Categories > TV > Star Trek: Deep Space Nine > Drunken Hobbits and an Irishman
Not Old Gaffer's House Brew
0 reviewsA crossover of Star Trek: Deep Space 9 and Lord of the Rings. This is the sequel to my story Pointy Eared Mischief. While on their way to Valinor, Lord Elrond and others arrive on DS9 after an atta...
0Unrated
Chapter Four: Not Old Gaffer's House Brew
Dax worked quickly at the sensor controls on the bridge of the elves' ship attempting to uplink their computer with DS9's. Worf stood by next to her checking the status of the link with a tricorder. Glorfindel stayed nearby in another chair, staying out of their way as well as the engineers' still hurrying about. He watched intently as the two Starfleet officers worked together but the quiet work was interrupted as a couple familiar voices were heard.
"Do you really have to follow me around?" Major Kira Nerys said as she walked onto the bridge, a silver-haired elf in tow.
"It is of the utmost importance I know who is on this ship," Haldir explained defiantly. "We do not know if all of you are friend of foe."
"She is a friend," Dax said turning around slightly in her chair to look at them. "Kira won't hurt you unless of course you give her reason to do so."
"We shall see," Haldir said before storming off into another corridor.
"What's his problem?" Kira asked incredulously.
"Do not mind his words or actions," Glorfindel explained. "He is just not feeling very useful at the moment."
Kira sighed deeply before walking over to where her friends were working hard.
"How is it coming?" she asked.
"Slowly," Worf mumbled, dissatisfied. "All morning it has been difficult to make the computers connect."
"I think we finally have it," Dax said with some relief.
A moment later, several beeps and sounds went off signaling the exchange of information. Dax inputted a few queries to search the details of the attack on the ship so their own computer could find related information. It did not take long for a matching record to be discovered.
"A Dominion warship," Dax said.
"That coincides with what Lord Elrond was able to tell us as well as his allegations against the Changelings," Worf determined.
"We should go tell the Captain immediately," Kira said as she straightened up from leaning in to look at the console display.
"I'll be right there," Dax said. "I want to make a more complete report for the Captain on the details of the attack. They may prove very useful in the tracking down of the missing people."
Worf and Kira walked out into the corridor to meet with Sisko as Dax stayed behind. Glorfindel also did not leave but instead moved over to where Dax was and sat on the edge of the console next to her.
"If we have the time, perhaps you could share your evening with me?" Glorfindel asked out of the blue.
Dax looked up at him in surprise then smiled gladly.
"That would be nice," she agreed. "What do you have in mind?"
"You can show me this mastery of yours we spoke of earlier," he suggested. "Very few wish to challenge me anymore and I do not wish to lose my abilities over time."
"Then you have a partner to practice with," she said, mirth dancing in her eyes. "I'll come get you if we have the chance and get a holosuite from Quark."
"Holo.. suite?" Glory said unsure.
"You'll see," she said. "Let's go, I'm all done here."
They went along their way back toward Ops so they could meet Sisko and Elrond there. Glorfindel smiled amusingly to himself as he watched Dax out of the corner of his eye next to him. The Trill intrigued him in a very different way than many an elf, man, or dwarf ever did and yet they had just met each other. It was hard for him to discern what it was exactly what drew him to her but he would not fight it.
"Do you believe this information will be helpful in finding Mithrandir and Lady Galadriel?" he asked.
"Hopefully," she answered. "We won't be able to tell too much but if I'm right, which I think I am, Ben will seek Starfleet Command's approval to go on a rescue mission with you."
"They will be convinced by him?" Glorfindel queried.
"Possibly they will. Ben will show them the growing threat to us here that deserves an investigation," she explained. "He might not let on about your people so no questions will be asked."
"That is very kind of him," Glorfindel said with a nod. "Lord Elrond would appreciate any help you may provide."
Soon enough they arrived at Sisko's office and they climbed the steps up to the doors that quickly parted as Sisko called for them to enter. Dax handed over the padd containing the report she had collected. Kira and Worf stood by while Elrond sat in a chair to the side of Sisko's desk.
"Thanks, Old Man," Sisko said taking the report. "I'll let you know if we need anything else."
Glorfindel nodded to her as he went to Elrond's side, obviously needing to consult with him and Sisko about the discoveries and plans. Dax gave a short box of her head in return before leaving to continue working on other duties she had waiting.
*
O'Brien walked along his way in the Promenade avoiding the crowds and peddlers in his path. His shift for the day was done and an evening with the good doctor, Julian Bashir, playing several rounds of darts while having a few drinks too. It was near the Infirmary when he noticed two little people looking around curiously. They were no taller than mere children but looked much older than that. O'Brien recognized them as the hobbits who had arrived with the elves and he wondered why they were wandering about alone.
"Hello," O'Brien warmly greeted them. "Can I help ya fellows with anything or are ya lost?"
"Good evening, Chief O'Brien," the younger hobbit answered. "We were simply looking at some of your wonderful stores here while we waited for Lord Erestor."
It was at that moment that the dark-haired elf lord appeared carrying two jumja sticks. He handed the pyramid shaped popsicles to the two hobbits who happily took them.
"You didn't want one?" O'Brien asked Erestor.
"I am not too fond of sweets," he replied. "If Bilbo and Frodo wish to try them then they shall."
"They are pretty tasty," O'Brien said.
"I will take your and the hobbits' word for it," Erestor said.
"I was about to go grab a couple of pints with my friend if ya boys would like to join us," O'Brien offered, realizing the threesome seemed a little out of place and unsure of where to explore.
"Perhaps another..." Erestor began but was cut off.
"That would be splendid!" Bilbo exclaimed as heartily as he could at his age. "I could use a good evening at a tavern like the old days."
"Uncle, do you think that's wise with your health?" Frodo cautioned.
"It wouldn't hurt, my boy!" he exclaimed. "Lead the way, my good man!"
O'Brien heard Erestor grumble to himself as they followed the Irishman to Quark's. The place was incredibly busy as it tended to be in the evenings but the four managed to get a table because Bashir had arrived earlier to reserve one near the dartboard.
"Julian, I'd like to introduce Lord Erestor, Bilbo and Frodo," O'Brien did the introductions. "They are joining us tonight."
"Nice to meet you all," the young doctor said with his charming smile.
They all acknowledged him with nods and hullos before settling at the table. O'Brien ordered a round of ale for everyone before starting to get ready to play darts.
"The tall one doesn't seem to be in the drinking mood," Bashir whispered to O'Brien.
They looked over to see Erestor staring at his mug of ale strangely after taking a few sips.
"Maybe he'd like to go a few rounds of darts with us," O'Brien thought up.
"Would you care to play with us?" Bashir approached Erestor. "You might like the game."
Erestor looked like he would give in to do anything at the moment since it was currently his job to watch the hobbits and had no choice to leave since they currently were enthralled with some nearby dabo tables and their drinks. Their particular attention was on Rúmil and Orophin playing the gambling game and appeared to be winning.
"I shall," he said stepping up. "What is the goal of the game?"
"You must try to get the darts into the center circle of the board," Bashir explained. "The most points are there but you can still accumulate points from the outer areas. Though they are not nearly as many as the center."
"Simple enough in skill," Erestor said.
O'Brien went first to take his turn. He let each dart fly with an experienced throw and flick of the wrist. He managed a good score landing one in the center and two more on the inner circle. Bashir motioned for Erestor to give it a try next and let the elf step to where O'Brien had been standing at the mark. The elf focused carefully a moment and put his first dart up in his hand. He let it fly and it hit in the very center.
"Good shot!" Bashir said.
"Ya, that was great for a beginner," agreed O'Brien.
Erestor took his place again and let his second and third darts fly, both landing on either side of the first dart in the center.
"That was pretty amazing..." O'Brien said. "I never saw a beginner get three in a row like that."
It was quite clear after a few more turns that Erestor's abilities were much more heightened than the humans had known. Eventually they convinced him to move his mark further back than theirs to at least have some competitiveness. It was also about this time the hobbits had ingested a bit too much of ale.
"I would like to make a toast," Bilbo said, standing a little unsure on his chair to address everyone in the bar. "To my good friends, new and old, here and back home. I thank this grand establishment for their hospitality and would like to treat you fine people with a song of an old, favorite place of my own back in the Shire.
"Uncle, perhaps you should sit down," Frodo pressed Bilbo.
"Come and sing with me, my boy!" Bilbo exclaimed before breaking out into song.
"Oh you can search far and wide,
You can drink the whole town dry.
You'll never find a beer so brown
But you'll never find a beer so brown
As the one we're drinking in our town.
You can kick your fancy ales.
You can drink em by the flagon.
But the only brew for the brave and true . . .
Comes from the Green Dragon!"
Everyone began clapping along after a couple lines and encourage the little hobbit to continue again with another song. Even Frodo finally joined in with the song, being reminded of his departure from his friends who were so fond of the songs. Rúmil and Orophin joined in too with the singing as the entire place began to learn the lyrics of the songs.
"Hey Ho! To the bottle I go,
To heal my heart and drown my woe,
Rain may fall, and wind may blow.
But there still be... many miles to go..."
Hardly did anyone notice the silver-haired elf who entered, gazing at the spectacle with a hard face. It quieted the whole bar though when he knocked over a table with many glasses and mugs, sending everything smashing to the floor.
"How can any of you be merry when Mithrandir and Our Lady are in danger and lost?" Haldir exclaimed in anger. "Your actions are reprehensible."
"Calm yourself, gwador," Rúmil said, stepping in front of Haldir. "It is all in enjoyment."
"Nay! Stay your words, Rúmil. You may wish to drink and play while standing still but I cannot," he spat back.
"Do not worry yourself with us then," Orophin stepped up too. "If you do not want to join us in this light-hearted time, then be gone to leave us without your dampening presence."
Haldir made to go at his brother but, from the second level of the bar, Glorfindel had come and placed himself between the Marchwarden and his brothers.
"It is best for you to calm your temper in the ship," Glorfindel told him, his gaze strong and unflinching yet commanding as well.
The Marchwarden tried to hold the stare but could not, finally glancing away. Without a word, Haldir left and set to go back to his room on the ship.
"Well to keep the spirit going," O'Brien suddenly piped up. "I believe it is time for a good Irish medley.
"As I was a-goin' over Gilgarra Mountain
I spied Colonel Farrell, and his money he was countin'.
First I drew my pistols and then I drew my rapier,
Sayin' "Stand and deliver, for I am your bold receiver."
Musha ringum duram da,
Whack fol the daddy-o,
There's whiskey in the jar..."
Many shook off the somber mood Haldir had brought and joined in the song O'Brien had started but one stayed quiet. Frodo sat still in his chair, staring into his mug with a faraway look.
*****
Glossary
Gwador: Silvan for brother
Lyrics from "The Song of the Green Dragon" and "The Hobbit Drinking Song"
Dax worked quickly at the sensor controls on the bridge of the elves' ship attempting to uplink their computer with DS9's. Worf stood by next to her checking the status of the link with a tricorder. Glorfindel stayed nearby in another chair, staying out of their way as well as the engineers' still hurrying about. He watched intently as the two Starfleet officers worked together but the quiet work was interrupted as a couple familiar voices were heard.
"Do you really have to follow me around?" Major Kira Nerys said as she walked onto the bridge, a silver-haired elf in tow.
"It is of the utmost importance I know who is on this ship," Haldir explained defiantly. "We do not know if all of you are friend of foe."
"She is a friend," Dax said turning around slightly in her chair to look at them. "Kira won't hurt you unless of course you give her reason to do so."
"We shall see," Haldir said before storming off into another corridor.
"What's his problem?" Kira asked incredulously.
"Do not mind his words or actions," Glorfindel explained. "He is just not feeling very useful at the moment."
Kira sighed deeply before walking over to where her friends were working hard.
"How is it coming?" she asked.
"Slowly," Worf mumbled, dissatisfied. "All morning it has been difficult to make the computers connect."
"I think we finally have it," Dax said with some relief.
A moment later, several beeps and sounds went off signaling the exchange of information. Dax inputted a few queries to search the details of the attack on the ship so their own computer could find related information. It did not take long for a matching record to be discovered.
"A Dominion warship," Dax said.
"That coincides with what Lord Elrond was able to tell us as well as his allegations against the Changelings," Worf determined.
"We should go tell the Captain immediately," Kira said as she straightened up from leaning in to look at the console display.
"I'll be right there," Dax said. "I want to make a more complete report for the Captain on the details of the attack. They may prove very useful in the tracking down of the missing people."
Worf and Kira walked out into the corridor to meet with Sisko as Dax stayed behind. Glorfindel also did not leave but instead moved over to where Dax was and sat on the edge of the console next to her.
"If we have the time, perhaps you could share your evening with me?" Glorfindel asked out of the blue.
Dax looked up at him in surprise then smiled gladly.
"That would be nice," she agreed. "What do you have in mind?"
"You can show me this mastery of yours we spoke of earlier," he suggested. "Very few wish to challenge me anymore and I do not wish to lose my abilities over time."
"Then you have a partner to practice with," she said, mirth dancing in her eyes. "I'll come get you if we have the chance and get a holosuite from Quark."
"Holo.. suite?" Glory said unsure.
"You'll see," she said. "Let's go, I'm all done here."
They went along their way back toward Ops so they could meet Sisko and Elrond there. Glorfindel smiled amusingly to himself as he watched Dax out of the corner of his eye next to him. The Trill intrigued him in a very different way than many an elf, man, or dwarf ever did and yet they had just met each other. It was hard for him to discern what it was exactly what drew him to her but he would not fight it.
"Do you believe this information will be helpful in finding Mithrandir and Lady Galadriel?" he asked.
"Hopefully," she answered. "We won't be able to tell too much but if I'm right, which I think I am, Ben will seek Starfleet Command's approval to go on a rescue mission with you."
"They will be convinced by him?" Glorfindel queried.
"Possibly they will. Ben will show them the growing threat to us here that deserves an investigation," she explained. "He might not let on about your people so no questions will be asked."
"That is very kind of him," Glorfindel said with a nod. "Lord Elrond would appreciate any help you may provide."
Soon enough they arrived at Sisko's office and they climbed the steps up to the doors that quickly parted as Sisko called for them to enter. Dax handed over the padd containing the report she had collected. Kira and Worf stood by while Elrond sat in a chair to the side of Sisko's desk.
"Thanks, Old Man," Sisko said taking the report. "I'll let you know if we need anything else."
Glorfindel nodded to her as he went to Elrond's side, obviously needing to consult with him and Sisko about the discoveries and plans. Dax gave a short box of her head in return before leaving to continue working on other duties she had waiting.
*
O'Brien walked along his way in the Promenade avoiding the crowds and peddlers in his path. His shift for the day was done and an evening with the good doctor, Julian Bashir, playing several rounds of darts while having a few drinks too. It was near the Infirmary when he noticed two little people looking around curiously. They were no taller than mere children but looked much older than that. O'Brien recognized them as the hobbits who had arrived with the elves and he wondered why they were wandering about alone.
"Hello," O'Brien warmly greeted them. "Can I help ya fellows with anything or are ya lost?"
"Good evening, Chief O'Brien," the younger hobbit answered. "We were simply looking at some of your wonderful stores here while we waited for Lord Erestor."
It was at that moment that the dark-haired elf lord appeared carrying two jumja sticks. He handed the pyramid shaped popsicles to the two hobbits who happily took them.
"You didn't want one?" O'Brien asked Erestor.
"I am not too fond of sweets," he replied. "If Bilbo and Frodo wish to try them then they shall."
"They are pretty tasty," O'Brien said.
"I will take your and the hobbits' word for it," Erestor said.
"I was about to go grab a couple of pints with my friend if ya boys would like to join us," O'Brien offered, realizing the threesome seemed a little out of place and unsure of where to explore.
"Perhaps another..." Erestor began but was cut off.
"That would be splendid!" Bilbo exclaimed as heartily as he could at his age. "I could use a good evening at a tavern like the old days."
"Uncle, do you think that's wise with your health?" Frodo cautioned.
"It wouldn't hurt, my boy!" he exclaimed. "Lead the way, my good man!"
O'Brien heard Erestor grumble to himself as they followed the Irishman to Quark's. The place was incredibly busy as it tended to be in the evenings but the four managed to get a table because Bashir had arrived earlier to reserve one near the dartboard.
"Julian, I'd like to introduce Lord Erestor, Bilbo and Frodo," O'Brien did the introductions. "They are joining us tonight."
"Nice to meet you all," the young doctor said with his charming smile.
They all acknowledged him with nods and hullos before settling at the table. O'Brien ordered a round of ale for everyone before starting to get ready to play darts.
"The tall one doesn't seem to be in the drinking mood," Bashir whispered to O'Brien.
They looked over to see Erestor staring at his mug of ale strangely after taking a few sips.
"Maybe he'd like to go a few rounds of darts with us," O'Brien thought up.
"Would you care to play with us?" Bashir approached Erestor. "You might like the game."
Erestor looked like he would give in to do anything at the moment since it was currently his job to watch the hobbits and had no choice to leave since they currently were enthralled with some nearby dabo tables and their drinks. Their particular attention was on Rúmil and Orophin playing the gambling game and appeared to be winning.
"I shall," he said stepping up. "What is the goal of the game?"
"You must try to get the darts into the center circle of the board," Bashir explained. "The most points are there but you can still accumulate points from the outer areas. Though they are not nearly as many as the center."
"Simple enough in skill," Erestor said.
O'Brien went first to take his turn. He let each dart fly with an experienced throw and flick of the wrist. He managed a good score landing one in the center and two more on the inner circle. Bashir motioned for Erestor to give it a try next and let the elf step to where O'Brien had been standing at the mark. The elf focused carefully a moment and put his first dart up in his hand. He let it fly and it hit in the very center.
"Good shot!" Bashir said.
"Ya, that was great for a beginner," agreed O'Brien.
Erestor took his place again and let his second and third darts fly, both landing on either side of the first dart in the center.
"That was pretty amazing..." O'Brien said. "I never saw a beginner get three in a row like that."
It was quite clear after a few more turns that Erestor's abilities were much more heightened than the humans had known. Eventually they convinced him to move his mark further back than theirs to at least have some competitiveness. It was also about this time the hobbits had ingested a bit too much of ale.
"I would like to make a toast," Bilbo said, standing a little unsure on his chair to address everyone in the bar. "To my good friends, new and old, here and back home. I thank this grand establishment for their hospitality and would like to treat you fine people with a song of an old, favorite place of my own back in the Shire.
"Uncle, perhaps you should sit down," Frodo pressed Bilbo.
"Come and sing with me, my boy!" Bilbo exclaimed before breaking out into song.
"Oh you can search far and wide,
You can drink the whole town dry.
You'll never find a beer so brown
But you'll never find a beer so brown
As the one we're drinking in our town.
You can kick your fancy ales.
You can drink em by the flagon.
But the only brew for the brave and true . . .
Comes from the Green Dragon!"
Everyone began clapping along after a couple lines and encourage the little hobbit to continue again with another song. Even Frodo finally joined in with the song, being reminded of his departure from his friends who were so fond of the songs. Rúmil and Orophin joined in too with the singing as the entire place began to learn the lyrics of the songs.
"Hey Ho! To the bottle I go,
To heal my heart and drown my woe,
Rain may fall, and wind may blow.
But there still be... many miles to go..."
Hardly did anyone notice the silver-haired elf who entered, gazing at the spectacle with a hard face. It quieted the whole bar though when he knocked over a table with many glasses and mugs, sending everything smashing to the floor.
"How can any of you be merry when Mithrandir and Our Lady are in danger and lost?" Haldir exclaimed in anger. "Your actions are reprehensible."
"Calm yourself, gwador," Rúmil said, stepping in front of Haldir. "It is all in enjoyment."
"Nay! Stay your words, Rúmil. You may wish to drink and play while standing still but I cannot," he spat back.
"Do not worry yourself with us then," Orophin stepped up too. "If you do not want to join us in this light-hearted time, then be gone to leave us without your dampening presence."
Haldir made to go at his brother but, from the second level of the bar, Glorfindel had come and placed himself between the Marchwarden and his brothers.
"It is best for you to calm your temper in the ship," Glorfindel told him, his gaze strong and unflinching yet commanding as well.
The Marchwarden tried to hold the stare but could not, finally glancing away. Without a word, Haldir left and set to go back to his room on the ship.
"Well to keep the spirit going," O'Brien suddenly piped up. "I believe it is time for a good Irish medley.
"As I was a-goin' over Gilgarra Mountain
I spied Colonel Farrell, and his money he was countin'.
First I drew my pistols and then I drew my rapier,
Sayin' "Stand and deliver, for I am your bold receiver."
Musha ringum duram da,
Whack fol the daddy-o,
There's whiskey in the jar..."
Many shook off the somber mood Haldir had brought and joined in the song O'Brien had started but one stayed quiet. Frodo sat still in his chair, staring into his mug with a faraway look.
*****
Glossary
Gwador: Silvan for brother
Lyrics from "The Song of the Green Dragon" and "The Hobbit Drinking Song"
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