Archive of Our Own ^beta

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“WHAT DO YOU MEAN YOU THINK THE NEW SEASON IS THE BEST YOU'VE EVER SEEN!!! You haven’t even watched all the seasons..?” yelled Karl. Nolan gave a contemplative stare at the ceiling while concealing a mischievous grin behind his hand. Nolan hasn’t watched all the seasons but knew shouting out a random season is his favorite would most likely give him the reaction from Karl he wanted. Even though it might make Karl think he’s bullying him, it’s really to see the red flush of his cheeks while his face scrunches up in the cutest rabbit-like way.

The only problem is when Nolan does this Foolish always immediately notices the all too pleased look on his face, which most would say is too love sick to be platonic teasing. So, the only thing Foolish can think of doing is shouting “Look someone is naked on the TV!”. Which obviously was shocking enough for both Nolan and Karl to twist their necks towards the TV, and of course didn’t show any such thing. They then both immediately glare at Foolish, especially Karl as he had once again been fooled.

“You know I didn’t recommend a movie night for it to become a target Karl night,” Karl says while rubbing his brow with an exhausted look on his face, waiting for one of them to either respond with a quip or a surprising apology. But surprisingly they did neither, too absorbed in their own conversation about the episode they were currently watching. Karl sighs, turning back to pay attention to what’s happening because he knows his favorite part is coming up. Until he starts to feel this increasing presence, and out of the corner of his eye he can see this slowly forming figure. Karl then thinks back on all the alien invasion movies he’s ever watched and starts slowly turning his head, not wanting to make any sudden movements to alert the intruder.

Finally, he’s staring at this bug-like creature with ginormous eyes and 2-foot-long antennas. He notices its claws kind of had the fluidity of human hands and were waving towards the three of them. Karl can feel his heart quickening and glances at his friends to see if they have noticed yet, but Foolish and Nolan look too enamored in their phones. He looks back at the creature, its aura all encapsulating, and he can’t help but have the ever-deepening feeling of despair.

The creature is staring directly at Karl, the pulsing power of its spell traveling and covering Karl whole. Karl can feel the power buzzing under his skin, feel himself changing in ways that he can’t explain. He can’t handle this any longer he has to alert his friend before it’s too late. Karl screams at the top of his lungs as he starts slowly hovering above the couch towards the creature.

Nolan’s heart stops when he hears the only person he can say he would want to stay the closest to for the rest of his life scream. He jumps off the couch before turning to see his friend slowly floating towards a giant bug, shock and fear taking hold of him. Foolish also felt the same, wanting to take his smaller friend out of the claws of this wretched looking creature.

Once they both got a full grasp of the situation, they immediately ran towards Karl to help him escape. But the creature seems to already understand what they were planning and raises its claws towards them, making them both hover as well. They all squirm and scream trying to yell out to anyone or anything, knowing that whatever this creature had planned for them was gonna severely incapacitate them.

When they all finally made the distance between the couch and the creature, they all gazed at the startling yet terrifyingly beautiful bug. It gave back the same piercing gaze, looking at each of their faces like it was checking for something.
Karl really couldn't believe this was happening, especially on the night when they all had actual free time; especially when it came to ‘Survivor’. He was also frustrated because Nolan was going to teach him how to bake velvet cake, and he even spotted Nolan celebrating when he accepted the invitation to bake because he usually doesn't due to his inadequate baking skills.

Unbeknownst to Karl, Nolan was thinking the same thing. He was also becoming increasingly more scared for what he thought were their final seconds of life. Because he never got to tell Karl his innermost feelings about him and possibly build an intimate and beautiful relationship…but now that will never happen.
At least his last view of Karl will be in this all-encompassing beautifully kaleidoscopic light surrounding him, which he thought was a deserving fit of his overall aura.

Foolish couldn't think of anything, like he was numb and waiting for the inevitable. In his mind, it was either going to eat them or evaporate them with the power it was using to hold them up. Then suddenly he had a thought while looking at this creature, about how this creature would make such a beautiful statue in Minecraft. “Why couldn't it have just been a bug on the rug,” he thought solemnly.

The creature clears its throat, surprisingly silencing all their minds and capturing their acute attention. It starts by looking directly at Karl, “You have a round cherubic face with wide innocent eyes, while your favorite pastime is watching or reading your favorite stories, a Hobbit would suit you well,” it says this with as far as anyone can tell from its alien-like face, a satisfied expression.

The creature then turns towards the other two and smirks saying “I know what you two should be but I will give you a choice on what you think you should be, so please decide between Hobbit, Human, Elf, or if you're feeling adventurous an ork”. Foolish and Nolan turn towards each other, coming to a decision through their eyes.
Both are about to shout what they want when Karl asks “Why do they get to decide? I would like to be treated equally so I can actually have a chance at survival.” he says with a look of courage on his face.

The creature laughs heartily while gasping” Isn't it obvious why I won't let you decide! You are much more important to both of them than they are to each other, it will be much more fun when it is a competition between a best friend and an unacknowledged love interest.” Hearing this hits Karl straight where it hurts since it's always been a character flaw of his to be unaware of another person's feelings, causing him to immediately gauge Foolish and Nolan's expressions. Noticing how they became noticeably paler, both trying their best not to look Karl in the eye.

Foolish and Nolan both knew very well that Nolan was the unacknowledged love interest, so trying not to make the situation any crazier than it was they averted their eyes from Karl to not make it obvious. Nolan trying his hardest not to look at Karl to see if he would have any positive reaction to one of his friends liking him, which is of course not the most important thing happening at this moment.

The creature giggles saying” Nolan.” They all gasp” Is an Elf,” hearing this Nolan huffs a quiet sigh of relief while also wondering what being an elf would entail. Then the Creature turns towards Foolish “ And you stay a Man, but no need to be disappointed because the men of this world are much stronger than the men in yours” it says with whimsy. Foolish after hearing this becomes increasingly confused as well as remembering something, he has heard of these creatures and world before but can't remember where.

While he thought, the creature started speaking with a much more serious voice” Well, without much more time to waste, I will tell you what I expect from you. You are all being sent to Middle-earth, one of the greatest forms of fantasy world ever created. Some of you will have a great journey while one of you will stay and learn more about the world to help the travellers. Whomever the traveller that gets to the scholar first will be allowed to escape with the scholar, but whoever doesn't make it first will be trapped in Middle-earth for the rest of their life.”

This of course made all of them frightened, looking to each other with immense despair. They then looked to the creature and begged for their lives, wanting nothing more than to reason with it even though they doubted they would ever get through. Which of course they were correct as the creature suddenly started mumbling gibberish while swinging its arms around, they felt the immense power start to increase around them. Feeling like they were dissolving into the air, they all screamed in terror trying to hold each other's hands.

Then it all became black…

Chapter Text

* Gasp*

Karl opens his eyes to the view of the sky, the same blue sky in his world. “Maybe it was all just a dream, and I accidentally fell asleep in my backyard,” he thought. He closes his eyes and slowly sits up, hoping that what he sees is his house in front of him. Now that he’s hoping for things, he also hopes that Foolish and Nolan will have some takeout ready for him inside. But he knows that probably too much to ask, so not wanting to prolong the inevitable he slowly cracks his eyes open. Only to find beautiful green hills and farmland in front of him. “Maybe one of them is pranking me by taking me to their hometown?”.

Karl gets up and brushes himself off, only to realize he doesn’t have a scrap of clothing on him. He immediately jumps into a field of corn, walking through it and hoping he might find any form of covering whatsoever. “Where am I and where did my clothes go!? Was I kidnapped? Or possibly this is all part of some social experiment stunt?” As he continues walking through the field he suddenly notices how ginormous the stalks are, “Damn these are some giant corn plants, or maybe I just spend too much time in my house and need to touch some grass…”.

He continues to walk for 15 more minutes until he finally finds a barn, where by his luck he sees a big blanket covering some corn in a wheel barrel. “ I wonder where Foolish and Nolan are, if they're having as much trouble as I am then at least I'm not going through this alone,” he covers himself with the blanket and walks towards the barn to ask for some help. Though he doubts anyone is in the barn at this exact time, “maybe I should just check the house” he thinks. As he turns to make his way towards the house he is spooked by the doors of the barn suddenly bursting open.

Running out the door are two squirrely looking guys with piles of vegetables in each of their arms. They run towards the field he just came from, and he starts running for them trying to catch up. He didn’t have to catch up for long as they both tripped over their own feet, and dropped all the vegetables in their arms. “Hey, guys uuhh you need some help?” Karl asked, wanting to create some conversation to bring up the subject of where he is. They both grunt in effort as they pick themselves up, “No need thank you very much, just have to get out of here before farmer Maggot notices we’ve been in his crop again.

As they continue to get ahold of their wits, they turn towards him and immediately their eyes light up. “Um, well since you guys don’t need help I’d just like to ask if you know where I am?” Said Karl hoping to find the answers to all his questions with these two. “Hmm, ‘guys’…you aren’t from here are you?..but even so of course we could help you, Master?…” They both raise their eyebrows and smirk hoping to find out the name of this eccentric-looking Hobbit. “Oh, it’s Karl,” Karl says which makes them both equally confused, “ I know everyone in Hobbiton and I have never heard such a name, is it short for something?”.

Karl is astounded by all these questions they are asking, shouldn’t he be the one getting his questions answered? “Telling from their accents they must be from England or somewhere near it and that’s why they don’t know about the..name…Karl…? Is Hobbiton a part of England?” Karl thinks looking at both of them with slightly shocked eyes. “Sorry fellas but I will answer all your questions when you just tell me where I am and I might sound crazy but are we on earth?” he asks. “Oh sorry! Of course, we forgot to introduce ourselves, I am Pippin and this is Merry and we are in the beautiful Shire, where I thought most Hobbits were from until of course you. A hobbit who hasn’t had the basic education about Middle-earth….OH WAIT! I know exactly who can help you with that.” Said Pippin with the same enthusiasm a puppy would have at getting a biscuit.

And at that, they both pick up their vegetables and start prancing towards what he assumed would be the way to town, not allowing Karl to get another word in. Karl jogs to keep up, trying to match their pace, “Wait…why are their feet so big and hairy?” Karl looks down at his own feet,” Mine are ginormous and hairy as well, what am I?!” Karl looks up with fear, finally realizing he is not where he's supposed to be. “Uh excuse me, can you guys tell me what a….*clears throat* hobbit is…” Karl says knowing that the absurdity of the statement might make them think he's joking. They both slowly turned their horrified faces to him,” Wow, you're education is much worse than I thought, good thing we're taking you to Bilbo.” said Merry astonished by this Hobbit that most likely knew nothing about his culture.

“A hobbit is one of the best races of Middle-earth, we have the best weed, Ale, parties, and erm cakes and umm that's about it,” said Pippin satisfied with his inadequate description. “I'd say hobbits are so good at hospitality that you will never want to leave their land,” said Merry with a hint of smugness. With seeing his face Karl thinks back to when he first saw them, arms full of vegetables that didn't belong to them. 

But anyway, these answers didn't satisfy Karl's curiosity, as he still needed to know what they were and why he was turned into one.” Sounds similar to the people I know in my land, but what I really want to know is what a Hobbit is physically?” Karl asks desperate for their answer. “People? Did you come from the land of men? And if you did how did they treat you?” Questioned Merry with a concerned look on his face now understanding why this Hobbit knew so little about his own culture.

“In a sense yes, but they are different from your men here. Probably much kinder.” Karl said not understanding the concern written on both of their faces, hoping that the men of this world aren’t like the villains of his. “WOW, never met a hobbit that was raised by Men, but to answer your question on what a Hobbit is physically, that you will also have to find out from Bilbo,” Merry said the last part of the sentence so enthusiastically that you would assume he wouldn’t know half of what Bilbo does in his lifetime. “Then there isn’t much time to waste! We must get to Bag-end fast before the grump closes it off for the evening.” Said Pippin as he sprinted down the path with a pep in his stride.

They went on their merry way, making it in a short time from how fast they were sprinting at some points of the journey. Karl looked at all the hills with doors and fences in front, even spotting some Hobbits looking at him strangely. “ Can’t blame them, all I'm wearing is a blanket and I probably look a fright” Karl stated as a matter of fact even though it was no Hobbits business what he was doing. They stop at the biggest hill at the highest peak, the big green door ominously waiting for them.

“We’re here, now don’t ask Mr.Baggins too many questions too fast and don’t try to ask for food unless he offers it, just don’t annoy him overall!” Yelled Pippin as he knew how his distant cousin could get. They all step to the door and give it three delicate not too loud knocks, hoping not to upset the unsociable Hobbit inside.

But lo and behold it is a hobbit with raven hair and big blue eyes that answers the door, Karl is puzzled because he thought the Hobbit that would answer would be much older. The Hobbit smiles at Pippin and Merry and stops on him, giving him a once-over that brought a confused look on his face. “Hey Frodo, do you have any idea where your uncle might be?” Asked Merry conjuring up his most innocent face to not raise suspicion. But of course it did the opposite, making Frodo raise an eyebrow in question. Being their senior Frodo can notice the little expressions on the young hobbits' faces because he was intuitive like that. “What might I ask, do you need with my Uncle? Are you two up to trouble again?” Frodo says with a chastising lilt to his voice.

Before they could get a word out Karl speaks up to explain his situation, “I’m sorry to cause trouble, but I’m just very lost here and I would like to know what my situation is so I can get better acclimated to what and where I am.” he states with a sincere voice, hoping to convince Frodo of the trouble he’s in. “Yes, you're not from here…your accent, demeanor, eyes all tell me you have seen many things but not the things here. What might I help you with?” Frodo says with a hint of pity. But Karl knew pity was a good thing in his situation so he took what he could get and said “I would like to know the world I’m in and what inhabits it, what I am and the difficulties that come with it, and how I can communicate from long distances. “Whoa, you really are lost” puffs Frodo in amusement.”I can help you but you must know that living here and as a hobbit will be far from your normal.”he informs.

Karl nods his head in understanding ready to learn all he needs to know about this place and what he is, hoping he can figure it all out before Nolan and Foolish get themselves in any danger. Because if he’s going through this they most likely are as well since they were all spoken to by The Creature. But Karl will do everything in his power not to let anything befall them and help them find him in any way he can.

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Nolan gasps in surprise after opening his eyes, immediately sitting up and assessing his surroundings. “What! Where am I!? Where’s Karl!! Foolish? Huh!” Nolan shouts with fear and confusion wondering how this situation came to fruition. Taking a deep breath he hugs himself “How does something like that just appear out of thin air? Is this karma for silently yearning for a close friend that probably has no idea and would most definitely not share…or you know just random bad luck”.

Not making himself feel any better with his humor coping Nolan stands up wondering why the breeze is so strong. Looking down at himself he scoffs “Oh, I’m…naked. And *gasp*I’m missing my freckles and acne? Maybe this situation isn’t as bad as I thought.” hoping he won’t regret that statement for the amount of time he’s in this world. “Even if this is real or not, I should just try my best to survive right?” grunting with frustration he gets up and starts walking because he might go crazy if he’s alone any longer and continues talking to himself.

As he's walking he can’t stop thinking that the trees are whispering to him, as well as there being never-ending giant spiderwebs at every corner. If he even knows if he passed that oddly familiar corner again or not. “Why is this forest so confusing? Even if this isn’t my world I would still think it would be beneficial to have some signs.”. He screams as he continues to walk hoping to find any sort of path. And not even 10 feet behind him a branch snaps.

“Wha! Who’s there…” getting no response he asks “um, can you help me by chance?” slowly inching towards the noise, hoping for the best-case scenario. Then springing from the bushes are two tall angelic-looking men with bows pointed straight at his face, “state your business Elf, and don’t go spouting lies either because we have spent thousands of years getting to know every one of our brothers and sisters.”The Angelic men stated with as much authority as a king.

“Oh, well basically….do you want the full story or do you want me to just say I got lost because that would sum it up in the simplest way?” Nolan questions hoping they’ll at least believe that much. But both the Angelic Men gave him a frown like he was a squashed bug under their shoes.”It seems you won’t state your purpose, so we will have to put you under arrest as stated in the law of King Thranduil.” They commanded.

They grabbed each of Nolan’s arms leading him through the bushes down a path he most likely would have never found, “How do I prove my innocence to you people! I am not a criminal, I never even got a ticket just been involved in many car accidents….not my fault AT ALL!” Nolan yelled with what he thought was complete honesty. “Silence yourself before we decide to slay you right here Lýgion! (son of snakes).” They once again commanded not a hint of hesitation in their expressions.

They continued walking for what seemed like hours, until they finally came upon a giant castle with a trench and everything. Leading him inside to twisting stairs and mile-long halls, which they led him throughout not saying a word to Nolan what they intended for him. Until finally he is led into what looks to be a throne room, where sitting in the biggest throne he’s ever seen is the most intimidating man he’s ever seen. “Um hello sir-I mean your majesty, I would just like to say I had done no crime but be lost in your forest which if I may be so crude, kind of foolishly has no signs. So, yeah I hope you can be merciful to me just this once.”

The king peers at him analyzing every inch of his nude form, making Nolan feel embarrassed and scrutinized under his gaze. But not long after he finally says “You..are a peasant? Where are your clothes?”. “Oh, well if I tell you I fear you might not believe me,” Nolan says while nervously laughing. The king stares emotionlessly back at his display “You're right I probably won’t, but please humor me with your excuses.” The King says with a hint of boredom behind it. “Um ok, well basically a bug-like creature who was bored wanted to play a game with me and my friends so it sent us to this world to find the most important friend I guess,” Nolan says sheepishly, not interested in getting into the specifics with his friendship with Foolish but most definitely not his relationship with Karl.

“Hmmm, yes…” the king said contemplatively. “You Believe Me!?” Nolan says equally shocked and relieved. “No yes as in you were correct on me not believing you, guards send him to the dungeons until he can be truthful on who sent him as a spy,” Thranduil commands with a wave of his hand and a shake of his head.

“Wait please, you’ve gotta believe me. I would never lie to such wonderful people as yourselves.”Nolan begs. “Yet you continue to lie by calling us people instead of elves, your feigned ignorance will not get you anywhere,” Thranduil said in finality. So, Nolan was taken to the dungeons, a woman pushing him in the cage while giving him the final message “You will get no where in this life or Valinor if you are constantly spouting lies, it will only portray you as a wicked elf, which is no better than an ork.” she says with contempt walking off with an irritated stride in her step.

“I’m…an..elf? Well, that’s surprising, I’ve been told I look like one but I’d never think I’d live as one.” Nolan says while scratching his head, wanting nothing more than some good sleep to get out of this nightmare. “I have to figure a way out of here, dungeon and world, with both Karl and Foolish coming with me,” Nolan states with a new sense of purpose and motivation that he hopes will last as long as he needs, which hearing that elves can live thousands of years did not help.

Chapter Text

*thump*

“Ooowww!” Screamed Foolish after knocking his head on a branch, getting up too quickly after awakening. “Why is that branch there? Did Karl bring another tree inside for his survivor shrine?!” He shrieks looking around to see only dense forest as well as a field not even 200 feet away. “Oh, I guesss not…where am I? I don’t know all the states of America but this looks like..hmm..Minnesota?” he contemplates for a second.” Yup, it’s Minnesota! Now let’s look for help from whatever this is.”

Foolish gets up already forgetting most of what happened the night before, believing it was a dream and he probably sleepwalked to Minnesota for some reason. “This place is beautiful, surprised it’s not a popular tourist attraction.” He says this while walking towards the field to see farther, and hopefully, a house would be spotted during this scanning of the area. “Hmm, no house…no house…no house..ooh, a person! Yes!” He shouts with excitement. “Their riding a horse and have a big hat? Must be a farmer or just love the country-style.”

Foolish sprints towards the person screaming “Hey! Uh, can you help me please? I would greatly appreciate it.”. As he gets closer he starts to notice clothing he’s never seen before but recognizes for some odd reason , a grey gown with a big floppy grey hat. “Maybe it’s a cosplayer in the middle of…nowhere. Yeah, that makes sense. Not as far of a stretch then sleepwalking to Minnesota.” He thinks, now slowly and quietly getting closer hoping it’s not a crazy person he’s coming up to with no backup.

Foolish finally makes it to the he now notices older gentleman holding a map, and not even acknowledging his existence. “Um, excuse me si-“ he was about to ask only to be shushed by the old man, shocking him to silence from the blatant rudeness. “ Silence please, I am trying to see where I must go.” The old man says going back to silently looking at his map, causing Foolish to wait patiently until he was finished.

“Ahh, found it. As you can see this is where I must go to save Middle-earth.” He states showing Foolish the map pointing out where he must go, Foolish stretched his head to look at where he was pointing. Only to see where he was pointing was blank. “Poor thing, must be senile” Foolish thinks, before he hears the old man gasp. When he looks back up to him he’s already staring directly at him. “May I ask where you're from?” The old man says. After hearing this Foolish is relieved that they're finally getting somewhere, he was going to go home.

“Oh me? I’m from Ohio but now live in North Carolina due to my best friend living there, as you can see I’m not there…so can you please tell me where I am?” Foolish asks hoping it’s somewhere close so he can get back fast. “Why… you're more lost than you’ll ever really understand.” The old man says. “The senile thing was a joke but he’s speaking in riddles and gibberish.” Foolish thinks while grinning and slowly walking backwards from the old man and his horse. “I’m gonna go back home now, thanks for all your help with everything I really appreciate it. Hope to repay you some day” foolish says ecstatically, hoping to come off genuine.

“Wait.” The old man commands. Foolish stops, waiting for what he’s going to say next. “Where do you think you are?” The old man asks giving Foolish a once-over. “Well, I thought I was in the U.S. but from your clothes and accent I’m going to assume I’m in England?” Foolish says as well as asks, knowing he might offend the man with his statement. “No, you are in Middle-earth, a land most have come to love as well as fear. But from what I can sense you come from a world beyond this one, am I correct?” The old man asks, quirking an eyebrow in question.

Foolish’s brain is beyond fried right now, in no way is what this man is saying true…right? “So if I’m not on Earth, then how did I get here?” He asks. “That is something for you and I to come to understand on our journey.” The old man states, holding a hand out for foolish to take. “As well as maybe some garments for you master-?” he unjudgmentally says. Foolish not understanding what he’s saying looks down at himself, now noticing he’s been naked this whole time.” It’s a miracle this old man didn’t immediately abandon or attack me, I must look like an insane person.” Foolish thinks, while blushing and covering himself in embarrassment. “The names Noah.”

The old man smiles while taking off his cloak and handing it to Foolish, “and I am Gandalf, pleased to make your acquaintance.”. Foolish immediately puts the cloak on, using Gandalf's help to get on the horse. “I know this is a gamble but for some reason I trust this Gandalf with my life” Foolish thinks, tightening his grip on Gandalf's waist not wanting to be caught off guard. Which he was when the horse started to run, it felt like it was the fastest thing he’s ever ridden on and he’s been in MrBeast’s fastest cars.

“Where are we going!!!” Foolish screams, cutting through the wind. “We are traveling to the most trusted race of Middle-earth, they are known to stay at home, eat, smoke, and party” Gandalf yells. Foolish didn’t really trust that they were the most trustworthy as the people of Earth have proven otherwise, but maybe the people of Middle-earth are different. “Who are these people?” Foolish asks. Gandalf grins looking back at him and yells, “Not people, Hobbits!”. At hearing this it all clicks for Foolish, this is from the trilogy movies ‘The Lord of the Rings’. “This is the coolest thing that has ever happened to me!” He thinks.

“If only my friends were here with me, they would love to come on this adventure with us!” Foolish laughs. “And where are your friends now?” Gandalf asks. Once again, this helps Foolish remember something: the night before, the creature was the one who sent them all here. “My..friends..are…here…” foolish says in a normal tone, not meant to be heard yet Gandalf looks back with a face full of wonder and wisdom. “And we will find them,” Gandalf promises, turning and making the horse ride even faster towards the direction they were traveling. “I hope so, they are more than brothers to me and fulfill my life in ways I can’t describe” foolishly thinks while looking off in the distance with a new sense of courage.

Chapter Text

Firstly, Karl got some much-needed clothes from Frodo that thankfully fit, because for some reason he felt smaller in this body. As Karl gazes at himself in the mirror he can also see a few differences in his appearance as well, “Just a question, how tall do hobbits usually grow?” Once again another one of Karl's questions confused the hobbits, but they immediately got over it due to the knowledge of Karl's situation.

“ Hobbits are usually between 2 to 4 feet tall, and since you are asking all these questions about hobbits..might I ask were you once a tall folk?” Frodo asks with big curious eyes that can see into Karl's soul. “Oh uh…I would say I was pretty tall even though people thought I wasn't because all my friends are literal giants, but yeah I was tall! I was 5’11!”.

“Wow! You were tall, you were basically two of me! And now you are shorter than me…must be very jarring for you, I'm sorry.” Frodo sympathetically says. “No need to apologize, I won't be here for long anyway, so maybe this experience can help me learn from a different perspective,” Karl says with a hopefully convincing grin on his face. “Probably not too different since all your friends were giants!” yelled Pippin. “Uh-huh, Shall we now go to your uncle?” Karl says, hoping to change the subject in order not to make the discussion any longer.

….

“So where is your uncle?” asked Karl after beginning their trek towards the little town he saw on their way to Bag End. “Well, the last place I saw my uncle Bilbo was at the Gaffer’s home brewery, which he probably hoped I wouldn't have spotted him but I won't judge an old hobbits pastimes,” Frodo answers with a solemn look on his face, like he was hoping his uncle wasn't there just to get away.

“Oh, if he were there you should have just told us! Merry and I go there almost every day. We could have helped Master Karl much faster.” shouted Pippin ecstatically as if going to the brew is the best news in the world, now sprinting towards the location. “Pippin calm yourself, it's not like we're racing there!” shouted Merry, sprinting to stop Pippin from tripping over his feet again.

They all continue to walk through the town, making their way through the staring hobbits who notice the unique look and mannerisms of this hobbit they've never seen. “Sorry if I still don't understand your peop-hobbits! Culture, but why is everyone staring at us?” says Karl in an insecure tone. After asking this question though the other three hobbits seemed a bit uncomfortable, “Well…most hobbits don't like change or new comers much since it could come with danger and war, but don't take it to heart because once you get to know everyone I'm sure you'll equally like each other!” said Merry, twiddling his thumbs and furrowing his brow in thought.

“Oh…I guess that's ok…I don't know much about your world so the dangers of it are unknown to me and my blatant ignorance will confuse people” explained Karl in a knowing tone, since his world isn't much different. The hobbits nod in understanding and they all continue their journey, the hobbits gaining more respect for these otherworldly beings' morals and incite.

Finally, they all made it, glancing through the door Frodo immediately notices his uncle. They all walk through the door excitedly, possibly going to get answers on what's going on that their world would accept this being into it. “Hey Uncle Bilbo,” said Frodo, immediately prompting Bilbo to turn to him in surprise and a glimpse of guilt on his face. “Oh, hello my dear Frodo. What caused you to come looking for me at this time of day?” asked Bilbo.

All the hobbits at the question turn to Karl, the sudden attention heightening his nerves. “Hello Bilbo, my name is Karl. I would just like to say that I'm from a world much different from yours, sent here by a creature I have never seen before, with friends who are lost somewhere I don't know, and I need my questions answered to help them.” Karl says with a big exhale, looking up at Bilbo to see if he understood all that he had said. Bilbo looks down at Karl with a blank expression that slowly turns to contemplative after a few seconds, “Well hello to you too Master Karl, but I think my dear young hobbits here had given me to much credit when it comes to my wisdom. I can try my best but I have never met a being from another world.” explained Bilbo with annoyance, glaring at the hobbits.

“That is fine, should I just start from the beginning?” asked Karl. Everyone nodded, all having a wide-eyed, childlike way of waiting

for his story. Karl just hoped they would believe him from start to finish because if they didn't then all would be for nothing, and he would be trapped in this world while his friends might die from the unknown. “ It all started with us watching my favorite stories projected on this mini square…..”

Karl tells them the whole story from the first chapter

…..

“Wow!!! That was the most exciting and eccentric story I had ever heard! You had that all in your head?!” Exclaimed Pippin, not aware of how frightening his words were to Karl. “It’s all true though, it just happened to me, it’s not just a story I made in my head. Please believe me!” Karl yelled over all the pub customers, silencing them all immediately. “Maybe we should discuss this in a more private area.” Said Frodo, all of them following him out of the pub.

When they are in a more private place, Karl starts answering all their questions. “ So one of your friends loves you with all his heart and you don’t know who?” Asked Merry in confusion. The question was confusing Karl even more since why was that relevant in such a serious situation? “I guess, I can’t really discern the difference between friendship and romance-ship since the person I am is so intimate with everyone I come across anyway.” He explained.

After answering this Karl becomes depressed, how can he not know? What kind of friend is he? Maybe he can just get his hopes up and assume it’s the friend he has a slight crush on, making Karl happy all over again. “Now that I answered that Merry, I would like to get to explaining everything while you all help me find my friends at the same time. There is not much time to waste, you must get us all together again. Or else we can never get home.”

With saying this all the hobbits immediately explain the maps at Bag End and how to write a letter and attach it to a crow from the dwarves to deliver a message to his friends. Giving Karl more hope that since the hobbits are so accommodating, his friends may find people similar to them and that they are safe. Or at least he hopes…

Chapter Text

“And all the other boys~..try to chase me~..but heres my number so call me maybe~!” sings Nolan in the most obnoxious way he can muster. Which wasn't enough to get a guard to check on him but have a cranky Scottish dude throw a rock at his dungeon. “Shut your cakehole ya ninny!!! Before I shove my trousers in there!” he threatens. 

This would have normally worked for Nolan to be silenced, but spending eternity in a dungeon sounded way scarier. “Hey hey dude of course I can do that but I just need to know how to get out of here or convince the king to let me out, would you hopefully have some information like that sir?” but what he didn't expect was a long drawn out laugh from that very same grumpy man.

“You really think you will convince the elves to set you free? Unless you have the long lost white gems from the lonely mountain then you will never be set free!” the dungeonman scoffed, rattling his cage with his laughs. This answer discouraged Nolan slightly, but he immediately became hopeful again because why would he betray his friends like that? He must help and save them from this unfortunate curse. 

Nolan can only sit and contemplate what to do next, until he heard footsteps slowly coming closer to his doors. “Mealtime, please step forward and claim your platter.” she commands, looking at him with a slight glare in her eyes. “Guess she's still salty about thinking I was lying”Nolan thinks while stepping up to grab hold of the plate. “Just to clear things up I'm not lying about my situation at all, I really don't know anything about where I am” he starts to explain only to be interrupted by a swift hand.

“Save your words, you will not convince me” she sternly says while quickly turning around to leave. “But my love could be in jeopardy! I only wish to save him from whatever situation I had put him in!”at saying this she turns around again, her eyes displaying a sadness that's ever deepening.

“I…is what you say really true?” she asks looking Nolan straight in the eye. “Of course! I wouldn't lie about something as important as this! Could you perhaps help me?” this questions makes her freeze for a second, she continues to look him in the eye trying to catch any hint of deception. 

“I will help you, but you must follow exactly every single thing I tell you.” at this she starts to open the door, allowing Nolan to escape. “Thank you so much! You will not regret this” he excitedly says while following her out the dungeon doors. “Please be silent, since it seems you don't know much of elves I need to inform you we have excellent hearing.” that immediately silences them, and he waits for her next command. 

They wait for a while because she knows each time the soldiers replace each other, which takes about 5 minutes. “We must go now, come quickly before it's too late.” they start running towards the doors until out of nowhere a blonde elf steps in front of them. “Tauriel. What are you doing with one of the prisoners? Are you trying to go against the kings wishes constantly, or must I always keep my eye on you.” the blonde elf says while crossing his arms. 

“I can see in this elfs eyes that he is confused and doesn't know why he's here, can't you feel that he doesn't belong here Legolas?” at saying this legolas stops for a moment to assess Nolans demeanor, his eyes showing he did spot something amiss. “I will say his posture and essence be that of a man, but he could just be an elf raised by men” they both continue to stare at each other like they knew it was just an excuse.

“Alright, I will help you even though I do not believe you. But don't be mistaken that I won't kill you if I see any threat.” prompting them to immediatly run out the door before the guard came for his turn. 

“So, where are we headed?” Legolas questioned, making Nolan a little embarrassed to say “….um..i don't exactly know. I just thought we could go to the most populated area and ask around y’know.” this answer making both Tauriel and Legolas tighten there fists. “Well, what race is your lover. So, we can know what populated area we should be headed towards..” 

Nolan was surprised by this question, because he didn't know what races were out there or what the word really meant to them. “Uh, he has dark curly brown hair, fair skin, the most rosy delicate cheeks you will ever lay your eyes upon, a nose that can be mistaken for a beautiful round button, and those downturned eyes that can just make you soooo-” before Nolan can finish he suddenly realized where he was and snapped his head towards the both of them, giggling in embarrassment. 

Tauriel and Legolas stared at him in shock, “you have such a way with words for your one, he must be very remarkable to look upon.” said Legolas dazedly. “Oh! Of course he is…thats why I must find him before any danger befalls him. So, I really appreciate the both of you helping me.” they smile and continue to walk.

“Oh! I almost forgot we must find my friend as well! Who I'm sure is also stuck here. His name is Noah and I don't know what his rac-” until suddenly a memory comes to Nolans brain of what the bug had said. “WAIT! I remember now of what races they are. The bug said my one is a hobbit, and my friend Noah is a man. Which I'm a little confused about cause aren't I a man?”

“There are he elf and she elf, which you are a he, and both of your friends are not elves? This may make the journey more difficult.” Tauriel said seriously. “Lets just hope that the men your friend resides with are not elf hating men, but the hobbits have been known to be civil with everyone. So, it won't be too much of a task.”

This relieved Nolan, “Thank you both so much once again, I just can't believe I found you two in this unknown world. Lucky me!” They all smiled together and continued their journey with urgency, Nolan becoming exceedingly more positive with each step.

Chapter Text

As the horse continues at lightning speed, Foolish is on the back of Gandalf slowly being lulled by the continual galloping. They had been riding this horse for hours in one direction, causing Foolish to become increasingly more bored, even if the scenery is incredible. His eyes fight to stay open as he grips Gandalfs shirt, and snuggles a little closer for warmth from the powerful winds. As he's about to finally make the final step to sleep, the horse comes to a stop so abrupt it almost makes him let go of Gandalf and fly off the horse.

“Well…here we are” Gandalf says with a mysterious enthusiasm. Causing Foolish to look around him to see what he was speaking of, only to see a little clearing in the middle of the forest with a curved rock that was deep and dark inside. Confused foolish starts”Ummm, I thought we were going to the hobbits? Why are we still in the forest”. And for some reason this shocked Gandalf enough to gock at him a little, causing foolish to ask “What? I thought it was a simple question…”

“It is not that the question is not simple it is that it is shockingly ignorant to the real world.” Gandalf replies. Making Foolish a little angry because why was he insulting him when he said he was going to help him? Gandalf of course noticed this and then furthers”How long does it take for you to travel in your world?”. A further confused Foolish answers “Umm…well it depends what your taking like car, plane, train, boat and ummm any other automobile you can probably think of but it usually takes no longer than two days…why? How long does it take people here to get around?”

Gandalf only looked at him with a completely blank face, lost in thought if Foolish should guess. Finally Gandalf starts to move his mouth“We…dont have any of that machinery..here, so it would take anyone about 2 weeks to get from one kingdom or village to another…im sorry to say as your clearly not used to that”

Crestfallen, Foolish looks down at the ground in despair, because if it would take that long to get to Karl and Nolan then who knows what might happen. “Is there really no faster way out there?” Foolish asks full of desperate hope to Gandalf. But Gandalf only smirks and replies “We are on the king of all horses, Shadowfax, if we continue on him we may even get there in less than a week.”

This slightly makes Foolish feel better but he continues to sulk as they get off the horse and move to unpack in the cave. While they do that Shadowfax runs away in a flash, if Foolish had not been looking in that direction he would have missed it. “Why is your horse leaving?” he asks.”Because there is orks about, and they would love to have a taste of such a rare horse as he” Gandalf calmly replies. Making Foolish a little frightened because why was he so calm in that answer?!

Foolish may not remember much from the movies but he's knows orks are supposed to be one of the main villains in them. “Is it really safe to allow him out their alone?” he asks. “Of course, no warg or creature alike can outrun the mighty shadowfax!” 

Calming Foolishes nerves a little he sits down around the fire Gandalf just started as the sky continues to become increasingly dimmer. “If only I would have done something more to have saved us in the first place, then we wouldn't have to go through all this” Foolish thinks, continuing to wallow in his pity party until Gandalf asks. “Who are you and why do you think you were trapped here.”

Foolish again staying true to his name gulps and answers “I haven't even thought about any of that, I don't think I could even answer that if I tried.”. Gandalf looks at him kindly and says “At least you have enough time to think about it during our journey.”. Foolish ponders this statement, looking into the distance hoping with all his might his friend would just appear before him.