrusting deeply into her mouth.

Breath hitching in their pleasure, the lovers moved against each other almost violently, both caught up in their excitement and need. Frodo tangled his fingers into her hair and pulled insistently, and she bared her throat to him in compliance. His hungry lips tasted the smooth skin of her neck...felt the pulse raging beneath it. Her fingertips dug into his back as the pressure within grew quickly, and she bit he lip and cried his name when her climax came. Panting helplessly, Frodo bucked his hips and thrust deeply within her, making her breath catch. "Elbereth, I had...almost forgotten...what you...felt like!" Frodo groaned. He orgasmed so hard that his eyes nearly crossed from the pleasure of it. "Pearl!" He shouted, not caring if the whole Shire heard him.

Frodo would have fainted with embarrassment if he had known that Merry and Pippin were only a short distance away in the very same field. They heard his yell of release, and grinned at each other. "Well now...I suppose this means your sister is all healed up, dear." Said Merry. Pippin pinched his lips to stop the giggles that began to shake his frame, but it was useless. Merry laughed with him as the Took doubled over with mirth.

"Poor Frodo," Pippin said, wiping his eyes. "He's not going to be able to walk for days, when she's through with him." Merry laughed as he pictured Frodo wobbling around as though he had been riding in the saddle for a week.

"Now, that would be funny!" The Brandybuck said.

-To be continued

~*************~

"Cloudburst"

Part 15

~Warning: This chapter contains graphic sex (Frodo and Pearl). While that's pretty much the norm for these two characters, this particular scene is kinky...so beware!~

"Papa, who was Gandalf, really? Where did he come from?" Little Sammy questioned as he sat on his father's lap.

Frodo smiled, knowing his son would not be able to remain awake for a long explanation. Today, they had all played hard (Frodo and Pearl, especially). "Well, Gandalf is an Istari...a wizard, as Men call them. The elves believe that the Istari were messengers sent by the Lords of the West. Their purpose is to guard against Sauron, and to encourage all creatures of good heart to fight evil together."

Sammy yawned and curled his fingers into Frodo's hair. "But, I thought Gandalf was a Man?"

Frodo nodded. "All of the Istari look like old men, but they do not grow any older. In fact, when Gandalf came back to us after we thought he was lost, he seemed a bit younger. I wish I knew more to tell you, little one. I never thought to ask him more about it. He was always the Wandering Wizard, to we Hobbits."

"I wish...I could meet him, sometime. I'd like to see his fireworks." The child's eyelids were growing heavy, and Frodo shared a smile with Pearl, who sat next to him.

Kissing the child's soft curls, Frodo murmured, "Anything could happen. I've learned that the hard way. Now, let's get you tucked into bed." Sammy didn't argue. He put his arms around Frodo's neck as his father lifted him, and Pearl followed them to the guest bedroom that Sammy slept in. Frodo slipped his son beneath the covers and sang the lullaby the child loved so much. With a contented sigh, the lad drifted off to sleep. Pearl and Frodo both watched him for a bit, their hands searching and finding each other's.

"Thank you, for giving me such a beautiful son, Kitten." Frodo whispered, kissing her on the cheek.

She turned to him, her eyes glittering in the faint lamplight. "If you're a good lad, I might be willing to give you another," She teased, pinching his bottom.

"You are so naughty," He chuckled softly, drawing her out of the room. They passed Rose in the hall and exchanged goodnights with her, before retiring to their own bedroom. Frodo barely had time to get the door closed and turn around before Pearl was in his arms, kissing him desperately. His surprise was overcome by his delight, and he willingly returned the kiss, pulling her hard against him. He felt that he could not get enough air...he was suffocating in the kiss. Pearl began to pull him towards the bed, and he followed eagerly.

When they broke the kiss and crawled onto the bed, Frodo noticed something that made his blue eyes go round. There were...restraints...tied to the bed. One on each of the four posters. He looked at Pearl, and she was biting her lip and grinning mischievously. She would have to thank Rosie for providing those strips of linen, tomorrow. "Umm...Pearl?" Frodo said a tad nervously, as she crawled closer to him. He was suddenly reminded of the way a cat stalked a bird, and he swallowed. He had little doubt about who those restraints were meant for...she had become very sexually aggressive, once her shoulder was healed.

"Don't tell me you're afraid, gentlehobbit," She purred, licking his chin teasingly as she came within reach of him. He chuckled breathlessly as she pushed on his shoulders, coaxing him to lie on his back. "I told you that you wouldn't be leaving my bed until I've had my fill of you. Don't you remember?" Her voice was dripping sensuality and lust.

Frodo's breath quickened and his pulse raced. This was a bit more than he expected! "What do you intend to do to me?" He murmured as she began to unbutton his shirt. The green eyes flashed up at him, and she did not answer. Oh, dear. He felt weak all over, and he began to tremble as her lips tasted his pale flesh as her hands smoothly revealed more and more of it to her sight.

"Relax, Frodo. I'm not going to hurt you," She purred huskily. She hadn't meant to frighten him. His sapphire gaze was heated and worried at the same time, and she bit back a laugh. She bent her head and began to lap at the pink buds of his nipples with her tongue, one at a time, as she began to work on getting his trousers removed. A slight, shaken breath, and he began to relax his lithe body. His fingers traced patterns on her back as she alternately suckled and licked his nipples.

Frodo closed his eyes, forgetting his fear as she stimulated his body. He moved restlessly beneath her, becoming painfully aroused from her light touches and sucking lips. He wanted to roll over on top of her and rip her clothes off, yet he knew that might spoil the moment. So he fought to be still and patient, biting back moans as she slipped his trousers and skivvies off. Now, this really wasn't fair. He was completely nude, and she still had every stitch of clothing on! He raised his eyebrows at her meaningfully, his lapis eyes moving up and down her form. "Well?" He said, smiling.

Pearl slid gracefully onto the bed again after tossing his britches to the floor. "Well, what? I'm waiting for you to assume the position, Mr. Baggins."

She traced his delicate lips with the tip of her finger as he stammered and stuttered. His cheeks turned bright pink, and she smiled in adoration...thrilled that she could still make him blush like that. "Here...let me help you," She murmured, realizing he wasn't sure what she wanted of him. She had never gotten kinky like this before...she thought she might orgasm just thinking about it! * Dirty, dirty lass, * She scolded herself as she arranged her lover's limbs. She smiled as he allowed her to bind his wrists and ankles.

When the job was done, she stood up, put her hands on her hips, and admired Frodo's naked and now helpless form. He was bound with his arms spread over his head and his legs spread beneath him, and he blushed from head to toe, though his erect penis pointed strait up at the ceiling, in all it's glory. "Pearl, please...this is rather humiliating...would you get into the bed?" Frodo said bashfully.

She chuckled. "Oh, I just thought I'd leave you like that, while I go and get a bite to eat. When I'm finished with that, my dear hobbit lad, I'll come back and have my dessert." She gazed meaningfully as his throbbing shaft. Ignoring the panic on his face, she turned around to leave the room.

"P-P-Pearl! Where do you th-think you are going? Don't leave m-me like this!" He cried. He calmed down somewhat when she began to shake with laughter. Oh, the wicked little minx! She had no intention of leaving him alone like this! "Oh, you have really outdone yourself, Kitten," He said breathlessly, relieved as she turned around and began to come back. "Just you wait...one good turn deserves another."

She was smiling as though counting on such payback as she crawled onto the bed and straddled him. He gasped as rough material of her pants rubbed against the tip of his organ, and his body jerked. "So tell me, my blue-eyed darling," She purred, falling down onto her side next to him, "What did Sam do to you?" She propped herself up on one elbow and drew patterns on his smooth, ivory-peach flesh.

Frodo went hot and cold all over, and all at once. Botheration...was she jealous? Is that what this was about? "I...I thought that you weren't bothered by what happened," He said in confusion, his delicate features troubled.

Pearl stopped and stared at him. Oh, no! Poor dear...he completely misunderstood! "No, Frodo...that isn't what I meant," She whispered, kissing his velvety lips softly. "I've been sort of...fantasizing." She blushed and averted her eyes as he looked at her in amazement. "Not about Sam, really...just...wondering what he did. I can't get the pictures out of my head, and I thought you might...you know. Share it with me?"

If possible, Frodo's eyes widened even further. "You mean, you wish for me to describe how he touched me?" He whispered in disbelief. Her mouth suddenly covered his, and he was taken aback by the raw hunger in the kiss. Well, there was his answer. Her fingers began to rub the rosy cap on his manhood, in slow, gentle circles. He hissed at the sensation, and the organ jerked slightly. "Pearl," He gulped, trying to control the mindless urges to rub against her teasing fingers. "Is this...I mean, do you...are you attracted to Samwise?"

She pulled back with and expression of surprise on her impish face. "Well, no! He's a cute lad and all, don't get me wrong, but I don't feel any sexual attraction to him."

Frodo's brow furrowed. "I do not understand, then. Why do you want to know what he did to me? It almost sounds like...like you w-wanted to be there."

She grinned. "Oh I did, my pretty lad, but only to watch your face while he made love to you...and to kiss you and touch you. I know it sounds odd, but will you please humor me? I can't stop thinking about it!" She hid her face against his chest for a moment, and he could literally feel the heat of her skin as she blushed.

She raised her head to look into his bewildered, blue eyes and said, "Oh, alright...here it is. Your marrying the most perverted hobbit-woman in the Shire! I can't help it!"

His delicate lips curved into a smile, and he began to laugh. "Life certainly won't be boring with you, will it?" He questioned.

Her heart thudded in her breast. "Do you mean you don't think I'm off my nut, asking you to describe it for me?"

He blushed hotly and lowered his gaze. "I'm...somehow not surprised, now that you've explained it to me. If you really want me to, I will describe what happened between Sam and I as best I can. It's rather embarrassing, though."

She began to kiss him softly, nibbling his lips with her teeth. "I'll make your forget about being embarrassed, pretty lad." She promised.

Swallowing hard, he said, "F-first, he kissed my cheeks."

Pearl frowned, wondering just which cheeks he was talking about. Frodo must have read her eyes, for he burst into nervous chuckles. "On my face, beloved." He grinned foolishly up at her, and she giggled at her over-imaginative mind. "You ARE a perverted little lass, aren't you?"

"Oh, quiet, you!" She said, embarrassed. "Let's see...like this?" She planted a soft kiss on each of his cheeks. "Be descriptive, now."

Frodo cleared his throat. "Yes...like that."

"What next?" She questioned. This wasn't so bad.

"I believe it was my nose-" She kissed the tip of his nose. "And then, my chin-" She kissed his chin. "And then, my lips." She kissed his lips. She didn't draw back, however. She kissed him deeply, thrusting her tongue into his mouth and exploring the depths within. He did not complain...it was certainly just as nice.

A little breathless, she pulled away and said, "What next?"

"He messaged my scalp with his fingers."

Oooh, Samwise was quite the romantic one, wasn't he? She slid her hand beneath his head and rubbed firmly, figuring that Sam's strong fingers likely applied more pressure than her own. Frodo made a sound that was almost identical to the soft purrs she normally made, and she stared at him. "I do believe Sam was onto something, gentlehobbit," She said huskily as his eyes unfocused and closed. He smiled sweetly, completely relaxing at her touch.

"What next, Frodo?" Her whisper was honey dripping from the cone.

His sapphire eyes slowly opened, and he no longer seemed nervous about this. "He kissed me again. He brushed his lips back and forth across mine." She did so, and he groaned softly and sucked on her bottom lip. "Next, he started to kiss my neck," He whispered huskily against her lips.

Heat building within her, Pearl did so. "Was he gentle or firm when he did it?" She questioned breathlessly.

Frodo was having a difficult time concentrating, for Pearl had moved her other hand down to caress his chest and nipples...adding her own unique touch to the game. "I...I think it was both," He slurred breathlessly. She grinned, having no idea what that was supposed to mean. He arched his neck in pleasure as she improvised by sucking and nibbling, then licking the spots afterwards.

"What else did he do to you, Frodo?" She rasped, her hot breath tickling the nape of his neck. His blue eyes opened at that moment as the memory came to him, and his entire body flushed so pink that it looked as though he had lain in the sun naked and gotten burned from it. Pearl chuckled; imagining it must have been something...intense. "Tell me," She murmured, biting his earlobe and tweaking his nipples. She looked down and saw that his stiff penis was becoming wet on the pink flesh of the crown. She grit her teeth. Too much more of this, and she was going to lose patience and mount him.

Breathing raggedly from almost painful arousal, he whimpered and shifted. "What did he do, Frodo?" Pearl whispered insistently. He closed his eyes and licked his lips, and she caught his tongue with her mouth and sucked on it. He strained against his bonds and pushed the warm muscle in and out of her mouth. Sweat beaded his flushed body and he moaned.

"He...put his fingers into me," Frodo finally managed to pant. The thought of Pearl doing that to him...finding that spot...it made him dizzy. Surely, she wouldn't know about that? Looking at the excited gleam in her eyes, he groaned. She DID know about that...he wasn't going to survive this night.

Of course, Pearl knew about the gland. She had a pretty good idea of how Samwise knew about it, too. She was the one who told Rosie about it and described how to find it. "Mmmm...you know, I've wanted to do that to you for a long time, Master Baggins," She purred, kissing his chest. "I wasn't sure if it would frighten you or not, so I never did. Now that I know you like it, however..." She trailed off, grinning.

His lips trembled, and his hips lifted unconsciously. "Pearl...I think I shall die, if you do that to me...I could barely handle it before..." She ignored him, already reaching for a jar that he guessed contained a new batch of jelly. He licked his lips again, closing his eyes. Somehow, he knew how Sam had learned to do that...he could tell by the carnal, wicked glint in his Kitten's eyes. At least he had an idea of what she and Rosie often whispered and giggled about, now. Women...such dangerous creatures!!

He involuntarily flinched as she prepared him with the jelly, and his breath caught sharply as her finger slid in and found the spot, before he could even register the discomfort of the intrusion. His eyes snapped open, wild and bright with shock as she immediately began to push against the spot rhythmically. He couldn't believe how fast she had found it, nor how cleverly and firmly she stimulated it. "Unh!" He grunted, tensing up all over. Her other hand went, not to his aching member, but to the swollen scrotum beneath.

"Good lad," She quavered, feeling herself getting ready to orgasm. She kissed his lips tenderly and soothingly. One hand applied small, tingling squeezes to his testicles, while the fingers of the other continued to give quick, firm pushes to the sensitive gland inside of him.

Frodo thrashed mindlessly, his hips moving from side to side, his dark hair falling across his eyes. He didn't know what to do with himself, and he struggled to be free of the restraints she had put him in. "I'm....going to wake up....S-Sammy," He warned hoarsely as he felt a scream building in his throat.

Pearl covered his mouth with hers to muffle his loud cries. Her beautiful gentlehobbit reacted quite strongly to this. A bit smugly, she thought * I'll bet Samwise didn't do it as well as I do. * She took pity on her poor, panting lover and moved her hand from his scrotum to his penis. The lovely organ was so flushed and swollen that it must have been painful. She gripped it in her hand and stroked up and down, keeping Frodo's mouth covered with hers. She was glad she had him tied down, suddenly, because a growl surfaced in his throat, and she wasn't sure what might have happened if he could have moved. She stroked his tongue with hers and purred happily when his back arched and his manhood pulsed in he hand.

She withdrew her fingers from within him as he orgasmed, and she didn't remove her lips from his until he was finished, due to the volume of the helpless groans he emitted. She ignored the warm, sticky wetness coating her hand and arm. She continued to fondle his spent penis as he gasped and trembled. She kissed his heaving chest, then looked into his brilliant, vague eyes. "Are you alright, darling?" She whispered.

It took him a long time to catch his breath enough to answer. "I think...you should keep me...restrained in the future, if you...intend to do that...again," He rasped. He smiled at her, but she could see the seriousness in his pretty gaze, and she shivered.

The good news was, she had found his weak spots. The bad news was, playing with them might get her into trouble. A grin spread over her shapely lips. "I suppose I should untie you now," She said reluctantly, her fingers still curled around his softening member.

Frodo smiled. "I certainly hope that you do, Kitten. I believe we both could use a bath." He pointedly looked the drying fluid that was all over her hand and his belly. His climax had been quite violent, and there was an impressive amount of it.

"Oh...yes...I see what you mean," Pearl said with a grin.

Frodo shook his head and sighed. "My dear, as heavenly as that experience was, I truly doubt that I can withstand it on a regular basis. It was...almost painfully intense!"

Pearl kissed him lovingly. "Don't worry, Frodo. I think my itch has been scratched, for now."

-To be continued

~***************~

"Cloudburst"

Part 16

Frodo tried to ignore the shrewd, knowing grins that both Merry and Pippin gave him as he moved a bit stiffly into the kitchen the next morning. "Sleep well?" Pippin said impishly, and then he and Merry snickered.

"Do stop teasing me, you two," Frodo said as his face flamed, "It's not as though you do not both conduct the same activities on a regular basis!"

Merry coughed. "True, cousin Frodo, but we aren't nearly as loud as you were. For a moment, I feared that Sauron had broken into your room and was torturing you."

Pippin hiccuped with laughter and clapped Merry on the back to congratulate him on the jest.

"Shhh! Would you two please keep it down?!" Frodo hissed. The rest of the household was still asleep, and he abhorred the thought of this kind of talk waking them up. "What if Sammy should hear you? What would he think of his parents then, eh?"

Chagrined, the two quieted down, though they still snickered behind their hands. Frodo shook his head and began heating some water for tea. Merry and Pippin stumbled out of the kitchen, shushing each other as they tried to keep their laughter down. They had both noticed the light pink chafe marks on Frodo's wrists and ankles, which gave them a clear idea of at least some of their cousin's nocturnal activities. "I guess Pearl wanted to make sure he couldn't get away this time," Reflected Pippin. He hadn't really meant it as a joke...he truly felt that his sister's possessive hunger for Frodo stemmed from a hidden fear that he would leave, again. The young Took knew Pearl well, and something told him that she was trying to establish ownership of her husband to be.

Merry burst into laughter at his comment, and he grinned as well, realizing how it sounded. "It does give me some ideas," Merry said with a leer at Peregrin. Pippin blushed and lowered his eyes.

"Good morning, you two," Pearl said, interrupting them as she came out of the hallway. "What gives you some ideas, Merry?" She yawned and stretched as the Brandybuck bit his lip.

"What you did to Frodo gave him ideas," Pippin burst out, before Merry could shush him.

Pearl fixed the Brandybuck with a level stare, and he cleared his throat and blushed. "Meriadoc Brandybuck, if you do that to my baby brother, I swear I'll have your head!" She said. She clearly wasn't the least bit ashamed to admit she had tied Frodo up to the bed.

Pippin snorted with laughter, and Merry coughed and tried to change the subject. "I received a return letter from Aragorn. He and Arwen will be here for the party." He whispered.

Pearl cast a quick look towards the kitchen where she heard Frodo humming. She leaned in closer to her brother and cousin. "What about Legolas and Gimli? Any word from them?"

Pippin shook his head. "Nothing so far. The runners might not be able to find them in time...they've been travelling abroad all over the place, lately."

It was on the tip of Merry's tongue to tell Pippin that "abroad" meant "all over the place", but his lover had begun to get peeved at him correcting his grammar lately, so he kept his mouth shut. He simply grinned at the cuteness of Pippin describing Legolas and Gimli's evasiveness twice in one sentence. Pearl didn't notice it, for she was almost as bad as her brother was with word definitions.

"That's too bad," She whispered, "I'd love to see Frodo's face if those two show up. He adores them."

Merry patted her shoulder. "Don't worry, Pearl. I'm sure they'll get the news in time...one way or the other. Aragorn says in his letter that he has sent runners out as well."

"What are you three whispering about?" Frodo's voice startled them, and they looked as guilty as tweens caught playing "Spin the Bottle". His brows hedged over his sapphire eyes, but his lips quirked into a smile. "Alright, I think that has been just about enough jokes at my expense for today. Who wants to help me make breakfast?"

Pearl embraced him, kissing him lingeringly. "Help you? Oh, no you don't. The only thing that you're going to do in there is make the tea. I haven't forgotten that 'Oatmeal' you made for me the other day!"

Frodo grinned bashfully. "Was it really so horrible?"

Pearl kissed his nose. "I'm sorry, my pretty gentlehobbit, but your talents don't lie in the kitchen. You leave that up to me."

He chuckled and nuzzled her neck, then stared at Merry and Pippin. "What? Don't you two have something better to do?" They both looked around aimlessly and shrugged. Frodo shook his head and rolled his eyes. It was a bit annoying, the way those two always stopped what they were doing every time he and Pearl showed affection in front of them. He wondered if they would ever stop gushing proudly over it!

With a final, deep kiss, Pearl patted Frodo's backside and went into the kitchen. Merry chuckled. "She's keeping you on a short leash, old chap," He remarked, once she was out of earshot.

Frodo merely smiled. He didn't seem to mind a bit.

~**********~

Rose woke up and went into the kitchen to help Pearl finish cooking breakfast. "Your lad made a bit of noise, last night," She commented dryly as she put some bacon on the skillet.

"Sammy woke up? Why didn't you come and get me?"

Rosie chuckled. "Not little Samwise, dear. I meant the grown lad. Have you forgotten that our bedroom is right beside yours?"

Pearl grinned and gave her friend a playful swat. "Sorry about that. I didn't know he would be so...vocal."

"You used the linen strips, then?" Whispered Rose, her cheeks turning red and her grey eyes widening.

Pearl gave her a wicked look, and the other woman laughed and clapped her hands in delight. "Oh, you are so inventive! I wish I had your imagination and...and lack of inhibitations. I was so nervous the first time I tried that...thing that you told me about. My poor Samwise thought I was mad when I started to do it. I don't know if I could tie him up, too."

Pearl smirked. "Have a couple of drinks before hand, if it makes you nervous. I suggest you try it. It's delicious fun!"

They burst into giggles, but their mirth was cut short when little Elanor came paddling into the kitchen. "Mama, Frodo is crying," The little girl reported, looking up through tangled golden curls.

"Alright, Sweatpea. I'll go and get him," Rose said, with an apologetic look for Pearl.

"Don't worry, I can handle this," Pearl assured her.

Rose didn't get halfway down the hall before Samwise came out, carrying their infant son. "I've got him, me dear," He said, giving her a soft kiss good morning. He bounced the whimpering baby gently in his arms. "I think he's hungry, is all." He relinquished his son to Rosie so that she could feed him.

"Thank you, beloved. Why don't you go into the lounge with Frodo and the others? Take Elanor with you."

Sam did as she requested, and Rosie seated herself at the table and began to feed her son. "What is the word on the party?" She asked Pearl.

"Everything is going as planned, except we can't seem to locate Legolas and Gimli. I hope we can get word to them in time."

Rosie grimaced. "I still say Frodo won't be too comfortable with a Welcome Home party. He's such a shy lad."

Pearl shrugged. "He'll get over it. You know how the Shirefolk are, Rosie. They would have thrown one for him anyways, if we hadn't come up with the idea. He might take more kindly to it if he knows it was our doing, especially if he can be reunited with old friends."

Rosie nodded, seeing the logic behind it. "Since you put it that way, it doesn't sound like a bad idea at all. When are you two going to have your wedding?"

Pearl thought on it for a moment. "A date hasn't been decided yet, but I'm partial to May, when the flowers are blooming."

"That sounds lovely. Sam and I got married on May 1^{st. It truly is a beautiful time of the year. Seems like a bit of a wait, though...considering how long it finally took the two of you to make the commitment!"}

Pearl laughed. "Rosie, it's March now! I don't think that two months is too long to wait...especially considering the preparations we need to make for it."

Rose sighed. "I know...I know. I'm just eager to see the two of you properly wed, is all."

~******~

"Sam, you're up late today," Frodo commented to his friend as they stepped outside for some fresh air. "I'm used to hearing you banging around in the burrow before the sun has even risen."

Samwise yawned. "Well, I didn't sleep well last night, Mr. Frodo. Someone was making too much noise in the next room, if you take my meaning." His brown eyes twinkled with amusement as he looked at his friend. He watched the color drain from Frodo's face, and he wondered what he said that was so bad. Did Frodo think he begrudged him the right to make love with his own fianc'?

Frodo swallowed and shifted his bashful gaze to Sam. "What did you hear?" He said tentatively.

Sam smiled. "Oh, nothin? more than some moans and groans. She must have gone over you pretty good, Sir."

Frodo's breath left his body in a relieved sigh, and Sam gave him a puzzled frown as color returned to his cheeks...too much color. "Yes...she was quite...thorough," Frodo said, avoiding Sam's gaze shyly. He would have died, then and there, if Sam had heard any part of the conversation that he and Pearl had while making love. He wasn't sure what the gardener would have thought of the two of them "re-living" the night that he and Frodo had made love.

Sam was likewise uncomfortable. He wasn't happy with the way he had become aroused by listening to Frodo's cries of pleasure. He darned near didn't get to sleep at all, and long after Rosie had fallen asleep and the gasps and moans had ceased, he still had images of the night he had shared with his beloved master going through his head. It seemed that his sweet Rose was right...eventually, he wasn't going to be able to stay away.

He glanced at the ring bearer and chuckled. "Just like a lass," He said, tweaking Frodo's blushing cheek. Frodo swatted at his hand and blushed further, and Sam felt a little better. Poking fun at his friend lightened the mood, somewhat.

-To be continued

~***********~

"Cloudburst"

Part 17

"Is everything in place?" Whispered Pearl.

"Yes, and I told them at the gate to let them through. It took a little convincing to make them understand that they aren't a threat." Merry whispered back.

Frodo shook his head, trying to make sense of what they were saying. The whispered conversation had him confused. Shrugging, he decided that spying on them was no way to behave. He'd find out what they were up to sooner or later. Pearl had kept him...busy...all day long. She wasn't even going to let him leave the bedroom, until he had complained that his bladder was going to explode if he did not visit the privy. The rest of the household had been coming and going all day long. Sammy and Elanor were playing with Pippin outside, and Rosie had been doing an awful lot of baking, today.

The ring bearer came out of the hallway, and Merry shushed Pearl quickly upon seeing him. "Nice to see you this evening, cousin!" Merry said with a wink.

Frodo blushed. Ever since that night that Pearl had tied him up and...found that spot, she frequently used the technique during their lovemaking. She hadn't tied him up since then, but several times today, she had ruthlessly stimulated him while they made love. The effect alternated between total helplessness and aggressive arousal. He was quite certain his cries could be heard throughout the house, and he was thankful that Sammy was gone the entire day. Clearing his throat self consciously, Frodo said, "Is there anything to eat? I am famished."

Pearl approached him and put her arms around his waist, kissing the hollow of his throat. "My poor gentlehobbit. I've neglected you," She purred. Her teeth nibbled the skin of his neck, and he nearly swore aloud as he hardened yet again.

"You are going to drain me dry, Kitten," He whispered into her ear, only half joking.

She chuckled softly and ran her fingers up and down his spine, making him shiver.

"Will you two please cool down, or go back to the bedroom?" Merry said, rolling his eyes heavenward. He adored seeing them so complete, but enough was enough!

Frodo smiled sheepishly and reluctantly backed out of Pearl's embrace. "My apologies, Meriadoc."

Pearl squinted her eyes and looked at the clock on the mantle. Her eyes opened wide. "Uh-oh. We'd better get cleaned up and changed, Frodo." She said.

He tilted his head to the side, puzzled. "Why the sudden hurry?"

She shared a look with Merry, and Frodo smirked. Definitely up to something, those two. "Er...well, I suppose I should be honest with you. We've got a surprise for you, waiting in the field outside."

Frodo frowned at the grins that his fianc? and cousin exchanged. So, that was the reason all of the blinds were closed on the house. When he had tried to open them, Pearl smacked his bottom and dragged him into the bedroom. Whatever the surprise was, if he had looked outside from the foyer or kitchen windows, he might have been able to see it. He scratched his head as he remembered that the field south of Bag End was exactly where Bilbo had thrown his one-hundred-eleventh birthday.

Pearl squirmed uncomfortably as the ring bearer narrowed his blue eyes at her. "Oh, just get cleaned up and dressed, my pretty lad. I promise it isn't anything bad!" He smiled at her and quietly did as she said, but he couldn't help but feel suddenly nervous.

~************~

"Everybody quiet!" Hollered Samwise to the assembled mass of hobbits. "They're going to be bringing Mr. Frodo out very soon!" Hearing the name Frodo, the tiniest Gamgee let out a gurgling coo, thinking his Father referred to him. There were scattered chuckles as Rosie tried to quiet the child.

The noise slowly died from a murmur to nothing more than a cough or the occasional whisper, and Sam turned around and watched the path expectantly, waving to two tall figures to come stand next to him. Sammy and Elanor shifted from foot to foot, anxious for the party to get underway. They grinned at each other when they saw Frodo heading down the path, guided by Pearl and Merry. The ring bearer was blindfolded.

Frodo already knew that there was a party of some kind...he had put the pieces together. "I'm really not comfortable, being blind like this," He complained as they guided him.

Pippin fell into step beside Merry. "Don't worry, Frodo...it's worth the blindfold!" The Took said cheerfully. Frodo sighed in defeat.

When they stopped and removed his blindfold, he wasn't surprised to see the huge banner saying, "Welcome home, Frodo Baggins", nor all of the celebrants. However, he did not have to feign surprise, for standing next to Samwise was Aragorn and the lady Arwen. Frodo's sapphire eyes went round and lit up with undisguised joy. "S-Strider?" He stammered, reverting to the name he first met the King under.

Aragorn's grey eyes were warm as he knelt before the ring bearer and bowed his head respectfully. "Welcome back, my brave little friend." He said with a smile.

"Welcome home, Frodo Baggins!" A collective cheer went up, and mugs were raised.

In his excitement, little Sammy forgot what the occasion was all about. "Happy Birthday, Papa!" The lad turned bright red as laughter ensued in response to his mistake.

Frodo laughed and threw his arms around Aragorn. "It's so wonderful to see you again!" The ring bearer exclaimed, "You look good!" He was a bit surprised by the clean-shaven, well-groomed version of his old friend and protector.

Aragorn returned the embrace and chuckled. "So, do I now feel fair and look fair, as well?"

Frodo blushed at the reference to the statement he had made, so long ago upon seeing the ranger. He turned to Arwen and impulsively hugged her around the waist, forgetting his manners in his exuberance. Her long, raven locks tickled his nose and she laughed. The laughter sounded like bells. Embarrassed at his boldness, Frodo stepped back and stammered, "Oh, I beg your pardon, lady Arwen. W-welcome to the Shire. Please, have a seat."

The elvish beauty smiled adoringly at the blushing hobbit's attempt at belated formality. "There is no need for that, little ring bearer. We are all here to enjoy the celebration, are we not?" Frodo nodded, but he bowed to her in a courtly manner, just the same.

Pearl bit her lip, feeling suddenly squat and clumsy next to the ravishing, delicate loveliness of Arwen. No wonder half the Shire was staring at her! Frodo put his arms around Pearl and kissed her soundly, making her forget her envy at the tall elfmaid's beauty. As long as her gentlehobbit found her attractive, she had no cause to be jealous.

"We've got a special table for you, Frodo." Said Merry, gently tugging at the ring bearer's arm. "It's a bit high off the ground, for our taller guest's comfort, but we've arranged the hobbit seats to fit as well."

Frodo followed the others to a very large, long table in the center of the party, where he could see that the hobbit-sized chairs were tall enough to reach the high table, yet had little stepping stools at the base of them, to make it easy for the small folk to get into them. Sammy ran up to Frodo, and the ring bearer lifted his son into his arms and nuzzled his soft, honey curls. Aragorn smiled down at them, still a bit surprised to have learned that Frodo had a child. The ring bearer still looked like a tweenager, despite the streak of silver in his hair.

"Your little one favors you, Frodo." Said the King.

Frodo smiled. "Yes, he does in the face and eyes, but the hair and dimples come from his lovely mother." He gave Pearl a fond look, and she flushed in pleasure and lowered her eyes. Leave it to Frodo to make her feel like a tween!

Sammy looked up at Arwen as his father carried him to the table of honor. The little hobbit blinked owlishly at the woman, for he had never seen an elf in person before. "You are beautiful!" The child said.

Arwen laughed in delight and stroked his soft curls. "Thank you, little one. You are quite the handsome young fellow, yourself."

Elanor shocked everyone by saying, "Sammy is going to be my husband, some day!"

Sam and Rose blushed as the company chuckled.

Frodo became a bit uncomfortable as they drew closer to the table and he could see who the hobbits were that were already sitting there. Pearl's family and Merry's parents. Eglantine gave the ring bearer a probing gaze as he seated himself beside Aragorn. "So, when are you finally going to make an honest woman of my daughter, Mr. Baggins?" She said in a less-than-friendly tone.

"We've decided on May 1st, Mrs. Took." Frodo said respectfully, shaking hands with Paladin.

Esmeralda gave her sister in law an annoyed look and snapped, "Let them enjoy the night, Eglantine. You don't have to spoil everything!"

Paladin and Saradoc remained uncomfortably quiet as the two women glared at one another. This happened all the time. Eglantine would open her big mouth and say something rude, and Esmeralda would fearlessly tell her to stuff it. It was clear that Pearl inherited her bluntness from her aunt. Pearl pursed her lips and excused herself to gather mugs of ale for everyone. "Now, ladies," Said Saradoc nervously as the women began to trade quiet insults. Paladin simply shook his head. His wife and his sister were not going to be finished arguing until they felt like it.

It was Aragorn who broke the fight. "Ladies, I do understand your desire for everything to be perfect for Frodo and Pearl, but you won't accomplish it by fighting. Can you not be adult about this and have a toast to their health and happiness? Would that not be more productive?"

If it were anyone else, Frodo thought both women might have jumped down their throat, but Eglantine and Esmeralda blushed at the handsome, noble Man and apologized to each other instantly. Frodo shared a bewildered look with Merry and Pippin, than coughed to cover up a laugh. He leaned over and whispered, "If only you could be here every time those two start! Thank you, Strider."

The King gave Frodo a crooked smile. "I've got some experience, dealing with difficult in-laws." He said in his quiet voice.

Hearing this, Arwen gave him a mock glare. "I shall remember that remark, my lord."

Aragorn cringed, making Frodo laugh.

Pearl returned with mugs of ale for everyone, and she blushed at Arwen. "I'm afraid the wine hasn't been brought out yet, my lady...will this be alright, or would you prefer a brandy or a glass of water?" She wasn't comfortable being so formal, it was obvious.

Arwen smiled gently and took the mug offered to her. "Nay, lovely hobbit. I actually quite enjoy Ale, thanks to Legolas introducing it to me."

Aragorn cleared his throat. "I'll never forgive him," He remarked, prompting laughter from the hobbits.

Pearl flushed in pleasure and gave a clumsy curtsy to the elfmaid, before seating herself by Frodo's side. she noticed that Frodo looked at the other two empty seats with a hint of disappointment. One was just a bit larger than the hobbit chairs, yet smaller than the chairs designed for the big folk. It was clear who was meant to be sitting there. Pearl gave a look to Pippin, nodding her head towards the empty seats, and her brother shrugged and frowned. She sighed, reckoning Legolas and Gimli weren't going to make it, after all.

Once everyone was settled in, Frodo stepped shyly onto the podium to give a speech. Everyone quieted as the ring bearer took a deep breath. "This is amazing. Truly, I do not deserve such a gift," Scattered applause and cheers forced him to pause. When things quieted again, he looked at the table where his family and friends sat. "I shall never forget this kind gesture. You all mean so much to me..."

His speech was interrupted as a gruff voice shouted, "Arrgh! You started the party without my Ale!"

Frodo's heart leapt, and he raised his blue eyes to see Gimli pulling a wagon full of barrels. Legolas pushed from behind, and several hobbits cheered in delight. "Gimli! Legolas!" The ring bearer shouted, and he jumped down from the podium and ran to his friends. Gimli let go of the handles on the wagon to scoop Frodo into a hearty embrace.

"Good to have you back, lad! You'd better not go running off again!" the dwarf said.

Legolas' smile took to his pointed ears as he came around from the back of the wagon and knelt down to hug both Gimli and Frodo. "It gladdens my heart to see you so healthy again, Master Baggins," The elf said softly. Frodo squeezed harder in response.

"You two couldn't have come at a better time," Frodo whispered. "I could not think of anything else to say in my speech." Gimli grinned widely, and Legolas smirked.

"Well lad, it's your party...help us pass out some of the good drink!" Said Gimli as he patted one of the barrels of dwarven ale lovingly.

Legolas was about to comment on how cruel and wicked Gimli was to subject the innocent hobbits to the strong brew, but he spotted Aragorn at the table and ran to greet him. Aragorn stood up as the familiar figure approached. For a moment, the two simply smiled gravely at one another, and then Aragorn said something in Elvish that made Arwen blush and caused Legolas to burst into laughter. The hobbits looked at each other in puzzlement as the two old friends embraced. "What did King Aragorn say?" Whispered Rose to Sam. She knew that her husband had learned a few words from Frodo.

Sam was blushing. "I don't think I should repeat it, if it's what I think."

As Rosie stared at her husband in bemusement, the band began to play and dancing commenced. Sighing, she shifted little Frodo carefully and lifted her mug to her lips. Her father came up beside her and smiled. "Why don't you dance with your husband, Rosie? I'll take care of Frodo for you."

She thanked him and handed the baby to him, then grabbed Samwise's hand and pulled him onto the field for a dance. "You're a mite bit eager tonight," He teased, grinning. She smiled up at him adoringly, her cheeks flushed. She wished she had Pearl's strength of mind...her husband looked so handsome in the light of the sunset. She felt herself getting aroused as he twirled her around and smiled at her.

As the night wore on, Frodo was asked to dance by so many hobbit lasses that he gave Pearl a pleading look, but she merely laughed and gave each and every one of them her consent to dance with him. The strong, dwarven brew was affecting everyone, making an already merry festival even merrier. Even Eglantine laughed and carried on with Esmeralda, forgetting that she was supposed to hate her sister in law. Aragorn drank his brew with quiet dignity, endeavoring not to allow himself to become too tipsy. Strangely enough, both Arwen and Legolas lacked restraint the most, and the two elves were joking with Merry and Pippin and dancing with the rest of the partygoers.

Gimli chose to drink the whiskey that Hamfast Gamgee brought to the party, as he hadn't had it in a long time. He convinced a reluctant Samwise to have a few shots with him, and before long, he had the gardener rolling with laughter and slurring incoherently. Rosie looked on with a fond smile. She would simply have to share her husband tonight...at least until they went home. She chuckled as she found her daughter twirling around on the field with Sammy. The two drew adoring sighs and chuckles from the onlookers, and Sammy was as light on his feet as his father. Frodo himself was passed from one dance partner to the next, though he continuously tried to make his way to Pearl.

Later on in the night, things could have gone badly, for Merry and Pippin forgot in their drunken state, that they were supposed to be discrete. Merry grabbed Pippin as their favorite song came on, and he led the younger hobbit into the field for a dance. Mouths dropped open at the sight of two males dancing together, and Frodo covered his eyes and groaned. This was it...their secret was going to be out for certain now.

At the table, the lover's parents looked from each other to the two dancing hobbits, then back again. Not a one of them could think of anything to say. Finally, Paladin cleared his throat and looked at Saradoc. For a moment, it was if they were silently communicating. * Can't let our boys be ridiculed. * Then they shrugged and grinned. "Care for a dance?" Said Paladin.

"I'll lead," replied Saradoc, and the two put their arms around each other and skipped out to where their sons danced.

"Oh...my..." Said Eglantine faintly, fanning herself in shock.

"Pooh, can't let them have all the fun," laughed Esmeralda, and she grabbed her sister in law by the arm and practically dragged her onto the field to join their husbands and sons.

Aragorn ungracefully spit his ale out as he saw other hobbits look at each other, shrug and team up in same gender pairs. The King looked down at the mug in his hands, then spilled the rest of his brew onto the grass. He would keep to hobbit ale for the rest of the night, he decided.

"Come on, Rosie!" Pearl giggled, and before her friend could protest, she pulled on her hand and led her onto the dancing area. Before long, the entire area was filled with odd couples, and laughter rang in the air.

Sam watched it all with a smile, feeling too shy to ask Frodo for a dance, even after all he had been through with the ring bearer. Instead, Frodo and Gimli made an unlikely pair, and the ring bearer yelped in pain as the dwarf's heavy foot trod on his toe. Sam swallowed another shot of whiskey, his eyes shooting back and forth between his wife and his master. The poor gardener couldn't decide which was more beautiful, and he poured another shot of whiskey for himself...hoping he could drink his way out of the confusion he felt. He finally decided to go off on his own, somewhere private. He needed to sort things out. Merry and Pippin finally excused themselves and staggered home to Brandy Hall. If they stayed any longer, they realized, they might make an even bigger mistake and kiss in front of everyone. They gave their fathers a thankful look before heading home.

The festivities continued on through the night, and Aragorn and Arwen regretfully said their goodnights to everyone. "We've a long road ahead of us, tomorrow," explained the King to Frodo. "We are to visit Rivendell and visit Elrond."

"I understand, Aragorn. I wish the two of you could stay longer," Frodo replied, trying to fight the tears that threatened to surface. It had been so long since he had seen the noble ranger!

Forgetting formality in the face of emotions, Aragorn went down to one knee before Frodo and took him into his arms for a long hug. "May your life be filled with love and light, Frodo Baggins," The King of Gondor whispered. He hid the lump that was welling up in his own throat quite well, he thought.

Sammy gazed up at Arwen with wide, blue eyes. "You will come and visit again, won't you?" the child asked shyly, his cheeks pinkening.

She knelt down and placed a kiss on his forehead. "I would like that very much, little Samwise Baggins. You do your Mother and Father much honor, with your grace."

The seriousness of the moment was broken when she stumbled as she tried to rise. Aragorn steadied her, and she chuckled. "'Twould seem that I've over indulged myself this evening," She said.

Aragorn smiled and brought her hand to his lips. "Let us see you to bed, beloved."

Frodo watched the couple make their way to the Green Dragon inn, and he felt a tightness in his chest. For some reason, he feared that he might never see the ranger again. Beside him, Sammy yawned, and Elanor repeated the action. The ring bearer wiped his eyes and smiled down at the children. "I think that somebody is ready for bed," He said.

Both of them stood at attention and tried to convince Frodo that they weren't a bit sleepy. When they both fought another yawn, Frodo clicked his tongue. "Now now, you two. You're almost asleep on your feet! I should take you inside and put you to bed."

Rose interrupted him. "Don't trouble yourself, Mr. Frodo. I'm on my way to put little Frodo to bed, so they might as well come with me. You just enjoy your party."

He thanked her, but truthfully, he wanted to go home as well. Legolas still danced with several hobbits, but Gimli had retired to Bag End for the night, under Sam and Rosie's insistence that he and Legolas stay as guests. He looked around, wondering where Samwise had gotten off to. The gardener was fairly intoxicated, the last time he saw him, and Frodo began to worry.

Frodo seated himself at the table, which was now empty of people. Pearl came sauntering over with two full mugs of ale in her hand. "Here you are, darling lad," she said as she set one of them in front of him. He grinned, looking at the mug that he had yet to finish.

"Dearest, I am only halfway through my first pint. You have to give me some time to breathe!" He chuckled.

She sipped her own brew and brushed his curls away from his pointed ear so that she could nibble on the lobe. Frodo shivered in pleasure...his ears were one of his weakest spots. "I'm trying to get you drunk so that I can take advantage of you, my pretty lad," She whispered.

He turned his blue eyes to her and lifted his eyebrows. "You hardly need me drunk to take advantage of me, Kitten." She leaned forward and kissed his lips, running her tongue along them before pulling away.

"I might have to tie you up again tonight, Mr. Baggins." She said with a suggestive leer.

Frodo choked on his drink and turned bright red, looking around to see if anyone nearby heard his fianc'?s outrageous statement. Pearl giggled and kissed his cheek. "You're so adorable when you blush," She said, squeezing his knee beneath the table.

He caught his breath and finished off his ale, then reached for the fresh one she had brought for him. "Pearl, dear...you are making me...you know!"

She nibbled his sensitive earlobe, making him shiver. "I certainly hope so, my pretty lad."

He almost forgot that they were in public, then and there. His blue eyes were dark with lust as he looked at her, and he nearly pulled her to him for a deep kiss. Gasping, he took another swallow of ale. "I think I should take a walk...to clear my head," He said thickly, rising carefully from his seat and trying to conceal the evidence of his arousal.

Pearl's jade eyes went to his crotch, and she smiled. "Vixen," He said with a scowl. She laughed.

"Don't be gone too long, Mr. Baggins. As soon as things die down, I intend to take care of your...ahem...discomfort."

-To be continued

~***********~

"Cloudburst"

Part 18

"I thought that you went to bed for the evening, Rosie," said Pearl as her friend crossed the field and came to the table. She noticed that Rose looked a bit worried.

"I've put the little ones to bed, but Sam wandered off earlier, and I can't find him." Rose explained, her eyes searching the crowd for her husband. "He was in his cups a bit. I'm hoping that he's just passed out somewhere. I'm hoping he's not by the water..." She trailed off, and Pearl understood. She was worried that Samwise would fall into the water and drown, in his tipsy state.

"I haven't seen him, but maybe Frodo has. He went for a walk a moment ago. Come with me to look for him, alright?" Rose nodded, and Pearl led her in the direction she had seen Frodo going. She had a feeling that he might have gone to the old treehouse, hidden in the forest, and she picked her direction and located the concealed path to it without much difficulty. What the two women found when they reached the clearing does not bear repeating here, but it certainly gave them some things to think about. Once it was safe for them to move again without being discovered, they made their way back to Bag End.

"Pearl...I can't believe we did that! Spying on them like that...it was...well, it was-" Rosie sputtered.

"Arousing'" Pearl finished for her, with a grin. Rosie blushed deeply enough to rival Frodo! "Try and relax, Rosie. I think we both knew that another encounter between our lads was bound to happen sooner or later. You said it yourself. I'm just glad you didn't burst into the clearing and break it up!"

They entered the burrow and dropped their voices to whispers, so that they would not wake anyone up. "I know that, Pearl. It's just that...I'm still not sure how to deal with it. I saw what you meant...it's clearly not just a sexual thing between my Samwise and your Frodo. I just...oh, I don't know." She plopped down on a chair in the lounge room, completely ignoring the passed out from of Gimli, on the floor.

"I know it's a lot to take, Rosie," Pearl whispered, "Especially since watching it made us both...ahem...excited, but the best I can say is that you shouldn't think about it for now. When Sam gets home, just take him to bed and distract yourself, for a while." She grinned as Rose blushed again.

"I wish I was as carefree as you are, dear Pearl." Said Rose as she chewed her nails.

Pearl chuckled. "No, you don't. My quirkiness has gotten me into more trouble than you could shake a spoon at, and I'm sure there's more to come."

Rosie finally smiled, and Pearl hugged her briefly. "I'm going to bed to wait for my pretty lad. Don't think too much, luv." The Took said, and then she retired to her bedroom.

It wasn't long before Frodo opened the door and stepped into the foyer. Rosie stayed where she was and watched him come in, noting the raspberry colored mark on the side of his neck. "Hello, Rose. Have you seen Pearl?" He questioned politely. His color was high, and she smirked.

*That's right, Mr. Baggins. You should blush, after what you did. * Aloud, she said, "She came home a few moments ago. She's waiting for you in the bedroom." A wicked impulse caused her to ask, "Have you seen my husband, Mr. Baggins? He vanished during the commotion that Merry and Pippin caused, and I haven't seen him since."

Frodo's blush predictably deepened, and he lowered his bright eyes. "Yes, I found him at the abandoned treehouse that we used to play in as children. He was fairly...intoxicated. If you wish, I shall go and retrieve him for you."

She tilted her head. Frodo genuinely seemed to feel guilty about the whole thing. His coat was missing, and she remembered him tenderly covering her husband's form with it to keep the chill away from Samwise after he had passed out. Her expression softened. She could not fault Mr. Baggins for loving her husband, nor could she fault Samwise for loving Frodo. "There's no need for that, lad. Let him sleep it off. Go to your Pearl...she's waiting for you."

He stared at her for a moment, and it seemed that he read the truth in her eyes. He nodded slowly and elegantly. "Thank you, dear Rose," He whispered, and then he went to the bedroom he shared with his fiance.

Frodo stopped at the door of the bedroom that Sammy and Elanor shared. It was open a crack, and he could hear the children whispering. Smiling, he pondered if he should get onto them for staying up past their bedtime. He decided to listen, instead.

"You should tell your Mama and Papa about those nightmares, Sammy," Little Elanor was whispering, "Maybe they can help."

Frodo frowned. Nightmares? What was all this?

"I don't want to scare them, Ellie. You know how Mama is about them, ever since I saw that monster that was after Papa. She thinks everytime I see a vision, I'm going to have a fit again."

Elanor said, "But didn't you say you saw him last night? Peeking out of the closet? That's not a normal nightmare, Sammy! I'm scared!"

Alarm at the children's words made the protective urges rise in the ring bearer. Nightmare or not, he didn't want his son to live in fear. He opened the door and came into the bedroom, and the children shushed and yanked the bedsheets up to their chins. Frodo grinned as they both attempted to act like they were asleep. Elanor even gave a very realistic sounding snore. Frodo approached Sammy's bed and sat on the edge of it. "I heard what the two of you were saying, lad. You may as well tell me what these nightmares are all about." He murmured.

Sammy rolled over and looked up at his father, biting his lip just as Frodo did when debating something. "They're just nightmares, Papa. I...I woke up last night from one of them and thought I saw one of the...er...goblins from it, hiding in the closet. I was just tired."

Elanor shook her head, and Frodo flashed a quick look at her, then back to Sammy. "Somehow, I don't think that's the entire truth, Sammy." He said, narrowing his blue eyes suspiciously. "You wouldn't lie to your Father, would you?"

Sammy shook his head. "No, Papa...Elanor's just worried, because she's never had nightmares before. She thinks I'm cracked."

"Do not!" Elanor gasped indignantly. "I'm worried, is all!"

Frodo's lips twitched as he struggled not to laugh. Perhaps it was just the imagination of children, but he wanted to be certain. "Sammy, would you and Elanor like for me to check the closet for you?"

That got a response. Both children's eyes flicked fearfully towards the half-open closet door. "Y-you don't have to, Papa," Said Sammy.

Frodo sighed. "Yes, I believe I do have to, lad. I want the two of you to see that there's nothing at all to worry about in that closet. You need your sleep."

Sammy clutched his covers tighter as Frodo stood up and crossed the room. "Papa...don't!" The child pleaded. Frodo ignored him and lit the candle that was sitting on the table. He used a match to light the wick, then proceeded to the closet and pulled the door open wide. Sammy and Elanor both gulped and closed their eyes tightly.

"Aaah! Get it off! It's attacking me!" Yelled Frodo suddenly, and both children screamed. They opened their eyes to see Frodo on the floor with something small and furry at his throat.

Frodo looked up at the children and grinned, holding out Elanor's old teddy bear. "The only thing with eyes in this closet is Mr. Peppy, here." He chuckled.

Sammy groaned and lay back with a thud. "That was mean, Papa." But the child giggled, all the same.

"Umm...Mr. Frodo?" said Elanor.

"Yes love, what is it?"

"I...I wet myself."

Frodo winced. He didn't mean to scare the poor dear THAT badly! Before he got the chance to get up and go and get her mother, Pearl bounded into the room, followed by Rosie. "What's the matter? We heard the children scream!"

She stopped and frowned when she looked down to see Frodo on the floor, holding a stuffed bear. Putting her hands on her hips, she said, "Do I want to know?"

Frodo smiled sheepishly and struggled to his feet. "I was just having a bit of fun with the little ones. It seems they were frightened of a monster lurking in their closet, and I wanted to show them that there was nothing more ferocious than a little teddy bear within."

Rosie chuckled, "I think your cousins are rubbing off on you, Mr. Baggins."

"Mama, I wet myself," little Elanor said guilelessly.

Frodo winced again when Rosie's smile became a scowl in his direction. "Alright, darling. Let's get you cleaned up and changed into a fresh nightgown."

Taking his cue, Frodo planted a quick kiss on Sammy's cheek. "Think you can sleep without the fear of something lurking in the closet, now?" He whispered.

Sammy nodded. "That was funny, Papa. You're cracked."

Pearl burst into laughter and hugged her son. "That he is, Sammy. He's going to get a talking to, for playing such a dirty trick on you and Elanor."

Sammy giggled as Frodo pouted. "Goodnight, Papa. Good luck." He said, as his Mother led his Father from the room. Rosie lifted Elanor into her arms, heedless of the damp state of her gown, and took her out of the room to help her get cleaned up and changed. Sammy sighed and snuggled deeply into his bed, feeling much better.

The child had almost drifted off to sleep when he heard the rustling sound in the hallway. He cracked his blue eyes open and looked at the doorway, expecting to see one of his family walking passed the opening. His eyes widened and he caught his breath in fear as a long-fingered, withered hand with corpse pale flesh grasped the side of the door. "Mama...Papa?" Sammy said in a breathless whisper, unable to make his voice work from the terror that welled up within him. He could hear harsh breathing emitting from the creature at the threshold, and he clenched his teeth on a scream as an oversized head peered around the door and looked into the room. Lank, white hair hung sparsely on the skull of the being, and gigantic, reflective green eyes peered through the darkness and rested on the trembling hobbit child.

"You aren't real...you aren't real!" Sammy panted, shutting his eyes and willing the horrible creature to go away. Bile rose in his throat as he heard the sucking footsteps enter the bedroom hesitantly. "Go away!" Sammy rasped. There was a pause, and then a sudden scuttle. Sammy dared to open his eyes. The frightening creature was gone. He heard heavy footsteps moving down the hall towards his room, and when Gimli passed by the door, the child gave a sigh of relief. Even figments of the imagination were intimidated by the dwarf, it seemed.

-To be continued

~**************~

"Cloudburst"

Part 19

"What's the matter, Sammy? Didn't you sleep well?" Frodo's Sapphire gaze was gentle and concerned as he looked across the table at his son. The child kept dozing off as he ate breakfast, and there were dark smudges underneath his eyes.

"Oh, I'm alright Papa," replied Sammy, straightening in his chair as if to prove he was alert. "I didn't get much sleep because...er...Elanor was snoring."

The alleged noisemaker gasped indignantly and crossed her small arms over her chest. "Was not!" Elanor argued.

The adults broke into quiet laughter, and Sammy gave Elanor a pleading look. Suddenly, she knew that he didn't want everyone to know about the monster that only he seemed to be able to see. She didn't understand why he was afraid to tell them, but for friendship's sake, she played along. "Well, I suppose I might have cracked a snore or two," She said reluctantly, poking her lip out petulantly.

Gimli ruffled the little girl's bright curls fondly. "Don't you worry about that, lass. Snoring is a sign of bliss, among we dwarves! If you don't snore when you sleep, you're not getting enough rest, I say!"

"Yes...a point that he demonstrates on a regular basis, no matter where he sleeps." Legolas said. Despite the fact that he was sitting cross-legged on the floor, the elf seemed unreasonably comfortable. The dwarf flushed as everyone had a chuckle at his expense.

"It's better than the muttering you do when you go into that half-trance that passes as sleep for your kind!" Gimli bellowed, pointing his fork at the elf accusingly. Legolas retaliated by catapulting a piece of broccoli from his fork, straight at the dwarf. The vegetable hit Gimli's beard and dangled there oddly. He scowled at Legolas, who was smirking triumphantly. "You asked for it, my lad," He said.

Merry and Pippin grinned at each other. "Food fight!" They both hollered.

"No! No food fights at my table!" Rosie yelled as she hurried into the dining area. It was too late. Gimli launched a pancake at Legolas, and the elf ducked just in time, leaving it to sail harmlessly over his head and slap poor Samwise in the chest. The gardener grimaced and peeled the syrupy mess off of his shirt.

"Sorry about that, lad," Gimli began, but Sam chucked the pancake right back at him before he could finish speaking. With another wet "smack!" The abused pancake hit Gimli squarely in the face.

"Oh, do grow up," Started Frodo, and he was rewarded for his comment by a piece of flying bacon landing in his hair. The ring bearer glared at Pippin, who covered his mouth and giggled.

"You've pelted my gentlehobbit! This means war!" Cried Pearl, and her toast sailed across the room in a wobbling arc. Merry swore as it hit him in the shoulder.

"Look at the example you're giving the wee ones!" Cried Rosie, as chaos broke out. Everyone at the table (except for said wee ones) began pitching various food items at each other. Rose cried out in dismay when globs of butter entered the arena. "My kitchen!" She moaned, and in her anger, she lifted a half-cooked egg from the frying pan with her spatula and launched it at Legolas, who had started the entire thing.

The elf was taken by surprise, clearly not expecting the dignified, motherly hobbit to join the little war. He grimaced in disgust when the egg slapped against the side of his head, and the yoke dripped down his flaxen hair. "Oh really now...that's too much!" He said with mock anger. Rose squealed as he threw a jellied roll at her.

Sammy promptly picked up his plate and crawled beneath the table to finish his breakfast safely. Elanor saw, and she followed his example. "How long do you think they're gonna be doing this?" She questioned.

Both children winced as Merry stood up, only to slip on a buttered roll and fall unceremoniously to the floor. "Let's just hope they don't break anything," Sammy said seriously as he bit into his toast. It was a good, long while before the adults were finished playing.

~******************~

Days passed, and Pearl began to worry about her son. It was clear that the hobbit child was not getting the rest he needed, though she did not understand why. Not wanting to worry Frodo, she timidly spoke to Legolas of her concerns.

"And you say he seems to have an aversion to the closet lately?" Questioned the elf gently.

Pearl nodded. "Yes...I think he may have seen another vision or simply had an intense nightmare about closets, for some reason. He won't talk to me about it, Lego! I'm his mother...he should tell me if something is bothering him!" She was nearly pouting as they walked along the trail to the market.

Legolas smiled gently. "You are probably correct, Pearl. Children have very active imaginations, and it could merely be a phase. I would advise you to continue in your efforts to coax him into confiding in you, however. Your little Samwise is a very special child, and I would not want to pass off his fears as I would most other children's. A mother's intuition is often correct."

She looked up at him thankfully, but she didn't smile. This bothered Legolas, for both Pearl and Pippin were normally irrepressible with their smiles and laughter. "What else troubles you, dear?" He questioned.

"Hmmm...there's no getting passed you," She muttered. "Well, I'm debating on whether I should talk to Frodo about this or not. I'm sure he sees that there's something wrong here, but so far he seems to chalk it up to his son's overactive imagination. I...don't think he realizes just how serious Sammy's gifts are."

Legolas frowned. "Well Pearl...it would make sense. Frodo has only recently gotten to know his son, but you have known Sammy since the day he was conceived. You above all people have the experience to know just what is simple imagination and what could be a true vision. I do not think it would hurt matters, if you were to discuss this with Frodo. I know that you do not want to put any pressure on our dear ring bearer, but this is his child, and he needs to know if there is something seriously troubling Sammy."

She sighed and nodded. "I know...I just hate to make those blue eyes lose their sparkle. I guess I can't protect both the son and the father from everything, can I?"

Legolas nodded. "Indeed. Pearl, is this why you asked for Gimli and I to stay longer?"

She smirked. "Yeah. You think I'm being silly, don't you?"

Legolas patted her shoulder. "Not at all, milady. If it makes you feel better that we are here, we certainly do not mind. I would remind you, however...I am a warrior, and not a healer. If there truly is something wrong with your little lad, you might seek help from wiser heads than mine and Gimli's."

She smiled up at him. "I know that...it's just that Sammy adores the two of you...much like his father. I think he feels better with you being here, too."

Legolas laughed in delight. "Ah, so Gimli and I are the nightmare slayers as well, eh?"

Pearl chuckled. "It would seem so."

~************~

Later that evening, Sammy was sitting on Frodo's lap, as he always did before bedtime. The ring bearer was telling him the story of Tom Bombadil and Goldberry, and how the merry man had saved he, Samwise, Merry and Pippin from certain death in the Old Forest. Frodo didn't speak of the barrow downs. He was worried that doing so might give Sammy more nightmares.

"Papa?" The child said with a yawn.

"Yes Sammy...what is it?"

"Tell me about...Gollum."

Frodo raised his eyebrows and looked across the room at Pearl. She shrugged and mouthed, "I didn't tell him anything about it!"

Cautiously, Frodo murmured, "Why would you want to know anything about that creature?"

Sammy picked at the buttons on Frodo's shirt and shrugged. "I've dreamed about him before...I saw how he guided you and uncle Samwise through the marshes. I also saw how he tricked you into going into that spider's lair. I want to know why he's so mean." The lad's bottom lip quivered and he sniffled.

Frodo gazed at his son in amazement. He knew the child was gifted, but this?! He gently stroked Sammy's honey colored curls and said, "I don't pretend to understand how you can envision all of these things, lad. I will do as you ask, however. Gollum's true name was once Smeagol. Believe it or not, he was almost like you and I, long ago. He and his friend, Deagol, were fishing one day, and Deagol discovered a golden ring by accident-"

"Was that the One Ring?" Sammy broke in, blue eyes wide.

Frodo smiled patiently at the interruption. "Yes little Samwise. The very same. As the story goes, Smeagol was immediately drawn to the ring. He was a weak willed creature, you see. He demanded that Deagol give it to him, for it was his birthday, and some folk actually give presents to the birthday boy or girl, rather than the other way around, as it is with we hobbits. Well, Deagol was just as drawn to the ring, and refused."

Frodo paused here as Samwise entered the lounge. The gardener was frowning as he heard the conversation. He always had despised Gollum, and he gave Frodo a concerned look. Both the ring bearer and the gardener wondered how much Frodo should tell his son about how Gollum came to own the ring. Clearing his throat, Frodo said, "Smeagol fought with Deagol over the ring, and won (he did not tell Sammy that he strangled Deagol to death). As the years passed, he became suspicious of everyone...even his closest friends. He thought that those around him wanted to steal the ring, which was precious to him." Frodo swallowed, and his blue eyes became shadowed with remembered pain. It still hurt sometimes; he still felt a vague regret over the ring's demise.

Elanor had come in and sat on the floor in front of Frodo and Sammy. "What happened then, Uncle Frodo?" She questioned innocently.

Frodo took a deep breath and banished the old desires that crept up on him. "People began to call him Gollum, for the sounds which came from his throat. You see, the ring was corrupting him...twisting him in form and spirit. He fled his home and hid away within the Misty Mountains, where nobody saw him again, until Bilbo stumbled across his lair. By then, Gollum was no longer anything like his former self. He was as ugly in appearance as he was on the inside. Bilbo found the ring by chance, though I suspect that the ring might have actually found * him *. He made off with it, and Gollum pursued him. The creature believed that all Bagginses were thieves, from that day forward, and he vowed to hate us forever."

Sammy looked down thoughtfully, biting his lip. "Papa...I had another dream that Gollum fell into a big hole full of fire...is that how he died?"

Frodo shared an amazed look with Sam, and the gardener's eyes were both haunted and tender as he looked at the ring bearer. He would never forget that dark day, and how Frodo had nearly lost himself to the insidious powers of the ring. "Yes, son. He...redeemed himself, by destroying the ring along with his own life."

Sammy's eyes came back up, and Frodo could tell that his son didn't believe he was telling the whole truth. "I don't think he was finished, Papa." Sammy said ominously. The adults exchanged worried looks. Even Legolas paused and frowned at the child. What was Sammy trying to say?

-To be continued

~****************~

"Cloudburst"

Part 20

Sammy wouldn't explain what he meant by his statement...at least not fully. When asked further, he merely shrugged and said, "I just have a feeling inside that Gollum isn't at peace. I don't know why." He gave Elanor a warning glare when the little girl started to open her mouth. Catching the message, she snapped her lips shut and complied with Sammy's wishes, though her eyes said she thought it was a big mistake not to tell the adults about the creature haunting him.

Frodo sighed and rubbed his eyes. "Alright, lad. I won't pressure you...but if something is truly troubling you, I'd appreciate it if you told your mother and I. We might be able to help, you know."

Sammy nodded and curled his fingers into Frodo's hair. "I know, Papa. I promise, I'm alright." His father's large blue eyes, so like his own, stared at him suspiciously for a moment, and then Frodo finally shrugged.

"Well, if you say so. Now, it is your bedtime," He said as he lifted the child. He carried him down the hall and to the bedroom, then tucked him in and gave him a tender kiss on the forehead. "Remember, Mama and I are just down the hall. You may come to us if you are troubled by nightmares, little one."

Sammy nodded and gave a jaw-cracking yawn. "Goodnight, Papa. Goodnight, Mama."

Frodo coaxed a reluctant Pearl out of the room. "I'm sure he'll come to us if it gets too bad for him," he whispered into her ear. Biting her lip, she nodded and followed the ring bearer back into the lounge room, making way for Sam and Elanor as she did.

Gimli gave her a sympathetic look as she sat down beside Frodo on the couch. "Wee ones have active imaginations, Pearl. I'm sure Sammy's alright," he said gruffly. He had never seen Pearl look so worried before.

She gave the dwarf a thankful, if forced smile and snuggled against Frodo as he put his arm around her. Merry cleared his throat, not liking the thickness of the atmosphere. "Well, who's up for a game of cards?" he questioned. The others agreed, feeling the need to take their minds off of Sammy's chilling statement.

~************~

Later that evening, after everyone else had retired, Pearl and Frodo made their way to their own bedroom. She noticed that he peeked at her several times through lowered lashes, blushing faintly. What was her lad up to, now?

Once they were in the bedroom and Frodo had lit the lamp, she saw what caused those shy but mischievous looks. He apparently had decided that tonight was the night to get her back for tying him up. She chuckled as she saw the linen strips that were attached to the posts of the bed. "And just what do you think you're going to do with those, Mr. Baggins?" she questioned, raising her eyebrows at him.

He was blushing furiously, but he moved towards her and put his hands on her hips. "I told you I would get you back, Kitten," he murmured before giving her a heated kiss. She clung to him and rubbed her body against his, more aroused than she had expected by the idea of him tying her up.

"I take it I'm in for some trouble tonight," she murmured between kisses. He said nothing, just lifted her and set her down on the bed. His fingers deftly plucked the buttons of her blouse open to bare her flesh. Whisper soft, he stroked her sides, once her blouse was out of the way. Pearl sighed and relaxed, enjoying the magic of his touch. He teasingly caressed her belly and ribs, then the outer swell of her breasts. She couldn't stop the impatient wriggling that seized her, and she arched her back in a silent request for him to touch her breasts. He smiled and lowered his mouth to her stomach, licking the skin and sucking with his lips. His hands began to work at her trousers.

"As much as these show of your pretty figure, they tend to be a bother in the bedroom," Frodo murmured as he struggled with the pants. Pearl gave a breathy chuckle and helped him to remove them. Once that was accomplished, Frodo arranged her limbs much the same way she had done to him, the first time she had tied him up. Goosebumps formed on her skin as he bound her wrists and ankles firmly, yet carefully.

With a grin, he tugged on the restraints. "Nice and tight," he whispered, and then he commenced to ravishing her mouth with his. She wondered at first why he had left her undergarments on, but as his lips trailed lower and reached her chest, she understood. Pearl couldn't stop the gasp that passed her lips as he pulled her corset down with his teeth, exposing her breasts to the night air.

"You wicked lad...what are you doing?" she said with a chuckle. He raised his sapphire eyes to hers momentarily and lifted his eyebrows suggestively. Then he began to kiss her ribs, then her breasts. She clenched her teeth and strained against her bonds as he teasingly worshipped the twin mounds with lips and hands. When his warm, wet mouth finally took one of her nipples into it and began to suckle, she jerked in pleasure and moaned his name. The fingers of one of his hands gently tweaked the other nipple, while the other hand slid down her body to pull at her panties. "Frodo," she groaned, lifting her hips.

Frodo realized his mistake in tying her up before removing her clothing; how was he to get her panties off, now? Remembering how many shirts in his collection had been missing buttons due to her enthusiasm, the ring bearer smiled. One good turn deserved another, didn't it? Pearl's green eyes shot open wide at the sound of her panties rending. "Frodo! What are you doing?" It was too late. He had torn her underwear in two, and he gave her a half-apologetic shrug, then began to kiss her inner thighs. The feel of his warm lips so close to her most sensitive area made her completely forget about the ruined garment, and she purred and moved her hips. "I want to touch you, Frodo," she whimpered.

She felt his lips turn up into a smile against her skin. "That's too bad, Kitten. You'll just have to lie there and let me have my way with you," he whispered. She was about to mutter a scathing comment, but his thumbs parted the folds of flesh between her legs and his tongue began to thrust into her.

"Oh...that's...no fair!" she gasped, arching against him. He replaced his tongue with two of his long fingers, thrusting them deeply within her. Then he began to lick the tender, swollen nub of her clitoris, while his other hand reached up and fondled one of her breasts. Pearl whimpered and rotated her hips. Frodo had done something similar to this before, but never on so grand a scale! It was sweet torture that she was all too willing to take. His fingers continuously pushed in and out of her vagina, while he massaged her labia and clitoris with his tongue and lips, making tiny circles over the sensitive flesh.

Pearl began to tremble as he leisurely stimulated her, and she couldn't stop the ragged cry that burst from her lips as she orgasmed. Frodo made a soft purr of satisfaction, but he did not cease his ministrations. If anything, he became more intense with them. She began to jerk uncontrollably as he alternately sucked on the tiny nub and licked at the surrounding flesh. "Oh, Frodo...I think...you're going to...kill me with this," she panted. He gave a hard, deep thrust with his fingers, hitting the spot deep inside of her that always felt so good, and she bucked her hips and gasped as the pressure built up again.

Frodo found that he quite enjoyed doing this to his Pearl. As much as his own genitals ached with need, it was very gratifying to hear the constant moans his lover gave, and to feel her body tremble from pleasure. His lips drew a bit harder on her clitoris as his fingers rubbed and pressed against the spot within her, and her entire body arched with the force of her orgasm. When it played itself out, Pearl lay panting and moaning incoherently, begging him to fill her. The ringbearer found himself unable to continue this torment, as much as he would have liked to. He felt as though he would pop if he didn't sheath himself within his Kitten's warmth.

He covered her body with his and stroked the damp curls out of her hazy eyes. "Revenge is sweet," he murmured huskily, smiling down at her.

She stared up at him and rotated her hips against his. "Give it to me, Frodo," she gasped. Her heat was searing.

He closed his eyes and gave in to her demand, for in truth, he could not hold off any longer. They both groaned as he slid deeply into her and kissed her. "You feel so wonderful," he panted as he began a gentle rhythm. She coated his neck and chest with little kisses, her breath coming fast and sharp as he took her. His blue eyes bored into hers for a few moments, then he licked his lips and the lids slid closed over those bright orbs.

Their soft moans and whimpers mingled as Frodo's excitement grew, and he couldn't stop himself from thrusting harder and faster. His aching, swollen shaft screamed for release, but he bit his lips and held off for as long as he could. He enjoyed the half-growl, half purr of pleasure his lover was making too much to end it so soon. She bucked against him, her breasts pushing against his chest. Frodo dipped his head and licked at her hardened nipples, barely checking a moan as her tight warmth pulsated around his manhood from another orgasm. "Elbereth...I can't wait any longer," he groaned helplessly. Then he thrust his tongue demandingly into Pearl's mouth and grunted as he climaxed.

He literally felt dizzy for a few moments from the release, and he breathed hoarsely and planted soft kisses on Pearl's face and neck. "I love you so," he panted.

She kissed his chin and said breathlessly, "I should hope so, my pretty lad." There was a twinkle in her green eyes as she looked up at him. He chuckled and carefully pulled out of her, then untied the bonds that held her. He frowned when he noticed a bit of chafing on the smooth skin of her wrists.

"I am sorry about this," he murmured, kissing the irritated flesh tenderly.

Pearl chuckled and ran her fingers through his dark curls. "Don't be silly, Frodo. I enjoyed that little 'lesson' immensely." Her grin broadened when he lowered his eyes and blushed. How could someone so good in bed still be so shy? She counted herself lucky to have such an endearing lover, and she rolled him onto his back and rested her head on his chest. "You know, I could get used to all of this 'getting back at each other' business, Mr. Baggins."

Frodo snorted with laughter and stroked her back. "You could, could you? I shall endeavor to watch my back, in that case."

He jerked a bit when she reached her hand beneath his hips and pinched his bottom. "I'll be all too happy to watch your back as well, gentlehobbit." They both sighed in contentment and drifted off to sleep, embracing each other.

~**********~

Meanwhile, little Sammy and Elanor were neither of them finding rest. The little girl spoke to her playmate as he panted and clutched at his pillows. She was worried...she couldn't see anything, but his wide, blue eyes were fixed on something that seemed to be moving closer to him, nonetheless. A wet stain spread across his blanket and he whimpered as something only he could detect moved closer to him. "Sammy?" Elanor said uncertainly. "Want me to get a grown up?" She was almost as frightened as he was.

The little boy's head suddenly snapped back and he made a gurgling sound, and Elanor bit her pillow and gave a breathless cry if fear. Sammy's eyes rolled back, and he spoke. It was not his voice. "Filthy Bagginses! They tricked us into destroying the preciouss!" he hissed in a strangely sibilant voice. Then he fell over, unconscious.

It was more than a little girl could be expected to take. Elanor gave a high pitched, panicked scream and began to sob. She wanted to go to her friend to see what was the matter, but the way his face had almost seemed to transform into a hideous mask, and the voice he had spoken with, frightened her too badly. The bad thing was inside of Sammy! Her screams continued, and bile rose in her throat.

-To be continued

~*************~

"Cloudburst"

Part 21

The scream cut through Samwise like a knife. He had finally drifted off, and was just entering a pleasant dream about gardens and twining vines, when his little girl's terrified shriek woke him. Gasping as if a bucket of icewater had been dumped on him, the gardener jumped out of bed and yanked the door open. In his haste, Sam nearly bowled Frodo over, who was just running past his bedroom door. Pearl was at his heals.

"Elanor?" said Rosie in alarm, and she too got out of bed. Little Frodo's cries began to mingle with his sister's, and their parents practically flew down the hallway in a mad dash. Pearl had thoughtfully taken the time to light a lantern and bring it with her. It was a good thing that she did, for Samwise nearly tripped and fell in the darkness. Legolas was quite suddenly outside the door to the children's room, having moved so swiftly that nobody had even registered it. Soon, the entire household was woken up by Elanor and the baby's wails.

"Ellie, what is it, flower?" Sam cried as he rushed into the room and scooped his screaming daughter into his arms. Rose quickly went to the bassinet in the corner of the room and lifted little Frodo into her arms, bobbing him and cooing gently to calm him.

Pearl yanked her robe the rest of the way closed and shined the lantern into the room. Her son lay at an odd angle on his bed, unmoving. She gave a cry of alarm, and Frodo was immediately at the side of the bed. "Sammy? Sammy, wake up," Frodo said in a trembling voice, gently shaking his son. The lad was cold and clammy to the touch, and the whites of his eyes could be seen through half-closed lids.

"It got to him! The bad thing is inside of him!" screamed Elanor. Samwise rocked her in his arms and stroked her fair hair, looking over at the ring bearer with an expression of helpless confusion in his eyes.

"He is not responding," said Frodo, completely ignoring all others around him as he tried to warm his son's chilled flesh. If it weren't for the slow rise and fall of the child's chest, Frodo might have thought that he was dead. "Sammy, please...open your eyes and speak to Papa," the ring bearer begged in a choked whisper. Pearl had fallen to her knees beside him and was adding her own quiet pleas to his.

Rose managed to get a hold of herself, upon seeing that none of the children were marked or bleeding. "Elanor, sweetest...tell us what happened," she said in as calm a voice as she could muster.

The little girl whimpered, "Sammy s-said he kept...seeing G-Gollum in the room. I c-couldn't see it, but S-Sammy could, and he started t-to cough and jerk and make funny noises, then he turned into Gollum and n-now he won't wake up!"

Rose looked helplessly from her husband to Frodo and Pearl, then at the pale, still form of little Samwise, whom Frodo and Pearl were cradling and begging to wake up. "We should fetch someone who knows medicine," she said. "I don't understand what our lamb is trying to say, and poor Sammy looks very ill. It could be an illness going around."

At this point, Sammy opened his eyes and whispered, "Papa? I don't feel good."

Frodo practically sobbed with relief to see his son responding. He stroked the boy's chilled forehead and whispered, "We are going to send for someone to make you feel better, lad. Just hold on."

"Let me have a look," said Samwise as he steered Elanor to her mother. The gardener went to one knee in front of the bed and touched Sammy's face, looking into his eyes. "I'm no expert, but I'd say he's shocked, Mr. Frodo. Something scared him right good, I'll wager. He's got no signs of a flu or anything."

Sammy's lower lip quivered. "You don't have to talk like I'm not even here, you know," the boy said indignantly. Pearl laughed in relief and hugged her son, recognizing the insulted, petulant tone as a sign that he was feeling more like himself.

"What's going on?" said Pippin's voice from the threshold. The youngest Took was rubbing his eyes and peering into the room blearily.

"It would seem that young Samwise had another nightmare," Legolas said, though his tone hinted that there might be something more ominous to it.

Frodo stared deeply into his son's dazed eyes and whispered, "Sammy, please tell us. What happened?"

Sammy looked confused and frightened at the same time. "I...don't know, Papa. I thought I saw something in the room, and then it was like I couldn't breath. I think it was a nightmare." It was clear that the little boy was trying to put up a brave front, but his small body shook with remembered terror.

Frodo pulled the child into his arms and kissed his forehead. "Would you like to sleep with us tonight, little one?" Sammy nodded and curled his fingers into Frodo's hair. The ring bearer looked at his fiance with a reassuring smile, and then he lifted his son up and carried him out of the room.

Pearl heaved a sigh and looked up at Rosie. "I'm sorry, love. I wish I knew what causes these spells of his. They half scare me to death!"

Rose shook her head and hugged little Frodo closer to her chest. "Don't apologize, Pearl. We all know how special Sammy is...how can any of us see what's going on in that little head of his?"

Elanor tugged at Samwise's robe. "Papa...can I sleep with you and Mama tonight, too? I'm scared."

Sam scooped his daughter up with one arm and tweaked her pert little nose. "Sure you can, Nubbin. I'll see to it that no boogey men bother you tonight." She smiled and put her arms around her father's neck. Rosie finally managed to get Frodo to doze again, and she laid her tiny son back in the cradle and covered him snugly.

"Will everything be well with your son, Pearl?" questioned Legolas in concern as she came out of the bedroom.

She smiled. "I think so. We'll probably take him to see a healer tomorrow, just to be sure he hasn't come down with something. In the meantime, I'm sure Frodo can work some of his magic on him. My gentlehobbit has healing powers of his own, I think."

~**************~

Frodo tucked his son in and kissed his brow. The skin was still clammy to the touch, and the ring bearer winced inwardly...though he tried to show none of his concern on his features. Sammy looked up at him with big, strangely intense blue eyes. "Papa?"

"What is it, little one?"

"Did you know that Gollum wanted you for himself?"

Frodo went still, his features caught somewhere between bewilderment and fear. "What are you talking about, Sammy?" he whispered.

Sammy smiled. It was not the smile of an innocent, young hobbit lad. It was predatory. His voice took on a scratchy, whiney quality that was frightfully familiar to the ringbearer. "He wanted to be you, Papa. He wanted to drink your soul and fill the hole inside of him." Sammy's features seemed to change before Frodo's startled eyes. The lad's sweet, round face appeared to wither and become gaunt and hollowed out, making his eyes appear enormous. An unwholesome, green glow lit their depths, and Sammy's hand reached for his father.

Frodo recoiled in horror as the boy's fingers appeared to stretch and elongate. "Baggins," The boy hissed, snarling in a feral manner.

Frodo retreated from the bed, and tears filled his eyes. "Sammy, what has happened to you? Get out of my son, you monstrosity!"

Pearl entered the room at this moment and saw what was happening. Her hand flew to her mouth and her eyes went round with shock at the sight of her son transforming into some hideous creature. "Sammy!" she cried.

Something seemed to snap, at that moment. The wide eyes of the child, which had been dulling with a milky film, suddenly became confused. Sammy shuddered and curled into a ball, and his features reverted to their normal stated. "Leave me alone!" The boy sobbed, rocking himself back and forth.

Through white lips, Frodo rasped, "Get Legolas, Pearl...quickly!"

-To be continued

~**************~

"Cloudburst"

Part 22

Legolas sighed and tucked the boy in after carefully examining him. "Frodo, there is more to this than my simple skills can heal," the elf explained, "another presence has literally manifested inside of little Samwise. I wish that I knew how this could have happened, my dear friend. For now, Sammy will sleep undisturbed. It will not last, however."

Frodo nodded wordlessly, unable to speak past the lump of fear and helplessness welling in his throat. It was Pippin who suggested; "Maybe Gollum's spirit found its way back here to the Shire and has been trying to get to Frodo for all these years. What if Sammy's gifts opened him up to Gollum?"

Pearl growled, "He can't have my son! I want that slimy bastard out of my little Samwise!" she looked around the room, thinking perhaps the vile spirit was waiting somewhere in there to pounce on her child's helpless form again. "Do you hear me?! Leave my son be, or the fires of Mordor will seem like a marshmallow roast, when I'm finished with you!" she shook her small fist at the air in front of her, and Frodo pulled her tightly into his arms and held her, trying to calm her down.

"Pearl, please stop...you are only upsetting yourself!" he cried as she fought him.

"Let go of me! I want to kill it! I want to tear the filthy creature limb from limb!" her hair was standing on end like an angry cat's fur might do.

He cupped her face in his hands and yelled, "You can't, Pearl! Gollum is dead! We must find a way to banish him, do you understand?" He shook her for emphasis, his own upset state making him rough with her.

Legolas placed a long hand on each of their shoulders and murmured, "Listen to me, my friends. Sammy's problem is likely as Pippin cleverly pointed out. Gollum seems to have found a way to get back at you through your son, Frodo. If we are to help him, I believe the answer lies in Rivendell. Elrond still resides there, and he may be able to do something for your son."

Frodo looked up at the archer with pleading blue eyes, and Legolas smiled gently. "We will find a way, ringbearer. I am certain of it. Will you be ready to go in the morning?"

Frodo looked at his son and nodded. "Yes. Whatever needs to be done, we shall do it. I cannot bear the thought of my loved ones suffering because of me," the slender hobbit began to shake, and he curled his fingers into his hair and fell to his knees. "Why can't we be left in peace?!" he howled, breaking down into dry, bitter sobs, "Is my past going to haunt everyone I come into contact with, even children I sire?"

Gimli stomped into the room carrying two cups of tea that Sam had brewed up. With a meaningful look at Frodo and Pearl, the dwarf handed the cups to Legolas and stepped back. Legolas took his cue and held a cup out to each of them. "Here, drink this," he commanded.

Frodo calmed himself, though his breath was still hitching raggedly. He sniffed the aroma rising from the cup and frowned. "Athelas?"

The archer nodded. "Aye. 'Twill help the two of you get some much needed rest. Please, my friend. Drink it." He glanced at Pearl, who had already downed her cup and stood trembling with her fists clenched at her sides.

Frodo lifted the cup to his lips and drank deeply, grimacing at the flavor. Sam had brewed the tea strong. Rose peeked around the corner and suggested, "Why don't the two of you sleep in Elanor's bed, Frodo? She'll be sleeping with us, tonight."

He nodded, wiping his eyes with the sleeve of his robe. "Thank you, Rosie. I...don't think I can leave Sammy alone tonight."

Giving the sleeping child a troubled glance, Legolas said, "I shall stay in here with you, in case he wakes up in the night."

Frodo nodded wordlessly and slipped into the other bed, holding the covers open for Pearl. With a sniffle and a desperate look at her sleeping son, she climbed in beside Frodo and snuggled against him. The others exchanged worried looks before leaving the room.

~************~

The tea worked quickly on Pearl, and Legolas extinguished the lamp as she drifted to sleep. Frodo peeked out over the top of her head and held her more tightly against him as Legolas seated himself cross-legged on the floor between the two beds. The moonlight streaming through the window made the elf's hair appear silvery. Frodo's eyes began to drift shut as he looked at his son, and he wondered if Elrond would be able to do anything for the lad. If not, they might have no other recourse but to send Sammy off to the undying lands, where Gandalf and Galadriel might be able to help him. A lump formed in the ringbearer's throat as this possibility came to him. How could he send little Samwise away, when he had just formed a bond with him?

His eyes drifted shut, and he opened them for one moment more to have a last look at Sammy's sweet, sleeping face before going to sleep. Frodo went still and trembled all over. Sammy's eyes were opened halfway and staring straight at him. They were glowing in the dark with a green light, and filled with malice.

Legolas noticed, and his bright eyes glittered as they caught the child's gaze. "I would not, if I were you," the elf mouthed. His face was expressionless, but there was an unmistakable threat in his eyes that told the malevolent being within the child that if it so much as moved, Legolas would hurt it. Inside Sammy's mind, Gollum cringed. He did not like the elf. The nassty, shiny thing had hurt him and made him go away, earlier. He would have to wait for another opportunity to get the Baggins. The elf stared at him for a moment longer, than closed his eyes. Gollum wasn't fooled. It was waiting for him to provoke it so that it could burn him with its starlight again.

Frodo felt his heart hammering in his chest as Sammy's eyes switched from him to Legolas and back again. The tainted, green glow in his son's eyes dimmed, and the lids slipped shut over them once more. The ringbearer took a deep shuddering breath and wondered what threat Legolas must have given Gollum to make it retreat. The burst of adrenaline from seeing his son staring at him with a mixture of almost sexual hunger and murderous intent had destroyed the effect of the Athelas potion. Frodo could not sleep. He was afraid of his own son.

~*************~

Sammy seemed more like his old self again upon awakening the next day. Pearl and Frodo explained to the child that they were going to take him to the house of Elrond to make the monster go away. "Papa, did I try to hurt you?" the child whispered, tears filling his eyes as Frodo unconsciously recoiled from him when he reached up for a hug.

Feeling like a monster himself, Frodo sighed and went to one knee before his son, taking him into his arms. "No, Sammy. You did not try to hurt me," he said honestly, kissing the lad's cheek. It felt warm-not feverish, but natural against the ringbearer's lips. He dared to hope that Gollum's spirit had dwindled away and evaporated with the rising sun. "The creature inside of you tried to hurt me," he went on, "it is not your fault."

When Father and Son's embrace ended, Pearl knelt to replace Frodo in the hug. "We're going to get you better, dumpling. Elrond is the best healer in Middle Earth."

Pippin and Merry insisted on coming along, and of course Gimli and Legolas were going. Samwise wanted to, but Frodo firmly told him to stay home with Rosie and his children. "Don't leave them alone, Samwise," he whispered seriously, blue eyes concerned, "I don't know if this thing is unique to Sammy or not. Gollum seems to be gone for now...I don't want to take the risk of him getting into one of your children without you there."

Sam paled and gulped. "D-do you think he could do that, Mr. Frodo?" he whispered, casting a furtive glance over his shoulder at Rose and Elanor, who waited in the doorway of Bag End, "Beggin' your pardon, but little Sammy's a mite bit special...don't you think Gollum will follow you and Sammy?"

Frodo glanced at his son, who was being helped onto a pony to sit in front of Pearl. He had wanted to hold his son, but Legolas insisted that Frodo ride with him. The ringbearer had a feeling that the elf wasn't telling him everything. "I think he probably will, Sam. I just don't want to take chances. I'd never forgive myself if something happened to your family because of me."

Sam blinked back tears and hugged Frodo tightly. "You get word back to us as soon as you know something, me dear," the gardener whispered. He gave his master a quick kiss on the cheek, and then turned around to go back into the burrow with his wife and children.

Frodo looked after him with aching sapphire eyes. "Aye, my friend. You'll be the first in the Shire to know," he whispered. With another sigh, he turned to Legolas, and like a child himself, lifted his arms to the elf to be placed on the magnificent steed Legolas rode.

Legolas gently lifted him and placed him in the saddle before smoothly mounting, himself. "You may go to sleep if you wish, ringbearer," the prince of Mirkwood whispered softly as Frodo yawned, "I shan't let you fall off. I know you rested very little last eve."

Frodo twisted and looked up at his friend with a frown. "Did you see...Sammy...look at me that way?" he murmured dully. His eyes were red-rimmed and dark circled from exhaustion and weeping.

Legolas nodded and stroked Frodo's curls gently. "Aye. Try not to think of it, Frodo. It wasn't Sammy looking at you that way."

Frodo nodded off as Legolas guided the horse with his kneed and continued to stroke the ringbearer's hair soothingly. The prince of Mirkwood hummed an elvish tune, and the exhausted hobbit cradled in his lap smiled in his sleep and snuggled against him. Gimli shared a smile with Legolas, relieved that the elf could keep Frodo's nightmares at bay with a simple song.

~**********~

-To be continued

~***********~

"Cloudburst"

Part 23

They traveled all day, stopping only briefly for lunch and supper. Pippin was thankful that he had brought a bag of carrots and apples to snack on, for Legolas and Gimli rudely didn't observe the Hobbit tradition of elevenses, afternoon tea, and dinner along with the other three meals. For once, the young Took kept quiet about his feelings, however. The dire situation with Sammy was enough to suppress even his quirkiness. Frodo drifted in and out of sleep in the saddle, secure in the knowledge that nothing would harm him or the others while Legolas and Gimli watched over them. They were just riding up on the entrance to Bree when the sun set fully.

Legolas was extremely thankful for his foresight in having Frodo ride with him, for as the sun went down, Sammy began to change. He wriggled restlessly in his mother's arms and started to mutter hoarsely. Pearl and Frodo shared a look of alarm, and before anyone could react, the child's eyes lit up and he turned in his seat to look up at Frodo, who rode beside them on the elf's white steed. The child licked his lips and snarled Frodo's surname, then leapt for him, his small hands already elongating and reaching for the ringbearer's throat.

Legolas snapped his arm down to block Sammy's attack, shielding Frodo from its fury. The small body clung to the horse's saddle and struggled with the tall elf to get to Frodo. The ringbearer's blue eyes were wide with horror and he whispered Sammy's name pleadingly. Pearl was screaming and reaching for her son, and Gimli quickly brought his mount alongside Legolas' steed and peeled the struggling child off of the saddle. Sammy drooled and hissed, lashing out at the sturdy dwarf as he fought to subdue him. "I need rope," Gimli growled.

Frodo protested weakly as Legolas reached into the saddlebag and produced a coil of elven made rope to hand to the dwarf. "What are you doing to my son?" yelled Pearl. Her pony pranced nervously and threatened to dismount her as her voice spooked it. She went dead white when Sammy began to scream at the touch of the rope as Gimli bound his hands and feet and held him tightly. "Stop it! You're hurting him!" she said furiously, reaching out purposefully. Pippin was coming to her aid, thinking that Legolas and Gimli had gone mad.

Legolas pulled his mount up beside Pearl's and reached down to grasp her wrist in a firm but careful grip. "Calm down, Pearl. I swear to you that only the creature inside of Sammy feels pain from the ropes," he said firmly. She stared up at him with large, tearful eyes and looked again at her struggling son.

Sammy's voice had taken on a high pitch and was grating to hear as he screeched, "It buurrns! Filthy elf stuff hurts!" Frodo covered his ears with his hands and squeezed his eyes shut tightly, and Merry stared with his jaw hanging open as Sammy's features slowly reverted back into that of a child's. The lad's struggles lessened, and Gimli rocked him in a fatherly gesture as he came back to himself. "Mama," Sammy moaned, beginning to cry, "why won't Gollum leave me alone?"

"Oh, Sammy," Pearl said, her breath hitching in a sob. Turning to Legolas, she said, "Will that rope stop that thing from coming back?"

Legolas hedged his brows. "I believe so, dear. I wasn't certain that it would force Gollum into a retreat...I only wanted to subdue Sammy so that he could not hurt himself or anyone else. Perhaps, if we leave him bound..."

"No," Frodo said raggedly, pulling his shaking hands away from his ears, "I will not allow Sammy to be punished for Gollum's actions!"

Sammy shook all over and said, "They aren't punishing me, Papa...Legolas is right. Gollum hates the touch of the elf rope...I don't mind being tied up if it will make him stay away." he bit his lip and tried to be brave, and Gimli patted him gently on the back to reassure him.

Frodo and Pearl looked at each other, and Pearl murmured, "Are you sure, my little elfling? Don't put yourself through pain if you aren't."

Sammy shuddered and looked from his mother to his father. "Yes, I'm sure. I feel Gollum in the back of my head...but he won't come any closer than that with the ropes on me. He's afraid of them. Even if he does come out, at least I can't get to Papa tied up like this. I...I'm sorry, Papa. I tried to stop him, but-" the child was unable to finish, for he began to cry again.

"That isn't your fault, Samwise," Frodo said gently, swallowing past the lump in his throat. "You are a very brave little lad, and I am proud of you."

Merry offered his cloak to Gimli to put around Sammy's trembling form, and the dwarf tucked the child up in it carefully and cradled him. Comforted by the feel of Gimli's strong arms about him, Sammy relaxed and tried not to be afraid.

~**********~

They stopped in Bree for the first night and stayed at the Prancing Pony. Butterbur greeted them warmly, inquiring as to what was wrong with the little lad that Gimli carried bundled up in his arms. The friendly innkeeper could not see that Sammy was tied up with rope, as concealed in the cloak as the child was. Legolas smoothly explained that the boy was ill and they were taking him to Rivendell for healing. The chubby innkeeper frowned in sympathy and gave Frodo a pat on the head. "Your son, is he? He has the look of you, little Master."

Frodo tried to smile, but his lips trembled and he began to weep, instead. Butterbur patted the ringbearer on the shoulder awkwardly and said, "I'm sorry to upset you, Mr. Underhill. You must have been through a trying time. I'll take you all to your rooms, now."

"Thank you," Frodo managed to say, embarrassed that he had burst into tears in front of the entire common room. Pearl was weeping silently too, and she stood next to Gimli and reached beneath the cloak covering Sammy's form to take the child's small hands. He squeezed her hand and gave her a little smile that begged her not to be upset. They followed Butterbur to the rooms, and Legolas requested that they all share the same one.

"As you wish, Master Legolas," the innkeeper said with a bow, "I regret that I don't have any beds of hobbit size in the room that's prepared for you and your dwarf companion, however."

Legolas smiled as Merry and Pippin shrugged. "I doubt it will be a problem, Master Butterbur. It simply means more room for our little friends."

Indeed, the big folk sized beds were large enough that all four of the adult hobbits could fit into one of them. Frodo suggested that Sammy sleep with them, and Legolas regretfully said, "I believe the little one should sleep with me, dear Frodo."

The ringbearer nodded in understanding. Gollum seemed intimidated by the elf, and was least likely to manifest with Legolas lying right next to him. He very much doubted that the prince of Mirkwood would even go into one of his trances. Frodo had faith that Legolas would stay alert the entire night through, watching Sammy for any changes. He kissed his son on the cheek and complimented him for his bravery again, and Pearl did the same. Both anxious parents watched as Legolas tucked their child into bed and lay beside him, gently holding him. They could hear the elf hum a soft tune, and they saw his long, elegant hand stroking Sammy's hair. The lad yawned and snuggled against the elf as his father had done on the horse, and was soon asleep. Merry and Pippin were already snoring softly and holding each other in a tight embrace, and Gimli was polishing his axe.

Frodo coaxed Pearl to lie down beside him, and he pulled her against him and nuzzled her hair. "What if Elrond can't heal our lad, Frodo?" she whispered fearfully.

He kissed her tenderly and murmured, "He will, Pearl. I know he will. I trust the elves."

~************~

As they traveled, they learned that Gollum only seemed to manifest at night. Legolas allowed Samwise to be untied during daylight hours, and the child excitedly asked endless questions about Rivendell and Elrond, though Frodo had told him several stories before. The ringbearer smiled at his son and described the Elven City to him again, relieved to see the lad in such high spirits, despite his predicament. It killed Frodo to watch Legolas carefully bind his son's hands and feet with the rope in the evenings, though the magical chord was so silken that it did not leave so much as a red mark on Sammy's tender flesh.

To his credit, Sammy endured the entire thing with stoicism that even Gimli could admire. He even told Legolas that he thought the elf should bind him sooner than he had been doing. He said he felt Gollum's presence becoming more desperate and insistent.

They reached Rivendell without further incident, and they found the city to be very sparsely populated. Merry counted about seventeen elves in all that they saw as they entered. The elves recognized them and called out lyrical greetings, questioning their business politely. Legolas explained everything, and the small company was immediately escorted to the house of Elrond. They were surprised and delighted to find both Arwen and Aragorn there, though Frodo recalled the King telling him at the party that they were traveling to visit the elf maiden's father.

"Frodo, what in Elbereth's name are you doing here?" Aragorn said in surprise when he spotted the ringbearer walking towards him. His confusion grew when he saw the rest of the band enter, and then his eyes narrowed in thought upon seeing little Sammy carried by Legolas.

"Oh, Aragorn...I do not know where to begin," Frodo said wearily, plopping down on the lounge across from the ranger and his wife. Pearl sat beside her lover and rested her head on his shoulder, and Frodo put his arm around her protectively.

"Well, it's like this," said Pippin when nobody else started talking. The Took explained everything in his unusual way, and Arwen gave Sammy a worried look.

"My father shall be in shortly...will you follow me to a bedroom which we can place your little one in, Frodo? The child looks absolutely exhausted." Arwen's soft gaze said that she was just as worried about the parents as she was about the child.

Frodo nodded and stood up to give her a bow that might have been graceful if he weren't so tired. "Thank you, lady Arwen. Your hospitality is gracious, as always," he said with a small smile.

Once Sammy was settled in, Aragorn lit the fireplace to keep the room warm, and they discussed the recent events. "You say Gollum only rears his ugly head at night, eh?" the ranger said thoughtfully as he stuffed a pipe.

Legolas nodded, his pale eyes on the fragile form in the bed. "Aye. The creature is determined to get to Frodo. I know not the reason, save that perhaps he blames Frodo for his death."

Merry said, "But that fool creature fell to his own death! Frodo was nowhere near him when he fell into the volcano!"

Aragorn lit his pipe and studied Sammy. "That's true, Master Brandybuck...yet whoever said that Gollum was a sensible creature? He always seemed drawn to Frodo, and I'm not at all certain that it was completely due to the ring, either. Samwise told me that he caught Gollum touching Frodo's face once, while they were traveling in Mordor. He said the creature seemed to be in awe of the ringbearer. Perhaps Frodo reminds him of someone he knew long ago, before he became Gollum. Who can say?"

Pearl felt like she knew, but she did not want to say anything, for the she didn't want to subject the others to the same chill that swept through her body...least of all Frodo. Perhaps Gollum found Frodo as beautiful as other, more wholesome beings did? Samwise described it best when he said that it was as if there was a light within Frodo, almost like that which elves possessed. Frodo's was more subtle and gentle, so perhaps Gollum admired it and wanted to be closer to it? Pearl did not doubt for a moment that the filthy creature was capable of lust, either. The revolting thought that Gollum might want to do other things with Frodo made her shudder. It was even worse that he was trying to use the ringbearer's own son to do whatever it was he wanted to do. She snuggled closer to her fiance and tried not to think about it.

~***********~

-To be continued

~************~

"Cloudburst"

Part 24

When Elrond arrived and they explained everything to him, he asked to be left alone with little Samwise so that he could examine the boy. He ordered the ropes that restrained him to be removed, and Legolas unquestioningly did so. Then they all filed out of the bedroom and waited nervously in the audience chamber while the healer worked over the lad. A woman offered them a choice of wine and mead, and everyone except Frodo gratefully took a cup. The ringbearer stared down the hallway leading to the bedroom that his son and Elrond were in. He would not be able to relax until he knew what was happening. Pearl had dozed off beside him, and Frodo absently combed his fingers through her hair as his blue eyes stared unwaveringly down the corridor.

The ringbearer was barely able to stop himself from leaping up when Elrond's tall form glided out from the shadowed hallway. Frodo swallowed hard as the wise, ancient being looked down at him with a mixture of disconcertment and resignation. "No," Frodo whispered pleadingly, feeling his strength give out. Elrond was not an easy creature to read, but the ringbearer could tell by the clear, regretful gaze that the healer was unable to cure Sammy. Tears filled his sapphire eyes, and a raw sob of pain escaped his lips.

"Can't you do anything at all for him?" said Pippin desperately, reading Frodo's reaction more than Elrond's expression.

The elven king sighed and gently placed a long hand on Frodo's trembling shoulder. "I regret to say this, Frodo Baggins, but there is little I can do for the boy alone."

Pearl heard this and woke up immediately. "Why...why can't you help our son? He doesn't deserve this!" she cried brokenly, standing up and clutching at Elrond's robes in an almost begging fashion. Frodo stared ahead dully, all the hope draining from him.

"I should not have come back," he whispered, so softly that only Elrond and Legolas heard him, "if I had stayed where I was, Gollum might never have attacked Sammy this way. My son would be safe. Perhaps I should just let the creature do whatever it wants to do to me, so that Samwise can be free of him."

Legolas' eyes widened in alarm, but before the prince could speak, lord Elrond knelt in front of Frodo and looked deeply into his eyes. "I did not say that your son could not be saved, Frodo. I said that I could not do it alone. How far are you willing to go?"

Stunned, Frodo snapped back into reality and looked at the elf king with wide eyes. "I...I will do whatever I must to keep my son safe, my lord," he said in a trembling voice, "what would you have me do?"

Elrond studied him silently, appraising his strength. Finally, he said, "You must fight Gollum, and finish it. He found your son through the bond you share, due to the ring. Samwise is special because of your connection with the ring, Frodo. As the ring wore both Gollum and yourself down over the years, so to did Gollum wear Samwise down, so that he could return and have what he wants."

Frodo stared at the healer with a slack mouth, shock and horror twisting his delicate features. "What does he want, exactly?" the ringbearer said softly.

"Why Mr. Baggins, I thought that you knew that already," Elrond murmured with narrowed eyes, "He wants you. You are the closest thing to the One Ring that he can possess, now that it is destroyed. Next to Bilbo, you are the only other living being who bore it for an extended period of time. Instead of going after Bilbo, Gollum has chosen you. There is something deeper than the feel of the ring that draws him to you, Frodo. Something unique about you that draws his attention."

The room was completely silent, save for Pearls soft weeping. Elrond was asking her gentlehobbit to possibly sacrifice himself to save their son! How could this be happening? She wanted to scream a denial as Frodo squared his shoulders and said, "Tell me what I must do, and I shall do it."

Elrond nodded, and something akin to admiration shone in his eyes. "I shall send your consciousness into your son's mind, where Gollum is lurking. There, you must battle him. He will leave under no other condition, and my powers are not strong enough to force him out, as they once were. There can be only one victor. If you should fail, I know not whether the creature will keep his part of the bargain and leave your son. You must not fail, Frodo Baggins. Banish him from Middle Earth forever."

Frodo nodded once. "When shall we begin?" he said, ignoring Pearl's cry of protest.

~***********~

-To be continued

~************~

"Cloudburst"

Part 25

~* Author's note: part of this chapter in the story is from Frodo's point of view. I thought it would intensify the experience of what he is about to face if the reader could see it through his eyes. I hope you like it. *~

Fear. Bilbo once said that fear is a healthy part of any adventure. He said it reminds you that you are alive, and have something to lose. Without fear, we might not be motivated to win a fight. I believe I have plenty of fear for all of us, today. For once, I disagree with what Bilbo said. I do not think that being afraid is going to help me one bit. I would prefer to go on this undertaking without fear, and instead wade in with confidence, even anger. I can not do that, however...no matter how I try. I am terrified. I have my son, my life, and possibly my soul to lose in this fight-how can I not be afraid? As I write this in the journal that Arwen has provided at my request, my thoughts go to Pearl and my friends. Please, if I do not succeed, take Sammy to the Blessed Realms. His last hope will be in Gandalf and Galadriel. I love you all. Elrond is waiting for me. I must go. Wish me luck.

-Frodo Baggins

~*************~

"Are you ready, Master Baggins?" questioned Elrond as he looked down at Frodo's prone form. He had lain the ringbearer down on the bed, beside his son. Only Pearl and Legolas had been allowed to stay in the room while this happened. Pearl, because her connection to her son and lover might keep Frodo aware of what was most important, and what he had to lose. Legolas, because of his strength and the confidence Frodo always seemed to feel around the prince of Mirkwood.

Frodo looked at Pearl and mouthed, "I love you," and then he turned his nervous, bright eyes to Elrond. "I am ready, my lord."

"Close your eyes, then. I want you to think back on the last time that you saw Gollum. Picture the environment in your mind."

Frodo's brow furrowed and his breath quickened. The last time he had seen the creature was in Mount Doom, on the lip of the volcano. Pearl clasped her hands anxiously and stared at her fiance with frightened eyes. She was aware of it as well. She saw Frodo's thumb unconsciously rub the slight stump where his ring finger used to be. Legolas put a steadying hand on her shoulder and squeezed gently, and she leaned against him and put her small hand over his.

Elrond began to chant; softly at first, then with rising intensity. The words flowed and danced together, sending Frodo into a deep trance. The ringbearer felt himself spiraling away from reality, as if he was being sucked into a vacuum of sorts. He moaned as dizziness washed over him and made him nauseous. When his world stopped spinning, he was still lying down. He almost said, "This is not working," but then he winced at the feel of a sharp rock digging into the small of his back. The temperature had gone up to an uncomfortable level, and the smell of sulfur was in the air. Frodo's blue eyes popped open, wide and disbelieving. He sat up slowly and took in his surroundings. "Mount Doom," he whispered, though he could not hear his whisper over the roar of the volcano. He was a mere few yards from the lip of it.

Blinking in amazement, he stood up slowly, swaying from disorientation. Something scuttled in the shadows to his left, and the ringbearer instinctively reached for Sting. He gasped, as his fingers found no scabbard. He was weaponless. "How am I to fight Gollum without my weapon?" he wondered hopelessly. What was Elrond thinking?

~***********~

"Wait...he wasn't wearing his sword!" Pearl said imploringly, tugging on Elrond's robe.

The elf king looked down at her with kind, yet firm eyes. "I know."

Pearl's mouth worked in betrayed animation. "H-how could you send him in against that thing without the means to kill him?" she shouted.

Legolas understood, and he knelt down before the distressed hobbit and whispered, "Pearl, listen to me...Lord Elrond knows what he is doing. Frodo would have taken Sting in here with him if his heart knew that swords were the way to win this fight. Our ringbearer's strength lies in other areas, as you well know. I think that in the back of his mind, Frodo knew this. He will prevail, little one. Please...trust your beloved in this."

Pearl looked as though her heart was shattering into a million pieces. "You'd better be right about this, Lego! If you aren't, I'm going to lose both of them!" Her small shoulders began to shake with sobs, and the elven warrior pulled her into his arms and rocked her gently. Elrond did not look away from the prone form of Frodo. He watched intensely for any change of expression on Frodo's face as the hobbit waged his battle alone.

~**********~

Frodo searched the ground frantically for any sign of Sting. He could not match Gollum's strength with his bare hands! He stopped and froze as a figure moved towards him out of the corner of his eye. Slowly, the ringbearer turned and looked at Gollum. The creature was smiling a shark-toothed grin and slowly approaching him. "The Baggins came, he did," hissed Gollum with a chuckle.

Frodo closed his eyes. He would have to do without Sting for this fight. The sapphire eyes opened again, and were bright with anger. "Leave my son, Gollum. You have nothing in this world to stay for, now."

Gollum's oversized, milky green eyes blinked slowly, and he sneered, "We has ssomething to sstay for, Baggins. It knowss we do!" and with that, the creature launched himself unexpectedly at Frodo. With a small cry, the ringbearer dodge to the left and nearly escaped the assault. Gollum's long, lanky hand closed around Frodo's ankle and held it in a vise-like grip. The hobbit kicked frantically, and was satisfied when his foot connected with the creature's face once, making Gollum howl.

Infuriated, Gollum bit into Frodo's leg, drawing blood. The ringbearer screamed and tried to rise and get out of the creature's reach. Gollum was too strong for him. He pulled himself on top of the struggling hobbit's body and fought to subdue the flailing limbs. "We'll get what we wantss, my preciouss," Gollum hissed huskily, his long tongue snaking out to lick at Frodo's face.

Revolted, the ringbearer reached desperately for anything he could use as a weapon. His hand closed around a large rock, and he grasped it and yelled furiously as he struck Gollum upside the head with it. The creature shrieked and clutched his skull, reeling to the side and removing his weight from the hobbit. Frodo rolled to the side, away from Gollum, and pulled himself shakily to his feet. His blue eyes blazed and his nostrils flared as he stared down at the huddled, hideous form before him.

Gollum looked up at Frodo, and the hobbit faltered. For a moment, the creature's expression was openly hurt and vulnerable...and lonely. "Why do you want me?" Frodo questioned in an unstable voice. He dreaded the answer, but his curiosity got the better of him.

"The Baggins iss all that'ss left of the preciouss," Gollum replied, getting to his feet and staring at Frodo hungrily, "We wantss the pretty hobbit!" and then he pounced again. The creature was so agile and unpredictable that he again caught Frodo off guard. He tackled the hobbit and knocked him to the ground.

Frodo felt a sharp pain in the back of his head and heard a sickening crack. Stars burst in his vision as Gollum hovered over him and ran his filthy hands over the hobbit's body...almost as if the creature was petting him. The ringbearer was vaguely aware that he had lost his grip on the rock he had been using as a weapon. Clammy lips nuzzled his neck, and he twisted weakly beneath the malformed body that pinned him to the ground. "Preciouss," Gollum was whispering excitedly, digging gouges in Frodo's chest with his fingernails as he ripped at the hobbit's clothing.

The ringbearer shuddered as he thought of what the creature was clearly planning to do to him. He closed his eyes and tried to think of a solution. There must be a way to win this...there had to be! His eyes opened slowly as realization came to him. Gollum was unfulfilled. That was why he would not leave Middle Earth...he did not truly realize he was dead. The creature had fallen into Mount Doom so quickly when he died that he likely barely registered his own demise.

"Smeagol," Frodo murmured softly, stopping his struggles.

At the sound of his true name being spoken so gently, Gollum paused and looked down at Frodo's delicate features. "Why doess it call uss that, my preciouss?"

The ringbearer swallowed and stared into the otherworldly eyes earnestly. "Because, that is who you are. Somewhere inside of Gollum, Smeagol still exists. You were not always like this. The ring did this to you!"

Gollum grimaced and touched Frodo's cheek with cool fingertips. "Ssmeagol iss dead," he said with a touch of regret. Then he bent over the prone ringbearer again and began planting sloppy kisses on his neck.

Frodo grimaced and forced himself not to fight. He could get through to Smeagol, he realized. He could free him from the wretched existence he had. He sighed, and Gollum took it as a sign of submission and chortled happily, slipping his clammy hands beneath the hobbit's shirt to feel the smooth flesh of his torso. "Smeagol, please listen to me," Frodo said, and he forced himself to stroke the creature's knobby back. Keeping his lips from twisting in disgust at the feel of the leathery skin was more difficult, but he managed to make his mouth seem soft and relaxed as Gollum lifted up in surprise at the touch and looked at him.

Frodo took a deep breath, fighting the dizziness that attacked him from hitting his head. "You fell into the fires of Mount Doom, eight years ago. You took the ring from me, by biting my finger off," he lifted his hand to show the creature the empty spot where the finger used to be.

Gollum hissed in annoyance, "We knowss that, Baggins! We remember it. But, we didn't die, did we, my precious??"

Frodo hedged his brows. "Yes, Smeagol. No creature of flesh and blood could survive falling into lava. Not even you. You don't have to live like this anymore. You can leave...you can go to the afterlife now, without being plagued by the ring. It no longer has a hold on you, don't you see?"

Gollum licked his lips thoughtfully and tilted his head. "We don't believe you, Baggins," he said. Despite his words, he didn't move to paw at Frodo again. He simply stared down at him expectantly.

"How can I show you? What do you need that will help you be free?" Frodo murmured reluctantly. He feared the answer to that, given the way Gollum had been behaving towards him.

The creature considered the question, then finally stood up, offering his oversized hand to the hobbit. Frodo hesitantly took it and allowed Gollum to help him stand. "Bring Smeagol out," said the creature, "Make uss Smeagol again, and we'll leave."

Frodo's blue eyes lowered helplessly. How was he supposed to do that? "If the Baggins can't do it, we getss to keep him," said the creature ominously.

The ringbearer closed his eyes. This was his final and only chance to free both of them. He reached out and touched Gollum's face...hesitantly at first, then with more confidence. The creature went stock-still and parted his mouth in awe. Frodo tried to ignore the outward appearance of Gollum and focus on the small person buried deeply beneath the surface. He had no idea what Smeagol actually looked like before his transformation. Gandalf had said only that he was similar to a hobbit.

The ringbearer sensed that trying to imagine a hobbit in front of him would do no good. That would merely be him trying to shape Smeagol into a creature of his own imagination. Frodo bit his lip and put his arms around the wiry form of the creature, hugging him tightly. "Not Gollum," the hobbit whispered against the creature's ear, "Smeagol. You are Smeagol." He put himself into a trance, imagining the rough skin softening, the gangly limbs shrinking and filling out, the lank hair thickening and becoming soft. Caught in his own trance, Frodo held the creature tighter as Gollum whimpered.

"Come back, Smeagol. Come out of the darkness...it is over," the ringbearer whispered, and he kissed the creature on the cheek. His lips met with smooth, warm flesh, and Frodo's sapphire eyes opened slowly and widely, hardly daring to believe. Carefully, gently, the ringbearer pulled back and held the creature at arms length. "Smeagol," he murmured, surprise making his eyes big.

Staring back at him was a diminutive person of his height. * By Elbereth...he looks like me! * Frodo thought in bewilderment. Indeed, the small person standing before him with a lost, disbelieving expression could be Frodo's brother, save that his hair was light brown-almost blond, and his expressive, deep eyes were mahogany brown, and his skin was light brown in tone.

Smeagol lifted his own hands up and stared at them in wonder. Elegant and deft, like Frodo's own hands. With a shiver, Frodo wondered if perhaps Smeagol truly was a far distant relative. "We are Smeagol?" the creature asked. He still used the same speech pattern as Gollum, but the sibilant lisp was gone. Frodo found the voice to be quite pleasant, actually. Noticing the other's nudity, the ringbearer flushed and removed his own cloak to fasten it around Smeagol's shoulders.

"I believe you are, Smeagol," the ringbearer sighed, smiling in relief. The other looked at Frodo with an expression of joy mixed with guilt.

"What have we done?" the being said in a broken whisper.

Frodo shook his head. "It no longer matters. You are free to go home, now. Free of your alter-ego, and free of the ring's touch."

Smeagol's eyes became distant. "The ring," he said with a frown, "we killed our friend for it...we must apologize to Deagol," he began to cry silently, great tears slipping down his cheeks. "We can't remember everything...speaking is hard for us."

Frodo put his hands on the other's shoulders and pressed his forehead against his. "I know. You were under the influence of the ring for a long, long time. You can rest now."

Smeagol nodded and gave Frodo a soft, loving look. "We saw ourselves in you, Baggins," he murmured.

The ringbearer nodded, understanding Gollum's motive for coming after him, now that he saw how similar Smeagol was in appearance to him...even in personality. "I know. It is alright, Smeagol."

The other turned away from him and walked to the edge of the volcano. His brown eyes stared into the fiery depths below, unblinking. "Home," he said.

Frodo felt alarmed, but he forced himself not to act. He sensed that in order to start his journey home, Smeagol must take the same route that ended Gollum's physical existence. The ringbearer felt his eyes fill with tears, and Smeagol's form blurred in his vision. The other, so like a hobbit, but lacking the pointed ears and furry, large feet, looked back at him once more, and smiled. "We won't forget this, Baggins. We'll tell Deagol how it saved us," and then he stepped over the edge and fell silently into the fires of Mount Doom.

~**********~

Legolas cocked his head to one side and frowned down at Frodo's sleeping form. The ringbearer had tears dripping down his temples from the corners of his eyes. The long-lashed orbs slowly opened and blinked. "Pearl?" Frodo said in a sorrowful, vulnerable voice.

She came to his side immediately and hugged him to her as he sat up. He was weeping and trembling. "What happened, darling?" she questioned in alarm.

"Gollum...is no more," he answered in a choked whisper, "Smeagol is free, and so is our little Samwise."

Legolas looked at Elrond questioningly as the ringbearer broke down and sobbed against his fiance's shoulder. What had Frodo been forced to endure, to be this brokenhearted? What did he see while he was there? The older elf watched the two hobbits embrace with a kind expression on his face. Elrond saw the entire thing in his mind, but he would leave the telling to Frodo. At the moment, the hobbit needed comfort more than anything else. The elf king smiled at Samwise, who gave a sigh of relief in his sleep and curled into a comfortable, little ball.

~*************~

-To be continued

~*************~

"Cloudburst"

Part 26

The entire ordeal left both Frodo and Sammy drained. Elrond insisted that they rest in Rivendell for a few days to regain their strength. The little boy was very happy with this, for in his enigmatic way, he sensed that soon the wonders of the elves would be history. The opportunity to explore the wondrous city was too great for Sammy to pass up, and he begged and pleaded with his parents until they both caved in. Truth be told, Frodo was happy to stay for a few days. He had forgotten the beauty of Rivendell, and to hear the softly melodic voices of the elves all around him was quite relaxing. He was only sad that there were so few of them left, compared to when he last visited. It was also a chance to visit longer with Aragorn and Arwen.

The ring bearer was walking quietly with Elrond in the lush gardens the next afternoon when it struck him. How perfect a setting would this be? Without the noise and the bothersome relatives...a place enchanting and soon to pass from Middle Earth forever. How could he not have considered this before? "My lord?" Frodo began hesitantly, stopping on the cobbled path they walked.

Elrond stopped as well and looked down at the hobbit patiently. He could tell by the hopeful way those big, blue eyes looked up at him that Frodo had an important question to ask. "Yes Master Baggins, what is it?"

Gathering his nerve, Frodo said, "I can not thank you enough for what you have done for my son and I. Without your intervention, we may never have found the means to rid Samwise of Gollum's spirit," he paused as the elf king nodded in graceful acceptance of the praise, "I have yet another request for you. You see, Pearl and I are to be married. The wedding is not scheduled to happen for another month and a half, but after what we've been through together, I...I do not want to wait for that long. I feel that I have put this off for quite long enough, and I was pondering...well, hoping really, that you would do the honor of presiding over our vows. Here, in Rivendell. Tomorrow evening, if possible."

Elrond's sculpted, dark eyebrows lifted in mild surprise, and he knelt before Frodo with a small grin on his lips. "I see. I cannot say that I blame you for wishing to embrace every opportunity for happiness at the earliest convenience, Frodo. However, are you certain that an elven city is the proper setting for a wedding between two hobbits? Would you not rather be surrounded by family and friends on your special day?" He wasn't refusing, he was simply pointing some things out that the ring bearer might not have considered.

Frodo smiled softly and lowered his gaze. "Well, I suppose under normal circumstances I would prefer for it to be that way. It's just that Pearl and I need piece right now, and I know that she finds your wonderful city as enthralling as I do. I oughtn't say this, but the relatives will only make the wedding stressful for both of us. They tend to be a bit...loud," he blushed in mortification as Elrond pinched his lips to keep from laughing, "and as for my friends, many of those who are dearest to my heart are here with us."

"What about your loyal companion, Samwise?" questioned Elrond gently.

Frodo winced, and his periwinkle eyes darkened with regret. "He is truly the one person whom I wished to be present for my wedding day, over everyone. But, Sam will understand...I am sure of it. He knows me better than I know myself, and I do not doubt that he would want me to marry Pearl in this wondrous place. He will be disappointed, I know, but I believe he will forgive me."

Elrond nodded slowly and gave Frodo a gentle pat on the shoulder. "So be it, my brave little friend. If Rivendell is where you wish to be wed, then it shall be. I would be honored to preside over your vows."

Frodo smiled hugely and forgot himself in his joy at Elrond's acceptance of his request. The hobbit hugged the elven king tightly. "Oh, thank you, Lord Elrond! I've got to tell Pearl and Sammy...they will be so happy!"

Elrond chuckled and returned the embrace of the small ring bearer a bit awkwardly. Hobbits and their innocent, impulsive ways never ceased to amaze him. "You are sure your lady will agree to this?" he asked when they parted.

Frodo's face fell. He was so excited about the whole thing, he selfishly hadn't even thought to ask Pearl if she wanted it this way. He had merely assumed she would. "I believe that she will, but I should ask her first, shouldn't I?"

Elrond pressed his lips together to control the grin trying to spread on them, and he nodded. "That would be a wise action, Master Baggins. I have learned that choosing things for women without consulting them often gets one into trouble."

~**************~

After nearly an hour of searching for them, Frodo was finally pointed in the right direction by a helpful elf, and he found Pearl and little Samwise playing in the forest surrounding Rivendell. He watched for a few moments, content to enjoy the sight of his lover and son playing a game of hide and seek. The ring bearer smiled as Sammy located Pearl's none too clever hiding spot behind a tree and chased her around in circles. Mother and son fell together in a heap, laughing as they tried to out-do one another in a tickling contest.

It was Sammy who noticed Frodo watching them first. The child sobered a bit and climbed off of his mother. His pale eyes were solemn as he approached his Father and smiled. "We wanted you to play too Papa, but you were talking to Elrond. We thought we should leave you alone."

Frodo scooped Sammy up into his arms and nuzzled his honey curls fondly. "That's quite alright, lad. We have plenty of time to play as many games as we would like. For now, I have something important to discuss with both you and Mama."

Pearl brushed her clothing free of grass and walked over to Frodo. "Is everything alright?" she asked with a hint of concern.

Frodo shifted Sammy so that the child was held more firmly in his arms, and he nodded and gave his lover a tender look. All of the things they had been through, and all of the things she had endured during his absence had taken a toll on her. She was as lovely as the day she had taken the initiative in the river Brandywine, so many years ago, yet her carefree attitude of those days was dimmed now. It hurt Frodo to think that he had damaged part of what made Pearl Took such a special woman. "Everything is perfect, Kitten. What I have to discuss is nothing ominous or dire, but it does have to do with our future."

He set Sammy down gently and motioned towards a bench by entrance of Rivendell. "Please, won't you both sit with me? It's a rather important thing that I must ask you."

They followed him to the bench and sat down on either side of him, and he put an arm around each of them. "I love you both very much," he murmured, kissing first Pearl's, then Sammy's lips, "and after recent events, I've decided that it would be folly for me to wait any longer to make us into a legitimate family. I spoke with Elrond this afternoon and asked that he give us our marriage vows here, in Rivendell. He accepted."

Frodo's eyes sparkled like starlight as he gazed earnestly at Pearl, who was speechless with surprise. He said nothing, clearly waiting for her input on the matter. "Oh...oh Frodo...you want us to get married here? That would be like a story in a book," Pearl exclaimed breathlessly, and the ring bearer smiled, "but I don't think that the elves would appreciate half of the Shire invading their home."

Frodo grimaced a bit and said softly, "That isn't what I've got in mind, dearest. I was rather hoping that we could have the ceremony tomorrow night. I do not wish to wait any longer. I want us to be united in all ways, and May is so far away to me. I understand if you do not want to do it, Pearl. I'm leaving the decision up to you and Sammy."

She stared at him for a moment, then looked to Sammy. Their son had an expression of such joy on his small face that she knew immediately what his answer was. Tomorrow night. She could be Mrs. Baggins tomorrow night...all she had to do was say yes. She looked at Frodo again, and her heartbeat quickened. He was so beautiful. Eyes a more brilliant blue than any ocean regarded her with love and desire, and his sensitive lips were parted slightly. A breeze stirred the dark curls that tumbled around his elfishly handsome face, making stray locks of it caress his smooth, high cheekbones. How could she say no to that? "Let's do it, Frodo."

Long-lashed eyelids closed over his bright eyes in a slow blink, and when they lifted again, the orbs showed both surprise and delight. Frodo exhaled in a rush, not realizing until that moment that he had been holding his breath. "Truly? You do not mind that your parents will not be here for it?" he questioned softly, breathlessly.

Pearl laughed. "You should know better than to ask me that, gentlehobbit. I would have liked for my Papa to give me away, but Mama would have ruined our wedding night with her harping on both of us about the proper way to behave. I just wish that Rosie and Sam could be here."

Frodo nodded and frowned slightly. "I know. Now I regret having told Sam to stay at home, but they will understand...I'm certain of it," he turned to his son and said, "well Sammy...how do you feel about all of this? Would you prefer for your Mother and I to wait until we can be married in the Shire?"

Sammy shook his head vehemently. "No Papa. I don't care if it's in the Shire or on the moon...I just want you and Mama to be married."

A lump formed in Frodo's throat. How cruel of him, to deprive his son of the pleasure of having a true family. Sammy's innocent words gave Frodo insight on just how badly the child wanted what other hobbit children had. "We will be, lad. Tomorrow night. That is a promise," Frodo whispered, hugging his son to him.

~***********~

"You're WHAT?!"

The shocked outburst gained the attention of a few passers-by, and Pearl tried to shush her brother as he sputtered, "B-but what about Mama and Papa? They should be here! I thought you said you were going to wait until May!" Merry wore an identical expression of surprise on his face, but the Brandybuck merely nodded and smiled happily for the couple.

Irritated with Pippin's less than encouraging response, Frodo spoke almost in a growl; "Peregrin Took, you above all others were determined that Pearl and I should get married, and yet now you're behaving as if I'm some unsavory beggar come to steal your sister away!"

Pippin snapped his mouth shut and crinkled his face up. "It's not that, Frodo...truly! I just thought you'd be marrying in the Shire, with everyone there to congratulate you! I...I also kind of wanted to see the look on Mama's face when she's proven wrong about you, once and for all."

Frodo smirked and crossed his arms over his chest as Merry kicked Pippin in the shin and the Took flushed with the realization of what he had just blurted. "What exactly am I proving her wrong about, Pip?"

Pearl averted her eyes and looked both angry and uncomfortable. Frodo frowned. It must be serious. "What does Eglantine have to say about me, Pippin? What did Pearl go through while I was away?" The pain was welling up again, and the anger at himself for hurting his Kitten by leaving.

Pippin took a step back. Though Frodo was shorter than he was and more slender, the burning intensity in those sapphire eyes made the ring bearer seem larger than life. It reminded Pip of Gandalf...the wizard was deceptively frail looking, but if you angered him you learned differently...fast. "W-well you see, Frodo...our Mother isn't exactly the nicest hobbit in the Shire. She...she expects a lot out of everyone...maybe too much. She wanted Pearl to marry one of the Chubb lads, and when she found out Sissy was carrying your wee one, she sort of fell apart and had a fit." He stopped, eyeing his sister miserably as she turned away.

Putting his arm around Pearl as if to protect her even from the memories, Frodo said, "Go on. Tell me."

With a deep sigh, Pearl said, "She called me all sorts of things, and said some horrible things about you. I slapped her once for it," she ignored the wide-eyed look of disbelief that Frodo gave her and went on, "she said you were never coming back, and even if you did come back, I'd be nothing but your whore. She said that you thought you were too good for married life, that you weren't right in the head and wouldn't care that I had a child by you. She....she..." Pearl began to cry softly, angrily wiping her eyes with her fingers, and Frodo hugged her tightly.

"Oh, Pearl...I had no idea how much you suffered because of me. Your own Mother...why didn't you tell me this?" he kissed the tears that ran down her cheeks, and he was thankful that Sammy was off with Legolas and Gimli at the moment. This certainly wasn't something he wanted his son to know about.

Pearl took a deep breath and rested her head on Frodo's chest as she explained, "I didn't tell you because none of those awful things she said were true. You didn't abandon me, and I knew that you would have never thought of me the way she assumed you did. You're so riddled with guilt over leaving already...I didn't want you to feel even worse. I also didn't want you to feel pressured."

Frodo stroked her hair and murmured, "I wish I had known about this, but there's little to be done about it right now," looking at Pippin, he said, "I understand how you feel, Pip. However, we aren't getting married for anyone except Samwise and ourselves. I hardly care what folk in the Shire have to say about it, so long as I have my Pearl and Sammy. Now then...will you give us your blessings?"

Pippin sniffled and nodded, and Merry stepped forward and patted Frodo on the back. "Well done, my fine hobbit," he said sincerely, "a lass couldn't ask for a better setting to be married in. You always do things on a grand scale, just like old Bilbo."

They all had a good laugh at that, and the rest of the afternoon was spent making preparations for the ceremony to come. Arwen and some of the other elf women abducted Pearl and presented her with a gown to wear. The hobbit woman protested weakly that she did not like to wear dresses, though her green eyes couldn't look away from the gorgeous splendor of the dress. When she questioned how in Middle Earth they had found something that would fit her small form, Arwen explained that the dress had been worn at her own wedding by one of the flower girls, who was a child about the same size as Pearl.

"You do want to make your Frodo breathless with admiration on your wedding day, don't you?" Arwen said, gazing at Pearl slyly through lowered lashes. The elf grinned as the hobbit began to visibly cave in.

"It's the most beautiful dress I've ever seen," Pearl admitted softly, fingering the soft garment with awe.

"Well then, let us put it on you and see what sort of adjustments need to be made!" another elf said gleefully. They were like little girls! Pearl felt like overgrown hobbit women surrounded her, the way these elves carried on. They certainly weren't behaving like dignified, graceful elves! She supposed that for women of any race, a wedding day was reason enough to get excited and giggle like children. She wished the butterflies in her stomach would go away. She hadn't worn a dress in seven years...would she even remember how to move in one? Would Frodo like it? Then she thought of what their wedding night would be like, in this romantic, enchanting place, and she flushed as all sorts of ideas went through her head. They weren't allowing her and Frodo to sleep in the same room tonight. Custom, they said. Pearl was so full of emotion and desire for Frodo that she almost felt sorry for him. Once the ceremony was over and she and Frodo were alone together, she intended to show him just why he would never regret marrying her.

Arwen saw the expressions flitting across her small friend's face, and she smiled and whispered, "Time enough to think of that later, pretty hobbit. We've a gown to fit!" She laughed as Pearl turned bright pink with embarrassment.

~*****************~

-To be continued

~****************~

"Cloudburst"

Part 27

"Frodo, do stop squirming," said Legolas with a hint of irritation in his smooth voice. The elf was trying to fasten the brooch on the embroidered cloak that had been made for Frodo's special day.

Frodo fidgeted anyways, unable to stop his nervous movements. "I'm sorry, Legolas. I am just so nervous! Why do my knees feel like water? I've been waiting for this day, so why is it that I feel I could retch?"

Aragorn laughed and ruffled his small friend's curls fondly. "Your anxiety is quite normal, I assure you. Every man, be they human, elvish or halfling, feels this way on the day of his wedding. All of it will fade, when you lay eyes on your bride, however."

Frodo's blue eyes became dreamy and he stilled at the King's words. Merry and Pippin grinned at each other as Frodo daydreamed about Pearl. "I love her so much," Frodo murmured softly, "I never thought that this day would come for me...never dreamed that a woman could love me and give me a family. I almost feel that I could fly, I am so light-headed!"

"Just don't faint, and everything will be fine," replied Legolas. He gave a little sigh of relief when the stubborn brooch was finally fastened into place. Legolas straightened up and took a step back to survey his handiwork. "You make quite the handsome groom, dear Frodo," he said with a smile.

"How about an ale to calm your nerves," suggested Gimli, "You look a wee bit pale, lad."

Frodo gave a nervous chuckle. "Thank you Gimli, but I prefer to have a clear head for my wedding. I am sorry to be so much trouble."

Aragorn shook his head. "Not at all, Frodo. I'm quite sure that Arwen is having more trouble with Pearl than we are with you."

Frodo grinned. His beloved kitten hated dresses...he could imagine how comfortable she was in a wedding gown. "Let's hope she isn't making it too terribly hard on Lady Arwen," he said seriously, "I would hate for my bride to be late for her own wedding."

Legolas smiled gently. "I think this day is too important to Pearl for her to argue too strongly. Come now...let us go to the garden. Everyone is waiting."

~************~

A warm breeze was blowing, and there was hardly a cloud in the sky. Frodo gulped as he approached Elrond to stand before him. The elf king smiled down at the hobbit kindly. "You almost look like a smaller version of one of my people, ringbearer. Quite the striking little fellow, aren't you?"

Frodo blushed as a few of the gathered elves nodded in agreement. He didn't know quite what to think of the way their bright eyes assessed him, especially the admiring looks in some of the women's eyes. How odd, to have women twice his size commenting on how handsome they thought he was! He felt like he had walked into a bizarre dream, and he swallowed a nervous giggle that rose in his chest. The assembly quieted, and Frodo turned around to follow their eyes. He nearly fell on his face at the sight of Pearl.

Her honey colored hair was held back from her face with a wreath of flowers, and it fell in shiny curls to her shoulders. The dress she wore looked as if it was made out of quartz crystals, so much did it shimmer with her movements. The delicate, elvish design clung to her curves in all the right places, yet moved suppley with her body as she walked towards Frodo with a smile on her face. Samwise walked beside his mother, looking handsome in his white, elvish attire. To Frodo, they looked like something out of a fairy story. He felt foolish suddenly, because his vision blurred with tears as he realized how very lucky he was to have them.

"Easy there lad," said Gimli beside him. The dwarf clamped a meaty hand on Frodo's arm to steady him, for he literally swayed as though he was going to fall.

"I'm alright," Frodo said breathlessly as his friends looked at him in concern, "it was just a moment of dizziness."

Pearl was blushing when she took her place beside Frodo and held his hand. "I wish they'd stop staring," she whispered, uncomfortable with the whole thing.

"They're supposed to stare, Mama. You and Papa are the main attraction!" Sammy exclaimed in excitement. This drew chuckles from the assembly.

"Let us begin," Elrond intoned, and the crowd quieted. "Today is a blessed day for all, as two hearts come together in the most sacred of vows. Elbereth surely must be smiling down on Master Baggins and lady Took."

Both hobbits flushed at the formal title, and Pippin let out a high-pitched giggle, which Merry quickly stifled with his hand. After a long, drawn out speech (which Merry, Pippin and little Samwise thought was far too detailed to be interesting), Elrond finally produced a golden ribbon, and he instructed the couple to hold their clasped hands up. He twined the ribbon around both their wrists and hands, said something in elvish which to Pippin sounded like gibberish, and kissed both their foreheads. "All have witnessed the love you proclaim for one another. You are now husband and wife...may your union be blessed with great happiness and health!"

There were smiles and soft, congratulatory murmurs from the elves...not at all like what it would have been like in the Shire. The hobbits would have cheered and raised mugs of ale and danced around like fools 'till the sun came up. The elves' quiet, dignified way of showing their enthusiasm for the event did much for Frodo's already frazzled nerves. He kissed Pearl deeply, holding onto her so tightly that she had difficulty breathing. She didn't mind one bit. She kissed him back just as passionately, and when she felt the moisture on her face, she didn't know if it came from her tears or Frodo's.

~************~

Frodo and Pearl were equally surprised when the elves hurried them into the marriage suite. "Do not concern yourself with us, Master Baggins," said Arwen with a wink as he protested weakly about leaving the guests so abruptly, "this is your night. We shall get along just fine." With that said, she closed the door and left the newly married couple alone in their room.

Frodo lowered his blue gaze bashfully, uncomfortable with the idea that so many people knew what he and Pearl were about to do with one another. Not only did they know it, but given the devilish look in some of the elves eyes, they were probably discussing it as they celebrated! "Eccentric bunch, aren't they?" he said, half apologizing to Pearl for the odd way they conducted things.

She chuckled and came into his arms, running her fingers through his dark curls. "I don't mind a bit, my pretty lad. It's actually refreshing to be able to have you to myself so soon. Back home, we'd have to stay around for hours and dance with everyone there! This is much better. I can have my way with you all the sooner," her green eyes twinkled as she slid her hands down his neck and began to unbutton his shirt.

He stared down at her with heavy-lidded eyes and parted his lips. It was like that day in the Brandywine river all over again! He didn't know what to do or say, and he felt all fluttery inside. He supposed that part of it was because she looked so perfect-he was afraid he would damage the fragile beauty before him with his clumsy hands. Pearl kissed and nibbled his neck and collarbone as she slowly revealed more and more of his chest to her hungry touch. She felt his pulse beating against her lips, heard his breath catch as her hands caressed his torso in a sensual glide. Yet he stood there as if frozen. She stopped for a moment, pausing with her hands just at the fastenings of his trousers. "What's the matter, love?"

He smiled sheepishly. "Oh, absolutely nothing is 'wrong', persay," he explained, "on the contrary, it's all so right that I'm stunned. Would you believe that I'm as nervous and frozen as I was the first time we...er, you know?"

Pearl laughed in delight. "That is so adorable, Frodo. I don't know whether to pinch your cheeks or rape you." Judging by the look in her eye, she wasn't entirely joking when she said that.

When he blushed further, she realized he wasn't exaggerating in the slightest. Somehow, the knowledge that he was overcome by a bout of shyness aroused her even more. It was like being with him for the first time. In a sense, it was the first time-for them as a married couple, at least. Pearl understood, then. To the sensitive ringbearer, this was a big change. He had known Pearl as a lover for years, but tonight, he would know her as his wife. "Oh, my sweet, gentlehobbit," she purred, kissing him tenderly.

Frodo put his arms around her carefully, as if afraid she would shatter. She found that amusing, considering how hard he hugged her when their vows had finished earlier. She said nothing about it, however. She finished unbuttoning his shirt and held his wide, sapphire eyes with her own. She kissed his parted lips softly as she slid the garment over his shoulders, and he helped her to take it off. Once he was bare chested, she turned around and lifted her hair. "Would you help me with this, love? I can't reach the clasps."

Frodo nodded stupidly and fumbled with the fastenings of her beautiful gown. It was almost a shame to remove it, as it made her look like some beautiful, mythological being that he'd read about in storybooks. However, once she stepped out of the gown and carefully set it on the chest beside them, Frodo was quite glad to be rid of it. His bright eyes lingered on her, admiring the way the silvery material of the slip she wore beneath the dress accented her body. Pearl came into his arms again, her hands practically tickling his belly as she caressed it with her fingertips. Her tongue plunged into his mouth to fence with his, and her fingers began to work at opening his trousers.

Frodo's passion began to overpower his bashfulness, and he sucked gently on Pearl's tongue and lifted her shift so that he could explore her thighs and hips. She sighed and pressed harder against him, loving the feel of the hard bulge in his pants against her belly. Suddenly growing impatient, she pulled out of the kiss and gently tugged his earlobe with her teeth, while her hands pulled forcefully on the waistline of his trousers.

Frodo gasped as the buttons holding his pants closed popped off, but before he could voice a protest to the mangling, she slipped her hand into the ravaged opening and gripped his erection. He groaned and grasped her hips, feeling himself quickly losing control. "Ah, that's better," she said huskily as she nibbled his ear and stroked his throbbing penis.

"That's...hardly...fair," he panted, moving his hips in time with the movements of her gripping hand. She merely increased the speed and friction, making his breath catch and his knees weak.

"How about this?" she teased, sucking and nibbling on his sensitive lips.

Frodo gave a low groan and cupped her buttocks, then bent his knees slightly and lifted her. She gave a little squeak of surprise and wrapped her legs around his waist as he carried her to the bed. It was a tall bed, not designed for small folk...so when Frodo set her down on it, her hips were still level with his.

Pearl started to lie back, but Frodo stopped her and stepped back for a moment to pull her panties off. "Stay the way you are, kitten," he said breathlessly.

"Oh, not shy anymore, are we?" she replied with a grin. Her heart gave a little leap when he raised those gorgeous eyes to hers and shook his head, his expression completely serious. Oh boy...she was in trouble. Memories of the time they had broken Merry's kitchen table making love in this position made her loins throb. She couldn't think of anything clever to say as Frodo tossed her panties aside and pulled his trousers and skivvies off. She stared at his slender, graceful body as he parted her thighs with his hands.

Frodo was having difficulty finding his breath as he slipped a hand between her thighs and began to gently rub her loins in a circular pattern. He decided to leave the shift on, as the idea of making love to her while she wore it appealed to him. Pearl tilted her head back and shuddered in pleasure as he stroked her. He kissed her throat and murmured shaken endearments to her as she wriggled against his fingers and panted.

Pearl couldn't understand what he was saying, for he spoke in elvish, but she sensed the messages of love in his whispers. She gasped and moaned his name as he thrust a finger into her, while his thumb carefully stroked her nubbin. Frodo continued the stimulation until her entrance was slippery and she tensed up and climaxed. "There's a good lass," he said raggedly, hardly able to stand the need for release he was feeling.

Pearl barely had time to recover from the orgasm before Frodo's engorged, long length slid into her. She bit his shoulder and cried out as he thrust himself in to the hilt and held it there for a moment. Frodo shuddered and held himself as still as possible as he threatened to peak too quickly. Pearl started to move her hips, but he stilled them desperately with his hands and gasped, "give me a moment, kitten...you feel too good."

She complied, but it wasn't easy. Didn't he realize that he felt good, too? The feel of his thickness filling her body was intoxicating-something she would never tire of. She caressed his face, her fingertips tracing the artful contours as she admired his beauty. "I'm the luckiest woman in Middle Earth," she whispered, suddenly in awe of him. It wasn't simply his looks, though they were breathtaking in themselves. It was his thoughtfulness and gentle nature, and his willingness to do anything for his loved ones. Not many lads would take as much time as he did insuring that their women were enjoying lovemaking as much as they were.

Frodo calmed somewhat and kissed her adoringly, and then he began to move. He thrust in a gentle, unhurried pace, cupping her hips and pulling her tightly against him. Pearl sighed in pleasure and locked her ankles together behind his back, cupping his flexing buttocks as he made love to her. "I love you, Frodo. I never want to lose you again," she whispered against his ear.

He pulled back to lock his blue gaze with hers. "You never shall, kitten. I'm here to stay, this time." He held her tightly as his passion grew, and his thrusts became deeper and harder. Both of them were slick with perspiration, and they reached heights of ecstasy that they didn't think was possible. Frodo shouted hoarsely when his orgasm hit him, and he lay half-atop his new wife when it was over. Pearl stroked his dampened curls and kissed him as he caught his breath, and she knew with all certainty that Frodo Baggins was hers, 'till the end of their days.

~************~

They returned to the Shire three days later, and announced the news to friends and family. Eglantine Took started to say something, but Frodo's blue eyes turned icy on her and he whispered in her ear, "I know all about the troubles you gave Pearl while I was gone. I certainly deserved your contempt, but Pearl did not. It would be in your best interests to apologize to your daughter and let the entire thing drop."

Pippin exchanged a confused look with Pearl as their mother paled and looked at Frodo with something akin to fear on her face. Frodo smiled pleasantly, giving no clue as to what he whispered to her. Their shock was complete when Eglantine approached Pearl and cleared her throat before saying, "I know I haven't been a very supportive mother, Pearl. I was only thinking about how angry I was with your situation, and I didn't think of you or your feelings at all. I...I'm sorry. I hope we can start over."

Pearl felt tears sting her eyes, and she nodded. "I'd like that, Mama."

~************~

"I can't rightly say I'm not a bit miffed that you went and got married without me there, Mr. Frodo," Samwise said when Frodo told him. The gardener blinked rapidly to fight the tears welling in his eyes, and Frodo rubbed his shoulder and felt like crying, himself.

"Oh, Sam...I wanted you to be there, too. More than anybody. If I could have found a way to get you there, I would have. Please, don't hold this against me."

Sam chuckled and cupped Frodo's chin fondly. "You didn't let me finish, me dear. I'm upset that I wasn't there, but I understand why you did it. After all you and Pearl have gone through, you both deserved the kind 'o peaceful wedding you had in Rivendell...without the hootin' and hollerin' of the Shirefolk. Just make sure you don't forget to bring me when your next little one comes."

Frodo blushed. "Our n-next little one? Sam, we've barely even begun our marriage...don't you think that's a bit premature?"

Samwise winked at him. "I know how eager you can be, and Pearl's pretty excitable herself, judging the sounds I've heard from your bedroom in the past. Believe you me, you'll have another baby to keep Sammy company."

Samwise laughed again as his dear friend and master reddened from head to toe. He truly loved making Frodo blush, and it made him feel much better over missing the wedding. The most important thing was that they were all happy, and it finally looked like that was going to be achieved.

~************~

-The End.