Lost Starlight [Book Two]

Chapter Four

Arirua shot straight up, hands instantly reaching for her throat, gasping for air. Her hands met with nothing and she greedily gulped the fresh air. For several minutes, the star just sat very still, breathing deeply. She could see that the dwarves were awake and moving about, but she couldn't bring herself to get up.

After several deep breaths, the star slowly got to her feet. Once on her feet, she started walking through the enormous house. The bees lazily buzzed around her and the oxen grunted as she passed by them. The large strong creatures brought a small smile to her face, even though she was still recovering from the dream.

It was strange, she thought as she stopped to pet one of the oxen's noses, that she remembered the dream this time, unlike all the other times.

The young woman continued to walk through the skin-changer's home, admiring the craftsmanship of everything. Everything was so detailed, covered with carvings of animals, mostly bears. And it was all very large.

"Well, I say we should leg it. Slip out the back way." Arirua heard Nori say. Frowning, the star wrapped her arms around herself and began walking towards the sounds of the dwarves.

"I'm not running from anyone, beast or no." Dwalin snarled. Arirua quietly stood at the back of the group, looking over the group.

"There is no point in arguing." Gandalf said with a raised voice. "We cannot pass through the Wilderland without Beorn's help. We'll be hunted down before we ever get to the forest."

Arirua stood there, confused, but she remained quiet.

"Ah, Bilbo." Gandalf said. Arirua looked over to see the hobbit joining the group. "There you are. Now, this will require some delicate handling. We must tread very carefully. The last person to have startled him was torn to shreds." Several of the dwarves took a step away from the door in fear, as if Beorn himself was about to enter.

"I will go first," Gandalf informed them, "and, uh, Bilbo? You come with me."

Bilbo looked worriedly at Thorin but stopped forward. "Is this a good idea?"

"Yes." Gandalf said simply. "Now, the rest of you, you just wait here and don't come out until I give the signal."

"Right." Bofur said who was currently staring out the window. "Wait for the signal."

"And no sudden moves or loud noises, and don't overcrowd him. And only come out in pairs. Right." Gandalf told the group. There were several murmurs of agreement and understanding. Gandalf turned to leave, but turned back quickly. "No, actually, Bombur, um, you count as two so you should come out alone."

Bombur nodded in agreement.

"And Arirua," Gandalf said, looking back to her, "you come out last and when you do come out, come and stand with me and Bilbo. Do you understand?" The star frowned but nodded. "Good. Remember, wait for the signal."