Story Downloaded from Open Scrolls Archive (https://www.openscrolls.net)

Title: Finding Home (#1371)
Author: thegraybluebird
Chapters: 5

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Archive: Tolkien
Category: Femme Fatale
Description: (Yes, I did change the title.) Chayton leaves her house one raining morning to get away from her life of strife, and is injured, landing her in Middle- Earth as part of it. She meets many on her journey in search of finding home. CHAPTER 5 IS UP! PLEASE READ AND REVIEW, THANX! Thanx to my beta.
Published: 08 Nov 2004
Updated: 04 Jan 2005
Warnings:
Type: General
Characters: Chayton; Aragorn; Fellowship members; others


Chapter 1 - Events In The Woods

Title: Finding Home

By: thegraybluebird

Author's Disclaimer: I own none of Tolkein's characters (but I wish I did in some cases *wink*), but only my own and this story.

A/N: I wasn't really sure where to place this story, but I chose a place that suited it best. I guess it's better here since I take what I know of the characters from the movies, and put them into play how I see fit. Please leave me feedback. Thanks!





CHAPTER 1

Chayton ran down the steep steps from her house and onto the damp street below. It had been raining for two days, and it didn't seem to be letting up anytime soon. It was only sprinkling now, so Chayton took this opportunity to escape the endless bickering inside the walls of her home. Her mother and stepfather's rocky relationship had made her the main target for arguements, and Chayton couldn't take one more second of it.

Mist sprayed up at Chayton's face, making her shudder. The rain made her feel inspired somehow, as if the sky's teardrops could coax and clense even the dirtiest of things.

Chayton changed directions in her path and headed south. The rain was now at her back, as she listened to the almost unique sound of her shoes squishing with water beneath her feet.

She zipped her coat up to her chin and placed the hood over her raven colored hair. She began to jog down the muddy road that was supposed to have been cemented sometime ago. Chayton turned onto the old bicycle trail and disappeared into the sanctuary of the forest. Even after a few minutes had passed, Chayton ran, as if she were being chased. It seemed to be what she had come to do with most of her time as of late. She raised her arms near her sides for more balance and breathed deeply as she picked up her pace.

Chayton was a strong runner. She remembered how her father used to tell her that she was born to run free, like the wind. He said it was the Souix blood that ran through her veins that gave her such grace and agility. Her name even, meaning 'falcon,' set the stage for his statements, though it did not matter now. Chayton's father was deceased, having died the day before Chayton's sixteenth birthday.

Tears of sweat and pain stung her eyes as she pushed herself into a fast sprint. Her feet sunk deeper into puddles at each step she took. Her long legs, that made her thin figure seem more balanced, gave her the speed and endurance she had. Mud spalshed onto Chayton's pant legs as she rounded the corner eagerly.

She noted the two paths in the forest, one she always took that led her back to her house, and the other, more uncertain one. Chayton wiped her sleeve across her eyes, making her sight clearer. She couldn't stop to think which path to take, for her heart only wanted to carry her further and further away.

She allowed herself to be lead down the more murky path. The trees were not as thick here, but continued to prickle at Chayton's skin. She forced her way through, ripping her sleeve on one of the tree branches. It wasn't long after she began to venture down the second path that Chayton realized she was lost. She stopped abruptly, attempting to turn around, when her she slipped on the muddy hillside. She let out a quick, short whimper as tumbled over the edge. Then, there was complete silence, and she couldn't feel anything but the still beating of her heart within her breast.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

When Chayton awoke some odd hours later, she turned onto her side and vomited twice. Saliva stuck to her lower lip as she set her mind on not thinking about the pile of puke beside her. Chayton scooted somewhat to the right and sighed as she tried to relax backward.

Chayton lay straight on her back, her clothes packed with dried mud, and her body aching all over. She widened her eyes, trying to see all corners of her surroundings. All she could see was the ivory moon and the few clouds that lingered in the cobalt colored sky.

Chayton tried to sit up, but only caused her battered body more pain. She couldn't see where she fell from, but from the way she felt, Chayton knew she fell a long way down. Though it wasn't likely, Chayton thought that perhaps someone could've been nearby.

She perched herself up on one elbow, "Hello?! Is anyone out there? Help me, please!"

She stopped and listened for an answer, but none came. She remembered that no one knew where she was, and that no one was coming.

Chayton curled into the fetal position. She wrapped her arms around her knees and lay silently. She wouldn't be able to see where she was, let alone try anything in the blackness of the night.

Chayton closed her eyes and cried herself to sleep. She didn't usually cry, but this time seemed as good as any, because nobody was around to see her. All she could do now was wait for dawn-or help.


More time passed and Chayton remained restless in her quest for sleep. She flopped onto her stomach, then onto her back, as she continued to endure each ounce of her injuries. The pain of her right wrist and arm cut into her like a sharpened blade. At one point, the pain became too great when Chayton hit it trying to sit up. She let out a loud yelp. Her cry echoed into the distance, and bounced back to her. She fell backward again, this time her head slamming onto the cold, hard ground.

Chayton fell into a dizzy spell then, not knowing whether she was awake or dreaming. It felt as if she had been lifted up and was floating softly in the wind, but she couldn't make out anything. Then, with great relief, she passed out completely.


Chapter 2 - Two New Companions

Title: Finding Home
By: thegraybluebird
Author's Disclaimer: I own none of Tolkein's characters (but I wish I did in some cases *wink*), but only my own and this story.



CHAPTER 2

As Chayton began to wake, her mind strayed from those thoughts of a dream slipping away to those of pain and confusion. Her eyes fluttered open, but her vision was still blurry. She rubbed her eyes gently until they came into focus. She shreiked, as a man with long, brownish hair hovered over her, watching her. Chayton thrusted her hands up, whacking the man in the nose. He let out a grunt as he held his hands over his nose and fell backward.

Chayton scrambled backward and climbed to her feet. Her legs and arms did not hurt as much, but the throbbing pain on the back of her wrist caused her to halt her actions for a moment.

She stared at him and raised her fist again, letting her hurting right hand lay at her side. "What do you want?! Who are you?!"

"That's a nice way to treat someone who had been watching over you for the past day or two," The man chuckled heartilly, rubbing the blood away that dripped from his nose.

"Don't you dare laugh at me. I did not ask you to take care of me, you know," Chayton said, frowning.

The man took a step forward, and Chayton recoiled. "I will not harm you, mellon nin."

"I am not your "melon lin" or whatever you said! How do I know you won't harm me?" she asked.

The tall and slightly muscular man raised his hands at Chayton. "If I was going to harm you, don't you think I would've already done so, Chayton?"

"How did you know my name?" she asked, worried.

The man pulled a small wallet from his pocket and flashed the picture of Chayton inside. "Strange thing to carry yourself in this...thing," he said.

"Give me that!" Chayton swiped her wallet from the man and put it in her back pocket. She hardly ever carried her purse anywhere. "What kind of a freak doesn't know what a wallet is!!"

The man looked at her, bemused.

"It's got my identification and everything in it," Chayton said. "Don't you have a wallet?"

The man had an estranged looks upon his face. "Where are you from?"

"God, you want to know my bra size too?" Chayton scoffed and crossed her arms.

The man had a questionable look upon his face. This stranger didn't seem dangerous at the moment, so Chayton lowered her defense somewhat, and took a better look at the man. He wore dark leggings, a shirt, and an overcoat. A necklace of an angel hung around his neck. His eyes seemed gentle, but also fierce and determined.

Chayton rubbed her eyebrows and sighed deeply. "Look, I'm sorry. I don't know what got over me. What did you say your name was?"

"I am called Aragorn," he replied. He smiled at her and bowed.

"What the heck kind of name is that?" she replied, skeptical.

"Well, I would ask you what sort of name is Chayton?" Aragorn answered, crossing his arms. "But since it must be the name your father gave you as an infant, it suits you, as my name suits me."

"Whatever," Chayton said, sighing.

Chayton looked up at the treetops. She noticed that this was not the same forest she had been in the previous morning. The trees were giant and thick. The air smelled of nature's life--berries, moss. It was clean and crisp as a newly washed apple. It was not home anymore.

"Look, if you don't mind, I'd like to be getting home now. You wouldn't by chance know where the nearest bus station is, would you?" Chayton asked. Her light brown skin glistened under the sun.

Aragorn's eyebrow raised, for he found a strange interest in this girl. She was definately not from his world, for she acted and looked like none in Middle-Earth. He cleared his throat.

"I'm sorry, but there are no such bus stations. Here in Middle-Earth, we have only horses," Aragorn explained to her. "But for now, we must walk."

He grabbed at Chayton's arm, but she yanked it from his grasp. "Don't touch me! I'm not going anywhere with you!"

"I'm afraid you will be better off coming along with me, for there are worst dangers in these forests at night," he warned. His eyes lit up with truth.

Chayton's bottom lip quivered. "Danger? Like what, wolves?"

Aragorn's face had a stern expression on it. "Something like that, but much worst. Do you care to find out?"

Chayton blew out a defeating sigh and complied with Aragorn. She did not want to find out.

"Great, I'm with a guy named Aragorn in a place called "Middle-Earth." I didn't know there was a top, middle, and bottom Earth," Chayton mumbled to herself.

"What, my lady?" Aragorn asked.

"Nothing," she said, swatting her hand through the air. "Anyway, who are you calling 'Lady?""

"It is a form of respect toward women here. Does it bother you that I call you that?" Aragorn asked. His deep eyes seemed to smile at her.

Chayton had never been called a lady or a woman before, so perhaps this would be something fresh and new for her. Chayton answered. "It's fine."

Aragorn placed a hand on her shoulder. "Come Lady Chayton, we must make it back to the others at camp before nightfall, or they will worry."

"Others?" Chayton asked, worried once again.

Aragorn didn't give Chayton another chance to speak as he led her off through the forest. Once they had been walking for an hour, Aragorn let up their grueling pace somewhat. He could tell by Chayton's facial expression that total exhaustion was near. He offered her his arm once again, but she declined.

"I can hold my own," Chayton said.

"This I can see," Aragorn said, chuckling. "How is your other wrist?"

"It's fine; it'll be fine once I get home," Chayton said.

Aragorn pushed his hair behind one ear. "And where is home?"

"Wisconsin, in the United States. Have you ever been there?" Chayton asked stupidly. "Oh, yeah, of course not. I'm not even sure it exists anymore, now that I am here in "Middle-Earth.""

Chayton lowered her head away from Aragorn and bit her lip. Aragorn's concerned eyes followed their path ahead.

"Can I ask why you were in the western part of this forest, alone and unprotected?" Aragorn wondered. "It is still dangerous, even for one as courageous as you."

"I was just out jogging in the rain, and then I woke up here. I don't wish to discuss the details," Chayton replied humbly.

Aragorn placed his hand lightly on her shoulder, feeling her skin recoil from his touch. "I will be here, if ever you need to talk. Maybe soon you will learn to trust me."

Chayton's eyes watered, and she closed her eyes for a brief moment. In that instant, her foot became caught on an overgrown tree stump, lunging her forward. She knew she would hit thr ground, and that this time her wrist would probably be shattered. Chayton didn't want to open her eyes and see the blood. She felt sick in her stomach already.

A moment passed and Chayton felt as if she were secured by somthing or someone. Perhaps Aragorn had caught her, or perhaps she was unconcious again. Chayton opened one eye, to meet a most beautiful face. She thought that she was asleep, until he spoke to her.

His clear blue eyes were dotted with green, and his long, blond hair flowed freely just below his shoulders. His gentle face and his sweet, yet stern voice snapped Chayton back to reality.

"Are you alright, my lady?" he asked.

Chayton was mesmerized by his beauty, but still managed to speak. "Wow....I've never seen anyone with pointed ears before."

The man, (or whatever he was,) laughed justly, joined soon by the chuckling of Aragorn beside him.

"I am an elf. My name is Legolas Greenleaf, my lady," he said. His eyes sparkled.

Legolas helped Chayton to steady on her feet, and she looked at him from head to toe. "Thank you."

Legolas bowed slightly, smiling in her direction. "It was my pleasure, my lady."

Chayton was both confused and flabbergasted. "How did you-- Where did you---?"

"I was in search for Lord Aragorn, for he had not yet returned," Legolas replied.

"And Legolas has quite the timing, as it seems. Don't you think so, Lady Chayton?" Aragorn chuckled again, and clasped hands with the elf. "it's good to see you, mellon nin."

Chayton had her right wrist resting beside her stomach. She raised her left hand and shook her finger at the two of them.

"There's that funny word again--"melon-lin." What is that?" she asked.

"The words are "mellon nin," and they mean "my friend" in the elvish language," Legolas corrected.

Chayton unknowingly shook her head. "Uh-huh, okay."

Aragorn and Legolas exchanged glances and shrugged.

Aragorn remembered Chayton's exhaustion and led her on by the arm. "Come, my lady. We will make it to the camp now, so you may rest."

Chayton felt somewhat safer with Aragorn and Legolas, but would she feel the same around the others she was to meet?

Legolas trailed behind Chayton, admiring her natural beauty. He could sense something ailed her, but for now, he would only leave it at that, a thought. He watched the sun in the deep blue sky, and listened for any intruding force.


Chapter 3 - Incidents On The Way To Camp

Title: Finding Home
By: thegraybluebird
Author's Disclaimer: I own none of Tolkein's characters (but I wish I did in some cases *wink*), but only my own and this story.


CHAPTER 3

Aragorn, Legolas, and Chayton had walked throughout the day, only stopping for short breaks. Chayton had never walked so much, or so far in one day, but surprisingly, it did not tire her. She actually found the whispers of nature to be quite peaceful. At one point, Chayton began to hike ahead of the other two without even noticing it.

They kept up their pace well into the early evening, when the exhaustion started to hit Chayton head on. She kept her slinged wrist close to her breast, in hopes of reducing the pain. Chayton hadn't spoken much to Aragorn and Legolas, but only watched them. They fascinated her, because they were unlike any men she had ever met.

The radiant sun dipped low in the sky, its orange glow comforting Chayton. Her weary eyes wanted to follow the sun into its nighttime resting place. She was so terribly exhausted that she could hardly move her aching body anymore. Chayton had been watching her footing for the past hour until Legolas spoke to her.

"Are you alright?" he asked, walking in step with her.

Chayton smiled. "I'm fine, just a little tired."

"And that's to be expected," he smiled warmly. "Your day has been quite tiresome, I can imagine."

Chayton looked up at Legolas.

"Can you imagine it? From what I've seen today, it doesn't seem like you ever run out of breath, or get tired," Chayton stated.

"Elves do not tire, nor do we require sleep as humans do. It is just in our nature that this is so," Legolas chuckled slightly.

"You really are that much different from people like Aragorn and me," Chayton wondered.

"In some ways, this is true. For instance, we cannot die by any disease or old age. But, in most ways, we are all very much the same, too," Legolas answered. "We have feeling and emotion; we can feel pain or loss. We have the ability to use logic and reason. We are not merely mindless creatures."

Chayton giggled at that comment. Legolas's eyes lit up like the stars, and his smile was brightly displayed on his fair face. Chayton was satisfied with Legolas's answers, but intrigued her even more.

Legolas smiled again at Chayton before running on ahead of her and Aragorn. Chayton walked beside Aragorn now, her eyes following Legolas's figure in the distance.

"He's so agile that it's almost unbelievable," Chayton noted. "What other unusual traits do elves possess?"

Aragorn peered down at Chayton. Chayton could tell that Aragorn was an aged man by the warm look in his eyes, but his rugged physical feautures didn't tell you that otherwise.

"Elves, like Legolas, posses many traits that we do not. I heard you and Legolas discussing this topic moments ago, did you not?" Aragorn asked.

"Yes. He said that elves did not sleep, and could not die from disease or old age," Chayton replied. Her brown eyes were inquisitive.

"They have greater eyesight and hearing abilities than us. Also, their accuracy with their weapons are supreme," Aragorn added. He placed his hands behind his back.

Chayton nodded, taking all this information into memory. She bowed her head for a moment, her long hair tickling her tan skin.

"What is it, my lady?" Aragorn wondered.

"It's nothing. It's just that this all seems to have come from a fairytale storybook, that's all," Chayton said. "I keep feeling like I'm going to wake up, and this would all be a dream, but it's not, is it?"

"It is sometimes difficult to tell what is real, and what is not," Aragorn said under his breath. "But, listen to what your heart tells you, for it will speak the truth to you alone."

Chayton sighed deeply and shook her head.

"I wish I was as confident as you, Aragorn," she mumbled.

Relief flushed over Chayton as they neared the top of the hill that they had been treading endlessly up for the past two hours. She could see a wisp of smoke rising, suspecting it to be from a campfire.

They came up and stopped beside Legolas, who had been waiting for them there after his scouting trip. He smiled at Chayton and quickly looked toward Aragorn. Chayton recieved the impression that the two wanted to speak privately, so she turned around and took ten paces back down the hill.

"Did you find anything, Legolas?" Aragorn asked, crossing his arms.

"I saw a smoldered fire pit and orc tracks leading from the western forest," Legolas replied. "It's a good thing you found the lady when you did. They've been tracking us for awhile now. What are your suggestions, mellon nin?"

Aragorn shifted his feet on the ground and sighed. "It's unlikely that we've been spotted as of yet, because of the fact that we have not been ambushed. I will take Lady Chayton down by the others and we will find shelter elsewhere for the night."

"That would be wise, for I can already smell the enemy is near," Legolas replied. "I will go out again and find the position of the enemy. I will look for you later, when I feel it is safe."

"I have trust in you, mellon nin," Aragorn smiled.

Legolas patted Aragorn on the shoulder and departed.

Chayton watched Legolas disappear into the dimming light of the evening. She trudged back up the hill to where Aragorn awaited her.

"Where is Legolas going?" she asked.

"Do not worry, Lady Chayton. He went out to make sure that we are not being followed," Aragorn didn't want to alert Chayton, but knew there were things she needed to know. "There are many creatures here in Middle-Earth that will strike you dead before you even have the chance to defend yourself. You must always keep your eyes and ears open, even when you sleep. Do you understand?"

Chayton felt like she had a knot in her throat, but reluctantly nodded. "I understand, Aragorn."

Aragorn could tell that this upset Chayton. He smiled and tried to make her feel more at ease. "Come, you must be famished and weary, and there are my friends that I want you to meet."

Chayton was sly, as she took one last look around her before heading down to meet the others at camp.


Aragorn led Chayton along a stone path quickly, so not to be spotted by any foe. He pointed to some boulders, that were the base of the rocky hillside. As Aragorn kept his eyes open for any movement, he still didn't allow Chayton to stay anymore than two paces ahead of him. Aragorn hurried Chayton into the shadows of the massive rocks, and stopped once more to look and listen for any movement. After a few moments passed, Aragorn nudged Chayton's shoulder, and pointed upwards at the rocks.

Chayton studied Aragorn's intentions, and said, "We have to climb up there?"

"I know you are in pain, but we must get to the others before nightfall," Aragorn replied honestly. "You do not fear heights, do you, my Lady?"

Chayton rose her chin, and stared at Aragorn. He seemed to look through her, instead of at her.

"Of course I'm not afraid of heights," she replied, raising an eyebrow.

"Good," Aragorn said suddenly, throwing Chayton over his shoulder. "Now, hold on!"

Aragorn lept onto the rocky hillside, climbing with the strength of five men. Chayton was forced not to detest his sudden actions, for behind them did tread the most foul looking creatures Chayton had ever seen.

"Oh, my God!" Chayton cried out.

She grasped Aragorn about the waist, her eyes not leaving the horror behind them. Wretched creatures, short, with hunched backs and rotting flesh cackled and cried out as they began to throw objects at Aragorn and Chayton. Chayton wiggled on Aragorn's shoulder, almost causing him to fall backward.

He turned his head slightly to warn Chayton as he climbed. "If you value your life, for the sake of Valor you will hold still!"

Chayton froze, physically and emotionally, as the creatures began to climb up after them. Their yellow teeth, caked with filth, smiled crookedly, while their dead eyes sought to murder. Chayton closed her eyes, hoping that this was all a nightmare. Then, Aragorn let out a painful grunt. Chayton reopened her eyes to meet one of the creatures head on. He had sliced the side of Aragorn's ankle, nearly cutting Chayton's face in the process. Chayton instinctly swiped at the creature, causing it to fall from the hillside to its death below.

His muscles began to give out, as Aragorn reached for the top ledge of the hillside. Then, a hand grasped his, and began to pull both he and Chayton to safety. Chayton rolled onto the solid ground, and looked up to see Aragorn and another man fighting off the intruding force. The creatures began to crawl over the ledge, and Aragorn and the man could not hold them off alone.

Aragorn looked up. "Lady Chayton, stay back!"

Chayton saw the fury in Aragorn's eyes, but couldn't just sit there and do nothing. Chayton's eyebrows frowned as she climbed to her feet. She looked around frantically for something, anything to use as a weapon. She settled on the only things around her--rocks. She picked up one of the heaviest rocks she could carry and lunged it at one creature. It squealed and fell off the ledge.

Aragorn and the other man quickly finished off the remaining creatures, whose cries echoed throughout the forest. Chayton put her wrist to her chest, trying to sheild the pain she had caused it throwing the rock. She caught her breath, and pulled her loose raven hair back again before facing Aragorn and the man.

Aragorn placed his bloodied sword in its sheath, as did the other man. Aragorn clasped arms with him, and exchanged a few words. Then, Aragorn looked back at Chayton.

"Lady Chayton, this is Boromir, son of the Steward of Gondor," Aragorn said. "Boromir, this is Lady Chayton, whom I rescued in the western part of the forest. She is to travel with us for now."

Chayton peered through the loose auburn hair strands, into the man's gaze. His physique was strong, like Aragorn's, but his face revealed a younger man. He smiled casually and extended his hand to Chayton. "Well, then. Welcome, my Lady."

She shook Boromir's hand, his firm grip practically crushing her small hand. Boromir smiled again at Chayton, who smiled stealthily back. Then, she stood back, awaiting Aragorn.

"Where are the others?" Aragorn asked Boromir.

"I was also sent after you, my friend," Boromir chuckled lightly. "We, Legolas and I, convinced Gimli to stay put with the wee ones and protect them until we returned."

Aragorn raised an eyebrow. "And, how, did you convince him exactly?"

Boromir shrugged and smiled. "We tied him to a tree stump and told the hobbits to stay perfectly quiet and watch him."

Aragorn smiled, shaking his head.

"Legolas went out scouting, and should be back later. We should get back then before any of the others come out to look for us as well," Aragorn said.

"And before any more orcs decide to show up," Boromir added.

Aragorn nodded to that comment, and walked over to Chayton.

Chayton looked up at him. "Orcs? Is that what those loathsome creatures are called?"

Aragorn nodded, looking into her dark brown eyes. "Just one of the many enemy races here in Middle Earth. You've done well, though. Are you alright?"

"I'm fine, just tired, that's all," Chayton answered.

"Maybe everything will make more sense to you after you've eaten and slept," Boromir suggested.

Chayton looked over at Boromir, and then back at Aragorn.

"Come, we've delayed here long enough," Aragorn said, and they walked to the camp.


Chapter 4 - Conversations

Title: Finding Home
By: thegraybluebird
Author's Disclaimer: I own none of Tolkein's characters but only my own, and this story.




CHAPTER 4--Conversations

It was near dusk when Aragorn, Boromir, and Chayton arrived at the campsite. Chayton was beyond exhausted, but was more hungry and confused then anything. The three hadn't encountered any more of those orc creatures, and for this, Chayton was glad. She was lost in thought for a few moments, until Aragorn placed a gentle hand on her shoulder to bring her back to reality.

"Lady Chayton," he whispered.

Chayton looked at Aragorn, nodded her head in acknowledgment, and smiled. She watched as Boromir went ahead into camp, probably to make sure everything was in order.

Chayton hadn't even the chance to place all the events that had been presented before her into her mind, before she was approached by two small males. They were short--much shorter than her, and had golden curls on their heads, and very hairy feet.

She didn't want to be rude by calling them children because she wasn't sure they were. Besides, knowing that she was in this place, Middle-Earth, for all Chayton knew these two could be older than Aragorn! The two males were playfully tugging on Chayton's arms, but she looked to Aragorn when she wasn't sure about how to react.

"Lady Chayton, these are two of our companions. They are hobbits, Merry and Pippin," the hobbits were excitedly jumping all over both he and Chayton. "Settle down, you two; this is Lady Chayton."

Chayton reluctantly smiled at the two and kneeled so she could be face to face with them. Both hobbits took turns kissing Chayton on the hand.

One hobbit pointed to himself and said, "I'm Pippin." He then pointed to the other hobbit. "This is Merry."

"It's nice to meet you, Merry and Pippin," Chayton replied.

Merry and Pippin grabbed ahold of Chayton's unhurt hand, but soon found another reason to start something.

"I saw her first!" Merry told Pippin.

"Na-uh! She's my new friend, Merry!" Pippin replied.

"Well, she smiled at me first!" Merry said.

"That's only because she was trying to be nice!" Pippin added, crossing his arms.

"No, it's because I'm cutest!" Merry declared, smiling.

"Na-uh!"

"Ah-uh!"

Aragorn rolled his eyes and then finally stepped in between the two hobbits. "Come, Lady Chayton, I want you to meet the rest of my companions. Then, we can eat and rest, for it will soon be dark."

Merry and Pippin argued as they led Chayton down to the camp, which was located in a well forested area. Aragorn folded his hands behind his back and followed them to where Boromir waited with the others. Among the other companions, Chayton first noticed a gruff-looking short man with a pipe extending from his lips. He had reddish-brown hair and a thick beard to match. His first impression made Chayton raise an eyebrow, but she realized that he couldn't be all that bad if he was in the company of Aragorn.

Aragorn looked to Boromir, and then to the short man. "Ah, I see you've finally escaped from your tree trunk, Gimli. I hope the hobbits didn't take from you too much of your pipe weed while you were rendered helpless!"

"A fine thing tying up a dwarf, Aragorn! A fine thing indeed!" Gimli answered, pointing his pipe at Aragorn. Gimli made a small growling noise before walking over to where Merry and Pippin were fighting over some pieces of fruit.

Aragorn shook his head and smiled at Chayton. "I'm sorry, my lady; that was Gimli."

"Is he always that charming?" Chayton asked sarcastically.

"Oh, you get used to it. You should see him on a good day!" Boromir laughed out.

Then, Chayton felt someone tugging on the back of her shirt. She turned around slightly, to see two more hobbits standing behind her. She looked down at them and smiled.

"I couldn't help overhearing, my lady. My name is Sam. Sam Gamgee," said the heavier hobbit in his soft spoken voice. He nodded to the other hobbit. "This is Mr. Frodo."

The hobbit called Frodo seemed to be in a trance-like state before Sam said his name. He looked up at Chayton with his blue eyes and said. "It's a pleasure, my lady. As Sam has already told you, my name is Frodo."

Chayton shook their hands. "It's nice to meet you, too."

Chayton sighed as she stood up. She blushed slightly as she realized that everyone else was watching her while she had met Frodo and Sam. She followed Aragorn, Boromir, and the hobbits, as they joined Gimli, Merry, and Pippin near the blazing fire. She took a sit in front of the fire beside Aragorn, for she was still shy of the others.

Aragorn settled in and looked at the others, who eyed Chayton in wonderment.

"My friends, as you may or may not know, this is Lady Chayton. We found her alone in the western part of the forest. She is to travel with us for the time being," Aragorn explained, his kind eyes glowing.

Gimli made some sort of low growling noise. "A woman in this Fellowship! It is unheard of! This is no place for a young woman to be."

Chayton shifted uneasily, but Aragorn covered her hand with his own, and smiled at her. "That may be, Master Gimli, but never-the-less, she is coming with us."

The group, Gimli in particular, simmered down with the idea of Chayton traveling with them. It was unusual, yes, but it was necessary.

Chayton listened in wonderment at all the stories the four hobbits told of their home in the Shire. She never knew anyone had so much to say at a time. Chayton had never been in the company of so many men before, but she slowly was learning to feel more comfortable as she learned more about them. She hardly had a chance to say anything, but Chayton was thankful for that; she really wasn't comfortable talking about herself. After they had all eaten, Aragorn went to keep watch so that the others could hopefully find sleep.

Not soon after the mood engulfed the lands in its milky light, the hobbits and Gimli lay fast asleep in a corner of camp. They all made such an awful snoring noise as a unit that it was a wonder they didn't attract any enemies or wild animals. Chayton sat closer to the fire, watching the glowing embers grow in its pit, and then die from the light, yet variable wind. She brought her knees to her chest, and lifted her right arm to examine her wrist. Lightly touching her bruised radius with her left hand, she grunted slightly.

"Does your wrist still hurt you much?" a familiar voice asked.

Chayton watched a lean man's shadow as Boromir emerged from behind her. He sat down beside her, but not so to invade her personal space.

"I'm sorry if I startled you, my lady," he added, a gentle glow within his eyes. "I hope that I am not intruding."

Chayton shook her head, her lovely dark hair tickling at her neck. "No. I was just thinking, but it was nothing."

"If you are sure," Boromir replied. He frowned when he saw the condition of Chayton's arm. "How are you faring, Lady Chayton?"

"Oh, this?" Chayton sort of laughed and shook her head again. She layed her arm down on her now outstretched legs. "Aragorn said it will heal. It doesn't bother me so much right now, but thank you just the same."

Boromir rested an arm on his knee. "Think nothing of it, my lady. If it does begin to hurt again, let us know though. Perhaps you could even ask the elves to heal you completely when we reach Lothlorien."

Chayton turned to meet Boromir's gaze. "There are more elves like Legolas?"

Boromir chuckled. "Of course there is. There are many different groups of elves in Lothlorien and Mirkwood."

"Mirkwood? That's where Legolas said he was from," Chayton recalled. "How is it that the elves can have such great magical powers?"

Boromir shrugged and smiled. "I do not know myself. It's just something that has never been questioned. We have never questioned you being here, have we?"

"I see your point," Chayton replied.

"Everything and everyone in Middle-Earth just are. We are what the Valar want us to be," Boromir added, scratching his chin.

"The Valar?" Chayton wondered.

"The Holy Ones," Boromir tried to rephrase.

"Oh, like gods are from where I come from. I understand," she said.

Boromir poked at the fire with a stick before resuming the conversation. "Do you miss your home, wherever that may be?"

Chayton froze at his inquiry. She had never thought about if she did or not before.

~~FLASHBACK~~

(It's the morning that Chayton ran from her house. The father and mother are fighting in the other room, as Chayton listens.)

'Why are my tools out of place? I told Chayton never to touch my tools, or she'd pay for it!'

'Now, dear, just settle down. She didn't harm them, did she?'

'That's besides my point, Miriam. The child has no discipline. She hasn't receieved any from her dead father, but she damn well will from me! Where is she?! Chayton!!'

'No, Roberto, please!'

Chayton listened to her mother and step-father through her bedroom wall. She quickly headed for the front door when she heard her step-father's voice call for her. Not this time, Chayton thought. She threw open the front door and ran down the steps, and down the street....

~~END FLASHBACK~~

"I'm not sure," Chayton finally replied. Then, she changed the conversation slightly. "Where is your home, Boromir? What is it like?"

Boromir raised his eyebrows at her sudden change in the conversation, but said nothing.

"Oh, my home is in the White City of Minas Tirith in Gondor. My father is a steward there, presiding over our city. My younger brother, Faramir, is the Captain of Gondor," Boromir replied. "You'd love it there, my lady. It is the most beautiful place in Middle-Earth. The white tower of Ecthelion, overlooking the city. The banners proudly blow gently in the breeze...the silver trumpets...."

Chayton's eyes lit up slightly. "It's sounds like a very beautiful place, Boromir."

"Perhaps, one day, I may show you so that you can see for yourself," suggested he.

Chayton once again peered into the fire, her face motionless. She was all choked up inside, and didn't know what to reply to Boromir. He lowered his head slightly, but still watched Chayton for a response. She looked up at him again, before laying down in front of the dying fire. Boromir relentlessly stood and turned to leave.

Before he did, Chayton whispered, "Thank you, Boromir, perhaps someday."

"I am off to relieve Aragorn of his post. Good night, my lady," he replied, and left Chayton to herself to sleep.


Chapter 5 - To Lothlorien

Title: Finding Home
By: thegraybluebird
Author's Disclaimer: I own none of Tolkein's characters (but I wish I did in some cases *wink*), but only my own and this story.


CHAPTER 5--To Lothlorien

Chayton layed down to sleep with heavy thoughts on her mind. She still couldn't fully comprehend that this was all real. She realized that she was not dreaming this up after finishing her conversation with Boromir. It was then when the hard truth had hit her like a ton of bricks.

Chayton lay on her back, nestling her right arm at her breast. She thought about what Boromir had said about the elves. Could they really heal her like he said? she thought. This thought made Chayton suddenly think of her father. Their people had rituals of healing, so could the elves somehow be early descendents of Native American peoples? Chayton knew it was a farfetched idea, but not completely crazy. Her father told her that only those with the guidance of great spirits could have such magnificance and wisdom. Elves certainly were magnificent, and the way Boromir talked about them, they sounded as if they were wise as Gods.

Turning on her side, Chayton looked up at the nighttime sky. The sky was ablaze with stars: thousands of tiny pinpricks against dark velvet. The moon was a thin crescent in comparison, just a faint white sliver It was silently resting compared to the passionately burning stars. The stars were so visible it was as if you could reach up and pluck them from the sky, like grapes from a vine.

Chayton traced the outline of the sky with her fingers. Her father was up there now; a great spirit of the heavens. It had been so long since she heard his gentle voice, or touched his long, black hair. Had he not been taken so soon by Chayton's ancestors, she would still be happy and safe, from the terror that walked in the shadows of her bedroom at night.

"Father, please send me your guidance now, for I need it more than ever," she said to herself. Placing her left arm under her head, Chayton soon fell asleep, away from the thoughts she had long tried to forget.

Some time after Chayton had fallen asleep, she felt someone's hand covering her mouth. She awoke and instinctively began to scream. Her took a moment before she realized that it was Legolas who hovered over her. He pressed his finger to his lips, hushing her.

"What is it? What's happened?" Chayton asked.

"Please stay quiet, my lady," he whispered. "You must come now."

Legolas helped Chayton to her feet, and led her inward to the group. The others had been roused from their slumber as well. She could hear in the distance that something terrible was afoot.

Legolas already had his bow and arrows in hand. Aragorn, Boromir, and Gimli had their weapons drawn. Aragorn motioned for Chayton to hurry.

"Hurry and get them to the safety of Lorien, mellon nin; I will hold out the enemy, and rejoin you there," Legolas said.

"You cannot on your own, Legolas. You will be greatly outnumbered," Aragorn replied. "I will stay and fight with you."

Legolas smilied and nodded, holding his bow abreast. Aragorn looked toward the others.

"Boromir, Gimli, follow our path and it will lead you to the elven sanctuary," Aragorn said. "Get the hobbits and Lady Chayton to safety."

Boromir nodded, directing Chayton and the hobbits forward. Chayton protested away from Boromir, and went back to Aragorn.

"Lord Aragorn, I can help fight. My father taught me archery," Chayton said.

Aragorn lowered his sword slightly, placing a hand on Chayton's cheek. "No, Lady Chayton, you must get to safety."

"But--" Chayton began, worried.

"Do not fear, my lady, we will find you," Aragorn smiled.

Then, Legolas shouted, "Aragorn, they must make haste!"

Boromir returned and grabbed Chayton by the arm. She didn't look back at Legolas and Aragorn again, as she was hurried onward.

Aragorn had his drawn sword in both hands as the orcs began to pour down thorugh the trees. His eyes were fierce and his mind was filled with determination. The sneering orcs approached fast, but began to fall even faster as Legolas and Aragorn took them out one by one.


Chayton grabbed ahold of Merry and Pippin's small hands, as Boromir picked up and carried Frodo and Sam. Their feet traveled so quickly down the hill, that the poor hobbits and Gimli could hardly keep up. They came to a gorge with nothing but a sturdy log as a bridge for crossing. Gimli quickly crossed the log, and waited on the other side impatiently for the others. Chayton steadily worked her way onto the log, not looking down. Merry and Pippin helplessly clung to her sides, while Chayton safely crossed them. Boromir, carrying his sword and Frodo and Sam, made up the rear. The sounds of war cries and clashing weapons were heard in the distance behind them. Chayton slightly looked back, hoping to see Legolas and Aragorn on the horizon, but all she saw was smoldering darkness.

Light barely shown across the treetops, as the exhausted group slowed their pace to walking. They hadn't heard anything but silence in the past half hour. Chayton was worried because silence seemed more deadly than noise. Boromir set Frodo and Sam down, for they had made it to solid ground. Chayton noticed the pale and weak look upon the hobbit, Frodo's face. Around his neck was a small, golden ring. Frodo noticed her looking at it, and tucked it into his shirt.


Chayton slowed when Boromir came up beside her. "Boromir, do you think that Aragorn and Legolas are ok?"

Boromir smiled. "Do not worry, my lady. Just worry about taking care of yourself, now."

Chayton nodded and listened to the stillness of the woods they had entered. It was far more peaceful than she thought it could be, considering those villians that kept attacking them roamed about.

"How are the elves that live in Lothlorien? Are they much like Legolas?" Chayton asked, studying the expressions of the hobbits, Boromir, and Gimli.

Gimli threw the back of his axe over his shoulders. "The Lady of Lorien is said to be cunning. She can read your thoughts and everything. I don't like her already!"

"Is that truly a reason not to like somebody? Maybe trust issues, but not hatred," Chayton gave way to a small smile.

"Bah! I don't care; she won't get near me!" Gimli answered. "I've got the sight of a hawk, and the ears of a fox!"

Suddenly, the group seemed surrounded with multiple arrows pointed at their heads. There were at least five elves, to Chayton's fascination around them. Chayton gasped, as she met faces with another elf man, who's beauty was almost superior to the beauty of Legolas. Gimli let out a breath, lowering his axe slightly. Boromir stayed on full alert.

"The dwarf breathes so loudly that we could have shot him in the dark," the first elf said. " I am Haldir, the Marchwarden of Lorien. State your business here. Speak quickly if you value your lives!"

Chayton stood back to back with Boromir and the hobbits. They stood their silently, unknowing what to say. The elf's clear blue eyes locked with Chayton's own brown ones.

"Have you anything to say, young woman?" Haldir asked Chayton directly.

Chayton's mouth gaped as she looked to the others. They all just shrugged. Chayton cleared her throat, fixing her hair more to the side of her face. She knew she was not presentable, and it slightly embarrassed her.

"We only came to seek the protection of the elves," she claimed. "Please, we were attacked by horrible creatures, orcs, again this past night."

"She speaks the truth," Boromir added.

"Silence!" Haldir snapped at him. He looked the others over, before turning his attention back to Chayton. "Is this the truth?"

Chayton gulped and nodded. "Yes."

The elf with the clear blue eyes raised his eyebrows. Then, arrows suddenly were pointed behind Chayton. The elf brushed past her, and motioned for the elves to lower their weapons. Chayton's eyes widened when she saw Aragorn and Legolas walk up behind them. They were out of breath, but she could at least not detect any wounds from where she stood.

"Haldir, mellon nin!" Aragorn said, grasping arms with the elf. Legolas and Haldir nodded to one another.

Chayton watched them with great curiosity. They already know each other? Chayton thought. Middle-Earth seemed to be a small world after all.

"We ask for the protection of the Lady and Lord of the Golden Wood," Aragorn explained. He nodded over to Frodo the hobbit. "'Tis a heavy burden he carries."

"Very well," the elf called Haldir replied. He sneered at Gimli. "But, no dwarves are allowed past the boundaries of our woods."

"Why, you...." Gimli was cut off before he said anything regretful.

"Please, mellon nin, we must all pass through. Our fellowship is on a vital mission from Lord Elrond of Rivendell, and we cannot leave anyone behind,"
Aragorn repressed.

"Very well, but at least see to it that the dwarf takes a bath," Haldir replied.

Then, Haldir peered over at Chayton once again. She realized that the Native American made him look at her strangely. None of them must have ever seen someone who looked as she did before.

Haldir nodded his head toward her. "And, the girl? What is her purpose here? A whore, no doubt."

This not only angered Chayton's companions, but her as well. Before any of them could protest Haldir's accusations, Chayton lashed out at him first.

"How dare you suggest something like that? I am no thing to be taken by any man who pleases! How dare you!" Chayton was in Haldir's face. He saw the fury within her eyes, but made no eager reply.

Haldir realized his mistake, and bowed to the young woman. "My apologizes, but women do not usually travel with men that are on such a journey for anything otherwise. I have misjudged you."

"We rescued Chayton from the western forest. She is traveling with us until further notice, Haldir," Aragorn explained.

Aragorn placed a gentle hand on Chayton's shoulder. Her eyes flashes at Haldir once again before she turned and faced the other way. His apology meant nothing to such an insult as that!

"Come, then," Haldir said. "We will take you to meet with the Lord and Lady of the Golden Woods."

Chayton was disgusted with the elf, Haldir. How dare he just assume that she was a whore? He was nothing but a pompus, rude, annoying elven man, and she hated him!

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