What Dreams May Come 
By Summer 
Feedback: Summersfanfiction@hotmail.com 
Beta read by: Achila 
Sequel to Someone To Watch Over Me 
Class: Slash, PG-13, AU-Movie 
Pairings: Frodo/Sam, Frodo/Aragorn 
Warnings: Mpreg, character death *but in a good way* 
Disclaimer: I don’t own them and I am not making any kind of profit. This is for fun 
and entertainment purposes only. 
 
Summary: Unhappy with the conclusion, ‘Someone To Watch Over Me,’ I came up 
with this as a true ending to my story. 
 
Writers Note: A more in depth storyline as Frodo enters the Halls of Mandos, hoping 
to be reunited with those he loved from the story, "Someone to Watch Over Me". 
Tolkien did not write much about the Halls of Mandos that I know of but, being a 
Mythology expert, I would think it was a bit like the Greek Mythology, the Halls of 
Mandos being somewhat like the Underworld, and Hades as Mandos. 
 
Part One 
 
It was dark, and he was cold. That can’t be right. He was dead. He could understand 
the darkness, but not the cold. 
 
Though he was sure his eyes were open, all he could see around him was darkness. So 
this was how it was, this was to be his reward for claiming the One Ring. It is what he 
deserved, but Frodo had hoped the time he had spent in Valinor with Sam would 
lesson the ordeal. 
 
Frodo called out into the darkness, hoping that somewhere beyond the layers of the 
night, a familiar voice would call out to him. A voice that would be his light in this 
eternal darkness. But all he heard was silence. 
 
He fell to his knees then, and curling himself up into the smallest ball he could, he 
wept softly. He wished for at least a small candle to hold back the weight of this 
hellish nightmare he was going to have to endure for all eternity. 
 
So lost in his own fear and grief, Frodo was not aware of the coming of footsteps at 
first until he heard a voice shout at him. 
 
“Stand up there! What are you doing just lagging about? Don’t you know we must 
get to the ferry?! Justice has been cast and you cannot hide here!” 
 
A large hand roughly pulled him to his feet, and Frodo looked up to see a dark 
mysterious man staring down at him. Glancing past the man, Frodo could see nearly a 
half dozen people standing behind him. Two were Orcs and at least four were Human 
and they all looked unsavory and dangerous. 
 
Shivering in fright, Frodo looked back up at the man, trying to form words, only to 
get a rough slap across his face. 
 
“Stop that! Your tears won’t help you now! Come! Fall back in line. Now, or I shall 
give you a taste of my whip!” 
 
Seeing the fearsome weapon and hearing the sadistic chuckle come from the others, 
Frodo did as he was ordered. 
 
And so they marched. Frodo took up the rear, following with his head down and his 
tears falling bitterly. 
 
*How could this be? How could he weep and be so cold and scared when he was 
dead? Where was Sam? Where was he being taken? Of what justice did the 
mysterious man speak? What were they going to do to him?* 
 
Shaking uncontrollably, Frodo continued to follow the men and the Orcs as they soon 
entered a dark tunnel guarded by two stone statues that appeared to be dragons. 
 
A greenish light seemed to emanate from all around the walls and led them in a 
downwards path. The sound of water was heard and when Frodo rounded the corner 
of the cave, he stopped in his tracks to see that a small river was before them. Its 
waters were black as the tunnels themselves and appeared to be devoid of life. At the 
river bank was a small ferry and there, waiting, was a bent old man with a staff and 
lantern. At first, Frodo thought it might be Gandalf, but seeing no beard and that he 
was bald, Frodo felt his hopes crumble. 
 
Weeping even harder now, Frodo tried to see where he was going as the mysterious 
guide led them towards the ferry, only to stumble several times on the small, sharp 
rocks on the ground. Frodo half listened as the ferryman ordered his passengers to 
pay him for their passage on his boat. Each man handed the old man a gold coin and 
the Orcs handed over a silver one. Frodo stepped forward and then stopped, unable 
to take another step. 
 
“Well, come on! I must be paid for my hard work to-” The old man paused and made 
a somewhat disgruntled huff as he peered down at the small form. “What is this? 
What is this you bring here to me, Grim?” 
 
“Oh, Patter, this must have been a stray from Solen’s group. I picked him up at the 
Four Corners.” 
 
“No, you dolt! You imbecile, what have you done!” 
 
As the man brought the lantern closer, Frodo fearfully wiped at his eyes and 
continued to tremble, wondering what fate was in store for him now. 
 
A hand reached out and gently tipped the Hobbit's head up and Frodo was forced to 
allow the old man to have a good look at him. 
 
“This is not a murderous, treacherous Human. Nor a filthy Orc. This is a halfling, a 
Hobbit, I should gather, unless my eyes are deceiving me.” 
 
“What difference does it make? He has been judged and must be brought to his 
proper place.” 
 
The old man stared up at the mysterious man called Grim and nearly growled in 
annoyance. 
 
“You Fool! He hasn’t even been judged yet -- look he has not been marked!” 
 
The old man pointed at Frodo’s forehead; it was then that Frodo glanced at the others 
on the boat and saw that each of them wore a red mark shaped like a letter J on their 
forehead. 
 
“Who are you, little one? Come on now, speak.” 
 
Frodo looked up at his annoyed face, and more tears fell from his eyes. 
 
Frowning, Grim reached over to force the creature to talk, but Patter pushed him 
away from the Hobbit and gasped as he spotted something. 
 
He reached down and pulled the hobbit's hands up to the light and shook his head 
when he saw that one hand had only four fingers. 
 
“Oh dear, this is not going to look good on your record, Grim.” 
 
“What are you talking about?” 
 
Pulling Grim aside the old man whispered into his ear and after a few seconds, Grim’s 
expression changed to alarm. “Oh no. But its not my fault. He was in the four 
corners.” 
 
“It does not matter. You should have checked for the mark!” 
 
“Well, what do we do now?” 
 
Hearing this, Frodo finally snapped and falling to the ground, began to weep. 
 
“Oh now, now. We must not have that!” The older man stepped back and quickly 
putting down the lantern, pulled the Hobbit into his arms and held him in a 
comforting embrace. 
 
“Shh! Hush now, it is going to be all right. We shall set things right. Come on. Let me 
get rid of these wretches and then I will take you upstream.” 
 
Without further ado, Grim and Patter got onto the boat and setting Frodo near him, 
the ferryman picked up his oar and began to row down stream. 
 
As the boat carried its passengers downstream, Patter started to speak and it soon 
became evident that he was speaking mostly for Frodo’s benefit. 
 
“I suppose you are wondering where you are and what this is all about. Well, I shall 
tell you. This is The Judgment Zone, the place for those who have been judged by 
Mandos in the Great Halls of the Dead. Those like these creatures here, who led their 
lives in darkness, doing great evil, are then placed in one of five different plains of 
hell: the fiery abyss, the watery torment, isolation and agony, darkness, and the 
purification ritual.” 
 
“Pur-ific-ation ritual?” asked Frodo, shocked to find he could speak at last. 
 
“That is a plain that after a period of time adjudged by Mandos, will purify the dark 
spirit and allow it to be rejudged and re-sentenced...a second chance, if you will. A 
great many go there. Mostly Humans and Dwarves, even a few Elves. But not many 
Orcs or goblins.” 
 
The Orcs who were standing nearby turned and hissed at Frodo, but Grim quickly 
took control of them by taking out his whip and cracking it at them. Bowing, they 
scuttled away fearfully. 
 
Frodo was just as frightened at seeing the whip (though it was not directed at him) 
and the angry face of Grim, and took cover behind the ferryman. 
 
Patter smiled gently and softly patted the hobbit's back. 
 
“There, there now little Hobbit. Nothing to fear. Grim does not hurt the innocent. He 
can be a bit of a fool and rash at times, even stupid, but not cruel.” 
 
Grim only huffed and put the whip away. 
 
Frodo swallowed and shook his head, and stared up at Patter. 
 
“There are also other plains upstream. Very different from the places we are about to 
enter. I must beg your pardon for what you are about to see. It was not supposed to 
be what you were to experience. All I can do is reassure you that no harm shall come 
to thee.” 
 
Frodo felt the boat lurch, and as it turned down another tunnel, Frodo heard the 
distinct sound of screaming coming towards them. 
 
An arm gently pulled the Hobbit close, as images of fire and shadowy forms appeared 
on the glassy black walls. A hand quickly covered Frodo’s eyes. 
 
Frodo whimpered and shook as the sounds increased and then he realized that some 
of the screams were coming from the boat. Shaking, Frodo felt arms pull him closer as 
Grim’s angry cries ordered the Humans and Orcs off the boat. When it seemed they 
did not move fast enough, the whip was once more slashed in the air. 
 
Crying loudly, Frodo clung to Patter. “Gandalf! Gandalf! Sam!” he wailed loudly. 
 
“Hush now, it's all right.” 
 
But Patter’s soft words did not soothe the frightened Hobbit and Frodo wept and 
screamed all the louder for Gandalf. Where was he?! Why wasn’t he here?! 
 
“Gandalf, Gandalf, save me!” 
 
Then everything went dark once more. 
 
TBC 
 
Part Two 
 
Frodo awoke to find himself lying on the ferry boat and he could feel the movement 
of the river once more, now flowing upstream. A slight breeze was blowing and there 
seemed to be a bright light above him. Daring to look up, Frodo could see Patter 
standing behind him with his head bowed at the light above the boat and he appeared 
to be filled with sorrow. 
 
It took a moment before Frodo realized that Patter was speaking to the light as well. 
 
“I deeply regret what happened. I know, I know I should not have taken him that 
way, but I feared to leave him behind on the embankment. I am sorry! Please forgive 
me, it was a terrible mistake.” 
 
Frodo could hear no voices but the light above him seemed most comforting. Sitting 
up, Frodo stared at the light, wondering what it was. It seemed to be pulling the boat 
even faster away from the darkness and as they went further upstream, the tunnels 
changed, becoming less intimidating and frightening. It reminded Frodo of Bilbo’s 
stories of Thorin’s Lonely Mountain. 
 
Wiping a stray tear from his eye, Frodo turned back to Patter in confusion. 
 
“What’s happening? Where am I being taken?” 
 
“To the Halls of Mandos , which is where you were supposed to be taken in the first 
place. My humblest apologies, dear little one. I thought you were of importance but 
did not suspect how important. Fear not, she will lead you now to the Halls.” 
 
Still confused, Frodo turned back to the light to see a familiar and beautiful Elf 
woman standing before him. It was Arwen, or at least it appeared to be an image of 
her. She smiled down at him and offered Frodo her hand. 
 
Feeling less frightened by this figure, Frodo gave her his hand. 
“Arwen? How did you come to be here?” 
 
“It has been many years since I passed out of my body, Frodo. Here I dwell as a 
guide to those who come from the mortal life of Middle-Earth. It is work that I have 
grown quite fond of. I was supposed to meet you at the crossroads but somehow, you 
wound up in the Four Corners and there you have witnessed something you should 
never have seen. Patter is very sorry for frightening you.” 
 
“The last thing I remember was being with Sam in Valinor. He was tired and sad after 
learning that our children had died. Elessar, Little Merry and little Pippin and Florin. 
We heard about you and Aragorn dying and of the others, my cousins....” 
 
“Fear not, Frodo. Only mortal death did they experience. They live still in spirit and 
are waiting for you.” 
 
Frodo smiled and allowed Arwen to pull him into her arms and he sighed blissfully. 
 
“You will be with your Sam very soon. I promise.” 
 
Relieved beyond words, Frodo could only hold on tighter to Arwen’s hand. “Thank 
you.” 
 
The boat finally came to a halt, nudging against the embankment. Frodo peeked out 
and saw what looked to him like Moria, only brighter and more majestic. There were 
great halls and doorways and the ground was soft; the soil reminded Frodo of the 
sand of the sea. 
 
Arwen led him off the boat and Frodo glanced back at Patter. Seeing his pained face, 
he smiled gently at him and waved goodbye. Patter too finally smiled and then with a 
nod, turned away and with his oar, headed down stream. 
 
“My Lady, what exactly is the Halls of Mandos?” 
 
“It is a place where all must go when they leave their mortal life on Middle-Earth. It is 
a place where all are judged by what they have done or have failed to do in their life. 
Mandos knows all and sees everything. He is very fair and wise. He reminds me of 
my Ada.” 
 
Frodo grinned and nodded. “Elrond was reunited with Celebrian in Valinor and you 
have two new sisters. They look alot like you. But he misses you deeply.” 
 
Arwen smiled and nodded. “Excellent, for when I am graced with another renewal of 
life, I will be most ready to be with Ada again.” 
 
Frodo knitted his brows, befuddled. Seeing his confusion, she smiled. “Once, I lived 
before, many days long past as the Lady of Luthien. I passed into death, for I gave up 
my immortality and dared to love a mortal. I was graced then with another chance for 
life, but once again, I relinquished my immortality to love a mortal...and love him I 
did, as you know. But now, I am ready. Ready to live that which was intended. 
Soon, I shall be born again as Ada’s third daughter in Valinor, where I will remain.” 
 
Frodo, understanding at last, grinned. “You will be with your father once again.” 
 
For a moment Frodo wondered what happened to Aragorn. Even after so many years, 
Frodo still felt a deep love for the human Ranger he met in Bree, during the time of 
the War of the Rings. 
 
Arwen continued to lead Frodo down many halls and through several large doors. 
 
Frodo stopped in his tracks when he saw that the doors were all a bit different. One 
had Dwarf markings. On another door were Elf markings. 
 
“What is this?” 
 
“These are the doorways to worlds and plains of Light. Each race that comes to the 
Halls of Mandos must be sorted into their proper place after judgment. Here is a place 
where heroic Dwarves come. And here-” Arwen pointed to the elvish door, “is a place 
where Elves of great honor in battle come.” 
 
She paused and moved to the Dwarf door and tapped lightly upon it. A few seconds 
later, several heavy footsteps were heard and a loud voice called out, demanding to 
know who it was. 
 
“It is I, Lady Arwen. Open.” 
 
At once the door opened and an older Dwarf with gray and silver hair braids 
appeared, wearing armor made of pure gold. 
 
“What is it? Another arrival so soon? Eh, what is this? This is no Dwarf. Is this some 
sort of joke being played, can’t you see I am in the middle of spinning my legendary 
tale to my fellow Dwarves, I have no time to speak to....” He paused and then 
glancing at Frodo’s four-fingered hand, he gasped in surprise, as Arwen smiled. “Well 
I’ll be, it can’t be...surely not? Frodo Baggins, is it?!” 
 
At once Frodo was drawn up in a tight embrace and spun in circles. Laughing and not 
exactly sure why, Frodo stared at the strange Dwarf in happy confusion. 
 
“Yes I am. I just arrived.” 
 
“Well, well, come on in. I am Thorin, King Under the Mountain, and I so enjoy the 
company of a Baggins! Of which I haven’t been graced in some time since Bilbo went 
off to the Plains of Paradise...I must send him a message to please visit.” 
 
Pausing, the gruff Dwarf saw that Arwen had stopped Frodo from entering and was 
shaking her head at the Dwarf. “Dearest King Under the Mountain, Frodo has not yet 
met Mandos. Therefore, he cannot enter the rooms. Once he has been judged, I will 
see about a visit and I will convey your message to Bilbo as soon as possible.” 
 
Frodo stared in shock and amazement. He couldn’t believe he was actually staring at 
Thorin, the legend himself. 
 
“All right then. But have our burglar bring this one along with him, eh?! I would so 
enjoy some new stories around the fire!” 
 
Glancing in, Frodo could see many Dwarves were gathering in what appeared to be a 
large dining room with an abundance of food on many tables. A fire was roaring in 
the center and next to it, at a set of smaller tables, Dwarves were playing various 
games. Laughter and story telling could be heard in the crowded room and all seemed 
to be having a wonderful time. For a moment, Frodo wanted to enter this friendly 
environment and have a chance to finally meet Thorin, the Dwarf who helped his 
Uncle fight a dragon. But his thoughts turned to Sam and Bilbo, and Frodo longed to 
see them and be reassured that the end of everything was not necessarily the end. 
 
“I will! Thank you, oh, Great King Under the Mountain.” Frodo bowed before him 
and the Dwarf laughed. 
 
“Just like Bilbo! Ha! Another Burglar!” 
 
Arwen closed the door and smiled down at Frodo to see his questioning eyes. “Once 
you are graced by Mandos' judgement, it is permitted to visit the other plains to see 
old acquaintances and friendships of one's past.” 
 
“Bilbo IS here?” 
 
“Of course, Frodo. All you have loved and cared for are here.” 
 
“Truly?” Frodo asked, his eyes already filling with tears. 
 
“Truly.” Arwen replied and took Frodo into her arms. “Now come.” 
 
As they turned to head down the halls, a tall figure came walking by, heading for 
what appeared to be the Elven door. So caught up in his own thoughts, he failed to 
look down and therefore, collided with Frodo. Arwen laughed as the Elf Lord 
became entangled with the small Hobbit. 
 
Surprised and a little bit caught off guard, the Elf Lord narrowed his eyes at the 
Hobbit and shook his head, speaking to Arwen in rapid Quenya; unbeknownst to the 
Elf, Frodo understood, having dwelt in Valinor for so many years. 
 
“Another Halfling? They seem to be quite abundant these days in the Halls of 
Mandos.” 
 
“They have earned a place of honor as all the others.” 
 
The Elf Lord shrugged and getting to his feet, helped Frodo onto his as well. 
Noticing the four fingers on the small left hand, he too gasped in surprise, much like 
the Dwarf, and turned to Arwen. “It is not him?” 
 
Arwen nodded. 
 
“It is the one? He has come at last? Oh!” 
 
Now speaking in the common tongue, the Elf Lord bowed before the hobbit, which 
made Frodo feel quite nervous. He never, even after so many years, got use to being 
the center of attention. 
 
“The Ringbearer! I am indeed honored to meet you at last. Welcome to the Halls of 
Mandos!” 
 
Frodo watched as he bowed and uncertain of proper etiquette, returned the Elf’s 
gesture. “The honor is mine...ahm?” 
 
“You may call me Gil-Galad.” 
 
Frodo’s mouth dropped in shock. Bowing once more, Gil-Galad bowed lightly to the 
Lady and then entered the elven door, closing it softly behind him. 
 
Frodo finally turned to Arwen just in time for her to reach down with her hand and 
close Frodo’s mouth for him. “We can not linger any longer. Come, it is time to meet 
Mandos.” 
 
Frodo hesitated and then taking Arwen's hand, he allowed himself to be led towards 
the end of the corridor where a large silver door awaited them. Swallowing, Frodo 
tried to ignore the sight of the two, large guards standing at either side of the door 
with crossed swords to bar the entrance. They looked to be elven, covered in shining, 
ancient armor and quite intimidating. 
 
Oh, how Frodo wished Gandalf or Lady Galadriel were here with him! 
 
Arwen nodded to each of them and at once, they pulled aside their long swords and 
opened the door. 
 
A bright white light appeared from within, and Frodo hesitated once again. Then, 
with an encouraging look from Arwen, he walked into the light. 
TBC 
 
Part Three 
 
The blinding light faded to reveal a large golden hall. It was huge and Frodo was 
surprised as he looked up at the ceiling to see a thousand shining stars twinkling down 
at him. It was breathtaking. Looking back at the hall, Frodo saw that on the far side 
of the room, coming up from the ground and leading to the stars, was a bright column 
of yellowish light. It seemed to be flowing continuously. 
 
Turning away from it, Frodo spotted a large silver throne on the far right side of the 
room and seated upon it was an Elf-like being dressed in golden robes. He appeared 
to be rather old, with long flowing hair and a long beard. Spotting a figure at the Elf's 
side, Frodo gave out a joyful cry at the familiar sight. Running to the now laughing 
form, Frodo dived into the arms of Gandalf. 
 
“Gandalf! Gandalf, you're here!” 
 
Now weeping bitterly, Frodo buried his hands in the wizard's robes, trying his best to 
get closer in an attempt to feel safe. Of course he was safe. Gandalf was here. 
 
Gandalf’s laughter stopped and with a heavy sigh, he held Frodo tightly in his arms. 
“Oh Frodo! My dearest Hobbit, I am so sorry for the fright you received in coming 
here. I knew I should have been there at your passing so I could be your guide into 
the dark. But alas, I had been away on other matters for Manwe. My poor Hobbit.” 
 
Frodo only wept all the more and dug deeper into Gandalf’s embrace. “Don’t let me 
go! It was so awful! I was so afraid and alone and I-I couldn’t find Sam. They took 
me downstream...Oh, Gandalf!” 
 
Sighing angrily, Gandalf pulled Frodo’s head up to meet his eyes and shook his head. 
“I will have some words with Grim and Patter for this.” 
 
Hearing this Frodo shrugged and wiped at the tears still falling from his face. 
 
“Please, Gandalf, it wasn’t really Patter’s fault. He didn’t want to leave me on the 
embankment alone and he was kind to me, really. He didn’t mean to scare me. In fact, 
he was very nice. I just-I just didn’t like that dark place. It reminded me of....” Frodo 
closed his eyes and remembered the dark place, the place filled with Orcs and screams 
and whips. 
 
“Hush now, you are safe.” 
 
Frodo smiled and nodded. “I am glad you are here, but Gandalf, I am so confused. I 
was cold and I-I have tears? I thought when you die, that doesn’t happen anymore. 
And how did you get to be here? And where is Sam, have you seen Sam?” 
 
Gandalf’s sadness vanished at the rush of questions and he laughed heartily. 
 
“Ah, Hobbits never change. Always filled with one question after another. First off, 
you were cold because you still have the after effects of life. As for tears...whether 
you are living or have passed from life to another existence, you will always have your 
emotions, for that is a part of your spirit and a very beautiful one at that. As for why I 
am here? Because I wanted to be, and Manwe asked Eru to grant my wish and he 
graciously did so, knowing full well how attached I have become to certain...races. 
Yes, Frodo, no matter where you go, I shall come and visit you. When I have the 
time, of course.” 
 
Frodo blushed and then waited expectantly for another one of his questions to be 
answered. 
 
“As for Sam, you just missed him. He was here for judgment. He wanted to wait for 
you but Mandos had other judgments to make. Fear not -- you will see him shortly. 
Now, put aside your questions for here is someone who has been waiting eagerly and 
rather impatiently for you. Mandos, may I introduce to you, Frodo Baggins of the 
Shire.” 
 
Placed back on the floor again, Frodo was turned to the man sitting on the throne, 
who seemed even more gigantic than Gandalf. He looked taller then any Elf Frodo 
had ever seen. Swallowing, Frodo walked slowly towards him and then bowed before 
him. 
 
A smile creased the old man’s face, and Frodo was lost in his bright eyes that seemed 
to shine like the stars above. 
 
“At last we meet, Frodo Baggins. I have longed to meet you. Frodo, of the nine 
fingers, who bore the Ring of Doom.” 
 
Frodo swallowed again and nervously, his hands went to his vest. Surprised, he 
realized that he was still dressed in the clothes he had died in beside Sam, in his smial 
in Valinor. 
 
Looking back at the Great Lord Mandos, Frodo felt quite small and very 
insignificant. He had never in his wildest dreams thought he would ever come so far. 
He had dreamed a thousand times as a child, wishing with all his heart to see the 
world. And not just Middle-Earth, but everything and beyond it. Sometimes late at 
night, when there were no clouds in the sky, Frodo would make his way to his hidden 
spot and sit under the waterfall, staring at the stars. And he wondered, wondered 
what lay beyond those sparkling lights in the sky. 
 
Snapped back to reality, Frodo saw that Mandos was smiling again at the Hobbit and 
speaking more to Gandalf then to him. 
 
“Hobbits. They are exceptional. Every time I meet one, I am amazed at their beauty 
and innocence. I have desired for a long time to bring this one here and to bestow 
upon him judgment, but Eru commanded me to give him a long life of peace in 
Valinor with the Elves. Why is this?” 
 
Gandalf didn’t hesitate. “Does it surprise you that of all the Hobbits and creatures of 
Middle-Earth, this one was held in special honor and love by the Elves? They and the 
Valar did not wish to see him depart from their worlds. From his birth, he has carried 
within him a light that has never been seen before and will never be seen again.” 
 
“Yes, I can see that. But he still suffered great sadness, even in Valinor. This one has 
always felt different and isolated. I wished him to come here so he may have true 
peace. Eru‘s will I obeyed but now that I have this one, I shall never let him go.” 
 
Shaking a little in confusion, Frodo looked to Gandalf for help, but Gandalf only 
winked at Frodo and that alone reassured him that all was well. 
 
“Come here, child of light.” 
 
Frodo hesitated and then drew closer. Bending forward, Mandos gently raised his 
own hand and placed it on Frodo’s head. 
 
The Hobbit suddenly felt exceedingly warm and a brightness seemed to flash deep 
inside. A dark memory was plucked out and vanished from his mind. Entranced, 
Frodo allowed the memory to be taken from him. 
 
“You are removing the memory he had of first coming here?” asked Gandalf, 
realizing what Mandos was doing. 
 
“He was never supposed to see such darkness or evil. It will do him no harm to 
remove this one memory.” 
 
“Why not remove the other dark memories?” asked Gandalf, wishing in his heart that 
the memory of the Ring and Sauron's tainted evil could be whisked away from 
Frodo’s mind as well. 
 
“Because each memory has made Frodo what he is. To remove all those memories you 
suggest would cause him great fear and confusion. No, those memories will remain. In 
time, they will fade. Ah!” Mandos paused as he ended the spell, seeing more of 
Frodo's mind . “What a sweet Hobbit, much like that gardener, so timid and shy. But 
this one has such an intriguing mind, always wanting to know and experience 
everything and always thinking...my goodness. What amusing creatures these are. 
They never cease to amaze me.” 
 
“Nor me,” replied Gandalf. 
 
Removing his hand from Frodo’s forehead, he watched as the Hobbit opened his eyes 
as if returning from a deep, peaceful sleep. Staring up at Mandos, Frodo felt rather 
foolish for daydreaming and took a few uncertain steps back. 
 
“Fear not, little star, for it is time for judgment to be placed. Go to the wall of light 
and enter it.” 
 
Frodo paused and turned to the flowing light he had seen when he first came in. His 
eyes widening in fright, Frodo turned to Gandalf for assistance. 
 
“That is the Light of Justice. It was created by Eru himself and given to Mandos as a 
gift to help him decide where to place all souls that enter his kingdom. The Light 
reflects one's spirit and depending on the color it emits, it decides one's fate.” 
 
Frodo continued to stare at Gandalf in fear and then back at the light in deep 
trepidation. Going to Gandalf, Frodo opened his hands and the wizard sadly shook 
his head. 
 
“I am afraid I cannot lead you this time, Frodo. You must go on this journey alone.” 
 
The tears once again welled up in Frodo’s eyes and he swallowed and turned back to 
the light, then glancing at Mandos. This time, all expression was wiped from his face, 
but when Mandos spoke, it was soft and low. 
 
“The Light has many colors, Eru cast them within to decide one's fate. Black for evil 
and souls unredeemable. Orange for those who have led an evil life at the start but in 
the end, changed for the better and therefore, are graced with purification and 
someday granted a second chance. Blue, which is often bestowed upon heroic Elves, 
Dwarves and Humans. Yes, each color reflects one's soul. I have seen many colors 
and I look forward to seeing what color comes from you, Frodo Baggins. Enter the 
light and face thy judgment.” 
 
Frodo sighed and slowly made his way towards it, but as he walked each step, dark 
memories assaulted him. Frodo reflected on all the bad things he had done in his life. 
The stolen apples from Mrs. Dumbledee’s orchard. The mushrooms pilfered from 
Farmer Maggot. Of course, years later, he paid them back thricefold for the little 
misdemeanors he had committed upon them. But surely that did not matter. He stole 
from others and that would not bode well in judgment. 
 
Frodo remembered how he had allowed his cousins and Sam to journey with him to 
Mordor. Would that count as a strike against him, for allowing innocent creatures to 
accompany him on such a dangerous and evil quest? 
 
What about his hateful words to Sam while he carried Sauron's Ring? What about 
when he claimed the Ring at the end, and failed to do that which he had been bid, to 
cast the Ring of power back into the fires from whence it came? 
 
What about Gollum? Frodo had promised to save the pitiful creature, but he fell into 
the fires of Mount Doom with his precious. 
 
Last, but not least, did Eru condone or condemn those who loved their own gender? 
Would Eru be disgusted at the knowledge that Frodo had chosen to love his gardener 
and lived out his life with Samwise Gamgee? What of Frodo’s secret love for 
Aragorn? Bad enough to choose to love another male, but what of a Human male on 
top of that? 
 
As Frodo finally reached the light, he felt the tears burn down his cheeks and feeling 
hope fade from within, he swallowed one last time and entered the beam. 
 
With his eyes closed, Frodo waited for the end of all things. 
 
Memories surfaced in Frodo’s mind and he watched as his life was played out before 
him. Gandalf’s fireworks, the books Bilbo had given him, his parents, Sam, The Shire, 
Bag End, Elves... 
 
Mandos rose from his throne, his eyes widened in absolute shock and delight. The 
light flashed around Frodo and then the entire room was engulfed with the colors of 
the rainbow, each color vibrant and growing brighter with each passing moment. Pink, 
yellow, blue, green, white, purple and colors that had yet to be seen by others. Then, 
diamonds, like grains of sand, sparkled all above Frodo and around him and through 
him. When Frodo finally took a step out of the light, his appearance had changed. 
 
Frodo now was dressed in clothing similar to his usual, but instead of brown and reds, 
they were silver and white. A long cloak of shimmering bright colors folded around 
him. His face appeared youthful, as he had appeared before the One Ring had come 
to him. His four-fingered hand was now restored and whole. His skin glowed with an 
aura of light and above his head was a crown of diamonds, glittering and twinkling in 
bright flowing energy. 
 
Frodo the Ringbearer he was no more. Before them stood Frodo, as he was always 
meant to be. 
 
Gandalf sighed in pleasure, while Mandos shook his head in pure amazement. 
With his eyes still closed, Frodo wept softly, still waiting for the dark judgment and 
knowing there was no place he could hide. Not even Gandalf could save him now. 
 
“Frodo, open your eyes.” 
 
Frodo did as he was ordered and stared sadly up at Mandos and Gandalf, expecting 
the worst. 
 
“Look, Frodo, look at thy judgment, look!” Mandos stepped forward and turning 
Frodo to the light once more, Frodo saw that it had changed into a glass-like mirror. 
What Frodo saw reflected back caused him to stare in utter astonishment. 
 
Was that a crown upon his forehead? Did he look younger? Did he really have all his 
fingers, onetwothreefourfivesixseveneightnine...yes ten! Ten wonderful little fingers. 
Frodo swung around and cried out in happiness and flew to Gandalf, who was 
already laughing in his own joy. Frodo joined him and exalted as Gandalf tossed 
Frodo into the air and caught him easily before setting the Hobbit back down. 
 
Frodo then turned to confront Mandos. 
 
He stared down at Frodo in quiet contemplation and getting down onto his knees 
(still being quite tall), he bestowed a kiss upon Frodo’s forehead. 
 
“I am so very honored to meet you, Frodo Baggins. Truly you are a light that will 
never be seen again in Middle-Earth. But joy shall come to all here who will pay 
witness to your beauty and purity. I could in my power bestow upon you several 
choices. I could grant you another life...a return to Middle-Earth...perhaps as a 
grandchild from Samwise the Brave’s line? Or perhaps I could grant you a place in 
the Halls of the Elves...with whom you have so happily dwelt for so long? No, 
instead I will grant you a place, a special place where you will reside for all eternity. 
Surrounded by all those who have loved you and who you have loved. Yes, for true 
happiness can only be found with the presence of loved ones...and love you shall have 
for the rest of your days...and beyond.” 
 
Getting to his feet and moving back, he bowed to Frodo and returned to his throne. 
Gandalf then came forward and took Frodo’s hand into his own. 
 
“Come Frodo, it is time to go to the Halls of Paradise.” 
 
Frodo smiled and gratefully, he followed Gandalf out of the Halls of Mandos and 
back down the great halls of Light. Without faltering in step, Frodo passed each door 
with a feeling of great happiness and excitement as this new adventure was about to 
take him, he hoped, to his loved ones. To Bilbo. . .And would Sam be there too? 
Hastening his pace, Frodo was equal to Gandalf’s footsteps and found himself 
suddenly in front of a large golden gate. What lay beyond was a green valley of 
unsurpassed beauty. It was then that Frodo realized he had truly come home... at last. 
 
TBC 
 
Part Four 
 
A thought suddenly struck Frodo as he prepared to enter the gates. Pausing, Frodo 
turned to Gandalf questioningly. 
 
“How are Gimli and Legolas? How is Alasse dealing with our deaths?” 
 
Frodo felt sad that of all his children, she was the last left living in Valinor, and it 
grieved him to think that she was all alone. He also thought of the remaining living 
fellowship members. When Gimli and Legolas finally arrived in Valinor, it seemed the 
inseparable pair would never put Frodo or Sam down on the ground again. For many 
months afterwards, Legolas and Gimli practically lived in Frodo and Sam’s smial and 
entertained Alasse with stories of Middle-Earth and her heroic fathers. Now, Frodo 
wondered how they all were. 
 
Gandalf smiled sadly and shook his head. “They took it hard, of course, I tried to 
reassure them as best I could but alas, they are quite grief stricken. As are Elrond and 
Celebrian and Galadriel.” He paused and sighed, not wishing to hold anything back. 
 
“They are currently making a glass casket for your physical remains and when it is 
completed, both you and Sam will be placed near the Eastern shore...a great many 
mourn your passing.” 
 
“I am sorry,” Frodo replied, looking down sadly and then finally, he looked back up, 
meeting Gandalf’s eyes solemnly. “But Sam was tired...and I didn’t wish to stay in 
Valinor without him.” 
 
“I understand. Fear not, Alasse has been taken under Galadriel’s wing and will reside 
in her home for the last of her days. Soon, I promise, you will be reunited.” 
 
“Gimli and Legolas?” 
 
“They still have time to spend in Valinor, adventures to retell and a few new 
adventures to experience. But Gimli’s time is coming. He is no longer as young as he 
once was, and when he passes, he will take his place in the Great Halls of his 
forefathers.” 
 
“But not Legolas...he will live forever won’t he? Poor Legolas, he will be so very 
lonely -- he and Gimli ahm...well you do know that they are a pair, right?” 
 
Gandalf chuckled and then nodded sadly. “Yes I am quite aware, as strange as it is to 
see such an unlikely pair, or perhaps not so unlikely. I am afraid that my sight has 
shown me that Legolas will give sway to despair and like others of his race, he will 
fade. For Elves cannot only die in battle but from a broken heart.” 
 
“They will let him come here, won’t they?” 
 
“Naturally, he has proven himself virtuous and brave beyond measure. You should 
not be surprised when someday, a tall, blond Elf suddenly towers over you once more 
and offers you his bow in fealty and love.” 
 
Sad that it would only be death that could bring all of them together again, Frodo 
also felt happy that someday soon they would all be reunited. Relieved with this bit 
of news, he started to open the gate when he saw that Gandalf had turned and was 
walking away. 
 
“Gandalf?” 
 
He paused in step and glanced back at the Hobbit, smiling brightly. “I must depart for 
now. Do you think that all my time is reserved only for one Hobbit? Besides, before I 
return to Galadriel with news of you, I wish to visit old friends as well. I have missed 
Thorin deeply and wish to speak again of old tales and stories. Fear not, Frodo, all 
that you seek is beyond these gates, and I shall see you again soon.” 
 
With that, he turned away and disappeared down the long corridor. Alone, Frodo 
sighed and holding his breath, he swung open the gate and entered the lush lands. 
*** 
 
Frodo hadn’t taken more then two steps when he heard his name being called. 
Turning towards a large stone wall, Frodo laughed when he spotted two familiar 
Hobbits sitting on the ledge, smoking pipeweed. 
 
“Well, you have come at last.” 
 
“Hello, Frodo,” called Merry. “You certainly took your time getting here.” 
 
Laughing, Merry leaned back and that was when Frodo spotted a tall Human wearing 
royal clothes sitting near them. “This is King Theoden, he met us when we first 
arrived.” 
 
Theoden smiled at Frodo. “I meet you at last, Ringbearer. Welcome!” 
 
Frodo smiled and watched as Pippin leaped off the wall and like a speeding arrow 
from Legolas’s bow, dived into his arms. “Oh Frodo, I yearned to see you, dearest 
cousin!” 
 
Holding him close, Frodo once again felt the tears come to his eyes and didn’t dare 
try to hold them back. “Pippin, oh Pippin! I missed you too!” 
 
“There are others here that missed you as well...come on, they're waiting just around 
the corner.” 
 
Happily, Frodo allowed himself to be lead, with Merry and Theoden waving him 
goodbye before returning to their pipes and story telling. 
 
Reaching the end of the wall, Frodo turned the corner only to find himself 
surrounded and at the same time hugged by a gathering of Hobbits. In complete 
shock and joy, Frodo recognized each youthful face as his offspring. 
 
“Florin! Little Merry and Pippin, Bo! (Frodo’s son named after Bilbo), Hammy! I 
can’t believe it! Prim, Bella, Bungo! Oh, your all here and you look so happy and 
young, just as I last saw you!” Frodo wept and hugged each and every one of them, 
followed by cries of “Father, Papa, Ada!” 
 
Then as Frodo released Bungo, a tall form reached in and grasped Frodo into a bear 
hug. Gasping for breath, Frodo cried out in pleasure to see who had him in his arms. 
“Elessar! Oh, Elessar, it is you! My baby!” 
 
Crying like his father, Elessar, who looked more like his Human father, only shorter 
and with slightly darker and curlier hair, grinned. “Yes, Papa, it is me. I have so 
longed to be with you! I am so glad you finally came!” 
 
Frodo nodded, unable to help himself. “So am I! Oh, my baby, my Elessar!” 
 
Touching Elessar and all his children over and over again to reassure himself that they 
were really there, Frodo did not see another arrival slowly making his way towards 
them, walking with a cane that was largely unnecessary. 
 
“What’s this, my nephew waylaid by a bunch of ruffians? Off with you now, and 
allow an old relative some room.” 
 
Turning around, Frodo gasped, unable to speak at first at the youthful sight of Bilbo 
Baggins standing in front of him. 
 
“Well, don’t I get a hug too?” gestured Bilbo, holding out his arms to his favorite lad. 
Frodo didn’t need any other encouragement and flew into his uncle's embrace. 
 
“BILBO!’ 
 
Tears streaming down both their faces, they embraced each other over and over again 
and for a long time afterward, just stared deeply into each other’s eyes. 
 
“Oh, Bilbo, when you left Valinor, it hurt even more than when you left the Shire. I 
grieved for you for so long and thought I would never see you again!” 
 
“I know, my lad, but I was tired of my old body and I so desired to see other things. 
And I have, especially old friends. In fact, I am on my way there right now. Gandalf 
should be waiting there too.” He winked at Frodo and smiled widely. “The finest ale 
comes from Thorin’s personal brew and I mean to get my fill. Now, you relax and 
enjoy yourself and I will be back in a bit. Next time, I will expect you to come with 
me! But right now, there are many more just waiting to see you, so I shall take my 
leave.” 
 
Unable to wipe the smile off his face, Frodo just watched his uncle pass the gates 
where a certain Dwarf appeared to be waiting for him. 
 
“Hullo Balin, come to meet me, have you?” 
 
“Thorin ordered me to, he said if you didn’t have a sound and sure guide, you would 
get lost.” 
 
“Lost indeed! That silly Dwarf still thinks he is the King Under the Mountain. If it 
weren’t for me and my maps, he still would be looking for the secret keyhole! Come 
on! Stop gaping at me, lead on!” 
 
Frodo chuckled, watching them disappear but before he could turn back to his 
children, he found himself once again swept up into strong arms and suspended 
between not one but two large Humans. 
 
“What do we have here? An Orc spy, brother?” 
 
“Nay, my brother, just another short Human, me thinks.” 
 
“Human! Human, how dare you!” Frodo sputtered, then stopped when the two men 
laughed and hugged him tightly. Catching his breath, Frodo recognized these ruffians 
and giggled. “Boromir, Faramir! You’re here too?” 
 
“Where else would we be? Only for a brief visit, though. Boromir was missing your 
cousins and so I came to keep him in line. You know how much work that is.” 
 
Grimacing, but with a sparkle in his eye, Boromir shook his shoulders. “I can still 
whip you, little brother. We'll see who keeps who in line.” 
 
Then, becoming serious, Boromir faced Frodo solemnly. Setting the Hobbit down, he 
bowed before Frodo and kept his head lowered. 
 
"Frodo, I wish to take this opportunity to beg your forgiveness...in the woods of 
Amon Hen...what I did was beyond forgiveness, but I seek it from you nonetheless.” 
 
Frodo didn’t allow him to go on. Reaching down, Frodo pulled Boromir’s face back 
up to his and placed a gentle kiss on his brow. “I forgave you long ago, Boromir. All 
is forgiven and forgotten. I am so happy to see that you and Faramir are together 
again. He was so heart broken when he learned of your death.” 
 
Rising to his feet, Boromir placed his arm protectively on his brother’s shoulder. 
 
“I am glad Mandos allowed you both to be together again. Is-is your father here? I 
mean, in the Halls of Light?” 
 
Boromir frowned while Faramir sadly looked away. “No, not yet. Perhaps someday. 
He is still being purified and must stand final judgment with Mandos when it is 
completed.” 
 
Frodo sadly touched Faramir’s hand, seeing the Prince shaking slightly. 
 
“In a few days time, I will return to the Halls of Mandos and will speak to him 
personally on both your behalfs. Although I never met him, I know deep in my heart 
that he once was a true nobleman and loved his sons...both of them, dearly. It was 
Sauron’s evil that caused his downfall and madness. Do not give up hope. I will 
beseech Gandalf to help as well.” 
 
Faramir finally faced Frodo tearfully but filled with hope. “Thank you, Frodo. As 
always, you have shown your quality... the very highest.” 
 
Frodo smiled and then shrugged. “Now I must go, I will see you both later, for now I 
am on a great quest. I am still searching for Sam....” Moving away from them and 
from his children, Frodo looked all around, wondering where his Sam could be. 
 
Two figures in the distance appeared in a large field and for a moment Frodo thought 
his eyes were deceiving him. But they were not. A moment later, Frodo started to run. 
 
“Sam! Sam! Aragorn!” Frodo couldn’t believe his eyes -- a young Samwise Gamgee, 
dressed in his Shire gardening clothes, stood waving at him and by his side, dressed 
in kingly finery, was Aragorn as he had last seen him in Minas Tirith. 
 
“Frodo!” What seemed like forever and a day later, Frodo finally reached the two he 
loved most in all the world and was swept up into their loving embrace. 
 
“Frodo, Frodo you have come at last!” 
 
Frodo kissed Sam and Aragorn repeatedly, as they each tried to kiss him equally in 
return. Pressed against them, Frodo refused to remove his tight grip on them and 
laughed and wept in overwhelming bliss. 
 
“Yes, I will never leave you both again, never ever!” 
 
*** 
Aragorn led Frodo into a large cottage by the river and while Sam allowed Aragorn to 
show Frodo their new home, he made his pardon at the doorway. 
 
“Sam, where are you going!” Frodo tried to grab Sam’s arm, only for the gardener to 
wiggle free. 
 
“Now, now, Mr. Frodo, I'm not going far. Its that I just got here and I want to spend 
a little time with my Gaffer and of course, my ma. I’ll be back later tonight and we'll 
talk some more. Besides, I want you to have some time alone with Aragorn. Its been 
almost two hundred years since you last saw each other. Besides there are the children 
I wish to see too.” 
 
Seeing Frodo’s still sad face, he grinned and kissed him softly on the lips. “Stop 
fretting so, you still think too much. We have forever now. All the time in the world 
to be together. Now Aragorn, you know I don’t have to say it, right?” Sam shot 
Aragorn a hard look. 
 
Aragorn crossed his hand over his heart and bowed. “By my life or death, I will look 
after our treasure while you are away.” 
 
Laughing again, Sam kissed Frodo once more and made his way towards the door. 
Glancing out, he nodded. “Yes, this will do nicely, Aragorn. A garden in the front 
will make it look perfect...I’ll get started on that first thing tomorrow.” With a final 
wave, Sam headed out on his own quest to be reunited with his family. 
 
Alone, Frodo turned to see that Aragorn had vanished. 
 
“Aragorn? Aragorn!” 
 
“Up here, little love.” 
 
Hearing his voice, Frodo hurried towards the stairs and climbing up them, he glanced 
down a long hallway, puzzled. 
 
“Aragorn?” 
 
“Here, Frodo.” 
 
Reaching the first door, Frodo opened it and found quite a lovely package awaiting 
him. Inside was a huge bed covered in quilts and blankets and big, fluffy, feather 
pillows. And upon the bed, lying resplendently naked, was Aragorn. 
 
Frodo raised an eyebrow. 
 
“Well, are you just going to stand there all day...or shall I have to drag you in?” 
 
Smiling with a bit of a mischievous grin on his face, Frodo stepped in and closed the 
door behind himself. 
** 
(A long time later) 
 
Frodo rolled back against the pillows, taking several long deep breaths before 
speaking. "Oh! I forgot how wonderful making love to you was. In fact, I think this 
was the best by far...I actually saw fireworks.” 
 
“Really?” 
 
“I never had several, ahm, climaxes in a row before...oh....” 
 
“Thank you. I do aim to please.” 
 
Frodo smiled back at the Ranger made King and reached out his hand to him. 
Aragorn took his hand and brought it to his lips and kissed it softly. Then releasing it, 
Aragorn pulled Frodo into his embrace, allowing the Hobbit to be above him. Frodo 
looked down and thought for sure his heart was going to burst from all this happiness. 
Then his eyes narrowed and for a moment Frodo allowed a dark thought to stray in 
his mind. 
 
*How long would it last?* 
 
Aragorn touched one of Frodo’s curls and pushed it back gently. “Forever Frodo. 
This is to last forever. For you, for all of us. Think of it as a reward, think of it as a 
gift...think of it as you will, but know that it is for real. Never again will you be parted 
from those you love, forever will you be embraced.” 
 
Frodo closed his eyes and when they reopened, fresh tears ran silently down his face. 
 
“Oh Frodo...Be at peace, dear heart.” Kissing and stroking Frodo in his arms, Aragorn 
curled Frodo’s head under his chin and hugged him even closer to his body. “I 
promise you, from this day forward, you will know only joy and laughter.” 
 
Frodo smiled and nodding, he surrendered to the embrace. 
*** 
 
A short time later, as Frodo nuzzled against Aragorn’s collar bone, a door opening 
from downstairs caught their attention. 
 
“Mr. Frodo, hey, Mr. Frodo, I have a surprise for you...actually two...I found them 
visiting my old Gaffer....Come on down!” 
 
Unsure what Sam was talking about, Frodo got to his feet and putting on a nearby 
robe that was probably Aragorn’s, Frodo hurried out the door and back to the 
staircase. 
 
“Sam, who is it?” 
 
Reaching the first step, Frodo’s eyes widened once more at the three forms below, 
two he had not seen since he was twelve years old. 
 
Surely if his heart still beat it would have stopped at that very moment, and giving out 
a loud, joyful shriek, Frodo flew down the stairs and into their arms. 
 
“Mama! Papa!” 
 
Epilogue 
 
Valinor 
 
Near the eastern shore line 
 
The two small forms were laid together in a loving embrace, above the ground and 
under a shady willow tree, in a casket of glass and gold. To no one's surprise, the tiny 
bodies never deteriorated or decomposed and always did they look beautiful in death 
as they had in life. Some would remark that they seemed to be asleep and would 
someday awaken from a much needed rest. In the years and centuries to come, many 
made the pilgrimage to bestow flowers and gifts to honor the Hobbits. Upon the 
stone, in Elvish, were words that many an Elfling child would ponder. 
 
It read simply: “Frodo Lives. Sam, and all those who Frodo loved, are with him.” 
 
The End! 
 
 
Someone To Watch Over Me 
By Summer 
Email FB: Summersfanfiction@hotmail.com 
 
Pairings: Frodo/Sam, Implied: Merry/Frodo, Aragorn/Frodo 
Class: Slash; NC-17, AU-Movie 
Warnings: MPREG Story, Violent consensual sex-, character death (but from old 
age!) 
Description: Angst, Hurt/Comfort 
Summary: Frodo is looking for love. 
 
1/10 
Disclaimer: I don't own them, Tolkien and New Line owns them. I own nothing. 
Beta read by: Achila and Lorie 
 
He knelt down close to the running waterfalls. Keeping himself hidden by the tall 
stalks of green grass, the stranger watched his prey with growing curiosity. He had 
not been far from the Shire when he had bumped into an old friend who'd asked him 
for a favor. It had been quite a favor, but one he could not refuse. 
 
He had been watching this one now for several days. The young hobbit was usually 
not far from his safe habitat -- a round hobbit hole. When he was outside, it was 
usually to sit under a tree in his garden, reading a book or speaking to his gardener, 
exchanging a little gossip. 
 
From the moment he had laid eyes on this halfling, he had been shocked by his 
beauty. The dark brown hair reminded him of chestnuts in season. His eyes were a 
startling blue and his skin was not like the dark brown speckled color of his fellow 
hobbits. No, the skin of Frodo Baggins was almost as white as snow. 
 
This was one of the most beautiful hobbits he had ever seen. Although he had never 
ventured far in the land of the halflings, he had spent some time in Bree and had seen 
many such creatures. None of them could be compared to this one. If it weren't for his 
size and the large feet, he would have sworn that this was one of the Elf kindred. 
 
Frodo Baggins also seemed to have a strange quality about him -- he was intelligent 
and yet innocent as well. Untouched by the outside world. He also seemed to have an 
attractive, alluring quality. In many ways, it made this Baggins a jewel among jewels. 
 
Early this morning, he had seen the young hobbit come out of his hole carrying several 
things on his back. Following, the hobbit led him to this small pond far on the east 
side of Hobbiton. Away from the village and prying eyes, the hobbit had then, 
without hesitation, stripped himself of his clothing and leaped into the sparkling white 
water. 
 
For several minutes, the hobbit swam in circles performing several stroking patterns 
before he finally took his position beneath the waterfall. With a look of absolute 
peace, he raised his hands up into the air and allowed the water to cascade over him. 
Several times, his body moved in a graceful motion up and down with his hands 
moving slowly to rub at his face and hair and then at his throat and chest. 
 
Surprised and unable to tear his eyes away from the lovely sight, he was dazed to see 
that the hobbit's body was almost hairless except for his head, legs and feet. In a 
succinct word, the young hobbit was magnificent and that was all that could be said. 
No wonder his friend had wanted him safeguarded. 
 
He, a ranger, had traveled to many places in Middle Earth and knew without question 
that many an unscrupulous soul would have snapped this one up for their own twisted 
pleasures. Yes, this one needed protecting. 
 
There was no doubt about that. For a moment, he pondered his friend's words that 
this one, this Frodo Baggins, would be sent on an important mission, one that would 
mean the future of Middle Earth. Surely his friend did not expect such an innocent to 
leave the safety of the Shire? Surely the kindly Wizard did not expect so much from 
such a small, frail and obvious gentle being? 
 
But dark days were coming. Dark days. 
 
Shaking his head, he was just about to take his leave when a noise caused him to stop. 
*** 
 
"Mr. Frodo! There you are! Your Sam is here!" 
 
He had almost finished his bath when an all too familiar voice boomed in his ear. 
Looking up, Frodo watched as a lone figure stepped out of the trees, making his way 
towards the pond carrying what looked to be several bags along with assorted pots 
and pans. 
 
"I knew I would find you here!" 
 
Sputtering in shock, Frodo could only gape at the blond haired gardener who, without 
hesitation, put down his burdens and proceeded to make a fire. It was then Frodo 
remembered that he was stark naked, and with another gasp, fled into the pond with 
only his head sticking out from the water, Frodo peered around a boulder, blushing as 
red as a rose petal. 
 
"Samwise Gamgee, how in the world did you find me?" 
 
Blinking, the gardener shrugged and returned to his current job of starting a fire. 
 
"Well, you weren't at Bag End, and it was too early to be going to the Green Dragon. 
And since you were not at the Mill, or visiting Folco, for he's away visiting his 
grandfather up by the west farthing, I figured you had to be here -- in your secret 
hideaway." 
 
Now with narrowed eyes and forgetting his nakedness, Frodo slowly came out of the 
water, allowing his curiosity to take over. He looked at his gardener in a new light. 
 
"You knew of my secret hideaway?" 
 
"Yes, Sir, I know you've been coming here since you came to Bag End -- usually 
when you didn't want to get under foot when Mr. Bilbo was working on his book or 
working in the kitchen. Sometimes you came here when you were troubled or felt 
sad." 
 
"You...you followed me? You spied on me?" 
 
Surprised by the accusation, Sam shook his head. 
 
"Not spying, just making sure the heir to be, Master of Bag End, was all right. 
Anyways, you hadn't been up here in awhile, almost a year since Mr. Bilbo left. Yes, I 
remember that very next day, after Mr. Gandalf left too, you came up here and spent 
the whole day just sitting on a rock and staring at the falls. You looked so sad and I 
was tempted to come over but, well it not being my place and all, and I thought you 
would want to be alone so, I just stayed and watched over you until you headed for 
home. So today, I reckoned you came here and lucky for you, I came too." 
 
Sam glanced at the blanket and the small pack on the ground near Frodo's clothes. 
 
"You forgot to bring something to eat on your outing." 
 
Frodo stared in dumbstuck silence and then slowly, a smile came to his face. 
 
"Oh Sam, really you are a wonder." 
 
He should have been upset but Frodo found himself unable to be irritated at his 
devoted gardener. It was true that this had been his secret spot. A place no one knew 
about. A place he would often come when he needed to think serious thoughts or 
somewhere to clear dark memories. He considered it a magical place, and it was a bit 
disconcerting to find that it wasn't so unknown after all. 
 
This morning he had awoken to memories of his parents and it took him several 
moments to realize that today was the anniversary of their death more then 20 years 
ago. The memories had brought him to tears. Ever since Bilbo left, he had felt more 
alone then ever before. All his life he had felt isolated and separate from everyone 
around him, particularly after his parents drowned and he was sent to live at Brandy 
Hall. No one paid him much mind unless it was to scold him or to comment how 
UNHOBBIT-like he was, relegated to be nothing but an outcast. That is, until Bilbo 
had taken him in and of course, he had met Sam. 
 
Dear sweet Sam. Frodo emerged from his thoughts just in time to hear Sam 
commenting on the day. 
 
"Yes, Sir, it's a beautiful day and I thought, yes I think it would be perfect for a 
picnic." 
 
Sam smiled as the fire caught and with his pans, he prepared their meal. He had 
brought quite a basket filled with edibles -- sausages, bread, tomatoes, potatoes, apple 
pie, several cakes, muffins, and fresh fruit. Shaking his head, Frodo turned, and with 
a laugh, leaped back into the water. He swam to the side of the waterfall and finding 
a convenient rock, crawled out to sunbathe. 
*** 
The stranger watched the two small figures in amusement. That gardener seemed very 
protective of his master, and he couldn't miss the slight blush on the hobbit's face 
when he glanced over to see the dark haired one's bare skin. 
 
A little while later, the gardener was about to start peeling the potatoes when he 
looked at his charge and shrugged. 
 
"Mr. Frodo, you'd better turn over, or by the time you get home, your backside will be 
burnt like bread left in an oven for too long!" 
 
Sighing blissfully, the hobbit turned and at once showed off the other side of his 
body. The watching stranger did not miss how the gardener's blush deepened at the 
sight of his master's well proportioned front. His body was perfect to behold, having 
curves that gave the added effect. The Ranger had no doubt this hobbit must have a 
great many drooling admirers. 
 
Frodo seemed to no longer mind his privacy being intruded upon by his gardener and 
closed his eyes. With a smile of contentment, he placed his hands behind his head and 
lifted one leg up in a slight bend , having no idea that the last movement made him 
look even more desirable. A ripe apple just waiting to be plucked. 
 
The stranger in his hiding place had to move slightly as his pants suddenly got a bit 
tight in a certain area. He groaned painfully as the growing desire washed over him. 
*** 
 
"So are you going to tell me *why* you followed me, Sam?" 
 
Samwise Gamgee looked up from his fire and glanced at his Master, trying to hide the 
red tinge in his cheeks by looking into his pack. 
 
"Whatever do you mean, Mr. Frodo?" 
 
"Sam, I left a note that I would be back this evening and since the rosebushes along 
the fence needed trimming, I figured you would have your hands full in the garden. 
Surely you did not need to tend to me as well." 
 
Sam only scoffed and looking up, there was a small bit of hurt dwelling in his eyes. 
 
"I would never neglect the garden. If you are not happy with my work you can 
always ask my old Gaffer to..." 
 
He never got to finish. Frodo suddenly sat bolt upright, staring back at his friend in 
obvious surprise. 
 
"Oh no Sam, that is not what I meant. Honestly, you are the best in all the Shire, and I 
wouldn't want anyone tending to Bilbo's...my garden..." He amended his words 
hastily. He sighed, still having a hard time coming to terms with Bilbo's leaving and 
the fact that he was the Master of Bag End now. "Really, its just that I know you had 
lots to do and I was curious as to why you would bother with me." 
 
Sam paused for a moment and then, picking up a large blanket, brought it over and 
covered Frodo with it. Taking a step back, he shrugged and mumbled under his 
breath, "It is almost midday and the sun will show your skin no mercy, Mr. Frodo -- 
you should stay covered a bit." 
 
Turning away, Sam stopped when Frodo stood up and reached out to touch his 
gardener's hand. 
 
"Sam?" 
 
Sighing again, but without looking back Sam gave in and confessed his motives for 
coming after his Master: 
 
"I was worried you were feeling lonely again. I just wanted to make sure you were all 
right, I didn't mean to cause no fuss. Besides, you sometimes get thinking so much 
that you forget things, especially eating. I promised Mr. Bilbo I would look after you 
when he...when he went away, though at the time, I didn't think he really would. But 
I gave my word and...and a promise is a promise." 
 
Tilting his head to the side, Frodo's blue eyes widened in happiness and gently, his 
hands touched his gardener's shoulders. Sam felt himself pulled back to face his 
master and was not surprised to see the blanket he had given Frodo slowly slipping 
down onto the ground. Their eyes met, and Sam thought for sure he was going to 
drown in that blue gaze. 
 
"Samwise Gamgee, my dearest Sam. I don't deserve you." 
 
"Begging your pardon, but I think I know what you deserve, Mr. Frodo." 
 
Frodo grinned and his face drew in even closer. Their noses were now almost 
touching. 
 
"And then what do I deserve, Mr. Gamgee?" he replied with all the love he could 
place in his voice. 
 
Suddenly put on the spot, Samwise started to blush once more and was about to 
retreat when Frodo's hands gently took hold of Sam's face. 
 
"Please, Sam. Tell me." 
 
He finally let go of the breath he was holding and confessed. 
 
"When I first laid eyes on you, I said to my mama, that you were one needing to be 
looked after. I swore right then and there that someday I would be taking care of 
you." 
 
"Sam, are you saying...that you love me?" 
 
Sam opened his mouth to respond and then closed it again. His eyes stared fearfully 
at his master and again he was about to make a hasty retreat when Frodo smiled 
warmly into his eyes. 
 
"Oh Sam, you are a treasure. I can't tell you when, I only know that for many years 
since I came to live at Bag End I could hardly wait to see you come to work in the 
garden. Ever since my parents died, I have felt like an outcast. Never really a part of 
Brandy Hall when I was a child, I never really felt as if I belonged. I always felt 
different from all the other children and they always made sure to let me know that I 
was. Bilbo has been the only one I ever allowed to get close to me, and then he just 
leaves. He left me behind and I felt so alone, so lost. I still can't believe it, even right 
now, I really don't feel like I am the Heir and Master of Bag End. But just when 
things seemed to get their worst, I woke up to see you come trailing up the hill, 
singing a merry tune. All the pain and darkness vanished and I know I can get 
through the day once more. Because I have my Sam, who will never leave me. Will 
you, Sam?" 
 
A tear fell from Frodo's eyes, and Sam's eyes misted up in return. He didn't even 
hesitate. 
 
"I'll never leave you, Mr. Frodo. Never." 
 
In a moment, the two hobbits felt as if they were the only ones left in the world. They 
reached out for each other and just as Frodo and Sam were about to experience their 
first kiss, a loud cry broke the spell and a splash was heard, followed by a drenching 
spout of water. 
 
Sputtering in surprise, Sam turned to the pond to see a familiar little form smiling and 
giggling, swimming towards the embankment and giving Frodo one long adoring 
look. 
 
"Weeeee, hi Sam, hi Frodo, come on in -- the water is fine. The more, the merrier!" 
 
He giggled some more and splashed even more water in their direction. 
 
"Peregrin Took, I aught to skin you alive for nearly trying to drown Mr. Frodo." 
 
"I am sorry Sam. But I just couldn't help it, after all, I only got to see the backside of 
my favorite cousin and I so wanted to see the front." 
 
Grinning devilishly he looked on at his naked cousin, who continued to stare open 
mouthed at him. Recovering from the assault and realizing his state of undress, Frodo 
quickly grabbed the fallen blanket to cover himself up again. 
 
"Pippin? What are you doing here?" 
 
"Here to visit you, right, Merry?" 
 
A movement from behind a tree caused them all turn to see a blond haired hobbit 
making his way slowly towards them, munching on an apple, and giving Frodo and 
Sam a very sly grin. 
 
"We came not only for a visit but also the view, and I must say the view from here is 
quite good!" 
 
Now blushing furiously, Frodo sat down beside the fire and muttered angrily in 
words only he understood. Sam, however, eyed the two young hobbits and wearily 
prepared to give them a lecture until Merry threw down his apple and, taking off his 
shirt, leaped into the pond. 
 
Watching the two cousins swim contentedly, Sam shook his head, and joined Frodo 
by the fire. With a long, sad look, he returned to tending to the meal. The moment 
was gone, but both knew without a doubt that the moment would come again -- when 
they did not have an audience. 
 
Minutes later, the area was filled with the laughter of four young hobbits, as Pippin 
and Merry told Sam and Frodo all about their newest adventures. Seeing that supper 
was ready and without even waiting for an invitation, the two helped themselves to a 
lavish meal of potatoes, sausage and cakes, gorging themselves with abandon. Frodo 
watched his cousins eat as if they hadn't in days and smiled at Sam's open frown with 
a look that begged for patience. 
 
Once they were all settled with their food, Frodo turned to his cousins, puzzled. 
 
"What?" asked Merry, stuffing his face with some of the bread that Sam brought for 
the picnic. 
 
"How did you two know I was here? In my secret hideaway." 
 
Pippin giggled and with a mouthful of potatoes, responded, "Secret? We've known of 
your secret lair for years." 
 
Merry cut in with a hearty laugh. "Seven years ago, while visiting you and Uncle 
Bilbo, we saw you wander off one day. Curious, we followed you. You never even 
saw us. See, we can be quiet." 
 
"Sometimes," said Pippin. "Hey -- pass the butter!" 
 
Frodo sighed and shook his head, handing Pip the requested item. "Am I not allowed 
any secrets? At all?" he asked to no one in particular. 
 
Pippin continued with a gentle smile. "When we saw that you weren't home and Sam 
was gone too, we put two and two together and came here straight away. Good thing 
too, after all, who would've helped you with eating all this food? Sam, you really 
know how to cook. Better then my ma's cooking." 
 
Sam ignored the praise and snorted. He still had not totally forgiven Pippin for his 
poor timing that had ruined his moment with Frodo. It seemed like forever he had 
longed for his Master and just when he was about to have that long awaited cake, he 
found he was going to have to wait a little bit longer. 
 
Finishing their meal, Sam started to clean up, while Frodo returned to his rock by the 
waterfalls. Curling himself up in his blanket, he stared sadly at the splashing water, 
losing himself within the beauty of nature. Glancing over at Pippin to see that he was 
back in the water swimming, Merry joined Frodo on the rock. For a few moments, a 
silence hung in the air and then finally, he spoke. "Frodo? Are you all right?" 
 
Lowering his eyes, Frodo refused to look at his cousin. 
 
"We didn't mean to spoil your secret hideaway. If you want to be alone, we'll leave. 
Its just...." 
 
"I know, I know. Bilbo told you to watch over me." 
 
"You haven't been the same since he left. We were worried." 
 
"I'm fine." Frodo finally turned and faced Merry. He tried again to lay their fears to 
rest. "Really, I'm fine..." 
 
"No, you're not fine. Frodo, you don't laugh like you used to. You've lost weight, 
Sam doesn't have to tell me you haven't been eating right, and those circles under 
your eyes tell me you haven't been sleeping well either. I'm also not stupid. I know 
what day today is." 
 
Frodo looked away. His eyes welled up with tears, and closing them, tightly, he 
sighed. "It just takes time to get used to living alone. That's all." 
 
Being alone was what he really meant, but somehow he had stopped those particular 
words from coming out. 
 
"I could move in with you. I know my da would have a bit of a fit, but I could -- after 
all, I am an adult now and allowed to make my own decisions. Then, you wouldn't be 
all alone." 
 
Frodo smiled sadly and picking up a few small pebbles, dropping them into the water. 
They caused several small circles of waves to fan out over the pond. 
 
"Brandy Hall hasn't been the same since you left. I missed you." 
 
"Have you? You have Pippin." 
 
Merry glanced out at the pond to see Pippin swimming towards them with a silly grin 
on his face and making funny noises in the water. 
 
"Its not the same. I love Pip, but he's not you." 
 
Frodo felt the hands press against his own and Frodo pulled gently away. 
 
"You were the only one that really understood me, and...and I enjoyed being with 
you...." 
 
"Please Merry...don't...." 
 
Merry sighed and saw Frodo glance at Sam meaningfully. Sam was now kneeling at 
the far end of the pond cleaning his pots and pans, not seeing Frodo and Merry's 
interlude. Merry backed away a few inches. 
 
"I see." He then smiled lightly at his cousin. "Well, just make sure he fattens you up a 
bit, you're getting way too skinny." 
 
Frodo turned to smile at Merry, when a loud splash erupted, causing all of them to 
turn to the embankment to see that another uninvited guest had appeared. 
 
"Is this a private party or can anyone join in?!" 
 
Frodo gasped in surprise to see a dark haired hobbit holding several rocks in his hands 
skim them across the water; he had nearly hit Pippin as he swam towards Frodo and 
surely would have if Pippin hadn't ducked his head under. 
 
Rising to his feet, Merry saw Pippin come up gasping for air in front of him. 
 
"Lotho!" Frodo indignantly got to his own feet and quickly made his way over 
towards the unwanted Hobbit. "Stop throwing those rocks -- you could have hurt 
Pippin!" 
 
"Make me, Frodo Baggins!" Lotho sarcastically yelled and proceeded to throw several 
more rocks. 
 
Seeing this, Merry snatched Pippin literally out of the water and to safety, holding 
him back behind himself. Narrowing his eyes, Merry shot a dangerous look at the 
intruder. His hands fisted and it was obvious that Merry was fighting with his better 
judgment not to tear Lotho to pieces. 
 
"Enough!" Frodo quickly got in front of Lotho and stared him down. "No one invited 
you here. Go away, this is a part of my property given to me by Bilbo and I forbid 
you to come here ever again!" 
 
"Is it now? Property that should have belonged to me and my Mother. Property that 
you stole from us." 
 
"I have stolen nothing. Bilbo rightfully left it to me. Lobelia saw the papers. They 
were all legal and binding." 
 
"You have no right to be the Master of Bag End. Even when you were at Brandy 
Hall, it was obvious something was wrong with you. You never did fit in, always 
talking to the animals as if they could actually understand you, telling stories about 
elves and trying to learn Elvish like them, always reading books and going off on 
adventures. You didn't belong there and you certainly DON'T belong here either. You 
are nothing but a ratty orphan, stealing things that don't belong to you. Look at you. 
You with those blue eyes and fair skin. You don't even look like a real hobbit. Well, 
not a male one anyway. Perhaps that's it. Perhaps nature made a big mistake and you 
should have been a girl hobbit. You certainly have all the appearance of a girl with 
those lush full eyelashes of yours. Oh yes, let's have a look, shall we!" 
 
With a triumphant smile, he grabbed the blanket from Frodo's fingers and yanked it 
away. Sent off balance, Frodo fell backwards landing hard on his bottom. Staring up 
in surprise and horror, Frodo saw Lotho stare lustfully down at him. 
 
"Hmm, well I must say, nature certainly made you well endowed. Perhaps before 
these others get their fill of you, I could perhaps take first dibs. After all you have 
taken from us Sacksville-Bagginses, it would only be fair...." 
 
*** 
 
This had gone on quite long enough.  The Ranger prepared to stand and defend HIS 
hobbit when someone took matters into their own hands. 
*** 
 
THWANG! 
 
Merry had been just about ready to make his own move when Samwise Gamgee beat 
him to the punch. Literally. Lotho stood stock still for a moment and then a second 
later, he fell flat on his back. 
 
Standing over Lotho with enraged eyes, Sam held up one of his prized pans which he 
had used to hit Lotho right in the face. Narrowing his eyes, he glared down at Lotho. 
 
"You shut your dirty little mouth, you're not fit to look at my Master or call him 
names, you piece of filth. You ever say such things to my Master again or ever come 
near him, I'll give you a thrashing you won't soon forget or my name's not Samwise 
Gamgee!" 
 
Lotho slowly got to his feet, backing away, as he watched Sam lower the pan. The 
gardener reached down to collect the blanket and proceeded to cover Frodo's body. 
 
"I-I, I will get the Shariff on you for this! How dare you strike me! I will have you 
put in the stocks!" 
 
But as he went to get up, Merry came out of nowhere and gave Lotho a punch right 
dead center on the nose. Crying out in pain, Lotho backed up further in retreat. 
 
"You're not going to get the Shariff or tell anyone anything. Because if you do, I will 
inform Lobelia how you and Buddy Prattlefoot fancy each other." 
 
Stuttering in shock and holding his now bleeding nose, Lotho stared in horror at 
Merry Brandybuck. "That's a lie!" 
 
"Is it? Gee, I could've sworn that was you and Buddy out in Mr. Gaffin's wheat field 
last week with not a stitch of clothing between the two of you! Or how about last 
month, you and Agnes Grover were in the Mill up by Strattlefield. Perhaps I'll tell 
Lobelia all about that encounter at mid twilight!" 
 
Lotho gasped, turned and without another word, fled. 
 
Two apples hit him in the back, expertly thrown by one Peregrin Took, "And good 
riddance to ya!" Pip cried after him. 
 
Grinning, the three turned to look at Frodo to see that he was still sitting on the grass. 
Now covered in the blanket, he had buried his face into the cloth. 
 
"Mr. Frodo? Are you-?" 
"Frodo?" 
 
Seeing his body shaking slightly and concerned that Frodo was truly traumatized by 
Lotho's words, they were about to approach him and offer comfort when Frodo 
suddenly lifted his head, laughing uncontrollably. He gathered all three into his arms. 
 
"My heroes!" he shouted to all the world to hear. 
 
Sam, Pippin and Merry joined in laughing long and loud with their dearest friend. 
Frodo gave each of them a kiss, although Merry and Pippin were not surprised to see 
that Sam was the only one who got his kiss right smack on the lips. They were also 
not surprised that Sam turned beat red like a ripe tomato. 
 
With everything packed and Frodo now fully dressed, the four hobbits slowly made 
their way to Bag End. As they walked, Pippin and Merry talked on and on about the 
latest gossip, having already forgotten all about Lotho's interruption to their picnic. As 
for Frodo and Sam, they quietly walked behind them, smiling and holding hands. 
*** 
 
He watched the Hobbits leave the pond and, now rising to his feet, he slowly made 
his way to his horse. Smiling to himself, he knew that he was no longer needed -- at 
least not right now. This special little hobbit had all the protection he would need. 
Climbing on his steed, The Ranger made his way for Bree. As he did he couldn't help 
but allow his thoughts to turn back and reflect upon seeing the unique blue eyed 
hobbit, Frodo Baggins. 
 
He hoped that someday they would see each other again. For, much like his faithful 
companions, The Ranger would find it an honor to protect and watch over this gentle 
hobbit, perhaps even meet face to face and get to know him more intimately. In the 
meantime, he would make certain his fellow Rangers would continue to guard the 
borders of the Shire. 
 
Strider now realized and agreed that Gandalf had found in all Middle-Earth a 
treasure worth protecting. 
 
2/10 
 
He couldn’t stop thinking about Sam.  Ever since he had discovered that the gentle 
and quiet gardener returned his affections, Frodo Baggins couldn’t get Sam out of his 
thoughts. 
 
He knew he should be concerning himself with preparing to leave Bag End.  Already 
plans had been set in motion for him to head to Bree.  Gandalf felt that the ring Bilbo 
had entrusted to Frodo was of some diabolical evil, and needed to be taken out of the 
Shire.  Though Frodo loved and trusted Gandalf, the small hobbit couldn’t help but 
waste his days pondering why HE, Frodo,  had to be the one to leave the Shire 
carrying the ring.  He wanted nothing more then to stay in his home and see where his 
relationship with Sam could go. 
 
No, Frodo knew that within the week he would have to heed Gandalf’s plea and 
leave.  He wouldn’t go alone, of course. Samwise had been caught eavesdropping and 
had somehow convinced Gandalf to let him make the journey with Frodo.  At the 
time, Frodo had liked the idea of having company, but his growing affection for Sam 
and the fear of what might happen on this journey was giving Frodo second thoughts. 
 
Oh, why did life have to be so complicated?  Frodo wanted to stay in the Shire and 
just forget the world’s troubles. 
 
Closing his eyes, Frodo sank low in the steaming hot tub, freshly poured out for him a 
half an hour ago by Sam.  From his window view, Frodo could hear Sam singing in 
the garden, working away without a care in the world. 
 
Pushing all his concerns aside, Frodo allowed himself to slip into a blissful day dream. 
 A dream he had been fantasizing since he last visited his secret hideaway. 
*** 
 
The water cascaded over them, the two hobbits who were barely aware of the cold 
mountain water splashing against their skin, as they held each other in a close 
embrace. 
 
Even before they arrived, Frodo could feel the burning arousal in anticipation of what 
was to come.  Now, standing naked under the waterfall, he could barely suppress the 
desire fueled by Sam’s equally naked body pressed against him. 
 
Frodo had many times in his life been complimented on his striking elvish beauty but 
he couldn’t deny the beauty of Samwise Gamgee, who looked like the sun itself. 
 Frodo ran his fingers through the golden mane of curls and gently reached up for a 
light kiss on the lips.  Sam returned the kiss hungrily, opening his mouth and allowing 
Frodo to explore the hot recesses within. 
 
Frodo moaned in contentment, feeling himself harden even more, and felt Sam’s 
body responding. 
 
No more words needed to be said, and they caressed each other with gentle touches. 
 Sam’s fingers explored the hollow of Frodo’s neck and chest, while Frodo enjoyed 
sliding his arms up and down Sam’s back, enjoying the feel of the golden tanned 
 skin. 
 
It was their first time and Frodo wanted the moment to last forever.  They needed 
this time to learn what touches brought the greatest pleasure and the most responses. 
Smiling, Frodo broke the kiss and embrace and turned his back to Sam. 
 
Staying close, Frodo leaned his head back against the hollow of Sam’s neck and felt 
Sam’s arms wrap firmly around his waist.  The lips and tongue now nipped at his 
collarbone and Frodo felt himself moan in pure bliss.  Frodo joined his hands with 
Sam’s and together they remained nuzzling and cuddling, happy to be in each other’s 
arms, and content in their peaceful sanctuary. 
 
It was the calm before the storm.  Frodo’s mind darkened slightly.  He could almost 
feel the darkness coming, invading his private moment with Sam.  Frodo turned and 
gripped Sam tightly against him, wanting to banish the darkness from his mind and 
knowing only Sam could make it all go away. 
 
The sun shone brightly above them, but dark gray clouds were coming in, threatening 
to shatter this precious moment.  Closing his eyes tightly, Frodo allowed himself to be 
lowered on the rocks, and could feel Sam pressing himself hard against his chest. 
 Frodo writhed and cried out as the need became unbearable. 
 
“Sam, Sam please!”  he cried.  He needed Sam now, needed to feel his member deep 
inside his body.  Needed to feel whole and one.  Needed to know that here and now 
he was truly loved.  He needed, oh how he needed... 
 
But a harsh laugh was the only reply to his words. 
 
Frodo felt his body go cold and fear began to grip his mind.  Opening his eyes, Frodo 
was horrified to see that he was no longer under the waterfall.  Instead, he seemed to 
be on a stone bridge and all around him were hewn rock and flame.  Shaking, Frodo 
tried to rise, but that was when he saw the eye.  The dark, red burning eye. 
 
He tried to scream, he tried to run, but there was nowhere to go except into the lava, 
 below the bridge.  Turning to the opening of the cave, he could see Sam, looking so 
far away, and yet so near.  He was screaming something towards him.  There was 
horror on his face, fear and pain.  Frodo made out only one word screaming from his 
mouth. 
 
“NO!” 
 
Frodo tried to go towards him, to join Sam and take away the fear that seemed to be 
pouring deep into his very soul. But Frodo stopped when he saw a dark looming 
creature coming up behind his gardener, moving towards the one he loved.  A dark 
mass struck a deadly blow from behind and Frodo watched in horror as Sam fell to 
ground.  He lay unmoving and still as death. 
 
It was just then Frodo screamed and fell. 
*** 
Frodo cried out and floundered in the cooling tub.  He gasped for breath and shivered 
in recollection. 
 
It had only been a dream.  That’s all.  Swallowing, Frodo sighed and counted the 
seconds when Sam would be tearing down the door to see if his Master was alright. 
 No doubt Sam had probably heard his cry.  But after thirty seconds, Frodo realized 
Sam wasn’t coming. 
 
Maybe he hadn’t heard?  Good, it was just as well.  Silly, there he was having a 
wonderful dream and all this Gandalf and ring business destroyed it.  Getting up 
from the tub, Frodo wrapped himself tightly in one of his towels, vowing that no 
matter what he was going to make his dream with Sam at the waterfall a reality. 
 
Today, he would pack a picnic basket and tell Sam to take the day off, and together 
they would go to his secret lair.  They would spend the day in each other’s arms, 
enjoying the new love they had found in each other. 
 
Reaching for his clothes, Frodo paused when he spotted something outside the 
window.  There was Sam by the fence. Sam had stopped singing and trimming the 
rose bushes and was talking to someone by the gate.  Blinking, Frodo recognized 
Rose Cotton.  She was smiling at Sam and seemed to be talking urgently over 
something important.  Then, just like that, she reached over the fence and kissed Sam 
on the lips. 
 
Frodo felt his blood turn to ice. Horrified by the scene, he pulled away and hurriedly 
left the bath house, not daring to look back. 
 
In such haste, Frodo did not see Sam pull away from the unexpected kiss, nor hear 
him tell Rose Cotton that he was already spoken for. 
*** 
He did not watch Rosie run down path in tears at his rejection, instead returning to 
his trimming.  He did feel a bit sad for hurting Rosie, but Sam knew she would find 
someone else. Besides, he intended to finish trimming the rose bushes by noon and 
talk to Frodo about going for a long walk together. Maybe even go for a picnic at his 
Master’s favorite hideaway. Sighing contentedly, Sam couldn’t wait to hold Frodo in 
his arms and explore that wonderful hot mouth of his. 
*** 
 
Frodo closed the door to his bedroom and laid quietly down on his bed.  Tears ran 
down his cheeks.  He tried to stop them but it was useless.  How could he have 
misread all that Sam had said to him?  Surely when Sam confessed he loved his 
Master he meant it literally, not love like a friend or family member?  But he saw it 
with his own eyes.  Rose and Sam. Together.  Kissing. 
 
It was normal, Frodo tried to reason with himself.  It was right.  The relationship with 
him and Sam would never work.  Besides why shouldn’t Sam want Rose, she was 
beautiful and friendly and sweet.  She was one of the kindest hobbits he knew.  But 
Frodo felt the pain tighten in his chest, and curling up into a ball, Frodo realized the 
truth.  Didn’t Bilbo just up and leave him?  Didn’t Lotho himself say it plainly? 
 
*You didn't belong there and you certainly DON'T belong here either. You are 
nothing but a ratty orphan, stealing things that don't belong to you.* 
 
He didn’t belong here, he never did.  Why was he destined to always be alone? Why 
did the Valar hate him so?  First they took his parents, then Bilbo and now Sam, his 
Sam.  Closing his eyes, Frodo silently wept.  Why doesn’t anyone love me? 
 
When a knock came at his door an hour later, Frodo answered it curtly. 
 
“Yes.” 
 
“Mr. Frodo, are you going to come on out?  It’s time for lunch.” 
 
Frodo swallowed, and with an effort, he kept his voice neutral and soft. 
 
“Not right now Sam, I’m tired.  I want to sleep.  Why don’t you head home?  I’ll see 
you tomorrow.” 
 
Tomorrow.  Yes, tomorrow he would finish his tears and by then he would be his old 
self again.  Frodo would tell Sam how happy he was for him and Rose Cotton, he 
would even laugh.  But not today.  No, not today. 
 
*** 
 
Sam stood at the door confused.  A part of him told him to open this door and see 
what was wrong with his Master and maybe even provide him some comfort in his 
arms.  But Sam was torn between his love for Frodo and his place as a simple 
gardener in Frodo’s employ.  Sighing and with great hesitation, Sam turned and 
glancing back, he vowed that tomorrow he would come back and find out exactly 
what was going on.  Tomorrow. 
 
As Sam headed for home his mind turned to other thoughts.  A dream actually, a 
dream he promised himself would be fulfilled.  A dream where Frodo was in his arms, 
standing under a water fall, making love to him.   It was only a fantasy, but one that 
Sam would do his best to make come true. 
 
*** 
Stripping off the last layers of clothing, the tall rugged ranger dived into the cool 
refreshing pool of water, making his way slowly towards the waterfall.  All around 
him the sounds of nature were calling him. Birds singing, the sun shining and not a 
cloud in the sky.  It was a bit warm, but nothing unbearable, a perfect day to take a 
long-needed bath. 
 
Under the spray, he allowed the water to cascade down his body.  He rubbed softly 
at his skin, slowly ridding himself of the dirt and grime he had resigned himself to 
since he became a ranger of the north. 
 
There was a time in his younger days, while living in Rivendell, that he wouldn’t go a 
day without a long cleansing bath.  But in the wild, he would often go weeks before 
he could allow himself such a luxury. 
 
He closed his gray-blue eyes and allowed his mind to drift away.  It wasn’t long 
though, before a distinct sound from behind him reopened his eyes.  Turning to his 
left, he blinked in surprise to see a familiar looking creature staring up at him a few 
feet away. 
 
He was just as naked as Strider, and it was quite obvious that the creature had come 
for his own private bath and was shocked to not only find his secret hideaway being 
occupied by someone, but by a human no less. 
 
He tried to smile to reassure the hobbit that he meant no harm, but still the gentle 
hobbit gazed at him.  Only his eyes no longer looked shocked, but impressed. They 
roamed over his body in obvious adoration. 
 
He smiled wider, and intended to step away, when the hobbit slowly stepped 
forward. 
 
Without a word the two came together under the waterfall.  There eyes locked.  Gray 
eyes met blue and both were inquisitive and shy as if not sure what to do next. 
 
He was about to speak when the young hobbit reached for him.  His hands roved 
gently over Strider’s thighs and waist, exploring this unknown territory.  He paused a 
moment, then continued when he realized the human would not stop him. 
 
Surprised by the Hobbit’s curiosity, he allowed the touch and groaned as his sensitive 
skin tingled at the feeling of those hands. 
 
When the hobbit paused, the Ranger opened his eyes and knelt.  Now level with the 
hobbit, he took his turn reaching out to touch the wet dark brown curls of his hair. 
 The hair was as smooth and soft as he had imagined, and the skin was like silk. Not 
sure whether he would scare the hobbit, he gently moved forward, making sure that 
the hobbit could see exactly what he was doing.  He wanted a taste of that mouth. 
 That beautiful little mouth. 
 
The hobbit closed his blue eyes, and responded in kind, opening his mouth. 
 
Lips touched lightly at first, then moved closer and harder.  He bit, gently causing the 
hobbit to open his mouth, and the man’s tongue delved deep into the warmth. 
 
The sensations were causing his body to respond and as he clung to the hobbit, he 
could feel the response was returned. 
 
He knew he could not risk penetration, he had no special oils that would make the 
moment easier and besides he did not know how far the hobbit was willing to explore 
the strange human that was in his homeland. 
 
His curiosity was rewarded, however, when the Ranger felt Frodo’s hands reach out 
and began to touch other parts of his body.  He stroked the Rangers back; his waist; 
even dared to touch the white round mounds of his bottom. 
 
Blissfully the Ranger could hear the Hobbit’s whimpers, responding to his touches 
and taste.  He did not understand what was happening, nor did he care.  Aragorn 
decided to go with the moment before him, and pulling Frodo closer into his arms, he 
continued to lay kisses and gentle nips on Frodo’s neck, ears and collarbone. 
 
In reply the hobbit seemed to melt in his arms. Seconds later, Aragorn lowered Frodo 
onto the rock and mounted him.  Their bodies converged together and in their heated 
passion they began to move against each other, building a momentum and friction that 
pleased both their growing arousal. 
 
The pace picked up as the hobbit tried to increase his thrusts and the Ranger met them 
with strength and gentleness.  The urge came to its climax seconds later when the 
Ranger felt the hobbit shake suddenly underneath him, and warm semen hit his 
thighs. Looking down at the hobbit, he saw Frodo open his mesmerizing blue eyes 
and moaned, lost in his own reverie.  Overcome by the hobbit’s passion, he came 
crying out Frodo’s name and all the while the Hobbit held on tight. Never releasing 
his hold over the human. 
 
When the moment passed and he had recovered sufficiently, Aragorn stared down 
lovingly at the creature and began to stroke his wet curls from that elf like face. 
 
“With my sword, my heart and soul, I will protect and love you all the days of your 
life.” 
 
Hearing this, the Hobbit smiled in contentment. 
 
*** 
 
Opening his eyes, it took Aragorn several seconds to realize he was not at the 
waterfall but nestled under a tree.  Morning was coming and he would be arriving in 
Bree by late afternoon.  Sighing, he winced when he felt the hardness between his 
legs.  It brought back the dream.  Only a dream. 
 
As he packed up his belongings, ignoring the throbbing between his legs, Aragorn 
grimaced, thinking about the erotic dream.  Ever since he had laid eyes on that hobbit, 
he had not been able to stop thinking about Frodo Baggins.  He realized the halfling 
was slowly becoming an obsession and he knew it was not wise to keep dwelling on 
the impossible. 
 
Frodo Baggins, first of all, was obviously in love with his gardener and second, 
Aragorn, himself was already spoken for.  In Rivendell, Arwen waited for him. 
He was only supposed to be looking after the halfling and making sure he was safe 
and sound, not fall in love with him. 
 
Getting onto his horse, he wiped his tired eyes and tried to focus on the matters at 
hand. Gandalf was waiting for him in Bree and wished to speak to him on urgent 
business that had something to do with the nameless fear in the East. Aragorn had to 
keep his mind focused, as he realized that falling in love with a hobbit was even 
worse then having fallen in love with an immortal elf princess.  Both were impossible 
fantasies. 
 
Shaking his head, he headed down the nearest path that would lead him to Bree and 
on to whatever the future had in store for him. 
 
3/4 
 
He was big, scruffy, smelled like horse and looked like a wild man from the 
mountains. A ranger, he had been told, dangerous. Frodo had never felt so intrigued 
or attracted to a human male before. 
 
All right, so this was the first real human he had ever met, so what? Frodo found he 
had to really focus on his breathing while in the presence of the man. 
 
Frodo couldn't believe all that had happened in the past few days. It all seemed to be 
like a whirlwind, possibly a dream. Or a nightmare. 
 
He had made a mad dash out of the Shire and ever since, had been trying to evade 
some dark creatures that seemed to be hot on their trail. Accompanied by Sam and his 
two cousins, Frodo made his way to Bree, where he hoped Gandalf would be waiting 
for him. Instead, he arrived at the Inn of the Prancing pony to learn Gandalf that had 
not arrived and hadn't been seen in Bree in over six months. 
 
Fearful and more then a bit worried, Frodo had tried to relax with a few mugs of ale 
in the bar and wound up getting into even more trouble. It had been an accident, or 
had it? One moment, Frodo was attempting to silence Pippin from revealing his real 
name to the patrons in the bar, and the next, he was on the ground, invisible, with his 
Uncle's magic ring on his finger. So much for being incognito. 
 
It had been an honest mistake and one that Frodo tried to fix by removing the ring 
and hiding under a table. However, the next thing he knew, he was snatched up 
angrily by a tall, rugged looking man, dragged up the stairs and thrown into a private 
room. Now here he was -- alone and looking up at a mysterious man who appeared to 
be chastising him for his foolishness and all the while, Frodo had to keep himself from 
drooling over the human's appearance. 
 
Breathe, breathe, just remember to breathe. 
 
"Are you frightened?" 
 
"Yes." Frodo responded, wanting to say so much more and found he couldn't. 
 
"Not nearly frightened enough. I know what hunts you." 
 
Frodo never took his eyes off the human, and as the man paced the room snuffing out 
candles, the Hobbit felt his heart speed up. Ever since he had realized that Sam's love 
had turned to Rosie, he had accepted the fact that he would spend the rest of his life 
alone. He had tried to distance himself from Sam so as to allow his gardener to pursue 
his true interest. 
 
But Sam hadn't even looked back when they left the Shire, refusing to leave Frodo's 
side. It had been a grueling journey for the Master of Bag End and Frodo so wanted 
to throw himself into Sam's arms and plead with him to choose him over Rosie 
Cotton. Instead Frodo had chosen silence. Seeing Sam's ever increasing confusion 
and annoyance, Frodo was starting to have his doubts at what he had witnessed 
outside his window a week ago. But Sam did kiss Rosie. Well, Rosie kissed Sam and 
well, what ever happened afterwards he would never know because he had bolted 
like a deer. 
 
His Sam, his dear sweet Sam. He still loved him, completely and utterly but Frodo 
knew he had to let Sam go. It wasn't until after the attack at the Brandywine Bridge 
that Frodo realized he was being childish in running from the problem with Rosie. He 
was not a tweenager anymore and he would have to confront Sam and find out truly 
where Sam's heart lay. But not now -- he had too much to deal with as it was. 
 
The Ring that he now carried was pure evil and somehow, he had to get it as far as he 
could away from the Shire. If only Gandalf was here. If only Gandalf had taken the 
ring from him, then he could be home trying to woo Sam back into his arms. But what 
if Sam was already lost to him? How could he compete with Rosie Cotton. She was 
beautiful, kind and ...female. She could give him babies and all the things he couldn't. 
 
Oh, why do things have to be so complicated? And just when Frodo thought things 
couldn't get worse, he was now...staring at this human, this very handsome, scruffy 
looking human, and all his words seemed to be stuck in his throat. 
 
Breathe, just breathe, Frodo, told himself again. You are in love with Sam, you cannot 
possibly fall for a human. Especially one who hovered over you, reprimanding you on 
your foolishness at putting on the Ring after Gandalf specifically told you not to. 
 
Frodo felt his heart thump loudly in his chest and wondered what the man would 
look like smiling, washed...naked, and in bed. 
 
'ohhhh' Finding his courage at last, Frodo was about to ask the human his name when 
the door to the room slammed open and three angry, protective Hobbits came rushing 
in, ready to fight and take down anyone trying to harm there companion. For a 
moment, Frodo wanted to jump with joy and cry out, "My heroes" but then though 
better of it. 
 
Glancing at the man, Frodo could see the humorous glint he cast at his kin and 
gardener. It was not of annoyance, but genuine affection. It was there for a moment, 
and then gone. 
 
"Let him GO! Or I'll have you, Longshanks!" cried an enraged blond-haired Hobbit 
who held up his fists, ready to take on the human even though he was taller and 
obviously stronger. "You have a stout heart, little Hobbit, but that will not save you." 
The Ranger had grimaced and turned to Frodo. "You cannot wait for the wizard. 
They are coming." **** 
 
Aragorn watched the Hobbits sleep soundly in their beds, feeling more then a bit 
annoyed at himself. He hadn't meant to be so harsh with Frodo but when he had seen 
Frodo fall and then vanish in front of everyone in the bar room, Aragorn had felt his 
heart leap into his throat. He had sworn to protect the Hobbit at all costs and that 
foolish escapade had cost them dearly. Already he could feel the stillness and evil in 
the air. "They" would soon arrive. 
 
He would have to get the Hobbits out of there and take them to a place of safety. The 
only place that came to mind was Rivendell. His foster father would be able to look 
after the Hobbits until he could locate the missing Gandalf. Aragorn cast a long look 
at the bed and saw that Frodo was tossing restlessly in his sleep. Poor Hobbit. He did 
feel guilty for chastising Frodo. 
 
Upon seeing those frightened blue eyes as he scolded the halfling, Aragorn had tried 
to soften his tone of voice. A little too late, Frodo now looked at him with eyes like a 
startled horse ready to bolt at any sudden movement. He had envisioned meeting 
Frodo so many ways, but this had not been the one he had dreamed of. Just before 
Sam and Frodo's cousins had broken into the room Aragorn had paused his reprimand 
for a moment fighting a sudden urge to hold and kiss the Hobbit to make up for the 
fright he had caused. The entrance of his kin put that thought out of his head. 
 
Aragorn was still amused when the blond Hobbit had threatened the Ranger with his 
fists, all in an effort to protect his master from harm. The gardener had no idea that he 
was outmatched in fighting skills and yet, he still was ready to defend Frodo to the 
end. Perhaps even to death. That was one very brave Hobbit. Cute too. Especially 
when angry, his eyes just puffed out and those lips and cheeks. Aragorn dropped his 
head in his hand and sighed. 
 
Wonderful. Not only was he still dealing with lusting after the Master of Bag End but 
also the Master's gardener. When did this get all so complicated? Falling for one 
Hobbit was bad enough, especially with Arwen waiting for him in Rivendell, but to 
now feel something for two Hobbits was getting to be ridiculous. Why were his 
emotions getting so out of control? What was it that made these Hobbits so alluring? 
 
'The eyes? Both of them had the most interesting eyes, ones that you could drown in. 
Was it their innocence? Their purity of heart? The love they so obviously carried for 
one another? What was---?' 
 
The sound of a scream pulled his thoughts to the present, and Aragorn stared out the 
window, his worst fears realized. The Nazgul had come. The Hobbits all awoke to the 
sounds of high-pitched screams and the sound of swords slashing. Frodo, the most 
frightened, had climbed nearly out of the bed in one jump and if Aragorn didn't know 
better, nearly into his arms. The Hobbit seemed on the verge of doing just that when 
he suddenly sat back down on the edge of the bed, trying to keep the fear out of his 
eyes. He failed miserably and Aragorn ached to reach out and console the now 
trembling creature in his arms. 
 
"What are they?" Frodo asked. 
 
Aragorn told them the story of the Nazgul, all the while continuing his vigil at the 
window. A part of him wanted to shield the Hobbits from the truth and of the evil 
that was hunting them, but something inside made him tell them everything in the 
hopes that they would understand the peril they were in. 
 
Long after the Nazgul had departed and the other Hobbits had fallen back to sleep, 
Aragorn saw Frodo remain sitting on the edge of the bed, staring off into the 
distance, his face darkened with a growing fear. It was indeed obvious that Frodo 
realized he was in way over his head and that his gardener and cousins were in grave 
danger. He no longer looked like the Master of Bag End but a child lost at sea. 
Aragorn watched him, feeling more then just pity and compassion for the alarmed 
Hobbit. 
 
"Frodo, they are gone for now. Try to get some sleep." 
 
Frodo only continued to stare at the wall, the dread still evident in his eyes. Aragorn 
rose from his place and bending low, he reached out, cupping the small face in his 
hands. Turning those eyes towards him, he smiled gently at the Hobbit, hoping to rid 
that terrible fear from those beautiful, large blue eyes. 
 
"Don't be afraid, I will watch over you. No harm shall befall you. I promise!" Aragorn 
watched as Frodo's eyes started to fill with tears. Not knowing what else to do, 
Aragorn moved closer and hoping that he wouldn't get a knife in his throat, he kissed 
the Hobbit softly on the lips. It wasn't a deep, open kiss, but it was swift and light. 
The Hobbit froze in surprise, his eyes widening. Aragorn waited for the worst. 
 
He hadn't meant to do that. He had only meant to comfort the Hobbit but those big 
blue eyes filled with tears had overcome his better judgment and now that he had 
done it, he could not undo it. He waited for a long moment and then, just as he feared 
he'd made a big mistake, a slow smile appeared on Frodo's lips. The Hobbit then 
spoke softly and the words confused Aragorn but made sense to the halfling. 
 
"Someone to watch over me." With that smile on his lips, Frodo moved back into the 
bed and back into the position he'd held before being awoken by the screams of the 
Nazgul. 
 
Sam rolled beside him and somehow feeling his master's presence, his arms wrapped 
around his body, pulling him into a consoling embrace. Aragorn returned to his seat 
and gazed warily out the window, glancing back to see Frodo still smiling and staring 
warmly at him. 
 
The fear that had taken its hold had lessoned and the shadows were fading. Aragorn 
breathed a sigh of relief and was grateful that Frodo felt comforted and could now 
sleep in the arms of his gardener, protected by this scruffy ranger. When Aragorn 
woke the Hobbits in the morning the smile was still on Frodo's face. 
 
**** 
 
He was in Love. He was in love with Sam and Frodo felt a growing sensation of 
warm emotion for the Ranger who now guided them to Rivendell. 
 
Merry had been suspicious of Strider at first. He'd felt it would be better to stay 
where there were lots of people and that going into the wild was foolhardy. But 
Frodo was the leader of his kin and once Frodo put his foot down and told them that 
they would go with Strider, Merry had no choice but to grudgingly agree. 
 
Pippin seemed more upset about missing his meals then about the Nazgul or that they 
were heading for Rivendell. 
 
As for Sam, Frodo wasn't sure what he was thinking at the moment. He was taking up 
the rear and leading Bill the pony with most of their belongings. For this, Frodo was 
grateful. He needed time to sort out his thoughts and the new sensations he was 
feeling for the Ranger. Every time Strider would look back, Frodo felt butterflies in 
his stomach. 
 
Once, Strider chanced to look back just as Frodo was trying to imagine what the 
human looked like underneath all that clothing. Frodo met his eyes, and felt his 
cheeks redden. But he was also not watching where he was walking and tripped over 
a rock, flying head over heals on the hard terrain. Moments later, Frodo was 
surrounded by three concerned Hobbits and one worried human. Not one of my 
better moments, thought Frodo. 
 
**** 
 
What was the matter with Frodo? Sam just couldn't figure anything out. Ever since 
they left the Shire, Sam could feel Frodo pushing him away and it was driving Sam 
crazy. Frodo knew how he felt about him. Did Frodo suddenly change his mind? Did 
he suddenly realize it wasn't love that he felt for his gardener? Had Sam been played 
a fool? Sam had wanted so desperately to get Frodo alone so they could talk but 
when a brief opportunity came, Sam couldn't summon up the nerve to speak. After all, 
what could he say? Why don't you love me anymore? Have you stopped caring for 
me sounded well, childish. Silly even. Then the next thing he knew, Pippin and Merry 
were along for the ride and well, he just couldn't say anything with them around, now 
could he? 
 
Then there was this Strider. This mysterious Ranger. The moment he saw Strider 
snatch Frodo from the bar and take him away, Sam had felt terror unlike any he had 
ever known before. Even when the Gaffer had been at his most angry over his 
wayward son Sam had never been so frightened. He had promised Gandalf that he 
would look after Frodo and he meant to keep that promise. Those few minutes with 
Frodo out of his sight had been a feeling he never wanted to experience again. 
 
He had disliked the Ranger at first. But now as he led them to Rivendell, Sam had to 
say that Strider wasn't such a bad sort. Even if he was human. He didn't walk too fast 
and often set a pace that Frodo and the rest of them could keep up with. Strider also 
hunted and made sure they were, for the most part, fed. He also helped each of them, 
especially Frodo, if the terrain got a little too rough. He would even carry Frodo in his 
arms if the need arose. Sam thought that maybe he should be jealous or even 
protective of his Master being carried around by a human but instead, Sam had to 
marvel at the strength of the man. There was more to this Ranger then his looks. He 
had a walk and speech about him that made him stand out, although Sam didn't think 
he was especially attractive, not with all that dirt and hair on his face, but he was 
fascinating. 
 
Looking back at his Master, Sam felt such a sense of loss and confusion. Why didn't 
Frodo want him anymore? What had he done to cause Frodo to stray? 
 
Sam did not miss the glances that Frodo cast at the Ranger or the ones the ranger cast 
back at his Master. It did not take great intelligence to see that they were both 
attracted to each other. Sam should have felt some form of jealousy over that but 
instead he felt...pensive and sort of left out. 
 
He just didn't understand what was going on around him and what was going on 
inside his head. He only knew that he loved Frodo. After this ring business, he was 
going to have it out with Frodo once and for all. Do you love me or don't you? It is 
that simple, right? Right. 
 
**** 
 
Aragorn couldn't believe it. How could he have been so stupid as to leave the Hobbits 
alone? How could he have known that the Nazgul would attack? Guilt hit him hard in 
his gut and Aragorn felt nothing but remorse and anger at his own mistake. 
 
Frodo now lay on the ground, stabbed by a Morgul blade and surrounded by three 
frightened Hobbits who wanted to know if their friend would die. Snatching up the 
Hobbit in his arms, he started the long run through the forest whispering hope and 
words of consolation to the being he had grown to love deeply these past few weeks. 
He could hear Frodo calling out feverishly for Gandalf while Sam lamented loudly 
that they'd never make it, given that Rivendell was six days away. 
 
"Hold on Frodo, Hold on!" 
 
How could he have been so stupid? Was it just last night, long after the other Hobbits 
had fallen asleep that Frodo had crept from his sleeping area and sat beside him by 
the fire? He had told the Hobbit to go back to sleep but Frodo stayed where he was, 
looking at him with such longing that Aragorn felt as if his heart would explode. 
 
He had then taken the Hobbit into his arms and Frodo had welcomed the embrace. 
There were no words spoken, only hands reaching out, touching, feeling, wanting. It 
had felt like a fever, a burning that needed to be extinguished. 
 
Moving a bit away from the fire and away from the others, Aragorn had removed his 
clothes, watching Frodo doing the same. For several moments they just stared at each 
other's bodies and then they were holding each other, touching and kissing. Licking. 
It had been too long for Aragorn and with just a few rubbing strokes, he came, with 
Frodo close on his heels. 
 
It had been rushed and Aragorn had sworn that the next time he would be slower. For 
now, he contended himself with holding Frodo in his arms and kissing him over and 
over again. Worshipping his body in every way while the Hobbit smiled up at him. 
Words still were not spoken when Frodo gathered up his clothing and returned to the 
fire. 
 
Aragorn had dressed and joined Frodo, and for a brief time, they just stayed by each 
other's side. Then yawning, Frodo smiled once more and returned to his bed and 
within minutes drifted off to sleep. 
 
Aragorn knew he needed to speak to Frodo, that they had much to discuss but for the 
time being, he allowed Frodo to dream in peace. As he gathered more wood, Aragorn 
paused at a movement behind him. Turning, he saw Samwise Gamgee sitting up from 
his place beside the fire, staring at him with eyes filled with tears. 
 
He didn't say a word, he just remained still, tears falling one by one down his cheeks. 
Then Sam laid down once again and turned to face away from Aragorn and the other 
Hobbits. Pulling the blankets around himself, he wept in silence. 
 
Aragorn felt a slash of pain hit him. It was then that he had realized what he had 
done. He had not only broken his vows to Arwen but he had unwittingly hurt Sam. 
Sam who was so in love with Frodo. What's more, it was worsened by the fact that 
Aragorn knew Sam was in love with Frodo, had known it back at the waterfalls 
weeks ago. The Ranger could almost feel the powers above stare down at him in 
disapproval. 
 
In the morning, he had risen and gotten breakfast ready for the Hobbits. Frodo had 
attempted to reach out to him to caress his hand or stroke his shoulder, a small 
inviting smile tugging at his lips. But spotting Sam a few feet away, Aragorn 
stiffened at the touch and found himself moving away. Ignoring the pained look on 
Frodo's face Aragorn once again set the walking pace, making sure to keep ahead of 
the Hobbits and away from Frodo's touch. 
 
Frodo attempted to seek solace with Sam by slowing his pace and walking at Sam's 
side, only to find the gardener quickening his pace and avoiding all of Frodo's efforts 
to start a conversation. It didn't take long for Frodo to realize that the two he loved 
most in the world were no longer speaking to him. 
 
Aragorn only once looked back, to see Frodo's eyes downcast. The Hobbit never 
looked so small, so helpless, so hurt or so alone. The rest of the day was spent in 
silence; only Merry's and Pippin's constant chatter broke the somber quiet of the 
group. But not even their light spirits could effect the dark cloud that had come over 
their friends and companions. 
 
When they arrived at Weathertop, Aragorn had decided a retreat away from the 
Hobbits was required. He could scout the area and hopefully when he returned, all 
would be well between Frodo and Sam. Instead, half way down the slope he heard 
the distinct cries of the Nazgul followed by the sound of Frodo screaming. 
 
‘If Frodo lived through this, if Frodo lived...he would...he would....’ 
 
4/5 
 
Darkness was taking him, he could feel himself drowning in it. Let it happen. Frodo 
wanted to drift away into that darkness and with it he hoped, find oblivion. He had 
never felt so much pain and anguish before and it wasn't entirely all from the blade 
imbedded in his chest. 
 
He tried to breathe and the pain increased. He was so cold and hot all at the same 
time. He could see flashes of faces in front of him, but they seemed so far away. 
 
One of the faces he knew but couldn't quite name. He was stroking Frodo and trying 
to tell him about Trolls. Who was he? He seemed to be kind and worried and yet 
something told Frodo he was not deserving of such attention. At least not from him. 
 
The other face had also peered down at him. A rugged, ranger who kept trying to call 
him back from the black dream he seemed to be floating within. 
 
He didn't want to come back. Their was no reason to come back. He was alone, 
completely and utterly alone. He was unloved and unwanted. Frodo only wanted to 
slip away into the shelter of oblivion and then the pain lanced inside his chest and he 
found himself gasping and crying out painfully. 
 
He could feel them, they were calling to him, wanting him to come to them. 
He wanted to go to them. Yes, they would take care of him. They would watch over 
him. He would never be alone again. 
 
Through the darkness, Frodo saw the burning red eye staring down at him and 
frightened, Frodo shook uncontrollably and started to scream. He was coming for 
him, he was coming! 
 
Another face appeared from him, a face he did not know. It was the face of a woman, 
no, not a woman...a she elf. She was speaking to him and calling to him. He didn't 
want to come back. Not to the pain. He wanted to beg the beautiful lady to let him 
go. He had no reason to come back. He was alone. 
 
But she continued to speak and Frodo felt himself doing as she bid, even though a 
part of him didn't want too. He felt himself being lifted once more and again 
everything began to swim around him. The face of the Ranger drifted in his vision 
and then the beautiful elf woman. They seemed to be talking. About him? Then the 
next thing Frodo felt was the wind in his hair and the loud sound of hooves as they 
galloped in haste away from the faces. 
 
Where was he being taken? What does it matter? He closed his eyes and allowed 
himself to drift away from the light. Darkness and oblivion were what he craved now. 
The red eye appeared and Frodo no longer felt fear, he no longer felt pain. He no 
longer felt anything. Fading, fading, fading. 
 
**** 
 
"By the Grace of the Valar, let him be spared. Save him!" 
 
The unfamiliar face appeared before him and Frodo heard the call. The words were in 
elvish and yet he could understand them. The man was beckoning him to return to the 
light. Calling him “Little One”. At first Frodo resisted, but the mysterious male elf 
was persistent and continued the call. 
 
It was a nice face, older than it appeared, and the voice was so alluring. Deep and 
strong. The most fascinating feature was his eyes. They were black as night with stars 
sparkling from within. They were beautiful eyes, kind eyes. 
 
He was so tired, so tired. Why won't they let me go? Please let me go. I have no 
reason left to live. 
 
**** 
 
Come back to us, Little One, he called again in Elvish. Ever since the halfling had 
been deposited in his arms, the Lord of Rivendell had felt nothing but pain pouring 
off the Hobbit’s body in waves. Elrond had to use all his reserves to prevent himself 
from becoming one with the other's pain. If Elrond didn't, he would not be able to 
save the Hobbit and in fact, would lose his own soul. 
 
Setting Frodo down upon the bed, Elrond finally got a good look at the small creature 
and saw at once a special and unique light emanating from within him. It was the 
purest light he had ever seen, an aura of brilliant colors. The elf had only encountered 
this form of light once before, and that was a long time ago, not since the first age. 
This creature was special. 
 
Glancing once more at the face of the Hobbit, Elrond thought he saw some sort of 
elvish lineage within him. No, not elvish, but he was not a pure breed. The Hobbit had 
some other form of blood heritage. What was it? It was unique and a breed that no 
longer existed in Middle-Earth. Where had he seen such light before? 
 
Forcing his questions aside, he concentrated on the present and undressed the Hobbit. 
Calling for his aides, he began to use all the knowledge and power at his command to 
save this creature. Something told him that Frodo's survival depended on more then 
just his own kin and friends’ love, and would impact the fate of all Middle-Earth. 
 
**** 
 
Later... 
He sighed in exhaustion, leaning heavily in his chair. Glancing at the bed, he allowed 
the feeling of relief to take over. He would live. It had been close. Too close. Frodo's 
passing into the shadow world had almost occurred. Elrond had to use everything he 
had to prevent the Hobbit from being lost to them. As it was, the Hobbit would never 
fully recover from this wound. It would haunt him for the rest of his life. 
 
That grieved Elrond's heart intensely. In delving deep into Frodo's core, and in the 
process of pulling him back from the darkness, Elrond had seen Frodo's very soul. It 
had one of the most beautiful auras he had ever seen. It had shocked him and 
delighted him in many ways. 
 
Since he and his kin were preparing to leave the shores of Middle-Earth, Elrond had 
spent the past several centuries avoiding getting too close to another being. Other then 
his children and a few friends and a sly, halfling burglar, he had done well, he 
thought, at protecting his heart. But now, seeing this being, this small and gentle 
creature, Elrond knew that leaving was going to be more difficult then he’d thought. 
 
The ancient elf had also experienced some of Frodo's inner feelings, memories and 
thoughts. He could see that the Halfling was quite intelligent, an eager mind ready to 
take in as much knowledge as he could get. He was also generous and an innocent. 
Pure of heart didn't even come close to describing Frodo, and with all this beauty, 
Elrond could see that the halfling was filled with turmoil and heartache. 
 
Frodo was a lonely soul ever searching for his place in life. He had suffered greatly in 
his childhood and it seems recent events had added to his pain. He was a creature 
calling out for love and receiving none in return. That was why it had been so difficult 
to pull Frodo back from the shadows. The young Hobbit had wanted and craved an 
ending to his loneliness. 
 
Elrond felt deep sorrow for this little one. Deep sadness and anger. For, Elrond could 
see who had recently harmed him and how. But these things would have to wait. For 
now, Frodo was sleeping peacefully, and the Elf Lord needed to find a place to 
meditate, to regain his own strength before dealing with the pressing matters at hand. 
 
Unfortunately, a broken hearted Hobbit was the least of this world’s troubles. Yet, 
Elrond would not push away this one's pain carelessly. He would do what he must 
but he would also do what he could for this star of light. 
 
Rising to his feet, Elrond moved to leave only to stop when he saw a tall, robed figure 
standing in the doorway. 
 
"How is he?" 
 
Elrond smiled and nodded. "He will live." 
 
Elrond walked out and left the Hobbit in the hands of the wizard. Of all the people 
Frodo had ever met, it was he, Gandalf the Grey, Elrond knew, that had never hurt 
him. 
Something told him that if anyone could help Frodo, it would be this Istari. 
 
Closing the door behind him, Elrond made his way to his room and along the way, he 
spotted Aragorn arriving in the courtyard with three other Hobbits. 
 
Elrond watched the Hobbits being ushered away by his people all the while asking 
after Frodo and his condition. The blond-haired one was shouting the loudest, 
demanding to be taken to his Master at once. His people remained solicitous and took 
the Hobbits to a place where they could rest. 
 
It took only a moment for Aragorn to realize he was being watched and he looked up 
to meet the ancient eyes. The Ranger's eyes held fear and worry and for a moment, 
Elrond was tempted to scold his foster son. He had much to reprimand him for. He 
even narrowed his eyes in anger. But on seeing those fearful eyes, Elrond relented. 
Whatever words he had for his foster son could also wait. Elrond nodded his head 
once and softening his eyes, turned and walked away. 
 
Alone in the courtyard, Aragorn sat down heavily on the bench. He knew. Elrond 
already knew. How long before Arwen would find out? How was he ever going to 
make up for all the hurt he had caused? Not just to Arwen, Elrond, and Sam...but to 
Frodo. Frodo most of all. Frodo who had been reaching out for someone to watch 
over him, someone to love him, and in return, Aragorn had given the Hobbit nothing 
but sorrow. 
 
'Oh Frodo, I'm sorry. So sorry!' 
 
**** 
 
Frodo awoke from his dreams to see that the world of sunlight embraced him and not 
only the sun, but also his wizard. For a time, Frodo had asked his questions. Where 
was he? Why hadn't his wizard met him in Bree as promised? 
 
But after most of his questions had been answered, Frodo still felt a heavy weight on 
his heart. Gandalf, who sat quietly in a chair puffing away on his pipe, seemed to see 
Frodo’s brow draw together in deep thought and Gandalf at once could feel the 
Hobbit’s pain. 
 
After an unbearably long silence, Gandalf leaned forward and reached for Frodo's 
hand. He peered deep into his blue eyes and knew not just the Ring lay heavy on this 
Hobbit’s mind. Something else, that threatened Frodo's very being. 
 
"Tell me." 
 
Frodo tried not to look into the wizard’s eyes but somehow, they found their way. 
Unable to help himself Frodo reached out with his arms and waited for the rejection 
he knew was to come. Instead, Frodo found himself wrapped in a loving embrace. 
 
"Tell me, my dear Hobbit. Tell me everything!" Gandalf held the Hobbit tightly in his 
arms, swearing he would not let him go. 
 
Burying his face into Gandalf's beard, Frodo began to pour out his story. Throughout 
the tale, Frodo's sobs and cries continued and when the story was over, Frodo waited 
for the wizard to shove him away in disgust. That did not happen. 
 
The wizard only gathered the Hobbit into his arms and held Frodo to his chest all the 
more tightly, rocking him ever so gently. 
 
When the tears finally stopped and Frodo had drifted off into a deep sleep, only then 
did Gandalf let Frodo go. He lovingly placed Frodo back under the covers, brushing 
back the wet curls and wiping several stray tears from the Hobbit’s cheeks. 
 
After a long moment, Gandalf sat back in his chair, and, taking out his pipe, he once 
again began to draw long deep puffs of smoke from it. If someone had chanced by, 
they would have thought the wizard was in quiet contemplation, but if they had taken 
a better look, they would have seen the anger flashing dangerously in his eyes. 
 
**** 
 
"What were you thinking?" Elrond stood in the middle of the garden looking at 
Aragorn, who couldn't seem to meet his foster father’s eyes. "Or should I ask, were 
you thinking?" 
 
"I know that I will have to speak to Arwen." 
 
"Indeed you will. I will not speak for her, for she is of age to make up her own mind 
on certain matters. But I must say I am deeply disappointed in you – and not only 
because you are betrothed or that this transgression was done to a Hobbit or that he 
was a male Hobbit, or should I say also the heir of Bilbo Baggins who is supposed to 
be a dear friend of yours!" 
 
"I am sorry, Ada," Aragorn had whispered. Still his eyes did not come to meet 
Elrond's. 
 
"Sorry? Sorry will not repair the damage you have caused this fragile heart and I am 
not speaking about Arwen. You know of whom I speak. He was almost lost in 
shadow and would have been if I had not revealed to him that he was indeed still 
loved. This Frodo Baggins has a beautiful and tender soul unlike any I have seen. 
How could you play with his heart so thoughtlessly?" 
 
"I didn't!" Aragorn finally met his father's eyes. Seeing the anger within them, 
Aragorn looked down at his feet once more. "I don't know what is wrong with me. 
Gandalf asked me to keep an eye on Frodo, to look out for him and the moment I saw 
him.…These feelings just came from nowhere. Feelings I still have. I realize that I 
made a mistake...." 
 
"A mistake? A mistake? You call it a mistake? You know very well that the Hobbit’s 
heart belonged to another, that you yourself belonged to another and yet still 
you...laid with him. That is not a mistake, that is abominable. He is inexperienced and 
innocent in the ways of love. He is still in the process of trying to find his way in this 
world and you came along and smashed him against the rocks and left him where he 
fell. Can you not imagine the suffering he has endured with your...false promises of 
love and then your rejection?" 
 
"I know, I just...I can fix this...I….” 
 
"No, No you cannot fix this, Aragorn, nor can it be undone. During Frodo's stay here 
in Rivendell, I have no choice but to prevent you from seeing him." 
 
Aragorn’s eyes shot up in alarm. 
 
"I need you to be at the council. It will take place within the week but in that time, I 
want you to go with Elrohir and Elladan and leave Rivendell." 
 
"You forbid me to see him?" the Ranger asked with a lump in his throat. 
 
"Yes, I forbid it. He needs time to heal. Before you leave, however, you will speak to 
Arwen and tell her of your...infidelity." 
 
"Ada?" Aragorn called out sadly. 
 
Elrond turned to his foster son and shook his head at him. "There is much I could 
forgive you for, even stealing my daughter from me -- as much as it grieves me, her 
love for you is apparent and I have to let what must be come to pass, but this...I am 
gravely disappointed in you, Aragorn." 
 
Without looking back, Elrond turned and walked away. 
 
*** 
 
Aragorn was steeling himself to find Arwen when a tall, angry, grey robed man 
stepped out into the garden and marched his way towards him. For the first time in 
his life, Aragorn wondered if being the heir to Isildur would be enough to stop an 
enraged wizard from killing him. 
 
**** 
 
Frodo sat quietly in bed, bored beyond belief. He had tried reading the books that 
Lord Elrond had sent him but he just couldn't get bring himself to concentrate. 
 
Lord Elrond? Frodo was still quite awed in the ancient elf's presence. 
 
Feeling a bit insignificant, Frodo had thought Elrond an overwhelming sight to 
behold. The Lord of Rivendell wasn't a strikingly handsome elf but he certainly had 
charisma and something else...a distinguished magnificence about him. Frodo 
remembered that face in his dreams. It had been so caring and kind, begging him to 
return to the light. Offering him love.  Meeting that face in reality had been a 
different experience all together. 
 
He had stood so proudly over him welcoming him to Rivendell and Frodo felt himself 
turn into mush. Those piercing eyes stared down at him, a genuine smile on the elf's 
lips. Frodo felt himself blush in spite of himself. 
 
All the while, Frodo felt Sam's warm hand in his own. Whatever anger Sam had had 
felt towards Frodo had vanished. He had even been surprised to see his gardener’s 
eyes stare at him with clear love radiating from them. Of course that had been hours 
ago and now Frodo was alone again, in bed. He was bored, bored...BORED! 
 
Sitting up, Frodo had hoped that among his many visitors, one in particular would 
show up. He wanted so much to figure out why the sudden change of heart. But after 
a few inquiries, Frodo discovered that Aragorn was nowhere to be found. Just as 
well. Frodo had finally realized why Aragorn had acted the way he did after 
that...night. Why Strider had been so repulsed by him. 
 
Frodo had never really been with someone. At least not with someone he had gone 
further with than a bit of kissing and cuddling. That had to be it. Frodo's inexperience 
had upset the Ranger. Making love to him must have felt like making love to a duck. 
 
Then there was Sam. Somehow Sam must have woken that night and had seen him 
with Aragorn. That explained his anger the following day. But why? Sam had Rosie 
waiting for him back in the Shire. Why would he care if he openly sought out 
Aragorn? 
 
Confused and feeling more lost, Frodo tried to think of other things. Instead all he 
could think about was just how pathetic he really was. 
 
The door opened suddenly and Frodo looked up to see a small figure edge its way 
towards him. 
 
"Mr. Frodo! How are you feeling this morning? I spoke to Gandalf and to Lord 
Elrond and they said that you could take a little walk in the garden if you felt up to 
it." 
 
Frodo smiled gently at his friend, and then patted the bed. "Sam...come sit with me 
for a minute. I think we need to talk." 
 
Sam smiled softly and nodded, making his way towards the bed. "Yeah, I think we 
are overdue for one. As my Gaffer would say...nothing like a little bit of talking to 
clear up some misunderstandings, and I think we got a lot of those, sir." 
 
Joining Frodo on the bed, Sam reached out his hand. Frodo smiled softly and took it. 
**** 
 
"I was not kissing her. She was kissing me, and if you had stuck around long enough, 
you would have seen me telling her that I was spoken for." 
 
Frodo blushed at Sam's words and lowered his eyes. "Oh Sam, I’m sorry. I am an 
idiot." 
 
"No you are not. You weren't thinking properly and maybe you should have spoken 
about it sooner but...you, my dear, are not an idiot. I knew something was wrong and 
I knew I should have gone in that room and talked to you but no, I am just as much to 
blame. I love you, Mr. Frodo. Don't you doubt about that. I love you." 
 
"I don't know what came over me, Sam. Especially with Strider. I am attracted to 
him, I can't help it and I don't even know why." 
 
"I do. He is mysterious and scruffy and very fascinating. He's also a pretty good 
fighter. You should have seen how he dealt with those black riders!" 
 
Frodo smiled at Sam who returned the smile. 
 
"And before you go thinking again, I was not upset just because you were with him...I 
was upset and I don't know why either, except that I was...well...left out." 
 
Frodo looked at him in awe and surprise, and Sam, seeing that look, started to blush 
all over again. "Crazy the things we have gotten ourselves into, Mr. Frodo. From now 
on...we talk. Yes?" 
 
"Deal," replied Frodo, who then shook his head at his gardener. "But don't worry -- 
whatever was between Aragorn and I is well, over, I think." 
 
"Ah now, don't be so sure about such things. When you get your strength back...we’ll 
go see that Strider and have ourselves a little talk." 
 
Laughing, Frodo reached for Sam and before his Gardener knew what was 
happening, he got a deep kiss from his beloved. A smile came to Sam's face and it 
remained there for a long time. 
*** 
A little while later, Frodo rose from his bed and holding tightly onto Sam's hand, he 
began his first walk around Rivendell. As they walked together in the various 
gardens, giving each other loving glances, they were unaware of two eyes that peered 
down at them from an open window. 
 
"His strength returns." 
 
"That wound will never fully heal. He will carry it with him for the rest of his life." 
 
"And yet, to have come this far still bearing the Ring, the Hobbit has shown 
extraordinary resilience to it's evil." 
 
"We can ask no more of Frodo..." 
 
Elrond wished he could agree with Gandalf, but something inside told him that Frodo 
Baggins’ tale was not going to end here. That Frodo's fate had already been set and 
there was nothing anyone could do to stop it. 
 
Glancing once more out the window, he was glad that Frodo had someone who 
would watch over him. That pudgy blond Hobbit also gave him the impression that he 
had a role to fullfill as well, and it was by his Master's side. 
 
Sadly, Elrond wished he could be a part of that protection. Even in such a short 
period of time, he had grown fond of this particular little Hobbit. He could now 
understand Aragorn's obsession. Frodo Baggins was one out of a billion. A jewel 
worthy of being well kept. Frodo was a treasure that cried out for love. 
 
It was only early this morning that Elrond recognized Frodo's aura and his blood 
heritage. He consulted a few of his books and a brief discussion with Master Bilbo 
was all it took for Elrond to fit it all together. He wondered if he should share this 
knowledge with Gandalf but seeing how protective the wizard was of the Hobbit, he 
decided not to. 
 
This was a discussion that could be dealt with at a later time. When danger of Sauron 
was not so dire. 
 
Yes, if they could survive this coming War, he would most certainly wish to sit down 
and talk to Gandalf and have a long conversation with Frodo. Now however, it was 
time to discuss the fate of the One Ring. 
 
**** 
 
Frodo felt happy and carefree once more. Sam was still in love with him and reuniting 
with his cousins and Bilbo made him feel as if he could fly. Rivendell was so 
beautiful and Frodo wasn't sure if he would ever tire of looking at its gardens or at 
the beautiful elves. 
 
Wishing to find some quiet time to contemplate things, Frodo left Sam with his 
cousins and headed towards a nearby waterfall. He had seen it from his balcony and 
wanted very much to have a swim in its waters. His shoulder still felt a bit cold and 
achy but he just couldn't pass up a swim under a waterfall. 
 
Reaching his destination, Frodo was once again overwhelmed by beauty. A clear 
crystal falls was before him, emptying into a small pond that continued its flow over 
rocks and disappearing down a stream. The grass was of the darkest green he had ever 
seen and the leaves were full of colors. The air smelled like lilacs and roses and all of 
it seemed like a dream. 
 
Excited and unable to wait, Frodo undressed and slipped one of his feet into the cool 
water. It was wonderful! Frodo was thrilled and put in his other leg. He sat there for a 
time, listening to the various sounds of nature around him and breathing in the fresh 
air. He felt at peace. He wondered if Elrond would mind him staying here for a while 
-- after the Council meeting and the Ring was dealt with, of course. 
 
He still had a lot of things to sort out. One of those things was Aragorn. Frodo still 
felt a deep sense of love for the Ranger and Frodo wanted so desperately to find out 
what he had done to make the human turn from him. 
 
Closing his eyes, Frodo was just about to drift off into a lovely dream when soft 
voices pulled him back to the present. Looking up, Frodo tried to locate the sounds 
and finally saw two figures standing on a bridge just above him. They had not seen 
him and were oblivious to his whereabouts. Frodo grinned when he recognized the 
figures. 
 
One was of the Elf woman he had seen when he was ill. He had learned from Elrond 
that his daughter, Arwen, had found him and brought him to Rivendell. She was 
lovely -- even more so then when he first saw her. 
 
The other – well, it took Frodo a moment to realize that the second figure was Strider. 
He was all cleaned up and dressed like an elf. 
 
He looked absolutely gorgeous. Frodo choked, realizing he had forgotten to breathe 
again. Getting to his feet, Frodo was just about to call to them when he saw the two 
embrace and kiss. 
 
He suddenly felt cold, and gathering his clothes, Frodo turned from the sight and 
hurried back to the Last Homely House as fast as his feet would carry him. Frodo 
didn't even bother to say hello or bow to Elrond as he by passed him in the courtyard. 
 
**** 
 
The Elf watched the young one's departure with concerned eyes. 
 
5/10 
 
Two days had passed and Frodo had sunk into a deeper depression then ever before. 
Elrond and Gandalf could only watch as Frodo’s aura seemed to be slipping away 
from them. 
 
The Hobbit sought solitude and escape from his fellow kin. Even his beloved Bilbo 
could not disperse the sadness that seemed to be taking hold over Frodo Baggins. 
 
Sam tried everything, even a failed attempt at love making. But Frodo would only roll 
away pretending that he was too tired or that his wound was bothering him. Baffled, 
all those that loved him watched helplessly as he succumbed to this melancholy. 
 
It was days later, during one star-filled night, that Frodo awoke to find his beloved 
Samwise sound asleep next to him. Getting up, and without finding something warm 
to dress in, Frodo left his room in all but his night shirt and began to wander the great 
halls of Elrond’s home. 
 
He didn’t have a destination. All Frodo knew was that he had to take a walk. Escape. 
To go somewhere. Just as he was turning a corner, a tall shadow walked passed him. 
Surprised, Frodo hesitated when he recognized the form of Arwen Evenstar. She was 
dressed all in white and seemed to be deep in her own thoughts. She never looked so 
lovely. 
 
She paused for a moment and turned to stare at the Hobbit. She smiled at him and 
then continued to make her way out into the garden. 
 
Frodo felt compelled to follow her. 
 
**** 
 
He found her sitting under a large, evergreen tree. She was gazing up at the stars and 
seemed to be content in her little world. 
 
Swallowing down a lump in his throat, Frodo moved slowly towards her. Just as he 
reached her, he saw her eyes meet his, and she offered him a seat beside her. 
 
Frodo remained standing and lowering his eyes to the ground, he shook his head in 
sorrow. 
 
“I did not know he was betrothed to you, my Lady. I beg for your forgiveness.” 
 
The Lady did not speak. Instead, she waved once more to the ground for Frodo to sit. 
Frodo sadly obeyed, waiting for the angry words of betrayal to come from her lips. 
Instead, Frodo felt a gentle hand stroke his cheek. Shocked, he looked up and saw 
her staring at him, not in anger, but in sadness. 
 
“Tell me Master Frodo, do you love my Father’s garden?” 
 
Frodo glanced around him and nodded. “Yes, it is beautiful. If I lived here, I do not 
think I would ever tire of it.” 
 
“Do you love your Shire?” 
 
Frodo felt tears fill his eyes. “More than ever. I don’t think I ever appreciated it as I 
should have. I was too busy dreaming of other places. But yes, I love the Shire.” 
 
“Do you love your Uncle Bilbo?” 
 
“Of course,” replied Frodo. He looked back at her in confusion not understanding 
where this was all leading. 
 
“Do you love mushrooms?” 
 
“What Hobbit wouldn’t?” 
 
“Do you love Samwise? Your cousins? Do you still love your parents even though 
they have passed into another life?” 
 
“Why do you ask me these things? Yes, I love them! All of them!” 
 
“Then do you not think I love too. That I love my Father, that I love my brothers, and 
my home?” 
 
“I don’t understand.” Frodo felt completely miserable. He only knew that he liked the 
Lady Arwen and had never meant to cause so much pain...or her anger. 
 
“Frodo....” She reached out her hand and laid it gently on Frodo’s lap. 
 
Frodo stared at the beauty of Arwen Evenstar and sighed wretchedly. How could be 
possibly compete with her over Aragorn? 
 
“Love has no price nor is it bound to only one creature. Love is limitless. As one loves 
the trees and stars, can not they also love the moon and the earth?” 
 
Frodo still looked at her in confusion, wondering what she was getting at. 
 
She smiled and tried to simplify what she was saying. “Although there are different 
forms of love, they still own a part of your heart. Just because you love, say, your 
cousin Merry, does not mean that you do not have room to love your cousin Pippin?” 
 
“Yes....” It was then Frodo began to understand what the Lady was truly saying. 
“Oh.” 
 
Seeing the understanding on his face, Arwen smiled warmly at the Hobbit. “I love 
Aragorn, I have loved him for many long years, but I too have loved others. Just as he 
has. I do not wrong him for seeking warmth wherever he can find it. Love is so rare to 
find in these troubled times. Would you stop loving Samwise if Aragorn commanded 
you to give him up?” 
 
Frodo didn’t even hesitate. “No. I love Sam. I have always loved him.” 
 
“So you will not ask Aragorn to stop loving me?” 
 
Frodo shook his head. “I would not!” Frodo then added softly. “You are worthy of 
his love. I saw.” He swallowed and shrugged. “I saw, how he looked at you on the 
bridge. He truly loves you. I could see it in his eyes. You are so...so beautiful. How 
could anyone not fall in love with you?” 
 
Smiling, Arwen bowed her head at his kind words. “Thank you," she replied. “But 
Frodo, even now I see his heart has deepened. He loves me, as I love him, but he has 
also grown to love you as well and of your fellow travelers. I do not resent such a 
thing. Nor do I resent you. I believe love is like a tree. All its branches are as 
important as the other branches, each connected to one another. . . as one. I can see 
why his eyes linger upon you. You do not realize just how beautiful you are.” 
 
Frodo shook his head. “No, oh no, my Lady, I....” 
 
She gently touched his lips with the tip of her finger and nodded. “Yes, you are 
beautiful. As one loves the moon, one must also love the sun. Whatever lies ahead, 
know always that my heart hopes that you will find all that you seek. I wish you 
happiness, Frodo, and truly, with all my heart, I wish you love.” 
 
Rising to her feet, she bent down and gave Frodo a soft kiss on his forehead. She 
stood once more, and turning, she headed back into the house. 
 
Frodo remained where he was for a brief time, thinking over all that the lovely 
Princess had said to him. A slow smile came to his lips, and a weight faded into the 
darkness. 
**** 
 
He watched from his window and had listened closely to the conversation between 
the Hobbit and his daughter. Sighing, Elrond gazed at the Hobbit and felt sadness 
overcome him. His daughter was still set in her path to give up her immortality, and 
once more, he saw that the future of Middle-Earth would soon lay upon the shoulders 
of Frodo Baggins, and there was nothing he or anyone could do to stop it. 
 
He could see great pain, sadness and death to come to many, and Lord Elrond 
wondered who would survive this war and who would not. 
 
The Lord of Rivendell looked away, and sitting down in one of his empty chairs, he 
allowed himself, for the first time in many long centuries, to grieve. 
 
**** 
 
‘What have I done?!’ 
 
Frodo ran into his room and swiftly closed the door behind him. Leaning against the 
door, Frodo covered his face with his hands, groaning half in fear and half in dread. 
Yes, that’s right, what did you say? 
 
‘...I will take the ring to Mordor....’ 
 
You are an idiot, Frodo Baggins. Here you were almost out of this mess and could be 
half -way home right now and instead, you have volunteered on a suicide mission. A 
quest that will most likely get you killed. Why? Why did you do it? 
 
Inside a small voice seemed to echo back. ‘Because no one else can.’ 
 
If no one else can carry the Ring, what makes me so sure I can? 
 
Frodo slid slowly to the ground, feeling the weight of the world on his shoulders. If 
he failed, all of Middle-Earth would wind up in the hands of Sauron. 
 
It had all seemed like the right thing to do at the time. He had been allowed to sit 
with Gandalf as the Council was summoned and the wisest people of Middle-Earth 
tried to decipher the fate of the One Ring. Aragorn had been present and he had done 
everything in his power to avoid looking at the human ranger. But as soon as it was 
revealed that Aragorn was the last surviving relation to Isildur and was, in fact, heir to 
the Kingdom of Gondor, Frodo hadn’t been able to take his eyes off the Ranger. 
 
Then things started to go down hill. Thanks to the human, Boromir, things escalated 
out of hand and soon the whole council was arguing amongst itself. 
 
Looking into the Ring, Frodo could hear the sinister laughter coming from it. It was 
delighted to be causing chaos and disruption to all around it. 
 
Unable to stop himself, Frodo had stood and shouted that he would be the one, that 
he would take the ring to Mordor and cast it back into Mt Doom where it had been 
forged. 
 
Easier said then done. 
 
Still, his gesture had stopped the arguing. Frodo did not miss the pride and sadness 
coming from Gandalf and from Elrond at his proclamation. He had a feeling this was 
something they dreaded all along would happen. 
 
Well, he couldn’t back out now, even if he wanted to. Before he could say anything 
more, Gandalf had promised to come with him. Followed by Aragorn, an elf prince 
from Mirkwood forest, Legolas, a grumpy dwarf, named Gimli, and Boromir who 
had started the arguing in the first place. 
 
But there were three Frodo had not wanted to accompany him. Sam, who had been 
listening in some nearby bushes, had rushed in, announcing to everyone that he was 
going with his Master, followed by his two cousins who had been hiding behind some 
white marble columns. Frodo had wanted to ask Elrond to forbid it; the last thing he 
wanted was to see the ones he loved most in this world wind up in more danger. 
 
Merry and Pippin had been through enough and should be sent home, back to the 
Shire. Instead, Elrond looked slightly amused and seemed to silently contemplate his 
cousins' proposal. 
 
Once the Council had convened Frodo had sought Elrond to plead with him to keep 
his cousins and Sam from going. Instead, Elrond had simply pointed to the skies and 
asked Frodo if he would command the sun never to rise again. Frodo understood 
exactly what the Lord of Rivendell was saying. No force or power would stop his kin 
from coming along. It was not something he wanted to hear. But then, when Frodo 
had seen Elrond depart, he had to face his Sam. 
 
Sam. His dearest Sam. Who vehemently refused to listen to reason. He would not be 
parted from his Master. 
 
“You need someone to look after you. Who's going to make sure you're eating right? 
Who's going to make sure you stay warm? Who's going to watch your back? Don't 
say anymore, Mr. Frodo. Your Sam is coming with you and that's that!” 
 
Frightened and not knowing what else to do, Frodo had run all the way back to his 
room and now, here he was sitting on the floor, feeling more helpless and alone then 
ever before. 
 
What was he to do? 
 
A soft knock on the door had Frodo become still as stone. 
 
The knock came again more urgently. 
 
“Frodo? Frodo are you all right? Can we come in?” 
 
Frodo recognized the voice of Aragorn, and for a moment, Frodo contemplated 
telling Aragorn to go jump off a cliff. He was still angry at the Ranger for informing 
him after the fact of his relationship with the Lady Arwen. If he had known about the 
betrothal, he would have told Aragorn to keep his hands off. Then, Frodo thought 
better of telling Aragorn to jump off a cliff. He might just do it. 
 
Getting to his feet, Frodo sighed heavily, and then opened the doors, wishing instead 
that he could lock them. Outside, looking quite concerned, was Aragorn and behind 
him was Sam, looking equally worried. Moving back to the bed, Frodo sat down and 
waited for what was to come. 
 
“Sam and I have been talking....” 
 
Frodo looked at Aragorn and Sam, puzzled by Aragorn’s words. He wasn’t sure he 
could deal with another rejection right now. Frodo glanced down his neck and felt a 
slight burning sensation where the One Ring nestled against his skin. Already he 
could feel it calling to him, offering him false promises. Closing his mind to the dark 
voice, he returned his attention to Aragorn, who was once again speaking to him. 
 
“First, I want to say, I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to hurt you, Frodo.” 
 
Frodo was about to deny the statement, but Aragorn continued. 
 
“I should have told you that I was betrothed to another. Please accept my apology.” 
 
Frodo looked at the floor and shrugged. “I forgive you.” 
 
It didn’t sound very convincing and Aragorn knew it. Bending to his knees, he took 
Frodo’s hands into his own and waited. 
 
A few moments passed before Frodo’s head came up and met his silver blue eyes. 
 
“I’m sorry,” he whispered in true penance. 
 
Frodo swallowed and nodded, not knowing what else to say. 
 
“I do not understand this attraction we have for one another. I do not even begin to 
try to reason with it. Please know that I am very fond of you. I care for you deeply.” 
Aragorn paused and faced Sam, who was looking at the two of them silently with an 
unreadable -expression. “Both of you. You have become very dear to me.” 
 
Sam firmly nodded his head. Aragorn turned back to face Frodo, who again 
swallowed, not knowing what to say to all this. 
 
“In time, I hope, I can make it up to you both for the pain I caused you. Will you give 
me another chance?” 
 
Frodo now turned his gaze to Sam, waiting for him to speak first. 
 
Sam smiled and nodded. 
 
Frodo, sighing in relief, met Aragorn’s eyes. “Yes. We will.” He made sure to make 
the WE stand out. It was important to Frodo not to exclude Sam. Never again would 
he knowingly cause Sam pain. 
 
Now feeling a weight off his own shoulders, Aragorn rose and joined Frodo sitting on 
the edge of the bed. Holding out his hand, Aragorn waited for Sam to join them. 
Once they were all sitting on the bed, they looked on at each other in silence. 
 
After what seemed like a long time, Aragorn spoke. “I will do everything in my 
power to protect you. Both of you. No matter what happens.” 
 
“We may not survive,” replied Frodo. “We may all die.” 
 
“Mr. Frodo!” Sam cried in horror. Already his master was ready to give up. That was 
so unlike him. 
 
Aragorn reached for Frodo, pulling him into his arms, and then reached and pulled 
Sam into the embrace as well. Sam blushed but did not fight the threesome hug. 
Instead, he enjoyed the feel of the warm heat coming from the bodies close against 
his own. He suddenly felt like he was up close to a nice cozy fire. Toasty warm. 
 
“We must have hope, for without it, all will be lost. Trust me, my little loves. We will 
overcome this evil. We will. Together.” 
 
Frodo looked up meeting Aragorn's and Sam’s eyes. He was still frightened, but he 
knew he would endure -- after all, he had his servant, a king, and a wizard at his beck 
and call. What more could a Hobbit ask for? Even as Frodo felt Aragorn’s lips upon 
his own, he couldn’t help but wonder if it would be enough. 
 
Making sure Sam wasn’t left out, Aragorn pressed a soft kiss to the gardener’s lips. 
Sam’s eyes widened in delight, blushing and then  smiling, and then he reached in 
and gave Frodo a kiss too. 

For a time, the three remained in each other’s embrace, holding and 
kissing and providing what comfort they could for the dark and long 
journey that stood before them. No one knew what the future would 
bring, but whatever it did, they would no longer sit idly by and 
allow all the what ifs to control their destiny. 

Tomorrow would come soon enough and right now they planned to enjoy 
the here and now with each other.
 
**** 

“So you forgave him?” 

Elrond turned from his window and gazed at his daughter who stood 
proudly in the open doorway that lead into the garden. She was 
dressed all in white and gold. It seemed to Elrond that every day, 
her beauty seemed to grow. 

“There was nothing to forgive, Ada.” 

“You gladly accept taking second place in Aragorn’s heart?” 

“There is no second place, Ada. Those that he loves will always come 
first in his life. I am glad to know such a man that fears not love.” 

“I forbid this!” 

“And what exactly do you forbid? My loving Aragorn and he in return 
loving me, or that he loves Frodo and Frodo loves him?” 

“I will not argue with you. I will not lose you to this mortal!” 

“Is he not your son?” Arwen opened her arms to her father, her face 
soft and yet firm all at the same time. “Have you stopped loving him 
just because he dared to love me?” 

“I will always care deeply for Aragorn. He will always be a son to 
me. It is not a matter of love. He may love anyone he wishes -- all 
the elves in Middle-Earth, even this beautiful Hobbit. It is only you 
that I do not wish him to love. I shall soon be sailing into the West 
and I want you at my side. Is that so hard for you to understand? I 
love you, Arwen. You are my daughter. I cannot bare to lose you as I 
have already lost so many loved ones. My heart is burdened with 
grief, I tell you now, I cannot let you go. I-Will-NOT.” 

Arwen sighed, and lowered her head as her eyes filled with tears. “I 
have made my choice.” 

“You will lose your immortality. You will fade, if you follow this 
path.” 

“It is not so much of a loss, Ada when one has love.” 

“Is there nothing I can say?” 

“No,” she replied sadly and slowly she turned and headed into the 
garden. 

Alone, Elrond remained standing by the window engulfed in his own 
pain. 

Was it then that a part of Elrond broke? Was it then that Elrond lost 
some of his own wisdom and sanity? Dark thoughts dwelled in his mind 
and Elrond made plans for retribution of his loss. ‘Ah, Elbereth if 
you allow this to come to pass, if Aragorn takes my daughter, then in 
the end, I swear I will take something that he so dearly loves. Eye 
for an eye. One, small Hobbit. It will not equal the taking of my 
daughter, but it will be enough. Frodo Baggins will be mine.’ 

Clenching his teeth, Elrond turned from the window and headed for his 
study. He had plans to make, many plans. 

Part 6/10 

Lothlorien 

Frodo left Sam sleeping under the tree for the second time tonight. 
The first time, he had gone to see the Lady Galadriel and to look 
into the mirror where he had seen all hope lost and no future for 
Middle-Earth should he fail in his quest. 

The loss of Gandalf still haunted him. Frodo sighed and realized that 
it would haunt him for the rest of his life. He had chosen the path 
through Moria and it had led to Gandalf’s doom. Frodo would never see 
his wizard again. 

Gandalf had meant so much to him. He had been a missing parent in his 
life, almost like a grandfather, and Frodo could not remember a time 
he did not look up to the grey robed Istari who seemed to be able to 
solve any problem and had always every solution. With him, Frodo had 
no fear. He was safe, so long as the Wizard was at his side. 

Frodo could still remember how he would be the boldest of the Hobbit 
children and climb on Gandalf’s lap. No one had ever dared such a 
thing, but he dared. The wizard would eye him with suspicion, but 
Frodo would only smile and curl his fingers through the tangled 
beard, all in the hopes of tugging a smile from the old man. The 
smile always came. 

Now, he would never see that smile again. Never hear that booming 
laughter or hear lovely stories of Elves and men. Nor would he ever 
be safe again. It was gone now, fading into the darkness, just like 
the rest of him. 

Frodo arrived at his destination and looking about and seeing that 
the Lady had gone, he gazed once more into the mirror. He had to 
know, he had to try to see the future. He had only seen the Shire in 
flames and his people enslaved before the Eye had appeared and 
tormented him with death and destruction. Frodo had to try it once 
more. He had to know what was in his own future. 

The Ring was taking him. He could feel it now and its power was 
weighing heavily on his mind and soul. He felt as if someone was 
stabbing him in the chest, and just as he was about to catch his 
breath, the stab of pain would hit him all over again. 

He was losing himself and Frodo could feel it. Day by day, bit by 
bit. The fire was all-consuming and Frodo needed to believe that 
there would be a tomorrow. 

So once more he dared to look deep into the dark waters -- and then 
he waited. The images came, slowly at first, almost like a curtain 
being drawn aside and Frodo felt his heart torn in two. 

He could see Aragorn, laughing and holding a small human child in his 
arms. He was older, with silver entwined in his dark brown hair and 
beard. Beside him stood the Lady Arwen, beautiful and proud. A true 
Queen of the people of men. She never looked more beautiful. 

But Frodo did not see himself there. 

Sam appeared and he was surrounded by children, and sitting beside 
him, smiling and mending what looked to be a shirt, was Rosie. 
Thirteen children. Frodo counted each and every one of them. They 
were all beautiful and a treasure to the happy couple. They looked 
very much in love. Happy, whole, complete. Alive. 

But Frodo did not see himself there. 

So, it was true. He would perish. There was no hope. The world will 
go on, but he would not. His legacy would die. Tomorrow would come 
but he would not be there. Tears filled Frodo’s eyes, and he turned 
from the mirror and walked quietly out into the forest, disappearing 
into the darkness of night. No hope. 

*** 

Frodo sat quietly by the brook. He had found it only by chance. 
Morning had come to Lothlorien but the trees granted little sunlight 
in its vast forest. Only small specks of sunlight managed to get 
through to reveal that tomorrow had indeed come. 

Frodo had wandered deep into the woods and finally, after a time, he 
came to a babbling brook that seemed to go on for miles. Beside a 
large rock stood two tall trees that were entwined with each other. 
They almost looked like lovers, forever embracing. 

Sitting down on the boulder, Frodo stared deep into the water and 
tried to find some acceptance and peace about what was to come. He 
knew he could not turn back. Too many lives hung in the balance. The 
Shire would fall as he had foreseen and not just his fellow Hobbits 
would perish. Humans, Dwarves, Elves. There was no one that could 
stop Sauron. He was far too powerful and if he got his Ring, the 
ending of the world would come. 

Endings, so many endings and so tragically unhappy. Is it selfish, he 
wondered, to want to live? Was it so selfish for him, one little 
Hobbit, to seek love for himself? 

Ever since they had left Rivendell, Frodo had felt the coming of 
doom. Aragorn of course had held true to his promise, watching over 
him and the others with a hawk-like eye. Frodo had never felt so 
protected and yet, even on those cold nights with Sam snuggled close 
to him on one side and Aragorn nestled on the other, Frodo could 
still feel the cold around him. These were dark times, but surely 
there was a time of happiness somewhere in his past? 

Yes, Bilbo in the kitchen baking bread and singing a dwarf song. Sam, 
working in the garden and muttering about planting lilacs in the 
spring, not knowing that evil was creeping in around the next corner. 
He and his cousins playing in the Brandywine river. Stealing apples 
from Farmer Hillypilly, and climbing the highest of trees so he could 
try to see what lay beyond the valley of the Shire. Those were indeed 
moments of happiness. 

He had, in his youth, dreamed of what lay beyond. Wanting to see what 
the world was all about. 

Frodo remembered a time when he was found in that tree by Gandalf. He 
was coming to visit Bilbo on one of his short visits. Frodo had 
laughed, when he saw the concern in the wizard’s eyes at seeing how 
high Frodo was in the branches. He had begged Frodo to come down. But 
Frodo wouldn’t. Not until the wizard promised to tell him about the 
outside world. 

“Tell me about the elves, tell me about the humans? Do they sing like 
we do? Do they dance? Do they talk like us hobbits? Where do they 
live? Do they eat six meals a day? Are they kind? Do they play games 
like us? Would they play with me….Would they like me?”

*Would they like me?* 

Now Frodo wished he had never ventured outside the Shire. He wished 
he had never met Aragorn. He wished he had never allowed himself to 
hope for love. He wished. . .he had never been born. 

“Frodo?” 

Frodo turned then and stared up in surprise to see Aragorn. He stood 
over him, looking concerned and worried. He also appeared out of 
breath, as if he had been running. 

“Are you all right? I have been searching for you all morning. The 
others were worried when you did not return. Sam was worried.” 

Frodo swallowed and suddenly felt remorse for causing so much fear. 
“I’m sorry, I guess, I lost all track of time.” 

Sighing, Aragorn sat down beside the Hobbit and looked at the brook. 
“I can see why. This is a lovely spot. Full of wonderful memories. 
This is where I first saw Arwen.” 

Frodo winced and closed his eyes. “Oh,” 

He had hoped this was a spot no one had ever been. A place that he 
could call his own. No such luck. Frodo saw the images once more. 
Arwen and Aragorn, Sam and Rosie. Together. Frodo did not feel angry 
at the images or bitter over them. He just wished to know where he 
fit in that puzzle. Where did he belong? Or did he belong at all? 

Tears filled Frodo’s eyes once more, and he dared not look at 
Aragorn. 

“What did the Lady Galadriel show you, Frodo?” 

Frodo took a breath before answering. “The Shire was in flames. The 
Fellowship Broken. The Eye.” 

He reached out and tried to touch Frodo’s shoulder and Frodo flinched 
from it. “What else happened?” 

“I offered the Lady the Ring.” 

“And?” 

“She refused it. I shall have to carry it.” 

“I’m sorry, Frodo.” 

He reached once more for the Hobbit, But Frodo pulled away as the 
tears fell from his eyes. “I made a promise. I will not let Gandalf 
down. I will take the Ring to Mordor.” 

He would not allow Gandalf’s death to be in vain. And then, I shall 
die. Frodo knew that the end was near and that he would savor what 
time he had left. Here and now. Frodo got slowly to his feet and 
began to unbutton his shirt. Aragorn watched in surprise as Frodo 
soon stood naked before him. 

“Aragorn, make love to me. Now.” 

Frodo looked deep into his eyes and added softly, “Please.” 

Time seemed to stop, and the sounds of a babbling brook was the only 
noise in the forest. They laid down under the trees and Aragorn 
removed all his clothing. He took the Hobbit into his arms, cradling 
him gently against his chest. 

But Frodo did not want to be cradled or comforted. His time was 
drawing to an end and he needed, wanted more to hold to his breast 
and keep him warm in the darkest of places.

Frodo grasped Aragorn’s cheek and pulled his lips down crushingly 
onto his own. He opened his mouth and allowed the seeking tongue in 
to stake a claim of what was already so freely given. 

Frodo could feel Aragorn’s arousal against his knee and in return, 
Frodo pushed his own arousal against the human’s skin. Gasping in 
surprise, Aragorn folded his arms around Frodo, touching his skin and 
sliding his hands down slowly over the Hobbit’s shoulders and chest. 
The human’s mouth kissed and nuzzled Frodo’s collarbone and nipped at 
his chest. 

Frodo delighted in the touch, feeling his body respond and tingle at 
the sensations. Crying out eagerly, Frodo forgot about the darkness 
but the burning against his chest remained as the One Ring stayed in 
place as if defiant of this union and symbolizing all that stood in 
the way of Frodo’s happiness and future. 

Frodo allowed his hands to roam freely over the large back and 
buttocks of the human’s limber form. He was beautiful. Frodo did not 
deny that. The human reeked of masculine scent and it was like a 
perfume that had become like an addiction. Frodo needed more, even 
more then these loving touches. 

Frodo pulled away, gazing lustily at Aragorn, and the Ranger, who 
would one day be King, lost himself in the Hobbits’ blue eyes. 

Turning on to his stomach, Frodo pulled Aragorn’s arms around him and 
bracing himself, he pushed back with determination against the hard 
member. Aragorn stopped and tried to hold Frodo away from him. He 
finally realized that Frodo desired more then just kissing and 
touching and he wasn’t altogether sure that Frodo was ready for this. 

He tried to speak, but Frodo only turned his head and stared into his 
eyes and whispered, “Please!” 

Even in his own need, Aragorn was no fool, and knew that if he did 
what Frodo wanted, he would tear the Hobbit to pieces. He needed 
something to keep that from happening. Smiling, Aragorn released the 
Hobbit, and moved back to his clothing. 

Frodo lay where he was, breathing hard as if he had been running, as 
he had away from Moria, away from the Orcs, away from Gandalf’s 
death. The darkness returned and Frodo could see only death before 
him. Before Frodo could reach for Aragorn, the Ranger returned 
holding something in his hands. He pulled Frodo once more into his 
arms, all the while, using his free hand to slicken his member. 

“Frodo, we must be careful. I know this is your first time,” Aragorn 
said while nuzzling the pointed ear. “This is a special lubricant 
that I use sometimes for….” 

He paused unable to make another coherent sound. He burned now, and 
his desires was slowly corrupting his thoughts. He pushed Frodo back 
onto the ground and Frodo went happily, turning once more onto his 
stomach. He felt something cold and slick against his opening, and 
Frodo felt a gentle probing. Frodo shook his head, feeling some of 
his own erection fade, but not the need. 

The first finger caused him to murmur unintelligently. The second 
finger caused Frodo to whimper, the third….Frodo cried out achingly 
for completion. 

“Easy Frodo, easy, slowly,” Aragorn pleaded, but he had already 
removed his fingers.

Bending Frodo onto his knees, he placed the tip of his member against 
the puckered entrance. The sphincter did not move and Frodo felt pain 
as the opening refused to allow Aragorn passage. Frodo would not be 
thwarted, though -- he had to have this. No matter the pain. 

Before Aragorn could stop him, the Hobbit thrust back and the member 
slid slowly into the tight, virginal hole. Aragorn and Frodo both 
cried out. The pain for Frodo was horrible, he felt for sure he would 
be torn in two and yet that did not deter him. Gritting his teeth, 
Frodo swore that if this was all he would have, then he would have 
it. At least this part of Aragorn he could call his own. This moment 
was his, and he would treasure it all the way into the fires of Doom. 

Aragorn tried not to move. He did not wish to cause Frodo any pain 
and wanted to allow time for the smaller body to adapt to this 
invasion, but the Hobbit was not having any of that. Frodo was 
already squirming and trying to thrust back and forth. Lost, 
completely lost, Aragorn wrapped his arms around Frodo and thrust in 
return. 

The darkness was gone, the pain was gone and Frodo felt himself 
floating higher and higher. He could see himself on an eagle’s wings, 
the air brushing his hair back, the sun upon his face and the world 
at his feet. There was no Ring, no Sauron, no evil that could touch 
him. He was free. 

Frodo cried out as he came, gasping for air. Aragorn thrust three 
more times before he joined Frodo in the skies. He felt the shock 
waves all the way through his toes, his whole body tingling and he 
fell heavily against Frodo, completely spent. They lay that way for a 
long time, long after the sun had risen high in the sky.
 
***

“Frodo, there is blood.” 

Aragorn had tried to cuddle the Hobbit in his arms, but Frodo had 
left him to clean himself in the brook. In the process, Aragorn saw 
the streaks of blood on Frodo’s legs. Frodo felt achy and the pain 
returned. But it was a happy pain, it would be something he could 
hold onto when the darkness returned. 

He shrugged. “I am fine. I shall wash and then dress and we can 
return to the others.”

Frodo did just that. He lay in the stream for several minutes 
allowing the cold water to erase the sweat, blood and semen. All but 
the memories. Aragorn also joined Frodo in the water, but they did 
not touch. 

Minutes later, they were dressing and the silence seemed to hang 
between them. As Frodo turned to leave, Aragorn reached out for him. 
Frodo allowed the embrace, and the soft kiss the Ranger pressed 
against his lips. 

“I am sorry, I meant for the first time. . .to be slower.” 

“Don’t be,” was all that Frodo said. 

For the first time, Frodo smiled at him. Aragorn felt confused but 
relieved to see that smile. “I needed this, Aragorn. Trust me.” 

Frodo then turned away and re-entered the forest. Aragorn finished 
putting on his belt and followed.
 
*** 

When they returned, Frodo saw that the entire Fellowship was indeed 
in an uproar. Sam was the most upset, but Frodo quieted him with a 
kiss to his cheek. Sam was about to speak further when he noticed 
Aragorn close behind Frodo. 

Frowning, Sam did not fail to notice the slight limp Frodo had or the 
careful way he sat down near their bedding. When the others had gone 
and Sam had Frodo alone, he turned to his master questioningly. 

“Are you all right, Mr. Frodo?” 

Frodo only smiled and stroked Sam’s golden curls. 

“Sam.” 

“Yes, Mr. Frodo.” 

“Do you remember Bilbo’s birthday party?” 

“Yes.” 

“Do you remember the music, and the dancing.” 

“Yes.” 

“How you danced with Rosie?” 

Sam blushed and shook his head. “I seemed to recall I wanted another 
ale and you pushed me into her arms.” 

Frodo smiled and nodded. “I was happy then. Like now.” 

Yes, for that was all Frodo had now, moments, sands of time. Soon 
they would be gone too. Soon. 

Understanding, Sam pulled Frodo gently into his arms. 

“We’ll make it back to the Shire. We will. Before you know it, you’ll 
be at your desk and writing in your ledgers, and I’ll be in the 
garden planting next years seedlings. All will be like it was. You’ll 
see.” 

Frodo looked away and felt the tears come to his eyes as the memories 
assaulted him. No, Sam, Frodo wanted to say. No, nothing will ever be 
the same. The future was coming and with it, darkness. You can never 
go back. 

“Frodo?” 

Frodo nodded and smiled at his Sam. “What ever happens Sam. . .I wish 
you love.”

Confused and frightened, Sam watched as Frodo slowly laid down and 
burying himself in the pillows, he closed his eyes and dreamed. Frodo 
pretended that as Aragorn and Arwen and Sam and Rosie had each other, 
somewhere in that circle, he was there too. That he was not alone and 
that he had someone to watch over him. 

*** 

Amon Hen 

Frodo knew this moment would come. But not so soon. It was bitter, 
and it was painful. His heart was breaking. Cannot anyone hear it 
shattering? 

Aragorn knelt before him. His eyes were filled with pain. 

“I swore to protect you.” 

Aragorn now realized Frodo meant to go the rest of the journey alone. 
Boromir was to blame for this and Aragorn swore he would deal with 
him personally. But Frodo only looked deep into his eyes without 
answering. 

“I would have gone with you, into the very fires of Mordor.” 

Frodo nodded slowly. 

“I know. Look after the others, especially Sam. He will not 
understand.” 

“I love you, Frodo.” 

Frodo swallowed the lump that came to his throat. The end was near. 
All was fading, all was going dark. Frodo had so much he wanted to 
say. So many things. 

*I saw your future Aragorn and I was not there. I saw Sam’s and I was 
not there either. Love had never been meant for me. I was meant to 
walk alone. Don’t you see? I am a shadow now. Cold and dark. There is 
no light. No hope. But I wish you love, and I wish you happiness. I 
wish. . .I wish.* 

Frodo did not speak, nor did he weep. He could not. Not in front of 
the Ranger. If he did, Aragorn would not leave him. He would stay at 
the Hobbit’s side, forsaking everyone and his own future. But Frodo 
knew the King of Gondor had another path to take and it was not at 
one little needy Hobbit’s side. 

“I will no longer be able carry you, my little one. But let my love 
carry you and when it is over. . . come back to me.” He then amended, 
“To me and Sam.” 

Frodo smiled and put on a brave face and allowed Aragorn one last 
kiss. This time, Frodo closed his eyes, savoring the flavor and taste 
that was Aragorn. He had come to know the taste of pine cones and 
fresh green grass and the sounds of the wind upon those lips. This 
would be enough. It would carry him through, even at the end of all 
things. Even in death. *** 

“Run, Run!” Aragorn cried as he drew his sword and met the enemy 
coming up the hill. He never got the chance to say goodbye. 

Frodo turned and ran and he never looked back. 

*** 

He stood upon the riverbank and allowed the last of his tears to 
flow. They would be the last he would shed. He was letting it go now, 
letting them go. Gandalf, Bilbo, Merry, Pippin, Legolas, Gimli, 

One by one, Frodo let them fade from his memory. Aragorn, and then 
finally Sam. His dear Sam. He wished him happiness. 

Please Elbereth, Frodo begged. Let the mirror be right. Sam will 
survive this war. He will live and marry and have babies. He will 
have a long life of happiness and peace. Without him. 

Closing his eyes, Frodo resolved his fate and placing the burning 
Ring into his pocket, he made for the boats. 

*** 

“I am going to Mordor alone!” 

“Of course you are, and I am going with you!” 

Frodo felt his heart constrict as Sam made his way into the fast 
moving river. 
“No Sam, you can’t swim!” 

Frodo actually felt time stop as he watched Sam slip into the water, 
lost from his view, and into death.
 
*** 

His hand reached and pulled and soon together they sat staring at 
each other in the boat. Sam was crying, he was crying. 

*No Sam! No, you must live. You have to live.* 

He wanted to scream at the unfairness of it all and yet, somewhere 
inside, a part of Frodo longed to bridge the gap that was between 
them. To tell Sam how happy he was there with him, here at the end of 
all things. 

“I made a promise, Mr. Frodo. A promise. Don’t you leave him, Samwise 
Gamgee, and I don’t mean to. I don’t mean to.” Sam paused and shook 
his head. “I love you.” 

Frodo lost his nerve and took Sam tenderly into his arms, holding him 
as if he were his lifeline and perhaps, he was. Sam was all he had 
left. There was no hope, Frodo had none to hold onto. But Sam did 
have hope, his Sam, and Frodo would hold tight to his gardener and 
perhaps it will be enough. He will live on through Sam’s hope. 

*** 

Frodo did not look back, he didn’t have to, he knew Sam was 
following. So the Ringbearer began the long walk, a walk that would 
lead him to Mordor and to his most certain future, Death. 

7/10 

He sat down heavily by the tree, gasping for breath. Worried, the 
blond hobbit paused in his step and turned to look at his master. 

“Mr. Frodo? Are you all right?” 

“Yes, Sam. I just need to rest a moment.” 

Joining his master, Samwise Gamgee pulled out his water bottle, and 
offered Frodo a drink. Frodo didn’t hesitate; giving Sam a smile, he 
took a long gulp. Then, handing it back to his old friend, he stared 
deeply into the gentle gardener’s face. Samwise took a long drink as 
well and after putting it back, he suddenly felt the scrutiny. 

Once again they were all alone. It reminded Sam of the day he had 
chased after his master and spotted him at the waterfalls. Before 
making his presence known, Sam had taken a few long glances at 
Frodo’s naked and wet body in the pond. It had completely aroused Sam 
just to stare at that lithe and golden tanned form. Frodo had nothing 
to be ashamed of -- every inch of him was beautiful. Of course, as a 
young child, Sam had fallen for Frodo immediately. How could he not, 
with those big eyes that were as blue as robin's eggs. 

Sam still remembered that day he met Frodo in the garden. Frodo had 
been reading a book and Sam had followed his gaffer, pretending, to 
be interested in planting next year’s roses for Master Bilbo. Sam 
already knew all about the roses but he needed an excuse to get a 
peek at Bilbo’s heir. 

Sam had stood quietly at the gate staring fondly at the figure that 
looked just like an elf out of a story book, one that Bilbo had been 
reading him a few weeks before. It was about an Elf prince who had 
gone to a far away place and had fallen in love with a lovely 
princess. But the Princess’s father, the King, did not want the match 
and so he placed a powerful spell on the Elf, putting him in a deep 
sleep. A sleep that he didn’t awaken from for many years. When he 
finally awoke, the King had long since died and the Princess had wed 
another and had had many children. The Prince had become so broken 
hearted that he fell back into a deep sleep. Sam too had been heart 
broken, so much so that at first, he didn’t want Bilbo to continue 
the story. But Bilbo promised a happy ending. He said that the Prince 
slept again for a long time and then one day, he woke up and found 
himself being watched by a lovely woman who was even more beautiful 
than his first love. His heart had rejoiced at the blessings of 
Elbereth and the Prince swept the beautiful girl into his arms and 
took her back to his kingdom and wed her. They had many children and 
lived happily ever after. 

The moral of the story Sam couldn’t possibly have guessed, so Bilbo 
told him: “True love can happen more then once in a lifetime. Never 
give up on love for it has no time limit and no boundaries.” 

Staring at Frodo at the fence, Sam had just about come to his senses 
when the young gentlehobbit had looked up from his book and caught 
the spy at the gate. Smiling, he had waved to him. Instead of 
returning the wave, Sam had turned and run home as fast as he could. 
He had to tell his mama that he had found the one he wanted to marry 
when he got older. And that he was an elf. 

At the time, his mama had been sick and just simply laughed. Later, 
just before she finally fell into a sleep from which she never awoke, 
she had pulled Sam to her bedside. Her last words to him were to 
follow his heart, no matter what anyone tells him in this life, no 
matter how many people say it's wrong. Sam did. 

He had loved Frodo then, and in all these years, his love had only 
grown stronger. He would do anything for Frodo. Anything. He just 
wished he knew what he could do here and now to make Frodo’s burden 
lighter. 

“Mr. Frodo?”

Frodo turned away -- it was his turn to blush -- and he shrugged. 
“I’m ready, Sam.” 

Getting to his feet, Frodo began to walk once more, and Sam joined 
him, following right behind. 

*** 

Night had fallen, and Frodo watched as Sam finished putting out the 
fire and then snuggled into the blankets beside his Master. After a 
long moment of silence, Frodo whispered softly in the dark, "Sam?" 

“Yes, Mr. Frodo.” 

“I’m cold.” 

“. . .Would you like my blanket?” 

“No, that would leave *you* cold. . .how about if we. . .snuggle?” 

Without another word, Frodo felt a large weight slide up against him. 
Warmth started to fill him from his toes to his neck. Moments later, 
they fell into a deep sleep. 

When morning came, Frodo awoke to find that Sam was still sound 
asleep burrowed into him. Staring down at his Sam, Frodo once again 
felt exceedingly warm. But oh! He wished Aragorn were here! Frodo 
tried to envision the ranger in his mind but found that his face was 
fading. In its place was Sam's, so real, so close, so loving. 

Without another thought, Frodo bent down and placed a loving kiss on 
the top of the golden curls. Then, Sam opened his eyes. Blinking 
several times, he turned and stared up at the beloved face from his 
dreams to see that it was even more real and beautiful than in sleep. 

“Master?” 

Frodo hesitated a moment and then touched a gentle kiss upon Sam’s 
lips. Sam opened his mouth in obvious delight and put all his heart 
and soul into the embrace. 

This was their very first passionate kiss. Since Rivendell, Sam had 
tried several times to get his Master to bestow upon him the 
affection he so willingly gave to Aragorn, but never got more than a 
few quick pecks on the cheek and soft, light kisses on the lips. It 
had left Sam wanting more but unsure as to how to go about getting 
it. In the end, Frodo would simply bid him goodnight and roll over 
and go to sleep. Sam had been driven to such heights of expectation 
that the abrupt ending had left him hurting in the worst way. He just 
wished he'd had the nerve to make the first move. But it wasn’t his 
place? Was it? 

Opening his mouth, Sam sucked on the tongue that entered and he 
relished the taste that was his Frodo. Oh, how he wanted more, so 
much more. But would this end soon, leaving Sam hanging on the edge 
like always? Someday, he knew he would fall off that edge and he 
could only hope that it would be straight into the arms of Frodo 
Baggins. 

Sam waited for the moment to end, waited for Frodo to call the 
proceedings to a halt but instead, Sam soon felt fingers probing and 
reaching, touching him gently at first, and then more hungrily. 

Sam, in return, reached, pulling that dear face and body closer to 
his. Yes, yes! his own body called out. Please, more! I need this as 
much as you do. Oh, so many things he wanted to say to his Master, so 
many things and now (as usual) the words just wouldn’t come. Perhaps 
he could show Frodo instead. 

A trail of kisses burned Frodo’s skin and he held onto his gardener 
tightly, enjoying the ride. He realized that in this life, one must 
take what is offered, and he would take of this what he could. Sam 
pressed soft kisses on Frodo's chest and continued down to his 
stomach, making his Master giggle when he touched a rather sensitive 
spot. Delighted that he made Frodo laugh, Sam continued the loving 
kisses, only for Frodo to reach down and pull him back into his arms. 

“Sam, my Sam. I do love you.” 

Sam nodded and tried to repeat the same words but they caught in his 
throat, so instead, he kissed those pouty, pink lips. 

The arousal was obvious and Sam could feel his member pressing 
against Frodo’s hardness. It was their first time and Sam wasn’t 
exactly sure what to do. Frodo smiled and stroked his hair in his 
usual soothing way and Sam suddenly realized where this was going to 
lead. He had heard about this -- he just wished he knew what steps to 
take to make it enjoyable for them both. 

“Take me, Sam, take me,” Frodo had whispered in his ear before taking 
a gentle nip. 

Sam only pulled that face towards his, shaking his head. “No taking -
- it's called giving, Frodo. To make love.” 

Frodo swallowed and allowed a few tears to fall from his eyes, and 
Sam eagerly kissed them away, returning to the gentle touches of his 
hands and lips upon the one he had craved and loved all the days of 
his life. But it was not exactly as he had imagined, was it? In Sam’s 
younger days, he had fantasized that his Master would be the one to 
take control. That Frodo would be the one burying himself deep inside 
his body, and not the other way round. Perhaps that dream would come 
true, but for now, he would give whatever he could to Frodo. He had 
to. Because he loved him even more than the Shire he so dearly 
missed. 

They snuggled and continued to kiss until finally, Frodo lifted his 
legs and thrust in eagerness against Sam’s body, showing him what he 
wanted. Smiling lightly, Sam made himself more comfortable and then 
paused when he realized that Frodo was totally unprepared, no matter 
how much he writhed and tried to cajole. 

“Please!” Frodo called, reaching tenderly for his Sam’s face and 
stroking his cheek. 

Sam shook his head. “Just a minute, Frodo love." He vanished from 
Frodo’s arms, leaving the Master Hobbit aching with impatience, but 
he didn’t have to wait long. Sam returned holding something in his 
hands. Frodo noticed the vial and smiled as Sam opened it and dumped 
the contents into his hands, rolling it ever so gently to make it 
warm. Returning to Frodo’s arms, he rubbed the slick oil on his 
hardened member and Frodo’s puckered opening. 

“Cooking oil. The last, I’m afraid. But it will be well used.” 

Frodo laughed and enjoyed the thrill of his Sam above him, his weight 
all around him and the loving hands that worked their magic and 
brought him to great heights of ecstasy. Now sure that Frodo was well 
lubricated, Sam returned to his original position and slowly began to 
nudge his cock into the compliant body. 

Frodo felt the first sensation of something pressing against him and 
waited for the pain to come as it had with Aragorn. But it didn’t 
come. Instead, Frodo felt his body open willingly to accept the 
intruder inside. Warmth wrapped around him and Frodo thought he had 
entered a cocoon made of love that seemed to splash a thousand bright 
colors before his eyes. He moaned when Sam touched something deep 
inside him and Frodo felt as if he were being pricked with pine 
needles set aflame. It was a new sensation and one he wanted to feel 
again and again. 

Sam moved slowly at first, working his way along as he continued to 
kiss and hold and caress Frodo in the hopes of showing his love to 
the gentle hobbit. Frodo whimpered, wanting and hoping for 
completion, but Sam continued his movements. All Frodo could do was 
hang on tightly and enjoy all that was happening to him. These were 
things he had always imagined in his dreams but never thought they 
would ever come true. He should have known that the hand of his 
gardener could not only restore life to a dying lily but also renew 
his master with a loving touch. 

“Sam, oh Sam,” Frodo groaned, not wanting it to ever end. He felt 
loved once again, so complete, so happy. Don’t let it stop! 

Sam smiled, seeing the love and joy in Frodo’s eyes. For one brief 
moment, sadness and loneliness were not dwelling in those deep, blue 
eyes and Sam felt pride in knowing he was the cause of them 
vanishing. But Sam felt his own needs being pushed to the forefront 
and he picked up his pace, causing Frodo’s gaze to return to his. He 
was ready. Now! 

Sam beat down against Frodo, putting all his heart and soul into it. 
“Feel me, feel me!” he whispered as his body sweated and shook. “Feel 
my love. You are not alone. Never alone! Say it!” 

Frodo gasped and clung to Sam, his fingers clawing at the soft skin. 
“Never alone. You are with me!” 

“I love you!” Sam cried as he reached his climax, and Frodo's 
followed in his wake. 

They stayed still for several long moments, allowing the sensations 
to blissfully evanesce until they faded away completely. But not the 
memory of them. Frodo smiled and continued to hold on to his Sam, 
while Samwise stroked Frodo’s face and curls, mesmerized at the 
remembered look of ecstasy on that face. 

It was even more beautiful than in his dreams. 

“Oh Sam.” Before he realized it, Frodo began to weep and Sam shook 
his head, feeling his member soften and slide slowly out. Pressing 
himself against Frodo, he cooed and whispered softly, doing what he 
could to console him. But Frodo only smiled. “I-I never thought....” 
Frodo swallowed and then laughed lightly. 

Seeing this, Sam waited, staring at Frodo in confusion. “Thought 
what?” 

“That it could be this wonderful. Thank you, my dear Sam. Thank you, 
for giving me something to hold on to.” 

Sam felt the tears come to his eyes at this proclamation and he 
shrugged, refusing to move away from the one he loved. “I wish you 
could believe what I'm saying ...but I'll say it anyhow, beggin' yer 
pardon, sir. You've never been alone since you came to Bag End. I've 
loved you then and I love you now. All of you. No matter what comes, 
I'll be there for you. I'll be that one, someone to watch over you.” 

They both wept in each other’s arms and for a long time, they 
remained cuddling, kissing and loving. Happy and filled with hope. 
Hope rekindled and reborn. 

*** 

It watched from afar. Watched with puzzled concern. At first he 
thought the fat one was trying to squish the littler one in hopes of 
taking the precious, but now he could see it was something else the 
fat one had been doing. Narrowing his eyes, he curled himself behind 
the rock, wondering for just a moment what it was like to make love. 
But the moment *was* just a moment and then Gollum’s thoughts 
returned to the all- consuming need to find his precious and get it 
back. Not matter what it took, no matter who he had to kill. 

“My preciousssss!” 

*** 

He stared out into the east, seeing the red cloud hovering in the 
dark valley beyond. Somewhere out there were Frodo and Sam, slowly 
making there way into great peril while he was here, tending to a 
King bewitched. 

A movement came from behind him and the white wizard walked up to 
Aragorn. 

“Do not regret your decision to leave him. Frodo must finish this 
task alone.” 

“He is not alone. Sam went with him.” 

“Did he? Did he indeed? Good. Yes, very good.” 

Aragorn turned to Gandalf and shook his head. “I fear for him, 
Gandalf.” Putting his head down, he added softly, “I love him. Sam, 
too.” 

“I know you do, Aragorn. But the future lies in waters that cannot be 
seen. They are full of shadow.” 

“It's all wrong. Frodo thinks you're dead, and that his own death is 
next. I could see it in his eyes. He doesn’t think he will survive.” 

“In a way, he won't.” 

“Surely there is something that can be done for him and Sam?” 

Gandalf finally turned to Aragorn and the human Ranger was stunned to 
see the tears in the Wizard's eyes. “I have loved that hobbit since 
the day I first saw him. I never had a child, but if I was to have 
one, it would have been Frodo. I dreaded all along that something was 
meant to happen to this one shining Hobbit and that something was to 
decide the fate of all Middle-Earth. That is why I asked you to watch 
over him, even when I became suspicious of Bilbo’s ring. I still had 
hope that Frodo would not be forced to leave the Shire. As a child, 
he always wanted to know about the outside world and I was reluctant 
to tell him anything. I cared for him so much, and having seen the 
worst of Middle-Earth, I wanted him to stay in a place of safety and 
comfort.” 


“I always thought you wanted all of the Shire and the Hobbits to stay 
safe.” 

“I did. For Frodo’s sake. He was so innocent.” 

“He will survive. Won’t he, Gandalf?” 

Gandalf shrugged and looked to the East to see the fires of Mordor 
rage above in the heavens. 

“Will he come back to me?” 

“Once, in Rivendell, before he awoke, I was given a vision. I am not 
sure where it came from -- Elbereth, perhaps. I saw the sea and I saw 
Frodo upon a great white ship leaving the shores of Middle-Earth. He 
was so small and so fragile. I wept in sadness until I saw myself 
standing beside him. Elrond was there and Bilbo too. That gave me 
hope. Hope that he will live, and though it will cause him great 
pain, much agony and loss, I saw he would not be alone. A light has 
been cast above him and the love of those beyond the barriers are 
shedding their tears before Manwe. No, I do not know for sure. But I 
can hope. We can hope. That is all we have left.” 

Aragorn wiped the tears from his eyes and stared at the heavens, but 
not at Mordor. For several moments he was silent, and then he spoke. 
“I will lose him then? Sam will lose him too? We will all lose him in 
the end?” 

Gandalf shrugged. “He was never yours to begin with, Aragorn. Not 
Bilbo’s, not Sam’s, not anyone’s. He is a free spirit.” 

“He never wanted to be. He just wanted to be loved. To live happily 
ever after.” 

Gandalf smiled and gently laid a hand on Aragorn’s shoulder, looking 
deeply into the Ranger's eyes before answering him. “He is and will 
be loved and in the end, he will have his 'happily ever after', 
either in this world or that beyond. For the Powers that be are 
merciful and they have grown to love him as deeply as you and Sam 
have come to love him.” 

The words should have brought comfort, but for Aragorn, they did not. 
He wanted a happy ever after for Frodo and he wanted it in his arms. 
They could be happy. He could make all of them happy and loved. 
Arwen, Sam, Frodo. He could, couldn’t he? 

*** 

She stood proudly in her protected valley, and called to the Lord of 
Rivendell.... 

“The power of the enemy is growing. Sauron will use his puppet, 
Saruman, to destroy the people of Rohan. Isengard has been unleashed. 
The Eye of Sauron now turns to Gondor, the last free kingdom of men. 
His war on this country will come swiftly. 

"He senses the Ring is close. The strength of the Ringbearer is 
failing. In his heart, Frodo begins to understand. The quest...will 
claim his life. You know this.” 

Elrond stood in the window gasping painfully and felt the tears come 
to his eyes. He had not wept so deeply since his wife had gone into 
the West. Now his heart longed to shield one little Hobbit from 
danger while he had no choice by to stand idly by in the safety of 
Rivendell, trying to save his daughter's immortality. He still 
remembered holding that Hobbit in his arms and feeling a small part 
of his heart being taken away. So beautiful, so innocent a creature. 
A being so pure that his aura had forever changed him. 

“You have foreseen it. It is the risk we all took. In the gathering 
dark, the will of the Ring grows stronger. It works hard now to find 
its way back into the hands of men, men who are so easily seduced by 
its power. The young Captain of Gondor has but to extend his hand, 
take the ring for his own, and the world will fall. It is close now. 
So close to achieving its goal. For Sauron will have dominion over 
all life on this earth even unto the ending of the world. The time of 
the Elves is over. Do we leave Middle-earth to its fate? Do we let 
them stand alone? 

“What of Frodo?” 

“There is nothing you can do for him now, my Lord Elrond. But you can 
help the world of Men. Please.... If not for Aragorn, if not for 
Arwen, then for Frodo and all that he is about to sacrifice for the 
good of all!” 

*** 

The War was over and Gandalf stood proudly with his old and new 
friends. Aragorn strode to the Wizard's side, watching the last of 
the Orcs fall as the Huorns avenged the trees of Fangorn. 

“Sauron's wrath will be terrible, his retribution swift. The battle 
for Helm's Deep is over. The battle for Middle-earth is about to 
begin. All our hopes now lie with two little hobbits, somewhere in 
the wilderness.” 

Aragorn stared off into the forest and prayed as he never had before 
that the two hobbits he loved most in the world were safe from harm. 

*** 

“I wonder if we'll ever be put into songs or tales?” 

“What?” 

“I wonder if people will ever say, "Let's hear about Frodo and the 
Ring", and they'll say, "Yes, it's one of my favorite stories!" 
"Frodo was really courageous, wasn't he, Dad?" "Yes, my boy, the most 
famousest of hobbits, and that's saying' a lot. " 

“You've left out one of the chief characters... Samwise the Brave! I 
want to hear more about Sam." Frodo paused and turned to Sam. "Frodo 
wouldn't have got far without Sam." 

“Now Mr. Frodo, you shouldn't make fun. I was being serious.” 

“So was I.” 

Sam smiled adjusting his back pack. “Samwise the Brave! Hmm.” 

Frodo smiled and continued to walk along the forest path, until he 
suddenly felt violently ill. Falling to his knees, he began to retch 
horribly. Sam lost his smile and acted quickly, wrapping his arms 
around Frodo. He allowed the spell of sickness to pass, all the while 
rubbing his master’s back consolingly. After several minutes, Frodo's 
stomach was empty and though he was still nauseous, it was fading. 

“Mr. Frodo?” 

“I’m alright, Sam. Just a little bit of an upset stomach. Come on, we 
must hurry. Let’s find Gollum.” 

Seeing his Master’s concerned eyes, he gave in, but as he trailed 
after Frodo, the worry remained in his own eyes. He also did not miss 
Frodo clutching his stomach in the days to come. 

8/10 

Frodo felt himself falling in between that dimension of half sleep 
and wakefulness. He could still feel the weight of the Ring, which 
now seemed to consume all his thoughts. He felt tired, more tired 
then he had ever been in his entire life, like someone was draining 
his energy, taking it from him, and giving him nothing in return.

Not only did he find himself exhausted and with dark, alien thoughts 
filling his head, but he could barely remember anything of the past 
now. Not the Shire, not his cousins, not even Bilbo. All of the 
people he loved seemed to be fading from him. All of it being 
consumed by Sauron’s Ring of evil.
 
But, he had to keep going. There was something important he had to 
do. Destroy the Ring. But why? Why did he have to do it? Why couldn’t 
he keep it? It was such a pretty ring? His birthday present. 

*Once it takes us, it never...lets go.* 

Allowing himself to drift away from the hunger and thirst that seemed 
to plague him, Frodo felt himself drawn away to some unknown place. 

He was up on a cliff, the wind was blowing and the sun was shining. 
His chest was bare and the Ring still clung to his neck, glittering 
in the sunlight. But there was something else in this strange place. 
A small bundle that was in his arms. He gazed down and could see 
movement in the gathered white linen. Smiling, he pushed aside the 
layers and beheld the most shocking sight. Two blue eyes looked up at 
him. Little hands reached out to him and Frodo realized he was 
staring at a baby, but not just any baby. His baby. 

Frodo cooed at the child, and tried to determine its gender and 
whether it was a hobbit or human baby. But before he could get a good 
look, the baby seemed to change before him. The blue eyes flashed and 
became red as fire. He cried out, and saw the eye and the fires of 
Mount Doom. When Frodo finally turned to look at his baby, he saw 
that it was gone. All that he held in his arms was the linen in which 
it had been swathed, now blood-stained and soiled in black ash. 

Where was the baby? What happened? Terror struck his heart and Frodo 
cried out. 

He opened his eyes and slowly came back to the present. He was in the 
opening of a cave. Sam was there, sleeping beside him. Frodo’s hand 
moved to the necklace and the Ring and fingered it without really 
thinking about it. 
It was then that he appeared. Gollum. Peering in at him and smiling 
evily. 

“Wake up, Wake up sleepies!” 

He climbed down and woke Sam.

Frodo moved his hands down towards his stomach and touched a certain 
area gingerly. There was something here, he could feel the small bump 
now. It wasn’t possible? It just couldn’t be? Could it? 

The Ring? Was this a new torment from the Ring? To fool Frodo into 
not destroying it? Male Hobbits don’t have babies. No, just not 
possible. 

Awake now, Sam was muttering about sleeping too much. Frodo barely 
heard him. His thoughts were drifting. Drifting- could it be, and if 
so, who had fathered it? Sam? Aragorn? Who?

Somewhere, a conversation was had, but Frodo was only half listening; 
even when he bit into the lembas bread that Sam has given him, he 
wondered if his gardener had any idea of his master’s condition. 
Well, there was not much Sam could do about it. There was no going 
back now. 

Sam held out his hand and Frodo swallowed and got to his feet. No 
matter. Whatever was happening to his body, it was going to have to 
wait. He had the quest to complete. Then whatever happened, would. 

*** 

What was it that made Sam hate Gollum so? As Frodo climbed the 
horrible stairway, he tried over and over again to understand all 
that had been happening to him these past few weeks. His lifeforce 
was getting weaker. His body was getting heavier. The pain seemed to 
plague him at ever turn. The Ring was almost shouting in his head 
now. It was making him promise after promise and Frodo could no 
longer ignore it. He also didn’t feel very well. He felt so sick, all 
of it tied to his stomach and the terrible pains in his side. 
Something was trying to tell him that this was all wrong, that 
something about the baby was wrong. 

But he had to continue. He could not give in. He couldn’t. Too many 
counted on him. Aragorn. Frodo closed his eyes and glanced down and 
felt his head almost explode from the dizziness. If only he were 
here. Why aren’t you here, Aragorn? I need you. Sam and I need you.

But Frodo knew his wish was hopeless. Aragorn was probably dead by 
now for all he knew. Frodo couldn’t even remember Aragorn’s face. Not 
even his smell. Pine cones and forest trees...but what were those 
smells like? 

Frodo felt himself slip slightly and heard Sam calling to him. 
Grabbing another hand hold, he looked back up and saw that Gollum was 
waiting for him. 
He had to continue. He had to go on. This time he couldn’t give up 
hope. If for no other reason, he had to live so his baby could be 
born. 

Shaking his head, Frodo tried to swallow and found that he couldn’t. 
His mouth was completely dry.

“Come Master, Come to Smeagol,” Gollum called.

Frodo reached and he could hear Sam’s warning below him. But he 
continued to climb, his hand reaching for Gollum’s.
 
*** 

*If you destroy me, not only will your precious Samwise die, but so 
will the unborn baby. Let me live and you will have all that you 
desire and more.* 

Frodo woke from sleep to see Sam standing over him. His Sam, the one 
he was not so sure he could trust anymore. Gollum had already voiced 
what Frodo dreaded all along. Sam would take the Ring from him. No! 
He can’t have it. It’s mine! He closed his eyes briefly to clear the 
awful thought.

"I'm sorry to wake you, Mr. Frodo. We have to be moving on."

"It's dark still…."

"It's always dark here." 

Oh Sam, Frodo called in his mind. I can trust you, can’t I? You 
promised, you promised to watch over me.
 
*** 

Aragorn could not believe his eyes as he stared at Elrond in King 
Theoden’s tent.

“My Lord Elrond.”

“I come on behalf of one whom I love. Arwen is dying.” 

Aragorn felt his body grow cold, his thoughts returning to the gentle 
soul he left behind in Rivendell. Elrond spoke, but Aragorn felt the 
loss of all those around him. Arwen, Frodo, Sam. They were all dying 
and there was nothing he could do to stop it. Nothing! 

“Become, who you were born to be.”

Aragorn took the sword Anduril from Elrond’s grasp and felt the power 
and strength return to him. There was still hope. He would save them, 
he would save them all! 

"Ónen i-Estel Edain. ('I gave Hope to the men') Ú-chebin Estel anim." 
('I have kept none for myself') 

Minutes later, after his departure of the camp with Legolas and Gimli 
at his side, he allowed his thoughts to rest on those he loved one 
last time. Arwen. Samwise. Frodo. Please live. Live!
 
*** 

*Save me Father, save me. Don’t do this. Don’t destroy the Ring. I 
want to live. To love you and Sam. Please?* 

The small voice called to him, but Frodo closed his eyes to it. It 
was a trick. The Ring was doing this to try and persuade him from 
fulfilling his quest. He had to destroy it. But in the darkness of 
the tunnel, with Gollum showing his true self in the ultimate 
betrayal, Frodo felt the fear go through him. 

“Oh Sam, Oh Sam. I’m sorry. Forgive me.” 

*** 

He awoke in the cold. His clothes had been taken from him and the 
sound of Orc voices filled his ears. A cold fear began to take its 
toll, as Frodo remembered the tunnels and then something coming from 
behind him. A feeling of something burning him in the back. Then 
darkness. 

He tried to reach for his stomach to sense the unborn child, but his 
hands were bound and then Frodo realized that the Ring was gone too. 
No, NO! Terror took hold of him even when the Orcs began to approach 
him. 
*** 

"Give It to me...Give me the Ring, Sam."

Sam stared at the dangling gold circlet. The rescue of his master had 
succeeded but now with the Ring in his hands, he wasn’t so sure about 
anything anymore. Should he give the Ring back to Frodo?

“Sam! Give me the Ring!”

Sam seemed to emerge from a daze and finally returned it to his 
master, not sure why he saw fear in Frodo’s eyes.

“You must understand...the Ring is my burden. It will destroy you, 
Sam."
Perhaps, thought Sam, but what then will it do to you? 

Soon they were disguised in Orc armor and once again, Frodo continued 
his quest, his thought once again consumed by the Ring now replaced 
around his neck. 

*** 

He could go no further. He was lost now. Sam and Aragorn were lost. 
Middle-Earth was lost. The baby was lost. Frodo couldn’t move. He 
could only stare up at the sky and see the red eye upon him.

Staring down at him was Sam, trying to give him what love and energy 
he had left. But none of it was working. None of this was working. We 
will die here if we stay.

“Do you remember the Shire, Mr. Frodo? It'll be spring soon and the 
orchards will be in blossom, and the birds will be nesting in the 
hazel thicket. And the whistle in the summer barley in the Lower 
fields. And eating the first of the strawberries with cream. Do you 
remember the taste of strawberries?"

"No, Sam...I can't recall the taste of food...nor the sound of 
water...or the touch of grass..." Frodo stared on into the darkness. 
“I can’t remember even the people I love. What is love? Oh Sam! 
I'm...I'm naked in the dark...there's nothing... nothing, no veil 
between me and the Wheel of Fire!"

He could stand no more. Sam narrowed his eyes and allowed anger to 
rule his body. "Then let us be rid of It! Once and for all! Come on, 
Mr. Frodo! I can't carry It for you, but I can carry you! Come on!"

Frodo could feel Sam picking him up into his arms. He could smell the 
burning ash and fire around him but he couldn’t feel the baby 
anymore. 

It was gone now, all gone. Only the Eye remained. 

*** 

It was the time of reckoning. Frodo stood at the edge and held the 
Ring above the flames. It was done. He had succeeded, but in his 
heart he knew that his life was now over. Sam’s and his. There would 
be no escape.

*Spare me and you can have it all.*

Frodo stared at the Ring and felt the pull once more, and the voices 
called to him.

He could see the Shire once more. He was in the garden, Sam was 
raking away the leaves as Spring was coming. In that garden, a child 
frolicked and played. He couldn’t tell if it was a boy or a girl, but 
the child was happy and laughing. 

Aragorn was there too with Arwen. They were sitting upon a great 
horse and were making their way towards them. He could see himself 
smiling and happy, with the golden ring upon his finger and a crown 
upon his head.

The sun shined above and the air was sweet with the smell of apple 
blossoms. It was over, the war was over and everything was back as it 
should be. 

Bilbo was sitting under a tree, sleeping. Gandalf was beside him, 
holding his staff and reading the Red book.

In the distance, Frodo could see his cousins playing with Legolas and 
Gimli. The world was safe and all could be his – as long as he didn’t 
destroy the Ring. 

"Throw It in the fire! What are you waiting for? Just let It go!" 

Frodo heard the voice from far away. The voice was wrong. He must not 
destroy it. He had to save it, keep it. Yes!

He turned, and to Sam’s horror, he put the Ring upon his finger. “The 
Ring is mine!” 

“NO!” 

*** 

The flow of fire was all around them. It was over. Frodo felt free. 
His thoughts were his own once again. Beside him was his Sam. His 
Sam. 

"It's gone! It's done! I can see the Shire...The Brandywine 
River...Bag End...Gandalf's fireworks...The lights in the party 
tree." 

Sam stared into his Master’s eyes and then, he began to see someone 
else’s form take shape. "Rosie Cotton dancing...She had ribbons in 
her hair.…If ever I was to marry someone...It would have been her... 
It would have been her!" Sam felt those eyes on him and suddenly 
realized what he had just said. 

But Frodo didn’t cry. He only took his Sam into his arms, while his 
gardener wept in sorrow and grief.

“I’m sorry, I’m sorry Frodo. I do love you. But I didn’t realize 
until now. I love Rosie too.”

“Its alright, Sam. Remember, its all right to love more then one 
person. I loved Aragorn and I loved you. Differently, but it was 
love. In the end, I would have shared even you with Rosie.” 

Frodo glanced down at his stomach, he put his hand to it and waited. 
But he didn’t feel anything. Tears filled his eyes and he stared back 
at Sam. 

“I'm glad to be with you, Samwise Gamgee...Here at the end of all 
things." 

The wept together until finally they drifted away into oblivion. Out 
of time and space. 

*** 

“How is Sam?” 

“He is sleeping now. Frodo?” 

“I don’t know, Gandalf. I’m using every skill I can think of and 
still he is fading from me.” 

Aragorn laid beside the hastily made bed in the tent and stared at 
the remains of the hobbit he loved most. There was almost nothing 
left to him. His skin was burned and ashen, his body as thin as a 
skeleton. He was bruised in every place imaginable and there were 
lash marks covering his back, not to mention the missing index finger 
on his left hand. This was no longer the gentle hobbit he had seen so 
long ago in the waterfalls of the Shire. This was another that 
Aragorn knew not and still, his heart wept in relief that at least 
Frodo had not perished in the flames of Mordor. If he died, at least 
it would be here, beside him. 

NO! He would not give up. He wouldn’t. Not yet!

The Ranger continued to check the body for other wounds and paused 
when he felt something in Frodo’s abdomen. He checked again and his 
eyes widened.

 “Gandalf!” 

Moving forward, Gandalf placed his hands next to Aragorn’s and they 
both felt the unmistakable pressure; the Wizard gasped. “No, it 
cannot be.”

Aragorn swallowed and pressed his ear to the stomach, and he waited 
and waited. His eyes filled with tears and he gazed up at Gandalf. 
But on seeing the tears in Gandalf’s eyes, Aragorn confirmed his own 
thoughts. 

“It must be removed. If not, Frodo will surely die.”

“He’s.…” Aragorn choked and shaking his head, he looked back at 
Gandalf, filled with dread and pain. “He’s already lost a great deal 
of blood.”

“We don’t have a choice. We must act quickly.” 

As Aragorn rose to his feet, he felt Gandalf’s arms wrap around him.

“Don’t give in to this. I see more deeply then you do. This is not 
your child. This was not-Your-child. Nor was it Sam’s.”

Aragorn turned to Gandalf with horror in his eyes. “No.”

“Yes. Yes, Aragorn, he was that desperate. If this child had been 
born, it would not have been a child. It was evil. Trust me. Believe 
me.”

“Gandalf!” Closing his eyes, Aragorn covered his face with his hands 
as the tears fell down his face.

“Don’t give up. Not now! We can all grieve later. Come! We must be 
quick.” 

Aragorn followed Gandalf out of the tent, preparing to rid Frodo of 
the last evil inside of him. 

9/10

He awoke to the sounds of birds singing and the warmth of the 
sunlight upon him. He felt so comfortable. The burning and thirst 
were gone. He was on a bed, a very nice and comfortable bed. Downy 
pillows and lots of blankets. Frodo didn’t want to open his eyes. He 
wanted to stay in this lovely dream. He didn’t want to wake and find 
himself in the darkness, alone.

But the sound of footsteps got his attention and Frodo could feel he 
was being watched. Oh, no, not yet. Not yet. Let me stay here a 
little longer.

“Now, now my dear hobbit, you must awaken. We have all been waiting 
for such a terribly long time. Come on, open your eyes. You are in 
good hands. Trust me.”

Frodo heard the voice and swore it sounded familiar. Daring to do as 
he was bid, he took a breath and opened his eyes. 

There stood a tall figure at the end of his bed. He was dressed all 
in white and had white hair and a white trimmed beard. For all that, 
Frodo knew who this was.

“Gandalf!” It wasn’t possible. It just couldn’t be. 

“It is real, my dear Frodo. You are safe and sound and in Minas 
Tirith, in the protection of the King.”

Frodo smiled and unable to help himself, started to laugh. The wizard 
joined him. 

Other reunions followed. The door opened and to Frodo’s delight, all 
those he had come to love walked in to his room. Merry and Pippin, 
Gimli and Legolas. Dear Legolas. Finally a tall man entered, dressed 
in great robes. He looked clean and kingly and Frodo felt his heart 
throb in absolute joy.

“Aragorn!” Frodo left his cousins, who seemed intent on jumping on 
his bed, and threw himself into his old friend and lover’s arms.

“Frodo!” Aragorn caught him and held him. Holding him so tightly, he 
rocked the weak body in his arms, almost as if to tell himself that 
Frodo was indeed alive and well. 

“Sam?” Frodo paused in his joy to turn to the room full of friends, 
realizing that someone very dear was missing. Where was Sam? Frodo 
turned to Gandalf but the wizard had lowered his eyes.

Fear started to take hold when Aragorn nudged Frodo’s eyes to the 
door. 

There, a small figure with golden blond hair and dressed in a long 
white nightshirt stood. There was fear in this being’s eyes, as if 
not certain he would also be received in welcome.

Frodo held out his hand and Sam entered the room. Seconds later, 
Frodo had his two loves in his arms. They were alive and they were 
together again. 

However, Frodo suddenly lost his hold and seemed to pale rapidly.  He 
was still so tired.
“Enough, Frodo -- lay down. It is too soon to be up and about.” 

Gandalf collected Frodo into his arms and placed him back on the bed, 
brushing both Merry and Pippin from it in the process.

Fear gripped his friends as they watched Frodo being placed under the 
blankets looking quite small in the large bed.

“You must not get a chill. You must sleep now.”

Frodo smiled as his hand reached for his stomach. His cheeks blushed 
slightly as he realized he had best confess his current status. “I’m 
all right Gandalf. It is just so much to take in knowing that I am 
alive and you are alive and.…” Frodo laughed. “That we are all alive. 
I’m also afraid I have a confession to make and I’m not certain how 
to explain it.” He shook his head and dove in. “I’m pregnant.” 

Seeing all the stunned faces, Frodo sat up slowly and grinned. 

“I’m not crazy, believe me. I can’t believe it myself. I don’t even 
know how it all happened, but I’m pregnant. The real problem is, I 
don’t know who the father is.…” Frodo smiled at Aragorn and then at 
Sam, seeing the skepticism on their faces. “Well, I do know it’s one 
of you. I know, I know it sounds crazy but it is true. We can always 
figure it out later but….” 

It was then that Frodo stopped. His hand touched his stomach several 
times and paused. The lump was no longer there, but it was tender. 
Pushing down the blankets and not caring about his state of undress, 
Frodo pulled the shirt up and stared down at his stomach to see that 
a long gash had been cut across it. 
Frodo felt his heart stop. 

Aragorn moved to Frodo, while Legolas and Gimli quickly removed a now 
weeping Merry and Pippin from the room.

Sam remained still, staring sadly at Frodo and unable to find any 
words that would bring him comfort. Only that morning, Gandalf had 
told him about Frodo’s body being used by Sauron. About the baby. He 
had had his suspicions but he hadn’t really fathomed such a thing. A 
male hobbit having a baby. Just not natural. Not right. But seeing 
the pain in Frodo’s eyes, Sam would have given anything for that baby 
to be alive and well in his master’s body.

“Where is it? Where is my baby!”
 
Aragorn knelt before Frodo, while Gandalf took his place to Frodo’s 
left side. Their hands reached for him, but Frodo only batted them 
away.

“Where!”

“The child is dead,” Gandalf replied solemnly.

Frodo’s mouth dropped open in disbelief. Frodo turned to Aragorn and 
saw that his lover was staring back at him, in tears.

“It died when the Ring died. Try to understand, Frodo. The baby was 
evil. It was created by Sauron to stop you from dest-”

“NO!” Frodo screamed. His eyes glazed over with rage and he angrily 
began to strike out. He slammed his fists into Aragorn’s chest, just 
missing his face by inches.

Aragorn allowed the blows to hit him, unwilling to add another bruise 
on that beloved body.

“Frodo, I’m sorry.”

“No, NO! You lying bastard! You killed my baby! It’s your fault! 
Where were you? If you had been there with me, my baby would be 
alive! Your fault! You killed my baby! Don‘t deny it, you may have 
wanted my body but you never wanted a hobbit child for a son! You let 
him die on purpose! You murderer!”

Frodo felt the arms grab him, but he only turned and released his 
anger at the Wizard.

“You’re to blame as well! You promised me you would help me carry my 
burden! You liar! You filthy, horrible liar! You left me! You left me 
and now my baby is dead and it’s your fault! All of you!!! You killed 
my baby! You murderers! MURDERERS!!” 

Unable to stand it, Samwise fled the room. His knees hit the floor, 
his eyes filled with tears and his hands covered his ears in the 
hopes of silencing the screams in the other room. 

How could he ever tell Frodo that he himself had seen the remains of 
the baby before it had been burned. It wasn’t a child at all. It 
didn’t look like a hobbit, not even a human. Its eyes were blood red 
and it had teeth. No, not just teeth. Fangs. It had been an 
abomination. 

He wept bitterly, his mouth open, but no sound came from him.

Arms slowly drew around him and Sam turned to see Aragorn above him. 
He was weeping too. Sam turned and threw his arms around his neck and 
together, they wept. 

Inside the room, Gandalf held Frodo in his arms, rocking him back and 
forth, and all the while, Frodo wailed.

*** 

Two days had passed. Merry and Pippin came every morning to see how 
their cousin was, only to be sent away by Gandalf who said it was too 
soon for him to have company. 

Legolas and Gimli tried their best to ease Merry and Pippin’s sadness 
by telling them stories. But for once, a dark cloud had descended on 
the young hobbits and often, they would stay in their rooms, having 
most of their meals alone.

As for Sam, he had not journeyed near the room. He was close by, he 
would not allow himself to be too far away, but he had been unable to 
return to his Master’s side. His grief and pain were too deep. 
Instead, he often made his way to the high tower where he would stand 
by a balcony and stare out at the city of Gondor, his mind going far 
away to another place.

Aragorn often came at night to check on Frodo. He kept the fire going 
and would sometimes curl into the bed and put his arms around the 
sleeping form. But whenever Frodo looked like he would wake, Gandalf, 
who was sitting in a nearby chair, would gesture to him to leave.

It was only Gandalf who remained at Frodo’s side. He never left the 
room. Always his voice could be heard in the hallways, sometimes 
singing a gentle lullaby or just simply softly telling stories of 
long ago. 

As for Frodo, he lay in the bed consumed by grief, his eyes endlessly 
shedding tear after tear. Curled in a fetal position, he would stare 
at the empty wall in front of him, drifting away to someplace else. 

Sometimes he dreamed. But he did not dream of gardens with frolicking 
children. He dreamed of the sea and of a large white ship. 

*** 

Days passed into weeks. But no improvement was made by the 
Ringbearer. Instead, he seemed to fall into a catatonic state which 
no one seemed able to penetrate. 

*** 

Sam saw them coming. He knew the day would come when the elves would 
arrive in Minas Tirith. Aragorn had just been crowned by Gandalf that 
morning and the crowds cheered in happiness for the return of the 
King.

Now new shouts of joy were heard. 

Sam watched as the King was reunited with the elf woman he had loved 
for so long. Remaining at the balcony, Sam lowered his eyes and 
wondered what the future held. Would Frodo ever come back to them? 
Could they ever go back to the way it was before the Ring? 

“Sam, you should go see Frodo. Maybe a friendly face would help. 
Gandalf won’t let me or Pippin see him. I would feel mighty obliged 
if you did.”

Sam shook his head.

“Why won’t you see him? He is still your master, he is still your 
friend. So what that he was pregnant? What difference does it make?!”

Sam turned to Merry in anguish. “Don’t you start with me, Meriadoc     
Brandybuck. Not seeing Frodo has nothing to do with that abomination 
that was in his body. It was no baby. I saw it. What remained of it.”

“Then why won’t you see him? He needs you?”

“I don’t know what he needs, but I’m not sure it’s me. You weren’t 
there, Merry. All the way to Mordor, I kept telling him I loved him. 
That I would never leave him, that he was the only one for me. Then 
at the end, the end of all things. What was I thinkin’ about? Not 
Frodo. Rosie, Rosie Cotton. A girl I told him I didn’t want. Now I 
realize I do. I don’t understand these feelings. I only know that I 
hurt Frodo. I hurt.”

His eyes filled with tears, and Sam turned back to the balcony. Merry 
reached out and put his arm on Sam’s shoulder. After a moment, their 
heads leaned together in comfort.

“You still love Frodo.”

“Yes, I still love him.”

“Frodo still loves you.”

“How can you be so sure?”

“I just am. Go to him, Sam. Please.”

“I’ll try.” 

*** 

The room was empty, all accept for Frodo, who was in a deep sleep on 
the bed. Sam walked in and closed the door slowly behind him. He 
glanced out the window to see that Aragorn was now standing on the 
steps of the cathedral with his arms wrapped around Arwen. Sam didn’t 
recognize all the elves that had come but he did know the dark haired 
elven king that stood partly in the shadows away from the couple. His 
face was unreadable.

“Sam.”

Sam turned to the bed to see Frodo looking at him. Surprised to see 
his friend awake and speaking, he moved to the bed and joined Frodo 
on it.

Frodo sadly gazed at Sam, not sure what to say. He didn’t think he 
had the strength to do what he was about to do. 

“Sam, my Sam. I’m glad you’ve come.”

“I’m sorry I was away. Yes, I’m here now. Your Sam is here.” He 
reached for Frodo, but Frodo pulled away from the reaching arms and 
instead, put his hands together in his lap and stared at them. 

“Mr. Frodo?”

“I free you from your promise. I free you from me, Sam.”

“What? What are you saying?” asked Sam. His eyes were now filling 
with renewed tears.

“So you can be with your Rosie. I want you two to be happy. I want 
you both to have lots of babies.”

“Now, now you stop right there! Don’t you do this to me! Don’t you 
speak of leaving and such nonsense. We are going back to the Shire. 
Do you hear me, and everything is going to be all right. Everything 
will be as it was before.”

Frodo shook his head and when his eyes met Sam’s, they too were 
filled with tears.

“You can never go back. I can never go back to the way it was. I’m no 
longer that Frodo you once knew. Your Master. It’s alright, Sam, you 
don’t have to watch over me anymore. I can do that myself. I can go 
on, alone.”

Sam shook his head. “Stop it! Stop it! Don’t say such things.”

Frodo only touched Sam’s cheek and smiled sadly. “I let you go. It’s 
for the best, Sam. Just like Aragorn. He has Arwen now, and you will 
have Rosie. I saw it in Galadriel’s mirror. You were surrounded by 
babies and children. Lots of them. I saw Aragorn and Arwen together. 
They will have babies too. You will all be so happy and all of this 
will just be one bad memory.”

“No! I love you!”

“I-I love you too. I still love you and Aragorn. That has not 
changed.”

“Then why are you saying these things!” Sam wept openly now. He rose 
from the bed, not sure whether he wanted to hit Frodo to try and 
knock some sense into him or just simply run away.

“Because I can never go back. The Ring has taken me Sam. There is 
nothing left. Nothing.”

Unable to bear anymore, Sam ran from the room. He bumped into 
something but in his tears, he did not look up, only moved out of the 
way and continued to run. 

The Elvish Lord watched the young hobbit’s departure with sad eyes. 
He had arrived a few minutes ago and had listened in on the hobbits’ 
conversation. He hadn’t meant to eavesdrop but he had been unable to 
walk away as he heard the pain in young Frodo’s voice.

Opening the door, he walked in and saw Frodo standing by the window. 
He was looking at his hand upon his chest. He looked so small and so 
fragile now. So tiny, almost like a child. But not like a child. No, 
Frodo was changed now, forever changed. His innocence was gone, 
stolen away from him, down to the last drop of it.

Still, Frodo radiated a light of such beauty that Elrond could feel 
its energy surrounding the room.

“Master Frodo.”

Frodo turned slightly to see who had spoken, and nodded when he saw 
the Elvish Lord. 

“Arwen and Aragorn are to be wed soon?”

His heart filled with sadness and he nodded. “Yes. Soon.”
“I’m sorry.”

“So am I.”

“For me?” 

Frodo turned to him in confusion. Elrond shrugged and moved to a 
nearby chair by the fireplace. He opened his arms and Frodo hesitated 
and then slowly moved to his side. Elrond’s hand slid gently into 
Frodo’s. For a moment he stared at the still bandaged finger and then 
pulled it to his lips and kissed it. 
Frodo’s eyes widened and then stared at the elvish lord in confusion.

“I shall soon leave for Valinor. My daughter and my sons will remain. 
My vision has so informed me.”

Frodo lowered his eyes. He now knew the loss of one child, but to 
lose three seemed unthinkable. “My heart feels your sorrow, my Lord.”

“Thank you. But I have not come to speak of my daughter. I came to 
see you. You, young Frodo Baggins of the Shire. I have heard much of 
your pain and loss.”

Not sure if he meant the baby, Frodo shrugged. “I did what I had to 
do.”

“I meant not just your journey with the Ring, Frodo. I grieve deeply 
for you. I have wanted to speak to you since you came to Rivendell 
but I never found the time to do so. Now I think it is time. Frodo, 
do you know that when I first saw you, I saw such light pouring from 
your body that I was simply astounded by it. It was an aura the likes 
of which I had not seen since the first age of Man. I spoke to Bilbo 
and he confirmed what I had already believed to be so.”

Frodo continued to gaze at Elrond in confusion.

“Bilbo told me the story of the Hobbit with the last name of Took who 
married a fairy wife. But he said that this was not fact, and it is 
often recounted as being an absurd legend among your kind.”

Frodo nodded, listening. “I have heard the tales.”

“Yes, well it is said that fairies don’t exist. That they never 
existed. Well, I must inform you that such a race did exist. In the 
First Age, I met such a being. Actually, by my people they are called 
Druids. Similar to Elves but smaller. In fact they are more your 
size. They all had dark brown hair and blue eyes. They were gentle 
beings and preferred to stay near rivers and wetlands that were 
forested. Like us, they loved to sing and dance. They loved to laugh. 
But they were easily heartbroken, very fragile in spirit. They were 
also of one gender.” He paused and waited, then added, “Female.”

Frodo looked at Elrond oddly.

“When it was time to add to their race, they would often seek 
partners outside their species. They would fall in love, and take 
this mate with them deep into the forest. This individual would not 
be seen or heard from again for many years, if ever.”

“How did they? How did they have babies?”

Elrond smiled and shrugged. “It was said that when the moon was red 
and full, they would mate within the sight of a river and that the 
male would do the birthing. Nine months later, a child would be born 
and its looks would decide its fate. As it happened as the years 
passed, the faeries found that if they mated with a human, the child 
was human, or if they mated with an elf, the child would be elven. It 
was said that out of twenty births, only one or two would be born a 
druid.”

Frodo blushed slightly. “You believe that this is true? I mean, that 
a hobbit mated with a fairy?”

“Yes, but you see, neither I nor your Uncle can be certain where and 
when this might have happened. Your race has not kept a record of its 
beginnings.”

“But if this is true...where are they?”

“Well, one cannot be completely certain but it was in the First Age 
that I met one and she stayed in Imladris until she passed into 
death. Although they lived to be quite old -- more than five hundred 
years -- they were still mortal. The Druid that I met was named 
Florin -- a beautiful lady of unsurpassed grace and charm who had 
already lived into her three hundredth year. She told me that her 
kind was dying out, that many had been killed by the Orcs of Sauron 
and that because of the loss, they could no longer breed. After her 
death, I never saw another like her. She held such light and purity 
that I must say I was quite in love with her. Her passing was most 
painful for me. But it was her light that I saw within you when you 
came to Rivendell.”

Frodo had to sit down and Elrond pulled Frodo into his arms and 
allowed the Hobbit a few moments to take this all in.

“So their race is gone now from Middle-Earth.”

“Gone -- but not completely forgotten. They still exist even within 
the races with which they mated. Their offspring may have taken the 
form of human, elf or hobbit, but they still have Druid blood in 
their veins. Your veins.”

Frodo nodded thoughtfully. “Is that how...I got pregnant?”

“Perhaps, Sauron needed a key and used it. Yes.”

“Was it evil?” Frodo asked softly. “Surely it was partly mine? It 
couldn’t have been completely evil...could it?”

Elrond pulled Frodo closer in his arms and sighed sadly. “The child 
was from your body but its heart belonged to Sauron. It would only 
have destroyed you.”

Frodo felt the tears fall from his eyes and he shook his head 
bitterly. “I wish I never survived Mount Doom. I wished I had 
perished. I have lost everything. Everything!”

Elrond turned Frodo’s face towards his and he spoke carefully and 
slowly so that Frodo would hear every word he spoke. “Do not say such 
a thing. Your death would have grieved all. You have not lost 
everything, Frodo. Aragorn and Sam love you. Bilbo and Gandalf love 
you. Your cousins love you. You are loved, Frodo.”

Frodo only looked down and shook his head. “I am empty inside. So 
empty. Nothing will ever fill it. I shall die like this.”

Elrond shook his head. “No. For you now have a choice.”

“What choice?”

“To come with me. With Gandalf. The way has been opened. Bilbo has 
been gifted the grace to come to Valinor and he has accepted. I now 
ask you to come. There you will find peace, and love and once again, 
joy and happiness.”

Frodo looked into Elrond’s eyes, wanting to believe what he was 
saying. 

“But I would have to leave here? I would never see the Shire again? 
Sam? Aragorn?”

“Aragorn is now tied to Middle-Earth. No, he will never leave it. Nor 
will Arwen. But Samwise….” 

Elrond closed his eyes and contemplated for a moment, then opened 
them again and smiled. “The way is opened for him as well. For the 
last of the Ringbearers. Will you come Frodo?”

Frodo did not look into his eyes. He slowly pulled away and returned 
to the window. He did not belong here, not in Aragorn’s world. Not 
with men, and Frodo knew that even though Aragorn and Arwen would 
hide it, he would always be a proverbial fifth wheel on the wagon. 

Sam also was lost to him. Soon they would return to the Shire and 
Rosie would enter Sam’s heart. He, Frodo, could stay. Sam would make 
time for him. He would love him and Rosie would accept sharing Sam 
with him. But again, he would be a fifth wheel. The mirror had been 
truthful in revealing the future happiness of the ones he loved but 
that he would not be a part of it. The questions now remained, Where 
did he belong? Where would he be loved? 

As he stood there, he felt a breeze enter the window and with it, the 
sent of salt and the sea. He swallowed and allowed the tears to fall. 

“I will come.” 

*** 

Aragorn and Arwen met Elrond as he came out of the room. He saw tears 
in Arwen’s eyes and Aragorn’s face was filled with anger.

“Why did you do that? Why are you taking him away from us? From me?”

Elrond raised an eyebrow, spotting Gandalf standing not too far away, 
deeply aggrieved. Elrond turned to Aragorn and spoke his mind.

“You did not truly believe that you would have them all? That you 
could really share? Arwen will have only one man, and if that is to 
be you, then you will only have her!”

“Ada.” Arwen reached for her father, but Elrond moved away.

“You have forsaken your immortality,” he said to his daughter. “It is 
done and cannot be undone. So it will come to pass. You will have 
what length of time is given to you. You will both be happy and have 
many children. But you will both come to death. I have warned you of 
this. But you would not listen to me. I have to let you go, but you, 
Aragorn, will not stand in Frodo’s way. He is dying.”

Aragorn didn’t turn away.

“The Ring and Sauron have done their work. If Frodo stays here, he 
will live perhaps a year, maybe two. And those two years will be 
filled with pain and agony. Is that what you would wish for him? Did 
you not say you loved him?”

“You are doing this because you hate me and want to hurt me for 
taking Arwen from you.”

“Partly, perhaps. But this is the truth. If Frodo is to live, he must 
come to Valinor.” 

Elrond turned to leave, then paused and faced Aragorn with a bitter 
half smile on his lips. “Don’t burden yourself with guilt and worry. 
I will take it upon myself as his personal caretaker. He will never 
be alone.” 

Elrond then slowly walked away, leaving all three in stunned silence. 

*** 

“Elrond!” Gandalf found the elvish lord sitting in the courtyard 
beside a white tree. It was blossomed and alive.

“Speak your mind old friend.”

“I will indeed. I will not allow you to use your anger at Aragorn and 
the loss of Arwen to hurt Frodo.”

Elrond raised an eyebrow at the Wizard and shook his head. “I have no 
intention of hurting Frodo.”

“Really?”

“Yes. I have grown fond of Frodo and care for him deeply. I did not 
jest when I said that I would care for him. I will take care of 
Frodo.”

“Frodo still loves Aragorn and Sam.”

“I know this.”

“You have a hidden agenda. I can feel it. Tell me the truth?”

Elrond only sighed and looked away. “The truth is Gandalf. I am 
tired. I am old and I yearn for peace of mind. Like Frodo, I have 
lost everything. My brother, my parents. My wife. My sons and 
daughter.”

“Celebrian will be waiting for you in Valinor.”

“She will be there but not waiting for me. It has been too long, 
Gandalf. She has found another.”

Gandalf now sat down on the stones, his mind heavily burdened once 
more.

“I know you have cause to disbelieve me when I say I have grown to 
love Frodo, but I swear to you, by Manwe, I love Frodo. I will love 
him and care for him all the days of his life.”

“How ever short they will be.”

“With Arwen’s grace passing to Frodo, when he enters Valinor, he will 
live for many, centuries to come. That is the gift Manwe has bestowed 
upon Frodo.”

Gandalf finally understood. “What of Sam? Frodo will not wish to 
leave him.”

“He has already agreed to do so.”

Gandalf swore softly under his breath.

“Sam will come, but not for many decades. He will remain here in 
Middle-earth, in the Shire he loves. He will have many children and 
many happy years to come. In the end, he will hear the call and he 
will come.”

“And you will stand aside so that they may be together?”

Elrond shrugged. “If Frodo chooses to return to him, I will not stand 
in his way.”

“But you will spend those years they are apart, making Frodo forget?”

“As long as I make Frodo happy, what difference does it make?”

Gandalf rose to his feet and stared Elrond down. “The difference is 
Frodo’s happiness.”

“And do you know where that lies, Wizard? Do you? For certain?”

Seeing Gandalf’s doubt, Elrond smiled and walked away. A few hours 
later, just before Arwen’s wedding to Aragorn, the Lord of Rivendell 
mounted his horse and headed back to Rivendell. 

*** 

Above, staring out a window, a Hobbit stood. His eyes focused far 
away and his thoughts turned to the sea.

10/10 

She sat quietly beside the water, staring deep into the mirror. She 
had seen all that had taken place a few days ago in Minas Tirith and 
had vowed not to leave Lothlorien until it was time for her to go 
into the West. As it stood, her heart would be greatly grieved when 
she made her last voyage for home. But she had to do something and 
she would do all she could to help those she had grown to love in 
this past decade.

Taking a seat by the water, she closed her eyes, ignoring the silent 
presence of her husband as he stood quietly behind her, his face 
unreadable.
 
*** 

He wept silently in his bed. The pain engulfed him and Frodo feared 
it would consume him completely. He wanted the Ring. He wanted it 
back. Even after its destruction, he still desired it. All was gone -
- the Ring, his baby, Sam, Aragorn. 
Rising slowly from his bed, he glanced at the fireplace to see 
Gandalf still at his vigil, but his eyes were closed. At last, sleep 
had taken him. Getting softly to his feet, Frodo contemplated the 
best solution. 

He moved towards the window.

The wind whipped around him and the stars were covered by rain 
clouds. It would be clear by morning, for Aragorn and Arwen’s 
wedding. Frodo was happy for them, as he would be happy for Sam when 
he returned to the Shire. He would claim his Rosie and everyone would 
be happier. Happier with him out of the picture. This was for the 
best.

He stared down at the ground, many feet below. It would be quick. 

“Frodo.”

Frodo closed his eyes at the sound of the female voice. He shook his 
head in sorrow, and tried to reason it all in his mind, but she would 
not go away and allow this to come to pass.
“Frodo. Do you remember what I said to you in Lothlorien? Did you not 
hear my words before you looked into the mirror?”

Frodo only let the tears fall as he tried to shut her out. But she 
would not be shut out.

“The mirror shows many things. Things that were, things that are, and 
some things...that have not yet come to pass.”

Frodo lowered his head in defeat. What else could he do.

“Frodo, what you saw in the mirror were all things that could be. The 
future has many layers and choices for each individual. What you saw 
was a possible future, not what must come to pass. Hear me. I saw 
what you saw. Yes, Frodo, I was there when you chanced to return and 
tried to glimpse into your future, and saw Aragorn with Arwen and Sam 
with Rose Cotton. This was not what must be, but a future that is 
only one of many that can be chosen. It does not have to be this way. 
You do not have to make any further sacrifices.”

“I don’t understand.”

“You feel that if you leave them all, they will be happier without 
you. This is not so.”

But Frodo only sighed sadly. “I must leave Middle-Earth. I cannot 
stay. I cannot.”

“Yes, you cannot stay here in Middle-Earth and you will go. But not 
yet. You still have one more memory to make for one Ranger. Trust me, 
Frodo. This is not the End. Not even in death. Trust me.”

Frodo looked up and saw the hand reaching out to him. A tear fell 
from his eyes as he gazed at the beautiful Lady. She smiled and took 
his bandaged hand into her own.
 
“Little Star without hope, I give thee strength to endure.” 

*** 

He sat quietly by the fire. He could not sleep and found that even 
awake, the grief was almost just as unbearable. Always, he would go 
back to the past and wonder what he had failed to do that could have 
prevented his master’s suffering. Where had he gone wrong? 

“Samwise Gamgee, did my gift serve you well?”

Sam blinked and then rubbed his eyes. Turning, he saw a vision of 
beauty standing behind him. It could not be. He rose and at once, 
bowed before her. 

“My Lady!”

She smiled and shook her head. “So valiant, you are, the smallest and 
the one always overlooked. But I knew from the moment I saw you, the 
champion you were to be. The hero you were born to be.”

“Oh, no me Lady.” The tears welled in his eyes. “Not me. I failed.”

“Failed? You call it failure when you never strayed from your 
Master’s side? Do you call it failure when you fought the greatest of 
Morgoth’s servants, Shelob, and won? Failure when you mounted an 
impossible rescue to save your Master from Sauron’s orcs? Failure 
when given the chance, you could have claimed the Ring for your own 
and didn’t? Failure when you still refused to give up hope, when 
there was no hope? Failure? No, Samwise Gamgee. You are the mightiest 
hero of them all.”

Sam lost his voice and before the compliments, he felt his cheeks 
redden in embarrassment. 

“You did all that you could and more. Your tale should not be 
forgotten and it won’t be. Until the ending of the world, you will 
always be known and loved as Gamgee the Brave.”

Sam swallowed and lowered his eyes. “But I failed, my Lady. At the 
very end, I gave up. In that fire, I did the worst thing possible. I 
thought of someone else when I should have been thinkin’ only of my 
Master and the love I’ve always had for him.”

“Sam, hear me. In the circles of Middle-Earth, it is natural to be 
frightened when you find yourself in an unnatural world, one filled 
with evil, pain and cruelty. You were raised to think only a certain 
way. To alter it is unthinkable. Your thoughts strayed not because 
you stopped loving Frodo, but because you wished to remember all that 
you were fighting for. Your Rose Cotton was an image you placed in 
your mind. Perfection, the one thing that was natural, pure and safe, 
all of which was no longer. In desperation, you sought what all 
creatures seek -- something secure and normal. As a hobbit, you have 
always remained true to yourself. You love the Shire, you care for 
Rose, but your heart belongs to Frodo. It always has.”

“You mean, I mistook my thoughts of Rosie at...Mount Doom. That I 
wanted to marry her only because...I was afraid?”

“Weren’t you?”

“I always dreamed of a garden, family. Children.”

“And with Rose Cotton, that is possible. Unless you choose Frodo.”

Sam lowered his head and wiped his tear-filled eyes. “Beggin’ your 
pardon, my Lady, but I don’t understand. Please speak plainly to me.”

“So I shall. The World thinks that a family is only made between a 
man and a woman or in this case, a female hobbit with a male hobbit. 
I say to you, Samwise Gamgee, a family is made with love. No matter 
the race or the gender. You have a road to choose. It now stands 
before you. You have much more to sacrifice, perhaps more then you 
are willing to give. I promise you, Samwise Gamgee, that sacrifice 
will be returned to you ten fold.”

“But what are my choices?”

“You may turn back as you did once, when Frodo told you to go home. 
You may return to your Shire, marry your Rose and follow the path 
that is written out for you. OR you may choose another road. A road 
to remain at the side of your master, friend, lover.”

“That would mean I would have to leave. Never see the Shire again.”

“That will be the sacrifice. Make no decision yet. There is still 
time. But remember this -- the future is never certain, its road 
never clearly written and goodbye is never forever.” 

*** 

Before he could knock, the door opened and Frodo stared up into the 
face of the lovely Arwen. She smiled down at him and moving aside, 
waved him in. As Frodo entered, she walked out of the room and closed 
the door behind her.
Alone in the room, Frodo swallowed, not sure what he was supposed to 
do. He stood by the bed, staring at Aragorn, dumbstruck. 

“Frodo.”

“In a few days, I will leave with my cousins and Sam and head back to 
the Shire. Home. I wish to spend my last few days remaining on 
Middle-Earth in Bag End.”

Frodo lowered his eyes and slowly sat down upon the bed. Feeling 
Aragorn’s grief, the Hobbit moved slowly towards him. He placed both 
hands on the soon to be King’s and looked up into his eyes, waiting 
until they met his.

“You shall always be Strider to me. My hero. My protector.”

“I wasn’t there when you needed me most, my little love.”

“You were. Even in my darkest moments, you were there, and you always 
will be. You are in my heart. This parting will bring us both great 
sorrow in the years to come, but I have been told...that goodbye is 
never forever. We shall see each other again and when we do, we shall 
never be parted. We shall be like the stars in the heavens, forever 
shining.”

“I am sorry, Frodo.”

“Don’t be. This is how it must be. I love you.” His hands moved up 
and caressed his face, gently touching the beard upon his face. 
“Still my scruffy Ranger?”

“Always, for you, Frodo. Always.”

“Then give me something to hold me, to remember and to cling to in 
the years to come.”

Aragorn stared at Frodo, uncertain. “Frodo, it’s too soon. You 
haven’t fully healed.”

“And I never will, not until I go into the West. But you can perform 
another sort of healing. Twice we have...made love. But it was not as 
you wished it to be. Let it be so now. Give to me what you have so 
desired. Touch me, hold me, love me. Please.” 

Aragorn’s hands reached out and gently pulled the hobbit into his 
arms. His lips pressed ever so gently against his. Frodo sighed 
blissfully, as the scents of pine cones and forest once again filled 
his senses. 

Frodo’s arms reached out and clung tightly onto Aragorn’s robe, 
yielding to the one that he had craved, needing to remember every 
touch so that it could carry him on the ship that would lead him far 
away from all he had come to know. 

As Frodo felt his head touch the pillows, he watched the ranger 
remove his robe and then helped Frodo to remove his own nightshirt. 
In those deliberate movements, Frodo knew that what was to come would 
be a slow adoration and he felt his body tingle in anticipation.

Aragorn’s lips kissed and nuzzled each area of his skin. Frodo felt a 
swarm of tongues glisten down over his neck and shoulders, his arms 
and the palms of his hands. The chest was given the most attention, 
the tongue swirling in circles around his nipples and Frodo sighed 
ecstatically, trying to return the affection with his hands sliding 
gently over Aragorn’s arms and neck. Frodo thrust up against the hard 
body and was exhilarated when he felt the hard member pressing 
against his thigh. 

It seemed to take forever for Aragorn to finally address Frodo’s 
thighs, parting them ever so carefully, and pressing tender kisses on 
his skin. 

Frodo glowed in the candle light, his eyes always open, unwilling to 
close and lose one memory of what was happening to him. He needed to 
remember everything about Aragorn, everything. His hair, his eyes, 
the feel of his skin. The taste of his tongue in his mouth. 

He had waited so long. This was what he had always wanted to do with 
Frodo. To make love to him slowly and without rush, to show him all 
the delights and the passion that a man could bestow on one he loved. 
But there was a sadness in Aragorn’s movements as he realized that 
this would perhaps be the last time he would ever touch Frodo. So as 
Frodo locked eyes on him, trying to mesmerize all of his ranger, 
Aragorn did the same in return, locking in each gasp and each touch 
in his mind. 

Minutes passed as they both continued the slow assault of their 
bodies, until finally each could hold out not a moment longer. 
Aragorn found the oil on the table and warming it with his hands, he 
made himself ready. He then proceeded to do the same with Frodo, 
increasing the teasing circles around his opening, but not pushing 
in.

Frodo gasped, narrowing his eyes warningly. “Aragorn, please. Stop 
teasing me.”

But Aragorn was not in the mood to submit to old demands. “Did you 
not say that this was for me? Then let me set the pace, my love.”

Frodo squirmed helplessly as Aragorn removed his fingers and then 
assaulted that area with his lips and tongue and Frodo whimpered as 
his own member felt as if it would explode. He could feel again, feel 
everything around him, so attuned and so very frustrated. Would he 
never reach the high peak?

“Aragorn.”

“Patience, Frodo.”

But Frodo only bent his legs back and moaned pleadingly.
Aragorn finally caved in, and plunged inside with one firm thrust. 

Frodo cried out with pleasure, wrapping his arms and legs around the 
Ranger. They remained unmoving, becoming acclimated to each other 
after being parted for so long. Frodo had forgotten how big the 
Ranger was, but this time, there was only a small bit of pain and it 
was a pleasant feeling. 

Frodo tried to initiate the first thrust, but Aragorn put his hands 
around Frodo’s chest and held him in place. Questioningly, the Hobbit 
looked up to see the smile on the Ranger’s face. “I see the Ranger 
has decided to torment his fellow traveler. You shall show no mercy?”

Aragorn laughed and shook his head, putting his fingers firmly around 
Frodo‘s member and began to stoke it gently and ever so slowly. 

Forced to keep still, Frodo thought he was going to burst. The 
tightness inside his body and the gentle hand stroking his cock was 
making him lose his mind. 
He was going to die like this. Yes, that was what was going to 
happen. What a wonderful way to go. Frodo closed his eyes and sighed, 
and then just when he thought for sure he would never get through 
this night alive, Aragorn finally made his first gentle thrust. 
Frodo’s eyes opened, and then his mouth. When Aragorn thrust a second 
time, Frodo cried out softly, “More, oh please.”

But Aragorn had his own pace and continued to move slowly, refusing 
to allow either of them to climax so soon. 

Helpless and yet enjoying the new sensations perpetrated on his body, 
Frodo felt as if he were indeed flying again. Sparks flashed in his 
eyes, and a feeling of joy and happiness deepened in his chest. 

“Frodo!”

At long last, Aragorn threw his head back and his pace seemed to 
quicken, its rhythm constant, and Frodo reached his uninjured hand up 
and touched Aragorn’s chest. This is what he would remember, this is 
what he would hold onto for the rest of his life. 

Seconds later, Frodo felt himself pulled even higher as Aragorn 
thrust harder. He was beyond endurance and now sought completion, and 
Frodo contentedly followed him. 

They climbed higher and higher until finally in unison, they came, 
crying out into the night, sealing their love for all eternity.

“Aragorn?”

“Yes, Frodo.”

“I’m sorry for hurting you. About the baby.”

“Its all right, Frodo.”

“No, it isn’t. Because...I wanted it to be yours. Do you think Sam 
will ever forgive me? For all the pain I caused him? For what I have 
done?”

“Of course. He loves you. He will always stand by you.”

“I let him go.”

“The questions is, will he let you go?” 

*** 

The clouds slowly pushed away. In the morning, the sky would be clear 
for a sunny new day filled with promise. As the clouds drifted apart, 
they revealed a full moon, and it was red. 

*** 

She smiled and opened her eyes. She looked up at her husband and 
waited to see what his response would be. He took her hand and bent 
down, bestowing a kiss upon her lips. Galadriel smiled. “A red moon, 
Celeborn. It was not meant for a few more weeks. Thank you.”

He only smiled and pulled her up and slowly they headed to their 
chambers to spend their last few days dwelling together. 

*** 

Frodo watched the wedding of Aragorn and Arwen and smiled as they 
kissed each other. All were there -- Gandalf, Eomer, Eowyn, Faramir, 
the Fellowship. Everyone. They were dressed in their best finery and 
all were laughing and happy, radiant at the prospect of the bright 
future of peace that was to come.
 
Frodo paused for a moment, spotting his cousins nearby, looking 
impatient to get past the ceremony and attack the waiting feast in 
the main hall. 

Standing to his right was Sam. They had not spoken and Frodo felt 
uneasy, finding it hard to meet Sam’s eyes. He wished more then 
anything to take back his words of a few days before. He wanted more 
than anything to bridge the gap between them. But he was not certain 
how to go about it, or if he ever could. He had hurt Sam, hurt his 
Sam. Would he ever forgive him?

Sam’s eyes stayed focused on the loving couple, then slowly, he 
turned to Frodo. Seeing the painfilled eyes, Sam reached out and 
pressed his hand into Frodo’s. Then Sam gave Frodo a small smile. He 
had made his choice.

Sure that this meant Sam had forgiven him, Frodo leaned gently 
against Sam’s shoulder and then closed his eyes, wondering how it 
would all end. 

*** 

They were ready to make their way back home. Frodo stood quietly in 
front of the new King and Queen, his eyes once again filled with 
tears. But Arwen and Aragorn together bent down and took him into a 
loving embrace. They wept, but before they let go, Arwen spoke softly 
in elvish to Frodo. “We shall all be together again. Someday.”

Nodding, Frodo joined Gandalf and the others and slowly turned his 
pony away from Minas Tirith. Unable to look back, he took his 
position at Sam’s side, ready to go home.
 
*** 

Frodo stopped briefly in Rivendell. Avoiding Elrond, Frodo spent his 
last few days speaking quietly to Bilbo. The elderly hobbit had grown 
old, but his mind was as sharp as ever and when Frodo finished his 
tale, Bilbo took Frodo into his arms and kissed away his tears. 

*** 

Home. Frodo had returned to the Shire. However, instead of joining 
his cousins and Sam in greeting family and friends and telling their 
tales, Frodo went to Bag End alone. In the dark he sat, contemplating 
the future. He waited many days to hear word of Samwise’s marriage to 
Rose Cotton. 

But no word came, and every morning, to Frodo’s surprise, he awoke to 
see his gardener back in his Master’s garden, tending to its well 
being. So too, he wondered if Samwise would ever tend the Master of 
this garden ever again, but did not dare to hope. 

*** 

He was just managing to get down a cup of tea after suffering some 
nausea that morning when the letter came. Frodo glanced out his 
window and contemplated how much more he must suffer. He had lost 
Aragorn and now he was going to lose Sam too. Allowing the tears to 
slip down his cheeks, he closed the letter and rubbed his stomach, 
reminding himself that Sam was already lost to him. And he had only 
himself to blame. 

*** 

His cousins stared at Frodo. Their tears and sadness were already 
overwhelming at the thought of Gandalf leaving Middle-Earth forever, 
but now to see Gandalf turn and call Frodo, they were almost lost in 
grief. Samwise however, remained still. There were tears in his eyes, 
but he said nothing.

Frodo kissed each of his cousins farewell. Then, he turned to Sam and 
gave him one last kiss and gifted the Red Book into his hands.

“You cannot always be torn in two, Sam, You will have to be one and 
whole for many years. You have so much to enjoy...And to be, and to 
do...Your part in this story will go on.”

Turning away, Frodo made for the boat, his heart filled with grief 
and his stomach filled with an ache he could not name. 

Upon the boat stood Gandalf and beside him waited Elrond. He was 
smiling and beckoning Frodo to come, his hands open, waiting to 
embrace him and carry him for the years to come. Frodo glanced back, 
and forced a smile to his lips. The three he loved most stood staring 
at him. 

He turned away and instead of going to Elrond’s embrace, he moved to 
the other side of the boat. He lowered himself against the edge of 
the deck and stared out at the sea. He could not look back. He just 
couldn’t. The smile faded and the tears consumed him. 

*** 

“Here, take this. Write in it as you see fit.” Samwise handed Merry 
the Red Book and without another thought, he ran to the docks. Just 
as the boat began to depart, Samwise Gamgee leaped into fate. 

*** 

Gandalf held Elrond back. The Elvish Lord was not too pleased, but 
seeing that there was nothing he could do, he turned away. With a 
scowl, he went to the stairs and disappeared below deck. Gandalf 
however remained and watched as the small figure came up behind his 
Master and as Frodo’s sobs were heard, a gentle hand was placed on 
his shoulder.

Gasping, Frodo turned and met familiar eyes that were also filled 
with tears. 

“Sam? No, Sam.”

“Yes. Don’t you leave him, Samwise Gamgee. I made my promise and I 
mean to stick with it.”

“The Shire, you love the Shire. Its your home! What about Rose?”

“Home is where your heart is. My heart is with you. Always has been. 
Just took me a little longer to realize it. Beggin your pardon, Sir. 
I love the Shire and Rose, but I love you most of all.”

“Oh Sam!” Frodo fell into his arms and wept, and Sam held on tight, 
smiling. 
“But the Mirror...it said...it showed me….”

“That should tell you something. Mystic powers and magic balls, even 
elvish mirrors, don’t know everything. I am your Sam, and your Sam I 
will remain. Even at the end of all things.”

Weeping uncontrollably, Frodo sat down with Sam still tightly held in 
his arms. He looked up at Gandalf and saw the Wizard smiling down 
upon them. Beside him was the Lady Galadriel. She winked at him 
before taking Gandalf’s hand and led him away. 
*** 

Frodo and Sam watched Middle-Earth disappear and when it was gone, 
they turned to the Sea and watched the sun set in the sky. Holding 
hands tightly, Frodo finally spoke.

“Sam.”

“Yes, Mr. Frodo.”

“I have a confession to make.”

“Yes, Sir?”

“I spent...the last night in Minas Tirith with Aragorn.”

“Good, he needed that.”

Frodo blushed and then shrugged his shoulders. “Sam....”

“Yes, Mr. Frodo?”

“I think I’m pregnant.”

Frodo waited for a harsh response but instead, all he received was a 
chuckle. 

“Sam?”

“Well, Mr. Frodo I guess I am going to have to watch over more then 
just you now, won’t I?”

Frodo grinned and kissed him. “And I will watch over you, Samwise 
Gamgee.” 

And so it came to pass, that Bilbo Baggins, his nephew Frodo Baggins, 
and his gardener Samwise Gamgee went over the sea with Gandalf the 
White and the elvish Lord, Elrond, and the Lady of Light, Galadriel. 

The end? 
................... 

Epilogue 

When the ship arrived, Frodo was amazed to see the crowds awaiting 
them. Frightened, Frodo clung to Samwise’s hand, his other hand in 
Gandalf’s. 

Uncertain, he watched as Elrond finally came out of the ship and for 
the first time since they left Middle-Earth, he stood beside him. He 
seemed tired and filled with sadness. A part of Frodo longed to reach 
out to him. He had suffered so much. Surely he had someone who would 
be waiting for him.

It wasn’t until Lady Galadriel and many of the elves had left the 
ship that Elrond finally looked out into the crowd with a deep sigh. 
There was apprehension in his eyes and a sadness that went beyond the 
ages. But that sadness changed to surprise when he spotted a figure 
slowly making her way up the gangplank. It was a Lady of unsurpassed 
beauty and Frodo felt his heart thump a little bit harder to see that 
she looked alot like Galadriel.

Looking to Gandalf, he saw the Wizard wink at him. “Celebrian.” 

Unsure what to do, Elrond put his hands together and tried to look 
away. But when a hand gently touched his cheek, he looked up and 
gazed into the eyes of his beloved wife, to see a smile upon her 
lips.

“Welcome, my love. Welcome home. I have waited for you for so long. 
Now we shall never part again.” 

“I thought.”

“You were mistaken.  Come!”

They had much to say, but no more words now. A smile finally came to 
his lips and tears of joy to his eyes. She took his arm into her own, 
and in step, took him down the gangplank and they disappeared into 
the crowds.

Frodo watched them depart and smiled. 

*** 

It was a few days later that Galadriel herself conducted a special 
and private ceremony on the sandy beach. There were only four who 
witnessed the wedding: Gandalf, Elrond, his wife Celebrian, and a 
very old hobbit who found it quite difficult to stay awake through 
the ceremony, but was able to gobble down two human-sized plates full 
of food at the celebrating feast.

It was that day, on the island of Tol Eressea that Frodo Baggins and 
Samwise Gamgee were wed, bound to each other for the rest of 
eternity. It was often remarked on that day that high in the sky, the 
great Eagles passed, and the sun shone ever more brightly as Manwe 
and Elbereth blessed the union of the two hobbits. 
*** 

For a time, Frodo and Sam lived in the home of Elrond and Celebrian, 
but eventually, Frodo and Sam decided to build a small smial just a 
hill away from their dwelling. With the help of the elves, the home 
was built and they were settled just in time for Frodo to be graced 
with the birth of his first son. Gandalf and Elrond had arrived and a 
great ancient elven healer had come. With little loss of blood, he 
was able to cut Frodo’s abdomen and present the baby to the proud 
parents. 

In tears, Frodo looked to Sam for confirmation and he got it. “We 
will name him Elessar.”

In agreement, the grey eyed baby opened his eyes and seemed to gurgle 
in a pleased tone. 

“Elessar Aragorn Baggins.” 

“Welcome, Elessar. Welcome home!” And Frodo pressed a contented kiss 
upon his son’s brow. Aragorn’s son.  

Meanwhile, Sam, who sat delighted by the bed, watched in mild 
surprise as Gandalf headed out the door but paused to mutter 
something into his ear. 

Looking up, Frodo was slightly amused to see Sam wearing a bewildered 
and silly grin on his face. After questioning him for some time, all 
Frodo managed to get was the word for a number, which Sam repeated 
every few minutes. 

“Ten. Ten, sigh, ten....oh my, ten....” 

*** 

And still this was not the end. For with this birth, Frodo found to 
his surprise that more were to follow. Two years later, on a cool, 
sunny morning, Frodo gave birth to triplets -- the first children of 
Samwise Gamgee -- two boys, who they called Merry and Pippin, and 
their daughter, whom they named Florin.

It was during this time that Celebrian announced her own pregnancy 
and a little over a year later, she gave birth to twin daughters. The 
sadness that still seemed to plague Elrond ended when he held Eruanna 
(“grace”), and Maranwe (“destiny”) in his arms. 

In five years time, just when Frodo and Sam seemed to be content with 
their family, to no one’s surprise except the two married Hobbits, 
Frodo was pregnant once again and gave birth to twin boys. Bilbo, who 
was in failing health, was graced with seeing their births before 
passing peacefully in his sleep. He was delighted when the two boys 
were named Bilbo and Hamfast. 

The next child almost wasn’t. One particularly cold night three years 
later, Sam wanted to snuggle with Frodo who was determined not to, 
for he was bound to avoid any red full moons. Sam had promised there 
wasn’t one, and so Frodo had allowed the snuggling which of course 
became so much more. But as the grey clouds parted, Frodo was most 
vexed to see a full red moon behind it. 

When Frodo announced that he was pregnant, Sam sat down and laughed, 
unable to help himself. Frodo, however, was not amused, but he 
welcomed Primula into his arms, and his annoyance faded to see her 
lovely blue eyes and dark brown curls.

She was barely out of diapers, when Sam used his magic and in the 
sunlight, coaxed Frodo into a boat and made love to him in the cool 
waters of the ocean. 

Frodo thought for sure he was safe when the red full moon appeared 
that night. However, Galadriel giggled and pointed out that although 
the red moon may not be seen in daylight, it is still there in the 
sky.

“Samwise Gamgee!”

“<Chuckle> What?” called an innocent voice, that was not so innocent.

And so, nine months later, Frodo was again cut open and, after being 
bedridden for the last six months of the pregnancy, twins were born -
- a boy and girl. Samwise named them Belladonna and Bungo. 

Sad that Bilbo was no longer present to see the birth and the raising 
of Frodo and Sam’s children, Frodo barely had time to dwell on it, as 
his children kept him busy. Between diaper changes, falls and pulling 
biscuits out of the oven, he had his hands full most of the time. 

Though Frodo loved all his children, it was his first born son, 
Elessar, who obviously was his most favorite. Although Elessar looked 
hobbit-like with his pointed ears and big feet, he was taller than 
the rest of the children. Frodo enjoyed fussing over him and often 
commented on his solemness that he had obviously gotten from his 
other father. 

The years passed slowly, and Frodo found that his wounds of Middle-
Earth faded. The pain of one memory never left him, though. Often, he 
thought of him, far away, in another land, caring for a kingdom and 
his wife and his own children. Frodo wondered sadly if Aragorn ever 
thought of him. He wished there was a way the King could know that he 
had given birth to their son, a son he would never see. And if he did 
know, would he be proud of Elessar? Would he? 

More then fifty years had passed and Frodo was very distressed the 
day his four oldest children came to him to tell him they’d decided 
to have an adventure. A journey to Middle-Earth. 

Frodo refused to permit such a thing. But even knowing they would not 
be allowed to return, his children would not be deterred. Elessar 
wanted a chance to meet his other father, and Merry, Pippin and 
Florin wanted to meet other hobbits like themselves and tread the 
paths their fathers took so long ago. 

“Please, Ada Frodo, I want to meet my other father.” begged Elessar.

Grief stricken, knowing he could not stop them, Frodo gathered the 
other children and returned to their hobbit hole. Sam followed 
shortly after, but not before he gave them a stern lecture about 
minding their places and to always be there for each other. 

In their home, Sam put his arms around Frodo, who wept helplessly. 
Finally, Sam found the words to tell his love that the travelers 
would be all right. They had each other and soon Aragorn would meet 
his son and would take care of them. Whatever future lay before them, 
it would not be an unhappy one. Frodo wished he could believe that, 
but as the months followed their departure, he fell into a deep 
melancholy. 

One day, finding Frodo staring out at the Sea, Galadriel came to his 
side. After a long silence, Galadriel beckoned Frodo to follow her. 
She led him quietly up a hidden ravine and below, in a small 
waterfall, she pointed to a nearby spring falling endlessly into a 
vase. Frodo did as she bid and looked into the water. As she spoke, 
images formed in the water, and Frodo’s fears and sadness started to 
drift away.

“This is a mirror, not of the future or the past. It shows only the 
present. The present of Middle-Earth. Behold. Your children made it 
safely back to Middle-Earth. They arrived in the Shire. Merry and 
Pippin met their namesakes, who took them in, and they are now 
getting set to marry the daughters of Rose Cotton. She married Folco, 
and, since your departure with Sam, has given birth to thirteen 
children. She is, as you can see, very happy...and loved. Florin and 
Elessar went to Rivendell for a time and stayed in the presence of 
Celeborn and Elrond’s sons. But then they finally made their way to 
Minas Tirith.”

She spoke no further and Frodo wept with joy when he saw the image of 
a much older Aragorn and his own children from Arwen. They were 
greeting the arrivals from Tol Eressea with joy and much celebration 
and welcoming them into their home. Frodo held his hand to his chest 
as he watched Aragorn embrace their son, Elessar.

“They will dwell there for many years to come.” Galadriel closed her 
eyes and smiled as the visions of the future came to her by Manwe. 
“Eventually, Florin will take a husband and she will have four 
beautiful sons. Elessar shall also wed, late in life. He will be 
graced with six children. Five girls and one son, and his son’s name 
will be Frodo. They will all live to be very old and lead very full 
and happy lives.”

Finally able to look away, Frodo wiped his eyes and smiled in relief.

“Be at peace, Frodo.”

And Frodo was. 

*** 

Ten years later, Frodo neared his one hundred and eleventy-first 
birthday and was sure that he was done having children. He was 
relieved to find his remaining children had finally grown up and 
moved out of the house, leaving him and Sam the long awaited privacy 
they desired. On one fateful night of a red full moon, Frodo did not 
give it a thought that he would again get pregnant.

But alas, Elbereth had made her request to Manwe and Frodo, who had 
not aged in the years he lived in the West, was graced with another 
child. 

In almost a year’s time, Frodo was delighted and slightly amused to 
hold his tenth child -- a daughter -- in his arms. He and Sam named 
her Alasse, which meant joy. 

And she was, a bringer of great joy to all. 

*** 

The years continued, nearly two hundred, in fact, and as time passed, 
Frodo finally healed, all but the memory and the loss of his love, 
Aragorn, who often claimed his thoughts on those dark and rainy cold 
nights. 

To Frodo’s surprise, Sam remained at his side, perhaps graced with 
longevity by Manwe so Frodo would not be alone. They were happy 
years, full of precious moments and endless adventures. The most 
wondrous were the nights -- Frodo could finally not fear a red moon 
and made love to Samwise Gamgee as much as he wanted.
 
But when Frodo found Sam in their home, still in bed though it was 
late morning, he realized that the ending of days was coming. The 
children had long since gone to live their own lives. Frodo knew that 
in Middle-Earth, his four oldest children had passed away, as well as 
Aragorn and his elven princess. Almost daily,he wept in sadness at 
their passing. 

It was shortly after hearing of their four oldest children’s deaths 
that Sam also started to look old, and tired. Climbing into bed next 
to his true love, Frodo knew the time had come to make their one last 
journey. Frodo only asked Sam one thing: “Don’t go where I can’t 
follow.”

That night, Samwise Gamgee passed away out of Valinor. Three hours 
later, Frodo followed him. 

But wait -- this is still not the end. For Frodo found himself not in 
darkness, in death. He found himself instead in a place of light. 

A gentle man appeared before him and smiled, taking his left hand. 
The hand that had once had only four fingers. Frodo was taken aback 
to see that he had five now.
 
“Welcome at long last, Frodo Baggins. We have waited for you. They 
have waited for you.”

Allowing the man to lead him through a tunnel, Frodo was told that he 
was in the halls of Mandos and had earned his place in eternity, in 
the lands called Paradise. 

But Frodo only asked him if he had seen another hobbit pass by, that 
it was important he find Sam. But the gentle being smiled and led him 
out of the tunnel and into the arms of those who had been waiting for 
him.

Frodo couldn’t believe his eyes. They were here, they were all here, 
all as he remembered them, untouched by time. 

His children, Bilbo, now young and energetic, Boromir, Faramir, Merry 
and Pippin who were sitting on a high wall smoking pipeweed, seated 
in front of a human wearing a great crown. Frodo was informed that 
this was King Theoden.

Merry, as he leaned against Theoden’s chest, asked with a grin, 
“Frodo what took you so long? Now the real fun can begin!” 

The most joyous reunion was yet to come. As Frodo turned and Faramir 
and Boromir parted, Frodo spotted two glowing figures in a field 
waving to him.

Screaming in delight, Frodo ran towards them with his arms open wide 
and flew into the embrace of Samwise Gamgee and, at long last, 
Aragorn, son of Arathorn. 

“Frodo!”

“Aragorn! Sam!”

“You have returned to me at last.”

“And I will never leave you again. Aragorn, Never, ever!” 

And in that moment, Frodo knew he would spend the rest of eternity 
with those he loved and never again would they be parted. At long 
last, he had finally come home and truly believed that someone had 
been watching over him. Everyone. 

Many happen reunions continued when in Frodo’s delight, Gandalf too 
was graced by Manwe, to visit The Halls of Mandos from time to time.  

And so Frodo Baggins, of the nine fingers, the ring bearer, the 
hobbit who had no hope, lived Happily (For)ever After. Because 
goodbye is never forever. 

The END!

Unsatisfied with this ending, I proceeded to write a sequel called, 
‘What Dreams May Come,’ please proceed to that story.