The Emerald Diadem - Aria Breuer (Aria_Breuer), The Long Series (Aria_Breuer) (2024)

Chapter 1: Prologue: Voldemort

Chapter Text

Prologue:

Voldemort

The sun's light waned on the horizon.

As Lara-Belle watched the sunset, from where she lay on a flat stone boulder, thoughts of Coral flashed across her mind. She could not believe Coral, her own younger sister, had fought against her. Though she was pleased Coral lost the fight, Lara-Belle was enraged at Coral for granting the heroes, her "new companions", unneeded time. This puzzled Lara-Belle to a great extent. Yet she recalled how Melena fled the Pridelands and their youngest sister – she hazily recalled her name – fought a scarred lion and was defeated. So why did Coral choose to betray her in the Silent Forest, and once again at the Merswold Camp? She did not understand…

Lara-Belle's thoughts snapped back to the present, at the sound of a familiar, squeaky yet cracking voice, "Lara-Belle –Lara-Belle!"

Growling low, Lara-Belle asked the short goblin, frustrated, "What Creeper?"

Creeper explained, nervously, "Maleficent plans on bringing another villain back from the Netherworld. She's asked you to join her in the chamber, where the Black Cauldron is kept."

Lara-Belle grunted, "Fine. You can tell Maleficent I'll be there as soon as I can."

"Oh, Maleficent said it was urgent," said Creeper.

Lara-Belle snarled. She asked herself, muttering, "Why should Inotbe surprised?"

Confused, Creeper asked her, "I'm sorry. I didn'tquitecatch that."

Lara-Belle sighed heavily. She asked, coyly, "Have you discovered any new leads on my sister, Coral: the very same scarred lioness who 'attempted' to face me in mortal combat? Sadly, she lost that fight and we lost another comrade to stand against the heroes." She added, "Look at me now, Creeper! What word could possibly describe me, now that Coral's managed to ruin her reputation as a villainess?"

"Uh… a stealthy scarred lioness?" asked Creeper, attempting not to annoy Lara-Belle further.

Lara-Belle shook her head. She told the goblin, gruffly, "No, no, you great oaf! Stealthy isnot– good –enoughfor me." She paused. "I need a word that's – well-ordained and not too daft, like my sister Coral has been orwas, before she left the villains' order."

"Oh," said Creeper, stunned. "I didn't know the villains had an order."

"Yes," said Lara-Belle, snootily, "it's a work-in-progress, but not many villains have come to an agreement, let alone an understanding."

Returning to the matter at hand, Creeper repeated, "Maleficent still demands an audience with you, scarred lioness. She-"

"My name is Lara-Belle, you insolent goblin. You'd dowellto recall my name in the near future," growled Lara-Belle.

Creeper complained, "But it is Maleficent's orders that you come down to the chamber and speak with her-"

Lara-Belle yelled, as she leapt off the stone boulder, "All right, Creepy, if those are Maleficent's orders, thenI will come down to the chamber straight away!" She snarled at the short goblin. "Is that clear enough for you, Creepy?"

"It's Creeper!" snapped Creeper. "It's Creeper, you – you scarred lioness! Wait until the Horned King hears how poorly you have treated me!"

Lara-Belle chuckled in a wicked manner. "I highly doubt the Horned King treats you with respect." Finding she had the upper hand in the argument, Lara-Belle fell silent before Creeper had another chance to spat further words against her. After she fled the scene, from the cave entrance, Lara-Belle hardly looked back to see Creeper lagging behind her.

o-o-o

After a climb down a stone stairwell, Lara-Belle entered the circular stone chamber. The chamber was lit by torches, supported by metallic sconces. Sickly green flames licked the spiked tops of the torches, while their lights flickered and danced on the walls. In the centermost area of the chamber stood the Black Cauldron, engraved with a dark facial symbol on the front.

As Lara-Belle walked away from the stone stairwell, she saw many villains, villainesses, and their minions already gathered in a wide circle, a few feet away from the cauldron. Among those villains present were Sauron, the Horned King, Jareth, Maleficent, the Evil Queen, and Jadis, the White Witch. Maleficent stood before the crowd, but kept her distance from Sauron and the Horned King, who were busy finishing the green potion, now bubbling inside the Black Cauldron.

Upon facing the scarred lioness, Maleficent told her, coyly, "Why Lara-Belle, how quaint it is for you to enter this chamber. I trust Creeper has given you the message."

"With much disdain and regret," said Lara-Belle, tensely.

Enlightened, Maleficent replied rather coolly, "Ah! So I see you have been thinking about your sister's betrayal."

Stunned, Lara-Belle snarled, "How would you know what I was thinking about?"

Zira shushed her, "Hush Lara-Belle! The ceremony is about to begin."

"Yes indeed," said Maleficent, agreeing with the lioness. She told Lara-Belle, shrewdly, "As for you, Lara-Belle, we will discuss your new position after the newcomer villain has arrived at our –humbleabode."

"What do you mean?" asked Lara-Belle, confused now. She was shushed once more by Zira and another scarred lioness, who merely glared at her for a few seconds.

Rushing down the stone steps, Creeper cried out, "Sire – SIRE!" He continued to repeat these words until he rammed into Lara-Belle's back legs, sending her sprawling face-first across the stone floor.

In spite of recovering from the blow, Lara-Belle did her best to ignore the villainous cackles and minion laughter now entering the stone chamber. The cackles and laughter were soon stopped by Jadis, who silenced the crowd with a raised hand. Using the dead silence to his advantage, the Horned King raised above his head four useless trinkets: a tattered diary with a large hole in the center, a broken gold cup, a smashed-up locket with a gold shell, and a worn ring with serpents engraved on the edges, but also an empty area where a stone once fitted. He said a few words, before he released the four trinkets, sending them hurtling into the green potion.

The cauldron sizzled with new life. Bright beams jetted out from the Black Cauldron in thunderous waves for several minutes. Most of the villains and villainesses, except for Sauron and the Horned King, had to shield their eyes from the bright blasts of light. When the beams finally dimmed down, the villains and villainesses could see in the Horned King's hand what appeared to be a small infant, covered in blood. The grotesque creature had serpent nostrils and eyes, but the body of an infant boy, barely finding the will to breath. The Horned King passed the infant to Sauron, who covered the newborn in black cloths.

As he stared at the infant, Sauron murmured aloud, "Lord Voldemort, reborn again in the flesh, but not fully regenerated. His powers will grow with time."

Hoarsely, the infant Voldemort spoke to the dark Maiar, "Where am I?"

Sauron chuckled, wickedly. "You, my lord, are in the Merswold Camp, amongst villains who recall your latest defeat, caused by 'The Boy Who Lived'." He introduced himself in his usual dark, deep voice, "I am Sauron, the once Dark Lord of Mordor, the ruined black land of Middle-earth."

"So it was you that sent me here?" asked Voldemort in a hoarse, quiet tone.

Sauron nodded, but replied swiftly, "Yes, the Horned King and I have brought you back from the Netherworld." He spoke in wicked delight, "You, my lord, have unfinished business with 'The Boy Who Lived', as I have against the Ring-bearer who 'supposedly' destroyed my Ring of Power. He may have helped return the stars to the night sky, but he will not escape my grasp a second time."

Voldemort chuckled, softly. "We shall see, mi lord." He watched Sauron nod, before he passed Voldemort to the Evil Queen, who fled up a flight of stone stairs with the weakling infant.

Once the Evil Queen was out of earshot, Maleficent informed the villains and villainesses, "And now, our work begins again to find the Halfling Ring-bearer-"

"Baggins," said Sauron, finishing her sentence for her.

"Yes, of course, Baggins – the same Ring-bearer who-"

Lara-Belle interrupted Maleficent in mid-sentence, "Yes, yes, yes. We've heard this part a dozen times already. Sauron, the Evil Queen, and yourself, Maleficent, want the Ring-bearer, Frodo Baggins, dead." Upon using the hobbit's full name, Lara-Belle heard various gasps and complaints from around the room. Confused, Lara-Belle asked, "Is that not the Halfling's name?"

"And for that, Lara-Belle, you will assist the Evil Queen with finding ways to bring Lord Voldemort's strength and power back to him," said Maleficent.

Lara-Belle stood shocked, "Me – why me?" She retaliated soon afterwards, "I just got into a fierce fight against my sister, Coral."

"Which is why this task has been granted to you, Lara-Belle," said Jareth, coolly. He added, smoothly, "You know, I did hear a few weasels call the scarred lions and, shall we say, scarred lionesses the nickname 'scar-re'. Now, doesn't that sound like a fascinating alias for you to be called?"

Ignoring Jareth, Lara-Belle asked Maleficent, "When do I start?"

"Right now, if you wish," said Maleficent, calmly.

Lara-Belle nodded, "Right." She left the stone chamber without saying two words to any of the villains and villainesses, let alone their minions.

Stunned, the same scarred lioness, that shushed Lara-Belle, faced Maleficent. She protested: "You're giving that job to Lara-Belle? That scarred lioness can hardly control herself, let alone her temper-"

"Enough!" exclaimed Maleficent, testily. Once the room fell still, Maleficent told the villains and villainesses present in the room, "The stars falling worked perfectly to our plans. We have succeeded at bringing forth two powerful allies from the Netherworld, but have also struck another burden upon Mr. Baggins. His heart will be his adversary, until he finds a resolution and sets his heart free. Until then, we have the upper hand." Facing Sauron, Maleficent asked him, aloud for all to hear, "My lord Sauron, when will you be ready to leave?"

Sauron announced, "When you are ready, mistress." Just as he grabbed the Black Cauldron's edge, the Horned King grabbed his wrist.

The Horned King exclaimed, "No! The Black Cauldron and I shall remain here at this camp, until such a time comes to unleash your master, my lord Sauron."

Sauron paused. Despite becoming momentarily stunned, Sauron nodded in agreement. He told the skeletal king with fiery eyes, "Send for Morgoth, Ungoliant, and her daughter Shelob on my command. Understand, my king?"

The Horned King replied, "As you wish." A tense silence passed between him and Sauron, moments before Sauron left him alone before the Black Cauldron.

Before Maleficent left the chamber, she informed him, "Have the next potion ready. I believe that now is the time to invite an old friend to this limbo world."

The Horned King sneered, almost gleefully, "And I know just the one to send back."

"Good. Then see to it that our plans are not entirely foiled, before you unleash this new fury upon the land," said Maleficent, sounding pleased with herself.

"I did not say this villain was a new foe. Perhaps you recall his tale from legends of old," said the Horned King.

Maleficent bowed before him, and said last, "Very well. Then I shall leave you to your work." She looked back once at the Horned King, before cackling up the stone stairwell that led to her underground throne room.

Chapter 2: 1: Radagast the Brown

Chapter by Aria Breuer (Aria_Breuer)

Chapter Text

Chapter One:

Radagast the Brown

Hours Earlier…

Frodo Baggins looked back to see if anyone had followed him. He was yards away from the Merswold Camp and, already, he felt as if he were being watched. His evening flight from the villains, who resided at the encampment, left his body bruised, beaten, and worn down from exhaustion. The small red wound, forcefully given by the witch Maleficent, pained his heart. He was lucky to be alive.

Frodo, due to his Fallohide ancestry from his Brandybuck mother, had lighter-than-usual skin. Like most hobbits, Frodo had thick, curly brown hair. Gandalf once described Frodo, in a letter given to the hobbit at Bree-town, as "taller than some and fairer than most, a cleft in his chin: perky chap with a bright eye". Somehow, Gandalf's description of Frodo seemed close to accurate.

Frodo started. Two pairs of leather-clad spiked boots crunched against the barren, reddish-brown landscape. The same dread he felt in the underground chasms of the Merswold Camp resurfaced inside him, like a ravenous wolf. Yet the crude sounds drew closer with each pressing footfall. Unwilling to risk being seen by another enemy, he fled behind an egg-shaped boulder. The advancing steps reached the area in minutes.

The boots belonged to two orcs with grotesque features. Both were clad in armor made from scrapped leather, iron, and chewed animal bones. Frodo only needed to glimpse at their armor and weapons to know these orcs were not from Mordor.

The first orc – a few inches shorter than his "travelling companion" – carried two double-bladed axes in each gloved hand. A quiver rested against his back, filled to the brim with spiked-tipped arrows and a long bow. The second orc – taller and heavier than the first – carried on his belt a broad sword, kept inside a tattered sheath. His left hand never left the knife, sheathed on his belt, as he and his comrade slowed their pace.

Frodo stayed hidden behind the boulder as the two orcs spoke. Neither sounded pleased with having to patrol the areas outside their encampment. From their muffled conversation – much of it droned with how both orcs took a wrong turn and was now miles away from where they first began walking – Frodo eventually overhead the two orcs mention him… or rather his name.

"We don't have time for this, Knûldûz. We must go back and warn the others. If Maleficent hasn't completed her task…"

The shorter orc was grabbed by the taller orc, Knûldûz. His mood was already off, due to his "comrade" taking the beaten track away from their small encampment. The taller orc told the shorter orc, gruffly, "Listen up, you. If Maleficent lost that Halfling, our master will be most displeased. He'll be glad to rid the Limbo World of Sauron's treachery." He added, "As for you Mârzog, I suggest you keep your place."

Glad to be released from Knûldûz's grip, Mârzog inquired, "What do you mean? We're not returning to the camp."

"No," said Knûldûz. "If that Halfling – Baggins he was called – shows up in these parts, we'll have the pleasure of delivering him to Maleficent."

"Finding that Halfling is a bad idea," said Mârzog, shaking his head as if to shoo the thought away.

"Why? Since when have you come soft, Mârzog?" asked Knûldûz.

Shaking the thought out of his head, Mârzog implied, "Right. We'll find that Halfling, before he finds us."

Frodo watched from his hiding spot as the two orcs left the area to finish their scouting. Once the two orcs were out of sight, Frodo heaved a sigh of relief. Worried about being captured by orcs or scarred lions and lionesses, Frodo waited a couple of seconds before fleeing from behind the boulder.

Frodo was a mile or two away from the Merswold Camp, when he spotted vast snow-capped mountains bordering the reddish-brown landscape. Plant and animal life soon appeared in great abundance. He was more than relieved to see greenery, after a harrowing night in the underground parts of the villains' encampment. In the skies above his head, Frodo saw what appeared to be winged dragons both large and small. Just as he saw a family of nomadic hobbits gathering firewood, Frodo felt his breath speeding up on him. A vast array of colors crossed in rapid amounts over his eyesight. Just as the hobbit family and a few dragons caught a glimpse of the travelling hobbit, Frodo fell into unconsciousness.

Time Unclear, Conscious and Unconscious...

A male voice broke through the dampening void. "He hit his head fairly hard, Mum…"

"Should we bring him more herbs?" asked a female voice.

"Here… take this to your father," said what sounded like a mother's voice.

"Is there anything I can do? I know a good amount of mushrooms that can cure his head wound…"

The motherly voice shushed other voices. "Radagast, you may bring as many herbs as you can find…"

The brown-robed wizard lit up. "I'll go prepare the herbs and mushrooms for his soup…" Before another protest was made, the wizard fled into the kitchen to prepare the meal.

"Hang in there…" the male voice sounded familiar to Frodo.

Frodo awoke with a blank stare. How long had he been like this? Worse, why couldn't he remember his past, the Shire, his friends… he hardly recalled their names in the voided areas of his memory. Opening his eyes, Frodo could see his wounds were dressed on his chest, arms, and legs. Even though he couldn't see the smaller bandage wrapped on his forehead, Frodo guessed the fabric was made from soft silk. To his surprise, the bandages felt warm and comfortable to the touch. However, his head and the rest of his body felt sharp pains now and then, leaving him feeling worn down. He wondered how many days he had been in an amnesiac stupor.

As he attempted to sit up, but to no avail, Frodo noticed he was in a narrow bedroom of a wizard's brown house. There were an assortment of herbs, plants, and even live animals roaming at their own free will. Rodents clambered about inside clay bowls and pots, while the mice spent time running from one hole to the next. The bed Frodo had been laying on was made from soft moss, leaves, and other comforting greenery. As he moved the thick, brown sheet off of him, Frodo overheard a loud, skittish male voice, coming up a root-covered stairway. From the open door, Frodo could see a wizard decked in brown robes and a wizard's hat. From his appearance, Frodo had a feeling this wizard reminded him of someone he had met on his journey. Frodo at least recalled the name Gandalf.

Before Frodo could attempt to sit up again, the elderly wizard in the brown robes prompted, "Oh no! You mustn't get up. Your wounds still need tending. And you, my friend, will need some food and water." He added, as a manner of advice, "Always begin meals slowly, especially after you've been beaten up by villains."

Feeling his forehead, which now carried a splitting headache, Frodo laid back down on the bed. He asked as grogginess swept over him, leaving him almost breathless, "Where am I?" Facing the wizard, Frodo asked aloud, "Who are you?"

"Oi! My name," remembered the brown wizard, "How silly of me to forget introductions." He then said a moment later, "Radagast the Brown is my name. You must be Frodo Baggins."

Recalling glimpses of his time at the Evenshire Camp and home in Middle-earth, Frodo asked the wizard, "Does everyone know my name?"

Radagast shook his head. "I'm afraid not… unless you decide to count those sniveling talking animals attheirheadquarters. I'm sure they can fill you in on recent details."

Remembering talking animals, such as Amor and Jezebel, Frodo decided to ask the brown wizard, "The animals have a headquarters?"

Radagast nodded in approval. "Yes and a very unusual group, those creatures. Always thinking they own the technology, but then: who really owns that advanced technology, I'll never know." Turning to Frodo, Radagast told the hobbit, "I'll bring you some warm food and tea, the best I have." Before Frodo could say another word, Radagast darted from the room, back down the stairs.

The memories Frodo had forgotten slowly returned to him. He remembered the Shire, his friends, losing his parents on the eve of his twelfth birthday. Other memories came back to him, even the recent memories he had. Some memories included the time he spent at the Evenshire Camp, the fateful meeting between him and Gandalf and how ignorant he had been of worlds outside Middle-earth, seeing red dragons for the first time in the Limbo World, teaming with two Fellowships that he cared for, his longing to see both Fellowships unite as one. Then he recalled Coral and how she saved his life more than once on their journey to the Merswold Camp, to free the worlds from the villains' grasp.

Frodo's mind returned to the present when Radagast brought the hobbit a wooden tray. The tray was packed with food and glasses of hot water. Frodo, to Radagast's surprise, gobbled down the food almost too quickly. He nearly choked on the food as he ate, but gladly took large sips of water to help ease his mind and his appetite.

Out of curiosity, before he forgot, Frodo asked the brown wizard, "How long have I been out?"

"Two days, lad," answered Radagast. "You looked like a mess when we brought you inside my house. You were yelling in words I will not repeat." He added, with some reluctance, "You were talking in your sleep about a lass named Maia, whoever she is."

Feeling cheery, Frodo remembered as he spoke, "Maia is the young girl… in my dreams. I hardly know if she exists, or isn't born yet, but she keeps calling me. She's asking me to find her."

"Ah!" said Radagast in understanding. "You came here to find her."

Frodo nodded. "Is it wrong that I came to look for her?"

Radagast shrugged. "A girl enters your strangest dreams and thoughts, leading you on a wild goose chase." He spoke quickly, before Frodo could interrupt, "If I were you, lad, I'd give up on this dream of yours and focus more on the present."

"What?" asked Frodo, "I came all this way to find answers… not just about this… dream girl…" He heaved a regretful sigh. Turning away from the thoughts, Frodo added in a truthful voice, "Actually, I also came to find some answers, about what Aslan said… if you know who Aslan is."

Radagast nodded. "I know him, lad."

Frodo explained further, "Well, I overheard Maleficent and the other villains talk about me… how Aslan may have sent me on a quest to defeat all the villains. It means I'm supposed to be a… a savior to the heroes."

Radagast nodded again. "Yes."

Bewildered, Frodo asked, "Why didn't anyone inform me sooner? Why wait until now?"

This time, Radagast shook his head. "We may never know, Frodo. Aslan has his way of things. Always foreseeing what will happen."

Frodo lowered his head. As regret filled his eyes, Frodo said, "I am not that kind of a hero. I couldn't be. I only carried a corrupted ring to Mordor."

"Yet you helped save Middle-earth from Sauron's grasp. I call that a feat on your part," said Radagast.

"I didn't destroy the Ring, Radagast sir," said Frodo, perplexed.

"No, but do you remember how you ended up carrying the One Ring to Mordor? Do you remember the council that took place in Rivendell? I believe, in order to remember, you must travel backwards in your own memories, before you can move onwards," said Radagast.

"What does that mean?"

Before Frodo could speak another word, Radagast told the hobbit to eat before the food became cold. As Radagast left the room, Frodo's memories continued to return to him at a rapid pace. Once his mind rushed to the Council of Elrond, Frodo recalled the words he spoke that day, before noon approached:

'I will take the Ring,' he said, 'though I do not know the way.'

Frodo's mind pondered over his own words.Itookthe Ring to Mordor, Frodo asked himself in thought. Was it possible he only meant to take the One Ring to the Mountain of Fire? Was there any loopholes telling him that he was meant to destroy the Ring? However, he hadn't recalled ever mentioning once about destroying the Ring, only carrying it to Mordor as a messenger would deliver a message. Caught up in his own daze, Frodo nearly forgot to keep eating his food.

Yet the thought persisted all too well. If he was supposed to only carry the Ring to Mordor, then that would have meant Gollum – Sméagol was destined to destroy the very ring he hated and loved. It was a wandering thought about Gollum, yet it seemed to hold its purpose, alongside the afterthought that Gollum – Sméagol could be suffering his own curse in the next life. Then why did the girl of his dreams seem a likely comparison to the creature named Gollum, and if Sméagol was suffering the same fate as the girl in his dreams?

Shaking the thought off, Frodo continued his meal in peace. The wounds continued to pain him from time to time. Still, he allowed Radagast and the nomadic hobbit woman named Lucinda Lightfoot, who had a daughter named Jacinth and a son named Colton, or Cole for short, to tend and dress his wounds.

As Frodo continued his miraculous recovery, while trusting Radagast and Lucinda's family to help heal him, Frodo realized he was getting nowhere with following his strange dreams. Just when he thought the dreams would cease come his realization, they only strengthened, bringing Frodo into a chain of strange dreams involving the girl named Maia and the white towers, which appeared to be near the Grey Havens of Middle-earth or beyond the sea in the West.

Chapter 3: 2: The Golden Key

Chapter by Aria Breuer (Aria_Breuer)

Chapter Text

Chapter Two:

The Golden Key

Two Days Ago…

Hours flew like minutes as Scrat, clutching his acorn for dear life, fled down the underground tunnels, beneath the Merswold Camp. The villains, villainesses, and their minions hardly paid attention to this prehistoric grey squirrel, for news of nine heroes invading their camp alarmed them. This gave Scrat a distinct advantage, even though he was spotted more than once by scarred lions and lionesses.

As he rested in a narrow dark tunnel, Scrat overheard seven voices speak amongst themselves of their missing companion. One of the voices was female, while the rest were male. He tapped the acorn for reassurance, before bounding out of the tunnel and entering an underground catacomb-like chamber. He was a few yards away from the group of seven heroes – to whom the voices belonged – when he watched, in alarm, as they darted out of the room. Unwilling to stay in the dismal chamber, Scrat dashed towards the tunnel where the seven heroes fled.

During his flight after the seven heroes, Scrat saw the villains, villainesses, and their minions become distracted by a high-pitched sound, resonating only inside their minds. He watched the villains, villainesses, and their minions collapse on the stone floor, before resuming his chase after the seven heroes, who were now yards ahead of him. Upon reaching the first cavernous tunnel, Scrat stopped for a few minutes to catch his breath.

When he, at last, bounded outside the cave, Scrat breathed in the fresh morning air. Relieved to be back on the surface, in time to greet dawn's first light, Scrat giddily held up the acorn as a sign of victory for his grand escape from the villains' underground lair. This victory would not last long. He had seconds to enjoy the victory when a red blur flurried past him. Opening his eyes, Scrat's victorious look melted away as he looked at his paws, where the acorn had rested. Screaming out in frustration and resentment, Scrat searched the villains' encampment for the red blur. The search ended all too quickly, as Scrat found the blur moving speedily westwards. With his focus all on reclaiming his lost acorn, Scrat gave chase after the red blur. He narrowly rammed into the scarred lioness' hobbit companion, the same hobbit he met in the deep, dark tunnel, on his flight out of the Merswold Camp.

Hours Later…

By midday, Coral and her six companions reached the village of Prevale. Once they reunited with the peasants and healers, the seven heroes rested and ate a warm meal. Before dusk approached the horizon, the seven heroes were met by an elderly man, eager to speak to them:

"Ah!"cried the elderly man, getting the group's attentions. "Would this be the heroes that saved the villagers of Prevale?"

"I amnota hero!" announced Jack Sparrow, the pirate captain with the raven-haired dreadlocks and tricorn pirate's hat. "Neither am I planning on becoming one, long after I return to my ship!"

Coral snapped at him, "Jack, show some courtesy." Facing the elderly man, Coral replied, "You'll have to forgive my friend. He appears to be in need of rum…again."

Joining the conversation, Edmund Pevensie asked the elderly man, "Who are you?"

The elderly peasant replied, aloud, "It is not who I am, but what you seven seek: a return to the heroes' main encampment, here in this limbo world Peradus."

Recovering from the startle, Coral answered, "That's right… for my companions." She added with reluctance, "From what I've heard, re-entering the Silent Forest is much harder than leaving."

"That is right, young lioness," said the elderly man.

Confused, Harry Potter asked the elderly man, "What do you mean? I thought the way back would be easy…"

Coral interrupted. "Harry, nothing in this limbo world is ever the same when coming or leaving places. Usually they are on most worlds, but not on limbo worlds… or so I've heard." Ignoring Kovu's whispers amongst the Emperor Penguin Mumble and the furry grey-and-white creature Gurgi, Coral turned her gaze to the elderly man and asked, almost out of boredom, "What new obstacles are in the Silent Forest?" She burst in outrage, "We're not encountering the toad named Fisher, are we?"

The elderly man told the seven heroes. "Nonsense, but word has it the Silent Forest now has both animals and people, delighted to stop weary travelers with their riddles. Solve those riddles and you may return to the heroes' encampment, alive to tell the tale."

Harry announced, sarcastically, "Brilliant! That's all we'll need to slow us down."

Edmund asked the elderly man, "Anything else we need to know?"

The elderly man answered, "I hear tell of a woodsman who has a golden key. I believe that key will come in handy one day, when you're traveling. Who knows? The key may help unlock a chest of sorts…" he whispered out loud, "but you didn't hear that from me." He then left the seven heroes alone to their thoughts.

Jack perked up with new interest. "A chest you say?"

"No!" cried Coral, glaring at the pirate captain.

Edmund shrugged. "Traveling back through the Silent Forest would be just as dangerous, as when we left the woodland."

Curious, Harry asked his companions, "Do you think Frodo made it back to the Evenshire Camp safely, the way he ran off?"

Coral replied, "With luck, he will find another way back." She shook her head. "No, your return journey lies through the Silent Forest." She added, fast, "It's the only route to reach the Evenshire Camp, other than the bay. I myself have traveled back and forth through the Silent Forest, so I am well aware of new dangers that lie on our road." She paused. "If the peddler man is right, then we're doomed if we cannot solve those riddles."

When the seven heroes fell silent, Coral noticed the sad looks across Mumble and Gurgi's faces. Gurgi, especially, looked torn between finding out the fate of their hobbit companion, Frodo Baggins, and returning to the Evenshire Camp, where he knew he would be in trouble for traveling with Frodo and his companions. Before Coral had a chance to speak to Gurgi, in spite of how much the creature annoyed her, she was met by Kovu, who spoke long and hard with Coral over her decision to leave their companionship. After some considerable convincing, Coral became reluctant about entering the Evenshire Camp. At the same time, she could not help but think the choice had been made for her, which also meant there was a chance of her reuniting with her eldest sister, Melena. As sleep crept across her thoughts, Coral wondered how her elder sister, Lara-Belle, was handling her betrayal.

Later that Evening…

Miles away from the village of Prevale, Scrat found Scratte resting by a large watering hole. Sneaking towards the prehistoric, flying red squirrel, Scrat perked up in delight at seeing his acorn, nestled by a flat stone. Just as Scrat leaped towards the acorn, he watched in fright as Scratte grabbed the nut and darted off. Frustrated, even after his short crash landing, Scrat darted after Scratte, in hopes of finally retrieving the acorn.

The two squirrels continued their chase well into the night. Before sunrise, the two squirrels collapsed inches away from each other. Just as sleep fell across their eyes, Scrat and Scratte noticed the acorn lying on the sandy ground between them.

That Same Morning…

Once the seven heroes roused and ate a warm breakfast, offered to them by the peasants of Prevale, they grabbed their packs and weapons. After farewells were said, the seven companions left the peasants' campsite. They spent the next couple of hours walking around the burned down village. Towards noon, after a cold lunch, the seven companions resumed their journey across the Harburg Plains, while agreeing to avoid the valley. By mid-afternoon, the seven heroes caught a glimpse of the Silent Forest's borderline, before they stopped to rest and set-up camp. They remained partially silent throughout the evening, only speaking a few hushed words, for minutes at a time, to each other.

On the second day, after eating a quick breakfast, the seven heroes continued their journey back to the Evenshire Camp. As the Silent Forest drew nearer, Coral noticed her six companions spoke frequently of who they would reunite with, and what they would do, the second they returned to the heroes' campsite. Although the morning proved tranquil and filled with serenity, Coral doubted they were alone on the plains. Sniffing the air, Coral soon picked up on a foul stench, hidden in a pile of boulders. She charged into the pile, with Kovu racing in after her. When the others caught up to the dark-furred lion and scarred lioness, they found Kovu and Coral climb out of the boulder pile with three orc-scouts. The orc-scouts muttered to themselves in anguish, until Kovu and Coral caught them off-guard:

"Who sent you?" asked Kovu.

Coral intervened, barking at the three scouts: "He asked you a question!"

"Coral!" cried Edmund, stopping Coral from yelling further. "You're on our side, remember?"

Turning his gaze to the three orc-scouts, as they chuckled, Harry asked, "Who do you work for?"

One of the orc-scouts answered, warningly, "Maleficent. And now you heroes will pay for treason. She'll find the Halfling." He paused. Cracking a wicked smirk, the orc-scout told the heroes, "You heroes will pay."

A second orc-scout spoke, pointing an index finger at Coral, "You, scarred lioness! Lara-Belle spoke of you, of your treachery. She'll come after you, looking for blood. You wait and see…" He was interrupted by a low horn cry, ringing on the plains.

The seven heroes' distraction was enough for the orc-scouts to flee the scene, but not before fighting the heroes first. Before Coral could catch the orc-scouts, Kovu ran in front of her, blocking her passage while reminding Coral what side she had chosen. Another horn bellowed deep across the Harburg Plains, sending chills up Coral's spine. Realizing a mass of villains, villainesses, and minions were charging towards the Silent Forest, yards away from where the heroes now stood, Kovu led Coral back to their companions. Reunited, the seven heroes dashed across the Harburg Plains, using whatever strength they kindled from their rests. They arrived at the Silent Forest minutes before noon, where they fled inside without a moment's thought.

o-o-o

Close to noon, the seven companions found a small opening, surrounded by bushes. There, while Kovu kept watch of their makeshift campsite, they ate lunch and rested for a brief time. Much of this time was spent questioning what riddles the people and animals would ask them, as they traversed through the Silent Forest. When they felt rested enough to travel, the seven heroes packed up and continued their venture.

As the group walked through the forest, Mumble noticed how different the shrubs, bushes, trees, and even the shafts of the light from the treetops appeared. From this, he nearly thought they had come to a new wooded area. Coral's reminder brought Mumble's thoughts back to reality, as he and his companions came to realize they were still in the Silent Forest. Coral was the least surprised, but kept her thoughts to herself.

Tired of the eerie silence that surrounded the group, Jack Sparrow ran on ahead, leaving the others little choice except to track the pirate captain down. They found Jack minutes later inside a large glen, where a woodsman, using a worn silver axe with golden etchings, was busy chopping logs. The woodsman – blind in both eyes – had wavy gold hair, pale skin, and wore forester's clothing. A large wooden cart, which was half-filled with chopped logs, stood inches behind the woodsman.

When the others didn't speak, Coral asked the woodsman, "Excuse me, sir, but you wouldn't happen to be the woodsman we heard about?"

"I am he," said the blind woodsman, with candor.

"Really?" asked Harry, now confused.

Coral muttered low to Kovu, "The old man said there'd be a woodsman. He said nothing about him being blind."

"Ooh, ooh – look!" cried Gurgi, pointing to his companions a small gold key, nestled next to the blind woodsman's leather brown hat.

Edmund asked the blind woodsman, politely, "Pardon me, sir, but is that a golden key?"

"That it be," said the blind woodsman.

Coral asked further, "So would that said key unlock a certain said chest? If so, how would we obtain said key?"

The blind woodsman perked up at this, "I'm glad you asked." He explained to the seven heroes, "If you want the key, then you must guess my name. Since you have asked, you will place your head on this log." He showed, with his axe, a large log with two wooden branches, acting almost like supports on a guillotine. "Your friends will be left to answer the riddle. If they have not guessed my name, before I have chopped all these logs into firewood, then I will have your head."

Having second thoughts, Coral thought up a quick excuse. "Oh well. I guess we'll have to look elsewhere for the way back…"

Harry stopped Coral in her tracks, as he said, "No. I think we can solve this riddle."

Noticing Kovu following her, Coral asked Harry, nervously, "What? Harry, have you gone mad? You don't need to do this-" Seeing the others in agreement with Harry, Coral reluctantly approached the large log, where the blind woodsman 'secured' her.

In the passing minutes, as Coral awaited her rescue, the six heroes guessed the blind woodsman's name. Jack Sparrow gave up after guessing about a dozen pirate names, before he sat down on a log to examine his compass. Kovu spouted several names from the Pridelands, but was wrong each time. As the blind woodsman chopped the next set of logs, Mumble and Gurgi announced names from their homelands in unison. They were both wrong. As more logs were chopped, Harry and Edmund eventually spoke up:

"Look, why don't you give us a clue? That could help us," asked Harry.

"It might. I do find thisenthralling, many times over," said the blind woodsman. "No one has ever guessed my name.No!Not once." He added, "Although, it is a surprise you have brought a scarred lioness. Myfirstkill inside this forest." He was well aware of Coral's nervous cry, as he chopped yet another log.

Finding little choice, Edmund and Harry listed off names to the blind woodsman. Each time they found themselves wrong. Eventually, a thought dawned on Kovu. Recollecting a conversation in the Evenshire Camp, Kovu announced with confidence towards the blind woodsman:

"Is your name Romeo or Juliet?" asked Kovu.

Following the many stunned expressions, the blind woodsman told the dark-furred lion, "You have guessed my name correctly, lion." As he released Coral from her torture prison, the blind woodsman told the seven companions, "Take the golden key and be off with you. I have more logs to chop."

Just as Edmund grabbed the golden key, Coral asked the blind woodsman, "You won't speak of this incident to anyone?"

"Your secret is safe with me," said the blind woodsman. He warned, "Know that should our paths cross again, I will not keep your secret safe a second time."

Coral nodded. "Then let's hope we do not meet again." She followed the others out of the glen.

o-o-o

Throughout the afternoon, the seven heroes encountered various people and animals. Each person and animal had a riddle that was tough to solve. Unlike the blind woodsman, every time the seven companions gave up on answering the riddle, they were sent to another part of the Silent Forest, yards away from where they had started. Harry and Edmund, finding no other explanation, admitted to their companions the forest must be enchanted.

Noticing dusk advance over the horizon, the seven heroes stopped in an opening, yards away from a fallen log. This log looked familiar, but Gurgi decided against pressing the matter. Unsure where they were in the Silent Forest, the companions debated the issue for a good long while. As Edmund took the second watch, Kovu regrouped with the others as they slept peacefully.

Meanwhile…

Evening passed blissfully across the world of Disney Castle. In the palace, King Mickey, after receiving a strange summons, made his way to the library. King Mickey, better known as Mickey Mouse, like most mice living at Disney Castle, was an anthropomorphic mouse with black fur, rounded ears, and a black tail. He wore white gloves, a zipped jacket, pants, and big yellow shoes. The jacket and pants were decked in the colors gold, white, red, and black. In the library, King Mickey noticed a hardbound book lying on top of a writing desk. Wondering why the book was not on a shelf, Mickey approached the desk to investigate. As he examined the hardbound book, a sheet of parchment fell loosely from the book's pages. Setting the book down, Mickey picked up the parchment from the floor. His curiosity grew as he read the parchment's letter, written in a very fine, inked handwriting:

To the King of Disney Castle:

One task is finished. Another is yet to set forth.

Upon reading my summons, you must be aware your peoples' safety, and the safety of others from many worlds, is at a great risk. Danger has not left the limbo worlds. I fear drastic measures will need to be taken, in order to avoid an onslaught of villains, heading our way. The Evenshire Camp is heading into dangerous times. The Universes need you and whatever assistance is required.

Time grows short. Make your preparations as swiftly as possible.

Signed,

Aslan
The Great Lion

P.S. The stars fell from the night sky, but have been restored. The "Key" restored one-half of the worlds. The Hobbit, Frodo Baggins, restored the other half.

King Mickey asked, as he read the very last sentence, "Who?" Re-reading the letter a second time, Mickey told himself, "This can't be right! Sora, Donald, and Goofy restored the worlds! Unless… hmm…" After a moment's pause, Mickey shook off the thought. Peering at the hardbound book and the letter, Mickey said to himself, "Well, if danger's lurking elsewhere… no. This cannot be right…"

Mickey continued pondering over the letter well into the early hours of nightfall. At that point, he decided to wait until morning, when the inhabitants inside the palace were awake. He knew then he would have a chance to ask his friends and the Queen about the mysterious letter and the hardbound book.

Chapter 4: 3: Meeting a Dragonoid

Chapter by Aria Breuer (Aria_Breuer)

Chapter Text

Chapter Three:

Meeting a Dragonoid

Frodo slept peacefully throughout the evening. The first dream he entered proved to him the girl from his strange dreams wasn't going to leave anytime soon:

He was on the same elven ship with his uncle Bilbo Baggins, heading for the Undying Lands in the West. Frodo looked over the edge of the boat. When he did, he saw how crystal clear the water was, as if it were rippled glass. He watched as silver fish sprang up from the water, only to splash the ocean surface with their fins and tails. The silver fish seemed happy and at peace with nature. For a time, all seemed well.

"Isn't the sea grand, my lad?" asked Bilbo, who sounded cheerier than ever.

Frodo nodded in agreement. He spoke, "Almost as if this was the right path in my life."

"Do you remember the Shire?" asked a near-distant familiar voice, reminding Frodo of his gardener Samwise Gamgee.

As Bilbo rambled, Frodo's thoughts returned to the Shire, his friends and their families. He had to stop thinking about home. There wasn't anything that could be done to stop his decision to enter the Undying Lands…

"What made you leave?" asked another familiar voice, feminine this time.

Turning towards the ship, Frodo noticed Bilbo was gone. In his stead was the same hazel blue-green eyed young woman, with locks of dark brown hair. Frodo did his best to remain calm as he greeted her:

"What brought you here this time?" asked Frodo.

Maia chuckled. "Did you think that, in spite of what people will say, I would just leave?"

Frodo shook his head. "No." He then asked, "What are you doing here?"

"I've noticed you've given up trying to find me. It's all right. I'm used to being unimportant," said Maia, almost too casually.

Given her some encouragement, Frodo asked, "When will this task take place?"

"And this is why you need to be watchful. No, I'm not born yet, but you'll have to remain mindful for the time being. If you are watchful, then you might witness something grand, something new," said Maia.

"And that is?" asked Frodo, curious.

"Just keep an open mind. You never know what will happen," said Maia, giving her last piece of advice. Just as Frodo fell into the black, Maia screamed, "Frodo, wake up!"

The second Frodo awoke, his heart pained him. His head still ached, but not as bad as the previous day. Before Frodo fell back to sleep, Radagast approached him.

"How bad does your chest ache, Frodo?" Radagast asked.

Avoiding asking a question back, Frodo said, "Ever since Maleficent touched my chest, my heart has been aching non-stop, it seems. I feel as if I was two people at once, yet sometimes I know who it is that calls me. She isn't born yet, but…"

Radagast shushed him. "If this dream girl of yours is bugging you, you can always tell her to stop."

Frodo shook his head. "I don't think it works that way."

As Radagast spoke words that Frodo hardly remembered, Frodo fell right back to sleep. The second dream he entered felt like two dreams at once:

Hours seemed to pass without cause. How long had he been inside these wide cemented tunnels, he could not say. The dimmed light kept lingering, except for the crevices in the ceiling that shone moonlight. He could not turn back now. He had to find her before… he stopped mid-step due to a large swarm of bats circling the area. The bats soon flew out of the sewer tunneled maze through a large, hollow crack in the ceiling. He did not see the crevice in the ceiling, other than realizing the sewer tunnels' ceiling was several stories above his head. He looked back once, thinking someone was following him. The tunnels remained dark and dismal as ever, which left him once again with feelings of loneliness.

Continuing his flight through the maze of cement tunnels, he soon arrived at a makeshift antechamber, filled with tunnels that circled the chamber in every direction. All he knew about these wide, dismal tunnels is they stood above his head or near to the ground. He was not out of this sewer tunnel maze yet… he had to reach the surface… he had to find a way to save her…

Frodo fell back into the billowing darkness. From the darkness, he heard the low rumble of fiery blasts and streaming lava…

Sammath Naur, the cavern leading into Mount Doom's cone, loomed ever higher in the distance. The heat was excruciating. The burden remained a strong presence. With each struggling step he took, the One Ring's hold on him made the climb ever wearisome. He could not stop climbing. He had to finish the task, or fail if Sauron regained possession of the Ring of Power. He could not risk failing the Free Peoples of Middle-earth, his companions who, alongside him, together formed the Fellowship of the Ring, and his Uncle Bilbo.

He reached the first wide, flat stone when a gangly creature leaped down from a tall rock. This gangly creature, known more as Gollum, fueled with determination and a desire to take the One Ring for his own, threw him back towards the flat stone. Before he had a chance to recover from the blow to the back of his head, Gollum grabbed his neck and strangled him…

Frodo snapped his eyes open. His right hand automatically pressed against his chest, as a twinge of pain stung his heart. His third finger also felt a stab of pain, as if the bite wound caused by Gollum had resurfaced. Once the fit had passed, Frodo sat up slowly on the bed of moss. He was greeted by Radagast, who brought up another wooden tray filled with food. Frodo looked queasily at the sight of the food.

"I'll let you eat in peace," said Radagast.

Frodo said, "Thank you… for everything you've done."

Radagast nodded. "You're quite welcome." He took his leave.

After Frodo finished his breakfast, the hobbit Lucinda came to check on his wounds. Radagast, upon bringing an unexpected guest into the bedroom, took the wooden tray back downstairs.

The guest was a male red dragon-like creature with scales and a tail. However, the dragon appeared to be a descendant of dragons and humans alike. The human features about the dragon was his neck, the way he stood and walked upright in a natural poise, and did not have any wings or spikes. The features that made the male dragon a dragon were his eyes, which were cat-like and yellowish-green in the irises. Frodo at first thought of Bilbo's dragon Smaug. Taking a second look at the male dragon-like creature proved him wrong.

The male dragon spoke in a semi-fiery tone, "Radagast invited me to come visit you." Turning to a wooden chair, the male dragon-like creature asked, "Mind if I sit down?"

Frodo shook his head.

Once seated, the male dragon introduced himself, "For introduction's sake, I am Parker Dooley. I am a dragonoid, if you wondered about my breed as a dragon. You must be Frodo Baggins. Word spreads fast in these cavernous halls.

Frodo spoke, hoarsely, "I am." Clearing his throat, Frodo said, "You speak, too?"

Parker chuckled, "All creatures gifted can speak, Frodo. I even heard of animals speaking in Middle-earth. I assumed you were used to hearing creatures talk."

"I guess I forgot," said Frodo. "Why did you come to see me?"

Parker explained the dire news to the hobbit. "Radagast mentioned you missed your friends. He said they were gathering at the Evenshire Camp, but it is a trap set by the villains. They want this to happen – have every hero gathered – so they can start their war."

Realizing the danger, Frodo said, "I need to go to them."

Parker stopped Frodo from moving. "You need to rest. Your wounds still need tending."

"If Sam, Merry, and Pippin are at the Evenshire Camp, then they're in danger. I must go to them. They need my help…"

Parker intervened. "Frodo Baggins!" In a calmer, stern voice, he added, "You can't go anywhere while you're healing. The heroes will have to wait."

"How do I get to them in time?" asked Frodo, still concerned.

"You just answered your own question," said Parker. Seeing Frodo's confusion, Parker explained further, "We use a portal to backtrack in time. Since your friends are arriving at the campsite today – sorry, but I looked ahead in Radagast's mirror – we'll have to find the right portal and jump through it."

"Radagast has a mirror, similar to Galadriel's mirror?" asked Frodo, stunned at this new information.

"Did you hear me? We have to jump through a portal," said Parker, his mouth nearly spouting flames.

Lucinda badgered the red dragonoid, "Parker, please don't send flames in here. You keep that business outside these walls."

Calming down, Parker said in a guilty voice, "Sorry ma'am." Facing Frodo again, Parker spoke, "Frodo, your only chance of reuniting with your friends is by portal. Thankfully for you, I know the right portal to go through."

"You do?" asked Frodo, confused again. "How can you know what one looks like?"

"Listen, portals are tricky devices and no two portals look the same. They don't even show up at the same place on their own." Parker said, "According to Aslan, he said the Emperor-across-the-sea began the creation of portals, similar to anything else that is fantastic."

"Is the Emperor-across-the-sea the Ilúvatar?" asked Frodo.

"Yes, he is the same God," said Parker. Noticing Lucinda finishing her tending of Frodo's wounds, Parker added, still facing Frodo, "Well, I should leave. I wouldn't want Radagast thinking I burned something of his, even this tree."

Concerned, Frodo said, "Wait. When can we meet again?"

Parker answered, calmly, "When you are feeling better and are able to walk." He said his farewell, "I'll see you later, Frodo Baggins." He waited until Lucinda left the room, before following her downstairs to the first floor.

Later that afternoon, when Frodo felt ready to walk, he was helped downstairs by Lucinda's son Colton and daughter Jacinth. On the first floor, after Frodo made it to the table, he was handed back the rolled up stack of parchment papers. Sorting through the parchments, Frodo found a scribbled message written in the Evil Queen's handwriting:

Sooner we find the Halfling Ring-bearer and the Girl, tied to the Prophecies of Old, the better. No interferences from them as soon as possible. Timing is everything.

Frodo murmured to himself, "How does the girl in my strange dreams relate to this?" When Radagast re-entered the house, Frodo asked him, "Radagast, where exactly are we? Parker Dooley said something about you keeping a mirror."

Radagast answered, "Oh. Frodo, we are inside the Troll Mountains. While many trolls have migrated, there are some – especially where Parker is planning on taking you – that remain in these mountains, hidden and walking about in their cavernous caves. Some dragons and dragonoids prefer to call this place the Horn Mountains, as the mountain peaks remind them of bellowing trumpets."

"Trolls… here?" asked Frodo, nervously.

"Bah! I wouldn't worry about it too much, lad, at least not today."

"Parker did say until I am rested and able to move around that I'm supposed to meet up with him. Where is he?" asked Frodo.

"I believe he's outside, looking at my mirror again. Those mirrors can be used to communicate as well. They're not all about seeing into the past, present, and future," said Radagast.

Standing up, Frodo struggled in his walk to reach the door. He barely made it, before turning the handle and heading outside. Although he found the air stifling, Frodo found Parker Dooley, indeed, peering into a large, oval-shaped mirror made of water. Parker's thoughts were interrupted as he watched a blue dragon with two heads – one head was long and skinny, while the other was short and stocky – arguing over who deserved the credit during their latest quest. Ignoring the two-headed dragon, Parker's attention turned to Frodo, who now sat on a wooden bench.

"The air isn't agreeing with you?" asked Parker.

Peering up, Frodo said, "I'll be fine."

"You look pale." He added, "Maybe you should head back inside. You can return here when you're feeling less ill."

Frodo nodded fast. "Thank you…" He hardly finished his sentence when he returned inside. He grabbed a bucket, seconds before losing whatever meal he ate last. Once the food was out of his system, Frodo took the wooden bucket with him back to the guest bedroom. There, Frodo plopped on the bed, falling asleep minutes later.

Chapter 5: 4: Unpleasant Reunions

Chapter by Aria Breuer (Aria_Breuer)

Chapter Text

Chapter Four:

Unpleasant Reunions

The chamber was ablaze… swirling green light came from the Black Cauldron…

A scarred lioness entered the chamber… the fierceness in her eyes meant that news was being delivered to the villains…

"The villains are attacking the heroes' campsite. Should we fire now?" asked the scarred lioness, her excitement waning.

"Hush" cried the Evil Queen, silencing Coral's elder sister. "The ritual has already begun."

"What ritual… oh,' said Lara-Belle, peering at the cauldron with understanding.

The Horned King continued his ritual… the sickly, bright green light ensued from the cauldron… out from the cauldron came a pirate with an octopus face and a clawed hand… the fish pirate captain, after speaking to his adversaries, called out a name in rage:

"Jack SPARROW!"

Jack was roused awake to the sound of pained screaming. In spite of wanting to dream about his belovedPearl, and how to avoid Barbossa, Jack recovered from the strange dream. He turned to Coral, who was calming the boy wizard Harry Potter down with soothing, calm words.

In frustration, Jack asked Harry, "What did you dream about?"

Harry, shaken, said, "I dreamed Voldemort had returned. He tried to kill me…" His voice faltered as he remembered the horrific strange dream.

The two companions fell silent.

o-o-o

When all seven companions were awake, they ate a cold breakfast before debating over their current area. They noticed they were not in the same area where they had fallen asleep the previous night, neither were they anywhere near the woodcutter. After convincing Coral they wouldn't discuss the incident from the previous day, the seven companions made their way to a calm babbling brook next to a tranquil glen. In spite of Coral's suspicions about the glen, Gurgi noticed they were a few yards away from the same log where the same large toad sat. Much to their despair, the seven companions saw a blind elderly man wearing tattered robes. It only took one traveler to get a question wrong, causing the same traveler to be forced into the enchanted brook, which made Coral see reason.

Stopping Kovu and the others in their tracks, Coral warned, "Do you know who this man is?"

"No," said Harry, confused.

Gurgi spoke out of turn, "Gurgi thinks we should head back, find another way…"

Coral burst, "I'm agreeing with him."

Harry asked, unsurprised, "Oh, come on Coral. What's the worst that could happen to us?"

"Besides our recent endeavors?" asked Edmund.

Coral explained, gruffly, "That man happens from a very… Gurgi's right. We should head back."

"Hang on, Coral," said Harry.

Kovu asked the scarred lioness, "This human is from where?"

Choosing her words carefully, Coral addressed her companions in unison, "They say, from the realm he came from, he is a bridge-keeper. They say the bridge he guards is right next to a stream that will transport travelers to any realm they first think of if one answer of his three questions is given incorrectly. I don't know where the bottomless pit of… the pit that kills people is located, but I know this is a bad idea. We should head back."

Forgetting everything Coral said, Gurgi said, "Ooh, ooh! Gurgi will go first. Gurgi will answer mean man's questions."

"No. Gurgi, wait for us…" Mumble's words faded as he watched the furry grey-and-white creature skid off towards the bridge. Facing his companions, Mumble said, "I suppose we go after him."

Coral said, annoyed, "Yes, before he gets himself into further trouble."

The six companions stopped a few feet away from the bridge. There they witnessed the Old Man from Scene 24 allow Gurgi to cross the stone bridge. Coral watched in exasperation as she saw the creature charge across the bridge, cheering but also jumping up and down in delight.

In her frustration, Coral shoved Mumble forward. "You go next!"

Mumble, appalled by the push, hesitantly replied, "Uh… all right, but I don't know how this will turn out." He noticed the others not follow him, causing Mumble to walk alone towards the bridge.

The Old Man from Scene 24 raised a hand, forcing the Emperor Penguin to abruptly halt. Lowering his hand, the elderly man spoke, deviously, "Stop! Whoever crosses the Bridge of Death must answer me these questions three, 'ere the other side he see."

Mumble said, bravely, "Ask me these questions, kind sir."

The Old Man from Scene 24 chuckled, wickedly. "What is your name?"

"Mumble Happyfeet, from Emperor Land," said Mumble.

"What is your quest?"

Mumbled answered, "To return to the Evenshire Camp, without delay."

"How many fish have ye eaten today?"

Mumble said, "None, sir. I haven't eaten breakfast."

Convinced, the Old Man from Scene 24 spoke kindly to the Emperor Penguin, "Right. It's best you should. Off you go."

Relieved to end the questioning, Mumble addressed the elderly man with kind words before crossing the bridge to meet Gurgi. The five companions watched with some dismay and confusion, most coming from Coral. After a brief discussion, the five companions charged after each other, hoping to avoid being the first to answer the bridge-keeper's questions. As Harry stopped before the bridge-keeper, Edmund rammed into him from behind; Kovu followed in front of Jack Sparrow with Coral at the rear. The Old Man from Scene 24 began his riddle and three questions on cue:

"Any who approach the Bridge of Death must answer me these questions three, 'ere the other side he see."

Harry answered right away, "Ask away, bridge-keeper."

Snickering, the Old Man from Scene 24 began asking the questions: "What is your name?"

"Harry Potter, the Boy Who Lived."

"What is your quest?"

"I'd like to return to the Evenshire Camp and be reunited with my friends."

"What is the air speed velocity of a Firebolt broomstick?"

Stunned, Harry answered, "Up to one-hundred and fifty miles per hour."

"That's right. Go on." The Old Man from Scene 24 gave a quizzical expression, after Harry crossed the stone bridge. Noticing Edmund approach the bridge, the elderly man raised a hand. He asked, "Stop! What is your name?"

Edmund addressed him, speaking in a noble manner, "Edmund Pevensie, King of Narnia."

"What is your quest?"

"I seek to resume my quest to find the heroes' encampment."

"What is the average height of a talking mouse?"

Confused, Edmund guessed, "A foot or two tall."

"That's right." As Edmund crossed the bridge, the bridge-keeper thought:What is happening here?Before the dark-furred lion snuck past him, the Old Man from Scene 24 raised his hand: "Stop! What is your name?"

Kovu responded, "Kovu, Prince of the Pridelands."

"What is your quest?"

Kovu said, "To return to the Evenshire Camp and find Simba."

Coral whispered, "He shouldn't be giving too much information away." She was shushed by the pirate captain, who only agitated her further.

The Old Man from Scene 24 asked his third question to Kovu, "What are the only creatures not allowed in the Pridelands?"

Kovu answered, as if having an epiphany, "Hyenas and exiled lions."

The elderly man replied, "Right. Off you go."

Kovu said, "Thank you, kind sir. I will put in a good word to Simba about you…"

The bridge-keeper interrupted, "That's enough. Get lost." He didn't pay attention to Kovu, as the lion trotted across the stone bridge.

Facing Coral, Jack spoke in a sly voice, "Ladies first?"

Coral insisted, "Age before beauty?"

"Teeth before flesh?" asked Jack, extending his hand towards the bridge.

Overhearing the argument, the Old Man from Scene 24 pointed to the pirate captain, "You there!" Noticing Jack's stunned expression, the bridge-keeper insisted, "Yes you! I am asking you to answer my riddle, before the sun touches noon."

Coral swatted at Jack from behind, sending the pirate captain sprawling in front of the bridge-keeper. Regaining his balance, Jack Sparrow was forced to answer the Old Man from Scene 24's questions:

"What is your name?"

"Jack Sparrow, Captain of the Black Pearl."

"What is your quest?"

Jack answered, bluntly, "To find me ship and leave the harbor, before Barbossa comes and steals it from me again."

"What is the significance of the nine pieces of eight?"

"What is the purpose of having a Bridge of Death if everyone is bound to get an answer wrong, mate?"

The Old Man from Scene 24 looked befuddled. "I – I don't know that." Without warning, he flew backwards into the air, right into the stream. As he splashed in the stream, he screamed, "Not again! What did I do to deserve this?" He vanished in seconds by a billowing mist.

Coral asked Jack, concerned, "Who in their right mind would ask a question like that? This forest has enough riddles buzzing as it is, I can barely keep my head straight."

Jack shrugged. "Well, you never know when one needs to reverse the question."

Coral raised an eyebrow. Seconds later, she followed the pirate captain across the stone bridge. When the two were reunited with their companions, Edmund spoke in turn:

"Well, you wouldn't expect an old man to guard a bridge."

Harry said, "At least we found the main road."

Coral said, "Good. Then we travel down the main road and get out of here, before some else with riddles stops us."

Mumble informed them, worriedly, "That's what might happen to us."

"I know, Mumble," said Coral, tense. "This forest is a maze." She hardly heard Harry's statements as she caught up to Kovu, who was keeping ahead of the group and Jack Sparrow.

o-o-o

The seven companions did not travel down the dirt road for long. By the time they were yards away from the mysterious Bridge of Death, the group arrived at a hollow log where the same large toad Gurgi encountered sat on. Gurgi yelped in surprise, fleeing behind Kovu's foreleg. Coral, similar to the rest of her companions, gasped in surprise as the toad spoke to the group; however, Coral was the only one who showed a knowing expression:

"One path leads to safety and dawning life with heroes. One path leads to a dark, grim fate."

Unsurprised, Harry said, "Great, another riddle to solve."

The toad continued in his deep, croaking voice: "You may ask one question, I always lie."

Coral, actually willing to answer this riddle, said to Mumble and Gurgi after they approached the toad, "These two-path decision riddles are always tough."

"Maybe it's not," said Mumble, slightly optimistic.

Gurgi asked the two, "Shouldn't we ask him a question?"

Coral answered, pressured, "Yes, but he may lie about the answer."

The toad broke the trio's discussion: "Time's up."

Harry pulled out his wand as he approached the trio. "I can't take this anymore." He shouted, "Move!" Just as Edmund rushed up to him, Harry pointed his wand at the toad and said, "Expelliarmus!"

Jets of yellow light sparked from Harry's wand. The toad was struck from the spell, sending him flying backwards towards the path on the companion's right side. The toad croaked and wandered down the right path, spouting offenses and insults at the seven companions – most of the insults were towards Gurgi, who merely shook his head. It was moments before Gurgi, out of pity, charged close to the right-hand path, while his six companions took the path to their left. Just as the companions darted down the peaceful path, they and Gurgi heard a fierce croaking, followed by the toad's loud annoyances and then a loud explosion.

Coral, sympathizing with Gurgi, admitted to her six companions, "I guess the path on our leftwascorrect." She noticed the others didn't reply, but groaned as they rushed down the left-hand path. Coral waited until Gurgi, now fearful for his life and the fate of the toad, sped towards and past her. Coral followed after down the narrow, peaceful path.

Returning to the Evenshire Camp…

The past two days troubled the heroes. Many awaited the news of the seven heroes Aslan sent out to fid the source of the falling stars. Some heroes wondered if the hobbit, Frodo Baggins, survived the villains' attacks at their territory, Merswold Camp. However, on the eve of the third day, much of these talks reduced to low murmurs and whispers.

To Samwise Gamgee's annoyance, Melissa returned to her obnoxious self, telling one story after another of her past. Sam suspected Melissa was hiding much, if not all, of her life from Merry and his friends.

On the morning of the third day, Hermione Granger met up with Edmund Pevensie's brother, sisters, and cousin Eustace. Hermione was eventually pulled away from the group by Ronald Weasley, who was suspicious towards Eustace. Reepicheep had joined the group, after having a long, hard talk with the hedgehog Amor.

Quietly, Reepicheep told Peter Pevensie, "I do hope Edmund returns today."

"We don't know that, Reep," said Peter.

Noticing the whispers from the group, Huck Finn joined in, "Well, ain't we having a deep conversation. What's it about?"

"Nothing that concerns you, Huckleberry Finn," said Susan.

Sarcastically, Huck said, "Then I wish you luck, Miss Pevensie."

"Huckleberry, please restrain yourself," said Lucy, serious.

Offended, Huck said, "Sorry I bothered you." He took off in search of Dodger.

Peering at the border of the Silent Forest, Reepicheep spotted two figures enter the campsite. Before he thought it was someone else, Reepicheep saw another figure in a pirate hat join the two figures. He shouted in delight, "They're back! The seven heroes have returned!"

As the masses of heroes left the food pavilion, Melissa stayed in the food pavilion, talking with Nash. Reepicheep was right about seven heroes returning. However, as the seven companions entered the camp, with Coral lingering in the back, Reepicheep noticed Frodo Baggins and Anakin Skywalker were missing. The second Coral made her appearance many heroes readied themselves for an attack.

Harry stopped them at once, including Melissa, with words. "She's not going to hurt us! Coral helped us reach the Merswold Camp, and returning to this camp." He waited until the heroes lowered their weapons, before lowering his wand.

Melissa spoke, out of turn, "So, you brought the scarred lioness here."

"How did you get to this camp, Melissa?" asked Coral, suspicious.

"You know her?" asked Nash.

"We met on the road once," said Melissa.

"Once?" asked Coral, surprised. "It's been more than once, and those meetings weren't friendly." Turning to her six companions, Coral told them, "Maybe we should return to the forest."

"I'm not going back in there! After the mass of riddles we had to go through," said Harry, serious.

Aslan, approaching the small circle, spotted the furry grey-and-white creature. "Hello Gurgi."

Gurgi pleaded, "Please Aslan! Gurgi only wanted to help Frodo. Gurgi didn't mean to leave camp."

"Where are Frodo Baggins and Anakin Skywalker?" asked Aslan.

"They fled! They couldn't stand to be near us," said Jack Sparrow.

Edmund answered in turn, "We don't know what happened to Anakin, or Frodo."

"Frodo looked determined to find something, or someone. That's all I know of his fate." Coral added, "I let him go. Was that bad?"

"Master Frodo cannot survive out there alone. He needed you, Miss Coral," said Sam.

Aslan said, "Frodo is braver than you realize, Sam. He'll find a way back. This is, after all, his task."

"I know Aslan, but… he needs his friends," said Sam.

Aslan shook his head, knowing Sam would not understand.

Mumble announced himself, "Good news is we're back."

"Yes, we are Mumble," said Kovu as he was reunited with his family.

o-o-o

Later that Afternoon…

After Coral convinced Remy she was a friend, Remy allowed her to have two steaks of meat. The scarred lioness thanked the blue rat, moments before she gobbled up the meat. Remy soon added more food and drink to the scarred lioness' delight. She left the kitchen pavilion with a full stomach and good spirits.

Hours passed before Coral and her six companions were sent inside a large tent. There, they told the assemblage of heroes their adventures. As they did, Harry ended up debating with the hobbits over which of the four houses at Hogwarts they would fit into. Pippin automatically thought Sam for Gryffindor, due to his bravery and character. Rosie had to agree. In turn, Merry thought Pippin for Hufflepuff – not just because of the food – while Pippin thought Merry would fit in with Gryffindor. Together, Merry and Pippin thought Frodo would be better suited in Ravenclaw, due to his nature.

As this small debate ensued, Aslan spoke with Coral alone. From their discussion, Coral mentioned that Frodo was last to carry the documents Aslan needed. Edmund stepped in with his say on the matter. When Kovu joined in, the meeting was finished, yet he still inquired with Coral. So far, the evening proved prosperous yet confusing.

Meanwhile…

At the Disney Castle, King Mickey managed to rally his friends together in the throne room. There, they discussed how the worlds were saved, thanks to Sora. However, when King Mickey brought the letter up that Aslan sent, Donald peered at the letter with caution.

"What can this mean?" asked Donald.

"Do you think Aslan may have sent someone else to restore the worlds?" asked Goofy.

"He certainly did!" said Mickey, fuming. "This whole time, the Lion sends someone else without telling us."

"What if Aslan sent the letter while you were away." Queen Minnie guessed.

Mickey thought for a moment. "That is possible." He added, still furious, "But why choose until after we've gone in search of Sora? There must be a reason."

Donald pondered over the letter. "Do you think we need to meet this hobbit, Frodo Baggins?"

"Hey! Maybe we could go after him, too!" said Goofy, delighted.

Mickey shook his head. "If Aslan gives us an update, then we'll see about going after him. Maybe then we'll find out what else is happening outside our galaxy."

"Sounds like a good plan to me," said Donald, returning the letter to Mickey.

Chapter 6: 5: The Nature of Time

Chapter by Aria Breuer (Aria_Breuer)

Chapter Text

Chapter Five:

The Nature of Time

1.5 Days Ago…

More villains gathered in the Silent Forest. Sauron checked and re-checked each weapon the minions had to make sure they were in good condition. Maleficent approached Sauron, after receiving the latest news from one of the scarred lionesses.

"The heroes appear to be enjoying their time at the Evenshire Camp. Shall we give the word to move out?" asked Maleficent.

Sauron raised his hand. "I want to give these heroes the unexpected welcome from us. We bring the army into the underground chasms." Facing the villains, villainesses, and their minions, Sauron announced, "This night, the heroes will know what we villains are capable of doing! We head byway to the underground chambers. We'll take them by surprise." As Maleficent led the villains, villainesses, and minions in search of an entrance or two to the underground caves, Sauron said to himself, "But the hobbit, Frodo Baggins, is mine." He followed after the villains in search of an entrance.

Present Day…

When Frodo awoke, he found he was wearing a clean shirt. Like at the Evenshire Camp, Frodo noticed his dirty clothes were missing. As he sat up, Frodo was met by Lucinda.

"Your clothes are being washed, Mr. Baggins," said Lucinda. "Is there anything I can get you?"

"Maybe something to eat," said Frodo.

Lucinda nodded. She said, "Right away." She then left the room and fled downstairs.

Upon Lucinda's return, she brought Frodo a tray filled with cheese, bread, fruit, and a mug filled with water. Frodo thanked the hobbitess for the meal, before he took a bite of some cheese. Moments after Frodo finished eating, he attempted to stand up. He was successful, but still felt a bit queasy. As the fit passed, Frodo made his way downstairs by himself, which shocked Lucinda and her children. Lucinda went upstairs to grab the wooden tray from the bed stand. After another fit passed, Frodo walked outside, where he found the air agreeable and the red dragonoid Parker Dooley watching Radagast's mirror.

"You're awake, I see," said Parker. "Are you feeling better?"

"I'm managing," said Frodo. "What is so interesting about Radagast's mirror? You failed to answer me last time we spoke."

"The mirror is like Galadriel's mirror, if that's what you want to know. I look at it and see my past, present, and the future to come," explained Parker. Facing the hobbit, Parker said, "Perhaps you would be interested in seeing other trinkets worthy of value."

"No, I'll look into the mirror," said Frodo, approaching the mirror.

At first, Frodo saw his own reflection in the water. Then the reflection changed to reveal Coral and the other heroes of the second Fellowship. They appeared to be all right and reunited with their families. The image changed to the Shire, where Aslan froze Time. The Shire folk appeared all right, too. The image changed again to the villains, who appeared to be in the Silent Forest, searching for a way into the Evenshire Camp. The image changed then to a battle at the Evenshire Camp, where the villains were winning and the heroes were forced to retreat. Frodo even caught a glimpse of himself fighting in the battle. The losses looked grave, and even Reepicheep looked in terrible condition. The last image Frodo saw was Sauron, who seemed determined to find him.

"Don't touch the water!" cried Parker, forcing Frodo to step a few paces back from the mirror. As the hobbit recomposed himself, Parker addressed him, "What did you see?"

"I saw… a battle at the Evenshire Camp. Lives lost, but…"

"You saw the future, just a glimpse of it," said Parker.

Frodo said, convinced, "I have to go. Sam, my friends… they need me."

Parker nodded in agreement. "And so you must. Yet you have no guide to lead you back."

Frodo shook his head. "No. I don't know where I am, or whether I'm close enough to journey back to the Evenshire Camp by myself."

"I know where we are." Reluctantly, Parker said, "I'll accompany you, guide you back."

"You will?" asked Frodo.

Parker nodded. "We can speak more indoors. Too many ears can hear us out here."

Frodo then followed the red dragonoid inside the brown wizard's house. Once inside, Frodo and Parker discussed a way to reach the portal, the one that would return Frodo to the Evenshire Camp. During the discussion, Frodo asked:

"You're not coming with me for the rest of the journey?"

Parker said, "I have other matters to attend here, which includes telling Radagast of your speedy recovery-"

"I cannot say I am fully recovered. Some wounds remain deep and painful." As if on cue, Frodo's chest hurt him.

Ignoring the wound, for a brief time, Parker explained, "If you feel rested enough for travel, we can leave tomorrow. It'll take us two days to reach the portal. By that time, let us hope we don't run into trolls or we will be slowed down."

Frodo nodded. "Then let us hope my recovery goes quick."

Frodo and Parker continued planning their venture throughout the day. In a way, Frodo felt he could trust the dragonoid more than he could the creature Gollum, even though he remembered feeling pity towards Sméagol. They finished their planning by nightfall, when Frodo's chest and old wounds resurfaced. Parker hoped the hobbit could survive the trip.

Another two days passed.

Within that time, although his chest pained him on occasion, Frodo felt sure he could withstand the journey. He said his farewells to Lucinda and her two children, Colton and Jacinth, before he was pulled off to the side by Radagast the Brown. Frodo noticed Parker was not too far away from earshot.

"I hope you can trust that dragonoid named Parker Dooley. He may look noble, but there's something about him that troubles me," said Radagast. "You would do well to be cautious, lad."

Frodo said, "He wants to help me return to my friends. I cannot abandon them or my guide."

"Careful. It's unwise to repeat the past," said Radagast.

Taking Radagast's word to heart, Frodo said, "I will stay mindful. Thank you for the advice… everything."

"Well… should you need my help again, simply ask the moths. They'll guide you back to me," said Radagast.

The moment Frodo returned to the house, Parker led Frodo out of the first cavern. Frodo waved a final farewell to the group before departing. His heart, however, stayed with Radagast and the rogue hobbits. Once Frodo and Parker were out of sight, Lucinda and her children helped gather their things.

Radagast asked Lucinda, "Are you sure you can manage?"

"Yes, I believe we can, Radagast. Thank you," said Lucinda.

"Do you think he'll be all right? Frodo Baggins, I mean?" asked Jacinth.

Colton said, "Ha! If anything, Frodo will know how to handle that dragonoid. You remember what Parker did last time to those chickens." He said in a more serious tone, "Don't worry, Jacinth. Frodo is in good hands."

"Sometimes I wonder about that Parker Dooley. He reminds me of Frodo, in some ways," said Radagast. He waved a final farewell to Lucinda and her two children, before he trudged off in search of freshly-grown mushrooms.

The journey through the caves was arduous. Parker soon lit a torch for Frodo, before they continued onwards in the dark. The dragonoid did not need a torch. As he said to Frodo, Parker could see fine in the darkness. This helped ease Frodo's mind, but only by some measure. Everywhere they went in the caves and chasms, Frodo could hardly see the daylight, let alone the sun.

Leaving one of the tunnels, Frodo and Parker reached a wide valley, sparse with trees and foliage. The two rested in this valley for a time, Frodo eating whatever food Lucinda packed for him, while Parker went after a wild rodent or two. During his time of loneliness, Frodo's mind started playing tricks on him. It was then that he was spotted by a troll. Parker caught up to him as the trolls advanced. Frodo pulled out his broken piece of Sting that still remained. The trolls laughed manically at the broken sword with the hilt. As one, the trolls escorted Frodo and Parker to a wide wooden-and-stone bridge. The trolls stopped in front of the hobbit and dragonoid, blocking the passage.

"Here, you must pay us a toll. If you pay us the right toll, we will let you pass," said one troll, grinning hungrily.

Frodo asked, nervously, "What if we pay the wrong toll?"

Another troll chuckled. "If you pay us the wrong toll, then you must try again. However, too many wrong tries will earn us a meal."

"Oh, only that," said Frodo.

Reluctant, Frodo passed the trolls his broken sword. The trolls gave the sword back without delay.

"Try again, lad," said a third troll.

Raising his hand, Frodo pulled out a bauble. Handing the bauble to the trolls, Frodo said, "This trinket was given to me by a friend, just recently. I'm not sure what its use is, but…"

"No, it's good. We'll let you pass," said the trolls one after another.

"Thank you," said Frodo, just as Parker led him across the bridge.

"That was easy," said Parker, noticing Frodo's reluctant look.

On the other side of the bridge, Frodo and Parker entered the next tunnel network in the mountains. No longer having a torch, Frodo relied on Parker's eyesight to lead him through the maze of tunnels. The two eventually entered a massive chasm with a bottomless pit. A ways from the tunnel's exit, the hobbit and red dragonoid came across a wooden bridge, leading to the other side of the stone chamber. Just as the two watched two travelers fail to answer an elderly blind man's questions, Parker nearly avoided the bridge. Frodo led on for a brief time towards the bridge, where the elderly man in the peasantry robes stopped him:

"Whoever crosses the Bridge of Death must answer me these questions three, 'ere the other side he see."

"Ask away, bridge-keeper," said Frodo.

"What is your name?"

"Frodo Baggins, from the Shire," answered Frodo.

"What is your quest?"

"I seek to return home."

"Who made the One Ring?"

"Sauron," said Frodo.

"That's right. Off you go," said the Old Man from Scene 24.

Stunned, Frodo said as he crossed the bridge, "Oh, thank you kind sir." He noticed the elderly man grin back at him.

Before Parker could cross, he was stopped by the bridge-keeper, "Stop! What is your name?"

Parker said in answer, "Parker Dooley. I represent the dragonoids."

"What is your quest?"

"I bring this poor hobbit – who has just crossed your bridge – back to the Evenshire Camp."

"What is the difference between a dragon and a dragonoid?"

"What do you mean? Do you mean our size, or our appearance?"

Baffled, the Old Man from Scene 24 answered, "I – I don't know that." He was thrown into the air and into the pit, screaming.

Convinced, Parker crossed the bridge and met up with Frodo. Parker continued to lead Frodo onwards to the next tunnel. After a trek through the next maze, Frodo and Parker came out into a waterfall glen. It was here that Parker and Frodo saw a silver-lined portal at the top of the hill. As Frodo advanced through the glen, he noticed Parker not follow him. Frodo ran back to the dragonoid.

"Parker, come on," said Frodo.

"You should go on. Your friends need you," said Parker.

"You're not coming with me for the rest of the journey?" asked Frodo, saddened by the news.

Before Parker could answer, he and Frodo heard the sound of ogres approach. Regretting his decision, Parker led Frodo up the hill to the portal. The jump the two made through the portal felt different to Frodo than the water portal Aslan sent him through. Surrounding the hobbit was a mixture of bright lights, with no floor, ceiling, or walls to hold him. The experience ended faster than was started. On the other side of the portal, Frodo and Parker landed in a heap. Hoping he didn't crush the hobbit, Parker helped Frodo off the ground.

"Are you all right?" asked Parker, concerned.

Frodo nodded. "I think I am." Peering at the wide cave, Frodo asked, "Where are we? Are we back?"

With a solemn expression, Parker said, "Yes. I recognize these cave drawings anywhere." He showed Frodo the cave drawings along the walls and ceiling. "They depict Aslan and other heroes, including yourself." Noticing the next tunnel had shafts of light, Parker said, "We must be close to the Evenshire Camp's underground cave." He led Frodo quickly through the tunnel.

Coming out from the tunnel, Parker stopped Frodo with a scaly arm. The two witnessed villains and villainesses gathering in the wide underground cave, the same cave Frodo saw when Hermione led him to the private bathrooms in the halls above.

Frodo whispered in Parker's ear, "Oh no. What are they doing here?"

Parker whispered back, "Seems the battle you foresaw in Radagast's mirror hasn't yet started."

As the villains continued their gathering, one of the hero mice witnessed the scene below from his post. He ran off, charging up through the tunnels. Frodo guessed the mouse was warning Aslan and the other heroes of the villains. When the mouse returned, he was accompanied by Gandalf, Coral, the Pevensies, Reepicheep, and a few other heroes that Frodo did not know. Maleficent made her way to the front of the crowd of villains to greet the advancing heroes.

"Well, isn't this a fine turn out. My greetings to you, Gandalf the White," said Maleficent.

"Maleficent, you and your band of villains have no place in this encampment," said Gandalf.

Maleficent chuckled. She said, "A fine way to greet your adversaries. I must say, I expected better from you."

"By Aslan's paw, you will not enter this camp."

"May I speak?" Maleficent stepped forward, mockingly. "You heroes may have seen war, yet you do not know fear enough to challenge me." She added, "Such a pity. We had expected better from you." She looked at the heroes, but was surprised when the four hobbits approached the scene. "It seems you are missing one hobbit, Gandalf. Where is your precious friend, Baggins? Is he… missing?" The villains chuckled behind her in unison.

"Frodo Baggins will appear whenever he wishes." Gandalf said, "I see no reason why you came. Do you seek war or to simply mock us heroes? No matter the outcome, villains will always lose."

"We'll see about that, Gandalf," said Jadis, threatening.

"Wait!" cried Maleficent. "I can see that our needs are on differing pendulums. May I inquire that you will seek assistance, while we stand in triumph?"

"I don't think so, Maleficent," whispered Frodo.

Parker pushed Frodo against the wall. He whispered, "Frodo, those villains mean to kill you. If you go out there now…"

"What would you have me do? Lie in wait?" asked Frodo, whispering a little louder.

Parker whispered, in regret, "If that is what we must do, then we must do so."

Maleficent continued to speak to Gandalf, aloud. "I can see we are on opposite ends in this upcoming battle. It's a shame you couldn't follow me." She hardly noticed the hobbit and dragonoid standing in the tunnel nearby.

Gandalf answered, "If you ask me the same that Saruman asked me once then I shall have to decline. You should know that by now. You cannot convince heroes, if their minds are already set."

Maleficent nodded, "Very well. I had expected better from you."

Frodo finally pushed Parker out of the way. Rushing out of the tunnel, Frodo noticed he was spotted, not just by his friends and the heroes, by the villains and Maleficent, who cried in shock. Maleficent and Sauron struck with their spells at the hobbit, but failed to catch him. Frodo made it to the stone stairs and started climbing. He looked back once to see Parker facing a few villains. Frodo was helped up by Gandalf, who told him to meet up with his hobbit friends. Parker soon joined the heroes, as Gandalf repelled a spell back at Maleficent.

Merry told his eldest cousin, shocked, "Frodo! However did you manage to survive the wilds on your own? Sam has been worried about you every day, since your absence."

"I got a little sidetracked." Frodo asked, "Where is Aslan?"

"He's in his tent." Sam watched Frodo rush off. "Master Frodo, where are you going now?"

"I have to warn Aslan, and give him these parchments." Frodo showed Sam the rolled up stack of parchments all too soon, for Jadis spotted them being waved in Frodo's hands.

Reepicheep intervened. "Pardon me, Master Baggins, but it seems you'll have to move quickly. I fear one of the chief villains has spotted you."

Replacing the parchment papers inside his jacket pocket, Frodo said to the anthropomorphic mouse, "Thank you, Reepicheep." He soon fled through the tunnels in search of the way back to the surface. He was followed by Samwise Gamgee and his fiancée, Rosie Cotton.

Chapter 7: 6: Underground Battle

Chapter by Aria Breuer (Aria_Breuer)

Chapter Text

Chapter Six:

Underground Battle

After Parker Dooley's climb, Coral met up with him. "It seems we meet again, Dooley."

"I would have said the same thing to you, Coral," said Parker, coolly.

"Maleficent, I ask you to stand down," said Gandalf, warning.

"Why should I do that, Gandalf the White?" asked Maleficent, casting a few spells at the wizard.

"Gandalf, wait…" Parker was jetted back by a spell performed by Gandalf.

Maleficent alerted Jadis, "Send the first front into the fray."

Jadis chuckled. She said, "As you wish, mi lady Maleficent." Facing the scarred lions, Jadis told them, "Lions, begin your ascent." She watched the scarred lions growl, before they made their ascent up the cliff.

Dodging the spells, Gandalf ejected a few of his own at Maleficent. One of the spells included a watery spell, which caused Maleficent to turn away for a moment. Using her staff, Maleficent shot a few snake spells. All of the snakes were turned to dust, due to a spell Gandalf shot from his white woven staff.

The scarred lions, meantime, began their advance up the cliffs. They were slow climbing up. Nearly all of the scarred lions were knocked off by rocks, pelted at by Reepicheep and his army of mice. The scarred lionesses watched in agony as the scarred lions were forced to retreat. The scarred lions that made it up the cliff startled the mice. Some mice were able to hurtle their rocks at the advancing scarred lions, before they fell into the fight. Reepicheep, enjoying the feel of battle again, managed to help some mice knock a scarred lion off the wall.

"Take that, you fiend," shouted Reepicheep, in merry delight.

Gandalf told Coral and the other heroes behind him. "Retreat up the cliffs. Help the mice!"

Coral started to tell the wizard, "Wait, Gandalf…"

"Come on, Coral," said Parker, dragging the frantic scarred lioness up the stone stairs.

Gandalf shot another spell at Maleficent. The spell knocked Maleficent to the ground, unconscious. Sauron, witnessing this scene, advanced towards the front. There, he made eye contact with Gandalf.

"Hullo, wizard," said Sauron.

"I'm an Istari to you, Sauron," said Gandalf.

Sauron chuckled. "Either way, you shall not live to see the next day."

Sauron quickly cast a few spells at the white wizard. Gandalf repelled them all, while dodging a few of them. He was narrowly struck by another spell Sauron blasted at him. Their fight ensued with great tension. Jadis approached Maleficent during this battle, but noticed she was knocked out cold.

With Sam and Rosie trailing after him, Frodo managed to reach the surface. The sunlight pierced his eyes for several seconds. Sam and Rosie caught up to Frodo in less time, guiding their friend to Aslan's tent. The second they reached the tent, Frodo rushed inside. He found Aslan studying some maps with the Elf named Legolas and the boy dragon rider named Eragon.

Interrupting their meeting, Frodo spoke, "Forgive me for bothering you, Aslan, but I have returned…" He stopped Legolas before he could embrace him. Approaching Aslan, Frodo pulled out the rolled stack of parchments from his jacket pocket. "I found these at the Merswold Camp. They're plans for the battle already ensuing down in the underground cave."

Aslan nodded once. "Well done, Frodo. You have completed your task. But did you just say the battle was already ensuing?"

Frodo nodded in agreement. "I did. I just saw the villains gather on the ground level of the underground cave."

Aslan told Legolas, "Assemble as many heroes as you can. We're going to make sure they don't enter this campsite on the surface."

"And if they do enter here?" asked Legolas.

"Then we must prepare for a rendezvous. I will not lose many heroes this day," said Aslan. He watched Legolas leave the tent at once.

"Pardon me, Aslan, what will Sapphira and I do?" asked Eragon.

"Protect as many heroes as you can, should they enter the upper tunnels," said Aslan. He then watched Eragon take off out from the tent.

Frodo sighed. "I figured you would find this matter more important than the information I found."

"Your information is just as important as helping the heroes to safety," informed Aslan. "Your parents would be proud, if they knew how much you have accomplished."

"I miss them," said Frodo.

Aslan nodded. "I know. Right now, you and your friends must help as many heroes as you can. Your lives and theirs are important. We will discuss this issue later, if we get the chance. I'll show you where the safest place to rendezvous is, but I fear there are many heroes who have other rendezvous places as well. I do hope many survive this day."

Putting the rolled up stack of parchments back in his jacket pocket, Frodo led Sam and Rosie out of the tent. As Sam asked Frodo if he had eaten anything, Frodo remembered the silver flask Aslan gave him. Frodo drank the watery liquid down, which led to more of his wounds, including his chest, to heal. The two, with Rosie's aide, helped warn the heroes that could not fight to head to a rendezvous point. For the heroes that stayed, Frodo, Sam, and Rosie told them where the villains were gathered.

The scarred lionesses advanced as soon as the last scarred lion was on the ground. While the injured scarred lions were treated for their wounds, the scarred lionesses began their ascent up the cliffs. As they scaled the walls, many were thrown back down or killed, due to the rocks and boulders thrown at them by the hero mice. Unlike the scarred lions, who were practically defeated and some killed in the onslaught, the scarred lionesses gained a stronger foothold. Coral watched as the scarred lionesses reached the top, beginning their own slaughter attack against the heroes and the hero mice.

One scarred lioness taunted Coral, "Lara-Belle told me all about your 'victory'. She thinks you couldn't outsmart her twice."

"Mage, how dare you…"

"Enough of this!" shouted Mage, "Its time to end what you started!" She attacked Coral first in the fight.

Maleficent awoke with a splitting headache. She was helped up by Jadis, who informed her that the fight was going well. As Maleficent saw the villains only watch the scarred lionesses and scarred lions, healed partially from their wounds, scale the cliffs, she saw the stone stairs was open. All the while, Maleficent noticed Gandalf and Sauron were caught in mortal combat.

Maleficent told Jadis, "Send for my crow, Diablo." The crow appeared the second she said his name. Finding the crow perched on her staff, Maleficent informed him, "Return to the Merswold Camp. Inform the Horned King and the Evil Queen that we are through. I do hope they send reinforcements." She watched Diablo as he flew through the underground cave.

Lara-Belle remembered Maleficent's instruction: "Stay with the Evil Queen, until Diablo returns for the reinforcements." As she kept lookout of the camp, Lara-Belle pondered over the meaning of Maleficent's words. Maleficent wasn't going on a whim to enter the heroes' camp, and neither was Sauron or any other villains. No, they were planning on annihilating all the heroes. She knew how high the stakes were. The battle would likely fold in on itself, but she couldn't fathom…

A crow'scawbroke Lara-Belle's train of thought. Lara-Belle recognized the crow as Diablo.

"So, Maleficent needs reinforcements after all," said Lara-Belle.

Heading back inside the cave, Lara-Belle signaled to one of the orcs. This orc led the large army out of the campsite. Around this time, Creeper made his presence known to Lara-Belle.

"Lara-Belle, the Evil Queen has summoned you to her throne room," informed Creeper.

"It must be important. Come on, Kreacher," said Lara-Belle, leading the way.

"It'sCreeper!" corrected Creeper, upset again. "Get it in writing."

"If only I had hands to write with," remarked Lara-Belle, cackling slightly.

o-o-o

Entering the first chamber, which was adjoined to the second chamber where the Evil Queen kept her magic mirror, Lara-Belle noticed a strange chill in the air. Throughout the room were draped curtains, toned in dull colors of red, purple, and a dark sickly green. The throne, sitting in the centermost end of the room, was made out of stone. The pillow seated on top of the throne room was decked in the colors red, black, and grey, as if to signify the villains' presence were welcome in this throne room. While this throne reminded Lara-Belle of Maleficent's throne, in some significant fashion, the scarred lioness herself already felt unwelcome in this first chamber. In spite of finding the throne empty, Lara-Belle heard the Evil Queen in the adjoining room, talking to her magic mirror.

As she entered the second chamber, Lara-Belle stopped the Evil Queen midway through her conversation with the mirror and the weakling infant Voldemort, who was still held in the Evil Queen's arms. The Evil Queen stopped her conversation with the mirror, upon hearing Lara-Belle's voice:

"Mi lady, we just received Maleficent's crow. I sent out the reinforcements…"

"Finally," said the Evil Queen. As she returned to the first chamber, the Evil Queen told the stunned scarred lioness, "Come Lara-Belle. You are about to witness the resurrection of a villain of old."

"Really?" asked Lara-Belle. She asked now, coyly, "How old are we talking?"

Ignoring the meaning behind the second question, the Evil Queen only said in reply, "Legendary."

Lara-Belle asked further, "Are you sure? Because I would think that, in order to become a legendary villain, you would have to-" Her ramblings towards the Evil Queen dragged on until they returned to the chamber, where the Black Cauldron was kept.

Just as Lara-Belle followed the Evil Queen into the chamber, anotherboomsounded from the Black Cauldron. The ground shook, causing some loose rock and debris to fall from the ceiling and walls. As the Horned King continued his ritual, the glowing green light grew brighter. Lara-Belle noticed Voldemort regaining some of his powers, yet the glowing light continued to drown out the darkness in the chamber. Once the light dimmed, Lara-Belle saw before her and the Evil Queen two villainous figures. The villain standing before her, with his back turned away from her, appeared to be a man with bony arms, fingers, legs, and feet. He wore jet black robes, which seemingly made him appear to be a dark wizard of sorts. The second villain, nearest to the Horned King and the cauldron, looked almost fish-like now, except for what remained of his clothing that wasn't covered in coral. His head and one side of his arm was octopus, while his other arm and right leg were crab. The clothes he wore made him appear as a captain of a pirate ship. Once he snatched his red pirate captain's hat, covered in barnacles, from the Horned King, this second villain formally placed it back on top of his octopus-shaped head.

Still lying on the stone floor, Lara-Belle asked the villain nearest her, "It's you… Voldemort, is it?" She watched as the black-robed villain slowly turned his attention towards her. Lara-Belle saw his face had further become like a serpent, yet she could still see human features on his face, such as his light pale skin, head, mouth, and chin. Nervous, Lara-Belle stood up as she said, promptly, "Voldemort, I am obliged to…" She was cut off as the wizard cast a spell on her, tossing her across the room like tinfoil. Lara-Belle landed hard on the stone floor, nearly blacking out due to the blow.

Pleased, the Evil Queen admitted to the dark wizard, "Well done, mi lord. She was becoming a nuisance." Turning to the fish pirate before her, the Evil Queen told him as she joined the Horned King, with Voldemort following after her, "I see you have escaped your solitude from Calypso, Davy Jones." Seeing the saddened expression on the pirate captain's face, the Evil Queen bemused him: "Shocking though it may seem, we need your assistance. You may recall an old foe of yours, a debtor, whose last name is Sparrow."

Noticing the angered expression on Jones' face, the Horned King informed Voldemort, "I will see to it that word spreads of your arrival, and that of Jones."

The Evil Queen intervened, "No! Maleficent informed me that I was in charge, while she and Sauron dealt with the heroes at Evenshire…"

"Yes, and so you have done well," said the Horned King, slyly. "For now, let someone else take charge of this camp. I believe you need your rest…"

Recovering from the blow, Lara-Belle noticed the Evil Queen fell into a trance, set by the Horned King. Before she had a chance to recover, Lara-Belle was ordered and berated by Voldemort to bring the Evil Queen back to her chambers. Lara-Belle took the order without question, but felt suspicious towards these three cronies. Once the Horned King walked away from the cauldron with Voldemort, Davy Jones bellowed a horrific cry: "Jack –Sparrow!" His angered cry could be heard clear to the Silent Forest.

Chapter 8: 7: Reinforcements

Chapter by Aria Breuer (Aria_Breuer)

Chapter Text

Chapter Seven:

Reinforcements

Heeding Frodo and his hobbit friends' warning, the remaining heroes grabbed whatever weapons they could muster. Some heroes, such as Remy, decided to stay in the campsite, in case any villains decided to attack there. Frodo regrouped with the others in the arena, which Aslan chose to close off from any attacking villains. There, Frodo was met by Melissa and another hobbit. This male hobbit had curly, light-brown hair and hazel eyes. He seemed an intelligent sort, compared to Melissa.

Melissa gave the introduction. "Frodo, this is Nash Wimble. He accompanied me and your cousins when the Terrabay Camp was razed."

"Melissa exaggerates in her tales," said Nash. "I met up with her again, before we reached the Evenshire Camp. She appeared to be clinging to your cousin Merry."

"So I've noticed," said Frodo, suspicious of Melissa yet again.

Feeling uncomfortable, Melissa said, "Um… Nash, perhaps we should move on."

"It was nice meeting you, Frodo Baggins," said Nash, following Melissa thereafter.

"Same to you," said Frodo, just as a thought crept up on him.

o-o-o

"Come on, you villains. Fight those heroes!" shouted Maleficent, already enraged.

She watched helplessly as the scarred lions and lionesses lost their advantage against the heroes. Mage ended up knocked unconscious by her old-friend-turned-enemy Coral. As Coral rested a moment, she was intercepted by a scarred lion that she recognized. The scarred lion stopped fighting upon seeing the scarred lioness.

Recognizing her, the scarred lion asked, "Coral, what are you doing fighting alongside heroes?"

Coral could only ask, "Rash? What are you doing here?"

Unable to fight Coral, Rash turned his attention upon the other scarred lions and lionesses. He knocked out three scarred lions and two scarred lionesses with one blow, or so they would say long afterwards. In truth, Rash knocked out a couple of scarred lions and lionesses with a few blows. The heroes felt some relief, due to this scarred lion's bravery. Rash faced Coral soon afterwards; Parker Dooley, on the other hand, couldn't help but eavesdrop.

"This is my exception, Coral, but only this once. Pray we don't meet again under graver circ*mstances," said Rash, determined to leave the battle.

Coral nodded. She wanted to say, "Then pray we don't meet under those circ*mstances." Only she lost that chance when Rash ran off all too quickly. She watched briefly as Rash fought against more scarred lions and lionesses.

Maleficent noticed then Rash's betrayal. Turning to Jadis, Maleficent informed her, "Make sure to capture that scarred lion." When Jadis moved away, Maleficent murmured, "I knew there would be trouble."

Merry was struck by one scarred lioness. Pippin, after attacking and defeating the scarred lioness, assisted Merry. Edmund and his siblings helped Merry and Pippin leave the underground cave via tunnel. Gandalf's battle against Sauron continued. During their casting of spells, Gandalf found a weak spot and attacked there. The spell Gandalf cast, using his staff, jetted towards Sauron, knocking the Dark Lord backwards. Before Maleficent could assist Sauron and attack Gandalf, he watched as Gandalf fled up the stone stairs, shooting spells here and there to slow the villains down. Just as Gandalf regrouped with the surviving heroes, Maleficent's reinforcements arrived via portal.

Maleficent cried, in agony, "It's about time you orcs showed up…" she was stopped mid-sentence as Gandalf blasted a few scarred lions and lionesses off of Reepicheep and his mice. Facing the orc battalions, Maleficent shouted, "Get them!"

o-o-o

Aslan, with one roar, opened the arena gate, long enough for Merry, Pippin, and the Pevensies to step inside the arena. Frodo, with Sam and Rosie following, approached the arriving heroes.

"Merry!" Frodo cried. Turning to Pippin, Frodo asked, "Pippin, what happened?"

Edmund answered, "We were attacked by scarred lions and lionesses. Merry was scratched by one."

Aslan said, "We'll let the healers tend to Merry's wounds." He then called for a few healers.

Harry, Ron, and Hermione approached the group, just as the healers took Merry off Pippin's hands. Pippin, wanting to assist his cousin and friend, followed the healers. Sam, not wanting to risk losing Frodo again, stayed with him as did Sam's fiancée Rosie. Harry spoke to Frodo at once:

"He should be all right. Scarred lion and lioness wounds aren't deadly… or so I read in that book."

"No," said Hermione, "but it sure will leave its mark on your friend's face, Frodo."

"Blimey, is everything concerning Frodo Baggins?" asked Ron.

Joining the group, Eustace asked, "What happened?"

Facing the boy, Frodo inquired, "My friend has been wounded. I'm sure he would appreciate the respect given to him." He walked off in search of Merry and Pippin.

Eustace asked Hermione, "You wonder what's bugging him."

Hermione said, "More than what bugs you, Eustace?" She added, "I've seen you in the library. Is it true what they say, about you as a scholar?"

"Hermione, leave Scrubb alone," said Ron.

Eustace, offended by the question, told Hermione, "You listen: everyone can say what they want about me, but I am not a scholar. I'm not sure if I want to be."

"I was only asking a question…"

Ron interrupted, "Hermione."

Hermione jumped on, asking, "What Ron?"

Ron turned her attention elsewhere. "I think, if our little friend needed help, we would give him that."

Hermione turned one final glance at Eustace, "Thank you for your time, Eustace Scrubb."

Harry paid no heed to Ron, Hermione, and Eustace. His attention was still fixed on Frodo and how he was taking to his friend's injury. Leaving the three to their discussion, Harry approached the hobbit.

Harry said, "I'm sorry. My friends…"

"They can mind their own business, Harry," said Frodo.

"I'll be all right, cousin," said Merry, right before he felt faint.

"No, you won't be, not with that wound as it is," said Frodo, remembering his own wounds.

Before Harry could get another word out, loud banging could be heard at the gate. Deciding to leave the conversation there, Harry returned to his friends. Peter and Edmund, meantime, were already prepared for the coming onslaught.

o-o-o

Minutes Ago…

With their advantage gained, Maleficent and Sauron ordered the villains to search for the heroes. Just as a few scarred lions and lionesses searched, another portal opened. Maleficent watched as Voldemort and Davy Jones entered the underground cave.

Maleficent bowed before Voldemort and Davy Jones, "Mi lord Voldemort. Davy Jones, this is an unexpected surprise. I had almost thought, for a moment, that the Horned King had forgotten to summon you. Voldemort, you seem ready to fight."

"Using other villains' powers leaves me weakened at times… but it does not cleanse my anger towards the Boy Who Lived." Voldemort asked, "Where might Harry Potter be now?"

"Hiding, with the other heroes," said Jadis, announcing herself.

"Ah, I see," said Voldemort, almost whispering. "I would like to send a message to our heroes, but it seems they already know we are here."

"Then why waste more time. Let us find them. Shall we?" asked Sauron.

"I would be obliged to do so, my lord," said Voldemort.

Sauron grunted. "Be fortunate there are those among us who still say I am a dark lord."

Mage, coming to, searched for the scarred lions and lionesses. She found them in an armory, scratching and clawing at a large wooden-and-stone gate. Cackling a little, Mage sped back to the underground cave, where she told the group of villains:

"Mi lords and ladies, we found the heroes! They're in some sort of arena!"

"Thank you, Mage. When you find the scarred lion Rash, bring him to me," said Maleficent.

Mage nodded, "As you wish."

Turning to the orcs, Sauron ordered, "Bring out the battering rams!" The orcs cackled and cheered, before taking the battering rams up one of the nearby tunnels.

o-o-o

Present…

Sneaking past the villains, Reepicheep, with his small band of mice, climbed through a hole. After crossing the narrow tunnel in the wall, Reepicheep and his mice reached the arena. They were met by Aslan, who was waiting for them.

Reepicheep said, "The Great Aslan, Maleficent has met with the villains Voldemort and Davy Jones. I'm afraid they have returned from the Netherworld."

"Then it is as I have feared. Rest now, Reepicheep. You have done well this day," said Aslan.

Frodo met with the Great Lion. "Aslan, before I forget, I read in one of the documents about me and a girl from this prophecy. I wonder… if she is the same girl from my dreams."

"So, you found out about the prophecy," said Aslan.

"I eavesdropped in on the Evil Queen's conversation with Maleficent," said Frodo.

"Then you already know what the prophecy says about you," said Aslan.

"That I have to end all evil, or help end all evil," said Frodo. "How am I to do that?"

"With time, you will understand," said Aslan.

"You aren't going to give me any advice?" asked Frodo.

"Only this: you must lead the heroes to a victory against the villains," said Aslan. "You can do it, Frodo. You have that leadership in you. Only you can find a way to making it happen. Not here, but sometime in the near future." He ended their conversation with, "We shall discuss this later." Aslan left Frodo alone to his thoughts.

Another bang sounded from the gate.

As the bangs continued, Mumble approached Gurgi. The two stood in silence for several seconds.

"Are you ready for this, Gurgi?" asked Mumble.

Gurgi turned to the fluffy Emperor penguin and said, "Gurgi is ready to take on mean, nasty villains."

Mumble looked onwards at the remaining heroes. The Amigos had decided to stay, even though Gloria and Mumble's son Erik had fled to the rendezvous point. Mumble noticed that Kovu and his family stayed as well. He hoped, in his penguin heart, they would all live to tell the tale.

o-o-o

The scarred lions and lionesses, which still lived, brought Rash over to Maleficent.

Mage said in wicked delight, "This is the traitor. He goes by the name of Rash."

Maleficent inquired to the scarred lion, "Well Rash, your deeds this day seem to stick out like a tack… that should be your new name, Tack."

Rash, now Tack, spat the ground as he said, "I hope the heroes win. I do hope Coral survives this day."

Maleficent ordered the scarred lions and lionesses, "Take this scarred lion to the dungeons, and keep him there." After watching the scarred lions and lionesses, guarding Tack, flee through a portal, Maleficent's attention returned to the situation in the armory.

The orc leader ordered, "Smash the gate down!"

o-o-o

As the bangs continued to grow louder, a few heroes returned to the arena via portal with the broken sword Seeker. Frodo watched the heroes with the sword speak to Aslan, who told them to take the sword somewhere safe. The heroes agreed, fleeing via portal with all the broken pieces. Aslan approached Frodo soon after.

"Your sword Sting is broken, they tell me," said Aslan.

Frodo nodded. "Sauron broke my sword in the underground chambers at the Merswold Camp."

"I see," said Aslan. "Well, you'll need a new sword."

"I was hoping that, if Sting could be re-forged…"

"Your sword is beyond repair, as of now. Until such a time when you can repair your sword, you can either take the sword Seeker, when it is re-forged, or wait until you find the Emerald Diadem…"

Frodo asked, "The what?"

"The Emerald Diadem can grant its bearer wishes, such as you needing Sting repaired," said Aslan. Another loud bang sounded from the gate. "Remember to look for the Emerald Diadem and you will see, but granting wishes is only one thing the diadem can do." He left Frodo alone, as he checked on the gate.

By the seventh loud bang, the gate collapsed. The villains entered the arena like swarms of flies. Many heroes fought their hardest that morning. Gandalf, along with Harry, Ron, and Hermione, jetted as many spells at the villains as they could. The Pevensies fought with valor, as did Reepicheep as his mice. Jadis entered the fray, causing Edmund to immediately engage in battle against her. Harry, with help from his friends, fought against Voldemort. Davy Jones began his search for Jack Sparrow, but found the pirate captain was nowhere near the battle. Frodo, finding he couldn't fight with a broken sword, narrowly retreated from the fight. He was stopped by Sauron, who appeared ready to attack the hobbit. Only when Aslan called for silence did the fighting stop.

Amidst the silence, Sauron bellowed, "Who dares challenge me?"

Aslan stepped forward, "I do not wish to fight this day, but I will if I must as I hope it means the end of the battle." Facing Sauron, Aslan told him, "We don't have to fight here. End this battle before more blood is shed."

"And what of Baggins?" asked Sauron. "I'm supposed to just leave him to you." He added, "Why test me?"

"Ask yourself that question and you will understand the cost of your folly," said Aslan.

Without waiting for an answer, Sauron extended his hand. The spell Sauron cast caused Frodo to choke, as he felt his chest was caving in on itself. Aslan stopped the attack with a fierce roar. Sauron released Frodo from his invisible grasp.

Sauron nodded. "Do with what you will to the Halfling." He departed thereafter, with several confused villains following him. Sauron whispered in Maleficent's ear, "Make sure these heroes are followed. And send the villains up to the surface." He heard Maleficent's cackle.

Frodo remained conscious, long enough to see Sauron and the villains leave the arena. He fell into darkness, remembering nothing afterwards.

Chapter 9: 8: Rendezvous

Chapter by Aria Breuer (Aria_Breuer)

Chapter Text

Chapter Eight:

Rendezvous

From the surface, Remy and the rats in the kitchen pavilion felt the ground rumble. Remy told the rats, "Make ready to attack!"

The rumblings continued. Eventually, one of the trap doors opened. The rats worked quickly to close the trap door, but to no avail. Fortunately, Aslan was there to ensure that no villains attacked the surface. He was too late, as the tents and pavilions were attacked.

"Prepare for a rendezvous. The villains aren't keeping their word," said Aslan.

Remy nodded. "Right, Aslan."

The trap door opened, causing the villains to attack the kitchen pavilion.

o-o-o

Frodo woke to the sound of smithy hammers. Moving off the bed, Frodo found he was inside a dwarfish bedroom. The architecture of the room, even along the walls, reminded Frodo of his journey through Moria with the first Fellowship, better known as the Fellowship of the Ring. On a wooden bookshelf, one particular golden orb caught his attention. He picked up the orb and examined it with his good eye. The orb appeared to have an image of the girl he had been dreaming about, except she was wearing a red robed dress with golden frills…

"Are you done looking at that?" asked a dwarf. He startled the hobbit. "That bauble can predict the future, lad, or so a fellow dwarf told me. You must be a relation to Bilbo Baggins." He bowed before the hobbit, as he said, "Bofur, at your service."

Frodo bowed back, "I'm Frodo Baggins at yours." He noticed Bofur chuckling. "What?"

"You need not bow before me, lad," said Bofur.

Frodo asked, after a moment's passing, "Where are we?"

"We're in the Blue Mountains. Balin has been expecting you for some time," said Bofur. He dragged Frodo out of the bedroom and down a long dwarfish-made hall.

As they left the hall and entered a dwarfish city, Frodo asked, "Where are we exactly?"

"Eh, we're at the dwarven city Belegost. The finest city ever crafted," answered Bofur. Leading the way, he cried, "Come on. We're wasting time chattering."

Throughout the city, Frodo saw many dwarves, both men and women. Some dwarves were with their children. One group of dwarves that passed them carried smithy hammers, while some carried anvils. Bofur greeted each dwarf that passed them. Eventually, Bofur and Frodo arrived at a dwarven palace. Inside the two were escorted by other dwarves towards Balin's house. Balin greeted Bofur first. He then turned his attention to Frodo.

Balin said, "I knew your uncle, Bilbo Baggins. He was a good friend to me on our travels." Balin pulled out before the hobbit a sword in its sheath. "Bilbo wanted you to have this sword."

Frodo could only say, "I don't think I should…"

"Nonsense," said Balin. "Bilbo wanted you to have it. You deserve such a prized sword."

Frodo took the short sword. Recognizing the sheath as Sting's, he pulled out the sword. He did not have to pull out much, for the sword was broken yet its blade still glowed blue. Looking up, Frodo saw orcs and Sauron. He turned, only to find the scenery had changed from dwarven halls to an orc campsite. The sky above had changed also, from bright blue to a charcoal grey with roiling clouds. Frodo faced Sauron again, only to see the dark lord grinning at him.

"We meet again, Baggins," said Sauron. He pulled out a sword, and stabbed Frodo in the chest.

Frodo awoke in an instant. His head throbbed, as did his chest. As Edmund and Sam stayed with him, Frodo checked his belt to find Sting missing.

"Where's my sword?" asked Frodo.

Aslan approached the hobbit. "Frodo, your sword has been taken by the blacksmiths. They'll see what they can do to re-forge it."

Hesitant, Frodo nodded in approval. "Thank you, Aslan."

Aslan said, "Until all the pieces to your short sword are found, you may be interested in a new sword." As if on cue, Aslan watched Reepicheep and his mice drag the re-forged short sword Seeker towards Frodo. "No longer is its name Seeker, but Finder; may it serve you well in battle. It glows bright green when something hidden is found."

"Aslan… I don't know if I should take this sword," said Frodo, picking up the sword from the pebbled ground.

Aslan only said, "Frodo, you are worthy now to carry Finder; may it bless you on your travels, as I have." He was stopped by a voice behind him. "I should go. The campsite is being attacked."

Frodo asked, confused, "What?"

"The villains haven't kept their word. We need to rendezvous," said Edmund.

"Master Frodo, you can use the sword Finder to find a way out of here," said Sam.

"What will you do?" asked Frodo, clutching his friend's arm.

"Rosie and I have another way out of these chasms," said Sam. "Good luck, Master Frodo."

Frodo reluctantly pulled out the sword Finder, only to find the blade already glow a bright green. He did not need to search for long, for he found a hidden passage beneath the stands. The sword glowed even brighter. Deciding to take his chances, Frodo made his way through the tunnel.

o-o-o

The tunnel wound on like a snake. The walls, ceiling, and floor were made from stone, as if the earth carved the tunnel. Eventually, the tunnel came out to a white, sandy beach. Frodo recognized the beach as the same one he had first come across when he arrived at the Evenshire Camp. His tent wasn't far from the spot. Leaving the beach, Frodo made his way back to the encampment.

When he reached the campsite, an explosion sounded. Frodo was thrown back a few feet, straight towards his tent. Shaking himself off from the blow, Frodo slowly stood up. He was met by Reepicheep, who looked in a hurry.

"Frodo, we're regrouping elsewhere. Your things are already packed," explained Reepicheep, quickly.

"Thank you," said Frodo.

Entering his tent, Frodo found, as Reepicheep had said, his clothes and his quiver all ready. It was the same quiver Legolas had given to him on his journey. He remembered taking the quiver, but never using it, on his journey to and from the Merswold Camp. Frodo stuffed his clothes inside a brown, leather pack, before he closed the pack and slung it, and the quiver, over his shoulders.

Outside, Frodo trudged towards the white, sandy beach. Aslan was waiting for him. Frodo advanced towards the Lion. He was unsure whether it was the best time to speak to him again.

"Frodo," said Aslan.

Frodo asked, "When do we leave?"

Aslan looked at the hobbit, "You will leave by ship. Jack Sparrow knows the location. There's a boat over there. I will meet up with you later."

"Wait, Aslan. You expect me to sail with a bunch of corsairs?" asked Frodo.

"Since you mean pirates, then yes," said Aslan. "I'm returning to the Evenshire Camp. Good luck."

"I do hope so," said Frodo.

Leaving the Lion, Frodo made his way towards a large wooden boat, already filling up fast with heroes. Among the heroes were the four Pevensies. Eustace was missing among them.

Peter asked the hobbit, "Your friends couldn't make it?"

"Sam and Pippin must be with Merry," said Frodo. "Where's Eustace?"

"He's headed to another rendezvous point, different from where we're headed," explained Susan.

"Eustace won't be joining us?" asked Lucy, concerned.

"I'm afraid not, Lu," said Edmund.

When every hero and pirate was accounted for, Peter helped row the boat towards Jack Sparrow's ship, theBlack Pearl. The ride across the bay proved solemn in Frodo's eyes. The waves knocked at the boat, ascending and descending with each crash. Frodo watched the water as it turned crystal blue, almost like glass. He looked back once to see the villains, including Sauron, watching the boats leave shore. Sauron glared as the boats skimmed the water. Soon enough, the boat reached thePearl. Susan and Lucy climbed up the ladder first. They were followed by their brothers, with Frodo following last. Once all the heroes and pirates were on the ship, the boat was raised.

Jack Sparrow, seeing the women aboard, screamed, "No!No women allowed on this ship! That is my first order! That is my only order."

"Haven't you allowed women on this ship before?" asked Susan.

"Yes, but that is a different story; one I will be obliged not to repeat," said Jack.

"Then what difference does it make whether we are on this ship or not?" asked Lucy.

"Young lady, don't you know you ask one too many questions?" asked Jack.

"Captain!" cried an elderly man. "We've got another ship sailing towards the bay."

"Mr. Gibbs, let's not waste time. Let's move the Pearl out of the bay," said Jack.

"Aye, Captain," said Mr. Gibbs.

As the ship moved, Frodo pulled out from his jacket pocket a silver ring. He recalled vividly that the ring belonged to Mother Nature. He wondered whether he would meet her.

o-o-o

On the opposing ship, theJolly Roger, Mr. Smee checked his telescope. He was much surprised to see another ship coming towards them. He alerted the captain.

"Captain Hook, there's another ship in the bay," said Mr. Smee.

"Blast that ship, too," said Hook. "I'll find Peter Pan, even if I have to explore every bay there is."

"But Captain, isn't Peter Pan…"

"There's no time to waste, Mr. Smee," said Hook. He ordered his men to ready the cannons.

The ship with black sails traveled closer to theJolly Roger.

Peering through the same telescope, Mr. Smee told his captain, "There are women aboard the enemy ship."

Hook asked, "Oddsfish! How can there be women aboard a ship?" He grabbed the telescope from Mr. Smee's hands. Holding the telescope, Hook looked in shock at the scene: "That ship with black sails does have women aboard."

"It's a cursed ship," said one of the pirates.

"Blast it anyway," said Hook, determined to get rid of the enemy ship. He murmured, "No cursed ship is getting past me."

Hook's crew, meantime, prepared the cannons.

o-o-o

"Captain, they're loading cannons," said Mr. Gibbs.

"Then we load ours," said Jack.

Frodo intervened. "Wait, Jack, maybe they mean us no harm." He spoke up, "Look, maybe one of us could talk to them. Maybe they'll stop firing."

Jack shook his head. "No. You see, lad: this is a pirate ship and that is a pirate ship, too. There'll be no use striking our colors or calling out 'parlay'." He ordered his crew, "Prepare the cannons!"

Before either ship could blast one another, a mighty wind sent Jack's ship out of the bay and into a portal. The crew and passengers held on to what part of the ship was immovable, including rope ladders. Leaving the portal, thePearlentered unfamiliar waters. Jack recovered from the flight, only to come face-to-face with Aslan.

Jack protested, "Aslan, I had that ship. I was about to blow it up for good knows what…"

Aslan roared. "Jack Sparrow, I know you are trying to run a ship, but it is urgent these heroes reach their destination. As does your friend-enemy Barbossa, who will need to return to the Caribbean, as do you."

"Barbossa is here?" asked Jack, all too soon.

Barbossa stepped forward with a glowing look. "It's been so long since I've been aboard my ship." He spoke directly to Jack. "How have you been, Jack? Last time we met, you nearly killed me."

"On the contrary, I intended to kill you merely for following me," said Jack.

Aslan asked, matter-of-fact, "Jack, Barbossa can we come under an agreement that you will respect each other, while the heroes are aboard this ship?"

"Fine," said Jack. Raising a hand, he asked Barbossa, "Do we have an accord?"

Barbossa took the hand. "Since we're under the same issue, we have an agreement." He released Jack's hand. "So where might we be sailing?"

Aslan pointed out, "You will sail for a headquarters. One such headquarters lies along a cliff face."

"What headquarters, Aslan?" asked Frodo, curious but unsure if he needed the answer.

"The Animal Headquarters, Frodo," said Aslan.

Jack announced, "So, we're sailing to a base loaded with wild animals? It could not get any worse."

Aslan said last, "Then I wish you luck on your journey." He then vanished through a portal.

Jack said to his crew, "See? I told you that Lion wouldn't damage my ship."

"It's my ship, Jack," said Barbossa.

Jack and Barbossa continued their argument over who was the rightful captain of theBlack Pearl. Frodo soon lost interest in the two pirate captains. As the waves crashed against the ship, Frodo's thoughts drifted: he wondered about the girl from his strange dreams, and whether she was truly involved in the same prophecy as him. He wondered about the fate of both Fellowships and whether he would ever see his companions again. Eventually, Frodo grew tired of seeing the open ocean. Finding a spot to sit down on deck, Frodo waited until he fell asleep. He dreamed of the sea and a white tower. He had one occurrence of seeing the same girl, but it was brief.

Chapter 10: 9: Animal Headquarters

Chapter by Aria Breuer (Aria_Breuer)

Chapter Text

Chapter Nine:

Animal Headquarters

A pirate in the crow's nest cried: "Land ho!"

Frodo awoke with a start. Peering from the wooden railing, Frodo saw a massive cliff-faced wall, made from natural cut stone. From where he stood on deck, Frodo saw blinks of bright glass light beaming here and there on the cliff wall. Before he thought this was all there was, a shuttered metallic door, disguised as part of the cliff face, opened before their eyes.

Jack announced, "Well, now its time we parted ways."

"You're not coming?" asked Frodo, as the others prepared a longboat.

Jack shook his head. "I'm not in the mood to meet with a bunch of talking animals."

Frodo nodded.

Jack spoke up, stopping Frodo in his tracks, "Frodo… good luck to you."

Frodo said, "And to you, Jack." He asked, "Will we meet again?"

"I rather doubt it, lad," said Jack.

Frodo waved a final farewell to the pirate captain. He boarded the longboat with the Pevensies and other heroes, moments before the longboat was lowered. As soon as the longboat hit the water's surface, the pulleys were detached. Frodo watched the vessel, theBlack Pearl, as it sailed away, vanishing through a silver-lined portal minutes later. All that remained from thePearlwas the longboat, which was rowed by Peter Pevensie.

Minutes passed before Peter rowed the longboat inside a large watery cave. Once inside, the shuttered door closed before the group. Frodo climbed out of the longboat first, with the others following. The group grabbed torches from their packs. After one torch was lit, the heroes gathered to light the other torches. The Pevensies and the other heroes, except Frodo, made their way towards a silver-lined portal. Some heroes, including animals, entered the cave from this portal.

Before the Pevensies crossed the portal, Frodo asked them, "You're leaving… so soon?"

Edmund approached the hobbit. "Yeah, we're leaving. We've got to find Eustace. If we come to an agreement to return to this base, you'll be one of the first to know." He embraced him for a few moments. Releasing his grip, Edmund said, "Good luck with them animals. They're a handful."

"Good luck to you, Edmund," said Frodo, watching the boy king leave the cave via portal with his siblings. Frodo watched, from where he stood, as Coral and his four hobbit friends entered the cave via an opposing portal. Frodo asked, "Where have you five been?"

"That's what I get for asking directions from a rat. Remy's no help at all," complained Coral.

Setting Merry down on a rock, Pippin said, "Merry needs healing."

Coral spoke, "I'll go find the healers!" She fled through one of the opened doorways. She was gone for several minutes. When she returned, she brought a few bear healers with her. "There!" She said to one of the healers.

One of the bear healers told the hobbits, "We'll take good care of him. He'll be healed in no time."

"Not with wounds as deep as these," said another bear healer. Turning to Merry, the bear healer asked, "What did you do? Run into some scarred lions and lionesses?" Without waiting for another word, the bear picked up Merry and carried him out of the cave. He noticed the other hobbits, and Coral, followed him.

Inside a large healer's chamber, the healers tended to Merry's deep gash wounds across his face. The four hobbits waited in the first room of the healing chamber. Coral met up with them minutes later, but with a lioness the hobbits hadn't yet met.

Coral said in introduction, "Hobbits, this lioness is Melena, my eldest sister."

Frodo stood up. He spoke to the new lioness, "Hullo. I'm Frodo Baggins."

"Yes, I supposed as much. Coral's told me enough about you, but I've already heard of you," said Melena.

"You have?" asked Coral.

Melena eyed her sister. "Yes Coral. News does travel fast in this part of the limbo world Peradus." She asked, "I'm surprised you waited until now to show up, Coral."

Coral started, "Well…"

"I could give these hobbits a tour of the headquarters. If that's all right with them?" asked Melena.

"We're waiting until we hear news concerning Merry," said Pippin.

"I'll go with her," said Frodo, standing up.

Sam nearly protested, but was held back by Rosie.

"Go, Frodo. You may need to walk around anyway," said Rosie. "We'll stay and wait to hear word of Merry's condition."

Melena turned to Coral. In a sharp tone, Melena said, "We'll talk later." She then escorted Frodo out of the healing chamber. Once outside the healing chamber and down the hallway, Melena asked, "Was that hobbit your cousin?"

"Who, Pippin?" asked Frodo. "He's my cousin, yes. Sam, however, is my friend. Same with Rosie, only she's Sam's fiancée." He asked this time, "Why do you ask?"

"I was curious is all," said Melena. She added, "I heard you didn't get a fair full tour of the Evenshire Camp. Allow me to give you one now, since we have time."

"Um… sure," said Frodo, "Why not?"

"Excellent," said Melena. Without waiting for another word, Melena showed Frodo the different areas of the headquarters.

o-o-o

Entering the armory, Frodo and Melena find Melissa and Nash already present. The two hobbits spoke to a brown cat and a silvery-gray tabby cat. They ended their conversation fast upon seeing Melena and Frodo standing before them.

Melena announced, "And this is the armory and weaponry rooms at the Animal Headquarters."

"And I thought the kitchen was huge," said Frodo. He glimpsed at Melena, who chuckled giddily.

"Well, look whose here. Frodo Baggins. Isn't it?" asked Melissa, gloating.

Frodo asked Melena, "Why is she always trying to put me down?"

"Last I heard, Melissa was one of your many 'adoring' fans," said Melena. "She's lived here for most of her life."

"How did she come to stay here? I thought Melissa came from the Shire," asked Frodo, confused.

"Well, if anyone knows the true story, as I do, Melissa chose to be here. You see, her parents abandoned her after one of the battles. I think it was the Battle of Greenfields, if that's the correct battle… maybe it is. Anyway, rumor has it her parents searched for her, but they couldn't find her. Melissa was age six when this happened to her. One of the talking animals found her and brought her here. Melissa keeps going on about a horse bringing her here, which I believe is the truth. She hasn't been back to the Shire since, but she did learn that Bullroarer Took, among the many brave hobbits, won the Battle of Greenfields," explained Melissa.

Frodo said, "So, her upbringing in this headquarters… that's what drove her to be like this."

Melena shrugged. "No one knows the exact reason why she snapped. Maybe she remembers, or maybe she doesn't." She continued her explanation, "Nash was in the same state. They didn't meet until recently, at the Terrabay Camp, or so Nash remembers. Now Nash, too, went through a different experience from Melissa. Nash's parents left him before he came of age. Yet, somehow, he managed to show up here. From his account, Nash said a wild animal dragged him to this headquarters, only a few months before Melissa shows up. Melissa believes it was a butterfly that brought him here, but butterflies aren't ones to aide people, except those that need the healing."

Frodo asked, "What happened to Melissa and Nash, while they've been here?"

Melena explained further, "They ran into some new friends, allies, even bullies. Yet they've learned to keep their place here; Melissa less than Nash. Not much else to tell, really, unless you hear it from them. They did run into some Nobodies at one point."

"What are Nobodies?" asked Frodo.

Melena explained last, "Nobodies are beings without hearts. Some, I've heard, are able to shape-shift between human to creature, while others are known to possess talents. Actually, that may be all of them. Basically, they're born from people who have lost their hearts. The latest I've heard is they're born from people who have lost their innocence, or were wounded in battle. You might even have some Nobodies hanging around." She said, "Oh, and don't mind Melissa. She can't stand hearing about Nobodies."

"I shouldn't be surprised," said Frodo. He then asked, "How many weapons and armor do you have here?"

The silver-gray tabby cat told him, "This room is the entrance. There's more armor and weapons inside."

Melena introduced the brown cat to Frodo, "Eh Frodo, this is Aristotle, Aries for short," and the silver-grey tabby cat, "and his wife Tabitha."

"Pleased to meet you both," said Frodo to the two cats.

"Same to you, Mr. Baggins," said Aristotle.

"Well, come now. Are we going to keep standing here talking, or shall we look at the weapons?" asked Tabitha. She gladly showed the three into the next room. She told Frodo, "Feel free to browse. If you see a weapon you like, we'll do what we can."

"Thank you, kindly," said Frodo. He heard gunshots in the next room, "What was that?"

"I told you. Melissa's practically lived here. I'm sure, after years of practice, she's managed to hit a few bulls-eyes with that pistol of hers," said Melena.

"I heardthat, Melena!" shouted Melissa, furious.

To Frodo's amazement, the whole room and the next were stocked with weapons and armor. Frodo scanned through each room, examining the weapons and armor with close attention. He was impressed with how beautiful the swords, knives, and daggers looked, but was more impressed by the armor. Some of the armor appeared to fit from Hobbits to Men, to Animals and Creatures. After a time, Melena waited until Frodo was finished before leading him out of the weapons and armor rooms. Frodo left both rooms with great reluctance, yet thanked the two cats. Tabitha told Frodo on his way out:

"Don't you be a stranger!" said Tabitha. "I hope you return. It was a nice visit."

By Melena's call, Frodo replied to the silver-grey tabby cat, "I'm sure we'll meet again." He left the armory and weaponry on good terms with Aristotle and Tabitha.

Hours passed.

After a while, Melena decided to show the four hobbits to their sleeping quarters. Pippin attempted to stay behind and keep watch of Merry. Melena nearly protested against this, but was outmatched by Coral and the hobbits. Tired, the hobbits agreed to follow Melena. One by one, the hobbits left Merry in the healing chamber. Pippin looked on Merry, who was sleeping in one of the beds, one last time before following the group.

They climbed up two flights of grand stairs before reaching the sleeping quarters, already set up for the hobbits. Frodo hardly noticed what was in his room as he closed the door to his room, changed, and climbed into bed. Due to the softness of the mattress, or so Frodo thought, Frodo fell asleep in an instant.

o-o-o

Midnight had long passed. Yet Coral continued following her elder sister Melena down the passageways.

"Do you even know where you're going?" asked Coral. "What's the whole point of this venture?"

Melena shushed her. "Hush! We're almost there." When they reached the last tunnel, Melena explained, "You wanted to know the fate of your scarred lion and lioness leader. Well, they may have information vital to the survival of the Animal Headquarters."

"Why should I not be surprised," said Coral.

"Why did you come back?" asked Melena, curious and suspicious.

"I was assisting Frodo during his quest," said Coral.

"Yes, that's true. But… why did you come back? You could have stayed a villain," said Melena.

"I guess it just dawned on me. Besides, you have to give the heroes some credit. If it weren't for them-"

Melena cut her off with a paw. "We're here." Approaching one of the guards, Melena asked, "How are they?"

"Same as always," said the lion guard. "As usual, they've received no visitors."

"Well, consider Coral one visitor for them," said Melena, turning to her sister.

The lion guard shrugged. "Suit yourself. It's not like they're going to talk." The lion guard awoke the scarred lion and lioness inside, "Say Vacron, Vasis, you have company." The lion guard faced the two lionesses. "Now, when you go in, I have to close the door. Good luck in there, as you may need it."

"Thanks," said Coral, as the dungeon door opened.

Once Melena and Coral were inside the dungeon, the door was closed and locked by the lion guard. Melena stopped Coral before she could approach the scarred lion and lioness. Both the scarred lion and lioness did not appear in the mood for company.

Coral murmured aloud, "Um… are you Vacron and Vasis?"

The scarred lion said in introduction, "No, I'm Vacron." He pointed to the scarred lioness. "That there is Vasis."

"You," said Vasis, pointing to Coral. "They spoke of you, how you betrayed the scarred lions and lionesses. Your brother should be joining us soon."

"I don't have a brother," said Coral, "Only sisters."

"Oh, youhavea brother. Recall the name Rash?" asked Vasis. "He'll be joining us soon, unless the villains have put him elsewhere."

"Even if that were true, we wouldn't know where to start," said Melena. "What we came here for is information, information that may help this headquarters." She then asked, "Do you know of the Emerald Diadem?"

Confused, Coral asked, "The what?"

Vacron chuckled. "You may want to try the wilderness. The only way you'll find that diadem is if you travel to the place where winter meets spring. That's all I can tell you of it."

"Did the Halfling, Frodo Baggins, survive the villains?" asked Vasis.

"How do you know about him?" asked Coral.

"News travels even to the dungeons, my friend," said Vasis.

"Well, thank you for the information," said Melena. "Coral, we're leaving." She spoke to the lion guard as he opened the door.

"We'll give our regards to your brother, Rash, when we see him. Like you, he's probably already decided against staying with the villains," said Vasis.

As they left the cavern cell, Coral asked Melena, "Do we really have a brother?"

Melena replied, "I hardly know. Mother didn't tell us much of our other relatives. Come on. We should head back." She led Coral out of the dungeons, back through the passageways leading up to the ground level of the headquarters.

Chapter 11: 10: Unexpected Guests

Chapter by Aria Breuer (Aria_Breuer)

Chapter Text

Chapter Ten:

Unexpected Guests

A few weeks passed before Merry was released from the healing chamber. Within that time, more heroes entered the Animal Headquarters. Frodo was reunited with heroes as the Pevensies, Harry, Ron, and Hermione. Melena, in assistance with the Animal leaders of the headquarters, announced the Animal Headquarters would put on a welcome ball to those heroes staying at the base.

Once Merry was released, he decided it was time to check on Melissa. Frodo was as reluctant as Sam and Pippin about seeing Melissa. They weren't sure who Melissa would talk to, now that Nash was more influential in her life. Rosie, on the other hand, decided to stay behind to chat with a few heroes. Down one of the hallways, Frodo and his friends stopped in front of a closed door. One of the voices on the other side of the door belonged to Melissa:

"Azeroth is mine!" cried Melissa in excitement.

Frodo whispered to his friends, "All right. We found Melissa." He opened the door.

Inside the living room of the suite, there was a Siamese cat and a gold tabby cat playing a video game on a television screen. A hobbit was sitting on the chair, opposite the couch where the two cats sat. His appearance looked similar to Frodo. The second the cats and the hobbit heard someone enter the room, they paused the game.

Merry asked, "Have any of you seen Melissa? I know I heard her in here."

"I'm Melissa," said the Siamese cat. "Melissa Snowberry." She added, grunting, "I should have realized you would find me here."

"That's sounds like her," said Frodo, turning to Merry.

Merry, ignoring his cousin, asked the Siamese cat, "What game were you playing?"

"Merry, don't encourage her…"

Melissa interrupted Frodo. She answered Merry's question with, "Nash and I were playing 'World of Warcraft'. It just came out." She pointed to the gold tabby cat as she spoke. She added, pointing out the hobbit seated on the chair, "Oh, and the hobbit with us is Ronnie Buckley. He thinks he's a Baggins, but I'm sure that can't be true."

"Thank you for considering me," said Ronnie, sharply.

Merry said once more to Melissa, "I didn't know you could shape shift into an animal."

"There's a lot about me you wouldn't know," said Melissa.

"This is a waste of time," said Frodo. "Merry, come on. We're leaving."

"Actually, I think I'll stay here and watch Melissa play her game," said Merry.

Frodo stopped in his tracks. "Merry, you can't be serious. There's something about Melissa that no one, including her, has told us."

"I still wish to stay with Melissa, if that's all right, cousin," said Merry, serious.

"I'll stay with Merry," said Pippin, facing Frodo.

Frodo sighed in regret, "Very well." Turning to Ronnie, Frodo asked him, "Mr. Buckley, do you mind keeping watch of my cousin."

Stunned, Ronnie told Frodo, "What?" He grunted. "I don't babysit people's cousins."

Nash spoke, "Come on, Ronnie."

Ronnie said, stubborn, "No 'come on'. I'm not taking responsibility for this lot."

Melissa murmured, "Sure is better than what those bears would do…"

"What was that?" asked Ronnie. "I know you said something, Melissa, if that's your true name."

Melissa said, sharply, "You should know."

"All right, we'll be leaving now," said Frodo, sheepish.

Relieved, Ronnie said, "Finally!" He paid no heed to the other hobbits after the game was un-paused.

o-o-o

As Frodo and Sam travelled down the hallway, the two hobbits spotted Harry, Ron, and Hermione standing in front of a portrait. The two hobbits approached the trio as the knight standing in the portrait spotted them.

"Who are these newcomers? Come to challenge Sir Cadogan!" said the knight in the portrait.

"No, they're friends," said Harry.

"So, the portraits do move here," said Frodo. "How do you know this portrait?"

"Sir Cadogan's portrait was at Hogwarts, unless…"

"I was thinking that, too, Hermione." Ron spoke to the portrait, "Excuse me, but is your portrait connected to the one at Hogwarts?"

"I say that it is, since I have traversed these portraits here and the ones at Hogwarts. Fine institution that school is, I must say," said Sir Cadogan.

"See?" asked Harry, facing Frodo for a moment.

"Remember fair lads and ladies, should you ever need my help, simply call for Sir Cadogan," said Sir Cadogan. He went off in search of his grey pony.

"Sure, if we ever need anyone mental," said Ron. Turning to Harry and Hermione, Ron spoke, "Let's leave this portrait."

"I still don't understand how this institute has a portrait of Sir Cadogan," said Hermione, thinking hard.

Before Sam could stop him, Frodo asked the portrait, "Um… Sir Cadogan, I might need your assistance."

"A quest?" asked Sir Cadogan, eager. "What be this venture you ask?"

"I need you to check and make sure Merry is all right. I'm worried about my cousin," said Frodo.

"It is a quest! Never fear! I shall not fail you," said Sir Cadogan, as he searched again for his pony.

Sam got Frodo's attention. "You didn't have to do that."

"What? I'm worried about Merry. I don't trust Melissa anymore than you," said Frodo.

"Yes, but to spy on them. Isn't it a bit much?" asked Sam, concerned.

"I'm sure Merry will understand," said Frodo, noticing Sir Cadogan disappear from his portrait.

"I don't know, Master Frodo," said Sam. "Master Merry's not one to enjoy being spied on."

"We'll just have to trust Sir Cadogan makes it there and back with the news," said Frodo.

Later that afternoon, long after Melissa transforms back into a hobbit, Merry meets Melissa before a balcony. The two eventually spurred into a long conversation, which seemed to not end. Eventually, Melissa spoke of the prophecy:

"Merry, I'm not sure whether the prophecy mentioned my future daughter. It may have been yours, but I can't be sure…"

Merry interrupted her, "What did this particular prophecy say?"

"Well, it went something like this…

"A girl, born as a hobbit
Would come of age and fight the battle long lost
Another hobbit would help her
And evil would end for good.

"I'm not even sure what it means," said Melissa. "There isn't any mention of me or you. Although, I get this funny feeling that the prophecy speaks of Frodo Baggins."

"Well, Frodo isn't here. Is he?" asked Merry.

"No, but…" Melissa stopped talking the second Merry kissed her. For a moment, all seemed well until Melissa's mind turned to thoughts of Nash. When the kiss broke, Melissa told Merry, "Did you feel anything?"

"I – I can't be sure. I mean, it was a good kiss, but…"

Melissa finished his sentence. "There wasn't anything there. Was there?"

"I'm afraid not. I'm sorry," said Merry.

Melissa nodded. "No, it's fine. I was just…"

From one of the nearby portraits, Merry and Melissa heard Sir Cadogan as he spoke, "What dastardly villains are here? None… oh rubbish."

As Melissa walked away, Merry asked her, "We can still be friends. Can't we, Melissa?"

"I think I need to be with my thoughts for a while, Merry," said Melissa. "I'm sorry."

Merry said, "No, its fine. I'll see you around." After Melissa left, Merry asked the knight in the portrait. "All right, I know my cousin Frodo is checking up on me. How is he?"

"Your cousin is as bright as days. Why do you ask?" asked Sir Cadogan.

"Because I need to send a message back to him," said Merry. "Tell him I'm fine and I'm not thinking of Melissa. I'll talk to him later."

"On my way," said Sir Cadogan, fleeing the portrait by pony.

Early the next morning, Merry met with his friends at the headquarters' diner. There, he explained what happened the previous night and why he suddenly had thoughts of Estella Bolger. His story ended fast the second he saw Melissa entering the diner with Nash.

Frodo, getting Merry's attention back, said, "Those two are a better match." He whispered in Merry's ear, "Nash Wimble reminds me of you, Merry."

"Do you think so?" asked Merry, curious.

"From the way he speaks and his behavior reminds me of you," said Frodo.

Just then, Pippin's gaze falls on a female hobbit with locks of blond hair. Pippin tells the hobbits, "If you'll excuse me…" Pippin approached the hobbit lass.

Frodo shook his head. "Well, we lose another hobbit."

As soon as Sam catches Rosie's eye, he tells the two hobbits, "Pardon me." He left the table to join Rosie.

Merry, seeing Pippin in a bit of a rough spot, tells Frodo, "I should assist Pippin." He left Frodo alone at the table.

Taking a swig from his mug, Frodo stated, "I'm alone again." He stopped drinking, upon hearing a deep bellow.

Standing up, Frodo headed towards the entrance/exit of the diner. Before he reached the door, Frodo heard the same bellow. Whatever made the bellow drew closer. Frodo moved away from the door as the sound of the bellow stopped. Coming out of the diner, Frodo heard one of the Animals say to whomever they spoke to:

"We'll have to bring the Hulk back to the others he was with…"

Frodo followed the sounds for a while. After crossing a few hallways, Frodo came across a room that was technological. A man with cropped raven hair was in the room, along with a man with mullet blonde hair and another man with cropped blondish-brown hair. All three were talking about this Hulk creature, which left Frodo clueless. He was soon spotted by the trio. Before Frodo could dash off, the man with the blondish-brown hair, wearing a red-white-and-blue costume, called to him:

"It's all right! We won't hurt you."

Frodo entered the room slowly. Cautious, Frodo asked the three, "What are you doing here?"

"Checking the calibrations on…" The man with the raven hair continued his scientific rambling. Eventually, he spoke to Frodo, "Oh, I'm surprised you're still here. Most of these Animals and heroes have left us alone."

"Of course I'm still here. What did you expect? I would take off," said Frodo.

The man with the raven hair replied, "As a matter of interest, yes." Facing the hobbit, the man asked, "Who are you?"

"Frodo Baggins. Who might you three be?" asked Frodo, out of curiosity.

The man with the mullet blonde hair spoke. "My name is Thor."

The man with the blondish-brown hair spoke next. "I'm Steve Rogers, also known as Captain America." He pointed to the man with the raven hair. "That is Tony Stark or Iron Man."

"Does he already know about the Hulk? Big green guy that just flew down these halls again," said Tony, as he set another calibration from a thin, large screen. He received no response. "Oh, I guess not."

"What are you doing in here?" asked Frodo.

Tony faced the hobbit. "If you are who you say you are, and correct me if I'm wrong, you shouldn't be here, not even alive."

"Tony," said Captain America. "Watch it."

"What do you mean?" asked Frodo, keeping his gaze on Tony Stark.

"Let me put it this way: I've read the book where you came from. You should be dead by now. Like not even around," said Tony. "This world doesn't need hobbits."

Somber, Frodo said, "It doesn't? Why doesn't it need hobbits? I'm sure there's plenty of reasons to have hobbits around, isn't there?"

"Do you not understand? You're lucky to be alive, but hobbits have always been a pain. And not just because of your size, although you certainly look like you need people caring for you," said Tony.

"Tony, I believe you're scaring him," said Captain America.

"I'll escort him out," said Thor.

"Thank you," said Tony, going back to his work.

Thor spoke to Frodo, the moment they were out in the hallway, "I never understood him."

"Is it true? Am I really… dead by the end of a book?" asked Frodo.

"I hardly know what either of you speak of. I'm not sure which book he means," said Thor. "Should you ever need my help, feel free to ask. And here we are." He led Frodo back to the diner.

Frodo faced Thor as the Asgardian left, "Thank you for caring. You seem one of the few that does."

Thor waved farewell to the hobbit, before he returned to the room where Captain America and Iron Man were inside. Returning to the diner, Frodo caught up with his friends over recent details. Frodo learned that Merry's eye had now caught the hobbit lass named Victoria. Pippin's eye was also on Victoria. After eating dinner, Frodo returned to his room. Before he entered his room, Frodo learned the group called the Avengers had left the headquarters. What their purpose was, Frodo hadn't a clue. He slept peacefully that night.

Meanwhile…

Returning to the Disney Castle, King Mickey received another summons. He made his way quickly to a balcony, where Aslan and Yen Sid were already waiting for him.

King Mickey said, "This had better be good. This is twice now I've been summoned." Bowing before Aslan, Mickey asked him, "What news have you brought, Aslan?"

"I'm afraid we bring tragic news as well," said Yen Sid.

Aslan, after raising his head, told King Mickey, "The battle may have been won by my paw, but we lost the Evenshire Camp to the villains. Many heroes evacuated from the camp in recent weeks. Those that have remained at the camp are doing all they can to prevent another attack."

"Well, that's not good," said Mickey. "What can we do?"

"We can't do anything to help those remaining heroes," said Yen Sid.

"No, but I will protect those heroes in anyway I can. I'm sure my Father will accept these terms," said Aslan.

"Gosh! Isn't there anything I can do?" asked Mickey.

"As you know, Frodo Baggins helped save the worlds," said Aslan. "If you could find a way to meet up with the hobbit, then that would be appreciated. I'll do what I can to freeze Time here, but you must make the journey yourself."

Mickey said, exuberantly, "I'll see what I can do." He remembered, "Oh, how am I supposed to know who the Halfling is?"

"He will come to you when he can," said Aslan.

As Mickey ran off, Yen Sid said to Aslan, "There is much to tell him, in so little time."

"Be grateful King Mickey is planning on meeting Frodo Baggins. Frodo needs his allies," said Aslan.

o-o-o

As Mickey prepared for the trip, he noticed Donald and Goofy reading a letter written by Sora, in reply to Mickey's letter. Once he is ready, Mickey made his farewells to Queen Minnie, Daisy, Donald, and Goofy.

"You're leaving us again?" asked Goofy, saddened and confused.

"Don't worry. I'll come back," said Mickey.

"Be careful," said Donald.

Mickey chuckled. "I will." After saying a final farewell, Mickey left Disney Castle and his friends.

Chapter 12: 11: Heroes' Welcome Ball

Chapter by Aria Breuer (Aria_Breuer)

Chapter Text

Chapter Eleven:

Heroes' Welcome Ball

On the day of the ball, as the Animals prepared the ballroom for the evening's event, there entered a spur of animals and people alike, all very cartoonish in nature. Melena told the hobbits the group was the Looney Tunes. At one point, a yellow bird flew towards the hobbits, but was taken away by a black-and-white cat. The cat ended up having a piano dropped on him. A grey hare approached the group. In his usual manner of speaking, the hare said:

"Eh… what's up, doc?"

Melena introduced the hare to the hobbits, "Everyone, this is Bugs Bunny."

"Don't you have business elsewhere?" asked Frodo to Melena.

Melena agreed. "Yes, I should help with the decorations." She yelled at a few passing ducks as she helped prepare the ballroom.

Bugs inquired to the hobbits. "Say, docs, what might you be?"

"We're hobbits," said Merry. He asked his friends, "I wonder where Victoria is."

"I saw her first, Merry," said Pippin.

Bugs noticed the group accompanying him starting to act a bit… loony. He said to the hobbits, "Excuse me, kind sirs."

Bugs left behind a small cannonball, which blasted into a series of fireworks. Frodo and his friends moved away from the table as the fireworks shot into the air. The fireworks attacked the Animals and heroes in the process.

Bugs cried, as another firework passed his way, "Well, there goes another cracker."

The fireworks continued until one of the bear leaders informed Bugs to stop the racket. Bugs shrugged before doing as the bears said, but not without giving them a bomb for a present. The bomb set off, just as a black duck – which Frodo learned was Daffy Duck – jumped up and down with an insane look. Bugs waved goodbye to the bears until he was told by Melena to stop the racket. Bugs didn't argue that time and shut off the fireworks cannonball using a remote.

Bugs merely said, "I guess some people, and Animals, can't stand to have fun. Oh well."

The Heroes' Welcome Ball began at sundown.

Those who knew how to waltz and other ballroom dances were welcome on the dance floor. Those that were new to ballroom dancing were introduced to it from either their partners or people and animals they dragged out. Amor and Jezebel were also at the ball, finally reunited after a long search.

This was when Frodo and the hobbits would be introduced to their fans. Sam stepped out of the ballroom then, taking Rosie with him. Sam's fans became disappointed and flustered, yet they eventually agreed that Sam wasn't returning. Once Frodo, Merry, and Pippin learned the steps to a few dances, they were sent out onto the dance floor. One by one, each animal and being fan was allowed a dance with the three hobbits. Melena hoped, in doing this, they would find the right partner.

Merry, after thinking too much of Estella Bolger, backed out of the dancing. When Sam returned with Rosie, Merry joined the fiancées. Pippin wasn't too far behind. When Victoria danced with Pippin, she kissed him in public. Pippin's thoughts were on Diamond Took then, an old friend Pippin met when they were hobbit children. Pippin released Victoria, telling her:

"Victoria, I'm sorry. It wouldn't work between us."

Victoria said, "I should be sorry, too. It's okay. I understand." She left Pippin then. She was aware of Merry following her. On the balcony, she stopped Merry in his tracks, "Merry, as much as I would like to talk with you, I'd rather…" She was cut off when Merry kissed her.

Upon having more thoughts of Estella, Merry broke the kiss. "I see what you mean."

Victoria said, "I'm glad you do. It's better that we stopped here, before…"

A male hobbit behind Merry asked Victoria, "Victoria, is everything all right?"

"Everything's fine, Dexter," said Victoria. "I was just having a conversation with a famous hobbit."

Dexter approached the two. He had hazel eyes and curly, brown hair. As he approached the two, taking Victoria by the hand, Dexter looked at Merry and said, "You've come a long way. I'm Dexter Corner."

"Merry Brandybuck," said Merry in introduction.

"Pleased to meet you," said Dexter. He faced Victoria, "Victoria, are you coming?"

"Yes," said Victoria. She told Merry last, as she followed Dexter back to the ballroom, "It was a pleasure talking to you, Merry."

"Same to you," said Merry. He followed the couple back to the ballroom.

Frodo was no as lucky as Merry, Pippin, and Sam. He ended up dancing with just about every eligible maiden there was, whether being or creature or fangirl. Even from the various dances played, Frodo knew in his heart he wouldn't find his true love at the ballroom. He wondered if he would even have a chance at finding love or the right partner. Frodo wasn't alone. Other heroes, both male and female, also danced with their fans. Somehow, the ball was turning into frenzy.

Like those hogging the food table, Amor didn't care what was happening on the dance floor. Jezebel informed Amor at some point:

"Oh Amor, you eat like a pig. Can't you save some food for others?"

"What are you talking about? I'm fine," said Amor.

"You'll be a fat hedgehog, if you don't stop," said Jezebel.

Confused, Amor asked, "Eh? And why should you care whether I'm fat or thin?"

Jezebel slapped a paw to her forehead in agony.

Towards one end of the ballroom, Melena and Coral observed what happened on the dance floor.

"Frodo looks happy, doesn't he?" asked Melena.

Coral shook her head. "I doubt it. He looks like he isn't enjoying himself."

"How's the food situation?" asked Melena.

Coral looked over at the food table. "With luck, there's still some left. Maybe we should have ordered more food from the kitchens."

Melissa, at one point, stepped in line with the other fangirls waiting to dance with Frodo. When Melissa's turn came, Melissa tried everything she could to impress him. Frodo gladly called the Animal guards, who took Melissa away before she could cause any further trouble. After Melissa's intervention, Frodo took a break to get a glass of water. As he did, Merry and Pippin spoke to their cousin.

"Still having no luck, cousin?" asked Merry.

"You'll find the right partner," said Pippin. "If not, then she'll find you."

"I do hope so, Pippin," said Frodo. He spoke, truthfully, "Just… maybe not with this crowd."

"Then where would you find her?" asked Sam.

Frodo shrugged. "I don't know. Fate will guide me to her, whoever she is." He paused. "I'll know when I see her."

Jezebel yelled a few tables down, "Amor, I told you not to eat that cupcake! Look at the mess you're making."

"You had better get back out there, cousin. Those… fans are getting restless," said Merry, noticing the fangirls were standing impatient in line.

"I suppose I must," said Frodo, taking his leave from the round table.

The ball continued until the last fangirl finished dancing with Frodo. During the ball, Frodo thought some of the girls and women reminded him of the girl in his dreams. He was dismayed after they walked off. However, all the girls and women he danced with had one thing in common: they acted more like friends instead of lovers. As Frodo left the ballroom, a man with golden skin stopped him in his tracks.

"Hello deary. You look dismayed. Fear not, for I think we can both offer something in this venture," said the man with the gold-speckled skin.

"No thank you," said Frodo.

"It's no trouble. You're looking to find love. I can grant it to you. The name's Rumplestiltskin."

Using common sense, Frodo told the man, "Whatever you're offering, forget it. I'll find love my own way."

"Fine then, deary. Should you ever need my help, just call my name. Cheerio!" said Rumplestiltskin, vanishing through a silver-lined portal in seconds.

o-o-o

As Melena and Coral stood on a balcony, they witnessed Lara-Belle enter the balcony via portal. Coral jumped back in fright. Melena guarded her sister.

"What is it you want, Lara-Belle?" asked Melena, defensive.

"I was hoping I could speak to Coral in secret," said Lara-Belle.

Confused, Melena asked, "What for?"

"Nothing that concerns you," said Lara-Belle.

"Forget it. Whatever scheme Maleficent is having you do, you might as well forget it. Coral's on the hero's side now," said Melena.

Lara-Belle, facing Coral, asked, "Is this true, Coral? Have you really betrayed me?"

"Don't give in, Coral. She's only here because Maleficent told her," said Melena.

Lara-Belle lowered her head in shame. "Now, why would you say I'm on Maleficent's side? Besides, you weren't there when the villains beat me up."

"What happened to you?" asked Coral, stunned.

"Coral," said Melena.

"It's better that we talk alone," said Lara-Belle, transfixed on Coral.

"Don't listen to her, Coral," said Melena.

Coral hesitated. She then told Lara-Belle, "It is better if I stay here for a while."

Lara-Belle, growing agitated, said softly, "Fine. If that's what you choose." Before she disappeared through a portal, Lara-Belle gave a warning: "Know this, if Frodo and the other heroes leave this headquarters, they won't be protected and the villains will come after them." She then fled through the same portal she entered.

A bear cub approached the two lionesses. He said quickly, "Melena! Melena, the dungeons were just attacked, but all prisoners are accounted for."

"I wonder what the villains wanted," said Melena. She glanced at Coral for a second, before retiring.

Coral followed her. "Wait! Melena, why didn't you…"

"You nearly betrayed the heroes back there, Coral!" said Melena. "What kind of a hero are you?" Before Coral could protest, Melena spat back, "No Coral. You must decide whether you are a hero or a villain. You cannot have both lives. Is that clear?"

Coral paused, and then said, "Crystal clear, Melena."

Melena, growing suspicious, warned Coral, "You may think you're a hero, but you have lived with villains for a long time. I hope you don't backslide on us now, on me now." She tore off in seconds.

Coral followed her until Melena stopped her in her tracks. Melena barked, "No Coral. Not tonight. You can sleep on your decision. Come and see me again when you're ready to be a hero." With that, Melena returned to her room for the night.

Late in the evening, Frodo endured another strange dream:

He was in the Pridelands, in a lion's body. He ran with Kovu across the grasslands, enjoying the thrill of running. Everywhere he looked, he saw wild antelope. He caught one and ate what remained of the young antelope. A lioness named Kiara gestured him and Kovu forward. He knew he wasn't Frodo in this body, but someone else entirely. He still felt like himself, but at the same time not.

Kiara asked Kovu, "Kovu, aren't you going to introduce me to this lion?"

"Of course," said Kovu. "Kiara, I'd like you to meet Elijah Molvaro."

"Pleased to meet you, Elijah," said Kiara.

He bowed before her. He spoke, "And to you, Kiara."

The dream shifted, yet he was still as this Elijah Molvaro. He was at the 100 acre wood in hobbit form. The form, by reflection, looked something like him. Wait… was this Elijah Molvaro really him, Frodo Baggins? His thoughts were interrupted by…

"Come on, Elijah. You have finished telling us the story," said Tigger, excited.

"Well, I was on my way to the museum when this girl shows up…"

"What did she look like?" asked Winnie-the-Pooh.

"Like an angel, yet she sure acted defensive. I told her about what had happened and she…"

"She must have been something to risk your life to save hers," said Winnie-the-Pooh, thinking hard.

"Yeah, she was," said Elijah. "I fear we may never meet again. She looked as though she didn't have many friends."

"You did what you could," said Rabbit.

"Yeah, I know," said Elijah.

Frodo awoke just as the conversation was getting interesting. His mind reeled with questions. Who was She that they spoke of? Could they have been speaking about the girl from his dreams, the same girl in the prophecy? Who was this Elijah Molvaro? Where had this Elijah ended up at? He knew he would need answers. Seeing that it was midnight, Frodo fell back asleep. The dreams he had were peaceful, while others were nightmarish.

Chapter 13: 12: Falling In

Chapter by Aria Breuer (Aria_Breuer)

Chapter Text

Chapter Twelve:

Falling In

A few weeks passed by, with little activity. During one of the meetings, the five hobbits and other heroes were welcomed to sit down and listen to their presentation. After the official meeting ended, Melissa and Nash decided to bring out their chart. The five hobbits didn't know what was happening until Melissa and Nash announced:

"Today, we're going to describe the different levels of fans there are, no matter the fandom," said Melissa.

"This should be good," said a red bull. He seemed to Frodo the same bull from the Evenshire Camp.

"Let's start out with the more common fans," said Nash. "The Newcomers, also known as the Bottom Dwellers: they are known for understanding little of the fandom. Just starting out, these fans aren't typically an issue, as they are new to the fandom they are writing about. We don't have examples of these fans, other than they are prone to screwing up the fandom should they try. This may include new fanfiction writers."

"I'm sorry, but just what is a fanfiction writer?" asked a female brown bear.

"Well, Mother Sinclair, now that you've brought it up," said Nash. "The fanfiction writers are…"

Melissa interrupted. In an exaggerated voice, she said, "Fanfiction writers are writers of fandom stories! Just what is a fandom, you might ask? The particular story or series that fans have taken an interest in!"

"Okay, Melissa, calm down," said Nash. "As I was saying…"

"They're not going to keep doing this, are they?" asked a Dalmatian.

Ignoring the Dalmatian, Nash pointed out with his stick to next term. "The Outwards Crushed Fan or the Logical Limiters: unlike the Newcomers, these fans known some or a lot about the subject, yet they speak openly and rationally about their crush. For example, when we talk about Legolas Tranduillion from 'The Lord of the Rings'…

"What is 'The Lord of the Rings'?" asked Frodo, confused.

Nash continued. "Legolas would see this fan as having a rational mind. These are typically fans we don't have an issue with because they think we're just in their imagination. That includes you, Daedra!" He pointed to adult Dalmatian that spoke earlier.

Melissa pointed to another name on the chart with her stick, "Borderline-Crazed Fan, more commonly known as the Daydreamers: these fans are known for having almost all the merchandise. That includes books, movies, games… you get the idea. They quote lines from us 'characters' that have already said them, while at the same time bending the original story for their fanfiction works. Of course, this has led to the spawning of the infamous Mary-Sues." Melissa asked, annoyed, "Just what are Mary-Sues anyway?"

"Can we move on?" asked Nash, irritated.

"Gladly," said Melissa. She pointed to the next name, "Obsessive-Compulsive Fans, better known as the Blindly Insane. They are known for having all the books, movies, games, etcetera, but also profess their love to – let's say Legolas – in their one-sided crush behavior. These ones are dangerous to hang around, because you never known when they might attempt to 'own' us. These fans, like the fans we just mentioned, fall into the general audience of fans. It shouldn't be too hard to track them down."

"That reminds me of Lavender Brown!" announced Ron. Hermione shushed him.

"Reminds me of Melissa, too," said Nash, peeved. Facing Melissa, Nash asked her, "Melissa, what are you doing?"

"What do you mean 'what am I doing'? I was just…" Her argument with Nash continued for a few minutes.

Nash eventually ended the argument with, "Melissa, why do we act like you're in charge."

"Do you want to finish the rest?" asked Melissa.

Facing the audience, Nash said, "Well, now we turn our attention to those harder-to-find fans." He pointed with his stick to the next term on the chart, "Inward-Sensitive Fans, also called the Respectable Fans, aren't as open as the Outwards-Crushed Fan or the Obsessive-Compulsive Fans. They are sane and don't openly chase after – let's call him Legolas. These fans do follow the crowds, but they aren't as well-known as their bookworm counterparts."

He paused to catch his breath. "Hard-Core Fans or Bookworms: these fans have thorough knowledge of the particular fandom they are working with. These fans can be 'purists, but they know well-enough of the material to be respected. In fanfiction, these fans enhance the story with information we send them or have lived through. So, in case you see a story that shows your past experiences, or recent events, this may have come from a hard-core fan, if the fan is amateur but knows what he or she is doing, then they are among this and the respectable fans.

Now for the hardest-to-find fans, which are the Passionate Fans; more commonly known as Believers, these fans will keep our secrets about us. Some may have a thorough knowledge of the world, while many won't. However, these fans also have rarer experiences with falling in love with – again let's use Legolas as an example…"

"He's been using me as an example far too much," whispered Legolas to Aragorn and the hobbits.

Nash continued without interruption, "…So, if ever Legolas meets the love of his life, be warned, it could come from this tier of fans, the hardest tier to reach. Only a few fans have passed this tier and are greatly respectable amongst us 'characters'." Nash ended the explanation with, "So, that concludes this meeting. I hope you enjoyed hearing it."

"Meeting, he says," said Ron, confused. "What a load of wallop at the end."

"I guess we'll have to watch out for fans," said Harry.

"Depending on the fan," said Hermione. "Although, I doubt we'll be seeing those passionate fans anytime soon."

"Let's go," said Harry, as he, Ron, and Hermione stood up.

As the people and animals filed out of the room, Melissa and Nash turned to the female brown bear, Mother Sinclair. Mother Sinclair looked at the chart with an impressed look.

Melissa asked the bear, "So, how was that?"

Mother Sinclair told the two, "Good work, Nash. I was most impressed with your presentation."

"Melissa helped," said Nash, not taking all the credit.

"Yes, I could tell," said Mother Sinclair, sneering at Melissa.

"What did I do now?" asked Melissa, perplexed.

Mother Sinclair explained, "Well, Nash came through with flying colors. Melissa, you need to work on your… presenting."

"Work on it, how?" asked Melissa, bewildered.

"Don't worry, Melissa. You'll get there," said Nash, with an encouraging smile.

o-o-o

"Merry, can I have a word?" asked Frodo, catching up to Merry.

Merry nodded. Pippin led Sam and Rosie away from the scene.

"I wonder what they'll discuss," said Sam, curious.

Once Frodo and Merry were alone, Frodo asked him, "Merry, I've noticed you're staying away from Melissa. You haven't been spending much time with her as you used to."

"Is that bad?" asked Merry, confused.

"No, it's not, but cousin…"

"Frodo, what happened between me and Melissa… it's over now," said Merry, calmly. Before Frodo could get another word out, Merry told him, "Frodo, before you say anything, just know that what happened between me and Melissa, even with Victoria, that's in the past. So please, don't worry yourself over me." He walked on in search of Pippin, Sam, and Rosie.

As Frodo walked down the corridor, he was met by Aslan. The Lion startled him when he spoke, "Frodo Baggins, you are a sight to behold. I trust your time here has been spent well."

"If only that were true," said Frodo. He asked, curious, "Aslan, when do my friends and I return home? We have no reason to stay here."

"On the contrary, you'll find you need to stay here for as long as it takes," said Aslan.

Confused, Frodo asked, "How do you mean?"

"Have you learned anything new about the Emerald Diadem?" asked Aslan. "If you have, then know this: there are others searching for the diadem as well. Not many will ask the right questions, but those brave and pure of heart will get the answers they seek."

"I don't understand," said Frodo.

"In time, you will Frodo," said Aslan, leaving Frodo with unanswered questions.

After journeying for so long, Scrat and Scratte found themselves a top a massive cliff. The two continued to fight over the acorn, never knowing which one might have had it as a reward. Before Scrat could reach the acorn, Scratte pressed a stone lever with her back. The lever moved, releasing a trapdoor, which shot out from the ground. Scrat and Scratte watched with awe as the trapdoor hatch opened by itself. The trapdoor had been disguised to resemble the ground atop the cliff.

Out from the trapdoor's opening came two bears. One of the bears held a small wooden cage. The two bears, wondering what had happened, spotted Scrat and Scratte. Scratte escaped with the acorn in her hands. Scrat, without the acorn, ended up trapped inside the cage. The two bears retreated back inside the Animal Headquarters, closing the trapdoor after them. The stone lever returned to its first position.

o-o-o

Inside a waiting room, from where Scrat sat, Scrat looked around for some food or even an acorn. Neither could be found. One of the bears returned with a plate filled with salted nuts. Scrat's mouth watered. When a brown bear set the plate of nuts in front of Scrat, Scrat didn't hesitate to gobble down the nuts. The bear sat down at a chair across the table.

"Those nuts are good, aren't they?" asked the bear.

Scrat nodded in delight.

"You opened the trapdoor, didn't you?" asked the bear, promptly.

Scrat shook his head.

The bear thought for a moment. "Hmm… well, it is strange how two squirrels ended up reaching this far, and with so little to eat." She noticed a second brown bear enter the room. Turning to Scrat, the bear stood up, demanding, "All right, you were out there looking for the Emerald Diadem! Weren't you, Scrat?"

"Georgina, calm down and let the squirrel finish eating his nuts," said the second bear.

"Forgive me, Klunkie," said Georgina. Facing Scrat, Georgina asked, "Do you know anything about the Emerald Diadem? Do you even know what it is or what it looks like?"

Scrat shook his head twice.

Georgina sighed in regret. "I guess we'll have to try something else."

"Georgina, wouldn't it be better if we let the squirrel go? He probably doesn't know anything we're concerned about," said Klunkie.

"Well, let's hope Mother Sinclair doesn't know what's going on," said Georgina.

"Let's be grateful Melissa and Nash keep Mother Sinclair on her toes," said Klunkie.

"True. Maybe we could give Scrat this acorn in agreement that he doesn't come near the headquarters again," said Georgina, practically showing the acorn to Scrat's face.

"We can't guarantee Scrat will or will not return. He's a squirrel, after all," said Klunkie.

Georgina gave Scrat the acorn, moments after he finished eating all the nuts on the plate. Scrat took the acorn fast, caressing it tenderly. Returning Scrat to his cage, Georgina left the room and climbed up a series of stairs, leading back outside. The bear opened the cage, causing Scrat to flee from the bear's sight. Scrat waited until after the trapdoor was closed before searching for a spot to bury the acorn. He found no such spot while on the cliff.

More weeks passed. On the day of his birthday, Frodo celebrated at the Animal Headquarters. A cake was made in the kitchens for the hobbit, thanks to Remy and a Husky dog named Grayson. The people that attended Frodo's birthday party were his hobbit friends, the Pevensies, Ronnie Buckley, and Harry, Ron, and Hermione. Aslan was even invited to attend the party, something that Aslan appreciated. Melissa and Nash avoided the party, due to Melissa's strange obsession with wanting to torture Frodo, something that Nash was against. After the party, Frodo met Aslan outside the diner, while the cleaning up took place.

"I'm another year older," said Frodo, admitting solemnly.

"It seems that way," said Aslan.

"How do you mean?" asked Frodo, curious.

"Time is frozen in Middle-earth, Frodo. You may still be age fifty-three," said Aslan. "Do you not feel your age?"

"Yes, a bit," said Frodo. Curious, Frodo asked, "Aslan, who is Elijah Molvaro?"

Aslan only answered, "Wouldn't you like to know? Elijah will present himself when the time comes. For now, know that he exists."

Frodo said, "It sure is peaceful tonight."

Aslan nodded. "It certainly is."

Reaching the final step, an anthropomorphic mouse entered the fifth floor. He spotted Aslan and Frodo, approaching them in moments.

The anthropomorphic mouse asked Aslan, "Aslan, I'm glad I found you! I've been looking everywhere for you. Do you know where Frodo Baggins is?"

"Frodo is right here, King Mickey," said Aslan. Turning to Frodo, Aslan introduced the mouse to him, "Frodo Baggins, let me introduce you to King Mickey Mouse. He currently lives at Disney Castle."

"A mouse as a king," said Frodo, stunned, "Isn't that something."

"Well, I finally meet the famous Frodo Baggins, or so Aslan tells me. I heard that you help save the worlds from the villains. I was doing the same thing. I had no idea who was helping us out from this side. What are you?" asked Mickey, curious.

"I am a hobbit, one of the Shire-folk," said Frodo.

"You'll have to explain to me what hobbits are," said Mickey.

"Don't worry. He will, but first we might want to take this meeting elsewhere for tonight," said Aslan.

"On the eve of my birthday and already there's a meeting planned? Aslan, I don't know…"

"Relax Frodo," said Aslan. To Frodo and Mickey, Aslan asked them, "Would it be all right if we take this meeting to my quarters."

"Certainly," said Frodo and Mickey in unison.

"Good. Right this way," said Aslan, leading the hobbit and the mouse up the stairs to the seventh floor.

o-o-o

Inside Aslan's room, Aslan discussed with Frodo and Mickey over what the next step would be. All Frodo thought of was the Shire and when he was supposed to return home. Mickey, on the other hand, wanted to know everything that had happened. Frodo explained the current events in his life: from arriving to the Evenshire Camp, having a second Fellowship with two included members – Coral and Gurgi – to finding the Merswold Camp and learning the villains were going to attack the Evenshire Camp, from fleeing the Fellowship to his own journey, to returning to the Evenshire Camp and reaching the Animal Headquarters. Aslan added in the Welcome Ball, which took place a month before Mickey's arrival. After the story was finished, Mickey stood in silence.

"Gosh, a lot has happened," said Mickey, thinking. "What is this Emerald Diadem you speak of, Aslan?"

"It's a diadem with unique powers. Some use it for wishes, others use it to backtrack time," said Aslan.

"Time travel?" asked Frodo, intrigued.

"Why yes, Frodo. If the Emerald Diadem is used correctly, the bearer will be thrown into the past," said Aslan.

"So, if one were to go back in time and change some events, then w…"

"If only that were so, Frodo," said Aslan. "One can change the past, but not so the future and the future is not always pleasant whenever something in the past has been changed."

"Why would the future not like the past?" asked Frodo.

"That is a conversation meant for another time," said Aslan. "As you will help us end all evil, then we…"

"Wait, who says I'm going to help end all evil? I'm only a hobbit," asked Frodo, concerned.

"Yes, and I am a lion," said Aslan. "Nonetheless, it is in your destiny to help us end evil."

"Aslan, I don't even know where to begin," said Frodo.

"Maleficent's out there somehow, plotting behind our backs," said Mickey.

"I am well aware Maleficent's alive, Mickey," said Frodo.

"Still, Frodo, you are our hope in completing the prophecies," said Aslan. "It seems we end this meeting tonight by our own accord. You may do what you have to."

"I'll send my friends a letter. They need to know what's happened," said Mickey, rushing out of the room in search of a parchment paper, a quill, and an ink bottle.

Before Frodo left, Aslan stopped him, "Frodo, there's a fine line between trusting someone and not. I hope you do not stay mad at Melissa for too long."

"Melissa's a nuisance, Aslan," said Frodo.

"Nevertheless, she will be vital in keeping you and the girl alive," said Aslan.

Frodo nodded. He then left Aslan's room with deep thoughts. On his way back to his bedroom suite, Frodo comes across a figure wearing a hooded cloak. He glimpsed away, and then looked again. The figure vanished in plain sight. Feeling uncomfortable, Frodo dashed to his room and closed the door after him. He was relieved to see no one else in the room. He fell asleep that night, dreaming of storm clouds and a spiky-haired boy carrying what appeared to be a keyblade.

Chapter 14: 13: Boot Camp

Chapter by Aria Breuer (Aria_Breuer)

Chapter Text

Chapter Thirteen:

Boot Camp

Maleficent was enraged… the Black Cauldron needed to work…

"Keep trying, mi liege," said Maleficent in vain.

The Horned King wouldn't fail her… from the Black Cauldron came grotesque-shaped creatures with slimy shells… these creatures were called the Far Wanderers, or more commonly known by another name… the Diesels… the Elusive Five all raven-colored Emperor Penguins were also present.

"Find Mumble Happyfeet and bring him before me," said Maleficent.

"We won't fail you, mi lady," said four of the five Elusive penguins.

"I'll make sure not to fail again. If I do, then you know what to do with me," said Nix.

"Fair enough," said Maleficent. "Just make sure you have him this time."

The Elusive Five Emperor Penguins left the chamber with thoughts of revenge on their minds…

Melissa awoke with a start. So Maleficent was planning on attacking with snails and penguins. It seemed odd that Maleficent would plan an attack this way…

While Melissa pondered over the dream, she got dressed and went downstairs. Arriving on the fourth floor, Melissa made her way into the diner. There, she ordered a heavy round of ice cream sundae. The head chef Husky dog Grayson arrived at the table, bringing Melissa's sundae in both paws.

After passing Melissa the sundae, Grayson told her, "That's a lot of ice cream for the morning."

Eating some of the sundae, Melissa eventually asked, "How are things in the kitchens, Grayson? Last I heard, you were competing against a chef rat for the title of master chef."

"You mean Remy? That rat can cook up a storm… don't tell him I said that," said Grayson. He noticed Melissa shake her head. "No, Remy and I have finally come to terms with being co-master chefs. He's in charge of the soups, salads, and appetizers. I'm in charge of the main course and desserts. Somehow, I think we've got it down."

Remy shouted from the kitchen window, "Grayson, you'd better come in here. Gurgi's in the sauce again!"

"You'll have to excuse me, Melissa," said Grayson, running back into the kitchens.

Melissa shook her head. As she heard complaining coming from the first kitchen, Melissa mumbled, "Typical." She took another spoonful of ice cream, just as Nash approached her.

Nash said, "Melissa, you'd better come and see this."

"See what? I'm busy eating," said Melissa, moaning.

Nash said, frustrated, "If you don't come, you won't hear the end of it from me."

"Okay, fine," said Melissa, leaving her sundae behind.

The two made their way downstairs. Reaching the third floor, a training area for animals and people alike, Melissa was surprised at how many Animals there were in the room. The Animals used all the equipment they could find. Melissa approached Timon and Pumbaa, who looked responsible for the assembly gathered.

Startling the meerkat and warthog, Melissa asked, "Need I ask what is going on here?'

Timon asked, surprised, "What? Pumbaa and I decided to start our own boot camp, to shape up these lazy, crazy animals."

Pumbaa added, excited, "Yeah and Archimedes agreed to help us. He's that owl over there." He pointed at a small owl with brown-and-tan feathers and a white beard.

"Thank you," said Melissa. Facing Nash, Melissa said, "Excuse me."

Nash followed her. "Melissa, you aren't going to mess with that poor bird." He received a glare from Melissa.

Approaching the owl, Melissa asked, "Excuse me, but are you Archimedes?"

"That would be me!" said Archimedes.

"Hey Baloo, you need to use that rope the right way! It's not a swing," cried Timon.

A large grey bear sighed. "Hey! All right, then how would you use it?"

"Oh, let me!" shouted Timon, scrambling towards Baloo.

Ignoring the commotion, Melissa asked Archimedes, "I'm sorry, but why are training these animals."

Archimedes grunted. "I don't have to answer to you. I've heard all about you from those leader bears. You won't get a reply from me, Melissa Snowberry." He flew off, perching on a stand next to Pumbaa, who was busy watching Timon.

Nash told Melissa, "Well, you tried. But look!" He pointed out a group of hobbits by the archery dummies. He said, "There's our kin practicing archery. Maybe we should talk to them."

"Or just leave them alone," said Melissa. She then recognized the hobbits as Frodo, Sam, Merry, and Pippin. "On second thought, maybe we should interrogate them."

"Melissa," said Nash, sternly.

Melissa asked, appalled, "What? You're not my father, Nash." She missed what Nash mumbled as she walked towards the hobbits.

Frodo shot at the target. The arrow twanged, hitting the fifty marker on a slant. Frodo tried again with a new arrow. By the time Melissa and Nash entered the scene, Frodo had hit another marker on the dummy.

"You might want to work on hitting the dummy upwards," said Melissa, giving some advice.

"Oh, it's you," said Frodo, unimpressed. Readying his bow, he asked, "Melissa, why are you here?" He stopped her before she could say anything, "Forget it. I already know."

"And what, may I ask, are you doing?" asked Melissa. She hardly noticed Nash shaking his head in agony.

Sarcastically, Frodo said, "Practicing my archery. What does it look like I'm doing?"

Merry started, "Melissa, we don't have time to discuss…"

"That's okay, Merry. I'm going on a scavenger hunt anyway," said Melissa.

"A scavenger hunt, huh?" asked Frodo, un-amused.

Melissa explained, "Yes, to find the ghost that lives in these halls. Rumors are the second and eighth floors of this base are haunted. That's why you never see any animals or people on those two floors, but especially the eighth floor." She knew she had Frodo's attention, especially when he shot the arrow at the seventy-five marker. "I've already got Elijah Molvaro on board. I'm heading that way now, in case anyone wants to join me."

"I do!" cried Pippin in excitement.

Merry stopped his younger cousin, "Pippin. Wouldn't it be better if we stay here?"

Frodo asked Melissa, interested, "So, you've brought this Elijah Molvaro into this, have you?"

"Nash is coming, too. But you wouldn't be interested." Melissa prepared to leave the third floor, "Goodbye."

Frodo stopped Melissa with his words, "Wait! I might be interested. This might be my only chance at meeting Elijah Molvaro, and to see the spirit you've told us about."

"Great. You can meet me on the second floor, after you've finished your archery. I'll be waiting," said Melissa. She took off with Nash following her.

"You know you fell for that, cousin," said Merry to Frodo. "Melissa could have lied to us about this spirit of hers."

"Well, as long as it keeps Melissa occupied and helps me heal, I don't see why I shouldn't assist her with this," said Frodo, taking down the arrows from the straw dummy.

"I don't know, Master Frodo. Miss Melissa seems a lot of trouble," said Sam.

"What more can we do, Sam?" asked Frodo, putting the arrows back inside the quiver, along with his bow. He left the third floor with his friends.

When Frodo returned to the third floor, after a good long bath, he made his way to the second floor. The second floor was just as Melissa described, since no one else was present in the hall. He eventually found Melissa and Nash, along with a hobbit named Elijah Molvaro. The hobbit wore a white-and-tan shirt, a gold vest, and brown breeches. Frodo was reminded of a lion when looking at Elijah's attire. Elijah, being the skeptic, had a hard time believing there was a ghost wandering in the halls of the Animal Headquarters. The four hobbits were soon met by Ronnie Buckley, who nearly startled Melissa. After picking clean the second floor, and meeting the two cat smiths along the way, the group traversed to the eighth floor.

On the eighth floor, Frodo and Elijah met the ghost at the Headquarters. In spite of Elijah's skeptical behavior, he couldn't deny seeing the spirit. After searching his room for an item, Frodo returned to the eighth floor. The ghost thanked Frodo for his help. In return, the spirit went to heaven. Melissa thought, as Ron said, the quest was a load of wallop.

During the middle of the week, in October, Frodo found Aslan inside what appeared to be a large sleeper's chamber. In the chamber were gold-embroidered, technological beds. He asked Aslan, promptly:

"Aslan, what is this chamber used for?"

Aslan answered, "To sleep, Frodo."

"How so?" asked Frodo.

"If used correctly, this chamber can be used for approximately twenty years. Once the twenty years are up, then the next person or creature can take turns. In truth, this chamber holds great power and fear. For those who pass through may not see the world the same again," explained Aslan. "For now, this chamber will help those in need of dreams and good sleep. That is all I will say on the matter."

Frodo nodded. "Is there any chance this chamber will help heal people?"

"You need healing, Frodo. This chamber may be what you need," said Aslan.

Frodo left the chamber with deep thoughts flowing through his mind. Once back on the third floor, Frodo met with his friends Sam, Merry, and Pippin. They spoke diligently in the diner, on the fourth floor, concerning the sleeping chamber. Sam was the first to reject the idea, saying:

"Mr. Frodo, why would you want to sleep for twenty years? Surely there must be a better way…"

Frodo interrupted him. "Oh Sam, if the chamber does work, then I will spend that time healing. Who knows? Maybe Aslan can send for some healers."

"Frodo, you can't do this alone," said Pippin, unaware of what Frodo was asking.

"Pippin, you are asking to sleep for twenty years. Surely, we can't do that," said Merry.

"Master Frodo, think carefully on your decision. If you sleep for twenty years, we won't see you again for a long time," said Sam.

"Sam, I don't think there's much choice for me. I'm withering away." Frodo added, "My heart was pierced by Maleficent. I already feel more pain, due to that."

"Just don't make your decision alone, Frodo," said Merry.

"Don't worry. I won't," said Frodo.

Merry spoke directly to him, "Frodo, we're your friends. Whatever decision you make…"

Frodo intervened. He spoke last, "I'll think on it. I'll make my decision at this Winter Ball the animals are setting up. I hope this is all right."

"Just be careful, Master Frodo," said Sam, warningly.

"I will," said Frodo.

o-o-o

Towards the end of the week, Frodo managed to find Aslan. Aslan himself was still making preparations to the sleeping chambers.

Aslan spoke to Frodo, "Frodo, have you come to ask about the sleeping chambers again?"

Frodo nodded. "Aslan, I've been thinking… can I try the sleeping chambers? If they are used for healing, as you said…"

"So, you wish to test it for twenty years." Aslan watched Frodo nod in reply. "I cannot guarantee you much, but I will speak to the healers at the headquarters on this matter. If they can find a way to cure you as you sleep… I think this would be for the best. Gandalf was right: you need a lot of healing."

"You'll let me do this?" asked Frodo, curious.

"Wait until the Winter Ball, then we shall talk more on this," said Aslan.

Frodo said as the Lion left him, "I hope we do, Aslan."

Chapter 15: 14: Classical Interventions

Chapter by Aria Breuer (Aria_Breuer)

Chapter Text

Chapter Fourteen:

Classical Interventions

November soon came at the Animal Headquarters. As preparations were made for the winter, with Mickey's help, the harvest was gathered from the farms on the sixth floor. Melissa and a girl poodle noticed, with great reluctance, a Swedish Chef cooking some food on the same floor. He seemed to be demonstrating his ability to cook, or so it looked to Melissa's eyes.

"Und ve-a poot zee peppers in zee blender leeke-a thees... ve-a edd huney moosterd, ooneeuns, coocoombers, und zooccheeni intu zee blender... zeen ve-a poot oon zee leed und blend zee ingredeeents. Bork Bork Bork!" explained the Swedish chef, as he added peppers, honey mustard, onions, cucumbers, and zucchini into a blender.

"Eck, wonder what he's making," said Melissa.

"Who cares? Let's go," said the girl poodle, leaving the crate room.

Inside one of the larger meeting rooms, Frodo and his friends sat down next to the Pevensie siblings and their cousin Eustace. Reepicheep moved to the second row, down to the front. As the heroes and Animals gathered, Mother Sinclair passed out a series of books, which she asked each hero to read. Melissa spouted out quotes from the various books.

"'To be or not to be'," Melissa murmured, "Well, that is the question."

Edmund whispered to Frodo and his four hobbit friends, "Remember: these animals are in charge of this headquarters. If one of us heroes steps out of line, they'll attack in a heartbeat."

"Does that include voicing our opinions," whispered Frodo aloud, from across the way.

Mother Sinclair shouted, "Hey, no talking across the room!"

Melissa quoted, aloud, "There be treasure on this island!" She murmured quietly to herself, "'Double, double, toil and trouble'."

Regaining her composure, Mother Sinclair announced, "Now, these books you should consider memorizing and reciting within the next month. It's nothing personal, but something to keep in mind. We'll begin reflections in the next week. As long as we can avoid any incidents, then we'll be safe."

Frodo whispered to Sam, "Safe? Who knows what that means here?" He was shushed by Sam, who Frodo noticed looked annoyed.

After the books were passed out, Merry looked at the book Frodo had. He said, "Good luck, Frodo. I heard about that book. It has a grim ending."

"What do you mean?" asked Frodo, looking at the copy in his hands,Romeo and Juliet.

"Ah, you may find some use out of it," said Merry, who was busy pouring over the copyMacbeth.

Mother Sinclair announced to the audience, happily, "Well, I hope you enjoy your day. That's the end of this meeting." She watched eagerly as the heroes and Animals departed.

On the way out of the meeting room, Frodo saw a strange blue, bug-eyed creature readying a large cannon. A rat helped the strange blue creature. Frodo stood and watched what would happen next. Sam, Rosie, Merry, and Pippin stopped a few moments later.

"Move out of the way, chicken," said the strange blue creature, regretting the decision seconds later.

The rat shook his head. "Gonzo, are you sure about this?"

A male skunk stopped a few inches next to Frodo. "What is this?"

"I'm not sure," said Frodo. Turning to the skunk, Frodo asked, "Who are you?"

"I am Pepé Le Pew. Who might you be, monsieur?" asked the male skunk, unaware that his putrid odor had reached Frodo's nostrils.

Frodo coughed. "I'm… Frodo Baggins."

Pepé watched Gonzo climb into the cannon. "Ah, he must be searching for zee love, no."

Frodo asked the skunk, "What do you know about love?"

Pepé said, shocked, "Why monsieur, love is a special bond between lovers. When a man finds the right woman…"

"I don't need the details," said Frodo.

Pepé shrugged, "I was only going to that when a man finds the right woman, zee love blossoms. They are connected together and they never want to leave each other's side."

"You mean like soul mates? True love?" asked Frodo.

"Exactly," said Pepé.

The rat cried, "Ready Gonzo?"

"I'm ready, Rizzo," said Gonzo, from the inside of the cannon. "Light her up!"

Mother Sinclair started, "Now don't you two… hey!" She moved out of the way, right as Gonzo smashed face-first into an opposing wall. Turning to the group still upstairs, Mother Sinclair asked, "Don't you all have responsibilities elsewhere?"

"I should leave anyway. It was nice talking with you, Monsieur Baggins," said Pepé, as he left the meeting room first.

Frodo and his friends followed out of the meeting room. Once in the hallway, the group was followed by Elijah Molvaro. As Elijah caught up to Frodo, he asked:

"Frodo, can I have a word?"

"Um… sure," said Frodo.

As Sam led Merry, Pippin, and Rosie away, Melissa murmured, "'Double, double, toil and trouble'."

Once they were alone, Elijah spoke to Frodo as they walked, "I know you're willing to rebel against the Animals. Let me make it clear to you why we can't do that… yet."

"How do you mean, Elijah?" asked Frodo.

Elijah moved Frodo behind a wall. He spoke more frantic, "Look, until you can prove yourself to these Animals, there's not much point in rebelling. Just be honest and yourself, and maybe they'll notice something."

Frodo looked at the copy ofRomeo & Juliet. He looked up, "I'll try."

"Try better. Be yourself and you'll come through," said Elijah.

Frodo stopped Elijah before he moved on, "Elijah, what do you think of this book?" He showed him the copy.

"What's there to know? You've got Romeo and Juliet, star-crossed lovers who manage to triumph in proving to their families they belonged together. I won't give the rest away. You'll have to read it and see for yourself," said Elijah. "Listen, I should go. Nash might need my assistance with Melissa."

Frodo nodded, "All right. You go." He waited until Elijah left him alone before leaving the wall.

Frodo spent the rest of the day and well into the night reading the copy ofRomeo & Juliet. He wondered once if the book was given to him for a reason. As he read the book, Frodo realized that love could cross boundaries, where lovers are tested. After he finished reading halfway through the book, Frodo fell asleep. He had another strange dream:

Frodo was staring at the glass ball in the same dwarfish room. From the ball, Frodo saw the girl with the hazel blue-green eyes. She wore the red robed dress yet again. How he longed to assist the girl. Then the image changed. Frodo saw the girl was in trouble. Before he could look away, Frodo saw the girl had been wounded. She was barely breathing. He had to go help her. Someone grabbed him. He was turned around by the dwarf Bofur, who made him look at him:

"The girl… Maia… she needs my help!" cried Frodo.

Bofur said, reassuring, "Frodo, lad. Listen: she's not here." As Frodo calmed down, he added, "If she were, then Balin would say something."

"I want to help her," said Frodo.

"I know, but she's not here." Bofur asked, "Where is she, do you suppose?"

"She's not born yet," said Frodo. He fell into the black abyss…

Frodo awoke in a dazed state. He wanted to help the girl from his strange dreams, yet he knew he couldn't do that. He fell asleep, dreaming another strange dream. The dream this time was dark, yet soothing in a strange way. He felt the girl's presence and yet he didn't. There was more happening in the dream than he supposed. By the time he awoke, he was flustered.

As the month passed on, the Animals and people spoke their thoughts on the books they were given. Many of the works were classic, such asTreasure Islandand20,000 Leagues Under the Sea. Other classics were unfamiliar to Frodo, as he hadn't heard of them or the works written on Earth. Statler and Woldorf spent a good deal, after each reflection was said, to heckle the ones giving their speeches. When it came to the hobbits, who all received Shakespearian plays, they spoke in turn during the meeting about their thoughts on the plays. Melissa started first withKing Lear, and was followed by Nash, who hadThe Tempest. Pippin did well with his reflection of theTaming of the Shrew. Then it was Rosie onA Midsummer Night's Dreamand Sam withHamlet. By the time Merry did his reflection onMacbeth, Frodo thought the way this whole assembly was done was rather childish. Then came Frodo's turn, in which all attention was on him.

Mother Sinclair asked, "Frodo, wouldn't you like to share your reflection on 'Romeo and Juliet'? I mean, we all know what you'll say either way. That book was almost meant to be given to you."

Frodo paused. He said, "Certainly, Mother Sinclair." He read a passage from the book, "In Act I, Scene 1, 'Can I go forward when my heart is here? Turn back, dull earth, and find thy centre out', I think what the playwright is saying is Romeo… is that Romeo…" He paused to think. When he had an answer, Frodo continued, "...Romeo is stuck in a decision of whether to go and find Juliet, or to find his friends."

"And how does that relate to your life, Frodo?" asked Mother Sinclair, curious now.

"From this passage," said Frodo. He watched Mother Sinclair nod. He noticed the assembly was silent. He went on, explaining, "I think it's clear I'm stuck between whether I should listen to my friends, elders, and authority or should I listen to my heart. So far, I can tell this is where I stand daily."

"Yes, but you would have to listen to authority at some point," said Mother Sinclair.

"True, unless authority is corrupt or filled with injustice. Then I cannot simply ignore and stand back, while poor, helpless people or heroes suffer," said Frodo, rebelling. "In spite all odds, Romeo and Juliet found ways to be together. At least they help show one form of love, or its meaning."

"True love," said Mother Sinclair.

Sam whispered to Frodo," Master Frodo, calm down."

Frodo ignored Sam. Facing Mother Sinclair, Frodo exclaimed, "Why do you throw these childish speeches inside a meeting room? This isn't what you call a classroom. We aren't your students. Some of us only come in here for the meetings."

Mother Sinclair explained, calmly, "Yes, but these meeting rooms are built to also portray a classroom, Mister Baggins. Is there anything else you would like to add?"

Frodo asked, "Yes, why aren't we doing anything concerning the villains? Why does this place act like we're hiding from them and trying to forget them?" He noticed a dead silence enter the meeting room.

Rowlf whispered to Kermit, "Boy, he sure is in a bad mood."

Kermit shushed him. "He may have a point."

Mother Sinclair flinched, but then backed off. She said to the assembly gathered, "We are well aware there are villains at large, but let me make this quite plain when I say that we cannot do anything about what's out there. For now, all we can do is focus on what must be done here."

"That still doesn't help us heroes," Frodo fought back. "You would think this headquarters would be a sanctuary, but it's not. Is it? At least treat us heroes with respect, don't…"

"Enough!" shouted Mother Sinclair. Calling the guards, Mother Sinclair told Frodo, "You have spoken long enough, Mister Baggins." She watched as Frodo stormed out of the meeting room.

o-o-o

Outside the meeting room, Frodo sat down on the nearest bench. From where he sat, he could still hear the brown bear Mother Sinclair continuing with the reflections. Melena walked out of the meeting room a few minutes later. Elijah followed her.

Frodo peered up, "What do you two want?"

"I told you not to say anything," said Elijah, sternly. "I knew they wouldn't listen to you, the Animals I mean."

"Fortunately, one of those Animals did," said Melena, protesting.

"Coral didn't come with you?" asked Frodo, directly to Melena.

"No," said Melena, confused. She added, "I heard you in there."

"Everyone did, not just you Melena," said Elijah.

"No, let her continue," said Frodo, encouraging Melena.

Melena said, "Thank you, Frodo. I have to agree with you. This headquarters has been living up to its name. Some animals, like the bears, want to keep this headquarters specifically for the Animals only. Other animals – I'm not sure Melissa and Nash count – are in-between whether the headquarters belongs to Animals or people or even heroes. And some, such as me, would rather…"

"Walk with me," said Frodo, just as Elijah realized the hint.

Melena finished her sentence on the move, "Some Animals and people would rather see the heroes have control of this headquarters again. It's been run by crazed Animals for far too long."

"And who would take control?" asked Elijah, jokingly.

"Why not you, Elijah?" asked Frodo, curious.

"Me?" asked Elijah, shocked. "Surely someone else can run things without me present."

"Why not?" asked Frodo, still curious. "You seem like the leader sort."

"With a headquarters run by bears," said Elijah, "that's enough to make me run away from the job."

"Maybe you wouldn't have to be alone," said Melena.

"I'll think on it, if you two stop nagging me," said Elijah.

Frodo said, "All right."

Elijah paused. Then he asked, "Frodo, why aren't you a leader of the heroes, or a leader of something?"

"Politics isn't for me," said Frodo. "Sure, I can do fine work, but… it's not what I would like to do."

"Really?" asked Melena, now curious. "Then what would you do with your time?"

Stumped, Frodo toppled over his words. "I'm… not sure you would… I mean…"

"You mean you've never thought about what to do with yourself?" asked Melena. "What hobbies you like?"

"That's a tricky question to answer," said Frodo.

Elijah answered, "I have to agree with you, Frodo. I'm not really cut out for politics either."

"That's not true, Elijah. You seem the leader sort as much as Frodo is," said Melena.

Elijah laughed, "You must be joking. I certainly am not the leader sort."

Melena co*cked her head. "Well, you never know, Elijah. If not the headquarters, then at least think on being a leader of some group. We need a starting point anyway for you."

Elijah said, "I've thought of one group that I could try to lead: the Nobodies that are at this headquarters; although, they wouldn't accept me."

"Why wouldn't they?" asked Melena.

"Half a minute, what are Nobodies?" asked Frodo, confused.

Elijah only said, "When you're ready, I'll inform you. I have this funny feeling I'm a Nobody, but a Nobody to whom remains the question." He already had an idea who he was a Nobody to.

"That's actually a good one, Elijah, but the tricky part will be to find them," said Melena.

"I have a feeling where to start," said Elijah.

Melena asked, curious, "Really? With whom, I might ask?"

"I'll tell you later," said Elijah.

The two hobbits and lioness walked in silence afterwards.

Meanwhile…

At the Disney Castle, Donald tapped his foot. His troubled expression hadn't left his face. duch*ess Daisy Duck, an anthropomorphic duck with white plumage and a yellow-orange bill, approached Donald. Daisy wore an ornate, sleeveless violet ball gown and a gold tiara with a sapphire set in the front.

Daisy got Donald's attention, "You remember we have a date, Donald."

Donald huffed. "King Mickey should have been back by now. Something must be wrong."

Queen Minnie informed him, "We need to trust the king. He said in his letter he would stay for a few months."

"Well then, where is he? He is long due," said Donald.

Pluto barked in delight. In his mouth, he carried a letter. Donald cut the seal and opened the envelope. He read Mickey's second letter with worried eyes:

To My Friends and Loyal Subjects:

I am staying at this Animal Headquarters, filled with crazed Animals, for a few more months. Aslan has been asking for help with getting the sleeping chambers installed and ready for their first test. He said those willing and brave enough to volunteer should report to him at the Winter Ball. I should return to the Disney Castle after the ball takes place. I hope all goes well at the castle.

Signed,
King Mickey

P.S. Could you fellas tell Minnie I'm sorry? I'll return as soon as I can.

After Minnie read the letter, she said, "Oh dear. Mickey must be doing something important."

"Important?" asked Donald, "How is helping a lion important?" He was startled by Pluto's bark, which caused him to fall back-first on the white tiled floor.

"We'll just have to trust the King. At least he is safe," said Minnie.

Daisy reminded the Magician, "Donald, remember our date."

"Sorry Daisy," said Donald. Turning to Minnie, Donald said, "Uh… given the circ*mstances, I've got a date to go to."

"I wish you luck, Donald," said Minnie. She giggled as Daisy led Donald out of the throne room.

Chapter 16: 15: Winter Ball

Chapter by Aria Breuer (Aria_Breuer)

Chapter Text

Chapter Fifteen:

Winter Ball

One December morning, Frodo entered Sam and Rosie's suite. He carried a holly embroidered envelope. As he pulled out the tinsel embroidered invitation, Frodo asked his friends:

"Did you receive an invitation?"

"We sure did, Master Frodo," said Sam, holding up his and Rosie's invitation.

Frodo read his invitation again in silence:

Frodo Baggins

You are cordially invited to

The Animal Headquarters' Winter Ball

Date: December 18th
Time: 7:00 p.m. – 12:00 a.m.

Feel free to bring friends and date(s)!

"The ball isn't for another two weeks, Master Frodo," said Sam, pointing out.

"I know, Sam," said Frodo. "I should meet Aslan during…"

"Master Frodo, you aren't thinking about the sleeping chambers again?" asked Sam.

"What if I am?" asked Frodo, testing him.

"Master Frodo, don't do it. It's not worth sleeping for twenty years. Too much would happen while you were asleep," said Sam.

"Sam, if its one way to help heal me, then so be it. I can guarantee I'll see you again," said Frodo. "I need this. Please understand that."

Sam sighed, "All right; just as long as you're careful."

Frodo nodded. "Don't worry, Sam. I will be." He left the room moments later.

Sam turned to Rosie, "What? You heard him. Master Frodo's going to end up doing something he'll regret."

"Sam, Master Frodo needs healing. It may be his only chance at getting it," said Rosie. "You need to trust him. I'm sure he knows what he's doing."

Sam looked regretful, "I hope you're right, Rosie."

In the two weeks before the Winter Ball, Frodo noticed couples being formed. He wondered how dating worked, but more important how to ask a woman out. He still believed there was such a thing as the right woman, as Pepé Le Pew pointed out that day in November. He wasn't surprised that Amor and Jezebel were going to the ball as a couple.

In the middle of the second week, Frodo joined his friends in the first diner. He was surprised to find Animals and people still pairing up. Turning to Merry and Pippin, Frodo inquired:

"It seems we're the only ones without partners."

Pippin corrected him, "That's not true, cousin. Merry and I spent time asking Aslan to go find Estella Bolger and Diamond Took for us."

"What do you mean?" asked Frodo, confused.

"What Pippin means is we're going to have partners at the Winter Ball. I think Estella and Diamond will agree to come," said Merry, his face blushed.

Frodo shook his head. "Then I'm going alone to the Winter Ball." He half eased into relief.

"You could always ask someone," said Pippin.

Frodo asked, "You mean with what happened between me and Pearl, your sister? No, it didn't work last time." He added, nearly tumbling on his own words, "Besides, the only way I could find the right woman is by courting her. Remember, we court. We don't date."

Pippin shrugged. "Suit yourself, cousin. I don't see how else you're going to find out whose right and whose not."

Frodo peered at one of the opposing booths. There, he saw Elijah Molvaro and Melena talking. Coral was among the two, speaking in murmurs. At one point, Coral's gaze fell on Frodo. Frodo looked away as he continued his conversation with his friends. Just as Coral left the diner, she was followed by her sister, Melena. Melena stopped her sister with her words.

"Coral, I know what you're thinking, but it's risky," said Melena.

"Frodo would have done the same for me," said Coral, protesting.

"Oh, and you're not thinking about turning human," said Melena.

Coral hesitated. "It isn't my place to say otherwise."

"Why not?" asked a new feminine voice. Out from the shadows crept Lara-Belle. Melena moved in front of Coral.

"You're not welcome here, Lara-Belle. Go away," said Melena, sharply.

"Believe me, Melena. If I had wanted to talk with you I would have done so. I'm asking to speak to Coral in private," said Lara-Belle.

"It is okay, Melena. I'll be all right," said Coral, following Lara-Belle. Melena stayed a short distance away from the two. Coral asked Lara-Belle, "What is it that you want?"

"I had hoped for privacy, but it seems we won't get that. You want to become a hobbit. I think I know just the person you can talk to. Her name is Yzma and she does wonders with creature transformation potions," said Lara-Belle.

"You're not seriously going to listen to her," said Melena, protesting.

"What do I have to do?" asked Coral.

Lara-Belle cracked a grin, "Well, first you need to…" She informed Coral of her plan. When the plan was settled, Lara-Belle turned to Melena and asked, "What?"

Melena explained, harshly, "Listen here, Lara-Belle: if this doesn't work and something goes wrong with Coral, I'll make sure you don't come near the headquarters again."

"Then I suggest we work quickly, Melena," said Lara-Belle.

Melena shook her head. "You know, I hope someday you live up to that nickname you were given, what was it, scar-re."

"I don't intend on being called anything less," said Lara-Belle, following Coral through one of the tunnels. Melena reluctantly followed them.

o-o-o

After crossing a portal, Lara-Belle, Melena, and Coral entered the palace of the ruler, Emperor Kuzco. Using a secret passageway, the three lionesses found the two levers. Only by pressing one of the levers, Melena and Coral notice Lara-Belle fall into an underwater trap filled with crocodiles. Lara-Belle returned with a crocodile still clamped onto her tail.

"Why does shehavethat lever?" asked Lara-Belle, kicking the crocodile away.

As Lara-Belle approached Melena and Coral, Melena pushed down on the other lever. The three lionesses landed in a buggy. The buggy moved down, revealing a fast rollercoaster. At the end of the rollercoaster, the three lionesses fell out of the buggy. Pulling off the laboratory clothes, Melena and Lara-Belle joined Coral in Yzma's Secret Lab. They were joined by Yzma, an elderly woman with pale lavender skin and wearing a sleeveless dress. She wore over her dress a white scientist jacket. Kronk, a muscular-built henchman, followed Yzma into the laboratory. Lara-Belle greeted Yzma almost too casual:

"Afternoon Yzma," said Lara-Belle, "How are things in the palace?"

"Oh, everything's fine. Everything's dandy," said Yzma, guiltily. Turning to Kronk, Yzma asked, "Isn't that right, Kronk?"

Kronk wasn't paying attention, as he petted Coral. Lara-Belle looked at the same time as Yzma, almost barring the same annoyed expression.

"Kronk," said Yzma, sternly. She watched Kronk as he backed away from Coral and Melena.

Lara-Belle informed Yzma, "Anyway, Coral needs a potion to transform her into a human, or rather a hobbit. Is that right, Coral?"

"Yes, I believe I mean to transform into a hobbit… if it's at all possible," said Coral, approaching her sister.

Yzma searched through her potions. When she found the right potion, Yzma gave it to Coral. Moments into drinking the potion, Coral noticed a physical change. She groaned as her limbs shrunk and her tail shortened towards her body. Her muzzle changed in size and she felt curly hobbit hair grow from her head and on top of her feet. Yzma cackled as the transformation took place. Lara-Belle joined in for a few moments. When the transformation was complete, Melena grabbed the nearest dress she could find, passing it onto Coral who was now in the form of a hobbit lass. Coral took the dress and put it over her head. Melena waited until Coral was dressed before telling her:

"We'll have to find you a new name, Coral."

"I've already thought of one, Melena," said Coral, surprised her vocal tone had become soft. "Katrina."

Lara-Belle co*cked her head, "It's not a bad name. Maybe a little difficult to remember, but…"

"No, Katrina is fine," said Melena. Facing Coral, Melena said, "Katrina it is."

"When is the Winter Ball?" asked Coral, now Katrina.

"In a few days, but it gives you time to practice walking on two legs and your speech impediment," said Melena. Turning to Yzma, Melena asked, "There had better be an antidote for this."

"Oh there is. Just return here, after you finish with this ball of yours, and we can transform her back into a lioness," said Yzma.

"I kind of liked you better as a lioness," said Kronk to Coral.

"It's only until after the Winter Ball," said Coral.

"Let's get to work," said Melena, leading her two sisters out of Yzma's Secret Lab.

On the morning of the Winter Ball, Frodo accompanied his hobbit friends into the first diner. With Merry and Pippin were Estella Bolger and Diamond Took. Frodo, after a while, left Sam, Merry, and Pippin to their hobbit women. As he walked down the hallway, Frodo spotted a few Animals flee towards one of the open doorways. Frodo reached the door moments after it was closed. From the wood, however, Frodo could hear a conversation amongst the Animals:

"…We could use Baggins to find a way to reach the Emerald Diadem," said a female bear.

"Even if we could do that, how do you think Frodo will react?" asked a male bear. "I say the best way to get Baggins to lead us to the Emerald Diadem is if we allow him a group."

"Do you mean an excavation group?" said a voice that sounded like Melissa. "That would take a whole lot of people. What if the villains caught us off-guard?"

"Melissa, you're not suggesting joining this excavation group, are you?" asked a voice that sounded like Nash.

"So? Even if Frodo succeeds, do you think I wouldn't be there to witness the moment?" asked Melissa.

"You forget, there are villains wanting to go after the same thing," said Melena. "They know about the Emerald Diadem, and if they get their hands on it… who knows what evil might spread."

"Frodo has the prophecy on him," said Aslan. "Even if we could manage to find the Emerald Diadem, who else is to say the villains wouldn't come after him again. The Evenshire Camp and the Terrabay Camp were both destroyed and evacuated. We cannot expect Frodo to join us in this endeavor. I've tried…"

"Aslan, all you've tried to do is hound Frodo over finding the Emerald Diadem. Haven't you thought at all whether he's even thought of joining us on this endeavor? He probably hasn't even thought on it, let alone care," exclaimed Melena.

"Nevertheless, I have faith that he will come around. We need that Emerald Diadem, if the heroes are to have an advantage against the villains," said Aslan.

"And with the prophecy still clinging to Frodo, there isn't a chance he…"

Aslan interrupted Melissa, "I have faith he will choose what is right. Still, we need the location of the Emerald Diadem, if we are to have any progress."

"I'll go check on Coral," said Melena, leaving the room.

Frodo backed away from the door as it opened. He walked a few feet away when Melena left the room. The door closed after her. Frodo watched Melena for a few moments, before she fled the scene. Frodo sighed in relief before walking further down the hallway.

o-o-o

That evening, Frodo changed into a clean white shirt, a deep blue vest, and a sapphire jacket. He left his suite soon after, heading towards the stairs. On the fourth floor, Frodo entered the ballroom. The ballroom was decorated in snow, holly, and wreaths, making the room itself festive. Frodo approached the food tables first, where he gathered on a plate chicken, ribs, fresh fruit, vegetables and a small dessert. He grabbed a drink from the last table, before finding a spot at a round table. His cousins Merry and Pippin joined him in moments. Frodo nearly choked as Merry patted him on the back. Before Frodo could get a conversation out, Merry and Pippin left the table with Estella and Diamond. Melena approached the table moments later.

"You're not dancing?" asked Melena.

"I just arrived minutes ago, Melena," said Frodo, as he gobbled on the rib.

"Oh," said Melena. "Well then, after you finish eating. There are plenty of eligible women that you may want to consider dancing with."

"Not this again," groaned Frodo. "Melena, if you're asking me to dance with the fans…"

Melena interrupted him. "Who did you have in mind to dance with, Frodo?" She waited for a response, but none came. "Look, you may want to consider it. You never know who might show up tonight."

Frodo thought for a few moments. He then gave up, "All right. But like last time, I won't find the right hobbit lass for me."

Melena said, stunned, "You sure about that? How will you know when you meet the right woman?"

Frodo said, dazing off, "When I do find the right lass, she'll…"

"Forget I asked," said Melena. "You still might want to consider stepping out on the dance floor at some point, Frodo."

As Melena walked away, Frodo shook his head. He murmured, "At least I'll have a lot in common with my soul mate, if I ever get the chance to see her." He continued eating in silence.

Moments after he finished his meal, Frodo was dragged out onto the dance floor by one of the fangirls. He caught a glimpse of Sam and Rosie dancing, as well as Merry with Estella and Pippin with Diamond. After having a dance with the fangirl, Melena helped bring another fangirl to dance with Frodo. As the procession continued, Frodo was reminded of the Heroes' Welcome Ball, with a vivid memory of him dancing with fangirls then. One of the fangirls pointed out the Nutcracker was present with his wife, but also Amor dancing with Jezebel in their hedgehog manner. Before Melissa had a chance to dance with Frodo, she was caught by Nash, who instead danced with her.

Just as the dance ended, Frodo's gaze fell on the open doorway. There, he saw a hobbit lass enter. She had dark hair and wore a golden-hued dress. For a moment, Frodo thought of the girl he saw in his strange dreams. He was wrong when the hobbit lass approached him, for her eyes were gray. The hobbit lass curtseyed before him. Feeling pitiful, Frodo brought the hobbit lass' gaze to his, moments before they danced. As they dance, Frodo journeyed into a conversation with the hobbit lass:

"Who are you?"

"I'm Katrina," said the hobbit lass.

"You don't have a last name?" asked Frodo.

The hobbit lass hesitated. "Uh… it must have slipped my mind."

"Everyone has a last name," said Frodo.

"Technically, animals don't…" She hesitated, knowing she let something about her slip.

"How would you know?"

The hobbit lass planted a kiss on Frodo. Frodo stopped dancing and kissed her back. When they ended the kiss, Frodo looked shocked yet his heart felt nothing.

The hobbit lass curtseyed, "I'm sorry. I hope you enjoy the rest of the dance." She took off towards Melena, who had the potion ready for her use.

When Frodo reached the hobbit lass, he witnessed her drinking the potion. In a few moments, the hobbit lass that stood before him was a scarred lioness. He right away knew who it was he danced with.

"Coral?" asked Frodo.

The scarred lioness confirmed this with teary eyes. "Frodo, I'm sorry. I…" She stopped when she saw Frodo walk away, peeved.

Reaching the balcony, Frodo noticed Legolas had followed him. Frodo stopped before the stone railing as the elf approached him.

"Frodo, what brings you here?" asked Legolas.

Frodo explained as best he could, "Only that one of my lioness friends went to such lengths to make herself a hobbit. I'm not sure what her ploy was, but…"

"A lioness became a hobbit? Why?" asked Legolas, confused.

"I don't know. Maybe she wanted to get to know me more, or to have a dance with me," said Frodo.

"Come on. We should head back inside," said Legolas. He watched Frodo nod in agreement.

As Legolas and Frodo returned to the ballroom, they and other party guests witnessed Aslan enter the ballroom. Aslan looked amongst the crowd with serene eyes. He spoke at once in his usual tone:

"As some of you know, the sleeping chambers are almost ready. For those who wish to be the first to test the chambers, feel free to do so, but I will need eight volunteers."

There was silence amongst the crowd. Then a voice rang, "I'll do it. I'll climb into the sleeping chamber." The voice belonged to Frodo.

"As will I," said Sam.

"So will we," said Merry and Pippin in unison.

Aslan nodded, "Very well. We need four more volunteers."

Rosie, Estella, and Diamond all agreed to the task. As Frodo walked out of the ballroom, he was followed by Lucy Pevensie. They just left the hall when Melissa also agreed to test the sleeping chambers. Out in the hallway, Lucy stopped Frodo with her words.

"You're not thinking of running again, are you? Edmund told me what happened at Prevale," said Lucy.

Frodo approached her. "All I ask for is to be healed, and to find a way home."

"Do you think that, after you return home, your life is going to be the same as it was before you left? A lot has changed, and so have you. How hard is that to understand?" asked Lucy.

Frodo paused. "I wish for that sometimes. I hope that the Shire is safe and so is everyone at home." He asked, "Why haven't you spoken to me much? Are you worried I might have another dream with you?"

"No, it's just… I wondered if you were all right when you journeyed to find the source of the falling stars. But now…" said Lucy. Without thinking, she planted Frodo a kiss. She was surprised when Frodo kissed her back. Once she was released, Lucy said, "I should go."

Frodo nodded, "Yes. You probably should."

Lucy said last, "Good evening, Mister Baggins." She bolted back to the ballroom.

Frodo murmured, "Good evening to you, too, Miss Pevensie." He wandered back upstairs to his suite.

Outside the headquarters, on Captain Hook's ship, the villains heard classical ballroom music playing. Captain Hook nearly turned the ship around when Rumplestiltskin came aboard. Captain Hook jumped in surprise at seeing the man with the gold skin.

"I've already met someone named Hook," said Rumplestiltskin.

"Who has sullied my name?" complained Hook.

Nuka looked in shock. "Do you think Coral backed down?"

Zira shushed him. "Hush! Lara-Belle did well getting Coral to agree to the transformation. With luck, Coral will be on our side."

"We do not know that yet, Zira," said Maleficent. Using the orb from her staff, Maleficent said, "Lara-Belle, continue with your approach. Coral's as good as ours." The light from the orb dimmed.

Chapter 17: 16: The Sleeping Chamber

Chapter by Aria Breuer (Aria_Breuer)

Chapter Text

Chapter Sixteen:

The Sleeping Chamber

Early the next morning, Frodo got out of bed and changed into some of his formal clothes. He was found by Sam minutes afterwards, who noticed Frodo was still seated on the bed. Frodo glanced at his friend, who waited by the bedroom door.

"Master Frodo, what is it?" asked Sam. He understood. "If you're having second thoughts about… you don't have to go through with it."

"I should, if I expect to be healed," said Frodo. He approached the door, noticing Sam moving out of his way.

"I just want to be sure you're doing all right," said Sam.

"I'm fine, Sam. Trust me, after this… Sam, you don't need to do this. I need the healing," said Frodo.

"I know. It's just…"

"Sam," said Frodo, leading the way out of the suite.

o-o-o

Lucy met with her siblings in the diner on the fourth floor.

"Any word yet?" asked Lucy, curious.

"Quiet!" cried Ron, shushing her.

Harry turned the volume up on the radio. He listened to a broadcast on the latest activity of other heroes. The Pevensies seemed just as interested as he. Lucy looked out from the opening, only to find Frodo accompanying Sam and Rosie to the sleeping chamber. She saw Frodo glance once at her, before returning his gaze to his friends. Lucy returned her attention to the latest news on the radio.

o-o-o

Inside the chamber, Frodo, Sam, and Rosie awaited the arrival of Merry and Pippin. The two hobbits showed up with Estella Bolger and Diamond Took. Both hobbit lasses remained confused over why they were going to sleep for twenty years. Merry and Pippin assured them slowly they would survive, or so they hoped. Frodo looked warily as Melissa arrived with Nash and Aslan.

"I've told you, Melissa. You may watch, not participate," said Aslan, much to the relief of Frodo and Merry.

"Why can't I join them?" asked Melissa, curious.

"No!" cried Frodo and Merry in unison. The two fell silent in seconds.

Melissa shrugged. Frustrated, Melissa said, "Of course. Why bother asking?" Turning to Aslan, Melissa pointed out, "You're still short one person."

"Then I will make do. Thank you for your time, Melissa, Nash," said Aslan.

"Come on, Melissa. Let Aslan do his work," said Nash, encouraging Melissa.

Melissa jerked away at Nash's touch. "I don't need your assistance."

Nash fired back, "I was only trying to help. You needn't be so vain."

"I'm not vain! Why would you say that?" barked Melissa, as she and Nash left the chamber. The two instead stood inside an ante-room, which had a looking-glass.

Aslan turned to the seven hobbits still in the chamber. Aslan asked them in unison, "Shall we begin?"

Frodo looked back at the looking-glass, only to see Melissa's glare. Returning his gaze to the gold-embroidered, technological beds, Frodo searched for his. He found his bed at the right-end of the chamber. Moments into his friends getting into their beds, Frodo climbed up the stairs and moved into his bed. As he lied down, Frodo noticed Aslan approach the bed.

"Frodo, how are you managing?" asked Aslan. He received no response. "Good luck to you and pleasant dreams. I'll send the healers in once you've fallen into deep sleep."

"How will you know…?" Frodo was silenced by Aslan.

"I'll know, Frodo, as will those participating in…"

"We're ready to start the chamber…" Frodo only half-heard a woman speaking.

Aslan replied last, "Good luck, Frodo. I'll see you when you awaken."

"Wait, what?" asked Frodo. He was stopped when Aslan left his bedside.

After hearing some voices, Frodo noticed his surroundings dim. His eyelids closed. He heard voices as they faded. He felt pricks here and there before they too faded. As the darkness surrounded his vision, it changed fast to vivid dreams. As he lost track of the time, he remembered nothing else afterwards.

End of Part I

Chapter 18: Teaser: Twenty Years Later

Chapter by Aria Breuer (Aria_Breuer)

Chapter Text

Teaser:

Twenty Years Later…

Luke Skywalker had just destroyed the Death Star, the Galactic Empire's weapon. A victory was held in Luke, Han Solo, and the Wookie Chewbacca's honor on the planet Yavin IV. The three continued to fight battle after battle in the Galactic Civil War. During the passing year, Luke founded the Rogue Squadron, an elite Rebel Alliance starfighter squadron that played a key role during the civil war. His renown quickly led to the attention of the Empire, but also other eyes.

As Aslan watched the stars, from his tent in the Evenshire Camp, he knew something had changed in the galaxy far, far away. "It's time to send his son here."

While flying in space, a glint of light caught Luke's eyes. The astromech droid, R2-D2, beeped in alarm. He sent Luke a message about the bright lights that continued to flicker.

"No, it's all right R2. It's probably just some stars blinking," said Luke.

Just then, the light grew brighter. Before Luke had time to check his controls and fly away from the sight, the light pulled in Luke's T-65 X-wing ship. Elsewhere in space, on his Super Star Destroyer ship the Executor, Darth Vader spotted the same lights. Vader called one of his soldiers over to the window.

"Do you see those lights? Why are they blinking?" asked Darth Vader.

"I don't know, sir. Could be a star," said the soldier.

"Then find out why they keep blinking. Go," said Darth Vader.

"Right away, my lord," said the soldier, rushing off.

The admiral informed Vader, "My lord, the Emperor is expecting you."

"On my way, admiral," said Vader. He stepped inside a large holodeck. Kneeling on the platform, a hologram of the Emperor appeared before him. "Why is thy bidding, my master?"

"There is a disturbance in the Force. I have a feeling you are going to tell me something important," said Emperor Palpatine.

"Two stars continue to blink in space. I do not know what they mean," said Vader.

"I do. Do you remember when Anakin Skywalker traveled with eight companions? Those lights could be related," said the Emperor.

"How can that be possible?" asked Vader, confused.

"Search your feelings and you will understand. If those 'companions' interfere with our plans, it could be destructive," said the Emperor.

"It's been twenty years. I doubt any of them are still young enough for a challenge," said Vader.

"That is true, but I still advise caution. Find out what those lights mean and report back to me. Is that understood?" asked the Emperor.

"Yes, my master," said Vader, bowing before the hologram. Returning to the deck, Vader told the admiral, "Move the ship forward. I want to see where those lights take us."

"Yes, my lord," said the admiral, before ordering his men to move the ship towards the blinking stars.

Luke shielded his eyes as the ship passed through the light. Leaving the light, Luke was unsure what galaxy and time he entered. As he spoke to R2 about any damage the ship might have taken, Luke peered out the ship's window at an oncoming red, rounded ship. Inside the ship was a strange blue alien with six arms and blue talons. Luke moved the ship out of the way before the blue alien could hit him. The blue alien, suddenly interested, banged his ship against Luke's X-wing. The blue alien then said a few words before launching the ship in another direction.

R2 made a series of beeping sounds.

"No R2. I don't know what that creature was," said Luke.

R2 beeped and booped.

"Yes R2. We'll find out where we are, as soon as we find a planet to land on… if we're near any planets," said Luke. He drove his ship through space.

For a while, Luke saw no planets, only a series of stars that blinked on and off. At one point, a passing ship with a large round exterior and two lighted spires passed through into another light, missing Luke's ship by inches. The ship did have a name: U.S.S. Enterprise, only Luke did not know what the name meant.

Eventually, Luke did find land, but no planet. As he drove his ship down, Luke noticed the atmosphere was rough on the ship. Coming out from the atmosphere, Luke found the land was partially untouched. Landing his ship on a tall cliff, Luke opened the hatch and stepped out of his ship. R2 followed. Luke knew he would need directions on how to return to his galaxy, but for the time being he needed to find out where he was. He hoped the land he entered had friendly people and creatures.

Chapter 19: 17: Trial and Awakening

Chapter by Aria Breuer (Aria_Breuer)

Chapter Text

Chapter Seventeen:

Trial and Awakening

Nineteen Years Ago…

At another villains' encampment, on the Limbo World Peradus, a stout Orc, wearing armor made from animal bones, iron, and another metal, grabbed a set of keys from a nearby wall. The Orc snickered as he approached one of the stone cells. Unlocking the cell, the Orc grabbed a bruised scarred lion by the nap of his neck.

The Orc continued his snickering. "It's your time, Tack. Tack; is that the name they've been calling you?"

The scarred lion gave no response. The Orc shoved the scarred lion forward, careening the lion to hit a wooden post. The Orcs in the dungeon laughed in bemusem*nt. Injured, the scarred lion named Tack stood up. While he did not speak to his captors, somewhere inside Tack's mind told him to be brave in face of his adversaries. He remembered being imprisoned for twenty years, due to him helping to save Coral and the heroes against the villains' attacks. He wanted to be good for her, yet he did not know her fate.

Climbing out of the dungeon, Tack was led by his captors down a tunnel. Leaving the tunnel, Tack's captors led the scarred lion inside what appeared to be a large court room. Tack noticed many villains and villainesses had come to witness his trial. He even noticed Maleficent standing behind the podium, where a judge would stand or sit.

"Tack, formerly known as Rash, you are here under the gravest of circ*mstances," said Maleficent. "Yet you come under your free will. That's odd for a scarred lion."

Tack noticed a familiar face among the crowd of scarred lions and lionesses. "Coral, what are you doing here?"

Maleficent waved a hand. "Yes, I can see you've met the scarred lioness now named Katrina." Turning to the scarred lioness, Maleficent said, "Tell me, Katrina, do you know this lion?"

The scarred lioness faced Tack. She saw the desperate look he carried. She shook her head, saying, "I hardly know this scarred lion."

"Coral, it's me Rash. Don't you remember?" asked Tack. He was banged on the head by an Orc, who told him to keep quiet.

Maleficent continued. "For your insolence, Tack, you are hereby forced to work in the mines and out on the field with the other scarred lions and lionesses that also betrayed us villains. We will return to your case in a year's time to see if you've… improved."

"You can't do this to me! You'll regret this!" cried Tack.

Maleficent ordered the Orcs, "Take this scarred lion back to the dungeons. He will be sent to the mines in two days."

Tack struggled and fought as he was led back to his cell. Upon returning to the cell, the Orcs kicked and shoved Tack back inside the cell, closing the door and locking it just as Tack lunged towards them. He stopped growling when he saw his captors leaving him inside his cell.

The Present…

Frodo Baggins awoke from his twenty-year sleep. He slowly remembered he had rested in the Animal Headquarters. Moving around, Frodo found his body was healed, as if new. Dark thoughts attempted to penetrate his mind, yet Frodo quickly pushed those thoughts off to the side. Leaving his pod, Frodo was greeted and embraced by his hobbit friends Samwise Gamgee, Meriadoc Brandybuck, and Peregrin Took. The hobbit lasses Rosie Cotton, Estella Bolger, and Diamond Took looked relieved to see Frodo again.

Once he was released, Frodo asked, "Any idea what has happened here?" He thought alongside his friends, who looked just as puzzled.

"Well, my fear is that everyone we knew has grown old. Why aren't we older?" asked Sam.

"I don't know, Sam. That's what I'd like to know," said Frodo.

"I believe we were told that by Aslan. He said something about us not aging as we slept," said Pippin.

"Feels like it was only yesterday that we went to sleep in those pods," said Merry.

Pippin pointed out what appeared to be two swords on top of a table. The hobbits approached the table with candor. As Frodo looked at the two swords, he recognized them. The sword on the top was Finder, while the sword at the bottom – Frodo couldn't believe it – was Sting re-forged. Frodo stared at the two swords for a few minutes, awed that both had survived twenty years. Frodo strapped the sword Sting first, before strapping the sword Finder second to his belt.

The hobbits were about ready to leave the pod room when the doors were busted open by a gigantic spider. Noticing the blind eyes, Sam recognized the spider. He told Frodo right away:

"Master Frodo, its Shelob! Hand me Sting! I'll take care of her!" cried Sam, extending his hand.

However, Frodo was pushed to the ground by Shelob. Pulling out Sting from its sheath, Frodo cut off one of Shelob's legs. The spider backed off, lurching in pain. Just as Aslan approached the scene, he stopped several heroes from helping Frodo.

Finding himself facing Shelob alone, Frodo prepared for another attack. Shelob charged forward, hoping to catch her prey off-balance. Frodo, forced to the floor once again, did his best to avoid Shelob's stinger. He soon nailed Shelob in the same place Sam had when he fought the spider. Free from the spider's grasp, Frodo reached for Galadriel's phial, which was on the same table where the two swords had been. As he did so, the spider lunged towards Frodo. Aslan roared, just as Frodo shined the light in Shelob's face. The spider, remembering the light, cowered in a full retreat into one of the nearest tunnels. The spider disappeared into the shadows.

After the light from the phial dimmed, Frodo turned his gaze to Aslan. The Lion looked at Frodo with approving eyes.

"You did well, Frodo, better than the first time you encountered that spider," said Aslan.

"Shelob isn't coming back, is she?" asked Pippin, curious and concerned.

"It doesn't look like it, Pippin," said Merry, encouraging.

Aslan told Frodo and the hobbits, "Come. We have much to discuss."

o-o-o

Leaving the sleeping chamber, Frodo found he was back on the fourth floor of the Animal Headquarters. So far, nothing seemed changed. It was until a group of unicorns – cloven hoofs, silvery mane, white fur and all – approached the hobbits and Lion that was different. One of the unicorns jumped up and down upon seeing Frodo.

"The Ring-bearer is here, just as you said Aslan," said the youngest female unicorn.

The eldest female unicorn silenced the youngest. Facing the group, she said, "You'll have to forgive my sister. She's not used to meeting famous Halflings."

"Who are you?" asked Frodo, confused.

The eldest female unicorn said in introduction, "My name is Summer." She gestured to the younger and youngest unicorns. "That is Pearl, and Midnight… my sisters."

"And I'm Tailgate," said a male unicorn in introduction. "Nice to meet you." He noticed glares coming from Midnight and Pearl. "What?"

Frodo turned to Aslan, and said, "Aslan, where's Coral?"

Midnight shook her head. "She's not among any of us here. I think she regrouped with the villains."

"What?" asked Frodo, shocked. "I trusted her."

"Well, you know how scarred lionesses behave," said Midnight.

"That isn't the point. Coral is my friend," said Frodo.

Aslan interrupted. "May we continue this discussion in more private places? Speaking out in the hallway will leave room for ears to hear." He led the group to one of the meeting rooms.

o-o-o

A hour passed. Inside one of the smaller meeting rooms, Frodo and his hobbit friends spoke long and hard with Aslan over the major events that occurred in the limbo world Peradus, during their twenty-year sleep. The unicorns had joined them, as did Melena who did not look pleased to hear news of her sisters Coral and Lara-Belle. When the conversation turned to the Emerald Diadem, the room fell silent. Only Frodo seemed interested to carry on the conversation from there:

"Aslan, remind me about the Emerald Diadem," said Frodo. "I mean, everyone here seems interested in finding the crown…"

The door opened. In stepped Melissa with Nash, much to Frodo's surprise.

"So sorry. What did we miss," said Melissa.

"We were just talking about the Emerald Diadem," said Aslan.

Hardly paying attention, Melissa asked, "Very good. So, what did we miss?"

"Maybe if you were paying attention more often, you would know," said Melena.

Frodo responded. "From Aslan's telling of the Emerald Diadem, it comes to my attention that we may not be the only ones out looking for it."

Melena only thought of one word. "Villains. And Coral's among them." She added, "I did hear Vacron and Vasis say that the Emerald Diadem is at a place where spring meets winter. I'm not sure what that means…"

"Did they mean a place literally or figuratively?" asked Pippin.

"Pippin, I'm sure it's not literal," said Merry.

"Well, if it is literal, then someone needs to look into it," said Melena.

"I know, and that's why I'm sending out an excavation group," said Aslan. "Any who wishes to find the Emerald Diadem may join this group."

"I guess that means bringing the second Fellowship back in," said Frodo.

"Without Coral, you may be one member short," said Melena.

"If you want to join us, you can," said Frodo.

"Hang on, what about the first Fellowship, Frodo? Surely you don't intend on leaving us behind again," asked Merry.

"Come on, Master Frodo. At least let us help you," said Sam.

Frodo turned to Aslan. "I suppose, if we bring both Fellowships together…"

Melissa intervened. "Hang on, what about me and Nash? Oh come on. Don't leave us abandoned."

"A rather large group, but acceptable in this case. I'll find the others and round them up. Should you ever need my help, all you have to do is pray," said Aslan.

Frodo nodded. "Thank you, Aslan."

Nash shook his head.

Melissa asked Nash, stunned, "What now?"

"Oh come on. You actually expect to suddenly be friends with this group?" asked Nash.

"If only Elijah were here," said Melissa.

"Well, he's not and we're all they've got," said Nash, pointing out the hobbits.

Frodo waited a good few moments before speaking with Aslan. "Aslan, can I have a word?" Once he and Aslan were well out of earshot, Frodo spoke again, "Aslan, I know you're sending us out to find this Emerald Diadem. What if we don't find it? I mean, what if this quest isn't what is expected?"

"Frodo, the reason I say we find the Emerald Diadem is that if its power falls into the wrong hands… it could be devastating," said Aslan.

"Is Middle-earth still frozen in time?" asked Frodo. "And how is it that Sam, Merry, Pippin, and I are still young?"

"Listen, time is precarious. If not done right, the consequences are grave. But yes, each world and each universe has its own timeline. The limbo worlds are different with time, as they are not often affected by it. In Middle-earth's case, yes it is still frozen," said Aslan.

"When will time start again there?" asked Frodo.

"When you and your friends decide to stay there for good, then I will unfreeze time," said Aslan. "Now, I think it's time to gather your friends up again, wouldn't you?"

Frodo looked up upon seeing a man with blondish-brown hair and wearing a pilot's orange uniform. The man also carried with him a lightsaber; the very same lightsaber Frodo remembered Anakin Skywalker possessing.

Aslan said, "Another Jedi. Good."

Frodo asked the man, "And who are you?"

The man said in introduction, "I am Luke Skywalker. You wouldn't know where the nearest cantina is?"

Aslan spoke before Frodo had a chance, "It's here on the fourth floor. Just follow the hallway until you reach the main stairs. You'll find the cantina from there."

"Thanks," said Luke, walking away.

Frodo, not taking any chances, followed the man. Reaching the diner, Frodo rushed over to a stool and sat next to him. Luke ordered a drink from the Husky dog Grayson, who passed it to him. After taking a sip, Luke turned to the hobbit.

"What are you supposed to be?" asked Luke, calmly. "You look like a child, yet you're not."

"I'm a hobbit and yes, people think of my race as children. That isn't the point," said Frodo.

"Ask away, dear friend," said Luke.

"Your name sounds so familiar. Are you aware of a Jedi named Anakin Skywalker?" asked Frodo.

Luke shook his head. "Not that I'm aware of. The Jedi are all but extinct in my galaxy."

"The same one Anakin has to be from," said Frodo.

"You seem awful interested in this Anakin Skywalker," said Luke.

"Only because he reminds me of you: headstrong and everything," said Frodo.

"Well, that can be helped," said Luke.

"Listen, my friends and I lost Anakin Skywalker, and we need a ninth member. If you want to join us on our excavation, you can," said Frodo.

"I need to find a way back home. I came here by this silvery light," said Luke. "Listen, thank you for acknowledging me, but I'm afraid that's all I can afford."

"You haven't heard me out," said Frodo.

Luke said, stunned, "Very well, hobbit."

"I'm Frodo Baggins," said Frodo in introduction. "And I'm sure you wouldn't be here by chance."

Luke sighed. "Now you sound like Ben Kenobi. All right, let me in on this venture of yours."

"My friends and I are going to be looking for this Emerald Diadem, a crown of sorts that can grant wishes and do other things. If found in the right hands, it may give us an advantage against the villains," explained Frodo.

"Do you know where to look for this crown?" asked Luke, curious.

"Melena said it's at a place where spring meets winter. I'm not sure what that means," said Frodo.

Luke spat out his drink. He apologized before saying, "I did see a place like that on my way down to this world. I think I know where to find it, but it's beyond this base."

"Well, that's a start," said Frodo.

"I could guide you and your friends, if you'd like?" asked Luke. "I can't promise you we'll find this Emerald Diadem, but it's a feat we'll have to make."

"So you're coming along?" asked Frodo.

"Until you find your crown, then yes," said Luke.

Frodo admitted, happily, "You're much kinder than Anakin was."

"I trust he was a friend of yours," said Luke.

Frodo said, "A friend of sorts. We didn't really get along too well, but he seemed concerned for me." He ended the conversation there. "Well, I guess I'll see you, when the time comes."

"Yes. Farewell for now, my little friend," said Luke, taking another drink.

Frodo left the diner feeling relieved. Somehow, he had a feeling things were going to turn out better than the first few times. He just hoped he and his friends weren't going to run into any obstacles along the way.

Chapter 20: 18: Reconsiderations

Chapter by Aria Breuer (Aria_Breuer)

Chapter Text

Chapter Eighteen:

Reconsiderations

While Aslan searched for the other heroes, including Jack Sparrow, more happenings occurred at the Animal Headquarters. Frodo, while doing a search of his own, wondered if Lucy Pevensie was still a teenager or had grown up. The second he found Lucy and her brothers and sister, Frodo embraced Lucy. Lucy was indeed still a teenager. Among the Pevensies was Reepicheep, who had decided to stay at Narnia when time was frozen there. The Pevensies and Reepicheep left Frodo and Lucy alone the second they started kissing.

As Merry walked down the halls, Melissa caught up to him. Apparently, she had something on her mind.

"Merry, can I join you?" asked Melissa.

"Certainly," said Merry.

"Where's Estella?" asked Melissa.

"She returned home with Diamond. Why do you ask?" asked Merry, confused.

"It's just… in the past twenty years, I've been doing a lot of thinking," said Melissa.

"That's a surprise," said Merry.

Melissa stopped Merry in his tracks. "Look, I know you must think me wicked for asking, but do you still have feelings for me?"

Merry hesitated. "I'm not sure what you mean."

"Oh come now, Merry," said Melissa. "Surely you must feel something for me."

"Melissa, I don't think we should have this conversation," said Merry.

"Why not?" asked Melissa.

Before Merry could say two words, Melissa kissed him square on the lips. In spite of thoughts of Estella returning, Merry felt something for Melissa. The two were unaware, while they kissed, that Nash was watching them. He turned away in disgust before Merry and Melissa stopped. Once the two released, Merry and Melissa were smiling.

o-o-o

Rushing inside the diner on the fourth floor, Nash noticed the portrait of Sir Cadogan hung on a wall. After finding Frodo and Lucy together, Nash approached the two. Sir Cadogan listened in.

Frodo asked, "Nash, what's wrong?"

"I just saw Merry with Melissa. They're at it again," said Nash.

Frodo asked, concerned, "What? You saw them?"

"I think those two are together for the long haul, but it's beyond me," said Nash.

"What dastardly villains are these?" cried Sir Cadogan.

"Good point," said Frodo. He returned his gaze to Nash, "But Merry said he wouldn't get involved with Melissa anymore."

"Well, clearly he's doing otherwise," said Nash.

Frodo turned to Lucy. Lucy told him, "I know. Go help your cousin."

"Thank you for understanding, Lucy," said Frodo, kissing Lucy on the cheek. "I'll be back."

Lucy asked, after Frodo left the table, "Do you think he'll resolve this issue?"

"He'd better. I have enough time sorting out Melissa as it is," said Nash.

"You must care for her," said Lucy.

"I wish that were true," said Nash.

Coming up to Sir Cadogan's portrait, Frodo asked him, "Do you know where they are: Merry and Melissa?"

"A quest, is it? Never fear, I will find them," said Sir Cadogan.

"Can I follow you?" asked Frodo.

"Certainly, good hobbit," said Sir Cadogan, fleeing from his portrait to the next.

Frodo chased after Sir Cadogan. Upon finding one of the nearest balconies, Frodo noticed Sir Cadogan stopped at the last portrait. He showed Frodo Merry and Melissa talking amongst themselves. Frodo chose then to intervene.

"There you are! Merry, what are you doing with her?" asked Frodo. He noticed Melissa's huffed expression.

Merry quietly told Melissa, "Can you excuse me? I'm just going to talk to my cousin."

"Certainly, Merry," said Melissa. She walked away, glaring at Frodo.

Frodo repeated, once he and Merry were alone, "Merry, what were you doing with her?"

"It's really not your place to know that, cousin," said Merry.

"Well, it's in my best interest to know when my cousin is with the wrong woman," said Frodo.

"Just because you don't like Melissa, doesn't mean that I have to listen to you," said Merry.

"Merry, I thought you had changed your ways," said Frodo.

"Frodo…" Merry calmed down. "Look, I care about Melissa. You can't just keep parading around, telling me what to do or how to live my life."

"I don't trust Melissa. I thought you didn't either," said Frodo.

"Well, we seem to have a problem," said Merry.

"You can't court her, Merry. Something's not right about Melissa," said Frodo.

Melissa returned, bringing Victoria with her. She told Merry, "Frodo's right. You shouldn't court me. You might as well court Victoria first."

"I thought you wanted us to be together, Melissa?" asked Merry.

"Well, now I've changed my mind," said Melissa.

"I really don't have to be here," said Victoria.

"Nonsense. Besides, Merry needs to be with someone," said Melissa.

"What's your play?" asked Merry.

Melissa said, "Nothing. It's just, you can't reason with Frodo."

Frodo started, "But this doesn't solve anything…"

Merry interrupted. "I'll see what I can do." He took Victoria with him down the hallway.

Frodo glared at Melissa, who showed a carefree expression. Melissa told Frodo, "Now, don't tell me that ruins your plans."

"Merry is a good hobbit. He wouldn't do anything rash," said Frodo.

Melissa shrugged. "Maybe you don't know him as well as you like to think."

"If anything happens to Merry, I'm blaming you," said Frodo.

"Oh, suddenly miss your cousin?" Melissa suggested, "If I were you, I'd focus more on the Emerald Diadem, not on your cousin. It would serve his better interests."

"Merry won't do anything rash. You don't know him," said Frodo.

"And I thought you did?" asked Melissa. Seeing she had the conversation, she ended it there, "Good luck trying to separate us now, Baggins. It'll only work for so long."

All Frodo could do was shake his head.

Time pressed on, yet the limbo worlds felt little time passing. During the long winter, Merry Brandybuck wedded Victoria Snowberry. Dexter Corner looked on in awe and jealousy. Frodo could hardly believe it, even after Merry was wed. He felt sure that Merry would choose wiser council than trusting Melissa's word. At the reception, Frodo walked out onto the balcony. He was joined by his cousin Merry, who seemed determined to speak with him.

"It's been too long since we last spoke, cousin," said Merry.

"You should be happy. You have a wife now," said Frodo.

"But a friend I'm lacking. Frodo, when did you think it was a bad idea for me to marry Victoria?" asked Merry.

"It should be obvious. This was Melissa's fault. You shouldn't have listened to her. I knew there was rotten about her," said Frodo.

"You've always been against Melissa," said Merry.

"And I know my reasons," said Frodo. "I just can't understand why you didn't go along with me."

"Cousin, I know you are wise, but Victoria isn't out to get me, and neither is Melissa," said Merry.

"Come on, Merry. I thought you cared about Estella and only Estella. I don't understand why you chose someone who isn't your match," said Frodo.

"Frodo, why do you go on and on about finding the right love?" said Merry.

"I still believe there is hope of finding the right person, no matter the distance and no matter who they are. If something is bound to exist, then it must exist, in spite of what others say," said Frodo. "Merry, I care for you as a cousin. I just don't want to see you doing something you'll regret."

"Well, I haven't yet regretted it, now have I?" asked Merry. "You may be right or you may be wrong. Who knows?" And with that, he returned to the reception.

Frodo followed in moments.

Elsewhere…

The fields where the scarred lions and lionesses worked were a desolate wasteland. Not much vegetation grew there. The fields were near the mining caves, where a long narrow tunnel network lay miles beneath the surface. This was where Tack ended up serving his punishment for standing up against the villains' tyranny. In spite of the labor, Tack became acquainted with a scarred lion. It seemed he wasn't the only one suffering under the villains' reign.

"Warley, come here. What's happened?" asked Tack.

"Recent news is one of the hobbits at the Animal Headquarters got married. Sent a great rouse it did," said Warley, once he was close by.

"Which hobbit?" asked Tack.

"I don't know. I guess he goes by the name of Merry," said Warley.

"Frodo's friend or was he a cousin?" asked Tack.

"How should I know?" asked Warley, before returning to his work.

"There must be some way to leave this mining field," said Tack, thinking of a plan.

"Well, good luck trying to sort that out. I hope the villains don't catch you," said Warley.

Tack jumped upon hearing the sound of a whip. He glanced once at an orc, who kept telling the scarred lions and lionesses to get back to work. Tack, hoping not to get whipped again, returned to his business that he had been charged.

At the Animal Headquarters…

A year passed across the limbo world. Merry and Victoria were blessed with a son. So far, they and their friends were happy for them. Dexter looked on as the child grew up, ever wondering if he had any real chance with Victoria. When the boy became two years old, Dexter gained his chance to meet with Victoria and ask her about her marriage with Merry.

"The days wane and yet here you are, ever a blossom," said Dexter, getting the hobbit lass' attention.

"It is good to see you, Dexter," said Victoria.

"Do you think it would have been different if you had married me, instead of Merry?" asked Dexter, curious.

"You are a good friend, Dexter. You'll be a wise father someday," said Victoria.

"Is that all I am to you? A friend?" asked Dexter, offended. "All I ever wanted was hope that someday you would choose me."

"I cannot re-marry. I am happy with Merry," said Victoria.

"Are you?" asked Dexter, unconvinced. "I've waited a long time to know if your happiness lingered by a man that you did not love."

"Merry is my husband. I cannot break that oath," said Victoria. "I'm sorry, Dexter."

Dexter grabbed Victoria by the hand. "At least come away with me. We'll run away together and start a new life elsewhere, away from this dreaded headquarters."

"If I chose to run away with you, what kind of life would that give my son? I cannot abandon my family," said Victoria. She walked away, back inside the headquarters where she found her son.

o-o-o

As the months passed, Merry noticed a change in Victoria. He also noticed how Victoria was spending time with Dexter. Concerned, Merry spoke with Victoria alone in their suite one day.

"Are you happy, Victoria?" asked Merry.

"I am. Thank you for asking," said Victoria.

"You don't sound happy. In fact, you almost sound concerned. Your heart belongs to another," said Merry.

"If it's all the same to you, I would rather…"

"Victoria, if things weren't working out in the first place…"

"Merry, thank you for your consideration, but I cannot break up our marriage. I won't be parted from you, in spite of what has happened," said Victoria, defensive.

Merry pushed Victoria's head up by her chin. "Yet I know your heart belongs to another hobbit. You care for Dexter Corner."

"I had hoped you wouldn't notice," said Victoria. "I would suggest we divorce, but that would ruin…"

"If it is the only way to end your suffering, then let's not wait. I understand this wasn't going to work out, since the beginning. We shouldn't have listened to Melissa," said Merry.

"Thank you for your concern." She added, "On the condition that I take my son with me."

"You don't want me to have him?" asked Merry, now concerned.

"If it's all the same to you…"

Merry gave in, "I suppose I can't convince you otherwise. All right, we'll sign the divorce papers. Then you can be with Dexter and be happy…"

"Merry, you're a good husband. I'm sure you'll find the right lass someday," said Victoria.

Merry nodded, and then said, "If I haven't found her already."

A few days later, Merry and Victoria signed the divorce papers. Outside the headquarters, on a lower cliff that led inwards to the hills and valleys beyond, Merry said his farewells to Victoria and his son. Merry and Victoria parted ways as friends, before Victoria left with Dexter and her child. Frodo watched in front of a crowd of onlookers as Dexter, Victoria, and Victoria's son went by carriage through the lands, never knowing what dangers, perils, or exciting adventures awaited them. Word would eventually come to Merry on Victoria and their son's fate, but not for many years.

Frodo turned to Melissa, as she waved to the parting trio. Melissa seemed concerned, yet she was willing to forgive Merry and Victoria for what happened. Frodo, however, was not convinced.

Getting Melissa's attention full on, Frodo told her, sharply, "Melissa, let me tell you something: if you do anything further to my cousin, I swear I'll…"

"You'll do what, Frodo? Send me away like you wanted to in the first place? As far as I'm concerned, Merry and Victoria were only ever friends since the beginning. And yet here we are," exclaimed Melissa.

"I don't know what you ever saw in Merry, but I know it wasn't out of mere spite," said Frodo. "Just you be careful when facing Merry. He's already suffered a loss from one marriage. I pray he doesn't suffer further."

"Maybe you don't know your cousin as well as you would like," said Melissa. She walked with the crowd back to the cave, where the entrance to the Animal Headquarters lay.

Frodo tried to get Merry to speak to him, but to no avail, for Merry walked with Pippin back to the headquarters. Frodo managed to get a conversation from Sam, but it was short. He only hoped Merry wouldn't make any further mistakes.

Chapter 21: 19: Another Way

Chapter by Aria Breuer (Aria_Breuer)

Chapter Text

Chapter Nineteen:

Another Way

Managing to escape from Angelica, Jack Sparrow rowed a boat to a coast. There he found Mr. Gibbs, who collected every ship-in-a-bottle he could find from Blackbeard's ship. As Jack and Gibbs walked along the shore, realizing that every moment was a morsel worth of adventure and excitement fit for a pirate, it was there the two were stopped by the Great Lion himself.

"Say Jack, I didn't know this shoreline had lions," said Mr. Gibbs.

"Probably just a passerby lion," said Jack, about ready to go around the lion. "He shouldn't trouble us.

Yet the Lion spoke, "Jack Sparrow, your services are needed once again."

"Can't you see there's a problem? The Black Pearl is in a bottle," said Jack, showing off the bottle with thePearltrapped sailing inside. He jumped when Jack the Monkey careened before him from a rope.

"Yes, well until you solve this dilemma meet me outside the Animal Headquarters. We will discuss more inside its halls," said the Lion.

"Aslan, I cannot see how I am any use to you. I am a pirate and am not cut out for the heroics. Isn't that a job for the heroes?" asked Jack. "I'm sorry, but I cannot help you."

"This next task is to find a crown of special importance. Seeing as you are a pirate, you cannot refuse," said Aslan.

Jack thought for a moment. "How special?"

"Oh, it is a mere excavation journey. What do you say?" asked Aslan.

"Don't give in, Jack. Remember who you are," said Mr. Gibbs.

"I know who I am, Mr. Gibbs. The question is is this new venture worth it?" asked Jack, questioning himself.

"You'll let me know when you reach the headquarters by ship. Until then, I will know you have made up your mind," said Aslan. He wandered off down the shoreline, leaving Jack with a quizzical expression.

At the Animal Headquarters…

Many months passed since Victoria's leave with Dexter. Merry sat alone in the diner on the fourth floor. As he did, Merry spotted Melissa chatting with Nash and Grayson over at the long table. Melissa noticed Merry staring at her. After a parting with her friends, Melissa joined Merry at his table.

"It's been months since Victoria left. Have you had any thoughts of marriage?" asked Melissa.

Merry looked stunned. "That's a touchy subject, Melissa."

"I'm sorry. I only meant…"

"We divorced. I had hoped you would notice," said Merry.

"And yet here we are." She paused. "It's been too long since Victoria left. Don't you ever wonder what would have happened if you had chosen me instead of her, Merry?"

"We've been over this. It was a doomed marriage, one that shouldn't have started," said Merry.

"Yes, but I had hoped you would think of me and what I had to say…"

"Melissa, now you're thinking inwards and only about yourself. Don't you care what I have to say on the matter?" asked Merry, stubborn.

"I'm sorry. Do go on," said Melissa, taking a sip from her drink.

"You could at least be respectful. I'm done talking about Victoria, if you are," said Merry.

"That's good. Now what about us?" asked Melissa. She stopped and reconsidered the question. Pausing, she eventually said, "What happened between you and Estella?"

"We became close. Estella… it's hard to say, hard to describe," said Merry.

"So, you care about her?" asked Melissa.

"I might have feelings for her." Merry went straight to the point. "Come on, Melissa. You're wondering what happened if we were married."

"I've been thinking about it," said Melissa.

Merry grunted. "You're really something, Melissa. You know that. If only you could just act pleased that I'm no longer with Victoria. After all, you did set us up. Victoria didn't want to be married to me. That's why she went after Dexter Corner."

"She did?" asked Melissa.

"And you didn't know?" asked Merry.

"Well, I've thought about it, but Merry…" Melissa watched in vain as Merry left the diner.

o-o-o

Afternoon passed into evening. Before reaching her brothers and sister's suite, Lucy was stopped by Frodo. It was obvious something was on Frodo's mind.

"What Frodo?" asked Lucy, the moment she was stopped.

Frodo hesitated. "Lucy, I need to tell you something."

Lucy nodded. "Go on."

Frodo spat out, "Look, we've been together for the past two years. In all that time… I feel like we're not supposed to be together."

"What do you mean?" asked Lucy, confused. "You're not saying…"

"Lucy, I think we should break up," said Frodo, concerned.

"I thought we were getting along fine," said Lucy.

"Yes, but that's all we've been doing is getting along. I need more from someone than just friendship, not that friendship isn't important. I know it is," said Frodo.

Lucy raised her hand. "Frodo, if you didn't want to be with me, why didn't you say so in the first place?"

"Because back then, I thought there was something. Clearly, I was wrong. We're better off as friends than as lovers. I hope you understand," said Frodo, hoping for a good response.

Lucy paused. Saddened, she said, bravely, "Yes, I can see you're right."

"I am sorry," said Frodo.

Lucy nodded, choking back some tears. She moved her hand to swipe the tears away from her face. "I am too, Frodo. I guess we weren't meant to be together. We should just be friends."

Frodo nodded. He walked away, heading to the diner. When he finally reached the diner, relief washed over him. Finding Sam and Pippin, Frodo joined them. Merry approached the group moments later, panting.

"What happened to you?" asked Frodo, the second Merry sat down.

"Melissa… she won't leave me alone," said Merry.

"Did you tell her you didn't want to see her again?" asked Pippin.

"I tried that. She just doesn't know when to give up," said Merry.

Melissa called from across the way, "Don't worry, Merry. I will find a way to get back in. I promise you that."

"You see what I mean?" asked Merry. "She's a menace."

Frodo said, "I told you she was. Look at what she did to you: she set you up for a mismatched marriage that didn't work out. What could be her excuse this time? I knew she would wreck lives."

"Maybe I should have listened to you, cousin," said Merry.

"Well, what did you expect, Mr. Merry? I knew she was trouble, too," said Sam.

Merry froze. "I don't know what to do. She won't leave me alone."

Frodo suggested, "Come with me, Sam, and Pippin. We're meeting Ronnie Buckley in his suite. He said something about having a game day, whatever that meant."

"I think Mr. Ronnie was talking about video games, Mr. Frodo," said Sam, correcting him.

"All the same, Sam," said Frodo. He turned to Merry, "Come join us. It would give you a break from Melissa, something we all need." He took a drink.

Merry stared at Melissa, who gave him a passing smile. Merry returned his gaze to his friends, sure of his answer, "All right. I'll join you. I mean, what's the worst that can happen?"

o-o-o

The next day, the four hobbits retreated to Ronnie Buckley's suite. Ronnie allowed the hobbits, due to time, to play one video game. Merry and Pippin looked at theKingdom Heartsbox in interest. Frodo, finding no other choice, agreed with Ronnie they had chosen the game. Ronnie informed the hobbits – with Sam staying out of the conversation – his version had a multiplayer part in the game, allowing for up to three to four players. This gave Sam more than enough reason to watch instead of play, as to him it didn't seem natural for grown hobbits to play video games.

As Frodo, Merry, and Pippin joined in with Ronnie's help, knocks could be heard at the door. The five hobbits ignored the noise coming from the other side and started the video game. On the select screen, there were five choices of characters to play: Sora, Riku, Donald, Goofy, and Mickey. Frodo chose Sora, Ronnie chose Riku, Pippin chose Donald, and Merry last chose Mickey. While Ronnie was familiar with the game, he somehow knew the parts with Riku and Mickey were new to the gameplay experience.

Another rap on the door could be heard. Ronnie knew the door was locked, but he remained cautious. A voice called from the other side of the door:

"Merry, I know you're in there. Open up," said the feminine voice. "It's me, Melissa. Now, I know you don't think we should be together, but I've reconsidered…"

"Melissa, go away and leave us alone!" cried Ronnie.

"If you don't open this door…"

"She'll do what?" asked Frodo, softly.

"Melissa, go away and leave us alone!" repeated Merry.

"Or you'll do what?" asked Melissa. Finding she didn't want to be around to know the answer, Melissa walked away from the door in peace.

Relieved, Merry said, "She'll come back."

But Melissa didn't come back that day. In the meantime, the five hobbits kept themselves busy with the video game. They paused the game when it was time to eat lunch and dinner. Pippin was surprised they didn't eat their usual six to seven meals, but the other hobbits rarely spoke about it. Not even Ronnie was keen on speaking about hobbit customs. When the day ended, Ronnie allowed the hobbits to stop playing the game for the night.

Before leaving, Frodo stopped at the door, informing Ronnie, "You're a good hobbit. I wished I had met you sooner."

"Don't bother yourself with me, Baggins. It'll ruin your reputation," said Ronnie.

Frodo chuckled. "My reputation's already ruined. Maybe we could do this again sometime."

Ronnie said, smugly, "I suspect there's more to this than meets the eye. Don't sour yourself on the way out."

Frodo looked last at Ronnie before taking his leave of the suite. He joined his friends down the hallway, moments before Ronnie closed the door.

Meanwhile…

The villains at the Merswold Camp made plans to move their base elsewhere. With the heroes evacuated from the Evenshire Camp and Terrabay Camp, the villains felt they had no other alternative. As Maleficent packed her bags, a beeping sound could be heard from the hologram. Turning the hologram on, Maleficent bowed before the Sith Lord that was on screen.

"My lord Sidious. What can I do for you now?" asked Maleficent.

"I am sending my apprentice, Lord Vader, to investigate two blinking lights that have come across the galaxy. I have no doubt these lights will lead straight to you," said Darth Sidious.

"I don't understand," said Maleficent.

"Apparently, we are not the only ones who know how to get to the limbo worlds," said Darth Sidious.

"Who is this Lord Vader you speak of?" asked Maleficent, curious.

"He used to go by another name, Anakin Skywalker," said Darth Sidious.

"The same Jedi who took out Darth Maul almost twenty-two years ago," said Maleficent.

"It seems time works differently in the limbo worlds," said Darth Sidious. "Make sure to give your best when Lord Vader arrives."

"Yes, Lord Sidious. I will," said Maleficent. She watched as the hologram vanished.

At the Animal Headquarters…

A week passed. Still, Melissa proved to be a pest to Merry. Nash noticed this especially when Melissa began to follow him. Frodo agreed that Melissa was just as bad as a fangirl, maybe worse. Eventually, while walking down a hallway, Merry could not stand it any longer.

"Melissa, I know you want us to be together, but you have to stop bugging me," said Merry, fed up.

"Don't you even care if we…"

"I do, but Melissa… this relentless pestering me has to stop. Don't you understand that?" asked Merry.

"Why can't we discuss…"

Merry interrupted her again. "Melissa, for your own sake and for my sanity, leave me in peace." He walked away without looking back at Melissa, who looked saddened by the news.

Quietly, Merry entered one of the larger meeting rooms, where he saw his cousins and Sam in front of a rounded wood table. As he joined them, Merry found they were discussing the best possible routes to take to reach the location of the Emerald Diadem.

Getting their attention, Merry asked, "Did I miss something?"

Frodo patted Merry on the back. "It's good to have you back."

Melena asked, moving one of the blueprints. "Why don't we just use one of these to fly our way into the mountain?"

"Flying would be dangerous, Melena," said Nash. "Besides, you don't think Luke Skywalker's X-wing is going to draw attention? Because it certainly will."

"It's a good fighter ship, Nash," said Luke. "It's gotten me out of scraps on the battlefield."

"We would do better walking to reach the place where spring meets winter." Frodo changed the subject fast, "Besides, I heard from Aslan that the Emerald Diadem has means of time travel. That could prove useful in the long run."

"Still," said Melena, studying one of the maps again, "expect the temperature to drop at nightfall." She added, "This is why it's better that I come along."

"Did someone call for us?" cried Timon from the top step.

"Timon, I didn't know there was a meeting planned," said Pumbaa.

Kovu, ecstatic, rushed up to meet Melena. As the two bonded, Kiara, Simba, and Nala entered the meeting room. Timon and Pumbaa followed in suit.

"How long has it been since we last saw you?" asked Melena.

"It's been too long, Melena. You didn't tell us you were here," said Kovu.

"This is my home now, not that I don't mind the Pridelands," said Melena.

Frodo watched the group for a moment. Then he turned to the red mane lion, "Hullo Simba."

"Frodo, I've been meaning to thank you for helping to get Kovu out of the Merswold Camp," said Simba. "You're a good… human."

Frodo nodded. "As are you a good lion king." He turned now to Kovu, "Kovu, why are you here?"

"I heard word from Aslan about an excavation group. I thought I would check it out," said Kovu.

Melena explained, "Well, we aren't ready to leave yet. There's still other plans to sort out, affairs to get in order, villains to watch out for, and then we have to…"

Kovu intervened. "Yes, you have a lot of work to do before you set out. Is there anything I might do to help?"

"Oh sure…" Melena showed Kovu the blueprints and map of their destination.

Frodo left his cousins and Sam alone. Approaching Luke, Frodo admitted, "Well, the excavation team is finally starting to take shape."

"No word from Anakin Skywalker?" said Luke.

"No, but the name reminds me of you. I don't know why," said Frodo.

"Then let's leave it there," said Luke.

Frodo paused. He then asked, "Why did you decide to join the group?"

"It sounds like an adventure, something I've been hoping to do for a long time now," said Luke.

Frodo nodded. "And you have no qualms…"

"None. I'm actually excited about this venture. I'll be with you every step of the way. If you need my protection, you've got it."

Frodo laughed. "Now you sound like the first Fellowship that travelled with me at my home land."

"Good group?" asked Luke.

Frodo nodded once again. "Certainly. They cared more about my safety as I did theirs."

"I hope this group gets started quickly. I need to return to my galaxy, see how Han Solo and Leia Organa are doing. There's a rebellion happening at home," exclaimed Luke.

"I take it this Han and Leia are your friends," said Frodo.

"They are. I wouldn't be standing here if it weren't for them," said Luke.

Frodo fell silent, as did Luke. The two watched for a moment, before Frodo regrouped with the others, as those present determined how they were going to reach the location of the Emerald Diadem and find a way to reach the crown itself. They hoped it wouldn't be too perilous a venture, but they couldn't tell for sure.

Chapter 22: 20: Prophesized

Chapter by Aria Breuer (Aria_Breuer)

Chapter Text

Chapter Twenty:

Prophesized

In the weeks that passed, Merry noticed a change in Melissa. She not only avoided him, but did her best to not speak to him at all. He wondered whether it was out of respect. Still, he found it odd the way she did this. Then one day, while walking down the halls of the Animal Headquarters, Merry caught sight of Melissa. The second Melissa saw Merry, she darted off. Merry called to her, managing to get her to stop long enough to catch up to her.

"Why are you running from me?" asked Merry.

"I'm trying not to see you," said Melissa.

"Well, I was doing the same thing," said Merry.

"Seems we have a problem," said Melissa.

"Yes, we do," said Merry.

In one moment, Merry and Melissa kissed full on the lips. Just as Frodo walked down the hall, he stopped upon seeing Merry and Melissa kissing passionately. He stood stunned at the sight, moments before moving away from the scene. While walking down the hallway, Frodo was caught off-guard by Sam, who grabbed his arm.

"Hey, what happened Mr. Frodo?" asked Sam, concerned.

Frodo sighed. "I don't think Merry is leaving Melissa's side anytime soon."

"Is there anything we can do to help Merry…"

Frodo shook his head. "No, it'll only dissuade Merry further. Last time I tried to separate him from Melissa, it didn't turn out so well. I just hope Merry learns from his last mistake."

"And if he doesn't? I've never seen a hobbit marry more than one lass," said Sam.

"Neither have I. I know one thing: I won't do the same as Merry. I'll find the right lass and marry her, and only her. That's what feels right," said Frodo.

"I'm considering doing the same, as is Pippin," said Sam. "How will you know when you've found her, the right lass?"

"You already know how, Sam, since you can't seem to stop talking about Rosie," said Frodo, grinning.

"Mr. Frodo," said Sam, blushing.

"Somehow, I'll know. I might have a gut feeling, telling me I've found her. It's hard to say," said Frodo. He joined Sam as they entered a suite occupied by a white cat.

The months passed. Aslan's search to find all the heroes needed for the excavation continued. During that time, Merry courted Melissa until the moment when they agreed to wed. Frodo was in shock, yet he did his best not to stop Merry from the happiness he deserved. After the wedding, and during the reception, Frodo was pulled into dancing with the fangirls once again. As he did, Frodo glanced at Merry and Melissa. The moment he locked eyes with Melissa and Merry, vivid images passed across his sight:

The girl from his dreams, Maia, appeared in a red-robed dress… a baby girl was born… Frodo saw himself holding the newborn child… the girl was six years old and enjoying life. She had curly brown hair and hazel blue-green eyes… the girl was eighteen and was kissing a hobbit Frodo could not see, but thought for a moment it was him… the girl, now a young hobbit woman readied herself inside a wardrobe…

The hobbit woman told Frodo, "Find me."

The last image he saw was him being captured and tortured by villains. A scarred lion named Tack helped him escape…

Frodo collapsed on the floor the moment the images stopped. He looked around, awestruck and stunned. The vision he saw looked so real and seemed in the near future. He could hardly believe it. Merry, Melissa, and others rushed over to Frodo's side, wondering if he was all right. Frodo looked briefly at Melissa before heading out of the hall. As he reached the stairs, Frodo was stopped by Merry, who managed to catch up to him.

"Frodo, you don't have to leave the reception. What's wrong, cousin?" asked Merry.

"I should get some sleep," said Frodo.

"Sam told me you have a gift of foresight. What did you see?" asked Merry.

Frodo paused. "I saw you're going to have a daughter, and that I might have feelings for her when she grows up."

"So, you might care for her," said Merry.

"I knew you wouldn't understand," said Frodo, backing away.

"Cousin, if that is what must happen, then let it happen. I'm sure I would be honoured no matter what," said Merry.

"I hope so," said Frodo. "I hope you're right. I know Melissa was right. We should have listened to her from the beginning."

"It hasn't happened yet, cousin," said Merry. "When it does, I'll set Melissa straight."

"Thank you, Merry. I hope you have better luck this time," said Frodo.

Merry was about to say, 'I'm still thinking about Estella', but he let the thought pass. He and Frodo parted ways that night on good terms. When Frodo returned to his suite, he set his keys down on the desk in his bedroom. Climbing into bed, Frodo fell asleep and dreamt a vivid dream:

A full-grown black bear could be seen wandering across the plains. Frodo watched the bear as it attacked Maia. Feeling defensive, Frodo grabbed his sword and charged towards the bear. Before the bear nabbed him, Frodo dived underneath the bear. When he came around to the other side, Frodo fought the bear until it was down. Maia stepped off the cart she was caught on, with Frodo assisting her.

"Thank you," said Maia, once she was back on the ground, "for saving my life."

"It was nothing," said Frodo in return. "Come. Let me help you. I'm sure your parents must be missing you."

"Couldn't we go for a walk… or something?" asked Maia, hesitant.

Frodo nodded. "We could, anytime you'd like."

"I should be heading back," said Maia, as the darkness engulfed Frodo.

"I know," mumbled Frodo as he came out of the dream.

Frodo opened his eyes, but instead of seeing plains, all he saw was the bedroom of his suite. His heart was beating inside his chest. Finding no means to sleep, Frodo lit a candle and grabbed a book to read. He couldn't stop thinking about the dream. One thing was clear: the girl named Maia would be coming soon.

"Any day now," Frodo reminded himself. "She'll be here." He read a few pages from his book before dousing the light and returning to bed.

Two Years Later…

Merry could hear Melissa's screams clear into the parlor. He had waited until sundown for their baby to arrive. Surely he could wait a little longer. Merry looked up as the suite's front door opened to reveal his cousin Frodo. Frodo sat down on the couch, adjacent to where Merry sat in the chair.

"How is she?" asked Frodo, growing concerned.

Merry paused as another scream came from the bedroom. "I don't think Melissa had children in mind when she married me."

Frodo gave a silent chuckle. "I'm not surprised."

One of the woman stepped out of the bedroom, closing the door after her. She grabbed some towels. Once the woman returned to the bedroom, Frodo decided to tell Merry:

"Merry, I thought you were in love with Melissa," said Frodo.

"We are, cousin. Of course, there are times when Melissa can be…"

"A pain," said Frodo, finishing his sentence.

"I've been married to her for two years. I know by now what her temperaments like. I'm surprised she chose me instead of Nash," said Merry. "Have you heard anything from him?"

"Not that I'm aware of," said Frodo.

Melissa's screaming stopped, yet a new scream was heard. When the doors were opened, Merry entered the bedroom first. Frodo followed; hoping he wasn't a nuisance, Frodo readied himself to leave. Pippin entered the room and approached the happy couple. Remembering he was a relation, Frodo walked into the bedroom. Melissa glanced up at Frodo as he approached the bed.

The midwife told Melissa and Merry, "It's a girl." Wrapping the newborn in a blanket, the midwife passed the child to Melissa.

Melissa's eyes flickered many times. When they stopped, Merry looked cautious. "Melissa, what did you see?"

Melissa glanced at Merry. "Just images I saw of our daughter. She'll be beautiful, yet kind. I think she'll have a bit of me in her, the part that's a pest. She'll be like you as well. She'll be unique in a lot of ways."

Frodo asked, politely, "Can I hold her?"

Wary, Melissa passed the baby to Merry. Merry told his cousin, "Then I get to hold her." He passed the newborn to Frodo.

As Frodo cradled the baby, he asked Merry and Melissa, "Have you thought of a name for her yet?"

Melissa looked at Merry. "We were shuffling around with the names. I've decided to call her Malinda Maura. The 'Maura' name being taken off from your name, Frodo."

"Sounds all right with me," said Frodo.

Merry was stunned when he saw his baby had stopped crying. "I think she likes you, Frodo."

"Well, she was screaming in my hands," said Melissa.

Frodo told the baby, "Malinda. I'd prefer to call you Maia."

The baby giggled in delight. Frodo passed the baby onto Merry, who cradled her in his arms. Frodo looked sad, as if he didn't get a full chance to hold the baby. Letting the moment pass, Frodo led Pippin out of the bedroom. When the two were alone, Frodo spoke with Pippin:

"Now that Melissa has a child, she can't come with us to find the Emerald Diadem," said Frodo.

"Do you really think that such a crown exists?" asked Pippin.

"It's hard to say," said Frodo. "If Aslan believes it out there, then it must be true."

"You're going on faith a lot, cousin," said Pippin.

"Just as I did Melissa's daughter and here she is," said Frodo.

"You don't even know if Melissa's daughter will fancy you, cousin," said Pippin.

"Well…"

Sam entered the suite, panting. "Did I miss it? Where's Merry?"

"He's in there," said Pippin, pointing to the bedroom.

"Thank you," said Sam, charging into the bedroom, where he was greeted by Merry and Melissa.

o-o-o

News of Melissa's newborn daughter spread through the headquarters like wildfire. Many animals wondered if Melissa would be capable to do the excavation. Aslan was especially troubled. Melena came to one of the meeting rooms to check up on him.

"Aslan," said Melena. "Melissa and Merry's child is born."

"Yes, I know," said Aslan.

"I guess that means Melissa may not be able to leave the headquarters," said Melena.

"No one can know the future, Melena," said Aslan.

"Well then, who would be left to take care of their daughter, when the time comes to set out?" asked Melena, referring 'they' as Merry and Melissa.

"Why you can, or else another hobbit in the headquarters. If Melissa is willing to travel, then she will likely join the group," said Aslan. "The main point for now is that Melissa's daughter is born. How long Merry and Melissa will stay together remains in question."

"What if they don't break off their marriage? Then what would you say?" asked Melena. "I'm sure Merry wouldn't try that again."

"If only that were so," said Aslan. He changed the subject, "For now, let's focus on finding the heroes needed to travel to the site where the Emerald Diadem is kept."

"Do you really think such a thing is out there?" asked Melena.

"Yes," said Aslan, sure of his answer.

Melena had her doubts.

Meanwhile…

Word of Merry and Melissa's newborn daughter reached the ears of the villains. When the scouts reported the latest news, some villains grew nervous. Most villains had heard of the prophecy about a girl helping Frodo end all evil. They wondered if this was the child they'd been hearing. One of the scouts reached Maleficent's castle at the Forbidden Mountain. By the time she heard the news, Maleficent sent green spells at her goon scout and the rest of the goons. Alone, Maleficent called her raven. The raven Diablo perched on her arm.

"My pet, you must search for the Animal Headquarters. Learn about this newborn child and bring back information to me. Now go," said Maleficent, watching the raven fly out of her castle.

After a long flight, Diablo found the headquarters hidden by a cliff. He perched on one of the open windows, overhearing a conversation between Melissa and Merry. It seemed obvious the two were fighting. Eventually, Diablo overheard Melissa's cries on her child being the girl in the prophecy, but Merry had his doubts. Diablo flew away with the information. Returning to the Forbidden Mountain, Diablo cooed the news to Maleficent. Maleficent looked pleased.

"You did well, my pet. Rest now. You did well," said Maleficent. She cackled as she left her throne.

Chapter 23: 21: Regrouped

Chapter by Aria Breuer (Aria_Breuer)

Chapter Text

Chapter Twenty-One:

Regrouped

Within a few weeks, Aslan's search for the heroes ended. Frodo was greeted by Harry Potter and his friends, who had returned to the headquarters after time became unfrozen in their world. Frodo invited Harry and his friends to the diner, where they had a long conversation. After ordering their food and drinks, Hermione decided to speak out.

"I heard that Merry was wed twice. I hope there isn't something wrong with him," said Hermione.

"Merry's business is his own. I would respect that," said Frodo.

"I'm sorry. I didn't mean…"

"No, you're fine," said Frodo, taking a sip from his drink. He changed the subject, "Why did you three come back?"

"I thought you heard, mate," said Ron.

Harry paused. "We heard from Aslan about an excavation group. We thought about joining in."

"Unless Aslan informed me otherwise, I don't know if we're heading out," said Frodo.

"He said it was urgent," said Hermione.

"Well, it's been all talk for the past several years now," said Frodo.

Aslan approached the diner, telling the heroes. "It's time. Meet me in the meeting room in two hours." He walked away, back down the hall."

"Now I'm willing to believe you," said Frodo, taking another drink.

Two hours later, the heroes that were welcomed to the excavation group met in one of the larger meeting rooms. Once the last hero was in the room, the doors were closed. Frodo assumed the meeting was going to be private. Looking around, Frodo noticed all four Pevensies had come to the meeting, as did Harry, Ron, and Hermione. Kovu was also present with Kiara, Simba, and Nala. Mumble and Gurgi were nowhere to be seen, right up until the meeting started, where they entered from a tunnel above. Mumble had brought the Amigos with him. Gurgi was alone once again. Melena was present as well. Of the remaining first Fellowship members, they were all present. Nash was present and so was Melissa, who had brought her baby girl Malinda Maura with her, since she could not part with the child for even a second. Luke Skywalker also showed up at the meeting, yet he looked as if he was ready to leave the headquarters. Of the second Fellowship, Frodo noticed Jack Sparrow wasn't present.

Raising concern, Frodo asked, "Aslan, where is Jack Sparrow?"

"He will appear when the time is right," said Aslan, speaking more in a riddle. He spoke aloud to the assembly, "I know it must be shocking to have two Fellowships together, but due to the success of both missions, this excavation group requires both Fellowships work together, if we are to have any success finding the Emerald Diadem. Melena has agreed, as well as Luke Skywalker, to guide both Fellowships to the location of the crown."

Melissa interrupted, "Excuse me, but which one is going to be the leader of this group?"

Nash said, "Melissa, surely they can't decide whose going to be the leader. That's up to them."

Merry asked, "Melissa, you aren't planning on coming along, are you? We have a child now."

"I will if Nash comes with us," said Melissa.

"But you're married now, Melissa. I shouldn't interfere in that," said Nash.

Harry asked Aslan, "Where is the place that we're going?"

"It's a place where spring meets winter. A rather unusual place, I should add," said Melena.

"And there'll be no sign of enemies?" asked Legolas.

"On the contrary, the villains are still out there. If they reach the Emerald Diadem first, it could spell certain doom for us all," said Aslan.

"What can we do?" asked Harry, concerned.

"Find the Emerald Diadem first. The villains may already be on the move. I suggest you start early tomorrow morning," said Aslan.

"That doesn't give us much time," said Edmund.

"Good luck. For the second Fellowship, the items you were given at the Evenshire Camp will prove useful. Luke, may I have a word with you," said Aslan.

Frodo watched as Aslan presented a wooden staff. He overheard the two talking about Luke's father and how he wanted Luke to have the gift. Frodo suspected the short wooden staff was the same one Anakin kept hidden, but he didn't say anything. When the meeting was finished, Frodo prepared to leave the meeting room. As he stood up, Frodo noticed Aragorn and Gandalf approach.

"Yes?" asked Frodo, confused.

"Frodo, I cannot come with you. I have business back at Gondor that needs attending to. I am, after all, the new king," said Aragorn.

Frodo nodded. "I know. Good luck to you."

As Aragorn walked away, Gandalf stayed with Frodo. "How are you, Frodo?"

"Same as always, but it seems Melissa can't keep her hands off her daughter," said Frodo.

"You care for her, Melissa's daughter?" asked Gandalf.

"In a strange way, I do care for her," said Frodo. "Are you coming with us, or not?"

"This is not my task. My work is finished and so others must take my place. Legolas and Gimli seem willing to serve in another adventure," said Gandalf.

"My hobbit friends are less eager," said Frodo.

"I wouldn't find that true," said Gandalf. "How are you, Frodo, really?"

"I… don't know. I was successful on my last quest. The limbo world is helping me fight off the pain, whatever is left of it. Now all that's left are dark memories," said Frodo.

"It will take years to heal those wounds, if they can be healed," said Gandalf.

"I know I should perform this task, but I don't know if I can. My quests have left a great pain on me, one that seems unwilling to go away…"

"Frodo, you are a brave hobbit. You can fight off this evil," said Gandalf.

"It's not that simple," said Frodo.

"Find it inside yourself. I promised you, before we left the Shire, that you may find healing elsewhere. So far, that has stayed true. The healers did their work," said Gandalf.

"If only I could know for sure," said Frodo.

"Does your heart pain you?" asked Gandalf.

"Not as much as it used to. Even my shoulder doesn't hurt as much," said Frodo.

"Then take care. I must return now to Middle-earth," said Gandalf.

"Goodbye Gandalf," said Frodo. "I hope we meet again."

"We will, before the day is done," said Gandalf, leaving the meeting room.

Due to finding the villains attempting to invade the headquarters, Aslan postponed the excavation for another year. Frodo had a series of vivid dreams on and off during that year. Malinda Maura Brandybuck grew up hearing her father Merry tell stories of his adventures. He noticed how quickly Malinda latched onto the stories, even books themselves. By the second year, Aslan finally readied the heroes for their journey to find the Emerald Diadem. Melissa, by that time, felt ready to travel again, as did Nash. In spite of constantly denying the offer, Ronnie eventually agreed to take care of Malinda while Melissa and Merry were away.

On the final day before the excavation, Frodo heard rumor that theBlack Pearlwas finally setting sail. He continued readingTreasure Islandsoon after hearing the news. At the diner, Melissa noticed the book Frodo read, before she searched for her friends. Sam, Merry, and Pippin joined Frodo at his table.

"I heard that was a good book," said Pippin.

"It is," said Frodo. "At least it relates to what we're about to undertake." He asked Merry, "Why aren't you with Melissa?"

"Oh, Melissa's more interested in talking with Nash than with me. Maybe it was wise that I didn't marry her," said Merry.

"You didn't know what you were getting yourself into," said Frodo.

"Maybe it was an unwise move," said Merry.

"We might never know," said Frodo. "Tomorrow the excavation starts."

"We don't have to go, do we?" asked Sam. "Rosie's waiting for us at home."

"Yes, I know," said Frodo, taking a sip from his drink.

"So is Estella and Diamond," said Pippin.

"Right, Estella," said Merry, slightly daydreaming. "I should have married her, before this whole mess began."

"You couldn't control what happened, Merry," said Frodo.

"Hm. You may be right, cousin," said Merry.

"Did Aslan tell us where he was meeting?" asked Sam, getting back on topic.

"I think we're supposed to head to the docks. I'm not sure why," said Frodo.

"I guess we'll find out," said Pippin.

Frodo had a rough night's sleep. The dream he had that morning proved confusing, but it also showed him again the girl from his dreams, Maia. When he got out of bed that morning, Frodo thought about visiting Melissa and Merry, but mainly to see their daughter Malinda, or as he nicknamed her Maia. He felt certain she was the same girl from his dreams.

After leaving his suite, Frodo made his way down to the fourth floor. He was greeted by heroes as he traveled down the hallways and stairways. He found the diner in no time. Inside, Merry and Melissa were present with their child. Frodo approached the couple with glee. Melissa was the first to notice him.

"Well Baggins, I thought you'd be at the docks by now," said Melissa.

"I was just checking up on you two," said Frodo. "How's Malinda doing?"

"She's chipper, as always," said Merry, holding the one-year-old child.

"Can I hold her?" asked Frodo.

Melissa intervened. "Frodo, I think we need to talk." She managed to convince Merry, before pushing Frodo out of the diner. Once she and Frodo were alone, Melissa told him, "I know what you're thinking. It seems all you want to do is look and hold my child, as I told you would happen. As usual, no one listens to what I have to say."

"I understand you were telling the truth, but it's unfair that you should keep Malinda to yourself," said Frodo.

"Frodo, she's my daughter. At least show some respect," said Melissa.

"Respect? Melissa, I think you're watching her too closely," said Frodo. "About the venture…"

"I'm still going. Besides, I'm passing my daughter to Ronnie for care. I hope that's all right with you," said Melissa, shrewdly. Giving Frodo a smug look, Melissa returned to the diner.

o-o-o

Once Melissa gave Ronnie the child and all the essentials he needed to take care of her, she regrouped with Merry, Frodo, Sam, and Pippin. Sam gave Rosie one last look before seeing her leave by silver portal out of the headquarters.

Arriving at the cavern docks, the five hobbits waited until Nash showed up, followed by the four Pevensies. They told them that Harry, Ron, Hermione, and the others would meet up with them along the way. The group found three longboats and climbed into them. The shuttered door opened, allowing them passage to open sea. Peter, Nash, and the hobbits rowed until they were clear away from the door, which closed up after the last boat left the cavernous dock. Their wait only lasted minutes, as coming out from a silvery portal was the pirates' ship,The Black Pearl. Jack, of course, noticed the two Pevensie sisters enter the ship, but unlike the last time he didn't say anything about it that time.

Jack called, "Aye, where is our destination?"

Frodo answered, "Well, if there is a port up ahead, you might as well be sailing to it."

"We're sailing without a destination again. I'll be," said Mr. Gibbs.

Jack asked Frodo, "You mean you don't know where you're headed?"

"Our guides aren't with us," said Frodo, admitting. He added, "Nice to see you again, Jack."

"A pleasure it is, indeed, mate," said Jack.

Edmund said, "Frodo's right. We need to find a port. Fortunately, there's one upriver." He laid out a map on a wooden table. "It's here."

"You've done some sailing, have you?" asked Jack.

"It's not the first time we've been out at sea," said Peter.

"It is for us," admitted Sam, throwing up out over the railing.

"I've done boating in my time. I'm used to the water," said Merry, patting Sam's back.

"It ain't natural," said Sam, feeling queasy.

"How long until we set sail?" asked Pippin, curious.

"Pippin," said Melissa, groaning.

"I'd say soon, but that's my opinion," said Nash, casually.

Jack then ordered his crew to get back to work. He then told Mr. Cotton to sail in the direction they wanted to sail. Lucy spoke quickly to her sister about all that was happening.

"Do you think we'll find this crown, the Emerald Diadem?" asked Lucy.

"With any luck, we might. Although, I wouldn't tell that to Captain Jack Sparrow," said Susan.

"Deal," said Lucy, understanding the reason.

Frodo paid no mind to Jack Sparrow as he conversed with his crew. Instead, his gaze stayed on the open ocean. He wondered if baby Malinda was all right and well taken care of. He also wondered if he would ever return home. His wounds pained him from time to time, but they weren't as bad as they had been in the past. His only question remained was would be willing to sail to the West when he returned home, or choose to spend his days in the Shire. It was very difficult to question at that point in time for him.

Chapter 24: 22: The Shoal Docks

Chapter by Aria Breuer (Aria_Breuer)

Chapter Text

Chapter Twenty-Two:

The Shoal Docks

By late afternoon, theBlack Pearlarrived at the nearest port. The name given on a signpost read:Welcome to the Shoal Docks. Jack stopped the ship at the nearest dock. As the heroes walked down the ramp, Jack and his crew tied off the ship. Frodo was surprised when he saw Jack leaving his own ship.

Jack stopped and clamped a hand on Frodo's shoulder. "Son, I'm coming with you."

"We're searching for a crown this time, Jack. It won't be like last time," said Frodo.

"Good. All the more reason," said Jack, heading straight for the nearest tavern.

Not waiting for his friends, Frodo explored the port town. He spotted Kovu and Melena gathering the food and supplies. Kiara and Simba were with them, too. In another area, Frodo saw Gurgi with Mumble; both were looking at a notice board. Mumble's son, Frodo thought, must have been tagging along. Harry, Ron, and Hermione were gathering more supplies and food. The Pevensies joined in, moving past Frodo towards the two wizards and witch. Luke Skywalker was nowhere to be found, other than the red-and-white ship that flown past the town.

As Frodo searched for his hobbit friends, he came across a tavern called theWhite Perch. Stepping inside the tavern, Frodo found the entrance hall packed with people and animals alike. After a brief walk around, Frodo found Sam, Merry, and Pippin sitting at the same table as Melissa and Nash. Frodo joined the group, where he too ordered some food and drink. Melissa decided to start the conversation.

"So, word is we'll be leaving tomorrow morning for the mountains. The Emerald Diadem is supposed to be there…"

Nash shushed her. "Melissa, keep quiet! We don't want anyone finding out where we're going. Someone could be eavesdropping."

"You're one to talk," said Melissa. "Remember when we made that bargain with Daedra about who would get their chance to meet the Ring-bearer and see the One Ring for ourselves."

"Daedra? That Dalmatian would have rather traded the One Ring for something huge." Nash looked around, "I do hope she isn't here now."

"Someone talking about me?" asked the same Dalmatian from the Animal Headquarters. She sat down on a chair all too eager.

Frodo said, appalled, "You weren't seriously having this conversation?"

Melissa turned to the Dalmatian. "Tell them what you told me and Nash."

"Here we go," said Nash, taking a sip from his drink.

"Just what is she doing here?" asked Frodo, noticing he was being ignored.

"Well, I would rather trade the One Ring for something practical, like an improved dog bed," said Daedra. "My sister Fern will agree with me."

"An improved dog bed to do what, Daedra?" asked Nash.

"Come on, Nash. All the famous dogs have a recliner dog bed. You can't expect every world not knowing about them. The dog bed would do all sorts of neat tricks," said Daedra.

Getting their attention, Frodo inquired, "The One Ring is gone, destroyed. We're not trading any magic ring for a dog bed, no matter how improved it is."

"I can get my sister now, if you'd like," said Daedra. She managed to halt the conversation as she brought up a hologram of her Dalmatian sister. "Fern, if you will."

Fern spoke from the hologram. "My sister is willing to trade the Ring for five recliner dog beds."

"No," said Frodo, already fed up.

"Okay, just one recliner dog bed," said Fern, attempting to bargain. "Come on. You can't pass it up."

"Forget it," said Frodo.

Fern spoke to Daedra, "Sorry sister, we had them."

"No?" asked Daedra, confused. "Come on, Fern. You don't need to listen to Frodo Baggins. We can get that recliner dog bed if we find a magic ring."

"Yes, we could, but Frodo is the only known Ring-bearer we can find within a hundred miles who had a Ring of Power. Sorry sister, we lost this one," said Fern. "Talk to our parents. They miss you."

Daedra turned off the hologram. Seeing the conversation was headed nowhere, Daedra left the table. Melissa noticed Frodo's glare was aimed at her.

"What?" asked Melissa. "It was an investment."

"How dare you? An investment, please," said Frodo, appalled. He took a drink in silence.

Merry changed the subject. "Well, aside from that unusual offer, how are we going to find this place where spring meets winter? It could be anywhere, right?"

Melissa spoke, "Yes, but we'll have to talk with Melena. She seemed to know the way."

"What about Luke Skywalker?" asked Frodo.

"I'm not sure. He's probably heading there now, but he'll have a long wait for us to catch up to him," explained Melissa.

"Sir, what if we do happen to find this Emerald Diadem?" asked Sam, turning to Frodo.

"It should be an interesting find," admitted Pippin.

"We'll wait until morning, I guess," said Melissa, taking a drink.

After finishing his meal, Frodo asked the innkeeper about any available rooms. He got lucky when the innkeeper told him there were five rooms still available. Once he was handed a silver key, Frodo traveled upstairs. He found his room was the last one, by the window. As he fitted the key into the lock, Frodo found that Sam, Merry, and Pippin were also staying in different rooms down the hallway. Melissa, of course, tagged alongside Merry, as Frodo guessed she had the same room as his cousin.

When the key worked, Frodo opened the door to his room. Inside, the room was filled with seashells. There were seashells embedded to the walls, both large and small, and set on the dresser. Even the bathroom had seashells. For a moment, Frodo thought he was in the wrong room until he saw the key in his hand. Finding he needed to accept where he was, Frodo closed the door and locked it. As he climbed into bed, sleep overcame him. He encountered another strange dream that night:

Frodo stood on a rocky shore. The waves crashed against the rocks with such ferocity. The sky was gloomy with an overcast of dark grey clouds. He called for someone, anyone, to come and rescue him. No one came to his aide. He could see a ship, sailing with a black flag and a pirate's insignia on both sides. Although he wondered about the ship and its crew, Frodo became wary.

No sooner had he been saved by the pirates, he ended up inside the longboat. Climbing aboard the ship, Frodo was pleased to see Jack Sparrow. However, Jack's expression showed greed and mistrust. Before he could say anything, Frodo was brought down to the crew's quarters. There, he was whipped several times. The darkness took him as the whip continued its thrashing.

Frodo awoke with his back aching. Confused, Frodo felt his back, noticing small lines here and there. Wondering if it was just a dream, Frodo felt sleep coming over him again. A few minutes passed before he fell back into a deep sleep. The dream he had next was seemingly pleasant.

Meanwhile…

Lara-Belle looked out at the plains beyond the villains' new campsite. The purple storm clouds moved in across the land. Katrina joined her sister, unsure what to make of the situation.

"Something's brewing out on the plains. Do you think Maleficent knows?" asked Katrina.

"We don't need to alarm her." Lara-Belle cackled. "The heroes won't know how to find the mountains, not with the storm that's brewing."

"Do you think they'll get lucky and find out where it is?" asked Katrina.

Lara-Belle answered, "Don't get your hopes up. The heroes aren't that smart to find the place where the Emerald Diadem is hidden. Besides, with luck we villains will get there first."

"Do you know the way?" asked Katrina.

Lara-Belle said, "Me? No. But we'll catch up to them soon enough." She then said, "Come on. Let's head back inside."

Katrina added, "It would be shocking if Frodo found the Emerald Diadem…"

"Don't give them heroes' encouragement, Katrina! You agreed to be a villain in the first place," said Lara-Belle.

"Maybe you should take the name scar-re, but instead of 're' why not 'ra'?" said Katrina.

"If you think I'm going to call myself by that ridiculous name, you're wrong," said Lara-Belle. "Although, I do mind the ra part better than re."

"So, you'll call yourself Scar-ra and be done with it," said Katrina.

Lara-Belle glared back at her sister. "Katrina, just because you're a villain, doesn't mean you have to start changing people and creatures' names."

"I was only trying to help," said Katrina. She followed her sister back inside one of the tents.

At the Shoal Docks…

Frodo awoke early the next morning. Unable to find sleep, Frodo got out of bed. He dressed in the same vest, jacket, and cloak he already brought with him. He left the room, taking the silver key with him. Downstairs, Frodo saw a gathering of heroes in the entrance hall. Finding the innkeeper, Frodo returned the key. As he looked about the hall, Frodo witnessed Kovu saying his farewells to Kiara and Simba, who were meeting with Nala close to the plains. While Kovu watched his family leave the tavern, Frodo approached Melena, who was in a good mood.

"Did you find Legolas and Gimli?" asked Melena, curious.

"Did you see them? I just got here," said Frodo.

"There they are," said Melena. "I'll meet you outside."

As Melena left Frodo, Legolas and Gimli approached the hobbit.

"Frodo, Gimli and I were planning on going to the mountains early. One of the heroes said they would take us to the caves." Legolas added, "We're returning home."

"You're not coming?" asked Frodo, saddened.

"We mean no disrespect. As much as I don't like it, I do miss Erebor," said Gimli.

"I'm sorry to hear you're both leaving," said Frodo.

Legolas said last, "Take care of yourself, Frodo. We will meet again one day."

"Same to you," said Frodo.

Frodo watched Legolas and Gimli leave the tavern. As the crowd began to disperse, Frodo searched for his friends. He found his three hobbit friends having a conversation with the companions from his second Fellowship. Frodo joined them, causing the companions to look both surprised and amazed he had shown up. Much to his surprise, Melissa and Nash were still present with the group. Luke Skywalker was once again missing, but so was Jack Sparrow.

"We're meeting Luke along the way. He said he'd track us down," said Melena, answering one of Frodo's questions.

"How do you know that?" asked Frodo.

Melena allowed Melissa to show the hologram, which had a message left by Luke Skywalker. Turning the hologram off, Melissa said, "He left this for us here. The innkeeper gave it to me."

"He only gave it to you when you asked him, and most impolitely," said Nash.

"So cousin, when do we leave for this treasure hunt – journey?" asked Merry, clamping a hand on Frodo's shoulder.

"Hopefully soon," said Melissa.

Ignoring Melissa, as Nash talked to her, Kovu asked Frodo, "It's your call, Frodo."

"We're going on another quest! Goody!" clapped Gurgi, jumping up and down.

Mumble only said, "I know. Here we go again."

Frodo paused. "Since Melena's our guide, and if we're all ready…" He heard various yeses from the others. "Then it's time to leave."

Peter asked Frodo, as they headed out of the tavern, "Are you sure Melena's guiding us to the – this Emerald Diadem?"

"Yes," said Frodo. "She says she knows the path."

As the tavern became less crowded, Creeper snuck out of his hiding place. The second he was spotted by the innkeeper, Creeper rushed out of the door. He hid in the bushes, just as Melissa heard the door slam. Seeing nothing, Melissa returned to the present, catching up to the others. Creeper, once the coast was clear, fled from his hiding spot. He followed the group out of the town, before taking a detour to a portal in the air. The portal brought him to another villains' campsite. Creeper sped towards one of the tents, where he found Maleficent and Sauron inside with a new figure wearing black robes and a black skull mask. The man breathed in and out in a deep, chilling manner.

Scared out of his wits, Creeper announced, "The heroes have left the Shoal Docks. I overheard them say they were looking for an emerald diadem." Creeper moved back a step.

The man said in a deep, hollow voice, "The heroes are onto the Emerald Diadem." Turning to Maleficent and Sauron, the man asked, "How long will it take to catch up to them?"

Sauron said, leaving the tent, "It's time to alert the Orcs."

Maleficent told the man, "Darth Vader, you are the only one among us who knew those heroes."

"Yes, but this time there are more of them. If they are going after the Emerald Diadem…"

"Then we need to catch them off the beaten track," said Maleficent.

Darth Vader raised a hand. "Now hold on. These heroes will not be so easily fooled. We need to find a way to reach the place where the Emerald Diadem is before the heroes."

"How are we to find a place where spring meets winter? Surely there must be a way," said Maleficent.

"You have good scouts, Maleficent, but you are still blind by your own visions. We need to catch them off-guard, before they find the Emerald Diadem," said Darth Vader.

"And if they do find it?" asked Maleficent.

"Then we stop them before they do anything else. I think it's time to track down these heroes," said Darth Vader.

"Very good, mi lord," said Maleficent, cackling. "I'll send word to Voldemort. He'll want to know the fate of the Boy Who Lived." She left the tent, cackling softly.

Darth Vader stared at the map of the limbo world Peradus with anticipation. He had expected to find Luke Skywalker, the boy who thwarted him and destroyed the Death Star. Was it possible he may have come to the limbo world? The Force told him he would one day confront Luke, but he wasn't sure if it would be that time soon. Darth Vader left the tent, seeing Maleficent sending a Goon scout in search of Voldemort. For all Darth Vader knew, the plans were in motion. He wondered how far the plans would hold, before he would have to alter them.

Chapter 25: 23: The Endless Plains

Chapter by Aria Breuer (Aria_Breuer)

Chapter Text

Chapter Twenty-Three:

The Endless Plains

As they walked through the port, the group spotted Jack Sparrow. He made a run towards them, ducking behind Edmund and Harry. They almost didn't ask him what he had been doing.

Jack announced anyway, "I met some guards at the tavern. They were looking for me."

"Of course they were," said Melena. "You're a pirate."

"Why were they after you?" asked Melissa, curious.

"Oh, I may have nicked someone of their gold," said Jack.

"There he is!" cried a man wearing a brown overcoat. He called to the soldiers, "Get him! He's right there!"

"I think now is the time to leave the port," said Frodo. He turned to Jack, "And you'd better give back what you stole."

"And be imprisoned for it? Why would I do that?" asked Jack.

Of course, thanks to Frodo's intervention, Jack gave back what he stole; although, the soldiers ended up locking Jack in a cell. Frodo thought he got what he deserved, but Melissa and Melena seemed convinced to help Jack. After some convincing, Nash was in on Melissa's plan. It was agreed on that evening that the companions would spring Jack from his cell. The party consisted of Edmund, Harry, Nash, Melissa, and Melena.

Later that night, when the town was asleep, the five companions waited until the guards were distracted before making their way to the prison. The prison was a stone building with barred windows. Once they broke through, Nash traveled in first after Melissa, with Edmund and Harry following, with Melena in the rear. They traversed down two hallways and a stairwell before reaching the hallway where Jack was kept. Grabbing the keys from a wall, Melissa approached Jack's cell.

"My companions, how did you find me?" asked Jack. He was shushed by the others. Melena kept watch by the stairs.

"Hurry!" cried Melena in whisper.

"How did you find me?" repeated Jack.

"We don't have time to explain. I just decided you needed help," said Melissa.

"It was Melissa's idea," said Nash.

"Yes, she's to blame for this," said Edmund.

"Pirate," said Jack, directly to Melissa.

"Can you hurry up?" asked Harry, whispering to Melissa.

Finding the right key, Melissa turned it and unlocked the cell door. Before they could leave, Jack grabbed his effects from the wall. The six companions then traveled back down the hallway, but we're spotted by guards. They turned down another few corridors before reaching a back door. Once outside, the six companions met up with the others.

"What took you so long?" asked Lucy.

"We ran into some guards," said Edmund.

"I hope we don't get in trouble, due to knowing Mr. Jack Sparrow," said Sam.

"Son, I'm Captain Jack Sparrow," said Jack.

"That doesn't mean you aren't full of trouble, sir," said Sam, unconvinced.

"Hey, are we ready to leave? Before those guards show up," said Melena.

"I'm ready, if you are," said Jack.

Frodo sighed. "Then let's leave this port."

"We didn't need to go after Jack," said Pippin.

"It was Melissa's idea and I'm guessing Melena's as well," said Merry.

"Is that supposed to be good?" asked Hermione. "It doesn't sound like it."

"Hermione," said Ron.

When the guards weren't around, the group snuck out of the port-town. They were lucky not to be caught, but they wondered if this was going to be a long excavation. Melena assured them it wasn't, or so she hoped.

The group traversed across the plains throughout the night. After leaving the river, the companions didn't know where they were. All around them was an endless track of plains, with mountains in the distance. Every time they thought they were moving closer to the mountains, the plains grew longer. Eventually, one of the companions decided to speak up.

"Are we ever going to make it to the mountains?" asked Edmund. "So far, the answer is no, isn't it Melena?"

"I know where I'm going," said Melena. "I hope."

"Does anyone else know where we're supposed to be? Luke's waiting for us," said Melissa.

"Very wise decision, Melissa," said Nash.

"Shouldn't there be some indication that tells us we're on the right track?" asked Peter.

"Peter, even if we could find the way, who knows what awaits us," said Susan.

"Maybe we should let someone else lead," said Lucy.

"I know I'm not lost. There should be portals around here somewhere," said Melena.

Harry turned to Melena and said, "Look, if we don't find what you're looking for, I think we should split up."

"No!" cried Kovu and Mumble together.

"Gurgi doesn't want to end up lost," said Gurgi.

"Gurgi has a point," said Melena. "We should stay together."

"Maybe its better that we split up," said Frodo, telling Sam, Merry, and Pippin.

"Frodo, no," said Melena, protesting.

"Look, we obviously can't find the way together. Maybe if we're lucky, we'll cover more ground," said Frodo. He added, "Harry's right, Melena. What choice have we?"

"Sticking together," said Melena.

Frodo pointed towards the west, "We're going this way." He walked away with Sam, Merry, and Pippin following.

Melissa said, bravely, "Me and Nash are heading this way."

"Oh no," said Melena, stopping Melissa and Nash in their tracks.

"Well, we're going this way," said Harry, taking Ron and Hermione northwest.

The Pevensies traveled northeast. Kovu took Gurgi and Mumble east. Melissa looked at Melena with a peeved look across her face, before following the lioness north. Jack asked to join any of the small groups, but was soon forced to follow a path. He chose the northwest, but banked westwards. Nash followed after Melissa, charging to catch up to her and Melena.

Together Melena led Melissa and Nash northwards. For a long time, all they saw were plains and the occasional tree. So far, there hadn't been any sign of anyone or anything. Frustrated, Melissa asked in a loud, booming voice:

"When do we get there?" asked Melissa.

Nash shushed her. "Melissa, keep quiet."

"But we're getting nowhere going north. Maybe we should have followed one of the others, or at least know where they are," said Melissa. Finding a log, Melissa said as she sat down, "I'm taking a break."

Melena returned to the two hobbits. "We can't stop now. We have to find the portals. I know they're here. We just have to find them."

"How? There's nothing but plains," said Melissa.

"Makes you wish Frodo had stayed, doesn't it?" asked Nash.

"Knowing Frodo, he's probably already lost the way," said Melissa. She cried, "Isn't there someone who knows how to get to the portals? These endless plains aren't doing us any favors." A croaking sound could be heard from the log. "It croaked." She screamed upon seeing a green spotted toad.

"Melissa, relax," said Nash, holding Melissa back.

"Thank you, kind sir. I was hoping to return home, but I seem to have lost my way. Maybe you can help a prince," said the frog.

"Who are you?" asked Melena.

"Why, I am Prince Naveen and you are a delicate rose," said the frog, flattering Melena. He noticed Melena blush.

"All right. Save your flattering. Do you know where the portals are?" asked Melissa.

Naveen thought for a few minutes. Then an idea struck. "I do remember entering these plains from a portal. Although, I do need to reach water." He turned to Melena, "I can lead you to the portals that I saw earlier. I think I remember where they are from here."

"Finally," said Melissa.

Naveen hopped off the log. "Come on. It's this way." He charged off.

Melena told Nash and Melissa, "Hop on."

"We're not getting on you," said Melissa.

"Come on, Melissa," said Nash, pulling her on the back of Melena.

In one roar, Melena charged after the frog. At times, Naveen had to direct them to the way, which turned out to be towards the northwest. While they were on the chase, Melissa wondered the fate of the others and if they also found the portals.

o-o-o

For some time Kovu lost the way. He continued running eastwards until Mumble told him to stop. The three were near a valley with boulder walls. As Kovu, Gurgi, and Mumble approached the valley, they could see a whole troop of lemurs. The lemurs looked as though they were having a party, with the leader – or as it appeared a king – singing. Mumble tapped his foot to the beat of the song.

"It's catchy," said Mumble.

"Yes," said Kovu, sarcastically. "These lemurs may know nothing of the portals Melena spoke of."

"Do you think they would?" asked Gurgi.

Kovu moved away from the rock. "Come on. We must be off-course."

"We could just ask the lemurs for help," suggested Mumble. "Let's go talk to them." Before Kovu could stop him, Mumble noticed the lion and the furry grey-and-white creature follow him. On the valley floor, Mumble attempted to get the lemurs attention. It didn't take the lemurs long to notice him and his friends. Mumble announced, "Excuse me. My friends and I would like to know where we can find… the portals. If you could be any assistance, then…"

"That's a big bird," squeaked a small lemur.

"Mort, he's a penguin. We've seen penguins before," said a full-grown brown lemur in a deep voice.

"Can anyone help us?" asked Mumble.

Kovu intervened, "Yes, well although we'd appreciate the help, we were just leaving."

"Nonsense. This task looks like the job for King Julien!" cried the lemur wearing a crown. "What you lads need to do is go a hundred yards from here and head northwest. You should be able to find the portals – its how we got to these plains in the first place."

"A hundred yards? Uh… thank you. We'll just leave," said Kovu. He gestured to Gurgi and Mumble to follow.

Gurgi waved, as he said to the lemurs, "Thank you kindly."

King Julien laughed. Turning to the lemur with the deep voice, Julien said, "Yes. You see Maurice, I can help poor travelers."

"They looked like an odd bunch," said Maurice.

"At least we got them moving," said Mort, excitement.

Maurice started, "Now Mort-"

"No, he's right. And that leads into my next number!" said King Julien, who began to sing "I Like to Move It". The other lemurs joined in.

As Kovu reached the top of the valley, he looked back to see the lemurs had returned to their party. He shook his head in disbelief. Once Gurgi and Mumble caught up to him, Kovu helped Mumble onto his back, as Gurgi climbed up. They resumed their search, heading west this time.

o-o-o

"Edmund, did you bring the key you found in the Silent Forest?" asked Lucy, curious.

"You mean this key, Lu?" asked Edmund, pulling out a small golden key from his satchel. "Of course I did. I had a feeling I would need it for this excavation."

Susan told Peter, who went ahead, "Peter, we should stick together."

"This has to be the way. What other way is there?" asked Peter, peeved.

"Maybe we should go back," said Susan, as they came up to a stream. "You see? We're nowhere near the place where Melena spoke-"

"Oh, shut up," said Peter, silencing his elder sister.

"At least we can fill our water bottles," said Lucy, pulling out her water skin from her satchel. As Lucy dipped the water skin into the stream, Peter said, "Well, I'm certain I'm not lost."

"Then where do you suppose we are? We can't be anywhere near the others," said Edmund.

"Come on. Let's find someone and ask for directions," said Susan.

"Ask who, Su?" asked Peter, concerned. "I don't see anyone."

Lucy looked up as an anthropomorphic brown mouse approached the stream. She said in excitement, "Reepicheep! What are you doing here?"

The mouse looked up in surprise. He bowed before them, "Your majesties."

"Hello Reep," said Edmund, grinning. "It's been a long time."

"However did you four come this way? I thought you were with that large group," said Reepicheep.

"We got separated," said Susan.

"Do you know where they might be heading?" asked Lucy, putting her water skin away.

Reepicheep cried, "If I know these heroes, they'll be looking for portals. I heard a rumor that one of those portals would lead directly to the place where the Emerald Diadem is."

"That's great. You think you could take us there?" asked Edmund.

Reepicheep said, "Oh, certainly. This way. We need to head northwest."

"That's where Harry, Ron, and Hermione were headed," said Edmund.

"Maybe we should have followed them instead," said Susan.

"Oh, come on," said Peter, leading his brother and sisters while following Reepicheep.

o-o-o

Unsure where he was going, Jack Sparrow trudged on. He talked to himself as he journeyed until eventually he stumbled across an old man sitting on a log. Jack said aloud, hoping he was near someone, anyone:

"Well, isn't this a fancy turnout. There's an old man on a log. Isn't that strange?" Jack looked around, but saw he was alone. "Oh, no one there. Oh well." He walked on towards the old man.

"Halt traveler!" said the old man. Jack saw the old man was blind. "Whoever crosses paths with me must pay a toll."

"I'm sorry, but I have no tolls to pay. I'm on a very important excavation and I cannot miss it." He was blocked by the old man's walking stick.

"Now see here, son. This here is a toll log. You must pay me a toll, if you wish to learn its secrets," said the old man.

"Oh," said Jack. Looking about him, Jack found his pink scarf. Untying the scarf from his belt, Jack handed it to the old man. "Here. Maybe it'll help keep people from noticing your blindness."

"Thank you, lad," said the old man, fitting the scarf over his eyelids. Once the scarf was tied proper, the old man pulled out from the log a small wooden box. "Here you are, lad. Use it well."

Once Jack was handed the box, he looked at it in confusion. "A box. What's inside said box?" As he opened the lid, the old man cried, "Don't open it here! The box must be opened at the right moment, when you least expect to use it."

Closing the lid, Jack said, "So, I can't open said box?"

"No, not yet. But you will have need of it soon enough," said the old man.

"Yes, well… thank you, I think," said Jack, walking on ahead. He hardly heard the old man's warning about the box.

o-o-o

"Are we lost?" asked Pippin.

"Certainly looks that way…" Merry called to Frodo, "Hoy, Frodo, this doesn't look right."

"Mr. Merry," said Sam, shushing him.

"No, I think Merry's right. Let's head north," said Frodo.

"Maybe we should ask someone for directions," said Pippin.

"Who would we ask that knows where to find Melena's portals?" asked Merry. "There isn't anyone here."

Frodo tapped Merry on the arm. Moving around before them was a strange blue creature with six arms and talons across his back. The blue creature was rolling around, biting his feet. Taking his chances, Frodo approached the blue creature and asked:

"Excuse me, but can you help us? We're searching for these portals…"

The blue creature blinked in excitement. After sniffing Frodo's leg, the blue creature said, "Stitch knows way. Ship is back there." He crawled away very quickly.

"I think he's found the trail," said Sam.

Frodo looked back at his friends once, and then said, "Come on." Following the blue creature named Stitch, Frodo and his friends traveled northwest.

Harry, Ron, and Hermione waited by a boulder and a group of hemlocks. They had already found the site where the portals were located: a place littered in purple storms and lightning, yet still had silver lines and openings where portals took shape. Now all the trio had to do was sit around waiting for the rest of the company, if they would ever show up again.

"Where are they?" asked Ron, fidgeting.

"Maybe they got lost," said Hermione.

"Or they couldn't find this place," said Harry.

Just then, Jack Sparrow arrived, carrying a small wooden box. Before Ron had a chance to snatch the box from the pirate, Jack warned him against doing so. He then clutched the box ever so dearly. Melena was next to show up, carrying Melissa and Nash on her back. They introduced the frog Naveen to the others, before Jack had any ideas about using the box to smash the frog.

"You don't want to do that, Jack," warned Melena.

"I hate frogs and toads," said Jack, admitting freely.

Seeing the three were all right, Naveen hopped towards the area where the portals lay. Once Naveen had left the area, Kovu arrived with Gurgi and Mumble. Harry began to wonder if the others had become lost, as Hermione said earlier. The Pevensies came with Reepicheep, who said his farewell but not last goodbye before darting away from the sight. Before the others wondered what happened to the hobbits, Peter was knocked over by Stitch who laughed vigorously. Following Stitch came Frodo, Sam, Merry, and Pippin. All four hobbits were out of breath, panting as they came to a halt. Stitch wandered off towards the portals, but was stopped by Frodo, who asked that he stay a little longer. Stitch agreed, but didn't understand why.

So far, so good; the companions made it near the sight of the portals. They stopped by the boulder to eat and rest. Their first part of the journey was over. Now all that was needed was to find the portal that would take them to the excavation site and find the Emerald Diadem.

Chapter 26: 24: The Portals

Chapter by Aria Breuer (Aria_Breuer)

Chapter Text

Chapter Twenty-Four:

The Portals

That evening, as the campfire burned on and the others slept or talked, Harry found Frodo sitting on the grass, watching the purple clouds ahead. The wizard joined the hobbit soon after. Frodo noticed his coming but didn't say anything.

"What do you think is out there?" asked Harry.

"If anything, danger," said Frodo.

"How are your wounds?" asked Harry.

"Healing, and much better than they've been. I hardly feel pain now, but only some on the anniversaries of when I was attacked," explained Frodo. "I'm grateful the darkness is passing."

"And your heart?" asked Harry, growing concerned.

"It pains me now and then, worse since we've left the headquarters," said Frodo. "Sauron's out here, somewhere, tracking me or my presence."

"Let's hope he doesn't find us, or worse the Emerald Diadem. I wouldn't want to know what happened if that crown ended up in the wrong hands," said Harry.

"Go to sleep, Harry. You'll need it," said Frodo.

"What about you?" asked Harry. "You need sleep, too."

"I'll be fine," said Frodo.

After Harry left his side, Frodo kept watch for the next few hours. At times, he thought he saw shadowy shapes coming out of the darkness. The campfire died down and moonlight swept across the landscape. Before Frodo drowsed where he sat, he was tapped on the shoulder by Melena.

"Get some sleep, Frodo. I'll keep watch," said Melena.

Frodo, without saying a word, returned to the camp. Finding a spot near Sam and Merry, Frodo unrolled some blankets. As he lied down, he drifted off to sleep. The dream he encountered was strange, but just as strange as his other dreams:

He was inside a dark cave. Before him stood stone pedestals. On top of those pedestals were gemstones, one gemstone per pedestal. As he approached the middle pedestal with the emerald stone, the stone flashed bright green to a dim green. The gem continued to blink until Frodo picked it up, in which it transformed and became an emerald diadem. He looked up, where he saw Melissa gazing back at him. Her face appeared menacing yet crazed.

"Give me the stone, Frodo. What's its use to you?" asked Melissa, taunting him.

"You can't have it," cried Frodo.

"It's mine, Frodo. You promised," said Melissa.

"No!" said Frodo, holding the emerald diadem tightly. He looked about him, seeing the other companions doing nothing except watch the scene unfold.

"Give it to me!" shouted Melissa.

"No!" cried Frodo again. He fell into the darkness…

"No," mumbled Frodo, waking up.

The night was growing old, yet Frodo's companions lay asleep. The campfire had died down long ago. Frodo sighed in relief, before getting up from the ground. He saw Melena was asleep and Kovu was on watch. Finding no reason to go back to sleep, Frodo approached the lion.

"Bad dreams?" asked Kovu, keeping his gaze on the land before him.

"Just the one. I see you're keeping the camp safe," said Frodo.

"There's been no sightings of any villains, or anybody." Kovu looked back at Stitch, who was fast asleep and snoring. The blue alien inhaled some snot that was coming out from his nose. "Go back to sleep, Frodo."

"I don't feel the need," said Frodo, sitting on the grass next to the lion. "What do you think is out there, beyond the portals?"

"Could be anything, Frodo. Still, we have to find the right portal to reach the Emerald Diadem," said Kovu.

"I know that, but –"

"Frodo, we'll find it," said Kovu. He looked at the sky. "It's almost sunrise." He moved from his spot, rousing Melena in moments.

When all the companions were awake, they ate a warm breakfast thanks to Sam's cooking. Although the breakfast was short (as the hobbits thought it was compared to food in the Shire), it was well eaten by all. Kovu and Melena were in luck when they found a deer on the plains. They caught it and ate it, much to Melissa's disgust. Once breakfast was finished, the group left in file. Stitch went on ahead, as if knowing where he was going. Melena followed next with Kovu and Jack Sparrow behind her, the Pevensies following after them, then Harry, Ron, and Hermione, the hobbits Frodo, Sam, Merry, and Pippin next with Melissa and Nash not too far behind, and Mumble and Gurgi taking up the rear. They didn't realize they were being watched.

Meanwhile…

Katrina returned to the small encampment with news. The villains had moved their campsite somewhere in the distance, close to the Endless Plains. Finding Lara-Belle, Katrina told her:

"The heroes, they've taken the pass to the portals. I fear we're in luck," said Katrina.

"Good work, Katrina. You may rest now," said Maleficent.

Lara-Belle turned to Maleficent with cold, concerned eyes, "We're not going to follow them."

"Give it time. We'll catch up to them soon." Maleficent turned to a scout, "You know what to do and if you find where the portal is, inform us immediately."

"Is this wise?" asked Darth Vader. "The heroes will surely be onto us if we're spotted."

"All the more reason to keep a low profile. Now, send word to Voldemort and Sauron. Let them know we have found the heroes," said Maleficent.

Darth Vader placed a hand to his chest, before taking off towards a hologram. Maleficent said, boldly, "We'll meet again, Frodo Baggins. That I can be sure of." She cackled low, as her raven Diablo perched on her staff.

On the Endless Plains…

The second Frodo and the others reached the land filled with portals, they saw the sky darken and turn a dark purple hue. A misty haze filled the land. The companions watched as the portals flickered on and off in a melodic spread. Melissa stopped the group. Picking up a loose stone, Melissa flicked it at one of the silvery lines in the air. The silvery line opened wider to reveal a land with rolling hills and a thick, tall tree on a hill. The portal closed in seconds, but just enough for the other hobbits to see the other side.

"Don't fall in," said Melissa.

Frodo asked, "Was that the Shire?"

"One of the portals may have shown that," said Melissa.

"Melissa," sniped Nash.

While Melissa and Nash argued, Melena searched the portals for the right one. The others did the same; at the same time, they looked at each portal in awe, wondering which one to choose. Frodo noticed Stitch sniffing the air.

Frodo asked the blue alien, "You're not going to help us?"

"Stitch knows way," said Stitch in his high-pitched masculine voice. He pointed to one of the portals, "That one. Stitch will catch up." As Frodo walked away from the blue alien, Stitch said, "Stitch bye-bye." He fled towards the portal and jumped through, disappearing in seconds.

Frodo called the others, as he approached the portal, "Hoy, I think I found it! The portal!" He noticed Sam and the others catch up to him.

Melissa picked up another stone and tossed it at the portal. It opened to reveal a mountain landscape with a watery swamp that seemed alive and well-tended.

"Is that it?" asked Melissa.

"That's it. That's the portal we need to take," said Melena, watching as the portal closed again, showing Stitch last heading over to a red spaceship. "Come on. It's time to go."

"Ladies first," said Frodo, politely.

Melena grinned happily before jumping through the portal. Melissa followed under Nash's lead, moments before Nash went in after her. Merry followed the two, keeping a close watch on Melissa. Pippin and Sam followed after him, with Harry, Peter, Susan, Ron, Hermione, Lucy, and Edmund next. Jack Sparrow ran after the group, vanishing through the portal in seconds. Kovu wanted to wait, but Frodo allowed him to go next, with Mumble and Gurgi following afterwards. Frodo looked around, feeling uneasy and that someone was watching him. He thought the feeling was familiar, but he shook it off. After another minute, Frodo climbed into the portal, vanishing in seconds. The scarred lioness that watched the scene unfold fled away from the area, but not before finding a portal to jump through.

o-o-o

Leaving the portal, Frodo looked around at the landscape before him. The mountains lay in the near distance, snow-capped. Before him stood a grassy area with water in certain parts, sometimes making rivers. There were two ships standing on top of one of the grassy bogs: one of the ship was rounded and red, while the other was also red but more triangular in shape. An astromech droid was busy fixing the triangular ship. Moving away from the ship was a man with blondish-brown short hair and wearing a green jacket, shirt, and pants with some wide pockets. The man approached the group, as if seeing a ghost.

"Where have you all been? I've been waiting two days for you to show up," said the man.

Melena inquired, "Luke, we're sorry, but we had to save Jack and then there was the manner of finding the portals…"

"What is this, Luke?" asked Frodo, amazed at the ship.

"Do you like it? It's called the X-Wing. Useful battle ship when taking out Tie-fighters," said Luke.

Frodo looked confused. "What are Tie-fighters?"

"I'm sorry if I'm going over your head," said Luke, apologizing.

After banging against a tree, knocking it down, Stitch flew his red rounded spaceship through the same portal. Where he went to was anybody's guess, but Melena had a feeling that Stitch was returning home.

Jack said, "Well, now that the little stinker's gone away, maybe we can search for that treasure."

"Artoo, stay and watch the ship," said Luke to the astromech droid.

R2 gave a series of beeps.

As Luke joined the others, he asked them, "So, what did I miss?"

"Well, for starters, there's…" Harry related to Luke the events that took place during his absence. He told him how the heroes gathered at theWhite Perchtavern at the Shoal Docks, to what he already knew about the company's journey to finding the portals.

As the heroes traveled, Frodo had the uneasy feeling once again that he was being watched. He looked about, but saw no one. For a moment, he thought he saw a lioness hiding behind one of the trees. His attention returned to the present, thanks to Lucy.

"Frodo, are you all right?" asked Lucy.

Sighing in relief, Frodo answered, "Yes. Let's go. We're lagging." He noticed Lucy caught up to the others first, before him. Once he had reached the others, they started out again. Frodo knew whatever dangers lay ahead could only be hiding and waiting. He hoped that he was wrong.

Chapter 27: 25: Spring Meets Winter

Chapter by Aria Breuer (Aria_Breuer)

Chapter Text

Chapter Twenty-Five:

Spring Meets Winter

Time seemed to have no meaning across the boggy landscape. Tall green grass illuminated as the sun rose and set. The group stopped about two to three times that day to rest and eat. It was the only time they could afford. Melena was entirely cautious that someone was watching them. She wasn't alone, for Frodo had the same feeling. Merry would, during their rest, come and sit next to Melissa and Nash. Frodo understood since Melissa was Merry's wife, yet somehow Frodo had a suspicion not to trust Melissa during this particular quest. He feared she would ultimately give into greed, and that was something no one could afford to risk.

When they were set to leave the spot under an elongated tree, Jack thought about leading the company. He was backed down by Luke and Melena, who insisted they knew the way better than anyone. The others had their doubts yet trusted Luke and Melena. Luke recovered a few minutes later, when even he admitted he didn't know those parts. Frodo thought Melena to be a good leader, but he wondered whether Melena and Melissa spoke too much during their quest. Sam and Pippin, meantime, were wary of Merry spending too much time with Melissa and less with them.

Frodo noticed during their hike through the swamp that the Pevensies – Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy – and the trio – Harry, Ron, and Hermione – spent a lot of time either talking amongst their own group or to each other. Jack seemed all too interested in leading the company, which ended up getting him into a lot of arguments with Melena and Luke. Only Kovu, Mumble, and Gurgi stayed in the rear, willing to avoid the various disputes among the companions. Kovu was also making sure no one was following them, which seemed a good idea given the circ*mstances. Frodo, on the other hand, spent much of his time being silent. While Sam worried about him, as did Pippin, Frodo noticed they were more concerned about Merry than him. Frodo didn't mind the silence, but the loneliness got to him. Even Sam noticed this and spoke to him about it. Frodo knew somehow that Sam wouldn't dare leave his side, no matter what dangers befell them.

By the second day, the company left the swamp. After putting on their warmer gear, the companions ventured into a land where it seemed spring and winter was intertwined. The ground was covered in snow and showed patches of green grass in the same instance. The trees were many and were made up of pine, oak, maple, and chestnut. Melena introduced the place they traveled:

"Welcome to the Farefell Forest. The alpines aren't very far now. Just up at the top of that ridge, we should find the entrance to the caves," said Melena.

"Hopefully, we won't run into any danger," said Nash.

"What do you think is up there?" asked Melissa, curious.

"If anything, mice," said Edmund.

Melissa sneered. "I was being serious."

"We won't know until we get there. I can only lead you as far as the caves. I don't know what's in there myself," said Melena.

"Wait, you're not leaving us, are you?" asked Frodo.

Melena approached the hobbit. She sighed, "When we reach the entrance to the caves, it won't be safe for me. No lioness has entered those caves and made it out alive."

"Then consider yourself the first," said Frodo.

"Frodo, I won't go in there, no matter what you say," said Melena.

"Your sister Coral was brave for entering the Merswold Camp to find me," said Frodo.

"That's my sister you're talking about, only she was reckless," said Melena. "I can't go in there."

"Then what do we do?" asked Luke.

Melena charged on ahead. "We're going through the Farefell Forest. After that, you're on your own." She noticed the others followed her.

The Farefell Forest proved expansive. For a while, Frodo thought they wouldn't find the way back or the way out. There was nothing but trees for what seemed like hours. Frodo was reminded of the Silent Forest and how lost he became in that wilderness. As the companions traveled, they ran into a wandering, young elf woman. She appeared to be in danger.

"Please help a poor elf. Give me some food," said the elf woman.

"Sorry. We can't offer you that," said Melissa.

"Yes, it would be unwise for us to help poor creatures who are not poor," said Jack, adding onto Melissa's statement.

Frodo pulled out from his pack an apple. He handed it to the elf woman. "Here."

Melissa groaned. "Oh Frodo, you didn't have to do that." She was slugged by Nash.

Merry warned her, "Melissa, mind your manners."

The elf woman thanked Frodo for the food. "Thank you, kind sir. My name is Selene. Do you know where you're headed?"

"My friends and I were on our way to the caves, past this forest. Do you know where it is?" asked Frodo, politely.

"Frodo!" cried Merry.

Selene chuckled. "Of course I do. It's just north of here, up at the top of this very hill."

Frodo said, "Thank you. We'll be on our way."

Just as the companions started again, Selene warned them. "However, I should tell you that not many come back once they've entered the caves. There is a curse on those caves. You would do well not to go in. But what do I know? I'm a lowly elf princess. I'm sorry to have caused you all trouble."

"What sort of curse?" asked Melena.

Peter and Edmund stared at Melena, but did not receive a return gaze from her.

Selene answered as she walked in the opposite direction. "Any who enter those caves must solve a series of disastrous puzzles, each one more complex than the last. Many have failed and haven't returned."

"Well, we're not afraid," said Lucy.

Selene cried as the companions walked away. "I warn you: if you enter those caves, you'll never come back. They aren't call sheltered to keep you safe and warm. Know that and heed my warning." She walked away down the hill, her pace moving fast.

Sam caught up to Frodo, "Oi, you all right Mr. Frodo?"

"Sure," said Frodo, but his deep expression failed him. He merely gave Sam a warm glance, before looking ahead.

At the top of the hill, the companions left the forest behind. Although they didn't say it Harry, Ron, and Hermione all agreed the Farefell Forest reminded them of the Forbidden Forest at Hogwarts. Merry, Pippin, and Sam thought the Farefell Forest reminded them of the Old Forest, given some of the trees were moving. Melena led on, climbing higher up the hill. Eventually, she turned a corner and found the entrance to the Sheltered Caves. When the companions joined her, they saw before them a huge circular stone door blocking the entrance. Melena turned to Harry, telling him:

"Aslan told me you had something of value, something that may prove useful on this quest," said Melena.

Harry started, "How-"

Frodo interrupted. "Aslan gave us gifts before we left the Evenshire Camp. Unless you mean those…"

"That's exactly what I mean. The fact is Aslan said that Harry had the only means of opening this door." Melena added, "Getting in will be easy, but getting out may prove difficult."

"Now you sound like Coral," said Frodo, admitting freely.

Melena turned to Harry, "Harry, if you will."

Harry pulled out from a satchel a golden locket with strange writing on the front. The locket was heart-shaped and fairly medium-sized. Harry said, gruffly, "Okay."

Harry moved past the others and eventually made it to the front of the group. He stared at the locket in his hands for a moment before observing the door. In a circular fashion, the words shown were dwarvish, elvish, and other strange runes that were hardly recognizable. Harry heaved a sigh and continued searching. Towards the lower middle part of the door was a space that looked identical to the edges of the locket. Harry glanced at the locket one final time before placing it in the slot. He moved back as the door's outer rings and inner rings rotated in a cylindrical fashion. When the movement stopped, the locket opened to reveal a holographic projection of a woman wearing a plain dress and robe. The woman in the hologram bowed and then gave her explanation:

"Welcome travelers. If you are seeing this message, it means you are about to enter the Sheltered Caves, from which leads to the Emerald Diadem." The woman paused. "Before you begin your journey, let it be clear why you all are here: these caves are meant to test each and every one of you, even those who do not wish to enter the caves. Do not fear, for these tasks are needed to proceed into finding the Emerald Diadem. Should you fail, the circ*mstances will be grave. You must make it to the Emerald Diadem before the villains. It is crucial that you succeed."

The hologram ended with the warning: "This message will self-destruct in ten seconds." When the ten seconds passed, the message blew up inside the locket. The door continued its turning before Harry could get the locket back. Then he and the others watched in surprise as the locket tore apart and fell into the door, opening the seal and the door itself.

"Let's head back," cried Melena, who was forced to go forward thanks to Kovu's growl.

One by one, the companions entered the first room of the Sheltered Caves. When Melena came in last, the door sealed shut after her. Melena ran back, pounding on the door. She screamed and cried, but no one came to help her. Melena eventually turned back to face her companions, who only stared at her.

"You're not going to help me?" asked Melena. "I have to go back."

"Go back to what, Melena?" asked Harry. "We can only go forward, not back."

Melena stopped pounding on the door. She looked peeved. "I really didn't want to come in here."

"Where do you suppose we are?" asked Frodo, curious.

Along the walls sat various crates filled with dried hay. Miner's helmets were in areas, as well as ropes, coal, and other materials. Skeletons lay in heaps in some areas, as well as scraps of gold, silver, and bronze. Melena looked at the room once before a thought struck her.

"I've heard about this place. This must be the room where the miners who built these caves entered. It hasn't been seen for many years now," said Melena, growing excited.

"A mining colony, perhaps," said Lucy.

"The puzzles must be somewhere further into the cave," said Edmund.

"Let's check it out. Maybe we'll find the Emerald Diadem a lot faster," said Peter.

"Are you sure this is a good idea?" asked Susan, wary.

"Maybe we should have listened to Melena and turned back," said Mumble.

Gurgi jumped up and down in excitement, "Ooh, ooh, Gurgi will find safe path." He sped on ahead of the others.

Kovu shook his head. "That little creature's going to run into trouble."

Gurgi's voice called from the tunnel ahead. "Ooh, ooh, Gurgi's found something! Look!"

Leaving the miner's room, the companions entered a long hallway. Kovu journeyed to the darker part of the tunnel, but found it to be a dead end. After a call, Kovu ran up to the others, who left the tunnel and entered a room with seven tunnels across the way. Gurgi stood with a quizzical expression across his face. Mumble waddled up to the furry grey-and-white creature.

"Well, you found a tight spot, Gurgi," said Mumble.

"Look, there are words scrolled up top there," said Melena, gazing at the wall above the seven tunnels. Melena was right. The words formed a poem, which read in distinct bold handwriting:

Seven tunnels lie before you, each leading to more puzzles.
Two tunnels ahead will take you back, five will lead you forward.
Three will gain you closer to what you seek, but only one holds the key.

Choose wisely.

The group pondered over the poem's message for a couple of minutes. They knew they had to make a decision, but which tunnel led where remained a mystery. In the end, they decided they needed to split up, in order to see what lay beyond and who would be heading back to warn the other heroes where they were and their success. Soon it came down to hearing birds coming from two of the left-hand tunnels that one of the companions spoke:

"All right, I think Peter, Susan, Lu, and I should go to one of the left-handed tunnels," said Edmund. As complaints were called, Edmund stopped them. "No, someone needs to warn Aslan where we are. We've all been sensing that we're being watched. Let's not waste anymore time."

"Well, if you're taking the left-hand tunnel, then so are we," said Harry.

"Harry, I thought you would choose to stay," said Hermione.

"Yeah, Hermione and I can go back to the Animal Headquarters with the Pevensies. It has to be you that goes on," said Ron.

"Well we'll see what happens when we cross the left-hand tunnel," said Harry. Turning to the others, Harry said, "I'll meet you at the Emerald Diadem." With that, he, Ron, and Hermione took the furthest left-hand tunnel.

"Then I guess we're leaving, too," said Edmund.

"We are?" asked Lucy, saddened by the news.

"We'll see about that," said Peter.

After saying their farewells, the Pevensies took the second left-hand tunnel, which also had the sound of chirping birds. The other five tunnels had different sounds. One tunnel had the sound of a running waterfall. Another tunnel had burning torch flames. Melena decided to take the last right-hand tunnel, with Melissa and Nash following her lead. Jack, choosing no one, went on ahead to the second right-hand tunnel. Luke gave the others one last look, before saying:

"I guess we part ways for a time. I'll meet you at the treasure you seek," said Luke. The others said their goodbyes to him before he took the third left-hand tunnel, close to the middle tunnel.

Gurgi turned to the others and said, "Oh, oh, whose Gurgi going with?"

Frodo looked on at the middle tunnel, where he heard the rushing water. He said to his friends, "I think the middle tunnel would be the safest route to travel. It's more peaceful."

"Well, if you're going that way, then so are we," said Merry.

Frodo turned to him, stunned. "Wouldn't you rather travel with your wife?"

"I think I'll stick with you. Besides, Melissa's been hanging around Nash more than me," said Merry, admitting freely.

"I'm going with you, too, Frodo. You can't face danger alone," said Pippin.

Frodo turned to Sam, "What about you, Sam? Wouldn't you rather choose to go home?"

"I'm on a journey with you. I'll wait until the end before we're separated," said Sam.

Frodo laughed. "What good friends I have." With that, he led Sam, Merry, and Pippin down the middle tunnel.

Kovu, Gurgi, and Mumble watched the hobbits leave. Then they were alone with only one tunnel that hadn't been explored.

Gurgi cried in excitement, "Does this mean we're together again?"

"Looks like it, Gurgi," said Mumble.

Kovu lay down on the stone floor before the two creatures. "Well, if we're traveling together, get on my back. We've got a long way to go before we find the Emerald Diadem. I hope the others miss us as much as we do them." Once Mumble and Gurgi was on his back, Kovu led them down the third right-hand tunnel.

As they entered the darkness, Mumble said, "I hope the others are all right."

Kovu sighed. "I hope for that, too, Mumble. That I do."

Chapter 28: 26: The First Tasks

Chapter by Aria Breuer (Aria_Breuer)

Chapter Text

Chapter Twenty-Six:

The First Tasks

Meanwhile…

The villains entered the Farefell Forest. They had expected to catch up to the heroes soon. Now all they needed to do was find them. As Maleficent led the villains, after finding Scar and Zira, through the woods, they encountered a strange man wearing black robes. His head was balding, with only the black hairs on the sides of his skull. The man looked crazed, yet determined.

Maleficent stopped the man. "Pardon me, sir, may I ask who you are."

"Who am I?" cried the man. "Don't you know? My name is Gargamel. I am a great and powerful wizard."

Scar sneered, "He looks like an imposter."

"I am not an imposter, you twit. I am Gargamel, and I do not talk to unworthy peasants, such as yourself," said Gargamel, acting proud.

"Peasant? I am not…"

Maleficent stopped Scar. "There is no need for this."

"Have any of you seen these little blue creatures named Smurfs? I'd like to collect them," said Gargamel.

Zira said, "That is no concern of ours. We were just looking for some caves."

Gargamel pointed out a nearby mountain. "You mean those caves? I saw some heroes enter there about five minutes ago."

Maleficent said, "Well, it looks like we'll be on our way."

Gargamel asked, stunned, "You mean you won't help me find the Smurfs?" He recovered. "Oh, who needs you? I'll find those Smurfs myself." With that, he darted off into the wilderness.

Maleficent merely said, "What a strange man." Turning to Sauron, Maleficent asked, "Aren't we in luck?"

"Patience. We haven't found the heroes yet." Sauron then announced, "Let's move." He led the villains up the hill. In his mind, he knew he was more powerful than the Ring-bearer Baggins. He just had to prove it yet again.

In the Sheltered Caves…

Leaving the first tunnel, the four hobbits entered a large stone room. Two tunnels lay across the way. A stone fountain stood to their right, with a waterfall careening from somewhere above. Just as Frodo was about to drink the water, a strange white light appeared. The white light took shape, becoming a water spirit. Frodo took a few steps back as the water spirit told him and his friends:

"Before you can continue, you must tell something about yourself that you've told no one."

"I think we have to answer her," whispered Pippin.

"Something that we haven't told anyone?" asked Frodo, cautious.

The water spirit nodded.

"Alright. So, who wants to start?" asked Pippin, turning to his friends.

"Remember what I kept saying about Estella, how I like her?" asked Merry. He spoke, truthfully, "I think I might fancy her, enough that I want to marry her. The truth is Melissa and I never had much in common. If she betrays us, I'm divorcing her."

"Well, I hope you don't screw up another marriage, Merry," said Frodo.

"I've been afraid to become the Thain of the Shire. I know everyone expects me to, but I'm not sure if I can do it," said Pippin.

"My Gaffer was always putting me to work. There were days, I can admit, that I didn't want to do the work. But I respect my Gaffer, no matter how much he taught me," said Sam.

Frodo paused. "I know everyone thought I wasn't mourning for my parents. I never let on that I didn't, but I did shed my tears in secret. It was difficult losing both my parents. They never got to see me grow up the rest of the way. I miss them."

The water spirit said, "The way is clear. You may pass either tunnel, but be warned: one tunnel leads out, the other inwards. Choose carefully and wisely." The water spirit vanished.

The sounds returned to the room. From the left tunnel came sounds of birds. As for the right tunnel, there was nothing but a dreaded silence. Frodo knew he had to make a decision. After drinking from the silver flask that Aslan gave him, he told his friends:

"All right, one of us has to go down the right tunnel." Frodo paused. "I'm going, even if I have to go in alone."

"Then I'll come with you, Mr. Frodo," said Sam.

"No, Sam. I need someone to tell Aslan where we are. You go with Pippin," said Frodo. He turned to Merry, "What about you, Merry?"

"I'm coming with you, Frodo. Something tells me my journey isn't over," said Merry.

"Why can't I come?" asked Pippin.

"Pippin, you're a good friend, but this is something I need to do on my own," said Frodo.

"Mr. Frodo," said Sam, worried.

"Sam, let's go," said Pippin, dragging Sam to the left tunnel.

"Warn Aslan where we are," said Frodo.

Before Sam could say another word, he followed after Pippin. Frodo turned to Merry, but all Merry could say was:

"Come on, Frodo. The sooner we find that Emerald Diadem, the better," said Merry, leading the way. Frodo, keeping quiet, followed Merry down the right tunnel, which descended into the mountain.

o-o-o

As they walked down the tunnel, Melena saw the torches ablaze along the walls. There were many torches, each brimming with its own unique light. Sometimes the colors changed; other times, they stayed a bright orange color. Melena, Melissa, and Nash walked to the end of the tunnel. Out of the tunnel, the three came to an antechamber. There were three tunnels against one wall, each leading to a different direction. They could hear bird noises coming from the right tunnel, whereas the other two tunnels had different sounds. Nash looked at each object that was in the room, but also the skeleton lying on the floor. The three read the message on the top wall, above the three tunnels:

Welcome to the Hall of Betrayals!

Those who enter may find those they lost.
Those they lost will find what they need.
A betrayer may be among you, or you may betray yourself.
Find what you need, but be warned:
A betrayer will seek you out.

You've been warned.

Melena started, confused, "A betrayer? Who-"

"No one is going to betray us," said Nash. Turning to Melissa, Nash asked, "Right, Melissa?"

Melissa stared at the skeletons. Aimlessly, she said, "They must have died here, fighting each other. They were fools."

"What are you talking about?" asked Nash, confused.

Melena said, "We know from the riddle that there's a betrayer among us. But what does the second and third verse mean?" Then she understood.

Still, Nash explained, "I think it means we have to lose something in order to find something. But what do we lose?" He turned to Melissa, "Melissa, are you all right?"

Melissa murmured aloud, "Someone has to find the Emerald Diadem. I'm sure Frodo won't give into that power, but maybe someone else should take it first."

"What do you mean? Melissa, what are you saying?" asked Nash.

Melena stepped in front of Melissa, barring her teeth. "You're not getting anywhere near that crown." She told Nash, "Nash, run! Go tell Aslan and the others about where we are. Go!"

Melissa stopped Nash in his tracks. "Nash, stop! Why are you listening to a lioness? Don't you realize scarred lions and lionesses were originally lions and lions? How can we trust them?"

Nash sighed. "Melissa, I'm sorry." He took off down the right tunnel, leaving the caves.

Melissa turned to Melena and cried, "Why did you do that? You tore my friend from me."

"You were going to betray us in the first place. Coral was right to be suspicious of you," said Melena.

"How do you know about that?" asked Melissa, frustrated.

"Coral told me years ago, before she betrayed us," said Melena.

"Then you're a coward and a fool," said Melissa. She shoved Melena, before heading down the middle tunnel.

Melena stared up at the message, wondering if it was true. "So Melissa did betray us. She won't reach the Emerald Diadem heading that way. I'm sure of it." With that thought in mind, Melena charged down the left tunnel.

o-o-o

Leaving the tunnel, Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy entered a stone room. In the room were many different objects from Narnia. Along the walls were two tunnels. The left tunnel had sound of birds, while the right tunnel was gloomy. Finding a pedestal, Edmund pulled out a ruby gemstone.

"Aslan gave this to me, in hopes we would find this place. I hope it works," murmured Edmund to himself.

As he set the ruby gemstone on the pedestal, Edmund moved back to his brother and sisters. The ruby gemstone lifted into the air, sparking off bright red light. From the red light came a woman, who told the Pevensies:

"What you see before you are trinkets of what one has lost. If you wish to gain them all back, you must choose which item suits you the most. Good luck to you."

Lucy thought. "Which do we choose?"

Peter looked around until he found a group of swords. He looked until he found one with a lion's head on a gold hilt. He was about to pick it up until he found a silver shield with a red lion on the front. He didn't have to look long until Edmund picked up the shield. As Peter picked up the sword, Susan picked up a white quiver with red arrows. Lucy, deciding whether to take a dagger or a cordial filled with fire-flower juice, picked up the cordial.

The woman in the red gem told them, "You didn't choose wisely."

Edmund dropped the shield. As Peter picked up the shield, Edmund said, "I would take none of these items. It wouldn't be fair. Shouldn't Susan also have her horn?"

As Susan picked up the horn and Lucy the dagger, the woman said, "You have chosen wisely. You may proceed to the next task." She vanished, and so did the red gem.

The four felt changed, but Peter and Lucy began to regret it. Susan didn't understand what was happening. Edmund regretted what happened, as he felt the darkness but it went away. In a way, Edmund felt he did the right thing.

"Well, it's time to leave," said Peter, looking at the left tunnel with wondering eyes.

"It is? I thought we were going to help Frodo find the Emerald Diadem," said Lucy.

"You two are," said Peter, to Edmund and Lucy. "Susan and I cannot stay. But it's all right. You'll understand someday."

"I think I already do," said Edmund. "Good luck out there."

"We'll warn Aslan that we've come to the Sheltered Caves. We'll tell them you're searching for the Emerald Diadem," said Susan.

Edmund and Lucy embraced Peter and Susan. Peter and Susan then went down the left tunnel. Edmund looked at Lucy, before they journeyed down the right tunnel. They hoped the others were all right.

o-o-o

Harry, Ron, and Hermione entered a room with a stone table. On the table were a number of potions. Also on the table was a parchment, which Hermione picked up and read aloud:

"Ten potions stand before you:
Five will cause destruction,
Three will leave you with nightmares,
One will take you to the light,
One will take you underground.

Choose wisely."

"It looks like we have to pick one," said Ron.

Hermione looked at the potions, figuring out the riddle as she looked at each one. Eventually, she gave Ron a potion and Harry a potion.

She said, "These are the ones. The one that takes us back…" she pointed to the potion in Ron's hand, "…and the potion that takes us underground." She pointed to the potion in Harry's hand.

Harry asked, "Are you sure, Hermione?"

"I'm positive," said Hermione. She turned to Ron, "Ron, you take that potion first and give me some." Turning to Harry, she said, "Harry, you drink that potion. It has to be you that goes on."

"Hermione's right," said Ron. He drank down half of the potion, before handing it to Hermione. "You have to go, Harry. Find the Emerald Diadem and the others. We'll find Aslan."

Harry nodded. "Good luck, to both of you." He watched Ron and Hermione pass through the fire in the left tunnel. He drank down the potion in his hands, before walking over to the right tunnel. He walked through the fire and entered the right tunnel, which descended into the mountain.

o-o-o

After a walk down the tunnel, Luke came out into a dimly lit stone room. The torches on the walls were emblazoned with green flames. Three tunnels stood before him, each going in a different direction. The tunnel on the left led to a dead end. The tunnel in the center went upwards. The tunnel on the right continued on. Just as Luke was about to make a decision, he heard a voice cry:

"Luke! Luke, where are you? Luke!"

"Leia, is that you?" cried Luke.

A second voice, masculine this time, called, "Luke, we need your help: Chewy's onto something."

"Han?" asked Luke, bewildered. "Where are you?"

Then it struck Luke that the voices were only sounds in the air, meant to divert him from his current task. Luke noticed the voices came from the left tunnel. The center tunnel had sounds of birds flapping. However, Luke didn't hear any sounds from the right tunnel. In spite of wanting to chase after the voices, Luke pressed on down the right tunnel. The voices stopped instantaneously.

o-o-o

Leaving the tunnel, Jack entered room filled with treasure. The Aztec gold was sitting at the top of a mound, inside a large chest. Before Jack could touch the treasure, another figure entered the room. The man wore a large plumed hat, trench coat, shirt, pants, and boots. Jack recognized the man as Barbossa.

"Jack, Jack, Jack. Did you really think you could go after the Aztec gold again?" asked Barbossa. "You remember how it was last time."

Pulling out his sword, Jack said, "You. What are you doing here?"

"Dare ye ask that question," said Barbossa. "The real question is why did you come all this way to find the Emerald Diadem?"

"How do you know about what I'm after?" asked Jack, defensive.

"You won't find it, Jack. Not at this rate. But should ye succeed in finding it, this quest of yours will change you," said Barbossa.

"I don't believe you," said Jack, readying his sword.

"What are you afraid of? What has driven you this far to come up short, Jack?" asked Barbossa.

"Who says I'm afraid?" asked Jack.

"Do you think you can best me, Jack? Or have you already forgotten where you are? These hollowed caverns will change you. They're already working on you. Any who pass here either end up changed or dead, but few have come out living to tell the tale," said Barbossa. "You can't win, Jack. You can't beat me. I'm not really here."

Then Jack remembered. Barbossa laughed as Jack lowered his weapon.

"Now that's better," said Barbossa.

"What do I have to do?" asked Jack.

"What would you do in this situation? You can't beat me, Jack," said Barbossa.

"No, but if we work together, maybe we can both leave with a profit," said Jack.

"The treasure's cursed, Jack. There's nothing you can do," said Barbossa.

"Don't say that. There's always something to do. Maybe if we work together, we can achieve leaving this cave…"

"I cannot leave this cave, nor can you," said Barbossa.

"That's not true. You're lying to me," said Jack.

"Am I?" asked Barbossa.

"Yes, indeed. If you knew a way out, you would have said something. This is just an illusion, meant to throw me off. You're not really here, as you said. There is a way out, isn't there?" asked Jack, thinking smart.

Barbossa laughed, and then faded from sight. The treasure also faded, revealing a lone tunnel across the way. Jack, feeling pleased with himself for figuring the riddle out yet feeling changed at the same time, ran towards the tunnel. He looked back once, but saw Barbossa laughing at him. Ignoring the pirate, Jack took strides onwards, descending deeper into the mountain.

o-o-o

When Kovu entered the next room, carrying Gurgi and Mumble on his back, he saw before them three tunnels. Bird sounds could be heard in the distance, but it didn't look as if the tunnels led that way. Instead, the tunnels seemed to be going on.

Kovu peered up at the top wall, crying out, "Look!"

On the wall read in fine bold handwriting:

Three tunnels lay before you:
One leading north, one leading west,
the third leading downwards.

Choose the correct path.

"Which one do we pick?" asked Kovu.

"Ooh, ooh, Gurgi will choose," said Gurgi. Before he could run on ahead, Kovu blocked him with a foot.

"We need to choose the correct path, Gurgi." Kovu looked at the tunnels, "Or else we'll be going in circles."

Mumble waddled towards the left tunnel, which looked like it was descending. He heard no sounds in that tunnel, only an ominous silence. "Do you think it's this way? The other two tunnels wouldn't be leading to the Emerald Diadem. They would just lead nowhere."

"You can sense it, huh Mumble?" asked Kovu.

Mumble nodded.

Kovu lied down. "You better climb on my back." Once Gurgi and Mumble did this, Kovu then traveled down the left-hand tunnel. It was obvious the three were right.

Chapter 29: 27: The Second Tasks

Chapter by Aria Breuer (Aria_Breuer)

Chapter Text

Chapter Twenty-Seven:

The Second Tasks

Out from the second tunnel, Melena entered a stone room with only one tunnel across the way. Just as Melena crosses the room, she is halted by a strange rumbling. The rumbling stopped, causing a heavy mist to enter the room. Melena searched for the way out, but ended up seeing a scarred lioness blocking the way.

"Move, scarred. I have to go on," said Melena.

"Scarred? Don't you remember me?" asked the scarred lioness.

Melena guessed, squinting her eyes. "Coral? No, you're not here."

The scarred lioness laughed. "You are correct, Melena. You seem to be in a rut."

"Daring, you would know," said Melena.

"Need any help escaping this task?" asked Coral.

"Not from you," said Melena.

Coral vanished into the mist. "Such a pity. I thought you trusted me once."

"You were the one who easily fell. Don't blame me if you couldn't escape your fate," said Melena.

Coral laughed again. "You're so reckless, Melena."

"I am not reckless," said Melena.

"Really? Then how is it you cannot find your way out, thinking proudly that you can," said Coral. "You need my help. Admit it."

"No… I don't," said Melena.

"Are you sure? I know the way," said Coral.

Melena murmured, "Oh, I bet you do."

"Do you want out of this mist or not? Face it, you need your sisters. Whether or not they believe you is up to them to decide," said Coral.

Finding no way out, Melena reconsidered, "Maybe I do need help, but just this once."

"Fair enough," said Coral, coming back from the shadows. "Maybe now you'll trust me."

"I didn't say that," said Melena.

"Oh Melena, why can't you simply trust your sisters, find a way to redeem themselves?" asked Coral, absentmindedly. "Your family must be fractured."

"When aren't families fractured?" asked Melena.

"You need my help, Melena. I can see it in your eyes," said Coral.

"How come I can't see what drives you?" asked Melena.

Coral chuckled. "Open your heart and close your mind. Maybe then you'll understand."

Melena did as Coral asked. She found, in a way, that she could trust Coral. But how deep that trust was remained a mystery. As Melena followed Coral through the mist, she noticed the mist vanish but so did Coral. Melena realized it was an illusion. As she entered the next tunnel, she wondered the fate of the other companions, how Frodo was holding up, and where Melissa was. She knew they couldn't be too far away from the Emerald Diadem.

o-o-o

Entering the next room, Frodo and Merry come across two doors, blocking their way to the next task. The door on the left had a bird symbol on the wood. The door on the right showed a tunnel and a crown. Peering up at the wall, and getting Merry's attention, Frodo read the bold handwriting in the stone:

Two doors lie before you.
One door turns you back.
The other door leads you on.

Choose carefully.

"Merry, you should take the left door and find Sam and Pippin. I need to go on," said Frodo.

"Frodo, I'm coming with you," said Merry, stunned.

"Merry…"

"Cousin, I know we'll find the Emerald Diadem, but you can't expect to go on alone," said Merry.

Frodo grinned. "I should have known you wanted to come along." He opened the right door and found a descending tunnel.

"This is our task: to find the Emerald Diadem. I'm not stopping now," said Merry.

"Then come on," said Frodo, leading the way. As Merry followed him, the door closed after them, forcing them to continue onwards through the maze.

o-o-o

Leaving the second tunnel, Kovu brought Gurgi and Mumble to a corridor with a lone tunnel at the end. As Kovu walked forward, he was thrown back by a strange white light. Gurgi and Mumble were thrown off Kovu. Recovering from the blow, Mumble and Gurgi moved beside Kovu, surprised to see a lion with a dark mane stand before them.

Kovu asked, stunned, "Scar?"

The lion cackled. "Yes, that's right. It's me."

"Kovu, do you know him?" asked Mumble.

"I've heard of him," said Kovu, admitting.

Scar asked, "Why have you come? Have you come to witness my triumph?"

"Go away. You're dead, Scar," said Kovu.

Scar laughed. "Am I truly? Some would say otherwise. I could be following you, or I couldn't be."

Gurgi asked, concerned, "What's wrong? Kovu?"

Kovu sighed, giving in. To Scar, he asked, "What do I have to do?"

Scar said, testing, "Simply defeat me by besting me with your best roar." He then bellowed a loud roar."

Gurgi said, "Kovu, you can best him."

Kovu, hesitant at first, let out a roar that was louder than Scar's. He watched as Scar cackled and then vanished from sight.

"He's gone. Let's go," said Kovu.

The three walked a good distance before a mist appeared in front of them. From the mist came an all black penguin with fiery red eyes. The penguin cackled before Mumble slid forward to catch him. The mist vanished in seconds, leaving Mumble transfixed and bewildered.

"Nix, wait until I get my flippers on you!" cried Mumble.

A voice called to him, "Is that really the best you can do? You know you can't beat me here."

"Mumble," said Gurgi, catching up to the Emperor Penguin.

Kovu blocked Mumble's path with a paw. "Don't. It's just an illusion, meant to throw us off. All you can do is simply ignore it."

"Yeah, go ahead and ignore me. It's what your good at, Mumble Happyfeet," said the voice, belonging to Nix.

As the three pressed on, another mist formed before them. Gurgi fled when he saw the mist revealed the Horned King. Gurgi merely closed his eyes, just as the illusion of the Horned King vanished. Gurgi opened his eyes afterwards, climbing on Kovu's back in seconds. Mumble did the same, moments before Kovu ran through the next tunnel.

o-o-o

Out from the second tunnel, Harry entered an octagonal stone room. As he set a foot on the stone floor, a mist surrounded the room's floor, reaching to Harry's knees. A cold wind blew, setting the room to a freezing state. Harry pulled out his wand, setting his defenses. The hairs on the back of his neck went up as he sensed something coming out of the mist. Recognizing the skeletal cloaked figures as Dementors, Harry cast a defensive spell at it, saying:

"Expecto Patronum!"

The spell worked, causing the Dementors to fly away. As Harry walked across the room, he saw fire crabs. Harry cast the spell "Stupefy", stunning the fire crabs. As more creatures came out from the mist, Harry fought them off with spells, while running towards the tunnel. He climbed the stone stairs, hoping there wouldn't be anymore creatures chasing after him.

o-o-o

Finding his way into an antechamber, Luke found a pedestal with a hollow opening in the center. After checking the hole, Luke pulled out the wooden staff Aslan gave to him. As he placed the wooden staff into the hole, the wooden staff floated in the air before revealing a hologram of a meeting inside Aslan's tent. Luke watched the hologram with much interest:

"We need to hold back the advances. If the villains knew what we were doing, or what we're up against. We're screwed," said Anakin Skywalker.

"Anakin, you know we can't do that. The villains may not be as advanced as you say they are," said Obi-Wan Kenobi, a younger version of himself.

Yoda told the two Jedi, "Visit we will the base of the villains. Stop them we must."

Aslan said, "Yoda, Obi-Wan, even if we could break their defenses, the villains will be dangerous. No, we should wait until the Ring-bearer arrives before we decide to invade their campsite again."

"Do you really think he'll come?" asked Anakin, curious.

Aslan closed his eyes, and then said, "Yes."

"But how will we know that he is the one who must stop all evil?" asked Obi-Wan, confused. "There could be others that will stop all evil from spreading across all lands."

"Yes, but if my instincts serves me well, Frodo Baggins may be our only hope of helping to end this threat once and for all," said Aslan.

Anakin said, "And if he is not ready for this task?"

"He'll need to be, if we are to determine where we begin to stop them. No, he will need to go back in time to see how we can prevent evil from spreading. He will come," said Aslan. "Now, onto other business…"

Luke waited until the hologram was finished before the message vanished. The wooden staff returned to the pedestal and stayed there. Luke found it difficult to pull the staff out, as if it fitted there to begin with. He left the staff alone as it showed him which tunnel to take.

o-o-o

Edmund and Lucy entered a stone room. Two tunnels stood before them, but there was no telling where they led. As they stepped forward, a mist entered the room. When the mist evaporated, it revealed two tables with beauty products. Lucy stared at the objects, feeling tempted by them. Facing the temptation she walked forward, only to come face-to-face with a lone mirror. The mirror revealed to Lucy several women who looked more beautiful than she. She read the message at the top of the mirror to herself:

Though you may be green with envy,
Look into the mirror and see yourself dainty.

Just as she looked into the mirror, Lucy realized the temptation and stepped back. She cried, "No!" and ran over to Edmund. The mirror stayed in the same place.

"Lucy, you can't be afraid. You have to face it," said Edmund.

Lucy turned to the mirror again. She held onto Edmund's hand as he led her past the mirror. Lucy looked back once, only to see the mirror twirl and face her.

"Lucy, you have to fight it," said Edmund.

Edmund's words faltered upon seeing the tables vanish, only to reveal mountains of gold and jewels appear on all corners of the room. Edmund picked up a few gold pieces, as Lucy returned her gaze to the mirror. He heard Lucy say "no" again, before she turned away from the mirror. The mirror vanished, leaving Lucy in a state of relief. The mist returned, which followed with the White Witch's appearance. The White Witch flitted in and out of the mist, as she tempted Edmund:

"Go on, Edmund. You know you want the treasure. It'll make you rich. You want to be king? I can give that to you," said the White Witch.

Edmund turned to the White Witch, telling her, "You're dead."

"That's not true, is it boy? Or are you a man now?" The White Witch tempted him. "Just take the treasure. Be ruler and your friends can be your servants."

"Don't listen to her, Edmund. We're being tested," cried Lucy.

"I can make you a king, Edmund," said the White Witch, extending a hand to him.

Lucy called to him. "Edmund, remember what happened in the cave at Narnia. You're being bewitched." She noticed Edmund stare at the gold again. "You don't have to take it, Edmund. It's tempting you." She told him last, "Please Edmund. Just drop the gold and let's go."

Edmund, thinking carefully on his decision, released the gold. The White Witch disappeared into the mist, but so did the gold. Edmund stood up, turning to Lucy.

"Thanks," said Edmund.

"You're welcome," said Lucy. As she heard bird sounds coming from the left tunnel, Lucy said, "Edmund, I need to warn Aslan where we are. You think you can manage from here?"

"Yes," said Edmund. "You go. I'll go on from here."

"Good luck, Edmund," said Lucy, embracing her brother.

Lucy then ran down the left tunnel. Edmund, seeing the right tunnel descend, took off once Lucy had fled the room. Edmund hoped the others were faring better, yet he felt concern towards Frodo.

o-o-o

As Jack entered the next stone room, he saw it was circular. Stone pillars stood against the walls, while arched walls revealed statues of pirate captains. Jack looked in awe at the names, including some more notable pirates such as Henry Morgan, John Crabbe, and Bartholomew Roberts "Black Bart". While checking out the different statues, Jack noticed one of the statues was Davy Jones, only in his fish pirate form. He took a few steps back as the statue came to life. Jones then jumped off the stone pedestal and approached the pirate captain.

"Jack Sparrow, you have a debt to pay up," said Davy Jones.

"I thought we had settled this with your death," said Jack.

Jones laughed. "That we did, but since I'm alive the debt still comes down to it."

"In what form?" asked Jack, although he regretted asking the question.

"What form indeed," said Jones.

"You know Captain Jones, we don't need to settle the debt if it's already paid in full," said Jack.

"How's that?" asked Jones, confused.

"You may recall that, since your death, piracy is still around. So, you have plenty other pirates to deal with than me," said Jack.

Jones cackled. "That may be so, but you still owe me a debt."

"I owe you no debt, mate. As you see, I have the upper hand and you're just waiting for another ship to take you away from here," said Jack.

"You still owe me a debt," said Jones.

"What sort of debt?" asked Jack, regretting that question too.

"You have until someone reaches the Emerald Diadem. Only then can our debt be settled. The choice is yours, Sparrow. Your task starts now," said Jones. He vanished into the mist.

Even after Jones' leave, Jack wondered whether he had seen an illusion or Jones in the flesh. Shaking the thought off, Jack made his way to the tunnel. The door opened up for him, allowing Jack to move on and enter the final task.

Chapter 30: 28: The Third Tasks

Chapter by Aria Breuer (Aria_Breuer)

Chapter Text

Chapter Twenty-Eight:

The Third Tasks

When Kovu left the tunnel, carrying Mumble and Gurgi on his back, the three entered a tight stone room with two torches burning against either wall; before them stood a wall, with a horn slot engraved above their heads. Kovu, after taking off the silver horn that Aslan gave him before he set out with the others on their first mission, grabbed the horn with his teeth. He placed the horn into the slot with his paws, releasing the horn from his jaws. The second the horn moved into the wall, out popped from the wall a pink seashell with strange writing. The seashell landed on Mumble's flipper, sticking good and making sure he wouldn't move it. The wall also popped out a gold-speckled flute, which Gurgi grabbed before the wall moved out of the way.

Kovu, Mumble, and Gurgi proceeded on. The next wall showed a slot for a stick and a flute. Mumble pulled out a stick from his small satchel, the one item that Aslan gave him, and placed it into the wall. Gurgi did the same to the flute. Both items fit into the slots, allowing the wall to move but not before it popped out a red seashell, which stuck to Mumble's other flipper. On the third and final wall, Mumble placed the red seashell into the slot. The seashell broke as the wall moved, yet it remained in the wall. Once the wall was away, revealed before the three companions was a tunnel that was barred. Mumble saw there was a slot for the pink seashell. As he placed the seashell on the slot, the tunnel's bars opened to reveal a passage.

Kovu said, "Come on. Let's go."

As Mumble moved his flipper, the seashell stuck. Realizing the tunnel's bars wouldn't stay up for long, Mumble waddled and slid through the opening, just seconds before the bars closed again. Relieved, Mumble ran after Kovu and Gurgi.

o-o-o

Entering the next room, Jack saw the mist swarm upwards. The mist stopped at his kneecaps, moments before a figure wearing black pirate outfit approached. In his hand was a rum bottle, which the pirate drank from. Jack had his wooden box that the old man gave him earlier at the ready.

"Jack Sparrow," said the man, before smashing his rum bottle. "We meet again."

"Have I threatened you before?" asked Jack, confused.

"Don't you remember me?" asked the man, stepping out to reveal he had a black beard and hair.

"Blackbeard," said Jack.

"Then you know me and why you are not allowed my daughter, Angelica," said Blackbeard. "It would be a waste if she knew you were still alive."

"You died near the Fountain of Youth," said Jack, admitting.

"Did I? And what makes you think me dead?" asked Blackbeard.

"Aren't you?" asked Jack, pulling out the wooden box.

Blackbeard took a step back. "Do not open that box! You have no idea what it might do."

"Oh really? Watch this," said Jack, opening the box. He ducked as the wooden box hit the floor, sending spirits after Blackbeard. Blackbeard disappeared into the box, moments into the mist fading. "Oh, so that's what it does. Best to leave it here." As he walked away, the box vanished into the mist. After pulling a lever, Jack entered the next tunnel, hoping he wouldn't encounter anymore villains.

o-o-o

Luke entered the next room. It was circular, made from stone. Pillars stood along the walls, supporting the ceiling. Just as Luke stepped forward, he sensed that he wasn't alone. Luke pulled out his blaster pistol, right at the moment he saw a figure in the room. He wore a black skull mask and black robes. In the man's hand was a red lightsaber, which he turned on.

The man spoke in a deep, hollow voice, "You certainly prove you are not weak, young Skywalker. Might we test your abilities with lightsabers?"

"I'm not afraid of you," said Luke.

The man laughed. "You are just a boy."

Luke put his blaster pistol back, and pulled out his blue lightsaber. "I'm not afraid of you, Darth Vader!" Just as he moved the lightsaber, Darth Vader was gone. Luke looked troubled, wondering what that was all about. Then he noticed another figure in the room. "Ben. Ben Kenobi, is that you?"

The spectral figure asked him, "Luke, what are you doing? You've only begun training as a Jedi."

Luke turned off his lightsaber and put it away. "I saw Darth Vader."

Ben Kenobi said, "Yes, he is coming. He'll want to face you, but this you must not do. Not here."

"What can I do?" asked Luke.

Ben told him, "Luke, you will find that fighting may be your only option, but that is not the case. In order to face this darkness, you must not fight it. You must flee, and your companions will think the same."

"But how will I know when to flee? I'm not a coward," said Luke.

Ben said, "I believe you're not, but you must learn to be cautious. There's far more events teeming here than we were led to believe. The Halfling is important, and his task is not the same as yours."

"Which Halfling?" asked Luke.

Ben said, "When you learn to search your feelings, you will know."

"Frodo. Is it Frodo?" asked Luke, understanding.

"Your insides serve you well. While you are here, you must protect him at all costs. He will need you here, but any other time remains a mystery. Seek out the truth, Luke. It's the only way you'll be getting out of this maze alive," said Ben.

Luke nodded, "I understand."

"And with that, I take my leave," said Ben, fading before his eyes.

Luke, now alone, noticed the tunnel doors open. He followed the tunnel ahead of him, in hopes he would find the others. He hoped he wasn't too late.

o-o-o

Coming out from the tunnel, Frodo and Merry entered a large cavern. A wide chasm stood before them. They found the only way across was a wooden bridge. Guarding the bridge was a man wearing Jedi robes. Frodo and Merry stopped before the man, who halted them.

"Any who crosses this bridge must answer to three questions. Know these questions will have deep meaning. You have three choices when answering the questions," said the man.

"Are you a Jedi?" asked Frodo.

The man nodded. "I went to the Unknown Regions long ago. When searching for the way back, I came here. I've been told to protect this bridge until the time comes." He asked the two hobbits, "Are you ready?"

"Should we, Frodo?" asked Merry.

"It's the only way across, Merry," said Frodo. He turned to the Jedi, saying, "We're ready. Ask us your questions."

"Very good," said the Jedi. He right away asked his first question, "You are traveling through a forest and you see someone injured. You only have one healing herb and haven't seen another in weeks. What do you do?" He gave the choices, "One: You ask the girl for information. Two: You heal the girl and ask how she came to the forest. Three: You do nothing."

"Wait, when was the person a girl?" asked Merry, confused.

"Answer," said the Jedi.

Frodo, hesitant at first, answered, "Two: heal her, of course."

The Jedi turned to Merry, "And you? What is your answer?"

Merry answered, "Number two." He murmured to Frodo, "We don't have to answer these questions."

The Jedi nodded, "A wise decision, from both of you." He eyed Merry before moving on, "Next question: You are at a party and you see a girl sitting by herself. You want to ask her why she is alone, yet you don't want to disappoint your friends. What do you do?" He then gave the choices, "One: You invite the girl into your posse. Two: You go right up to the girl and speak to her. Three: You leave the girl alone."

Merry said right away, "One. That's what I would do."

Frodo paused to think. "Number two."

The Jedi told them, "Interesting choices. Both are correct, yet they determine your different paths."

"I don't understand," admitted Merry, confused.

The Jedi proceeded. "Onto the third and final question: One of your companions has betrayed you. That companion is Melissa Snowberry. She plans on finding the Emerald Diadem and keeping it for herself. What will you do?" He gave them the choices, before Merry could protest. "One: You talk to her personally. Two: You reach the Emerald Diadem and attempt to reason with her. Three: You do nothing."

"How is Melissa betraying us? How would you know that?" asked Merry, flustered.

The Jedi said, "How I know is not important. Answer."

Merry said, "I would choose one. I think it's time Melissa and I had a talk."

Frodo said, "No. I would choose two. It's important we get there first, and then speak to Melissa afterwards."

The Jedi nodded. "A wise choice." He told the two hobbits, "You have both answered well. You may proceed, down the right tunnel. From there, you will come to a dungeon chamber. Follow the right path until you reach a chamber. Afterwards, you will find the Emerald Diadem."

"Thank you," said Frodo.

Merry watched the Jedi suspiciously, before following after Frodo across the bridge. Once across, the two walked across the ledge until they found a lone tunnel to their right. They traveled through it at once, determined to reach the Emerald Diadem before Melissa.

o-o-o

The second Melena entered a long stone room, the lights went out. All around her, Melena could hear voices that were familiar to her. She panicked upon hearing cries. Then a voice said:

"What's the matter, Melena? You can't take the silence, or is it the pain?" asked the familiar voice.

"Lara-Belle, what are you doing here?" asked Melena.

As the lights flickered on and off, a scarred lioness came out from the shadows. "Oh, and where's your companions? Did they leave you?"

"Shut up. You know nothing about them," said Melena.

"I know that you care about them. Is it true that you had a crush on Peregrin Took, the hobbit, or was it the Elf Legolas Thranduilion?" Lara-Belle said when she received no answer, "Oh, you still do, don't you?"

"What do you know of that?" asked Melena.

"If you're lucky to survive this encounter, I may let you live," said Lara-Belle. "Ready?"

In one sweeping movement, lioness was against scarred lioness. Claw against claw, the two sisters fought in the room. Melena received a few scars in the battle, yet she fought against Lara-Belle's swift attacks. Melena dodged another blow, before forcing Lara-Belle to the ground. Lara-Belle cackled:

"You'll never get Coral back. She's been Katrina for too long. She was always weaker than both of us," said Lara-Belle.

"What do you know, Lara-Belle? Or maybe I should call you Scar-ra?" said Melena, as she jabbed her claws at Lara-Belle's face. The blow left a deepened scar across Lara-Belle's eye. Melena watched as Lara-Belle fled the scene, but not before Melena chased after her.

o-o-o

As he entered the next room, Edmund saw ahead of him his three siblings. He wondered how they were there, but then he remembered Peter, Susan, and Lucy left to warn Aslan. He knew then this was only an illusion.

"You cannot pass this way, Edmund," said Susan.

"What were you doing, Edmund? What could you possibly have been thinking?" asked Lucy.

"You knew I was a better king than you. I still am. What makes you any different?" asked Peter.

"This isn't like you," said Edmund, admitting.

"Answer us, Edmund," said Peter, Susan, and Lucy in unison.

"Peter is the heroic one, the brother we've always wanted. Susan is the brain, fairer and beautiful than me. I'm the valiant one who is innocent. What were you to us, Edmund? You're the one that was always pushed around," said Lucy, venomous.

"I'm the better brother of my – I mean our sisters. You always needed a lesson. You're weak, Edmund. You always were," said Peter.

"You could never become more than Peter and I. You're not a real king," said Susan. "Well? What have you to say for yourself?"

Edmund answered, truthfully, "Look, I may not have always been the best brother to any of you, but thanks to both quests I have gained friends. Friends that care about me. Even I know those things that the three of you have said are true, but so is what I have learned. I've grown stronger since Narnia and I know I'll do better."

He watched as his siblings vanished. In their place were Edmund's companions. He knew then they were illusions as well, since he remembered his companions were somewhere else in the tunnels. Melena and Coral weren't present in the illusions, but neither were Mumble and Gurgi. Anakin and Luke Skywalker remained in the distance.

"You could have stayed with us, Edmund. You could have. Instead, you chose to go in alone. Why?" asked Frodo.

"We needed you, Edmund. You were a friend to us," said Harry.

"Melissa's betrayed us, Edmund. We need your help," said Kovu. "Why did you abandon us?"

"It's your call, son. Don't mess this up," said Jack.

"You are my friends. Yes, even you Jack Sparrow. I do need you and I'm coming. Where do I meet you all?" asked Edmund.

"At the Emerald Diadem," said the four in unison.

"We'll see you soon," said Frodo.

The illusions vanished. The light returned to the room, but so did a lone tunnel that ascended. Edmund ran across the room. Seeing no more illusions, Edmund climbed up the tunnel.

o-o-o

Leaving the tunnel, Harry entered a stone room that looked in the shape of an hourglass. Pillars supported the ceiling in this room as well. Before Harry could move forward, he was forced to close his eyes as memories swarmed his vision.

Harry was an infant when Dumbledore dropped him off at the doorstep to Number Four Privet Drive. He was five when his cousin Dudley picked on him. He was forced to work, while his cousin was spoiled. He was eleven when he received his first letter that would change the course of his life.

Finding a way to open his eyes, Harry stepped forward, only to step on a stone pad. Harry continued to move onwards as he pressed more stone pads. Out from the walls spurred spears, which came from both walls. When he reached the middle of the room, the memories started again:

Harry was eleven when he went to Hogwarts during his first year. He solved the mystery of the third floor corridor with his friends, Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger. He was twelve when he defeated the Tom Riddle horcrux in the Chamber of Secrets. He was thirteen when he discovered Sirius Black was innocent. He was fourteen when he competed in the Tri-Wizard Tournament and won, but the price was great. He was fifteen when he fought Voldemort's Death Eaters, only to lose Sirius Black. He was sixteen when Dumbledore was killed by Severus Snape. He was seventeen when he at last defeated Voldemort, and was freed from the horcrux that lived inside him.

Harry opened his eyes. The memories stopped. As he made his way down the hall, keeping his feet from touching the stone pads on the floor, Harry reached the end of the room, only to come across the last few memories:

Harry, months after defeating Voldemort, was sent by Aslan to the Evenshire Camp. His friends Ron and Hermione received the same summons. There, Harry met Frodo Baggins and Edmund Pevensie, the two new friends he made at the heroes' camp. He remembered their first quest together, to find out why the stars were blinking out and bring them back. He knew the task was complete and the quest successful. He learned Anakin Skywalker had left of his own accord and that Coral led them through the Silent Forest. He witnessed the Battle at the Evenshire Camp and the evacuation thereafter. He came to the Animal Headquarters with the Pevensies and had some good times there. After Frodo's twenty-year sleep, which had only been a year in the Wizardry World, he was called back with his friends to the Animal Headquarters, where there were long discussions about the trek to the Emerald Diadem. After all the planning, he and his companions set out to the Sheltered Caves. Hermione and Ron left him to tell Aslan the news.

The memories stopped then and there. Harry, snapping back to his senses, journeyed on through the tunnel. He climbed up a flight of stairs. As he did, Harry hoped he could reach his friends in time to find the Emerald Diadem and a way out of the caves.

Chapter 31: 29: Race Against Time

Chapter by Aria Breuer (Aria_Breuer)

Chapter Text

Chapter Twenty-Nine:

Race Against Time

Frodo stopped Merry in his tracks. They had just reached the end of the tunnel. Outside the tunnel was a huge cavern filled with various cells. Keeping watch of the area were scarred lions and lionesses. The two hobbits could also see villains and their minions from the floors above and on the ground.

"Villains," said Frodo. "What are they doing here?"

"I'm guessing they're after the Emerald Diadem, too," said Merry.

In another tunnel, Kovu stopped before the exit. He was followed by Mumble and Gurgi, who noticed the same dilemma.

"Villains," said Gurgi.

"Didn't we leave them at the Merswold Camp?" asked Kovu.

As the rest of the companions stopped at the tunnels they were at – Harry and Edmund reaching Frodo and Merry from the same tunnel – they spotted Melena chasing after a scarred lioness. Once the scarred lions and lionesses were distracted, Frodo led Merry, Harry, and Edmund out of the tunnel. The moment he saw Kovu, Mumble, and Gurgi hiding in their tunnel, Frodo gestured them forward. Kovu checked their surroundings before pressing on, carrying Gurgi and Mumble on his back. Frodo looked back upon seeing Luke and Jack reaching the same tunnel. The two left the tunnel and ran towards the others.

Melena, meanwhile, ended up caught in a corner by the scarred lions and lionesses. Lara-Belle cackled, while Katrina looked on.

"Your feeble attempts have failed, Melena," said Lara-Belle. "What do you plan on doing now?"

Melena clawed at Lara-Belle. As Melena was pinned to the floor, Katrina noticed a group of heroes heading down the hallway. Climbing up onto the second floor above, Katrina ran after the group. Just as they found a tunnel, Frodo looked up and saw Katrina watching them.

"Coral, what have you done?" asked Frodo.

Katrina could have gotten the heroes then and there. She could have alerted the villains. But as she locked eyes with Frodo, something told her to let him and his friends go. She sneered before retreating the other way. Frodo, feeling relieved, wandered off into the next tunnel. As Katrina returned to Melena, Lara-Belle waited for news.

"Well, sister. What news have you brought me?" asked Lara-Belle, curious.

Melena looked at both her sisters with concerned eyes. Katrina lied, "There were only a few birds flittering. I let them go."

"Why didn't you attack them? It's a waste of a good meal," said Lara-Belle, confused.

Creeper announced, troubled, "Lara-Belle, Katrina, the heroes… they've escaped. They're heading down one of the tunnels right now."

"Sound the alarm. Don't let them escape. And send for Voldemort as well," ordered Sauron.

Lara-Belle glared at her sister Katrina. "Just a few birds, eh?"

"You don't have to attack them," said Katrina.

"You know, Katrina, this is exactly how you ended up being with the heroes in the first place. The only good hero is a dead one," said Lara-Belle. She ordered the scarred lions and lionesses forward.

Melena told Katrina in surprise, "Coral, why did you do that?"

"Oh, don't look at me like that. I haven't forgotten Frodo has always been kind. It was simply to return the favor," said Katrina.

Melena admitted, "Maybe you are a hero after all. I'm sorry I doubted you."

"Well, I'm only helping you this once. Go and find the heroes, before I change my mind," said Katrina.

Melena nodded in agreement. She darted down the hall after the heroes. As she crossed the hall, Melena heard a few grunts and roars coming from a cell. When Melena approached the cell, she looked in surprise to see a muscular built scarred lion. He looked beat up and sore. The scarred lion looked in shock upon seeing Melena.

"Melena, is that you?" asked the scarred lion.

Melena heard a rumbling sound, before moving away from the cell. She hardly heard what the scarred lion said, before fleeing towards the nearest tunnel.

o-o-o

The nine heroes flew down the tunnel. At its end, they came to a dark room. A heavy mist lay on the ground before them. There was no sign of the Emerald Diadem anywhere. The only thing that was in the room was a strange black pedestal. Frodo noticed his sword glow bright green, which gave Frodo a guess that the Emerald Diadem was somewhere in the room.

Jack pulled out his dagger, the same dagger that Aslan gave him. He checked the hole before putting his dagger into the slot. The dagger fit in the hole, causing a slot to open up below. Mumble got off Kovu as he examined the slot. Noticing that it was the same as the pink seashell, Mumble placed the seashell on the slot. The seashell fit, freeing Mumble's flipper and separating it from the seashell. The opening closed. What came up afterwards was another pedestal, only this time revealing a small gold chest.

As Edmund and Frodo approached the chest, Edmund handed the hobbit the gold key. "Here. You should see if it opens."

Frodo took the key from Edmund's hand. As he fitted the key into the lock, Frodo noticed the key turned, unlocking the chest. The other heroes gathered around the two as Frodo opened the chest, revealing a diadem with emerald gemstones. Luke kept watch next to Kovu and Gurgi. Just as Frodo picked up the diadem, he heard a familiar voice cry:

"So, you came at last." The figure that carried the voice came out from the shadows. Frodo recognized her at once as Melissa. "I wondered when you would get here."

Melena cried, upon entering the room. "Melissa betrayed us. All she wants is the Emerald Diadem."

"Why did Aslan send us to find this?" asked Frodo.

Melissa clicked her tongue. "Pity. Didn't Aslan tell you? The Emerald Diadem can allow the traveler to go back in time, or give the bearer wishes. It would be a shame to waste such power."

"We're not after power, Melissa," said Merry. "Why did you betray us?"

"Always with the questions, isn't it? Why did I come along in the first place? Well, it would seem obvious. I wanted to see the Emerald Diadem for myself, and I did thanks to you," said Melissa.

"So you lied?" asked Jack. "That's good. May I use that?"

Melissa smirked. "You may get your chance, Jack Sparrow. I'm rather taken to pirates and dwarves."

"You don't have to listen to her!" cried Mumble.

Melissa growled. "I don't have time to listen to you, penguin."

"It doesn't matter, because you're not getting this crown, Melissa," said Frodo.

"Oh really?" asked Melissa. She picked up the diadem. As she examined the crown, Melissa said, "It is beautiful, isn't it? Imagine what could be accomplished with such power."

"Melissa, you're mad. Who knows what might happen if that power ended up in the wrong hands," said Frodo.

Merry extended a hand. "Please Melissa. See reason. Don't do this."

Melissa sneered at the two hobbits. "No! You think I would fall for that? Ha! You're even weaker than I thought."

"What about our daughter? She's going to wonder what became of her mother," said Merry. "Please see past this. Help us raise our daughter. Please."

Melissa grunted. "You think I care what fate befalls my daughter? Please. Who had the heart to care about me?" She shook her head. "No hobbits. This time I will have a chance to be respected. This crown will give me everything I need. Who needs heroes when you have power?"

Just then, a voice spoke in Harry's ear, "You know what spell to use, Harry. Melissa betrayed you. She deserves it." The voice, belonging to Voldemort, told hi, "Do it! Just one spell and it'll be over." Harry looked around, pointing his wand at Voldemort who only laughed.

Sauron approached Frodo, telling him in his ear. "Melissa may have the crown, but you can take it from her. Know what real power feels like. It is so close. All you have to do is take down Melissa. Do it!" Just as Frodo looked back, Sauron was now standing next to Voldemort.

"They're so weak. So vulnerable," said Voldemort.

Frodo called Melissa, "Melissa, hand over the Emerald Diadem. Do the right thing."

"No, hand it over to us," said Maleficent.

The heroes, while Frodo and Merry stood watching Melissa, gathered in a circle, readying their weapons. More villains entered the room, along with their minions. Melissa stood in an indecisive move. Should she hand the Emerald Diadem to Frodo, or to the villains? Either way didn't sound good to her. Melissa's hesitation was enough for Frodo to grab the Emerald Diadem.

"Now!" called Harry.

In one sweeping move, the heroes attacked the villains. Merry watched helplessly, while attacking a villains' minion, as Frodo struggled with Melissa over the Emerald Diadem. Eventually, Frodo pulled the crown from Melissa's grasp. As he did so, Frodo thought back to the past when Bilbo had the Ring, yet did his best to avoid talking about it. This one thought caused a bright light to occur, as Frodo crashed to the stone, cold floor.

Chapter 32: 30: Moments Past

Chapter by Aria Breuer (Aria_Breuer)

Chapter Text

Chapter Thirty:

Moments Past

Frodo awoke in a dazed state. He closed his eyes again the second he saw sunlight. Opening his eyes at last, Frodo sat up slowly. Looking at his surroundings, Frodo saw he was on a desert. As he stood up, Frodo tumbled backwards across the sand. He landed on the floor, breathing in sand. Once he coughed and cleared his airway, Frodo looked around again, asking:

"Where am I?"

Frodo stood up again. Looking around, Frodo eventually saw what appeared to be a city. Ships were flying in and out of the city as well. He grabbed the silver flask and drank its cool liquid before pressing on. Climbing up the sandy hill, Frodo grabbed the Emerald Diadem from the ground.

In minutes, he arrived in the port city. Strange creatures and humans were walking and talking in cooperative unison. He thought for a moment that he was dreaming, but found he wasn't. He spotted a boy with blonde hair and wearing slave's clothing. Figuring the boy was friendly, Frodo approached him. The boy stopped his conversation with his friends as he turned his attention to the hobbit.

"Excuse me. You wouldn't know where I am?" asked Frodo.

"You're on Tatooine, in Mos Espa," said the boy. Noticing Frodo's confusion, the boy added, "I'm Anakin, by the way."

"Anakin?" asked Frodo.

"Yup, that's me," said the boy.

"You wouldn't be Anakin Skywalker, by any chance?" asked Frodo, guessing he was somewhere in the past.

The boy looked stunned. "How do you know who I am?"

"It's just a guess. I heard of you from travelers," said Frodo.

"Oh, you must have heard some of the other slaves talking," said Anakin.

"I guess," said Frodo.

After his friend left him, Anakin returned his gaze to the hobbit. "What are you?"

"I'm a hobbit," said Frodo.

"I've never heard of a hobbit. I'm guessing they're just as small as Jawas," said Anakin.

"Maybe," said Frodo, unsure what he meant. "I'm not from this world."

Anakin was interested then. "I figured you were an outsider. Why did you decide to talk to me?"

"Well, you seem friendly. I guess I just needed to find a friend," said Frodo.

"Well, you've found one," said Anakin.

The images flashed before his eyes. One moment he was starting a conversation. The next, Anakin was showing him to his mother's house, where Frodo was introduced to C-3PO. Anakin also showed Frodo his pod for the podraces, but told Frodo he was keeping that particular pod a secret. A white light blurred his vision as the images passed across his vision.

Then the white light vanished in an instant.

Frodo saw he was now on a grassy area. A massive cliff-face stood in the distance. Before him stood Aslan, a brown bear, a tiger, and a large hare. Frodo wanted to say something, but let the thought go. He overheard the animals talk, aloud and freely.

"Good. We begin construction here," said Aslan.

"Aslan, I don't think here means these grasslands," said the hare.

"No indeed, Shrewhare. What I mean is we begin construction over at that cliff face," said Aslan. "It shall be a magnificent sight for heroes of all shapes and sizes."

"What do the bears get from this?" asked the brown bear in a deep voice.

"You will be in charge of keeping the animals at peace. That is the task I am giving to the talking bears that live at Peradus," said Aslan.

"And the tigers?" asked the tiger, curious.

"You will be the guardians of the talking animals that live here, you and your species," said Aslan.

Shrewhare murmured, upon seeing Frodo, "Aslan, we're not alone."

Aslan understood. "It seems we're not." He turned to Frodo as more images passed across Frodo's vision. "Welcome Frodo. I've been expecting you."

From those images, Frodo saw Aslan introduce him to the campsite the heroes were currently residing. The animals seemed to be at peace with the people. As they spoke, Frodo clutched onto the Emerald Diadem. A white light passed through Frodo's vision. Before Aslan had the chance to ask Frodo about the diadem, Frodo only let out these words:

"I was told by you to find the Emerald Diadem. I'm not sure what it means. All I know is…" He faltered when the white light surrounded him, taking him away from the area.

When the white light stopped, Frodo found he was outside the Party field in the Shire. The Party Tree was still there. It was night and Gandalf was shooting off fireworks. Frodo saw himself, as himself from the past glanced once at him. Due to that glance, Frodo darted towards the lake. He looked back, only to see his past self was busy talking to the guests, and then to Bilbo. He checked his hand, but saw in relief the Emerald Diadem was present. He glanced up as he saw his uncle enjoying the party. Before he could move from the bushes, a voice told him:

"You can't interfere. Terrible things would happen if you did."

"What do you know of terrible things?" asked Frodo, glum.

"Just as you don't know what future lies in store for you. How's your sword?" asked the voice, which turned out to belong to Ronnie Buckley.

"It's glowing," said Frodo. He looked at Ronnie then, "Ronnie, what are you doing here?"

Ronnie shushed him. "Malinda's fine. Rosie's taking care of her."

Frodo said in relief, "I'm glad she is. But what are you doing here?"

"I came to help you. Wherever the Emerald Diadem is taking you, hopefully it stops at some point. If not, you'll have to release it," said Ronnie.

"What happens if I do that?" asked Frodo, confused.

"I don't know. It's just dangerous carrying around that power. You could always make a wish," said Ronnie. He told Frodo last, "Well, I should leave and so should you. I'll see you when you get back to the Animal Headquarters."

Before Frodo had a chance to speak, Ronnie vanished through a silvery portal. Frodo looked back at the party as Gandalf lit the dragon firework. Frodo's vision changed, to reveal Bilbo giving his speech and vanishing at the end. The white light passed through his vision, surrounding him.

The white light vanished moments later.

Frodo found he was inside the Animal Headquarters. The room ahead was a control room, with several screens and keyboards against an outer wall and an inner wall. Frodo made his way through the control room, only to come across what appeared to be a giant holographic image of a globe. Melissa was in the room, but so were a few others, including Aslan.

"If the seer was correct, the girl from the prophecy should be coming around the time that Frodo Baggins enters the limbo world," said Melissa. "How will we know when that time comes and who she will be with?" Melissa sounded more intelligent at this point.

"Relax. The girl will reveal herself in due time," said Aslan.

"Yes, but to whom will this girl come from?" asked Melissa, confused.

"You question this, Melissa. Surely you know already who it will be that gives birth to the girl," said Aslan.

Melissa grunted. "What? You think I'll be the one to give birth to the child. The child of the prophecy who falls in love with Baggins? How can that be so?"

"It would certainly leave you on a list," said Nash, as he worked the controls.

"As if you would know," said Melissa.

"How we know is not important. The question is will you be willing to give up your child, so fate can take its course," said Aslan.

"But I'm a fan of Frodo Baggins. How is it I'm destined to give birth to his lover? His true love? Surely there must be a mistake," said Melissa.

"It won't be and you will need to be prepared," said Aslan. "The time will be close. A year after the One Ring is destroyed, Frodo will be needed. He will need to protect the child and help raise her, if he wishes to become important to her. We'll need them both."

As Aslan turned his gaze to Frodo, Frodo saw images once again. The images led to another white light pass over his vision. Once he was surrounded by the white light, Frodo looked down. The Emerald Diadem was glowing bright green.

Frodo cried: "Stop!"

The white light vanished. Frodo was near a campsite, only he learned it belonged to the villains. As Frodo made his way through the camp, hoping not to be seen, he was spotted by Maleficent. The witch caught up to the hobbit, grabbing him by the shoulder.

"Anyone who crosses this campsite must be willing to pay a toll. You're a newcomer to this camp," said Maleficent.

"I'm sorry, but I don't pay any villain," said Frodo.

"A hero, and might I ask for your name," said Maleficent.

Frodo realized he was still in the past. "I'm Frodo Baggins, the Ring-bearer that destroyed Sauron's Ring."

"Impossible. The One Ring is not destroyed. No one has seen that Ring for an Age," said Maleficent. "If you wish to challenge me, shall we do it outside this camp?"

"I don't wish to challenge anyone," said Frodo.

Maleficent cackled, before grabbing Frodo's shoulder. "I wasn't asking. Surely a hero such as you is brave enough to challenge me." Once they arrived in the grasslands, Maleficent shoved Frodo forward. He toppled over. After checking his shoulder, which burned in pain, Frodo stood up. Maleficent said, "You're a might resilient hobbit, but you'll soon learn respect."

As Maleficent shot a spell at Frodo, Frodo instinctively pulled the sword Finder from its sheath. He quickly blocked the spell, while the sword began to glow a bright green. Frodo looked at the sword in awe until the spell broke. Maleficent shot another spell, but once again Frodo's sword blocked the spell from hitting him. Maleficent looked stunned at him, before asking:

"What is the name of your magnificent sword?" asked Maleficent, stunned.

Frodo told her, "It's called Seeker."

"Your move, hobbit, or are you afraid to face me?" asked Maleficent, taunting him.

The next he knew, everything happened in a flash: Frodo fought Maleficent as he dodged her spells. Staff and sword clashed, sending the two into a fierce combat. Where Maleficent jabbed, Frodo stabbed. At one point, Frodo was forced to the ground. Just when Maleficent had him, a great roar bellowed across the land. Aslan appeared with Gandalf at his side. Maleficent fled as the two approached Frodo. As Gandalf helped Frodo to his feet, Aslan said to the hobbit:

"I have been watching you. It looks like you've made history of your own," said Aslan.

"We need to talk, Aslan," said Frodo. "I'm afraid there are things you haven't been telling me."

"That I do, but may we discuss them elsewhere," said Aslan.

"Where are we going?" asked Frodo, noticing the Emerald Diadem was dim.

"To the Undying Lands, in the present," said Gandalf. "There are things even you need to be told. You are ready to hear them."

Aslan blew at the air, causing a tree to move its trunk. Revealed before them was a gap in the tree. Frodo waited until Gandalf nodded before he made his way to the tree. Frodo vanished in plain sight. Gandalf followed him with Aslan next. The tree moved back to its first position.

Chapter 33: 31: The High Council

Chapter by Aria Breuer (Aria_Breuer)

Chapter Text

Chapter Thirty-One:

The High Council

Frodo waited in a stone gazebo. Upon entering Valinor, Frodo felt the need to stay there, yet he was healing and longed to return home. He wondered what would happen if he did return home, after all he had seen and been through. He knew then that he could survive any quest he was put through. Now if only he was prepared to meet all those of greater powers, those that devoted their lives to peace and true freedom.

Seeing Valinor for the first time amazed him. He had come by silvery portal with Gandalf, who was still Gandalf the White. Aslan came afterwards and told Frodo to wait until he was called. They had arrived at the village of Vallüs, very near to the home of Mother Nature. Before Frodo had the chance to seek her house, Gandalf brought the hobbit to a stone gazebo. There, Frodo was told to wait until Aslan or he returned. Then he was left alone.

Frodo watched as elven children played in the village. He watched them in wonder, but also wondered when he would ever have children of his own. He knew there wasn't any hobbitess in the Shire that would have him, as his journey made him even odder. He wondered if he would ever be happy in the Shire. Then he thought of the girl named Malinda, his young cousin. He sensed she was the girl from his dreams, but what lay ahead for her remained to be seen. Though he thought better of it, somehow he couldn't keep his mind off of her. There was something about her he liked, but what that was remained a mystery. He wondered…

"Frodo, it's time," said Gandalf.

Frodo stood up. He looked on at the village for the last time, seeing the elven children collected by their parents. Once he was ready, after being called again by Gandalf, Frodo met up with the wizard. Together, he and Gandalf traveled by silver portal to what appeared to be a tower in the clouds. The tower was open, and had a courtyard in its center. As Frodo began to climb, he noticed they were climbing up in the clouds. Gandalf stopped Frodo near the doorway, where he left the hobbit to speak with Aslan. Aslan turned his gaze to Frodo and said:

"Frodo, you may come forward," said Aslan.

Entering the stone courtyard, Frodo saw there were many chairs. Seated in those chairs were beings who Frodo assumed were Valar and Maiar. He bowed before them in a manner of respect, which the beings looked slightly amused. Gandalf sat down at one of the chairs, while Aslan made his way to the right-hand side of the area.

Aslan told those assembled, "Welcome all. You have arrived at an important state. The girl from the prophecy has been born. She is now two years old."

"And yet she is kept under close watch. We have been observing her, and so far she has proven herself innocent," said one of the Valar.

"Yes, that is true Manwë," said Aslan. "Now that the girl is born, what can we do?"

"We will continue to keep watch of her, but I sense this is not the only thing you ask," said another Valar, whose name was Varda.

"No. I have more to say," said Aslan.

"The prophecy states that when the time is ready, the girl will come forth and present herself. She will be a great protector someday," said Ulmo, another Valar.

"This may be true indeed, but…"

"We can only wait until the time is ripe," said Tulkas, another Valar.

"Can I say something? For I have seen it in a dream," said Irmo, yet another Valar. He explained, "In the dream, the girl was there, for her eyes were green, not blue-green although they changed in such a way that was natural." He demonstrated how the eyes outer iris sometimes moved inwards, making it seem a different color.

Aslan told him, "Go on. Tell us your dream, Irmo."

"Right," said Irmo. He went on, explaining, "In the dream, the girl was staring at palantir. She looked at the Halfling who would become the Ring-bearer. She always seemed to be watching him, as if waiting for him to rescue her. The dream changed to the two united and talking, just talking. The Ring-bearer seemed intrigued by her, having had conversations before with her. There was a conversation about a book that held the truth of everything, and Adam and Eve. The dream ended with them saying goodbye to each other, and the Halfling leaving the girl in a white tower, where he would come back to her." He then said last, "For all I know, it could be a mere coincidence."

"She's my cousin," said Frodo, aloud. He hesitated, and then apologized, "I'm sorry, but…"

"No, go on. Tell us what you were about to say, Frodo," said Aslan.

Frodo admitted, "I've been having these dreams of her as well. I hardly expected she would be my cousin, but a lover? That's going too far. I'm regretting that, should it ever happen. It's almost forbidden."

Aslan shook his head. "No, it's not forbidden, Frodo. You can love anyone in different ways. This is merely what the prophecy said about you two."

"But to stop all evil? Such a thing is not possible," said Frodo.

"You don't know that, Frodo. Anything is possible, yet there are some things even the wise cannot see," said Aslan, nearly quoting Gandalf. "Where you go from here remains a mystery."

Frodo clutched the Emerald Diadem in his hand. "I have to go back, don't I?"

"Not yet. You need to speak with Mother Nature, before you leave. You have something to give to her," said Aslan.

Frodo pulled out from his pocket a silver ring. "You gave this to me, Aslan."

"And it will be your task to give the ring back to Mother Nature. She will need it, Frodo," said Aslan.

"Yes, but if it is true and this hobbit can save us all from evil, then we are in dire circ*mstances," said a deep voice, coming from a second lion. The lion came out from a bright light.

Aslan greeted the lion, "Mufasa, so you have come at last."

"I couldn't miss this meeting," said Mufasa.

"You're Simba's father," said Frodo, awed.

"He told you about me, did he?" asked Mufasa. Turning to Aslan, Mufasa asked, "How much have I missed?"

"We were discussing the prophecy, Mufasa. The one that states two hobbits will defeat all evil," said Aslan.

Frodo spoke, "Look, I'm sure many of you think I'm the one who should stop all evil. But where do I begin? I'm just a hobbit. I'm not a hero. I failed in my first quest, yet I succeeded in my other quests. The first quest will still haunt me, even though I know it's over. What can I do to stop the villains? I'm not powerful. I'm not a good fighter. I can't even be in a crowd without everyone knowing I'm odd, different. I don't fit in with the popular crowds."

"This isn't about popularity, Frodo," said Manwë.

"I know it isn't, but… you can't expect me to perform this task. How can I defeat the villains? I don't know where to start," asked Frodo.

"What about when you attacked Maleficent? You showed promise there," said Melian, a Maia.

"That was merely luck. I'm not sure what happened," said Frodo. "Look, I know we're talking about Malinda, but I don't know how she'll be growing up, or what she'll say."

"Search your heart, Frodo. You will know and understand," said Gandalf.

The council spoke on about the girl from the prophecy. Frodo listened intently as he understood what he would have to do, which was protect her from anything or anyone that was bad. He wasn't sure he was up to the task ahead. The meeting finished in due time. Frodo returned to Vallüs with Gandalf, where they saw a tall woman with elvish features. She had dark, wavy hair and emerald green eyes. She wore a green dress with golden lace woven around her bodice. Gandalf left Frodo then, leaving Frodo no other choice but to confront the woman. The woman stopped as Frodo approached her.

"Pardon me, but are you Mother Nature?" asked Frodo.

The woman nodded. "I've been waiting for you, Frodo Baggins. It's been a long time."

"We hardly know each other," said Frodo.

Mother Nature told him, "Come to my house. There is much we need to discuss." She led Frodo to an elvish-designed house. After showing Frodo to the parlour, Mother Nature ran into the kitchen. She returned with tea. "Elijah Molvaro was here. We had a conversation about you."

"Why am I not surprised? Elijah came here?" asked Frodo, speaking two questions at once.

Mother Nature laughed merrily. "Yes. He's a friend of yours, I take it."

"I haven't seen Elijah in twenty-six years," said Frodo, admitting freely.

"When he shows up, give him my condolences," said Mother Nature.

Frodo remembered the silver ring and pulled it out from his pocket. "This belongs to you. Aslan wanted me to give it to you." He set the ring on the table.

Mother Nature picked up the ring. "Thank you." She fitted the ring on her finger. "I had wondered where this ring was." She pulled out a silver key, passing it to Frodo. "Here, in exchange for the ring. You may find it useful as I'm sure you want your old sword back."

"This will bring Sting back?" asked Frodo.

Mother Nature nodded. "The item that you find in the chest in the next room, from where you found the Emerald Diadem, should assist you. But first, I will need to see the sword you carry."

Frodo, reluctant, took the sheath off his belt. He handed the sword Finder to Mother Nature, who studied it carefully.

Mother Nature looked up and asked, "May I keep this sword, until the time is right? You may find another will have need of the sword."

Frodo paused. He then said with great reluctance, "Sure. But how am I supposed to face the villains?"

"You're a brave hobbit. I'm sure you will think of something." Mother Nature then stared at the window. "It's changing out there. All worlds will need a leader, someone who is willing to defend them from evil." She looked at Frodo, who looked saddened, "I know you must think you are not worthy or destined to perform this task, but evil is growing fiercer by the minute. Every second we wait is an advantage to them." She added, "We need you, Frodo Baggins. Every hero needs you. Though you may not see it, in time you will understand. We all have something precious in our lives that need to be protected, no matter how small." She said, "This task has been placed before you. You must be the one to guide us."

"How?" asked Frodo.

"Look inside your heart and you will understand," said Mother Nature. "It's time for you to head back. Just hold onto the Emerald Diadem and think of a destination." She added in recovery, "Oh, and one more thing: destroy the Emerald Diadem. There should be a tool in the room that gives you that chance."

Frodo nodded. "I will and thank you." Holding onto the Emerald Diadem, Frodo closed his eyes. In a flash of light, he was gone.

Chapter 34: 32: Crossing a Bridge

Chapter by Aria Breuer (Aria_Breuer)

Chapter Text

Chapter Thirty-Two:

Crossing a Bridge

"Frodo? Frodo!" called a voice, beckoning him back.

Frodo awoke, finding he was on the stony ground. He was back in the cave, the gold chest still on the pedestal. In his hands was the Emerald Diadem, but also the silver key. The sword Finder was missing, but Frodo remembered who had it.

"Where's my sword? Where's Sting?" asked Frodo.

Frodo dropped the Emerald Diadem as he approached Harry, who pulled out from his satchel Sting's hilt. Frodo grabbed the hilt and darted off into an antechamber. In an adjacent room, Frodo found what appeared to be a case bent over. Finding the lock, Frodo fitted the silver key. The key turned, unlocking the case. Inside, Frodo found a few items: a wand, a blacksmith's hammer, and a fang. He looked around until he found an anvil, and then pounded the sword's blade with the hammer. Already, the sword began to glow as pieces that were lost returned to the sword, mending and repairing it. Before he could continue his work, he heard Melissa's voice cry:

"I wish to have eleven wishes!"

"Oh no," said Frodo, dropping the hammer.

Leaving the wand and hammer, Frodo grabbed the fang and left the room. Returning to the other room with the broken sword, Frodo heard Melissa say next:

"I wish Sting would repair itself, becoming a stronger sword capable of defeating villains."

Just as Melissa said those words, Frodo was forced to release Sting. He snatched the Emerald Diadem from Melissa's hand. Placing the diadem on the ground, Frodo jabbed it with the fang. He released his grip on the diadem, just as a bright explosion came from the crown. Frodo and his companions were thrown backwards, but so were the villains.

Recovering from the blow, Frodo looked up at his sword, which stopped repairing itself. The sword landed on the floor with a dullclank. Frodo grabbed his sword, just as Luke was forced to the ground. Pulling out his lightsaber, Luke fought against Darth Vader. Jareth looked up, as did many villains when they saw the Emerald Diadem was now a dull, lifeless rubble. Jadis watched Edmund with a fierce gaze.

Jadis told Maleficent, "I think it's time we attack these heroes for good."

"I agree," said Maleficent. "Starting now!"

As Maleficent jutted a spell at Frodo's direction, Frodo deflected the spell with his sword. To his amazement, Sting did not break. As more spells came, Frodo's sword Sting was able to deflect every single one. Harry ran into the opposing room and grabbed the wand. He aimed it at the Emerald Diadem, causing the diadem to react. The crown floated into the air. Cackling voices came from the diadem. Edmund grabbed the hammer and tossed it to Frodo, who caught it. He ran towards the diadem and hit it with the hammer. The blow caused the diadem to shatter into several pieces, leaving it duller than it had been previously.

An ominous silence entered the room. Edmund told Frodo, "I think it's time we left."

"I think you're right," said Frodo.

"Villains, attack!" called Sauron.

"Harry is mine," said Voldemort.

As the villains and their minions attacked the heroes, Voldemort fed off the villains' energy, making him stronger. Harry shot a spell at Voldemort, as he shot various spells at him. Frodo helped Harry block the spells until he was thrown into the air by a spell. Harry fired a couple of spells, sending them right back at Voldemort.

The Evil Queen joined in the fight, sending off poisoned ball spells at the heroes. Mumble and Gurgi fought hard until Nix and the other all black Emperor Penguins of the Elusive Five caught Mumble off-guard; Gurgi, nervous and unsure what to do, found his courage and boxed the penguins. Mumble looked in amazement at Gurgi, who merely chuckled guiltily.

The scarred lions and lionesses attacked Melena, but were fought by Kovu. When the lion and lioness were backed into a corner, the scarred lion broke out of his cell and charged into the fray, knocking out as many scarred lions and lionesses as they could. Katrina dived into the fight until she saw the look on Melena's face. Katrina was knocked unconscious by one of Jadis' spells.

Just as Frodo recovered from the blow, he heard Jack Sparrow tell the crowd of heroes and villains, "Wait a minute! You lot want to fight them, when really there are a few villains here who want to attack them. Where's the fun in that?" He then suggested, "My suggestion would be to let them fight and the rest of us pull up a few tables, take some wages, relax and enjoy the show."

"And you still have a debt to pay up, Sparrow," said Davy Jones.

"No I don't," said Jack.

"Get them!" cried Maleficent.

Frodo picked up his sword as the villains charged towards the heroes. All eleven companions were forced into the opposing room, where they closed the door and blocked it. The villains pounded against the wood, just as Edmund pushed a table in front of the door.

"Now what do we do?" asked Edmund.

Frodo peered over and saw an opening across the way. He told his companions, "Come on. This way!"

As the companions fled through the opening, some of the villains continued pounding against the door. The rest of the villains fled either by portal or by disapparating. Maleficent knew the heroes wouldn't get away so easily.

o-o-o

The companions, shortly after leaving the caves, found themselves at a hilly, grassy area. Ahead of them was a cliff, leading to a wooden bridge. Frodo led his companions towards the bridge. They stopped as Frodo walked across the bridge. He was stopped in mid-step by the villains, who crossed the bridge on the other side.

Maleficent taunted, "There's no need to be brash, Frodo Baggins. You destroyed our only means of keeping the peace."

"There wouldn't be any peace with you," said Frodo.

"Come on, Frodo. Come back over!" called Melissa.

Frodo held Sting tightly in his hand. He told Maleficent, "And why should I give in to anything you say?"

Sauron moved in front of Maleficent. He answered, "Baggins, it seems we cannot stop meeting each other. But this is the last time we meet under these circ*mstances." He lifted his hand in the air, and then clenched it. To his surprise, he saw nothing happened. "That's impossible."

"Why are you all after me, especially you, Sauron? The One Ring is destroyed," said Frodo.

Sauron cackled. "You see, this time it isn't about my ring. As long as you're alive, you pose a threat to us villains. This I can assure you."

"And you'll be sure not to cross paths with us again, Sauron," said Aslan.

Frodo looked back as Aslan appeared, but so did Peter, Susan, Lucy, Ron, Hermione, and Nash. Sam and Pippin also arrived, looking on at Frodo in concern. Frodo moved off the bridge as Aslan made his way towards it.

"Well, it's about time you lot showed up," said Melissa.

"You will not harm them again," said Aslan.

"Says who? Your words?" asked Sauron, huffing. "Ha! I haven't the strength to listen to you."

"You used to be one of us, Sauron," said Aslan. "Please come back. Make the right choice."

"No!" said Sauron, cringing.

"Then leave these heroes alone," said Aslan.

"And what you think we'll suddenly trust your words?" asked Sauron, mocking.

Aslan roared a great bellow. Feeling the winds changing, the villains retreated across the bridge. Sauron looked last at Aslan, telling him:

"This isn't over. It's far from it. I will have Baggins and his girlfriend. Mark my words," said Sauron, threatening. He then followed the other villains across the bridge.

Once the villains left the area, Lucy said in excitement, "We did it."

"Does this mean they won't return?" asked Frodo.

"No, unfortunately, but today is now good," said Aslan.

"Let's go home," said Nash.

Melissa sighed in relief. "Good. I thought what occurred in the caves was nothing." She noticed Merry's glare and became silenced.

Frodo conversed with Sam, Merry, and Pippin. Before the companions thought of taking the long way back, Aslan decided to use the portals to head straight to the Animal Headquarters. After finding the right portal, Aslan allowed the companions to travel through the portal first, before he himself followed. The portal vanished.

As the villains began to use their own means to return to their camp, Sauron made a clear warning: "Next time, Baggins, I can assure you. I will fight you one day and that day will mean everything to me. Next time and there will be a next time." Then he vanished using one of the darker portals.

Chapter 35: 33: The Coming Future

Chapter by Aria Breuer (Aria_Breuer)

Chapter Text

Chapter Thirty-Three:

The Coming Future

"And so it was the villains were defeated. Peace was brought across the lands. The time of peace had come for those worthy heroes who fought the darkness and restored the light," said Frodo, finishing a storybook.

"Did the hewoes save evewyone?" asked Malinda, looking up at Frodo with curiosity.

"I reckon they did," said Frodo, grinning.

Merry tapped on the door. "Frodo, can I have a word?"

"Excuse me. I won't be long," said Frodo, leaving Malinda with the book.

It had been two weeks since the quest to find the Emerald Diadem. Already, many heroes grew worried about the coming years. The villains were still out there, and very few had been killed in the fighting in the Sheltered Caves. Aslan worked round the clock investigating as much as he could on where the villains might strike next. So far, no reports had come in. Frodo was especially worried, as was Harry. Both Sauron and Voldemort were still alive. What that meant was danger wasn't too far behind. Frodo and his companions stayed at the Animal Headquarters until further notice.

While at the Animal Headquarters, Merry had been cautious of allowing Malinda to be with her mother, Melissa. Ever since the incident in the Sheltered Caves, Merry's trust in Melissa had shaken. Melissa, because of this, chose to spend more time with Nash, which only deepened her detachment from Merry.

Frodo followed Merry out into the living room of Merry's suite. He knew Merry was concerned, but he did not stop him from voicing his thoughts.

"Melissa told me you should stay away from Malinda," said Merry.

Frodo was stunned. "You're not going to listen to her." He added, "Malinda's my cousin."

"I know, Frodo. I'm not going to stop you," said Merry.

"But Melissa would," said Frodo, concerned. "Merry, you can't let her walk all over you."

"What about you?" asked Merry.

"I can take her," said Frodo. "But you've seemed changed since our time in the Sheltered Caves."

"I know, and that's why I've come to a decision," said Merry. "I'm divorcing Melissa."

"Merry…"

"No, don't try and stop me. Melissa's been a burden, ever since we left the caves. I cannot let her see Malinda, nor do I want her to. It's for the best," said Merry.

"Yes, but this is the second time you're divorcing someone you thought you loved," said Frodo.

"But I care about Estella Bolger more than I do Melissa," said Merry. "I hope you understand, cousin."

"Good luck to you," said Frodo. "I think I'll go."

"No, you can stay as long as you need. I'll be back. I'll tell Melissa the news. I'm sure she won't be happy," said Merry, heading for the door.

When Merry left, Frodo returned to Malinda. He pulled another book from the bookshelf and began to read to her. Malinda listened with great interest.

o-o-o

Merry found Melissa in the hallway. Nash was accompanying her. Once Merry caught up to Melissa, he asked her:

"Can we talk in private?" asked Merry.

As soon as Nash left them alone, Melissa asked, curious, "What is it, Merry?"

"I think we should have a divorce," said Merry.

Melissa said, shocked, "What? But why? You don't think, because of what happened in the Sheltered Caves? That was a one-time thing. It won't happen again."

"Look, you may have nine to ten wishes left, for all I care, but that doesn't change…"

"I wish you would listen to me. I wish you would hear me out," said Melissa. She covered her mouth as she saw the wishes worked.

Merry only said, "I'm listening."

Melissa said, "Merry, I'm sorry. The reason is I don't want to lose you again. We may have had some faults, but that shouldn't stop us from being together. It's destiny that we met, I guess. I do… care about Malinda. If you would just give me a chance to see her, maybe we can work something out." She then told him, "All right, it's your turn to speak."

Merry, wondering what had happened, explained, "Melissa, you may think you have a chance to get everything you want. While that may seem great, it's also selfish of you to think only of yourself. Did you care about me at all?"

Melissa hesitated. "I wanted to tell you to begin with. I was a fan of Frodo Baggins…"

"I know that part," said Merry.

"Well, I may care what happens to him. But that doesn't mean I don't care about you, too, Merry," said Melissa.

"You would have chosen Frodo instead of me. Frodo's my cousin, Melissa. And after the behavior you spat towards him, I don't think it's wise that we should be together anymore. I'm divorcing you, Melissa. I hope you heard that properly," said Merry.

"What happened in the Sheltered Caves meant nothing," said Melissa.

Merry stopped her. "You still don't get it. What you did in the caves set my mind in right path. We may have had something together, but whatever it was is gone. I'm leaving you, Melissa, and I'm taking Malinda with me. I'll give her a better life than you could have ever given her."

"Please, just give me another chance," said Melissa.

"No, we're done with that. I'm sorry, but this is what must happen," said Merry.

Before Melissa could say another word, Merry walked away back to the suite. Nash moved away from the wall, approaching Melissa.

"You have a jealous heart, Melissa," said Nash.

"How long were you standing there?" asked Melissa.

"Long enough. I know Merry cares more about his daughter than he does you," said Nash. "I had hoped you would look around and see that someone does care about you."

"Oh really?" asked Melissa, playfully. "You didn't suspect anything between me and Merry?"

"Only that rift between you two. I knew he wasn't the one for you," said Nash. "Come on. I have something to show you." He led Melissa down the hallway.

Later that afternoon, Harry met with Edmund and Frodo in one of the smaller meeting rooms. Melena arrived bruised and scarred, but also battle-worn. She lied down on the ground floor, while the others talked. Luke had chosen a seat in the front row. Reepicheep also sat in the front row, but a table away from Luke. Aslan was there as well, by the time Melena showed up.

"Sauron's return is one thing, but with Voldemort back… it's hard to imagine what the future will be like," said Harry, concerned. "I'll make sure to warn the Wizardry World of Voldemort's return."

"And the White Witch. Narnia should be noted of her return as well," said Edmund. He turned to Frodo, "What will you do, Frodo?"

"If we're lucky, Sauron won't be a threat to Middle-earth, but evil still lurks across my homeland," said Frodo.

Reepicheep said, "Well, for all we know, the White Witch won't be invading Narnia. No, she's been here in the limbo world, last I recall. I will send out as many mice as I can to investigate the villains and search for any leads."

"That won't be necessary, Reepicheep. The villains' time has passed," said Aslan.

"How can we be sure of that?" asked Frodo, wary.

"The scarred lions and lionesses are relentless, but there are some on our side. I don't know who the scarred lion was that helped us, that day in the Sheltered Caves," said Melena. "I would like to meet him again, learn his name and who he is. He may prove an ally yet."

"Seems the scarred lions and lionesses can change sides," said Frodo.

"Well, we should thank Aslan for getting us out of that scrap," said Edmund.

"We were lucky there," said Harry.

"Yes, but luck does not condone what the villains next move will be. For all I know, we may have started a war that won't end until evil is defeated," said Aslan.

"Melissa did one kind thing: she gave my sword Sting the power to defeat villains," said Frodo. "The sword Finder remains with Mother Nature."

Aslan nodded. "Where it should be, for now."

"Who will win that sword?" asked Frodo, curious.

"When the time comes, you will see," said Aslan.

"More riddles," said Frodo.

"Did you see Voldemort? He was feeding off the energy of other villains, like he was some sort of conductor," said Harry. "That may be his weak spot."

"What can we do now?" Edmund turned Aslan, "Aslan, do you know?"

"Head home," said Luke.

Aslan said, agreeing with Luke, "Luke is right. For the time being, we have peace, but the villains will wait until an unexpected moment comes before setting their next move. For now, I think it's time for you to return home. I'll be unfreezing time in many worlds. You will know when I've frozen time again. Until then, we go our separate ways." Aslan told Frodo, "Frodo, I will speak with you later. I have some training for you."

"What sort of training?" asked Frodo.

"While you are at Middle-earth, a man will come and train you in the art of sword-fighting. This should prove useful, while Malinda grows up. Just in case any villains decide to enter Middle-earth, I want you to be ready to strike them down," said Aslan. "Can you accept these terms?"

Frodo paused for a moment. "I think I can."

"Good," said Aslan. He grinned at the hobbit.

Meanwhile…

Lara-Belle looked on at the sunset with keen eyes. First, she had fought against her sister Katrina. Second, she fought against Melena and lost her. Now, thanks to the actions of the heroes she was in a desperate, feeble state. This made her angry. She considered taking on the name Scar-ra, but wondered if it was time to present herself with that new name. Katrina joined Lara-Belle on the boulder, noticing fast Lara-Belle's glaring expression.

"The heroes are long gone. They shouldn't be a threat to us. What can we do, Lara-Belle?" asked Katrina. "Melena shouldn't bother us anymore."

"Those heroes are something. Always willing to protect those they care about. Makes me sick," said Lara-Belle, spitting on the rock.

"Lara-Belle, are you all right?" asked Katrina, concerned.

"Not Lara-Belle. Not anymore. I'm going by a new name. From now on, you will call me Scar-ra," said Lara-Belle.

"Scar-ra? That sounds like a wicked name," said Katrina.

"Not as wicked as when Thatcher changed his name to Valorian. I trust you had something to do with it," said Scar-ra. She growled as she leaped off the rock. "Come on, Maleficent expects us."

Katrina followed her sister through the campsite. When Scar-ra and Katrina returned inside one of the larger brown tents, they witnessed Maleficent, Darth Vader, and Sauron talking to Emperor Palpatine from a hologram.

"We failed to catch the heroes, mi lord," said Maleficent.

"Allow the heroes this victory," said Emperor Palpatine. He informed Darth Vader, "Darth Vader, return to our galaxy at once. We have other matters to attend to, which involve the Rebellion."

"Yes, my master," said Darth Vader.

"But my lord Sidious, the heroes have escaped our grasps. Surely, we cannot rest until they are dead," said Sauron.

"Patience. Isn't that what your master taught you, Lord Sauron?" asked Emperor Palpatine.

"My master, Morgoth, is in the Void. He will be released, or so I hear," said Sauron. "Then he will attack those who fought against him, which includes the Ring-bearer."

"Then you need only wait until his return," said Emperor Palpatine. He turned to Maleficent. "Maleficent, do you think you can manage from here."

"Yes, mi lord. I can," said Maleficent.

"Good. Then see to it that you watch the heroes carefully. We wait until the girl is grown, before we strike," said Emperor Palpatine. Then his holographic image vanished.

"What is your plan, Maleficent?" asked Sauron.

"I was hoping you had one, Sauron," said Maleficent.

"We attack when I say. I'll find a way to catch those heroes off-balance. You can be assured of that. Get the armies ready to portal jump to another world. We need to wait patiently, as Lord Sidious said," said Sauron, leaving the tent.

Elsewhere…

In the fields, one of the scarred lions returned to Tack and Warley, who were busy eating dried meat for their lunch. The scarred lion reported to the two friends, and to a scarred lioness:

"Word has it Jorgen escaped the villains. He sounded reckless, speaking constantly of Melena. Who is Melena, anyway?" asked the scarred lion.

"An old friend. I thought I had forgotten her and her sisters. I do hope Coral didn't turn," said Tack.

"What if she did?" asked Warley.

"Warley," said the scarred lioness. "Even if she did turn, there is still good in her, as there is with Lara-Belle. They won't betray the heroes for long, this I am sure."

"What do you have? The ability to see the future?" asked Tack. He was impressed. "My, your foresight must be good."

The scarred lioness blushed. "At least there are those of us still loyal to the heroes."

"Keep working! No lazy breaks, you hear me?" called an orc, snapping a whip in the air.

"I guess it's time to head back to work," said Warley.

"Yeah, I think you're right," said Tack. He and the other scarred lions and lioness returned to the field, continuing their digging in the mines.

Chapter 36: 34: Returning Home

Chapter by Aria Breuer (Aria_Breuer)

Chapter Text

Chapter Thirty-Four:

Returning Home

Jack Sparrow traveled by silver portal back to the Shoal Docks. He had already said enough goodbyes to the heroes. Before he left, Jack remembered Frodo telling him:

"You will return someday, won't you Jack?"

"Son, my place is with the sea. Who knows if I will return," answered Jack.

Melissa, however, seemed intrigued by the pirate. She watched him leave with great interest.

Once at the port city, Jack took the familiar route to the docks. There, he saw his ship theBlack Pearlstill docked in the harbor. As he climbed aboard the ship, Jack met up with Mr. Gibbs, who looked pleased to see him.

"Cap'n, we're getting the ship ready to sail. The crew awaits your orders," said Mr. Gibbs.

"Any sign of those no-how villains?" asked Jack.

"None reported, sir," said Mr. Gibbs.

"That's good. Makes it easier for us to leave port," said Jack. As he gave orders to the crew, Jack found his place at the helm of the ship. He hummed the pirate song that was stuck in his head. When thePearlwas ready to set sail, Jack turned the helm. The ship left port and traveled on unknown waters. But Jack didn't mind it. He was just happy to be back at his home: the sea.

Aslan made the declaration clear that all heroes needed to return to their home worlds. On the morning of the last day, Aslan found Frodo in his suite, packing his belongings. Frodo stopped upon seeing Aslan, who entered his suite with candor.

"I know you must think I am being rash giving you instruction for when you return home," said Aslan. "I only hope it's in your best interests."

"Aslan, I know you must think I'm some sort of hero. I assure you I'm trying not to be," said Frodo.

"Frodo, you cannot escape your fate or your destiny. You must be the one to stop all evil," said Aslan. "Only then can I call you a true hero."

"What if I cannot do this?" asked Frodo, concerned. "What if I fail again?"

"You won't, Frodo. Know that," said Aslan.

"How? How do you know?" asked Frodo.

"I just do," said Aslan. "You wonder why you were chosen for this task? Why you were given this chance to defeat all villains, to defeat all evil? Many have come and succeeded in defeating evil, for they knew where there path was. Some gave in and became villains themselves, yet there are always heroes where there is evil. Good will always win against evil, even when most people think evil will survive. Someday, evil will be gone and the light will shine its brightness across all lands. While we cannot escape night, we certainly see its beauty even when others cannot see it. Why you were chosen for this task? Well, you are different, different than others that I have seen in a long time. You will find the way. I know you will."

Frodo was silent, but bowed before the Lion. Aslan bowed in return and then took his leave from the suite. Frodo was left to question all that Aslan had said. He was stunned Aslan had given such a speech, yet it was important. Could he be capable of defeating the villains and all evil? It was a heavy task, yet he wasn't sure if it could be accomplished. Something inside him gave him hope that he could complete the task, but the task seemed like a long road.

o-o-o

Minutes later, Frodo left his suite. He followed the familiar path until he was on the ground floor. There, he witnessed many heroes saying their farewells to the residents living in the Animal Headquarters. Frodo found his way to Luke Skywalker, who was having a conversation with Harry, Ron, and Hermione.

"I'll be leaving soon. I have to find a way to return to my galaxy. Right Artoo," said Luke, looking down at the astromech droid.

R2-D2 gave a series of beeps.

"Don't worry, R2. We'll find our way back to the Rebel fleet," said Luke. He turned his gaze to Frodo. "We always have those conversations to look back on."

"I won't forget you," said Frodo. "I hope you can find a way to defeat Darth Vader."

"Hopefully," said Luke. He embraced the hobbit. After he released him, Luke said his farewells to Harry, Ron, and Hermione. Then Luke walked away with R2-D2 rolling after him.

Harry, once Luke left them, faced Frodo. "Ron, Hermione, and I should leave, too. I think we've been away from the Wizardry World for too long."

"Well, it was nice meeting you, Frodo," said Hermione.

"I'm sorry you three have to leave," said Frodo.

"We'll miss you, mate," said Ron.

Frodo embraced the trio, moments before someone called them about a portal readying to leave. The hobbit released Hermione last. He watched as Harry, Ron, and Hermione traveled through the portal back to the Wizardry World. Frodo looked down at Mumble, who was now with his family. Mumble told the hobbit:

"I have to go, too, but it was nice meeting you," said Mumble. "Even if we do sound alike."

"You were a good penguin to have on those two quests," said Frodo.

"Mumble, we should go," said Gloria.

"Okay, I'll be right there," said Mumble. He watched as Frodo kneeled before him. "What?"

"Just keep your eyes open for any of those Elusive Five penguins. There might be some good in them yet," said Frodo.

"Well, if there is, that good must be hidden somewhere deep inside those penguins' hearts," said Mumble. "I should go."

"I know. Farewell Mumble Happyfeet," said Frodo.

"And to you, Frodo," said Mumble. He waddled away moments later.

Just as Frodo stood up, Gurgi knocked him over. Gurgi embraced the hobbit, telling him, "Gurgi will miss kind hobbit. Master Baggins, Gurgi doesn't want to leave him!"

Finding a way to release Gurgi's grip on him, Frodo said, while chuckling, "I'll miss you, too, Gurgi. Get off me."

Gurgi jumped up and down, moments before he was called by Melena. "Gurgi should go."

"All right, go then Gurgi!" said Frodo. He saw Gurgi speed off towards the lioness, who led the furry grey-and-white creature over to a portal.

After talking with their brother and sister, moments before Peter and Susan left via portal, Lucy ran up to Frodo with Edmund following. Lucy told Frodo in excitement:

"Frodo, would you like to see Aslan's country? We're accompanying Reepicheep," said Lucy.

"You mean in Narnia? I've never been there," said Frodo.

"All the more reason," said Edmund. "Peter and Susan are returning home."

"Could you both excuse me?" asked Frodo, as he saw Kovu with his family. Frodo caught up to him, asking him, "You're leaving, too?"

Melena said, "I told you, you should have left sooner."

"Yes, I am. We need to return to the Pridelands to warn them about Scar's return," said Kovu. "We'll see you again, maybe in another life."

"Good luck out there," said Frodo.

"Same to you, Frodo. Same to you," said Kovu.

After seeing Kovu leaving with his family and friends, via portal, Frodo returned to Edmund and Lucy. He told them his answer, "All right, I'll come."

"Mr. Frodo, we have to return home," said Sam. "I couldn't help overhearing."

"Sam, you go on ahead. I'll meet you in the Shire," said Frodo.

"Are you sure, Mr. Frodo?" asked Sam.

"I'm positive," said Frodo.

Lucy said, glancing from Edmund to Frodo, "Well, in that case, we'd better get ready for the trip."

Aslan told Frodo, "I'll get your things ready to travel back to the Shire. You should find them there."

"Thank you, Aslan," said Frodo.

Frodo spent his last night at the Animal Headquarters. Nearly all the heroes had left, but some decided to stay for that same night, deciding to leave the very next morning. Later that evening, Frodo had another strange dream:

He was on the island again. The white tower was near his grasp. He climbed higher up the stairs until he reached the door. But something told him not to open it.

"Why do you run?" called a feminine voice. "Why do you run?"

The doors opened to reveal Maia wearing her red-robed dress. Frodo approached her as Maia walked down an aisle. He saw him at the end of the aisle. It looked like he was wedding the young girl… or was it woman? He didn't know which.

"Why do you run, Frodo Baggins?" asked Maia, who was standing behind him. She made her way to stand beside him. "There's already so much you could do. You don't have to travel to these lands."

"So this is my future?" asked Frodo, curious.

"No, and yes, but not here. Your future is on a different path than to travel to Tol Eressëa. Your wounds have healed, haven't they?" asked Maia. "Aslan did his work well."

"What can I do? I could barely find healing at home," said Frodo.

"Trust your instincts. Trust your heart. You may find what you need there," said Maia. "It's what I should have done in the first place."

"Why do you act so sore?" asked Frodo, confused.

"It's a long story," said Maia. "But where will yours travel? I wonder…"

Frodo awoke, slightly dazed. The dream felt so real to him. He looked out the window, and saw the sunrise. Getting dressed, Frodo made his way out of the suite. He found Edmund and Lucy downstairs with Eustace and Reepicheep. When they were ready to travel, Aslan showed them the way. Frodo followed the four through a portal, which led to a ship. Frodo was confused when he arrived aboard the ship.

"Does anyone know where we are?" asked Frodo.

"You're on the Dawn Treader. Finest ship in Narnia," said a minotaur.

As the five looked out, they saw white flowers covering a part of the water. Beyond that was an island, leading to Aslan's country. King Caspian readied a boat for them. Frodo got into the boat, as did Edmund, Lucy, Eustace, and Reepicheep. Together Edmund and Caspian rowed the boat across the water. Frodo felt at peace for the first time in years.

When they arrived on the shore, the group was met by Aslan. Aslan showed the group the waterfall, rising up to reveal a vast country above. Aslan told the group they could not return once they crossed into his country. Although Caspian did not make the journey, promising to serve Narnia better as a king, Reepicheep decided to take the opportunity. He was met by sad looks from all the humans, yet it was joyful tears. After Lucy embraced Reepicheep, Frodo approached the mouse and knelt before him.

"You were good to us, Reep. I hope there's a chance to see you again," said Frodo, choking back tears.

"You're a good friend, Master Baggins. I'm sure we will meet again," said Reepicheep.

Frodo nodded, before getting up from the ground. Then it was Eustace's turn. It was a sad farewell for Eustace, who shed tears. Reepicheep gave a kind goodbye to him. Once all the goodbyes were said towards Reepicheep, Reepicheep headed towards a boat set just for him. He dropped his sword on the shore before climbing into the boat and sailing up along the waterfall.

Lucy knew then it was time for her, Edmund, and Eustace to go home. Only Lucy and Edmund wouldn't be returning to Narnia. The three said their goodbyes to Caspian, Frodo, and Aslan. Edmund and Lucy embraced Frodo, just moments before they left. Eustace, when he asked, was told by Aslan that Narnia would have need of him again. Then Edmund, Lucy, and Eustace walked towards the opening in the waterfall. They looked last at the three before the water overtook them.

Caspian turned to Frodo and said, "You know, we never got the chance to get to know one another."

"At least you know who I am now," said Frodo, as the last of his tears streamed down his face.

Aslan told him, "It's time, Frodo."

"I know," said Frodo.

Aslan roared again at the water, causing it to create a fresh opening. Frodo shook hands with Caspian, before heading alone into the water. He looked last at Aslan and Caspian, moments before the water took him.

Frodo swam until he reached the water's surface. Realizing he was back at the Grey Havens, Frodo found the stony dock and climbed onto it. He was surprised when he heard Gandalf's voice:

"Ah, you've come back, Frodo Baggins," said Gandalf. "You're all wet."

Ringing out his jacket, vest, shirt, and breeches, Frodo said in reply, "And you're not."

Gandalf laughed. "It's good to see you back in Middle-earth."

"Same here, Gandalf. Same here," said Frodo, delighted to be back home.

Chapter 37: Epilogue: A Final Act

Chapter by Aria Breuer (Aria_Breuer)

Chapter Text

Epilogue:

A Final Act

A year passed in the Shire. Sam wedded Rosie in May. It was the same year that Sam and Rosie came to live with Frodo. The Gaffer didn't mind, for he was glad Sam found a place to stay after being married. Rosie gave birth to her first child, a girl who Frodo gave Sam the name Elanor.

Also in that year, Frodo worked on his story in the Red Book, the same book Bilbo had given him. He only chronicled his journey to destroy the One Ring, instead of chronicling the adventures he had after the War of the Ring. There were times he felt pain return to his shoulder, his neck, and his heart, but they were in brief amounts. The time the pain returned most was the anniversary of when he received the wounds, but Frodo found he could best the pain by remembering the good times.

In September of that year, Frodo, Sam, Merry, and Pippin met with the Ring-bearers, heading for the Grey Havens. Bilbo Baggins was among them. Bilbo had grown old since his parting with the One Ring. Frodo was glad for Bilbo, for the sailing west might help him live his last days. When they reached the Grey Havens, Gandalf turned to Frodo with a knowing expression. Frodo wondered where Aslan was, for he could sense his presence.

"Frodo, have you decided?" asked Gandalf, concerned.

"I'm staying," said Frodo, admitting freely.

"What? You were planning on leaving us?" asked Sam, concerned.

"I did, for a time, Sam," said Frodo, facing his friend. "Then, thanks to our adventures in the limbo world, I found healing at long last. I'm staying because of Malinda, but not just her. I'm staying until the sea calls me home." He faced Gandalf, "I hope this is all right with you."

Gandalf nodded. "It is, Frodo. May you have good tidings. The villains are still out there, Frodo, but my task is done. I cannot stay, but you may have a chance for more grand adventures. I wish you joy and luck on your coming ventures."

"Thank you, Gandalf," said Frodo, bowing before him.

Merry approached Frodo and said, holding his hand, "I'm glad you decided to stay, cousin. It wouldn't be the same without you."

"I'm sure it wouldn't, cousin," said Frodo. He released his grip on Merry, as Merry clutched his shoulder.

Together, the four hobbits watched as Gandalf and Bilbo entered the elven ship with the other Ring-bearers. Frodo knew, after what Gandalf told him, that Sam was a Ring-bearer, too. Frodo knew this, but decided to wait until they returned home to tell him. As the four hobbits left the Grey Havens, Frodo looked back. He was greeted by the Lion Aslan, who stood at the dock. Aslan bowed before him, showing a kind grin across his face.

"You have come home, Frodo. But for how long remains a mystery," said Aslan.

o-o-o

When they returned to Bag End, Merry embraced his daughter Malinda. Sam approached his wife Rosie and embraced her. Sam looked at his surroundings with good wonder.

"Well, I'm back, as are my friends," said Sam.

Merry said, "And nothing bad happened to us this time."

"I wonder where Aslan was," said Pippin, curious.

Frodo told Sam, "Sam, you're a Ring-bearer, too, which means you'll be able to travel across the Sea as well as I."

"When the time is ripe, Mr. Frodo," said Sam. "But not now."

"I hope you live a long and prosperous life, Sam," said Frodo.

Sam chuckled, "Pardon me, sir, but you sound as if you just left us."

"Perhaps I did," said Frodo. He hardly saw Sam's concerned expression. On the table, he found a note, which read in letter form:

Dear Frodo,

Time grows short in all lands. Malinda and you will be needed. When the time comes, fate will draw you to other worlds. Until that time, take care and know that protection is given. I will meet you in two days' time.

Sincerely,

King Elessar (a.k.a. Aragorn)

"Must be important," Frodo thought.

Frodo looked up at his friends, and then to Malinda. He had a feeling Aslan warned Aragorn of Malinda's coming to Middle-earth. He watched the child as she played with her father, but not before catching Malinda's gaze. While the worlds may be in danger, Frodo was willing to fight the darkness. For now, they were safe, but how long would that last? He hardly knew. But that day was a good day. He had made his decision, but fate always was a fickle thing. There was no telling where his road lied next; he only hoped for the best, no matter where that hope came from.

Chapter 38: Bonus Chapter: Deleted Scene - Chapter 34

Chapter by Aria Breuer (Aria_Breuer)

Chapter Text

DELETED SCENE – CHAPTER 34

Melissa watched from the corridor on the ground floor, as Merry talked with Ronnie and his friends. Malinda was in Merry's hand. Nash approached Melissa, telling her:

"You're going to have to let her go, Melissa," said Nash.

"I can't believe Merry divorced me," said Melissa.

"It was bound to happen," said Nash.

"You're not worried. Not after what he did. We practically divorced during the night. He made me sign those papers," said Melissa.

"It was the right thing to do. You have to let him go. Let them both go," said Nash.

Melissa turned her attention back to Merry, who glanced at her briefly. "Someday I'll find a way to get Malinda back. I'll tell her the truth from my point of view. Hopefully she'll understand. This isn't my fault."

"You can't blame them, Melissa. No one can," said Nash.

"I only hope it isn't too late," said Melissa.

Merry, meantime, talked some more with Ronnie. He repositioned his hands on Malinda, keeping her in his arms safely.

"Are you sure you can't stay?" said Ronnie.

"No, we really should head back to Middle-earth," said Merry.

Ronnie told Malinda, joking, "You are a load of trouble. Don't make things too hard on your father."

"I won't," said Malinda, giggling.

"Merry, we need to go," said Pippin.

"I know," said Merry. He turned to Ronnie, "It was good, us coming here. And I'm glad to have Malinda." He told Malinda, "Or maybe we should call you Maia." He noticed Malinda giggling some more. He told Ronnie last, "Goodbye Ronnie."

"Farewell, Merry," said Ronnie, embracing him.

Merry then followed Pippin, who managed to find Sam. Sam, from the looks of things, was informing Frodo to come back home to Middle-earth. Frodo merely shook him off. Sam regrouped with Merry and Pippin. The two hobbits calmed Sam down, before leading him to a portal, where they vanished, returning home to Middle-earth.