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 hour