Return To My Love IV: The Unwanted

By Summer

Beta’d by grapeofdeath

Class:Slash

Rating: PG-13

Warnings: This series is Mpreg, however not in this part of the series. Also for those of tender heart, a tragic death of a hobbit and Elf (Not a Main character) occurs

Takes place three months after Frodo and Sam return from the Shire We are nearing the end of spring. Over sixteen years now have passed since the War of the Rings, and two and half years since Frodo returned to Middle-Earth. The year is 3035 (calendar for men), 1435 (Shire calendar). Fourth age.

(Ages of the Children- Hobbit years- of Frodo and Sam: Elanor is 16, Frodo Lad is 12, Rose is 11, little Merry is 10, Pippin lad is 9, Goldilocks is 8, Hamfast is 7, Daisy is 5, Primrose is now 3, and Bilbo is 2 ½ -- Not sticking to age canon from book, though I am keeping chronological at this point and time. Pip and Di: Sunshine aged six and Faramir is about 1 years old. Merry and Estella: Eowyn is 6, and Rory is a little over a year old.)

1

Her husband was dead and she knew she would soon follow him. Ignoring the pain and the smell of blood all around her, she continued to crawl onwards, making her way to the river. As a child she had always been afraid of the river, now she knew it was her only hope. She had seen the boat when they had been passing this way just hours before and she could only hope and pray that it would still be there.

Her wish was granted. It still hovered on the banks. With the last of her strength, she got to her feet and made her last few steps to the small wooden boat. She did not know if it was elvish or man made, but for the moment all she could wish was that it would get her most precious treasure to safety. She laid the wrapped package into the boat and then gave it a shove.

The sound of heavy footsteps was heard coming from behind her. She did not have to turn to know what was coming. She saw the large looming shadow and gave one last glance at the boat, to see it slowly making its way down the river. She closed her eyes, hoping that one more wish would be granted. Let my baby live. She stumbled to the ground and knew no more.

***

Aragorn was just leaving his children's play room, after spending most of the morning playing with them, and intended to have a short nap before heading to the conference room. He was only halfway down the corridor when Faramir came running up towards him, completely out of breath, and looking as pale as a ghost. One look into the young stewards eyes was enough to tell Aragorn that something was wrong.

***

Sitting on the throne, Aragorn held the baby gently in his arms. It screamed and struggled, small fists waving in the air. This was not however the wailing of a bad or ill tempered baby, they were the cries of mourning and fear. It did not recognize the smell of the man holding her. Her. It was a girl. To him it looked like a newborn human baby, but it was not. He also knew that this little faunt was about four months old. He laid a kiss on her forehead and tried his best to send waves of healing and comfort toward the babe.

Though the cries lessoned a little, they did not cease completely. It was then that the Queen entered the room. It seemed she had heard of the visitor and after putting the twins down for a nap, she had come at once to the throne room. She opened her arms and Aragorn handed the babe tenderly over to her. At once the babies cries diminished even more, softening to small sobs of distress.

For a moment Aragorn looked on at his wife. She was in her seventh month of pregnancy and looked as radiant as ever. He looked forward to his next child's birth, which he and Arwen both agreed that the next would most likely be a girl. They could sense it. They had not yet decided on a name, however they would before the next princess's birth. It seemed the Valar were bent on helping them cope with the loss of their first child.

Facing Faramir and an Ithilien guardsmen, Aragorn got to the business at hand. “What happened?”

The guardsmen bowed his head and with a confirmation from Faramir to speak, he told his story. “I was just relieved from my duties near Osgilitih's South riverbank. I had decided to have a late meal by the waters, when I spotted a boat coming towards me. It did not appear to have anyone inside. I was weary of a trap or something foul at work and was about to set my bow into the boat to sink it before it reached the docks. When I was just about to strike, I heard a loud wail come from inside. I swam out to the boat and pulled it ashore. When I looked within, I found this baby... not a human baby and knew at once I should call upon Prince Faramir.”

Faramir nodded, now cutting in to finish the story. “I knew you would want to see the babe.”

Aragorn turned to his wife and saw Arwen smiling sadly down at the baby, her arms holding it ever so carefully and more than a bit affectionately. The baby had freed her legs once more and were at least twice the size of any human baby feet and on the tops of them were clumps of fur. The delicate pointed ears were touched gently by Arwen's fingertips.

“A Half --I mean Hobbit babe,” Faramir concluded.

The babies cries returned to its high pitch once more, her face reddening and tears spilled down the chubby cheeks. Arwen held the child towards her face and gave the baby a soft cuddle. Again the baby softened its cries and seemed to finally start falling asleep. It had been a long and hard day for this wee one.

“She's beautiful.” Arwen nodded and, sitting down beside Aragorn, unwrapped the cloth around the little one and took a closer look at the baby.

She was certainly a girl. She was wearing a pink dress, though it seemed certainly not the best of quality, even by hobbit standards. Her skin was a pale color which reminded everyone of Frodo's fair complexion. It almost made the baby look a bit elvish and she appeared to have no physical deformities. For all intense and purposes she looked like any other hobbit child.

Except one thing. Her eyes were the strangest color. They were neither blue, brown, green, black or gray. They looked like the color of lilacs, almost purple. With those eyes and her soft and pale skin she was one of the most beautiful babies Arwen had ever seen. And though Arwen no longer held the light of the eldar within her, she knew that this baby was special. That she had a purpose in this life.

“Her parents will be frantic in searching for this child,” Aragorn replied, having risen and now stood over his wife and smiled down at the baby. He had never seen such a beautiful child. “Faramir, you will take a garrison of men and begin a search on foot by the river for them. Leave no stone, no woods, no hill unsearched. Send several men to the nearest villages and see if any family of hobbits visiting this area are about.”

Faramir and the guardsmen bowed and quickly made their way out of the throne room. Aragorn looked over the baby and shook his head filled with worry and concern. “Her parents will be beside themselves in fright over losing this one. We will have to reunite you with them as quickly as possible, right precious?” Aragorn was relieved to see the baby had drifted off to sleep. But of course, who would not fall asleep in his wife's arms.

Arwen let out a sob and she turned to face her husband. Seeing her sadness, Aragorn placed one of his arms around her shoulders. “Arwen? Beloved, what is it?”

Arwen shook her head and regaining her composure she closed her eyes, allowing the vision to come to her. When it was over, tears fell down her cheeks.

“Arwen?”

“I sense they are not living.”

Aragorn only looked on at her, shaking his head. “You could be wrong.”

“I am certain.”

He continued to stare at his wife in confusion. Arwen only held the baby closer in her arms, almost as if trying to shield the small one from any more anguish and pain. “I just know, Elessar. She is alone.”

“I don't understand.”

“I don't either. I just--know. There is something else. I don't think she is all hobbit. I see the light of the eldar is within her. And you should also know she has--limited senses.”

Aragorn was confused even more by this proclamation, as Arwen placed the baby in his arms. She took both her hands and clapped once, loudly, next to the babies ears. Aragorn was astonished when the baby did not respond to the sound. Giving the child back, Aragorn copied Arwen's hand, trying to make an even louder sound. The baby didn't move nor make any response to the loud sound. Any other baby would be screaming in terror at the noise.

Aragorn stared on in horror; the baby was deaf.

***

Frodo and Sam rode quickly towards Minas Tirith. Frodo had just put Bilbo and Prim down for a nap and sent the older children out to play when an Gondorian messenger arrived summoning Lord Frodo and Lord Samwise to the King.

Still unaccustomed to being addressed as a Lord, Sam snorted in amusement and then hurried down to Pip and Merry and asked if Estella and Di could look after the children while he and Frodo went to find out what had happened. As soon as Frodo had brought out the ponies and had them saddled, they made their way quickly to the white city.

***

It was nearing dusk when Sam and Frodo finally made it to the citadel. As Frodo and Sam entered the great hall, they found a small audience awaiting them. Several of the King's ambassador's and advisor's were present. At the end of the hall was Aragorn and the Queen. She was holding something in her arms, though Frodo couldn't quite make out what it was exactly.

Reaching Aragorn, Frodo wasn't sure whether to bow or hug the King. Aragorn already made the decision for him. He rose before Frodo, then knelt before the hobbit and gave Frodo a warm embrace, which was given equally to Sam.

To Frodo and Sam it was the gesture of a dear friend, a brothers welcome. To others it was a declaration of high esteem the King held these two in honor.

“My little brothers.”

Frodo smiled at Aragorn, then nodded, returning to the reason why they had been summoned. “What has happened? The Shire?”

Aragorn smiled, shaking his head. “No, all is well in the Shire. It is forever green and at peace. No, I am afraid it is something else altogether. As of right now, we are uncertain of what exactly has happened.”

And so Aragorn told Frodo and Sam about a small baby being found in a boat set adrift. Aragorn also informed Frodo that the baby was not human, but a hobbit and not completely hobbit. She was part elvish. Frodo stared at Aragorn in wonder. Arwen came forward and handed the baby into Frodo‘s arms.

Frodo stared down at the very light bundle in complete wonder and joy. Samwise moved forward and removed the cloth to reveal a pale face with rosy red cheeks and puffed up lips. Her skin reminded Sam at once of Frodo's skin color, soft and milky white. Her ears were delicate and pointed. She appeared perfectly unharmed and had all ten fingers and ten toes. Frodo counted them and Sam double checked just to make sure.

“She's beautiful,” Frodo whispered. His heart melting at the sight of the baby. A small hand jerked and opened and Sam slid his finger into it. The hand snapped closed and held on tight.

“And quite the grip. This one will be able to handle herself if some tween tries to get uppity with her.”

Frodo laughed and looked on at the baby to see two pair of eyes open. Frodo gasped at the color of them and just like the one holding her, the baby seemed to stop and stare equally back at the pair of blue eyes. For a moment all was still and Frodo smiled.

Samwise seemed completely smitten himself and Frodo handed the baby into his arms. Sam rocked the baby slightly and at once began to speak softly to her. “Oh my, you really are a pretty thing. Course you know that, don't you?”

Frodo turned to Aragorn and saw the expression's on his and Arwen's face turn from joy to sadness. “What is it?”

Aragorn swallowed and told them. “She cannot hear. She’s deaf.”

Sam paused and glanced at Aragorn, and then turned back to the baby, and continued right on talking as if nothing had been said. “...and before long you’ll be running along fields looking for wild mushrooms to eat.”

“Sam--” Aragorn started to speak, however Sam shrugged and looked at his King with a smile.

“I heard you, Sir. Pardon me for saying so, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't speak to the child. Remember Ruby Proudfeet, Frodo me dear? She was only a year old when she got the terrible fever. It almost took her life it did, but it didn't. It however damaged her hearing and she was made deaf.”

Frodo smiled as the face of a simple plain hobbit girl with the twinkle in her eye came to him. “I remember her. She was such a sweet and kind girl... and very clever.”

Aragorn looked at them in surprise, listening to a story of another child who would never hear.

“Ruby's parents refused to allow anyone to pity her. They taught her to read lips and in time, she could do it very well. She could tell you what someone was saying nearly two hundred feet away.” Both Sam and Frodo nodded proudly. “Sometimes I think she could understand things even better then some folk who could hear. She's married now to a Hardbottle and has five little ones. They are all quite healthy and they can all hear quite well and they can read lips.”

Aragorn and Arwen both laughed. The rest of the people in the room lit up with smiles. Trust a hobbit to take no nonsense and make a tragedy into a challenge instead.

Frodo and Sam both did not look surprised when Aragorn spoke his intent. “I know it's short notice and I do realize you have already ten little ones at home but it would only be until we found her parents or any kin--” Aragron wasn't allowed to finish.

“We will take her,” Frodo replied with a firm nod to Sam who also nodded in agreement. Aragorn leaned back in his chair, feeling a weight of sadness lift from his shoulders.

“Thank you. Several ladies have stepped forward willing to care for the--baby, however I felt since she was partially hobbit, we should try to keep her with her kin, as we all know hobbit babies are quite different to human babies.”

Frodo and Sam did not disagree.

***

It was not until Frodo and Sam were on their way back home, and through the gates, that Frodo turned to Sam. “Sam--”

He was about to speak but Sam only cut Frodo off. “Pardon me, Frodo, me dear, but I know what you’re going to say. I stand by our decision. Just another to love.”

“It may only be for a few weeks, a month at the most,” Frodo replied, looking down at the sleeping baby all wrapped up in the specially created knapsack, courtesy of Sam's creative ingenuity.

When Bilbo was just a baby, Frodo had a desire to go to market, but did not want to leave his young son alone. Sam, with the help of Estella, created the baby carrier. It was really just a back pack, redesigned to be worn in the front, with looped straps that secured over the wearers neck and waist so the baby was held in place. Already, Frodo seemed to hold a hint of sadness in his voice.

Could one get attached to a baby that quickly, Sam wondered. Maybe not for others, but for Frodo it took only a few seconds holding and seeing the baby girl to capture his heart.

“The children?”

“They will adore her.”

“Should we give her a name?”

Sam shrugged his shoulders. “Well, I think calling her 'hey you' would be rather impolite, I'd say.”

Frodo smiled at his Sam. He was always so strong, so reliable, so loving. Always willing to take what ever life sent at them with no regrets and no looking back.

“Tomorrow we shall give her name.”

***

The crib was brought out from the storage room, however bedroom rearranging would have to wait until morning, as the hour was late and waking the other children seemed rather silly. Putting the crib at the end of the bed, Frodo and Sam made up the bed and set the little one down gently. The baby never made a peep, having slept her entire journey and continued to dream on in what ever dreams babies had.

Sam changed into his night clothes and was in bed in a few moments. Frodo had then changed, but instead of getting into bed, he took to standing over the crib and seemed fixated on the small one. Sam could see the love in those blue eyes quite clearly.

Sam stared at the two for a long moment, locking in this precious memory forever in his mind. It seemed so natural for Frodo to become an instant father. But then, even when Frodo was young, he use to take to watching the other smaller children in Brandy Hall. Frodo had also taken to caring for others when he moved to Bag end. Especially to one curious and yet shy gardener's son.

“Can you imagine, Sam, going through life not being able to hear?”

Sam got out of the bed and moved to his lover, placing his arms gently around Frodo's waist. “She can still see and smell.”

“Ruby never quite spoke fluently when she grew up, but she still managed a few words to communicate her needs. Sam... she was a year old before she became deaf. How will we teach this one to even understand what we say?”

Sam smiled and shrugged. “Let's not be worrying none about what tomorrow will bring, me dear. All she needs is to be fed, changed, washed and loved. I think we can provide her with that. The rest will all come in time.”

As Frodo got into bed, he still couldn't help but worry about the small child. “And she is part elvish and her eyes... She's different, but in a good way. Special.”

“That she is.”

As Frodo laid his head against Sam's shoulder, Frodo sighed softly. “Part elvish and part hobbit. She won't have a easy life growing up. Being deaf and being half of something. I hate thinking how cruel people can be, Sam. What happens if--”

Sam did not point out to Frodo that it really wasn't their concern. After all, her parents would be found and that would be the end of it. Instead, Sam replied, “She's a survivor, Mr. Frodo, make no mistake about that. She'll be fine.”

Frodo wasn't so sure.

2

Morning came all too quickly. Thankfully, Estella and Di came up early and began to make breakfast for the little ones, so Frodo and Sam could sleep in. By second breakfast, however, the older children were curious to see what the King wanted.

***

They were surrounded, on the verge of an attack and Frodo couldn't hold back the smile on his lips. Sam had cracked one eye open and then snuggled closer to his lover. He whispered into his Frodo’s ear, “I think we’re outnumbered.”

Frodo giggled and both opened their eyes and looked on at the nine gatherers, who were staring down at the crib, staring at it with great curiosity.

Elanor looked up and seeing her father was awake, she grinned. “Morning Da. Morning Uncle Frodo. Who is this?” she asked.

Frodo lad laughed at his sister and quickly chipped in. “A baby, I should think.”

“I know that, silly. What I mean is, who is it and why is it here?”

Sam grinned holding Frodo's hand in his own. “All explanations will have to wait. Your Uncle Frodo and I need to get washed and dressed and get something to eat.” Sam then looked at the baby and grinned more. “And I think our house guest will be waking up soon demanding her breakfast too. Now out!”

The children all dashed away, save Primula who was shaking her head at the baby. Sam scooped her up into his arms and smiled at his youngest daughter. “What's the matter Prim?”

Primrose only glanced at her father and shrugged. “New sister?”

Sam nodded, while Frodo looked on at Sam with a concerned look. Frodo had been dreading this moment, wondering if the new one would be as easily accepted as Bilbo's birth. What if---this time it was one too many for the other children to handle?

Primrose laughed and clapped her hands. “Weeee! Can I share my room with her?”

Sam kissed her brow and nodded. “You wouldn't mind having an extra in your room? You would have to share... toys, and everything. Not including being woken at night from her crying. She won't always be sleeping all through the night.”

Primrose seemed to think that over and then finally she nodded. “Yes, I'm sure.” Prim then faced Uncle Frodo and smiled at him. “Now I won't be so lonely.” And with that, Prim climbed out of her father's arms and raced out of the room.

Frodo and Sam stared at each other with bemused smiled on their faces. “See, I told you.”

***

It was only after a quick washing and putting on some clothes that the new baby finally woke and with it she burst out her lungs to inform everyone she was hungry. Washing and changing the babies diaper, Frodo and Sam quickly hurried to the kitchen and were grateful to see food waiting for them all.

Estella didn't seem surprised to see the baby and held out a small bottle with milk in it. Frodo happily sat down in a chair and holding the new baby in his arms began to feed her. “How did you know?”

Estella only chuckled watching Frodo feed the baby. “As if once those younglings saw that little one they weren't going to be telling everyone they see, including me and Di. Well, hello little one...”

Estella stopped when the babies eyes opened revealing her rare feature. Estella blinked. “My goodness, look at those eyes.”

Frodo paused to look at her, wondering if Estella would follow pursuit like many other hobbits would. Although Hobbits were peaceful and loving, they didn't take to changes well. Yet, when Estella clicked her tongue and smiled, Frodo worries vanished. “Looks like Master Frodo will have some competition for the best eyes contest.”

Frodo chuckled and finished feeding the baby. When a plate of food was presented to him, and while Estella burped the baby, and much like the little one he had just fed, he polished it down in record time. It was about an hour later that the children were all sitting on the grass, gathered around a large pine tree. Frodo sat on a blanket and set the baby down on his lap. For a long time Frodo and Sam just stared at the children not sure where to begin.

After a moment of silence, Frodo worked up the courage to tell this one's tale. Every one of the children seemed saddened at the thought of a baby being abandoned or left alone, especially in a sea of water. Frodo watched quietly as Bilbo crawled towards the child. He was walking now, but was still prone to crawling. He seemed intent on doing both as much as he could. Looking at the baby, Frodo watched as a small frown came to Bilbo's face.

“Poor baby,” replied Elanor.

“All alone...” cried Goldilocks.

Merry and Pip lad were already weeping.

They also told them that the baby could not hear and that was when all the children were brought to tears.

“Now, I hope I can count on all of you. This little one will need lots of help and I will need each of you to do your part.”

All the children nodded and voiced agreements. Except Bilbo, who had turned away from the baby and put his arms around himself. When Bilbo turned his head back to look at the baby, he stuck his tongue out at her. Frodo swallowed. Well, nine out of ten wasn't bad. It seemed Bilbo did not like the idea of another baby in the household.

“She will only be staying a few weeks, perhaps a month or two. Just until we find her parents or kin.”

It was then that Bilbo unfolded his arms and seemed less annoyed. Frodo relaxed visibly.

“So what is her name?” asked Frodo lad.

Frodo and Sam glanced at each other and then turned back to the children. “We don't know. But perhaps for now we can give her one? Together as a family?”

Bilbo didn't miss a beat and replied harshly, “Poo Poo face.”

Sam and Frodo glared down at Bilbo, who avoided looking at them and instead found something interesting in the grass to play with. That was when the children started shouting names.

“Pearl?”

“Lilac? Her eyes remind me of lilacs.”

“Pena?”

“Flower!” replied a happy Daisy.

Sitting in the grass near the children was Star, the cat. She was staring at the children and had even approached the baby to get a good look at the house guest. Seeming to meet her approval, Star then laid down and decided on an early nap. In the distance, Sam and Frodo saw Merry and Pip with their wives and children coming to join them. Moments later after retelling of the story, they took turns helping out with names.

“Grace?”

“Sky?”

“Jewel.”

“Ruby?”

“Lia.”

Frodo was beginning to remember how hard it was to name his own child as the list of names continued. Not even fifteen minutes later, Frodo and Sam both waved to see Legolas and Gimli coming through the forest. They had heard the news apparently and quietly mingled with everyone else.

Legolas peered at the baby with a great deal of interest. Frodo did not miss Gimli whispering to his once enemy and now closest friend in Middle-Earth. “Don't even think it, laddie.”

Legolas blushed, but said nothing. The list of names continued.

“Matilda.”

“Emma?”

“Lobelia.”

Frodo would not forget who said that name. Bilbo was not being subtle in what he thought of the new arrival.

“Penelope.”

“Asta.”

“Belle.”

Frodo paused at the last name and turned to Di with a smile. “What was that?”

“Belle. Belladonna.”

The name was instantly liked by all, save one, Bilbo. The baby would from then on be called Belladonna, Belle for short. Which meant beautiful, and that fit this one to a tee. As the children all went off to play and Sam went to put Prim and Bilbo (Who didn't want to go. He wanted to stay with Ada!) down for a nap.

Taking Belle into his arms, Frodo looked at Legolas and Gimli with growing concern in his eyes. “Have they heard anything?”

“Not yet. Fear not, Prince Faramir is being very thorough not to miss any area of land. And anyone they meet are being questioned and spread the news of a lost baby.”

Frodo sighed worriedly, but then smiled when the small one opened her eyes and made several low slurping sounds. Frodo tickled her under the chin and Belle seemed almost to smile at the playful touch.

“Are you all right, Frodo?” asked Merry.

Merry had joined Frodo's side and looked down at the baby sadly. “She is a darling, isn't she. Hello Belle.”

Frodo paused only a moment before handing the baby into Merry‘s arms. Estella, a moment later, joined her husband and looked reflectively at little Belle. Frodo looked at the two with a sad smile. Pippin and Di had two children and seemed quite content with the two offspring they had.

Merry and Estella also had two children, a daughter they named Eowyn and a son Rory. They had tried many times since the birth of Rory to have more. Early spring, Estella had finally gotten pregnant for the third time, but then she had miscarried.

The grief was even felt more deeply, when it was revealed that Estella had been carrying twins.

Frodo knew that Merry and Estella loved little Eowyn and Rory with all of their hearts, but they were growing fast and both wanted them to have more babies.

Both Merry and Estella were only children and though they were loved by there own parents, they wanted very much to fill their lives with as many offspring as they could have. It was one of the reasons why Estella was always willing to watch the children for Frodo and Sam. It seemed, she was trying to fill the void of her lost twins.

“You're right, she is beautiful,” replied Merry to his wife. She must have told Merry all about the baby. Now they stared down at her fondly. When the others had departed, Frodo took Belle to a quiet area in the garden. Sam had made a small swing on the oak tree and proceeded to swing slowly back and forth, his eyes never straying from the small one's face.

“Frodo.”

Frodo looked up and smiled at Legolas. Gimli was with the other children and was obviously showing them how he took out several ORC's during The Great War.

“Yes, Legolas?”

“I was informed that the baby... I mean Belle cannot hear.”

“Yes.”

“I wanted to propose something that I thought might help with communicating with her.”

Frodo nodded, listening.

“It is most uncommon, even among humans to find one unable to hear. However, even within the elves it has occurred that one may not be graced with hearing or even speaking. I knew an elf, named Lista who could not speak. He lived in Mirkwood forest well into the second age then finally went into the west. Although, he could not speak, he did develop a language that was used by many to communicate with him.”

Now this had Frodo's curiosity. “How?”

“He created something he called 'sign language.' It is signals he created with the use of his hands.”

Frodo shrugged in confusion. “Hands? How does one communicate with their hands?”

Legolas smiled and demonstrated. He raised his hands and gestured to his eye and then pointed at his ear. “What did I say?” he asked.

Frodo shook his head and Legolas repeated the signal. Frodo watched and then smiled. “I hear?”

Legolas grinned and Frodo grew excited. “Legolas, will you teach me... sign language?”

The elf stood even taller if that was possible and Frodo could see the clear delight in the elf's eyes. “Not all signals are as easy, but I will teach you. Each and everyone of them and then you can teach Belle.”

As the days followed, Legolas soon learned that Frodo was not his only pupil. Sam and the other children all joined in on the lessons as well as Merry and Pippin and their wives.

***

The days passed slowly, while Frodo and Sam soon found themselves consumed with how to take care of the lost baby. They also learned that she was not like most hobbit children and was a bit fussy at times in what she was going to eat. Fortunately, for Primrose's sake, Belle appeared to sleep most of the night without waking up and crying and if she did, a quick change of the diaper and a midnight snack often sent her back into a contented sleep. It was made apparent to everyone that Frodo was growing more and more attached to the new one. He would often sigh wistfully and hold her for many long hours.

Though everyone in the house seemed to find this rather sweet, Bilbo seemed to be disturbed about it. Many a time, Frodo would be just getting Belle settled in for a nap when Bilbo would try hard to push Belle out of the way and stake his claim in his Ada's arms.

At first, Frodo was quite patient and tried to explain to Bilbo that he was no longer a baby that required constant holding. This however seemed to make matters worse. Bilbo soon took to throwing temper tantrums and acting more babyish then Belle.

The final straw came one morning when Frodo found Bilbo had Little Merry and Pippin Lad pull out his crib from the storage room and place it by his bed and then Bilbo set to sleeping in it.

“I will have to talk to him. I just really don't know how I will explain this to Bilbo properly. I do not understand why he is acting this way--”

“Don't you?” replied Estella. She had come to help Frodo with the washing and making the evening supper. Eowyn and Rory were sitting nearby on the floor playing with several large wooden blocks. “He was the baby, and now he is not the baby. Someone has stepped in and taken his place.”

“That's ridiculous...” started Frodo and then paused to think about it. “Oh dear.”

“Indeed. For the longest time, he was number one... Now his needs must come after the new baby.”

Frodo sadly placed his head on the table with his arms around his head. “I am so stupid. Why didn't I see this coming?”

“Because that baby has you wrapped around her fingers, that is why. And I can see why that is. She is such a sweet little darling.”

Estella sadly turned to the stove and continued to stir the soup. “Mer and I have been trying for months to try to conceive. I guess, the powers that be have decided two children is enough.”

Rising to his feet, Frodo put his arm gently on her shoulder. A sob escaped her lips and Estella soon was in Frodo's arms crying.

“You may yet have more.” ,replied Frodo. “You must not give up.”

Estella composed herself and shrugged at in acceptance. “I know, I'm sorry. I shouldn't have broken down like that.” Seeing Eowyn and little Rory’s concerned expression she patted them softly on the head. Eowyn and Rory returned to playing with the blocks.

“It is just, I was four months along and everything seemed fine. Then, while in Rohan, one night I had such pain in my stomach and then... they were just gone. Gone.”

“I'm sorry, Ella.”

Estella only sobbed and turning away, she wiped away the tears in her eyes and checked the soup. All was ready. Getting her composure, she hurried out the door to call the children inside.

***

Two weeks passed and then just after luncheon Faramir arrived on his horse. In the distance, Frodo could see several guards pulling along a wagon. It was being taken to Gondor. Inside Frodo could see two figures all covered up in a white sheets. One was much taller than the other.

Frodo swallowed and waited for Faramir to speak. Reaching Frodo, he did not try to hide the tears and sorrow on his face. “We found them. They were killed--by a party of orcs. My men managed to track down the orcs and destroyed them. I will take the bodies to the King and see if we can find some way of identifying them. We have sent word to the Shire and to Bree. Hopefully, in the next few weeks, we will be able to find out who they were and if they have any living kin. It appears the father was an elf and the mother--a young female hobbit.”

***

Frodo sat quietly in the den, holding Belle in his arms. Tears dropped from his cheeks and he clutched to Belle with a fierce expression of resolve. Sam had thanked Faramir for the news and informed him he and Merry would be along to see to the arrangements of the couple.

After Faramir left to head to Minas Tirith, he made his way to Frodo. For a long time, Sam just stood in the doorway watching Frodo and the baby. He could feel the sorrow and grief pouring off his lover’s body. Sam remembered that pain. Many years ago, when a young orphan lad came to live with Master Bilbo at Bag End. Loss, such loss.

“It isn't right... It's not fair, Sam.”

Sam moved behind his lover and gently placed his arms around Frodo's neck. He leaned his head on Frodo's shoulder.

“Losing one parent is tragic enough, but to lose both... No one knows the kind of pain and loss unless they too know what it is like. You do.”

Frodo let the tears fall. “Merry's parents, Uncle Saradoc and Aunt Esmeralda were wonderful to me. They were so kind and loving, but it wasn't the same. I always felt left out, abandoned... alone. A burden to everyone around me. The sad little orphan that belonged to no one.. .unwanted.”

Sam felt the tears come to his eyes, but pushed them back. He rose and moved to stand in front of Frodo and the baby. “She won't be alone, nor will she be an orphan.”

Frodo looked up at Sam confused, then after a moment he understood. “Oh, Sam. Do you mean it? Can we keep her?”

Sam laughed. “I think that decision was made when we first laid our eyes on this wee one.”

Frodo laughed lightly, then sadly he stared at Belle. “She may yet have kin that may want her.”

Sam nodded. “Maybe, it may take years to find them. In the meantime, she’s ours. Our baby, our own.”

Frodo turned up his head and Sam bent down and their lips touched.

***

Everyone took the news well, all except Bilbo. Once he heard Belle was here to stay, he ran off as fast as his feet could carry him. The little toddler didn’t even look back as he cried and sobbed disappearing into the forest.

Frodo had turned to Sam and with a sad expression on his face, handed Belle to Sam and went after his young son.

He found Bilbo under the willow tree, crying as if his poor heart was breaking in half. Frodo felt his own heart squeeze sadly. He hadn’t expected it would be so traumatizing to his son. He had hoped, given time, Bilbo would grow attached to the new baby, instead the green eyed monster had his son wrapped tightly within its claws.

Sitting down beside Bilbo, Frodo pulled a small dandelion from the grass and began to pull its stems out one by one. Frodo waited for Bilbo to speak and found he didn't have to wait long.

“I'm the baby. You're my Ada! Mine! Not hers!”

Frodo looked down at his son and saw hot tears falling down his cheeks. “You don't wuv me anymore!”

Frodo shook his head, dropping the dandelion and pulling Bilbo into his arms. Stroking Bilbo's back, Frodo waited until he quieted a bit before speaking. “Bilbo, love, you are my baby. You will always be my baby. I love you, how could I not love you? You are my everything. Don’t you know that? But, dearest... I also love your Papa Sam, and Elanor, Frodo-lad... Merry and Pippin... Goldie, Hammie, Daisy, Rose and Prim. They’re all my babies. You’re all so different and yet I love you all, equally. No one is above the other. Don‘t you see my heart is eager to love all that come into my life.”

“You luv Belle more. Hold her all time--”

Frodo grinned, shaking his head in frustration, how could he get through to him. And then it came to him. “That's because she's a baby, like you were. Your growing up now. You can feed yourself, she can't. You can walk and talk. She can’t do any of those things. She's helpless and more importantly she’s all alone. Can't you find it in your heart to try to like her, just a little bit?”

Bilbo sat on Frodo's lap and, now that he had stopped crying, was staring down at the dandelion on the ground. He picked it up and handed it back to Frodo.

“I wuv you, Ada.”

“I love you too, Bilbo dear.”

Frodo kissed Bilbo's forehead and took the flower in his hand. “Belle needs not just Papa Sam and me, she also needs you and all the other children.”

Bilbo stared at his father, completely dumbstruck by this revelation. “She needs me?”

“Yes. You get to teach her all the things that you already know. Like your numbers and Abc's. And most of all, she’ll look to you to protect her and watch out for her. She cannot hear my dear Bilbo. Someday, she may be right in the midst of danger and not even realize it. It will be up to you to keep her out of danger. Because you will be her big brother?”

Bilbo sat still for a long time, and then slowly, he rubbed his eyes and smiled lightly. “She is my baby?”

“Yes, she’s your baby. Our baby.”

And thankfully, from that day forward, Bilbo showered Belle not only with his love, but his protection.

***

Aragorn looked over the bodies carefully. They had been washed and wrapped in white cloth. The Orcs had done their work. The male elf with dark long hair had been pierced by many arrows. A sword had been found in his hand with many slayed Orcs lying dead around him. He had not gone down without a fight. Other than a large gash on his forehead, he was in one piece, which surprised Aragorn, as most Orcs often found the flesh of Elf and human appetizing. It appeared the attack had been a surprise to both the party of Orcs and to the traveling elf and hobbit.

What exactly had transpired would never be fully known. The female hobbit had been found near the river. A large arrow had been sticking in her back. Other than that and a gash on her legs and neck, she was untouched. It seemed she lived only long enough to set her baby into the river before meeting her doom.

Aragorn felt the tears rise in his eyes, two senseless deaths. They had searched for any identification on the bodies, however all that they found was the sword the elf held in his hand and a ring on the female hobbits hand. Although the blade of the sword was elvish made, it held no identifying marks. The ring was just a simple silver band.

Who were they? How had they come to be joined? What led them from the safety of their own homes and placed them on a course of death? A mystery that needed solving. Standing aside, Aragorn allowed Legolas to come forward and stare down at the figure. His eyes traced over the male elf slowly, making certain to lock in every detail and then look back into his past for some memory of this elf.

Aragorn held little hope that Legolas would recognize this elf, however since Legolas had lived over a thousand years, Aragorn wanted to at least give it a try. After what seemed like a long time, Legolas turned to Aragorn and shook his head.

“I do not have any memory of him. However, from the looks of his clothing and such, I would say he is either from Imladris or had lived near by.”

Aragorn nodded sadly. “Elrohir and Elladan will be coming in a few weeks. Perhaps they will recognize him...”

Taking his leave, Legolas bowed to the two hobbits standing by the doorway. Aragorn turned to Merry and Sam and beckoned them forth. Merry bit his lip and with Sam close to his side, he walked over to the female hobbit and looked down at her. Samwise moved to Aragorn and stared at the woman for a long time. Neither showed any signs of recognizing her. Aragorn noticed a small shadow standing in the corner and smiled. Pippin had come along but didn't seem ready yet to come forward.

Although Pippin had seen many deaths during the War of the Ring, to see the death of a hobbit seemed a bit too disturbing for him.

“Pippin?” Aragorn offered his hand and Pippin finally took a breath and took a few steps forward, taking the King‘s hand into his own. Then Pippin looked down at the remains of the Hobbit woman.

A sudden gasp filled the room and then Pippin released Aragorn's hand and fled from the house of healing.

***

Merry reached Pippin first, who hadn't gotten too far, Pippin had just made it to the courtyard when he fell to the ground. Putting one arm around his friend and the other to stroke Pippin's back, Merry tried his best to sooth the trembling hobbit.

“Pippin, Pip. I’m here. Everything is going to be alright. Take slow deep breaths.”

Aragorn and Sam arrived moments later. Sitting Pippin down on the bench, Aragorn kneeled to his Guard of the Citadel. “Pippin?”

When Pippin's green eyes came up filled with tears, Aragorn felt consumed with guilt. He had asked the hobbits to come and see the female hobbit. It was his hope that even if they did not recognize her they could at least, from her type of clothing and complexion, identify where in Hobbiton she may had lived. Unfortunately, it seemed Pippin did know of the hobbit, with these results. He would never wish any pain upon these four hobbits. They had endured and already been through much. He also loved them all dearly, as if they were of his own blood.

Why, Aragorn wondered, could not his friends spend the rest of their lives living in blissful peace and harmony. “I'm sorry, my dear little brother.”

Recovering slightly and gaining some color in his cheeks, Pippin nodded slowly at his King and friend. “Tis not your fault Aragorn. I am sorry the way I acted, I should be used to seeing... death by now.”

“Death of Orcs or men yes, but not of your own kind.”

Pippin shrugged and then taking a deep breath and getting an encouraging smile from Merry, he spoke. “I know her. Although, it has been a long time since... her name is Asphodel Blower. Her family lives just outside of the Shire. The village of Coramay. I do not know how she came to be outside of Hobbiton, so far away from home.”

Aragorn rose to his feet and called to his guard to fetch Faramir. A half an hour later, Faramir arrived with two guards.

“I will need need a messenger to be sent at once to Hobbiton. I will write a letter to the Blower family--”

It was then that Pippin pulled on Aragorn's vest. Pausing, Aragorn turned to Pippin to see the wide green eyes looking up at him with determination. “Let me go. I know the Blower family. They are very wealthy but rather--stingy to strangers and outsiders. I will bring them the news of their daughter's death and will let them know about the baby.”

“Are you sure, Pippin?” Aragorn bent down once again and Pippin looked to Sam and Merry and then turned to Aragorn with his chin held high.

“Yes.”

Aragorn wrote a sympathetic letter to the family of Blowers and informed Pippin that as soon as they heard word they would have their daughter and husband returned to the Shire for burial arrangements.

Two days later, Pippin and Merry were packed and ready to make the journey to the Shire. Frodo and Sam watched as Merry brought out his own pony all the while, Estella stared at her husband. For a moment Frodo thought he saw weariness in her eyes as if she was about to speak and then at the last minute she hugged Merry and waved to Pippin instead.

Di and Estella waved again as the two departed. Sam also waved and then turned to Frodo to find that he had already gone back into the smial.

When Sam ventured into their home he found Frodo in the living room. But he wasn't alone. Bilbo lay sleeping on one side of Frodo and Belle lay sleeping in the other. Taking a seat beside them, Sam took out his pipe and old toby. After a few moments, he looked at Frodo to see his lover's eyes were filled with tears.

Frodo spoke and Sam was quite taken back at the cold tone he used. “I won't give her up. I won't. She's mine. My daughter!”

“That not be our decision, Frodo me dear. She has kin, that is clear and it is only right she be returned to them.”

Sam paused and when Frodo looked at him, he could see the anger within them.

“Right? What right have they to take my Belle? Tell me, what drove Asphodel from the Shire in the first place? Where were her kin and family? And that elf? Who is he? Where did he come from? Was he Asphodel's husband or just a friend? Where were they heading? What brought them all to those woods where they met their end? And who is responsible for it? No, I tell you. I shall not give her over to anyone until all these questions are answered.”

When they lay in bed that night, Sam held Frodo gently in his arms, stroking his cheek and chest softly with his fingertips. Just as sleep was starting to overcome him, Frodo spoke one last time in a soft toned voice that seemed to believe that he had indeed lost the one he had come to cherish.

“I love her, Sam. I love her as my very own. I just can't--I can't.” Then Frodo broke down and wept. Sam said nothing, and when Frodo fell into a deep but restless sleep, he slowly crept from his bed.

When Sam arrived in his youngest daughter's bedroom, he found to his surprise that Belle and Prim were not alone in the room. Bilbo had somehow made his way in and now lay sleeping next to Belle. His arm thrown protectively around her. When Sam climbed back into his bed, his eyes were red and filled with his own tears.

It finally hit him, that they were about to lose Belle, forever.

***

Frodo sent the children out to play, giving each of them a kiss and hug. When Bilbo seemed adamant to stay with his Ada and baby sister, Frodo gave him a gentle swat on the butt.

“Go! Play with your brothers and sisters. Summer has come and it will not stay for long. Go!”

Laughing in pure joy, Bilbo hurried out the door to join his siblings. Frodo watched them for a few moments and then glanced into the garden to see Sam was working on trimming the rose bushes. Staring at Sam, Frodo couldn't help but be thankful for the second chance he and Sam had been given. He truly was blessed.

When the cries rang out, Frodo quickly got the baby bottle. Belle had just finished her bottle of warm milk and was being rocked back to sleep when a visitor arrived.

“Stella. Welcome my dear. I thought you and Di were going berry picking with the little ones today?”

“I let Di go with the others. I just didn't feel like going today.”

Sensing something was amiss, Frodo placed Belle back in her crib and went to the kitchen. A few minutes later, Stella sat at the table drinking a cup of tea as Frodo began preparing the luncheon meal. An Apple crumb pie and fresh bread rolls would go well afterward. Frodo already had the chickens roasting in the oven and the potatoes boiling. He now settled down at the table with Estella and began to shell out the peas into a bowl.

“Missing Mer already?”

“That obvious?”

“You seemed reluctant to see him go to the Shire. You could have gone with them. I am sure Pippin and Merry wouldn't have minded...”

Estella only sipped at her tea. Seeing the worry and fear in her eyes, Frodo put down the peas and, helping her to put the tea cup down, took her hands into his own.

“What is it dear Stella? Something is obviously worrying you. I can see it in your eyes and I know you did not come up here today to help with the children, as I know I have most everything under control.”

Estella shrugged and instead replied, “How will you give her up? It must be tearing you apart. To fall in love with such a sweet little thing and then be forced to surrender it?”

Swallowing, Frodo let go of her hands and returned to shelling the peas from the pods. “I don't know. I only know that I have indeed come to love my little Belle. It won't be easy-- I think--I think my heart shall break when I have to give her--” Frodo stopped and brushed away the tear in his eyes and tried to concentrate with his current labor.

Estella sighed softly and then, moving forward, she began to help Frodo with the pea pods. Finally, after a long time of silence, Estella spoke. “I--I think I am with child.”

Frodo stopped what he was doing and looked up at Estella. Instead of seeing happiness all Frodo could see was fear.

“What if I lose this one like... before. Frodo, I'm scared. I don't think I will be able to go on if... if--”

Without a word Frodo got to his feet and left the room. Wiping at her eyes, Estella waited patiently for his return and when he did she saw he held something in his hand. He handed her the star of Elendil.

“Frodo, no I can't--”

“You can and will. It will be a light for you, in dark places... when all other lights go out.”

Estella stared at the phial, it looked like just a simple crystal glass with water within it. Then it began to glow and Estella felt the fear and sadness disappear and in its place, she felt renewed hope. When Estella got ready to leave she took Frodo into her arms and hugged him tight. “No matter what happens, after--I will give this back to you, Frodo dear.”

After she was gone, Frodo sat down at the table and was just about to return to shelling the peas when pain and grief over came him. Sam heard the sobs and hurried inside to find Frodo on the floor weeping. No matter how hard he tried, Sam was unable to bring Frodo any comfort.

For the next three days Frodo remained in his bedroom refusing to come out. Even Sam was refused entrance. He took neither food or water and growing with concern, Sam sent for Aragorn.

It was Arwen however who came, even with her nearing the end of her pregnancy, she came to try and bring Frodo what consolation she could. She stepped into the smial and passed Sam and the children. She entered the bedroom and closed the door behind her.

It seemed forever and a day when Arwen came back out of that room. She looked into the faces of Sam and the children to see the love and concern in their eyes. Little Bilbo offered the Queen a rose. Arwen bent down and gave Bilbo a kiss on the cheek and took the rose into her hand.

Facing Samwise, Arwen nodded at the simple gardener who was anything but simple.

“Will Frodo be all right my lady?”

“Giving up something that you love is never easy my dear Samwise. Fear not, Frodo has come to accept what is to come.”

Indeed, that night Frodo finally ventured out of his room and ate supper with the family. Though Frodo seemed reconciled and rejoining the family he loved, everyone could see the sadness in his eyes.

And when Belle cried that night in her crib, it was Sam, not Frodo, who went to her. Sam did the best he could to appease the small one, however Belle wailed and cried all the louder. It was as if she seemed to sense that something was wrong and wanted only one to come to her. That one did not come.

Frodo remained in his bed, awake with his eyes sealed shut and his hands over his ears. Tears fell down his cheeks, and though in his heart Frodo could still hear the baby crying, he did not move from his bed.

He was letting Belle go.

***

The days seemed to pass slowly, and with each sound Frodo heard outside the smial, it caused him great anxiety and melancholy. Any day now Pippin would return with Merry, probably with Asphodel's family, to take Belle away. The images in his mind of handing the little girl over to them tore at his very soul.

Although Frodo sat and ate with Sam and the children at each meal, he found his appetite sorely lacking. He had to struggle to eat and every morsel he swallowed felt like he had swallowed sand paper.

Hearing the sound of horses, Frodo glanced out the curtain to take a look. His fear lessoned when he noticed it was just Elanor and Frodo riding the ponies. It was their duty to see to the care of the animals and they came to enjoy horse riding.

Frodo closed the curtain and returned to doing the dishes. Belle was asleep in her room with Primrose, down for their afternoon nap. Bilbo was sitting at the table and was currently playing with Star, the smial's cat.

Bilbo had awoken a few moments ago from his own nap and was ready to take on the world. So Frodo, who had not had a good nights sleep in weeks, decided to give Bilbo a long string of yarn and allowed him to amuse himself with the cat. Star, who had just finished her own nap, was now desperately trying to grab the string with her paws.

Rose, Merry and Pippin had gone off with Faramir's son's to play down by the Frog Morton creek. When young Theoden and Boromir realized that none of the Gamgee children could swim, they took it upon themselves
to teach them. At first Sam had been against the idea, but Frodo saw no reason why they shouldn't be taught and easily convinced Sam to allow the swim lessons. Sam agreed, but only, if an adult was nearby and Boromir promised to keep them close to the banks. Usually it was Gimli and Legolas that went with the children down to the creek but Frodo was surprised to see it was Faramir and Eowyn themselves that joined the children this day.

Graced with a day of some down time, Faramir and Eowyn had decided to spend the last remaining days of summer with the family. As usual, Sam was in the garden however he was not alone. Hamfast, Goldilocks and Daisy
where with him. Hamfast was learning how to garden like his father, while Goldilocks and Daisy set to making flower wreaths.

For all intents and purposes it was almost any other day. Except for the feeling of doom. For some reason Frodo knew Merry and Pippin would be arriving today. His hands began to shake at the thought and before Frodo realized it a plate slipped from his hand and smashed to the floor.

That was when the vision came to him. Frodo felt his eyes close and found himself standing alone on a hill. Below him he could see the sea. But he was not alone, Sam was by his side and someone else. A young woman was walking along the beach and she seemed familiar to him. She had long golden hair, almost like sunlight itself. Her face was soft and glowing. She wore a light summer dress, and a beautiful necklace around her neck. It appeared to be made of diamonds and amethyst stones made to look like a butterfly. She almost looked like an elf, but not. Her feet were twice the size of any elf and she was not quite so tall nor as thin, and yet she had such an incredible beauty it took his breath away.

She was looking to the sea for a long moment and then she turned and looked up at the hill and seeing him she waved. He waved back. He did not know this woman, or did he?

She began to run towards him, smiling and that was when Frodo noticed her eyes, they were the color of lilacs.

Frodo opened his eyes in shock as the realization hit him. Belle, that would be Belle in thirty or forty years from now. Perhaps not as beautiful as The Lady Galadriel or Arwen or even Eowyn, but her beauty was still something to be marveled at. In fact, more beautiful, for in her eyes dwelled an all consuming love, to her father's. She was going to go into the West and they would be together across the sea.

“Frodo, me dear? Frodo? Love, did you hurt yourself?”

Frodo turned and saw Sam holding Daisy in his arms, staring at him in great concern. Putting Daisy down, Sam moved towards Frodo. Looking down, Frodo saw the dish on the floor in a million pieces.

Frodo looked up and smiled. The Valar had sent him a message and that message brought him relief.

“Frodo?” Taking his lovers hand, Sam looked Frodo over to make certain he hadn't cut himself. Seeing that Frodo was fine, Sam began to pick up the broken pieces.

That was when Frodo heard the sound of horses and he did not have to look out the window to know who it was. Merry and Pippin had returned.

Sam ran from the kitchen and when he returned he was holding Belle in his arms. The next thing Frodo knew Sam had handed Belle to him and was grabbing a backpack and throwing food and articles into it.

“Run Frodo. Take Belle out the back door. I will try and distract them for as long as I can--”

Frodo looked down at Belle to see her quietly looking up at him. Her eyes wide and full of love. Sighing in pure bliss, Frodo shook his head as Sam tried to hand the back pack to him.

“Frodo?”

“No Sam. We are not going to run away. We must face this, as we have faced everything—together.”

Not understanding, Sam looked at Frodo in desperation. “They can't take her away. They just can't!”

Frodo smiled and nodded. “They won't. Trust me.”

***

When the knock came at the door and opened, Frodo looked up from the kitchen table. He was feeding Belle and she had nearly finished the bottle. Sam was sitting on the opposite end of the table looking confused and more than a bit frightened.

“Your back,” Frodo replied, trying to sound cheerful, though his tone was just slightly off. When Pippin fully entered the room Frodo could see the trepidation in the young hobbit's eyes. Merry came in after him, wearing the same expression. Something was wrong.

Handing Belle to Sam, Frodo went to his cousins. Tears were in their eyes. Frodo reached out his hand and they both dived into his arms.

When the sobbing had calmed a little, Frodo pulled slightly away and looked deep into his cousins eyes. “What happened?”

“It--it was dreadful. It was horrible!”. It was all that Pippin could say before he wound up sobbing uncontrollably.

Now turning to Merry, Frodo waited for his cousin to speak. “Mer?”

Merry lowered his eyes to the ground and then taking in a deep breath he met Frodo's eyes. “They don't want her. They want nothing to do with... that abomination. They called her an abomination.”

Frodo swallowed and led them to the table. Handing each cousin some tea and some biscuits, Frodo waited patiently for the story to unfold.

It was Pippin that managed to begin the story.

“Their was to be an arranged marriage. Asphodel was to marry a Drowger. She was not in love with him and refused. When her family pressed her to follow through with the marriage she ran away. All the way to Bree. She stayed with a distant cousin and worked as a barmaid at the Bear Claw inn. It was there, after a few months, she met an Elf traveling through. Nothing is known about him other then they were seen together and--” Unable to carry on, Pippin swallowed and stared into his tea cup.

Merry swallowed and continued where Pippin left off. “They fell in love and the people in Bree found it an abhorrence. Such bigotry, such prejudice. I have never seen such before. They could not tell us the name of the elf but they said that he came from around or near Imladris. They were literally thrown out of the town, Frodo. I cannot even begin to imagine--” He paused and added, “She was already with child and apparently in the nearby towns they would not... they would not take them in. No one would take them. They were treated as if they carried the plague. They were headed in the direction of Rivendell but, somehow--someway they decided to come here instead. To Gondor.”

Merry paused and glancing at Sam he returned to looking at Frodo. “A Inn keeper in Durmont told me when they breakfasted at her place... that she mentioned to them of hobbits living in Gondor and that perhaps... they would be more accepted there.”

Frodo could barely breathe at this pronouncement. “Here? They were coming here?”

Pippin now cut in. “It is said now in almost every town that a small band of hobbits had relocated near the Kingdom of Minas Tirith. That the Ringbearer has returned to Middle-Earth and began his life anew. From what we could gather, I think they were coming here to try to start a new life... together.”

Frodo felt horror hit him in ever direction and he was forced to get up and pace the room. His hands shaking once more.

“Then... it is my fault that they perished?” The meaning of these words struck Frodo's heart and he found it hard to breath.

“It twas not your doing!” shouted Sam. He got to his feet and, after handing Belle to Pippin, took his lover at once into his arms. “Frodo my love, it wasn't. Don't talk such nonsense.”

But Frodo felt the guilt nonetheless. They were coming here to escape the prejudice and had been hoping that they could establish themselves and create a new life. Here. Instead they met their deaths. How could this not be his fault?

Frodo felt a wail come to his lips and Sam held Frodo tightly in his arms as he wept. “It's not nonsense. I was the cause for killing her parents, it was my fault. My fault!”

Frodo fled from his arms and tried to run. He got as far as the garden when he heard a shrill cry. His feet came to a halt and Frodo turned back to stare at his cousins and Sam standing in the doorway. Belle was back in Sam's arms. She was crying.

“How will I ever tell her this? When she is grown? How?”

Moving towards Belle, Frodo allowed the tears to fall. Belle's eyes were open and her arms reached out for him, almost as if she sought to bring him comfort.

Frodo took her into his arms and kissed her cheek and forehead. “Oh Belle. Dear sweet Belle. My Belle.”

Sam moved forward and joined Frodo's side, one hand on his shoulders and the other hand stroking Belle's cheek.

“Our Belle.”

Frodo nodded and looked at Pippin to make certain. “Her kin does not want her?”
Pippin reached into his backpack and pulled out a long piece of paper, in which he handed to Sam. Sam opened the letter to see seven signatures.

“We made certain that they could never have her, and they signed it. Including us.”

We, the kin of Belle Blower decree her to be given over to Frodo Baggins and Samwise Gamgee, to be fully charged with her keep and upbringing. We give up any and all rights to her.

Sam couldn't believe it as he read those words, and he looked to Merry. “How could they just sign it? They are Belle's grandparents? What of her other kin? What did they say?”

Merry shrugged his shoulders. “They said nothing. I thought one would speak out, but no. As far as they are concerned Asphodel died when she refused to marry who they desired for her. Who they chose for her. And the baby... means nothing to them. If anything she is a stained mark upon them.”

Frodo swallowed down the anger and shook his head. “Fine. Then it is just as well that she stays here with us. With ones that will truly love her.” Holding Belle in his arms, he looked down at Belle and smiled. Her arms waved and she almost looked delighted, as if whenever Frodo was happy she was happy.

“Ours. Belle, my baby...”

Sam turned to Merry and Pippin and shook his head. “So that ends this then. Belle can stay with us?”

Pippin and Merry smiled lightly and nodded.

And the impending doom that seemed to be hanging over the Gamgee and Baggins family seemed to vanish and disappear and somewhere, as Frodo looked to the skies, he could see Gandalf. Standing tall and proud, clutching his staff and smiling. Your Belle, for always

Belle was indeed theirs now. She would never be taken from them and someday, when Frodo and Sam chose to go into the West, she would go with them. They would be together.

“It is not over yet. We still need to fill in one gap,” replied Frodo. He looked at Sam sadly, “Her father. I want to know the name of that elf and why... why didn't he take her to Rivendell instead. Why didn't he take her to Imladris? Why not to his kin? And if any of his kin still exist in Middle-earth. I must know this as well.”

Frodo had no sooner said this that the sounds of a huge horse approaching caught their attention. They turned to see Legolas riding quickly towards them, reaching them he leaped from the horse.

“Frodo, Sam! It is the queen, she is having the baby. The king has sent me to fetch you.”

A few hours later, Frodo, still holding Belle in his arms and with Sam at his side holding Bilbo, they entered the queens chambers.

Aragorn was there looking at his wife. Arwen was asleep with a small bundle in her arms.

Aragorn nodded at them and smiled sadly. “Merry and Pippin already told me, before they came to you. Do not blame yourself Frodo. If it is anyone's fault for Belle's parents death, it was her own kin. For in not taking her in and allowing their daughter a chance of happiness and for allowing their prejudices to get in the way-- they caused their child's death and the loss of a great treasure. May they someday realize the mistake they made, for with it came at a great cost.”

Frodo nodded once and that confirmed he would try to believe that, but Frodo was certain he would spend most of his life blaming himself for this tragedy. It would not however hinder him in caring and loving Belle for all of his days. And he would love her for all the days of his life.

“She's beautiful. What will you name her?” asked Sam.

Aragorn didn't even hesitate. “We have decided to name her Gilraen. After my mother.”

Both hobbits more than approved the name.

***

That night, Frodo pulled Belle's crib into their bedroom. Sam did not protest. It would be just for tonight, one night. They wanted to keep Belle close, it was still a shock to them that Belle indeed was going to stay. For a long time Frodo just looked into the crib, his eyes sad and full of remorse.

“Frodo me dear, please stop blaming yourself. You heard Aragorn and he's right. It was Asphodel's parents own fault and the fault of those towns people. Not yours.”

Frodo did not turn and continued to look at Belle.

“Frodo?”

Falling back against the pillows, Frodo took Sam's hand into his and drawing it to his lips he kissed it. “Give me some time, Sam. I need time. I finally accepted the fact that I was going to lose her and than to know that she is to stay--. And the circumstances now that brought her into our lives. So tragic. How could anyone's parents do such a thing. To disown your own child and their grandchild? How cruel, Sam. How cruel people can be and to find it no less in our kind... hobbits. It grieves my heart to know that despite all I did, they never learned the lesson.”

“What lesson?” asked Sam.

“That love is the greatest and most important strength against evil. That it is in love we can triumph over everything. Even death.”

Cuddling close, Frodo tried to stay awake, however the day had been long and these passed few weeks had finally caught up to him. Within moments he was asleep.

Sam was not far behind.

***

In the night, the candle flickered and a shadowed form walked quietly along the corridor. It made it's way to the bedroom to see two sleeping hobbits. A soft noise had the form turn to the crib and stare down at the baby.

Her eyes were open and staring up at the familiar figure. She seemed to smile and wave her hands. A hand reached down gently and touched the small fingers. She could go now. All would be well. Her child would never wander alone. Never will she know the meaning of the word unwanted. She had a home now and she would be loved. She turned and saw the light and could see someone she loved waiting for her.

It was time to move on, so she entered the light.

5

(Writer’s note, I am using the adaptation of Peter Jackson’s Two Towers, where he had elves sent by Elrond to help at Helm’s Deep in this part of the story.)

Things seemed to return to normal within the Gamgee and Baggins home. Frodo found most of his days busy caring for the children, while Sam worked most of his days in the garden or down in Ithilien helping Faramir and his men in fixing up an area they called a play ground. It would be for the children when the new School opened at the end of the summer. It would allow them a place to play without being underfoot or too far away from their classes.

During the evening, the hours Sam spent were completely dedicated to Frodo and the children. Late at night, when the last of the candles were blown out, Sam was all Frodo's and no one elses. Many a night was filled with ardent passion, but most importantly love returned.

It was early one morning, after first breakfast and while in the midst of working on second breakfast, that Frodo heard hoof prints outside his door. Sam had already gone off into Ithilien today to help Faramir and the children were still getting washed up and ready for the new day before them. Di was going to take the children apple picking and Frodo was not only trying to make second breakfast but make up a basket that will hold the little ones until elevenses.

Looking out the window, Frodo was surprised to see it was the twin sons of Elrond. They had come from the direction of the citadel, having returned late last night. Taking out some drinks, Frodo put the last bits of food on the table and called the children to eat. He then stepped out to greet his guests.

Frodo found Elrohir and Elladan sitting quietly by their horses, their faces grim and sad, almost guilt ridden. With elvish greetings, Frodo offered them the drinks and biscuits but the twins only stared at their hands.

“What is it? What has happened?” Still seeing the weariness in their eyes, Frodo set the tray down and sitting next to them, Frodo offered each his hand. They took his hand almost gratefully and yet still they seemed greatly trouble. “Come now, it cannot be as bad as all that. Does this have to do with Belle?”

Both shuddered slightly.

“I see, well then, why not get it off your chests as quickly as possible. Come, tell me. Tell me everything...”

It was Elrohir that spoke. His voice usually full of lightness and joy now filled with grief and shame.

“His name was Litherian and he was a historian in our father's library for many centuries. He was one of the last elflings born in the third age. Shortly after his birth, his parents gave him over to Erestor to raise, as they sought rest in the West. He was not a great warrior for he much preferred reading books and learning of the history of Middle-earth to battle. We did not know him all that well but he was often kind and respectful. He was one of the many elves sent by Elrond and Lady Galadriel to come to the aid of men and Aragorn at Helm's deep. Though he was not a fighter, he had long read the stories of war and battle and it intrigued him. Though father was hesitant, he eventually agreed, allowing him to go. It was a dire time and so little time, father could not know...”

It was here that Elrohir turned to his brother and Elladan sadly continued the tale. “It was during that siege, that darkness, that Litherian was over come with fear and ran during the midst of battle. He was not a warrior and that is understandable, no one held anger or resentment upon him. I swear to you dearest Frodo that is not our way to pronounce such harshness upon another. However, when he arrived in Imladris to learn that all the other elves he had gone with at Helm's deep had perished, he was overcome with shame and guilt. Our father, many of his advisers--even my brother and I tried to soothe him but Litherian was inconsolable and so wracked with guilt that he sent himself into exile. Swearing he would never return as he deserved death for what he had done.”

Frodo felt tears spring into his eyes and for a long time, Frodo sadly shook his head. “Guilt is a hard pain to purge from your soul. This I know. Regrettably because of this as well, it was a path that sent Litherian into Asphodel's life. Because of this Belle was born. It also sent them on a course of exile from town to town. I cannot even imagine the pain they must endured. How sad. And then here, to their doom.” After a long moment, Frodo handed them the twins a drink and nodded. “May he and dear Asphodel find a place in the Halls of Mandos. Where they will be accepted and loved.”

Both Elrohir and Elladan raised their eyes to the heavens and spoke softly in their own tongue with the same desire and blessing. After second breakfast, Frodo watched the children set off with Di to go apple picking. Alone with just Belle and the twins, he turned to see that Elrond's sons were holding Belle in Sam's garden and were singing to her softly. Though they knew she could not hear their voices, it seemed to bring them comfort to hold the babe in their arms. A comfort that so many seemed to need. Frodo still did not know how in the years to come he would ever explain about her birth parents or even how they came to die but he did know one thing: he would never allow one day go by that Belle would doubt her place here among them. Every day he would make certain she knew only love. Frodo hoped it would be enough.

Frodo glanced at the willow tree just beside the lake and nodded silently to himself. He would write to Aragorn at once and give it to Elladan and Elrohir to give to him when they returned to the citadel this evening. He would ask permission for Litherian and Asphodel be laid to rest here by the lake, under the willow tree. A final resting place, where they would never be forced to leave. It was beautiful here and if they had come, Frodo knew in his heart he would have bade them to stay. He would have been glad of their company and delighted in giving them a place of their own to call home.

A soft wind brushed his cheek and Frodo almost felt a whispered voice saying thank you. Or perhaps it was just the rustle of the leaves. Smiling, Frodo went into the smial and headed for the den. He would write the letter at once.

***

Aragorn and Arwen, followed by high guards, Faramir and Eowyn, Legolas and Gimli, as well as the twin sons of Elrond, led the funeral onwards to the lake. Two white marble caskets with flowers wreathed over them were proudly carried along to its last destination.

Frodo held Belle in his arms, with Sam by his side, and watched as Aragorn made a tender farewell speech. Frodo was not surprised that many of the citizens of Minas Tirith and Ithilien came as well to pay their respects. It warmed Frodo's heart to know that not everyone held such prejudice and hate in their hearts.

“It is never easy to accept death in any form, especially to ones that we come to love in our hearts. It is also not easy to accept a tragic death to ones that are undeserving of such an ill fate. And this ending was most ill and undeserving. The rode that Asphodel and Litherian were on was a long one. They suffered many obstacles and opposition yet they still held hope, hope that they would find a place to settle and live their lives out in peace. That is something remarkable and must be said and remembered. Of their strength and courage, despite the odds and the prejudice before them, they refused to back down from their principles and would not excuse or be ashamed of the love they held for each other. Here, I promise they will find a place, a home here within the Kingdom of Gondor. Sadly, however, one alone survives and must pay the penalty. Left now alone to carry on is their child. Belle, as she has been named, will in the years to come want to know the truth of her birth parents and more still why they died. Many are to blame for this tragedy and have much to answer for even if they don't face it in this lifetime.

No one will know the suffering and the silent grief this child will bear, because others would not bend, or compromise or even accept that love has many forms and shapes and should always be looked at in love, not hate. I say before you, hate must not be met with hate, no--it must be met with love and forgiveness and letting go. Belle must learn that life does go on and we will show her that. We shall give the strength of her parents to warm her heart and soul. To give her courage and all the love that we can possibly give her. Though she and her parents were unwanted... this is no longer. This will be her home. Asphodel and Litherian, may we do you justice and may these dear hobbits we have all come to love deeply raise your child as you would have desired. Go now in peace.”

When Aragorn finished his speech, Frodo glanced around the mourners and saw that not a single one had a dry eye. It was almost fitting that a few hours later the clouds thickened and the rain poured down. But it only lasted an hour. Then the sun came out and it shined more brightly then it had in many days. It was time to move on.

***

Belle's birth parents were buried under the willow tree and stones were carved by Gimli with the most loving care. Sam planted white lilies which were grown in abundance in Imladris and a variety colored daisies and lris's which were grown in the heart of the Shire. Sam felt it only fitting that such a great love deserved a beauty from both worlds.

The Twins came daily to stare at the stones, their hearts still grieving. Frodo walked quietly out to them one cool morning. Belle was in his arms and she was in a deep sleep after having a very satisfying meal. Reaching the twins, Frodo looked down at the graves.

“By next spring it will be blooming such beauty. Sam will make certain that it stays that way. Not just for Belle but also for Asphodel and Litherian. My dear friends, you must let go of your guilt. Litherian had many choices he could have made. He never once considered that his own kin would welcome him back. It is not of your doing that brought this event to be. The only one that is to blame are those Orcs and they are dead now.”

“Some of Sauron's dominions still exist even after all these years.”

“You still have much to do then...” Frodo smiled at the boys and the twins looked to Frodo and bowed.

***

Frodo stared at the carvings and then looked at Belle. “Fear not my sweet little Belle. I promise you will never be alone or unwanted again. That is my vow to you. My promise.” He then lowered his head and kissed Belle gently on her forehead.

***

Frodo watched the children play by the lake. The blankets and food were all set out and many a straying hand had found it's way into the Hobbit's basket. Frodo slapped a searching hand.

“Enough of that. You already had three helpings, your majesty!”

Aragorn winced and tried to look hurt but instead he laughed and threw himself on the ground where he gazed fondly up at the blue sky, then proceeded to stare at the trees that now were filled with the colors of autumn. Sam had harvested his garden and found it to be bountiful and produced nearly five times more than any one else's garden. Having already enough to last until next spring, Sam gladly handed out the extra food to the poor in Ithilien and anyone he even suspected of not having enough food to feed their families.

Unbeknowest to Sam, his kindness had caused many hearts to grow even more fond of the simple gardener as he preferred to be known. Sam was anything but simple.

The school had opened on time, of course, and the children of Ithilien had happily begun their lessons with some added classmates. All but Prim, Bilbo and Belle of the Gamgee and Baggins family took their lessons at the school. Friendships were born that would last a lifetime.

Aragorn's gaze then turned to all the ones that now gathered around the lake. Faramir and Eowny with their children were sitting nearby, laughing at Gimli as he had attempted to tell one of his heroric battles and wound up being tackled by playful children who were trying to pretend they were orcs. Gimli would have stood a chance, if Legolas hadn't joined in--on the side of the children.

Arwen was with her children, sitting among several pine trees showing the prince and princess and the newest princess the colorful leaves. The twins were at her side watching and enjoying the peaceful setting of their extended family. Though they would always miss their parents, the twins and Arwen had created a life of their own and, with no regrets, embraced it.

Samwise arrived with the rest of the Gamgee children, after fetching them from school. It would be a delightful surprise to them all when tomorrow they found Frodo was going to take up teaching one of the classes. He was going to teach the children different languages. Elvish and sign language.

Pippin and Di were just a few feet away from him and Aragorn opened one eye to see Pip trying to sneak his hand into Frodo's food basket. Apparently the amount of food Di brought was not enough to keep Pippin from trying to get more food. A quick slap put a stop to Pippin's pillaging.

“Peregrin Took, what do you think you are doing? You have your own basket of which Di has more than enough to keep your empty stomach tamed...”

Pippin only sheepishly smiled back at his cousin. “But she doesn't make the best apple crisp pie like you...”

“What?” cried an indignant voice from behind him.

Pippin quickly cringed and ran to his wife to try and make amends. Both Aragorn and Frodo laughed as they watched Pippin beg and plead like never before. Di of course forgave him, eventually, after he promised to do the dishes at the smial for a week.

Aragorn then turned his gaze to Merry and Estella. They sat quietly and separated from the rest of the group. Merry was holding her hand and seemed to be talking to her softly. Estella looked worn and beaten down. Seeing Aragorn stare at Estella and Merry with a great deal of concern, Frodo offered Aragorn a piece of pie.

“Estella is still afraid. She thinks she will lose this child like... the twins. Merry has been such a dear to her, taking up almost all the chores at the smial and even the care of Little Wyn and Rory. He tries so hard to be supportive but, I can see he is afraid too.”

“Do you think I should--” Aragorn started to speak and then stopped and looked to Frodo for any suggestions.

“Not yet. Maybe after her fourth month, when she feels a little more sure of herself.”

Aragorn lowered his eyebrows and looked at Estella's expanding waist. “She is not in her fourth month yet?”

Frodo now looked concerned and glancing at Estella he turned back to Aragorn. “No, she is only two months along. Why?”

Aragorn smiled softly and shook his head. He would not say anything more, not yet anyway. “Nothing.”

Seeing the concern disappear, Frodo felt his own vanish and the two old friends spent much of their time watching everyone else and mostly just enjoying the peaceful day that was given to them. Aragorn held out his hand and Frodo took it into his own.

“Strider--”

“Yes, Frodo?”

“What will you do about the townsfolk, I mean about what they did to Asphodel and Litherian?”

“Not much can be. I have done what I can, and sent messengers telling each of the magistrates and law officers in each village and town the full story of Asphodel and Litherian and my displeasure as their King in this tragedy. I even had the messengers tell them a story, one that I hope will give them much to pause upon.”

“Story?”

It was amazing how one word caused a bundle of children to surround the king. But as parents tried to stop this, Aragorn held up his hand to forestall them.

“No, don't send them away. Perhaps a story indeed should be told. This one however is one of long ago. A special story that was told to me by Lord Elrond, my adopted father, who was as dear to me as any father could be.”

As everyone came closer to hear the tale, Aragorn sat cross legged and allowed several of the children to lay claim to his lap. Prim and Bilbo laid first claim but little Eowyn and Sunshine managed to find a spot too. Even Estella and Merry, who had kept themselves away from everyone, came closer.

“A long time ago, in a kingdom far away, existed a town that was very unhappy. They were poor and felt that life was to harsh for them and therefore were harsh to their children in return. This caused much unhappiness and discord. The King, who lived near the town, was a wise and gentle man and for the most part happy. What would make him most happy, however, was to see that his people were content. So, one day he decided to call all the townspeople to the square. There he informed each and everyone that during a night, some time ago, he handed one of the people in the town his very own child. He asked them to care for this child and treat this child like they were indeed a prince or princess. For his child deserved no less.

The townspeople asked,'When did you do this and how will we know which is your child?' And he said, 'I will not tell you. Only you can tell yourselves which child is mine.' And so, as it became, many a person with children decided that it was THEIR child that was the prince or princess. And before long each of the people began to treat there own child with love and care as if they were of royal blood. Besides, how would it be, if they discovered that their child was the Kings and they mistreated them?

The town in time grew happier and brighter and people became friendlier and more loving. Years passed and one day; the King came into the town and a woman, a simple but young barmaid, begged the King to tell her it was she that was his. That she was a princess. Others came and also begged him to tell them that it was their child or they themselves that were of royal blood. That was when the King smiled at all of them and he said 'You are all my children. All of you.'”

THE END

I am not sure of the title of the story told by Aragorn, but it does not belong to me, I am still trying to find who originally wrote. As soon as I find the title and where this story came from, I will give credit. Or if you know of this story and who wrote it, please let me know by email. Thank you!

(still to come The Last Unicorn. WIP)