#its why he and Bilbo get along so well

[minecraftian1213]

Bro is half-elven and he was so far ahead of them it was hilarious

the 0.3 second shot of elrond absolutely booking it through the woods while his entire company is lagging half a mile behind him is so funny to me. no magic ring or anything, he's just powered by the sheer determination to say I FUCKING TOLD YOU SOOOOOOOOOO

[aerynoakenshield]

[Thorin Oakenshield] - Until The End

♫ - Falling - Harry Styles

Middle Earth was a sight. There were so many different landscapes, so much flora and fauna surrounding you each moment. You discovered things in the wild areas that you otherwise may not have known existed if you kept to your own home, or at the very least never seen with your own eyes. The grounds of this world were made for exploration, but admittedly, in small doses. 

It had been a grueling trip to get to Rivendell, and still you had yet to arrive. Long nights paired with exhausting walks meant that tensions had run high in the company. Petty arguments that were over by sundown sprung between members of the party, even those who otherwise had no business being angry with each other. It was simply exhaustion taking over.

On Thorin's recommendation, which was more of an order, you had all stopped for the night in a cave, well out of the sight and smell of any orc packs that may be lurking above ground. Going against Gandalf's better judgement due to Thorin's inability to listen to the wizard, and anyone else for that matter, a fire had been started and food was on its way.

Taking some time away from the bustle of camp being set up, you sat away from everyone else and closed your eyes, entering a small state of meditation in order to try and relax. Despite your love for adventure and being very used to always being on the move, this journey thus far had even started to get to you. 

"You alright there, hey?" A familiar voice broke you out of your rest, and you turned to see Bofur, stood with a bowl of food in his hand. "Here, get this down ya."

"Thanks, Bofur. I'm alright."

Lies. Bofur knew it. You hadn't been fine for some time. When this journey had started, when you had all met at Bilbo's home, you were excited and spry. You couldn't wait for the adventure that lay outside the door. Now, it was different. Now, you were not even sure if you wanted to continue. 

"Aye, you'll excuse me if I don't believe ya, right?"

You chuckled, a look of defeat on your face. You had become close to Bofur on this trip, him and Balin had become almost father figures to you. They were always trying their best to keep your spirits high as you did for everyone else. Much to your dismay, Bofur could now read you like a open book.

"I will," you sighed, shaking your head and beginning to eat as the dwarf joined you with his own food. "Sometimes I fear you know me better than I know myself."

Bofur bumped arms with you and laughed. "Go on, tell me what's wrong."

You thought for a second, pondering whether or not to lie again or just talk to him. Realising that he was actually there to help you, and lying to him seemed futile, you began to talk. 

"Thorin."

Bofur nodded, not wanting to interrupt whatever flow you may get into, but acknowledging what you had said. He knew how tense things were between you and Thorin. 

"I just don't know why he hates me so much, Bofur. I have been nothing but kind to him and I get his temper and anger in return. I cannot help who I am, but I harbour no ill-will to any of you. I do want to see you all finally have a home."

Your voice had cracked at the end, a sign of high emotion from you. Bofur placed a hand on your knee, he had not been blind to Thorin and his attitude towards you.

 It had been like that from the start, and you knew it was because you were an Elf. As a child, you grew up surrounded by those of your own kind, but as you studied and read texts from other kingdoms, adventure had called to you. Gandalf came to you with the opportunity of helping the dwarves reclaim their homeland, and you were all too quick to join him. What you hadn't expected, was for the head of the company to seemingly want you to disappear. 

Nobody else had ill feelings towards you, and you got along with everyone; even Dwalin, who was grumpy most of the time, but after he had saved your life a few days back, it seemed as though his heart had opened up to you more. It was just Thorin.

Balin took you aside two nights back, after he saw you crying as you rode through the forest. That day, Thorin had shouted at you, telling you that 'an Elf does not belong on a trip to reclaim a home that they helped destroy.' For some reason, that stung you deep down. You were not there that day, nor was it your kin on that battlefield either. You were not to blame, and Balin had told you that. He brought you a drink and sat with you, explaining why Thorin acted the way he did and of his past. 

From that night until present moment, you had been kinder to the dwarf than ever before, and it still hadn't been enough. That's what had led to you sitting here with Bofur now, silent contemplation and comforting words filling the air. 

"Listen here," Bofur began, collecting your bowl from you and taking your hands in his own. "You are an asset to this company, believe me. I've never seen someone fight so well with sword and bow. You and Kili work like a charm with those arrows. You've saved our lives multiple times, you keep us cheery when you can. We appreciate ya, we really do. And deep down, I think Thorin does, too."

"He certainly has a funny way of showing it."

"Aye, he does," Bofur agreed. "He certainly does. But, I think you should just talk to him. As I came down, he was on his watch, so if you're lucky maybe you can take him his food and sort this out?"

You shuddered thinking about it. The last thing you needed tonight was to be barked at for merely existing from him. It had been a long day, but as you looked at Bofur before you, you nodded. 

"Alright, I'll do that."

Giving you a hug, Bofur placed a reassuring hand on your shoulder, giving it a squeeze. Standing, you both made your way back to the party and you met Balin by the fire. 

"Can I take a bowl for Thorin, Balin?" you asked, voice low so only he could hear. The last thing you wanted was for anyone, namely Fili or Kili, to make any jokes or remarks right now. Balin's eyebrows raised, but he smiled kindly, handing you a bowl with the spoon.

"Here you go, thank you for taking it." Balin always had been kind to you. Before you could leave, he leaned in to your ear and whispered.

"And good luck." Balin pulled back with a friendly wink, and you could feel that he was trying to calm your nerves. You shook your head with a smile and left.

You had reached the outskirts of the camp and peered around the trees covering the entrance of the cave your company were in, wondering where the young dwarf was for his watch. Normally, he walked up and down, but this time you found him leaning on a rock, gazing out into the planes before him. 

You took a second to look at him, face aglow in the pale moonlight. He looked like a King. He looked beautiful. This wasn't a new thought for you, you had realised that when he turned up at Bilbo's door. There was something different about him to the others. Maybe it was the way he carried himself, or the way his face was a perfect balanced of harsh and soft. Either way, the view before you was something to behold. 

"I know you're there, you know?" Thorin's deep voice pulled you from your thoughts, and his head turned, bright blue eyes meeting yours as you swiftly pulled your away. You couldn't hold eye contact at the best of times, let alone now. 

"My apologies, Thorin, I did not want to make you jump. I thought you might want some food, you need to eat."

Thorin continued to look at you, and if you were looking back you may have noticed his gaze had softened. Taking some steps aside, he made room for you to lean with him on the rock, inviting you over with a wave of his hand.

"Thank you, if you wish to join me, you can."

You couldn't process that for a second. He wants me to stay?  you thought. 

Taking a seat on the grass, you handed him the food and drew your weapon, resting your bow across the length of his sword. Thorin spoke before he had started to eat, looking at you with care. 

"Have you eaten something?" the dwarf asked, concern hinting in his voice.

"I have, thank you. Bofur brought me something not too long ago. I just wanted to make sure you had eaten, too."

Thorin nodded, and began eating his food. Silence fell around you, but it wasn't uncomfortable for the first time. It was soothing. You were in each others company and not fighting, which was a first. As you both sat, Thorin let his mind wander as his eyes roamed the fields.

In his heart, the dwarf knew he had been unfair to you, that his actions had been irredeemable, and overall he had been less than pleasant with you. Truly, he had no bad feeling toward you. It was quite the contrary. 

When Thorin had entered Bilbo's home, he saw his kin before him, but off to the side something else had caught his eye. The last thing he was expecting was an elf to be present, considering the longstanding history between your races. His eyes met yours, and Thorin couldn't deny the feeling he got. He couldn't deny to himself, he thought you were very pretty. A thought Thorin never assumed he would have towards an elf, having had nothing but disdain for them since the incident with King Thranduil. Still, his heart could not deny no matter how hard his brain may try. 

Through the meeting, his eyes darted to you often, finding himself unable to keep them from you. Somewhere inside, there was a small part of himself angry that he would allow such thoughts, especially because the whole reason they were there was partly down to elvish actions. 

Thorin never wanted to be harsh with you, and he never meant for it to go so far. But, in his mind he was battling those feelings that conflicted each other and it was weighing down upon him. He wanted to feel worthy of his ancestors, and perhaps he thought harboring any form of love or admiration for an elf was the worst thing he could do. 

Bringing himself back to the present, he placed his bowl aside, and took a small glance at you. In the night's low light, your features lit up and you appeared more ethereal than normal. In the day to day, you always had an air of grace about you, and you always seemed to glow with a natural beauty. But the moon enhanced that, and Thorin found it hard to tear his gaze away. 

"Look," the dwarf began, and you hummed but kept yourself still, unmoving. "You know I don't think of you harshly. I know my actions haven't made that clear, but I do mean it."

You sighed. "I don't know what I did to deserve that treatment, Thorin."

Mahal, he loved the way you said his name. Never had it been so soft. But now was not the time for those thoughts, as he replied to you as honest and open as he could.

"You did nothing, I was acting out of grudge. There are elves I have a right to hate, but I know you are not one of them. I let my worst side take charge with you, and I hope you can forgive that. I am sorry for how I have treated. You have shown nothing but kindness, you have saved lives in this company, and I have still treated you horrendously. If you couldn't see past that, I would understand. But, I just wanted to let you know."

Now, your eyes fell upon the dwarf, and he seemed sorrowful. It seemed so genuine, a very rare glimpse into the vulnerable and unguarded side of Thorin Oakenshield. 

"If I could not see past that, I would have been gone long ago."

Thorin's eyes met yours, and you had a kind glint in them. Your smiled, only half way, and glanced at your hands as you fiddled with your knife holster, idly playing with the loose leather pieces. You talked again, low and personal, making sure he knew every word was for him and hoping you could be as transparent as he just was. 

"I want to see you on that throne, you know? I do wish to see you all reclaim your home. I cannot imagine what such a thing must feel like, as I have always had a home. But, you had yours taken away, and I took this task before I had met any of you. I think your company are a wonderful set of people, I have become very fond of all of them."

Thorin smiled too, thinking of his party back in the cave. 

"And," you finished off, slightly hesitantly. "I think they have the best leader they could in you. You are the rightful king under the mountain, and I will not stop at anything until I know you sit where you should."

"You really think that?" Thorin sounded almost unsure. 

"I would not have said it if I meant otherwise."

For a moment, you both sat without talking, simply taking in the ambience around you. For the first time ever, there was no malice in the air when you were in each other's company. As your hands looped and twisted the leather still, a bigger hand took one of yours and rested in your lap. Shocked at the gesture, you looked over to Thorin, whose eyes were firmly ahead. Taking a step of your own, you shuffled into him closer, your legs and bodies touching. You could swear you felt him relax. 

"I must confess something," Thorin's voice broke the air. "I thought you were beautiful when I first saw you."

"Oh?" you replied, seemingly surprised. "Me?"

"Yes, you. I could not take my eyes off you for that entire meeting. You have been in my thoughts ever since we left The Shire. It would seem I cannot get you out of my mind."

Your hand tightened around his, turning to entwine your fingers in with his own. It was then you noticed just how big his hands really were; they were almost twice the size of your own. Your other hand traced the rings he wore, your gentle touch sending a feeling through his whole body that he failed to describe.

"I have thought of you often, too. Even after all the fights, all of the arguments. I have thought about the dwarf that may be hidden under all of that, the kind Thorin that I am convinced is in there."

He let out a hearty chuckle, one that seemed less of humour and more of a tension relief. Finally, he was cleared of this weight on his shoulders. 

"Then perhaps you should find that out for yourself."

Before you had a chance to answer his playful remark, Thorin's hand lifted to hold your face, rubbing his thumb across your cheek. His hand came to rest on your jaw, and as he leaned in he stopped just before your lips, waiting for your permission to carry on. Without hesitation, you closed your eyes and pressed your lips to his. Knowing you were fine with it, Thorin pulled you closer and deepened the kiss, though still remaining soft. 

You both knew your guards being dropped like this was not good, but in the moment, neither of you cared. It was only a minute or so, and the company were safe. Pulling back, Thorin rested his forehead against your own as you regained your breath. Say what you will, he is an excellent kisser. 

"Thorin," you breathed out, not wanting to ruin the tender moment. 

"Are we friends now then?" he asked, a smug tone lacing his words as he smirked at you. 

"I think we are a little more than friends right now."

You had laughed and Thorin followed suit, and as you continued watch with him, his arm came to rest around your shoulders, occasionally playing with a loose strand of your hair. Your head leaned onto his shoulder. 

"What do you think the future holds, Thorin? After you reclaim Erebor, what then?"

You heard him sigh, and his gaze fell upon the sky as he rested his head against the rock. 

"I would think a focus on building back homes, creating a safe place for people to work and live among each other. Once word is sent to the other dwarves, perhaps then we can create the community that once was there. But in truth, I do not know."

Thorin was uncertain, mostly of the future just ahead, never mind the future that far in front. 

"But," he began, now looking down at you as your eyes met. "I do know that I would quite like you by my side through it all."

You said nothing in reply, choosing instead to lean into him and capture his lips in a gentle kiss. Thorin's hand wound itself into your hair as he deepened the kiss. Without thought, you pulled him closer and you both got lost in each other for those few moments. Right here, nothing else mattered, nothing else was real. It was you and him, in each other's embrace and for the first time in so long, at ease. 

You spent the rest of the night with each other on guard, allowing the company some decent rest, and from that day on you had vowed to always be there with Thorin Oakenshield until the very end. 

Thank you for reading! <3

[emyn-arnens]

In Darkness Buried Deep

Frodo & Sam | G | ~900 words | @lotrweek day 5: "here with me" | AO3

Frodo’s skin melted like wax. He burned and burned until there was nothing left of him but ash that floated away on the wind.

But even so, he still burned. His spirit, laid bare before the Eye, caught fire and trembled. The flames licked at him, all consuming, until he was hollowed, worn thin like clothing worn to mere threads that when held up to the sun cannot hide its light.

He shook from the force of the transformation, trembling and bare before the merciless Eye. His hand burned.

“Mr. Frodo!” Sam’s voice pierced through the veil of horror. “Mr. Frodo!” He shook Frodo.

Frodo scrubbed a hand over his face, his mind still caught somewhere between nightmare and waking. His hand curled around something warm. It flared against his fingers but did not burn, and a light pierced through the last lingering webs of horror.

“I’m sorry to wake you, Mr. Frodo, but we have to be getting on.” Sam peered at him closely, worry stitching his brows together as tight as a seam. He paused and looked closer at Frodo, his eyes fixed on Frodo’s chest.

Instinctively, Frodo clutched the Ring with his free hand. It was cool and soothing against his palm. He drew away from Sam, mistrusting the look in his eyes. 

Sam’s gaze turned thoughtful. “Do you remember Bilbo’s song in Rivendell about Eärendil? When I heard it, I never would have thought that one day we’d have a bit of Eärendil with us.” He nodded to Frodo’s chest. 

Frodo looked down at his hand, still held against his chest. In it was the star glass. Sam must have tucked it in his hand while Frodo slept, sensing the dark paths Frodo wandered in his sleep. And unknowingly, Frodo had clutched the star-glass to his chest, as if it were a ward against the darkness. The glass now burned as if it were living flame, casting its light about them in a pale bloom and forcing the gloom of Mordor to recede.

“I never would have thought I’d be part of one of the great stories. Me, a gardener! But it makes the task easier, doesn’t it, to think of Eärendil helping us, even though he’s sailing where we can’t go, up high above the clouds in his star-ship, and we’re down here, picking our way along paths no sensible hobbit would take.”

Something long-buried unfurled in Frodo’s heart. “Yes, Sam, I suppose it does.”

Sam paused, thoughtful. “I suppose you could even say Eärendil was sent to us, just as the Valar sent him in his star-ship to help Middle-earth long ago. And maybe that means that even now the Valar still watch and send help, even though they’ve removed themselves from Middle-earth and dwell where no man can go.” Warmth spilled over Sam’s brown face like sunlight shifting between clouds. 

“Why, think of it, Mr. Frodo!” he cried. “Maybe they’re helping us, even here in this dreadful land of rocks and fumes. Us! Helped by the Valar!” He stuck his thumbs behind his suspenders and beamed. “I wonder what my old Gaffer would have to say about that! That I’m putting myself above my station, most like, and taking part in things grander than us plain folk should be involved in. ‘Sam Gamgee,’ he’d say, ‘if you head weren’t stuffed so full of nonsense and foolishness, you’d do better remembering your place.’” Sam rocked back on his heels. “The Valar!”

Frodo's lips moved in the memory of a smile, the movement foreign and wearying. The star-glass, warm against his palm, still shone in his hand, light welling between his fingers. He clasped his hand tightly around it, then slipped the star-glass beneath his tunic against his heart and took courage from the warmth seeping into his heart.

He closed his eyes and let his mind wander from the dark land they passed through. His mind stepped toward the familiar places of home, as it had when he was imprisoned in the tower, but their names were nothing more than memories with no meaning, and he saw nothing but darkness. Still, the names, though featureless, were a faint comfort, and he let his mind linger upon them, remembering why he had set out on this hopeless quest. The Brandywine, the market at Bywater, Woody End, Hobbiton—they had meant something to him once, and he seized hold of them.

He stirred. “Thank you, Sam,” he murmured and withdrew the star-glass from his tunic. The light in it had gone dark, and it looked now like nothing more than a phial of clear water. “Keep this safe for me.”

Sam helped him to his feet, and Frodo peered at the barren land, pitted with rocks and craters and ringed by a red sky, that stretched before and around them. His feet moved with renewed purpose, and his heart no longer hung as a weight in his chest. And though he could not bring himself to hope, for the embers of his hope had died to ashes in his chest, he could reach out and clasp Sam’s hope as a rope leading him through the darkness.

[lucigoo]

Weekly Roundup 1st July - 31st July

As we can tell, im way behind, so it will be a monthly round up until I catch up, and then back to weekly. Especally as I plan to do a mish mosh version of Nano, hoping to write 50,000 words, but finishing as many of my current wips as I can (theres a few)

So, July, I uploaded 8 fics with 19,043 words between them. As aways, recs first and then my fics under the cut <3

The Last to Know - kathkin - The Hobbit (Jackson Movies) (Bilbo/Thorin, its full of fun homour)

Summary: “I think you ought to know,” said Gandalf, “you have eight or nine dwarves courting you.” / "Now, I think I would have noticed!" In which dwarves have a very particular way of courting, Ori thinks Bilbo has a nice bottom, Thorin is an awkward puppy, and Bilbo learns that sometimes actions speak louder than words.

custodial - PenAndInkPrincess - Wiedźmin | The Witcher - All Media Types (Geralt/Jaskier)

Summary: Ciri finds Jaskier first and Geralt only comes along later

Jaskier is not handling co-parenting well

A Future Together - Slayer_of_Destiny - Wiedźmin | The Witcher - All Media Types (Geralt/Jaskier)

Summary: When Jaskier ends up at Kaer Morhen for the winter, something unexpected happens when he goes into heat, something that only happens when an Omega is around an Alpha they trust, and somewhere they feel safe. The future after this heat is going to change both Jaskier and Geralt's lives forever.

For Better or For Worse - loflight501 - The Witcher (TV) (Geralt/Jaskier)

Summary: King Geralt wants to end the war with Redania, but the only way to do it is to marry the omega son of his hated foe. Prince Jaskier is thrilled to be free of his abusive father, but isn't optimistic about marrying a king with a brutal reputation.

Chiaroscuro - krabapple - Harry Potter - J. K. Rowling (Sirius/Remus)

Summary: Remus Lupin returns to Hogwarts as the Defense Against the Dark Arts Professor after the Battle of Hogwarts, and finds a year where he and his students struggle with the leftover contrast between light and darkness.

I hope everyone has a wonderful month and my fics are under the cut as promised <3

I have 8 fics for this month uploaded, I hope you all like at least one.

I love you as you are (Sirius/Remus, written for a prompt for the @marauderswithpalestineproject)

Summary: During the war Bella cursed Sirius, now he is a dog hybird. A dog hybrid who hides it from everyone but Remus and Harry in their home.

Now he is stranded in London with no way to get home.

Don't look into my soul if you just want to steal it (Sirius/Remus, Sirius & Regulus)

Summary: Walburga Black wants a perfect heir. Instead she had one ugly child and one willful one.

She will do what she must to make sure neither boy ruins the Black Legacy. No matter the cost to those involved.

Mahal hear my plea. I'm ready for you to take me home with thee! (Gen fic, Dis & Dwalin)

Summary: Dis has survived the Ring War. Her and Dwalin both.

Both are ready to go to the Hall's of Mahal. Both are old and the only one the other has left.

Dis wants to go home to her family. Will Mahal hear her plea?

Fear is a Sickness:Witchers are the cure (Geralt/Jaksier, wirtten for @flashfictionfridayofficial's prompt - Fear is a sickness)

Summary: Cirliia is safe, Voleth Meir is gone and yet the surviving Witchers still have to send their fallen brothers off.

So much grief, so much pain, but at least these witchers have a bard to sing them farwell.

Flight of Destiny (Female Sirius/Remus, a fic written for my beloved @brandileigh2003 <3)

Summary: Sirius is finally free of her abusive husband. As a widower she has gone on her first muggle holiday. On the way home she meets the love of her life.

Mahal, Why Have you Forsaken Me? (Gen fic, Dis & her giref)

Summary: Dis is packing up the things of her children's that she will take to Erebor with her. Things they will never need again. Things that are all she has left of them.

Maybe one more, baby? (Sirius/Remus, written for @flashfictionfridayofficial's prompt - mybe one more)

Summary: Sirius and Remus are watching their son, Teddy Lupin-Black, as he graduates Hogwarts, their family surrounding them as they do so.

I burn with a smile on my face, for you are safe (Jaskier & Cirilla, unrequented Jaskier/Geralt, written for @flashfictionfridayofficial's prompt run fast and far)

Summary: Jaskier found Cirilla first and he will protect her, no matter the cost

[sunnyrosewritesstuff]

Dance of Romance + Everybody Knows/Mistaken for Couple

Sounds difficult, doesn't it? 😂

Trying to warm-up and answer some of these older asks, but as usual got carried away a bit. 😅 There were so many options to take this one, Razzy, so I decided to make this the prequel to this one-shot I did for "Year of Bagginshield".

Please enjoy Bilbo and Thorin fake dating at Prim and Drogo's wedding.

“Chocolate or vanilla?” 

“Oh Thorin. You should know me well enough by now.”

The taller boy smirked before sliding the chocolate cake over in front of Bilbo and taking the seat next to him.

“I at least want a bite.” Thorin demanded, reaching over with his fork. “It’s only fair since you sent me up to the table all alone.”

Bilbo huffed as he reached over to steal a piece of Thorin’s cake in return.

“Yes, I’m sure it was such a hard ship having all of my single cousins flirting with you.”

Thorin laughed. “They weren’t flirting. They all think I’m dating you.”

Bilbo froze and Thorin used it as an opportunity to steal another bite.

“The icing on the chocolate is amazing by the way.” 

“I know! That’s why I requested it.” Bilbo complained, pulling his plate out of Thorin’s way.

His blue eyes twinkled in mirth, and Bilbo just about melted under such a gaze. Instead he stuffed his face with another forkful of cake.

“Well…that should at least keep my aunts off my back for the rest of the evening.” Bilbo commented, finally feeling brave enough to circle back to the ‘dating’ comment.

“And what do I get from pretending to be your boyfriend, Baggins?” Thorin drawled, absent-mindedly scrapping his fork against his plate.

“I’ll help you get the new bartender’s number at Bombur’s place.”

Thorin snorted. “The blonde with the sixpack? Not my type.”

“Sexy and available? Whatever was I thinking…”

“I’ll settle for a dance though?”

Bilbo blinked in shock as his brain went into overdrive trying to determine Thorin’s motives. However, the more he thought about it, the more he had to question whether it was possible for Thorin to like him back.

“A dance? Why?” He asked, his throat impossibly dry.

Thorin smirked as he pulled Bilbo to his feet. “Because that’s what boyfriends do.”

Bilbo’s heart was thundering. So much so, he feared it might just give out. What was happening right now? Bilbo wasn’t even completely aware of the song as he went along with Thorin’s movements easily. The hand on his hip searing its touch into his flesh. He forced himself to make eye contact and not focus on the icing he wanted to lick off the corner of Thorin’s mouth. 

“I want the big bedroom.” Thorin announced quite suddenly.

It was enough to give Bilbo whiplash trying to determine what exactly he was talking about when it dawned on him. A quick glance over to Bilbo’s aunts, looking right at them and cooing, was confirmation enough, and Bilbo felt oddly cold at the realization. This was still a part of the act.

“You’re the worst.” Bilbo smirked.

However, he realized a small amount of bitterness had seeped in by the surprise in Thorin’s eyes.

“Come on, Baggins.” Thorin scoffed with a roll of his perfectly blue eyes. “You know it makes more sense with all of my workout equipment.”

Bilbo stared at him for a long moment before heaving a drawn sigh. 

“I’m going to put my head on your shoulder now, and you’re going to lay yours on top of my head, got it?”

Thorin flinched just a bit, getting out of rhythm. “What?”

Bilbo bent forward ever so slowly doing exactly what he said he was going to. Pushing their bodies closer. Hesitantly, he felt Thorin follow through on his part, putting them in the perfect position for Bilbo to whisper in his ear.

“I’ll do it. On one condition.”

Thorin snorted softly. “You clearly don’t get the concept of ‘owing a favor’ do you?”

“You have to call me Bilbo from now on. We’re not in uni anymore. We’re about to move into a flat together. I think it’s deserving.”

Thorin huffed a laugh that tickled the hairs at the back of Bilbo’s neck leaving goosebumps in its wake.

“Fine. Bilbo it is.”

Bilbo squeezed his eyes closed knowing Thorin couldn’t see and willed away any potential fondness he had for this man. He would make his peace in settling for Thorin’s ‘best friend’ and that would be that. As the song ended, Bilbo pulled back, schooling his features back to teasing even if he could feel the mistiness at the corners of his eyes. 

“Come on. You didn’t let me finish my cake.” Bilbo complained.

Thorin laughed as he let his arms fall until he was merely grasping Bilbo’s hand.

“How rude of me.”

“Yes, well, I’ve learned you can’t help it sometimes.”

Thorin bumped Bilbo’s shoulder with his, nearly sending the smaller man flying and causing him to squawk indignantly while Thorin just stood there smirking.

“Oh, Bilbo Dear!”

Bilbo looked up to see his Aunt Mirabella running towards him. He gave Thorin a pleading look, and while he had to roll his blue eyes, Thorin moved his arm to Bilbo’s hip, pulling him in close.

“Isn’t it such a beautiful wedding?” Mirabella sighed dreamily.

“Yes, I think Drogo is going to be very good for Prim.” Bilbo remarked looking up at the happy couple fondly.

“He’s just a lovely lad.” Mirabella cooed, laying her hand on Bilbo’s arm. “Not unlike your new beau…”

“Auntie Mira, please.” Bilbo whined.

“Now none of that! We were all very delighted to see you actually brought someone and so handsome too.”

Bilbo thought he might just die, especially when Thorin tightened his grip just slightly as he thanked his aunt.

“Here, this is for you two.” She stated pressing money into Bilbo’s hands. More accurately, a hundred.

“Aunt Mira! What in the world?!” Bilbo gasped.

“You two just got a place together, right? Or at least that’s what Prim said. Gorby and I want to help you two get started so if you need anything please don’t hesitate to call. So lovely to see you again, Dear.”

With that, Bilbo and Thorin were left gaping at the crisp bill in their hands.

“So maybe it would be within our benefit to milk this ‘fake boyfriend’ thing out a little longer.” Thorin remarked.

“Thorin? Are you actually suggesting we take advantage of my relatives in such a dishonest way?” Bilbo paused for only a second before a wicked grin stole across his face. “Because my Great-Aunt Pansy has no kids to spoil and I’m still a little bitter about the time she told me I looked like a ferret as a kid.”

Thorin laughed before gesturing before him. “Lead the way.”

***

Prim and Drogo watched from the dancefloor as Bilbo enthusiastically began to introduce everyone to his ‘boyfriend’. She knew sending her mom over there with money would work.

“How exactly is getting them to fake date going to get them together?” Drogo laughed before kissing her cheek.

“Because it’s the next step up.” Prim rolled her eyes. “You saw them both out there a second ago. Thorin is positively enamored with my stupid, blind cousin. I give it a year before they’re shagging.”

“Whatever you say, Love.” Drogo hummed.

Prim unfortunately underestimated the stubbornness of both of them so when they finally announced they were dating in five years, Prim felt like punching Bilbo in the nose was a pretty understandable response after dealing with her smug husband for that long.

[obsidiancreates]

As My Friend Has Stood By Me, So Shall I (Part 16)

Heart Softer Than Gold (And Worth More Than Any Gem)

It does make his smoke rings invisible, as far as he can tell. At least, when he sneaks into the treasury past a watchful and worrying Bifur and begins to smoke, and Bifur pokes his head in as Bilbo accidentally kicks a few coins while swinging his feet, no notice seems to be taken. So Bilbo sits in the golden light, imagining it to be the sunset of The Shire, and smokes.

“Spring should be coming in soon, if I have my days right,” he mumbles. His voice echoes, just slightly, though he can’t tell if it’s the treasury or the faded and dim world he inhabits whenever he wears his Luck. “Maybe I’ll get some nice sunlight then. Start a garden.”

The image of a small hobbit garden, full of flowers and fruits and prize-winning tomatoes, set at the entrance of Erebor, well it makes him laugh. A soft, warm laugh, and this sound he’s sure is carried by the golden trinkets and towering ceilings all across the treasury. He quickly clams his mouth shut, sitting wide-eyed and very still.

He peeks just behind him, seeing Bifur pop his head back in. The axe gone, Bifur now has a notable chunk missing from his forehead- and a noticeable chunk of Westron in its place. It’s not always available to him, and his vocabulary is limited, but there’s Westron nonetheless.

“Bilbo?” he calls out.

Bilbo keeps quiet.

Bifur waits a moment longer before ducking back out and, by the sounds of it, calling for someone in Khuzdul. The question of who is answered a dozen smoke rings later, when Bofur and Bombur both enter in full and begin poking around.

“You don't’ think he’s hearin’ things, do you?” Bofur glances back at the entrance. “I’m worried about that’ axe missin’.”

“I thin’ he’ll be okay,” Bombur assures, checking in an archway just below where Bilbo actually sits. “If anyone coil’ sneak in here, i’s Bilbo.”

“Aye, true.” Bofur peers down at the depths of the gold piles. “But why? I mean, I know why we all think why, but why now? And why’s it like this?”

“Maybe ‘e’s ‘omesick.” Bombur tosses a coin into the piles, and listens for the sounds of any large shifting or scrambling by any hiding hobbits. “Lots of ‘ills in The Shire.”

“Not the same, though.” 

Not the same.

It’s not the same.

What is he thinking? Of course they’re worried he wants back in here, he should be worried that he wants back in! The light isn’t a Shire Sunset, the mounds are rolling hills of green, the clinking of coins isn’t birdsong or crickets chirping- and while he still believes he can find home anywhere, he can find it anywhere. And it certainly doesn’t have to be here!

Bilbo gets to his feet and sneaks off, out of the treasury and through the halls- perhaps in a smaller mountain it would feel busy and full, but as it stands Erebor is very large, and after The Battle the dwarves number very few. He slips through easily, without bumping into anyone, and out the front entrance to the mountain. He doesn’t dare look at the moat as he passes it, going straight for the first patch of grass he sees- along a gentle slope still wet from a thin layer of freshly melted snow. 

He takes off The Ring- it sticks for a moment, despite how perfectly, purely, how made for him the fit has been since the moment he’d picked it up, a wonderment that Gollum could wear it at all with fingers so much skinner- and with that tug he swiftly conceals it in his palm and lays down, putting his hands behind his head and closing his eyes.

The sunlight is still weaker than he’s used to, but stronger than before. The grass is short and stiff, but alive beneath his weight. The thrush are quiet and the only birdsong is the cawing of ravens, but they caw in joy all the same. And for all the trouble the moat had caused him, the stream that flows from it babbles merrily- the most familiar sound of all.

“There,” he sighs. “Much more like home.”

He falls asleep out there, basking in the sun. He wouldn’t have realized he’d fallen asleep except for Dwalin shaking him awake.

“One o’ the lads spotted you from their post,” he growls. “You’ve given Thorin a scare worse than before.”

Bilbo yawns and stretches. “I’ll go and apologize, then.”

“Ye better.” That scowl is one Bilbo hadn’t been on the receiving end of in well over a year- maybe closer to two now. 

But the irritation of before, it’s like the sunlight melted it away with the snow. Bilbo uses his free hand to pat Dwalin’s shoulder, and his closed fist to stifle another yawn. He’d never been a regular partaker of afternoon naps in the past, but perhaps he should become one.

Bilbo walks inside slowly, hesitating at the entrance.

Back into the deep. Out of the fresh air, the sounds of growing and living things.

Out of the sunlight. 

A chill settles over him almost as soon as he steps inside. Stupid of him to get his lended clothes wet. He does his best to ignore it and walks to the room temporarily set up for Thorin’s meetings with Dain, Dain’s generals, and any other important figure who might need to speak with The King Under The Mountain. There’s raised voices inside, and Bilbo waits a good distance away from the door for it to finish up.

Dain comes out first, seething and whispering in spit-riddled Khuzdul to a red-faced and puffing general. They pass by Bilbo without even a glance, like he’s still wearing The Ring- but no, it’s just clutched in his hand. 

Thorin exits last, looking worn and weary- and then his eyes fall on Bilbo. Always, they  find Bilbo. When few others are capable- or care to look- he finds Bilbo.

The realization chases away the chill. But Thorin’s eyes are stormy as he marches to Bilbo. The hobbit braces for some kind of kingly tirade- and instead Thorin drags him into a hug.

“I never mean to drive you away from us,” Thorin breathes into Bilbo’s curls. “I’m trying to protect you as best I can, from an enemy I can’t fight.”

Bilbo can’t speak. His mouth hangs open, his eyes are wide, and a sound like a whine-hum escapes him. He’s still as stone for a moment, before pressing his arms around Thorin in return.

“There’s no enemy, Thorin. I’m alright.”

“Would you believe me if I said so to you? After disappearing for hours, avoiding my friends, skipping my meals?”

Bilbo swallows. “We both know I wouldn’t.”

“You wouldn’t. You didn’t. You’ll forgive me for following in your footsteps.”

Bilbo finds his hands flat against Thorin’s back, The Ring pressed against Thorin’s armor instead of clutched tightly in his own fist. He lets it stay that way.

“Where were you?”

“Just outside. I needed some sun, that’s all. I fell asleep by accident.”

Thorin doesn’t release the hug yet- nor does Bilbo. 

“Is that all this is? Homesickness? A need for nature?”

“Not as simple as that. As much as I wish it were.” Bilbo’s voice is quiet with the second sentence. “But it’s a start.”

Finally, Thorin pulls away- just slightly, still close enough for Bilbo’s arms to easily slide from Thorin’s back to his biceps, The Ring following the movement and keeping to Bilbo’s palm almost unnaturally smoothly.

“Wars always take from us those we thought we’d saved- warriors and healers who’ve seen too much, and never stop seeing it. Don’t let us lose you to this.”

“I won’t, Thorin. You won’t lose me. I’m here to stay- in this mountain, in this world, by your side.” Bilbo’s ears twitch at his own words. “The-the side of The Company as a whole, I mean.”

Thorin smiles, just a little. “Of course. The Company as a whole.”

Bilbo nods, not making eye contact, and slips his hands back to his side- he closes his fist around The Ring so smoothly and so quickly that Thorin doesn’t even notice the movement. “Well, I ah… suppose I should try to prevent my thoughts from dwelling, anymore. I know there’s not much I can do to help here but I’ll try to find something.”

“I have no doubts you’ll succeed. I’ve known many dwarves with twice your confidence and half your capabilities.”

“Ha.” The laugh is less a true laugh, and more a… sound. An obligation. Bilbo makes it out of habit, staring into Thorin’s eyes. He thinks Blue might be favorite color.

[rucow]

fíli is such an interesting character to me

hes young, but so mature and responsible for his age, he gives me the impression that he had to mature early and probably didn't have much of a childhood

kíli told tauriel that he was escorting caravans a while ago, probably before he had even come of age, and if kíli was working at such an early age then fíli definitely was too, because they weren't born in wealth and royalty like their status suggests, they're the first generation of dwarves that come after the loss of everything their parents and grandparents had. the life in ered luin was the only life they knew, and im sure fíli worked hard since an early age to do everything he could to help his mother and uncle

hes a prince and should technically have good people skills, but he comes across more awkward than his little brother in his interactions with the other characters (have you seen his gestures? he never knows what to do with his hands😭)

he's genuine and honest to a fault and it backfired when he begged alfrid and the master for help for kíli, because he told them his brother was sick when he could've said injured or hurt instead, and maybe, MAYBE he would've received help then (this was also a complete opposite to how thorin used his status to sway the people of laketown to his side *ahem*via manipulation*ahem*, fíli did no such thing although he could have)

fíli's speech about belonging with his brother. we don't get a straightforward reasoning behind why most of the dwarves really joined the quest, other than supporting thorin, but what im sensing here is that fíli came along first and foremost in order to protect kíli, idk maybe kíli really really wanted to go on their uncle's quest and experience the world and live through many adventures, and fíli of course would have followed kíli anywhere, because he's his younger sibling and it's his responsibility to see him safe and sound. im sure fíli promised dís he would protect kíli, and he hasn't failed that promise. he protected kíli till his last breath

and speaking of which, im sure fíli knew he was walking into a trap when thorin sent him to scout the ravenhill tower in botfa. i found it odd that even though thorin told them both not to engage, the moment they heard a sound inside kíli was ready to rush in and *engage*, and that was when fíli stopped him and turned him the other way, the opposite way from danger. kíli probably didn't want to let thorin down, especially after he felt that he already let him down in laketown

i could talk endlessly about what a good and caring leader fíli would have made, with the way hes so protective not only of kili but of everyone else as well. when the orcs attacked them in laketown, he urged bard to take his children and go to safety, even though fíli was defenseless himself. then when bard was out of the picture fíli practically adopted his kids and did everything he could to keep them safe, without being asked to or anything, it just came naturally to him. we also see him wordlessly helping the other dwarves throughout the movies, such as when he was helping bombur up after the stone giants battle, idk it's a nice detail

rewatching the ramparts scene where thorin specifically tries to force fíli to kill bilbo, because fíli is his heir and must follow in his dragonsick footsteps no matter what, really hurts me the most i think. how fíli had to break from thorin's grasp when he ordered him a 2nd time to throw bilbo from the ramparts, and fíli's "no" when thorin tries to do it himself

during that scene we see fíli not taking his eyes off thorin at all. he gently pushes bilbo away from thorin and into bofur's arms all the while keeping his eyes on thorin, just in case. its such a small detail but it speaks so much of just how much of a protector fíli is, and i can't wrap my head around how young he was during all this

[dragons-and-dwarves-are-nice]

To the Shadows that Cry Witch /// Chapter 14

OK SO APPARENTLY I MISSED POSTING LAST WEEKS CHAPTER??? I mean I was panicking about going on holiday, BUT STILL?? THE FACT THAT I DIDN'T EVEN REALISE. Guys if I don't post feel free to ask me why because 9/10 times it's my dumb adhd ass forgetting cuz she's stressed. But on the bright side - I GOT INTO UNIVERSITY!!! So I'm in a very good mood rn and managed to write this entire chapter in less than an hour. It hasn't been proofread, but I'm gonna have to do that another time. Enjoy! <3

Summary: Magic was real, but it came at a price. So when two girls end up in the one place they never thought they could reach, strange things began to happen. Good or bad? That's up to them to find out.

Tags: Kili x oc/reader - Fili x oc (POV to be written soon) - Thorin's company × ocs/reader (platonic) - fluff - angst - EXTREME slow burn - crack - Bagginshield

Word Count: 1732

Warnings: Mentions of Minor and Major Injuries from last chapter.

Taglist - comment or message to be added!

PLEASE START FROM THE BEGINNING IF YOU HAVEN'T ALREADY OK LOVE U

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< Chapter 13 // Chapter 14 // Chapter 15 >

Part 2: Chapter 14 -

Thanks, I hate it.

Skreigh (Definition): To utter a harsh abrupt scream (Noun / Origin: Gaelic / Sk·r·ay)

Eventually, Kay lifted her head up. Her grey eyes were rimmed by a crimson red as they blinked up as the two of us, and if you looked closely, you could see a tremble in her hands as they came up to wipe at her face.

Bilbo immediately sped into action, marching over to the bed and swiping the second blanket that laid at the end. Shaking it out of its folds, he draped it over Kay’s shoulders, and I handed over her tea, making sure that the shaking in her limbs didn’t spill the hot liquid down her front. Taking a small sip, she let out a shaky sigh.

“Are you okay?”

Bilbo was the first to break the silence with his question, kneeling down in front of my friend, looking at her with both concern and slight fear.

Kay nodded. Bilbo got up, murmuring something about food helping before he left for what was probably the kitchen. I waited a second before speaking.

“That was so scary.” I whispered, too shocked about the ordeal to take note of my volume.

“I’m fine, really.” Kay croaked, taking another sip of tea.

“Kay, I thought you were dying.” I protested, “What happened?”

She opened her mouth, taking a few seconds to get the words out.

“I wanted to tell Bilbo about where we came from, where our home is and–” She welled up, taking deep breaths to calm herself down as I waited patiently in silence. “My head just started to hurt. Like, worse than the concussion, as if someone stuck knives in both sides of my brain and shimmied them around. And then… I tried again to say something out loud and my throat just closed up.”

I shuffled over next to her, and she leant on me, resting her head on my shoulder as she cradled the tea in her hand.

“I guess I also thought I was dying.”

I tensed up at her words, now scared about what would happen to me if I tried to do anything similar, whilst simultaneously being scared for Kay. Though I was brought back out of my thoughts at the sound of her voice again.

“–It was as if something didn’t want me saying anything.”

I felt the hairs on my neck stand up at those words, and I suddenly got the god-awful feeling – you know – the one where you feel like you’re being watched. But I knew that surely, we couldn’t be, since the only door was closed and the curtains drawn. But that attempted reassurance did nothing to stifle the uneasy sensation that grazed itself along the back of my neck and down the sides of my arms.

“Maybe that something doesn’t want people finding out about us?” I suggested to try and reassure Kay, and also distract myself from that weird feeling. “It could be to protect us.”

“Protect us from what?” She whispered nervously.

“Perhaps from those who… want to use our knowledge to cause harm?”

I felt Kay’s head shift on my shoulder slightly, and I could see the way her brows furrowed in confusion.

“What knowledge? Half the stuff we know is too advanced for them. Like, not to brag, but A-Level Sciences are something they’re a long while away from understanding.”

I nodded in agreement, feeling a small smile appear on my face at the thought of being the smarter one for once. Though all those thoughts were washed away as an answer to Kay’s question came to mind.

“Maybe… knowledge of what is to come?”

Kay froze.

“Shit. You’re right.” She hissed.

A beat passed as more thoughts invaded my mind. One stood out, and I quickly shuffled to sit opposite Kay, facing her.

“We need to find out what day it is.” I blurted.

“Day? I heard Bilbo say what day it was earlier, but it was a weird word…” She mentioned, scratching at her head in thought.

“Can you remember what it was?” I asked, the desperation in my voice crawling through.

“I’m pretty sure it began with an M?” She replied.

I immediately racked my brain, sifting through all the obscure Middle Earth facts I had read over the years. I knew that the Shire had its own calendar, including days of the week. They were the same as our days of the week, but some days had a different name. From what I could recall, Sunday and Monday remained the same, and I could easily remember that Tuesday was Trewsday, due to them both sounding so similar, but the rest were still tucked away, hidden in the confines of my mind that only resurfaced once in a blue moon, and believe me, it is as frustrating as it sounds.

“Mer-something?” She added.

“Mersday!” I half yelled. “I think that means Thursday?”

“I don’t know, you tell me.” She said confused.

I fiddled with the corner of the blanket that was draped over Kay, then twisted towards the door.

“BILBO?!”

A crash was heard, then the rapid slapping of feet on wood, before Bilbo rounded the corner with frantic eyes.

“Yes?!” he gasped.

“What’s the date?” I asked with a smile.

He paused, a deadpan look on his face as he realised no one was dying again, and he straightened up with a heave, in an attempt to retrieve his breath.

“Date?”

We both nodded with a grin, and with an unamused sigh, he answered.

“It’s Mersday, the twenty-ninth of September, if you must know.” He huffed with a shrug, slapping his hands on his legs. “Any other obscure things you wish to know, after almost dying for no reason?”

The two of us looked at each other, and he rolled his eyes with a groan.

“Yes, what?” He asked sarcastically.

“The year?” I said.

He gave us a strange look, as he has done every time we did something out of the ordinary over the last couple days.

“Twentyyy… nine, thirty nine.” He answered slowly.

“Thirty-nine?” I repeated.

“Y-yes.” He said exasperated.

“Ok,” I said as I did the math in my head, before looking back up at Bilbo. “Thank you.”

He nodded slowly, a little unsure about what just went on in the last few minutes, and began turning back towards the door.

“That’s no problem. I’m gonna… make myself a cup of…” He pointed awkwardly at the doorway, “Chamomile. Yep. Chamo – Goodnight.”

He disappeared promptly, and I twisted back towards Kay.

“So it seems that we’re a little early.” I whispered.

“For the…” She made a walking motion with her fingers.

“Journey, yes.” I nodded. “A whole 20 months before Gandalf shows up, if I’m correct.”

Kay grunted in frustration, most likely at the thought of waiting for an entire year and eight months for Gandalf to commence O.D.R – Operation Dwarf Rave, in other words. Or Bag End’s demise, if you will.

Stifling a yawn, I lifted Kay’s arm up to squint at the time on her Hello Kitty watch she had retrieved from her suitcase earlier, to see it was almost midnight. I got to my feet and shuffled over to the door.

“Right, I’m gonna head to bed and attempt to rid my brain of the image of you dying. And you’re gonna sleep until you’re fully energised after all –” I gestured at her, “–that.”

She nodded in agreement, and flopped onto her bed, wrapping her arms around her teddy.

“And no talking about our world.” I said in a mocking strict voice.

Kay rolled her eyes at me, and I ducked through the doorway as a pillow flew in my direction. I yelled goodnight as I made my way back through the house to my room, extinguishing the low burning candles on my way, allowing the darkness to follow me until I reached the glow of Bilbo’s room, who was already watching the doorway as my footsteps neared.

“Is she alright now?” he asked, a slight undertone of worry in his voice.

I nodded. “Yea she’s gone to bed. Still a little shaky, but she’s managed to calm down.”

“Ok.” He said, reassuring himself with a nod, before looking back up at me. “I’ll see you in the morning.”

I smiled as we both bid each other goodnight, and I carried on down the hallway. Ducking under the last archway, I finally made it to my room and closed the door behind me. Taking the last lit candle, I placed it on my bedside as I changed out of my clothes into one of Bilbo’s nightgowns, which acted as more of a shirt for me. Shuffling under the covers, I turned around towards the headboard. Manoeuvring the pillows around, I took some and scrunched them in an out in an attempt to fluff them up. Placing the final one down with a pat, I kept my body facing the head of the bed as a leant over to the candle. Opening my mouth slightly, I prepared to blow out the flame, only to halt in my tracks.

I felt myself freeze in place at the sound of a rustle within the room. Moving only my eyes to the left, I stared in the direction of the noise, which sounded like something heavy being knocked around. It was soon silent again, only the sound of the wind and the faint hoot of a distant owl from outside, along with the roaring of blood from my rapidly beating heart, could be heard.

Slowly but surely, I turned my head, until I was finally able to see the entirety of the dimly lit room. Staring with wide eyes, my sight fell upon the wardrobe in the corner.

Whilst being half the size of my one at home, it was still large enough to hide someone, which was exactly what I was panicking about. As silently as I could, I slipped off the bed, candlestick in hand, along with the small stool from another corner, and I crept towards the tall piece of furniture.

Now, I understand that in horror films, this is exactly how someone gets killed, but I needed my sleep, and I wasn’t going to let some hobbit burglar that wasn’t Bilbo take that away from me.

Pointing the stool legs towards the doors, I placed the candle on the chest of drawers next to the wardrobe, and slowly stretched out my hand.

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

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[apocalypticavolition]

Let's (re)Read the Hobbit! Chapters 10 & 11

The day grew lighter and warmer as they floated along.

That'll cure the hypothermia!

Okay, I'll try to ease off on this, but only because they're almost out of the barrels.

And far away, its dark head in a torn cloud, there loomed the Mountain!

It's been looming over us this whole time, so it's nice to finally see it. Plus, as a conoisseur of mountains, I can confirm that the ones that rise up without a whole range around them tend to look the coolest.

The elf-road through the wood which the dwarves had followed on the advice of Beorn now came to a doubtful and little used end at the eastern edge of the forest; only the river offered any longer a safe way from the skirts of Mirkwood in the North to the mountain-shadowed plains beyond, and the river was guarded by the Wood-elves’ king.

Thanks for the useless help, Beorn. Dude's probably chilling by the eastern end of the road with his bear buddies, wondering why his dinner is late. Like, I legit can't even give Gandalf too much shit for being behind the times even though I'm increasingly uncertain where he's been the past few years (Gondor?), but I feel like Beorn shoulda had a clue the road was no longer usable.

At the southern end the doubled waters poured out again over high waterfalls and ran away hurriedly to unknown lands.

I assume the narration here means "unknown to Bilbo", since we know from this very text that downriver is Dorwinion; this particular river flows into the Sea of Rhun.

But men remembered little of all that, though some still sang old songs of the dwarf-kings of the Mountain, Thror and Thrain of the race of Durin, and of the coming of the Dragon, and the fall of the lords of Dale.

It's been over a hundred years, so it makes sense that no one directly remembers things, but it is a bit surprising it's falling out of memory so quickly when the ruins are right fucking there.

“Well, are you alive or are you dead?” asked Bilbo quite crossly. Perhaps he had forgotten that he had had at least one good meal more than the dwarves, and also the use of his arms and legs, not to speak of a greater allowance of air.

Bilbo, you are being a complete dick about this.

Knocking outside and calling only discovered about six dwarves that could answer.

I lied, here's my last joke: the other six can't answer because they're dead!

Dwalin and Balin were two of the most unhappy, and it was no good asking them to help.

Balin loses some points here, but he's still in the lead.

“Thorin son of Thrain son of Thror King under the Mountain!” said the dwarf in a loud voice, and he looked it, in spite of his torn clothes and draggled hood. The gold gleamed on his neck and waist; his eyes were dark and deep.

Frankly you'd think the ruined clothes would completely shatter the effect. I guess they don't get too many fakers.

“We have none,” said Thorin, and it was true enough: their knives had been taken from them by the wood-elves, and the great sword Orcrist too. Bilbo had his short sword, hidden as usual, but he said nothing about that.

Tolkien, this is what we call, "Not true." Sucks about Orcrist though. It woulda been real handy in the later chapters.

“Is this true?” asked the Master. As a matter of fact he thought it far more likely than the return of the King under the Mountain, if any such person had ever existed.

Ah, here's where the clothing problem comes into play. Still though, the Master is hardly being unrealistic even if he is wrong.

The King beneath the mountains, The King of carven stone, The lord of silver fountains Shall come into his own!

See, the Rivendell elves should have been singing a variant of this if they wanted to be nice.

The Wood-elves themselves began to wonder greatly and even to be afraid. They did not know of course how Thorin had escaped, and they began to think their king might have made a serious mistake. As for the Master he saw there was nothing else for it but to obey the general clamour, for the moment at any rate, and to pretend to believe that Thorin was what he said.

I always love it when the mob is in the right and the upper class has to bow to their whims or pay the price.

Thorin looked and walked as if his kingdom was already regained and Smaug chopped up into little pieces.

While Thorin's recalcitrance towards the Elf-King was perhaps a little over the top, this is a clear indicator of the problems that Thorin will be having shortly.

He had not forgotten the look of the Mountain, nor the thought of the dragon, and he had besides a shocking cold. For three days he sneezed and coughed, and he could not go out, and even after that his speeches at banquets were limited to “Thag you very buch.”

Funny that only the guy in the barrel is particularly suffering.

“Very well! We’ll see! No treasure will come back through Mirkwood without my having something to say in the matter. But I expect they will all come to a bad end, and serve them right!”

Only three of them, though I guess one comes to a Bag End. Still, not a very good guess your haughtiness.

“Let them go and bother Smaug, and see how he welcomes them!” he thought.

Not the smartest move by the Master, considering what the risk to the town is. Hell, it even comes to pass! This guy is the worst leader we've seen so far.

The Master and his councillors bade them farewell from the great steps of the town-hall that went down to the lake. People sang on the quays and out of windows. The white oars dipped and splashed, and off they went north up the lake on the last stage of their long journey. The only person thoroughly unhappy was Bilbo.

Honestly you'd think the little dude would expect everything would be totally hunky-dory at this point because nothing has gone wrong for him in any significant way at all. I guess worriers are gonna worry.

Here they were joined by the horses with other provisions and necessaries and the ponies for their own use that had been sent to meet them.

I wonder if they'll last any longer than the last set. Their making it to the third day is clearly mostly related to the dwarves not riding them.

Balin and Bilbo rode behind, each leading another pony heavily laden beside him; the others were some way ahead picking out a slow road, for there were no paths.

I'm not sure how I can possibly twist this into an example of Balin being the best dwarf when all the others are being useful, but that's not going to stop me. Balin for best dwarf!

Nothing moved in the waste, save the vapour and the water, and every now and again a black and ominous crow.

Corvids get a really bad rap. They deserve better. If there's crows here, then there's gotta be something worth eating, they can't just be feeding on dwarf corpses that are a hundred years old.

“That does not prove it,” said Balin, “though I don’t doubt you are right. But he might be gone away some time, or he might be lying out on the mountain-side keeping watch, and still I expect smokes and steams would come out of the gates: all the halls within must be filled with his foul reek.”

Dragon poop: literally steaming apparently.

Now strange to say Mr. Baggins had more than the others. He would often borrow Thorin’s map and gaze at it, pondering over the runes and the message of the moon-letters Elrond had read. It was he that made the dwarves begin the dangerous search on the western slopes for the secret door.

Gandalf externally: "You all can't go as a set of 13, it's very unlucky!"

Gandalf internally: "You morons need a babysitter and daddy's busy."

But at last unexpectedly they found what they were seeking. Fili and Kili and the hobbit went back one day down the valley and scrambled among the tumbled rocks at its southern corner.

Some small points to these two dudes for being around while Bilbo finds things.

They beat on it, they thrust and pushed at it, they implored it to move, they spoke fragments of broken spells of opening, and nothing stirred.

Hey wow, more dwarf magic. Been awhile! Of course, Bilbo can use it too presumably so it may not be dwarf magic specifically, but still. You just don't get dwarf oral spells in much other fantasy.

Down the same way they were able occasionally to lower one of the more active dwarves, such as Kili, to exchange such news as there was, or to take a share in the guard below, while Bofur was hauled up to the higher camp.

Hey I guess Fili does exist beyond being an extension of Kili!

“I am too fat for such fly-walks,” he said.

Fuck off Tolkien. I don't care that at the end of the paragraph you clarify that it's not true. You've gone to this well too many times!

Bilbo found sitting on the doorstep lonesome and wearisome—there was not a doorstep, of course, really, but they used to call the little grassy space between the wall and the opening the “doorstep” in fun, remembering Bilbo’s words long ago at the unexpected party in his hobbit-hole, when he said they could sit on the doorstep till they thought of something.

Will THIS be the last time?

"I might have known that something dreadful would happen to me in the end. I don’t think I could bear to see the unhappy valley of Dale again, and as for that steaming gate! ! !”

Poor Bilbo, 3 exclamation points is a sign of someone bordering on madness. Also yeah them sending him through the Front Gate is pretty rich on their part, invisibility or no.

There on the grey stone in the grass was an enormous thrush, nearly coal black, its pale yellow breast freckled with dark spots. Crack! It had caught a snail and was knocking it on the stone. Crack! Crack!

Shame they couldn't be arsed to reread the runes and had to find it solely by coincidence. These asshole dwarves don't deserve their treasure; Bilbo should get it all.

Now they all pushed together, and slowly a part of the rock-wall gave way. Long straight cracks appeared and widened. A door five feet high and three broad was outlined, and slowly without a sound swung inwards. It seemed as if darkness flowed out like a vapour from the hole in the mountain-side, and deep darkness in which nothing could be seen lay before their eyes, a yawning mouth leading in and down.

11 chapters and they've only just now reached the dungeon. It's just like every D&D campaign I've ever played!

[anaveragebibliophile]

All Will Be Well

Young!Legolas x Thranduil x Wife!Reader 

Summary: Via Bilbo Baggins, our favorite burglar and hobbit, we begin to get a glimpse into the lives of Mirkwood’s favorite royal family in a time of anxiety, stress, and healing.  Who are their people? Who’s willing to go to the ends of Middle Earth for them? 

“Good day, I’m looking for Gandalf the Grey. I’ve been told to meet him here at the Kingdom of Mirkwood but can’t seem to find him. Would you be able to direct me?” young Bilbo Baggins asked Tauriel, the captain of the guard.

“Yes, most certainly, Master Baggins. Right this way.” 

And off they walked through the castle's thick archways and along its long corridors. And off they walked, with Tauriel greeting fellow comrades and noblemen along the way. And off they walked while passing by the portrait of the royal family: King Thranduil, Queen (y/n), and Prince Legolas (the newest addition to the family). 

“So that’s the king and queen,” Bilbo said, unaware that he voiced his thoughts aloud. 

“Yes. Two of the most remarkable people I know. King Thranduil is a sensational man. A little stoic, yes. A tad complicated, for sure. But his wife balances him out. She’s truly the marvelous one. Smart as a whip, as beautiful as a goddess, and kinder than even the most generous of men. I hope to be just like her one day.”

“I saw that they have a child with them in the portrait. Did the queen recently have a baby, an elfling?”

“Why yes. About a year ago, in fact. Prince Legolas is the shining star of the Mirkwood realm. We love him to pieces. He’s a doppelgänger of his father but has the demeanor of his mother. Well, now that I think more on the subject, that’s not necessarily true. Exteriorly, Legolas’ mother exudes kindness and peace. However, her husband does as well, he’s just not as open about that side of his character. I’m sure you’ve heard of his more taciturn, icy behaviors, yes?” He nodded and she continued. “ So, I guess you could say that he displays qualities that are similar in both parents, even if Middle Earth isn’t cognizant of that,” Tauriel explained. 

Bilbo hummed in response. “Forgive me for being ignorant here, but if this is the king and queen’s kingdom, where exactly are they? I would presume that Gandalf doesn’t control their territory, correct?” 

Tauriel’s eyebrows pinched, her reluctance to answer the questions obviously evident. “Well, Master Baggins, the reality is that King Thranduil is indisposed at the moment.”

“Whatever do you mean?”

“Three days ago, the king woke up with a lightly elevated temperature, a sore throat, and some congestion. And in the beginning, he did not think it was a problem. Honestly, he believed it to be an irritant of some kind.” 

“But it wasn’t,” Bilbo interjected. 

“Correct. His wife ended up pulling him out of his meetings when she received word of his pale pallor and sickly hue. He has been holed up in bed ever since, Queen (y/n) taking control of his affairs.”

“Now it makes sense. Queen (y/n) is Gandalf’s friend. Of course he’d be willing to help her during this crazy time.”

Tauriel smiled. “He has been wonderful. But that still begs the question, Master Baggins. What are you doing here?” 

‘What a good question,’ Bilbo thought. 

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“Bilbo Baggins, what a pleasure to see you again,” Gandalf the Gray exclaimed as he embraced his fellow burglar and comrade. 

“Hello, Gandalf. It appears you’re doing well.”

“Why yes, my boy. Queen (y/n) has been seeking counsel for the last few days while her husband has been trying to heal. And because of that, I have had the privilege of getting to spend more time with her and her stupendous young elfling. Come now and let me explain what I mean.” 

Reluctantly, the hobbit acquiesced, mainly because he wasn’t certain they should be inserting themselves into the royal family’s business. After all, if Tauriel was nervous to share that information, how would King Thranduil and Queen (y/n) feel about it getting out and inappropriately disclosed?

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 Following the wizard, Bilbo was directed from what seemed to be the likes of a conference room to yet another hallway. However, this hallway seemed to be a bit more friendly, a bit less frosty than those surrounding the throne room. He remembered Gandalf mentioning on a previous visit that this area was strictly reserved for the king and queen, so perhaps that was why the color scheme (pastels) seemed more inviting and the architecture less encompassing.

As they walked past sky blue walls and potted azaleas and stepped around a few miscellaneous toys (which he presumed to be Prince Legolas’), they reached a room at the end of the hall. But the door was cracked open the slightest bit, making Bilbo hesitate to move any closer. 

“It’s alright,” Gandalf started. “They will not hear us or even sense our presence. I have perfected the spell for occasions such as this.”

Not bothering to interpret the last sentence, Bilbo focused on the former. “Who won’t?” 

“Take a look and find out.” 

Sighing, Bilbo slowly moved his body towards the door, his right hip lightly pressing against the wood. Inside the room, King Thranduil was sitting up in the bed, his body supported by myriad pillows. His skin took on a jaundice-like hue while his lips were white (completely absolved of the rosy color they usually take on). He appeared languid, fatigued, yet he was still smiling at what was going on to his right: his wife rocking their child to sleep in an ivory rocking chair by his bedside. 

The king coughed roughly into his elbow before speaking. “Is he asleep, darling?” he asked. 

“Yes, honey. He’s been out for about five minutes. His little body is all relaxed.” 

“Good. I am glad. I feel so terrible for giving this to him. The poor guy barely got any sleep last night.”

“Thran, it’s not your fault. These things happen. Legolas’ fever is down, and he seems to be resting easier. We just need to be patient. He’ll be better in a few days and back to playing with his toys in the garden and relaying his stories to the council,” Queen (y/n) said, trying to relieve her husband of his entirely misplaced guilt. “I think it’s time for you to get some more rest. Hopefully when you both wake up, you’ll feel much better.” 

“Alright, sweetheart. Please wake me if anything changes with Legolas,” Thranduil said, his voice rough and hoarse.

“Will do. Now sleep,” the queen gently commanded, her free hand running through her husband’s thick, platinum locks. 

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“So this is why you’re really here,” Bilbo said. “The queen had actually taken over all of the king’s affairs, but then the prince became ill as well. That’s why she sent for you.”

“Yes, I have been somewhat secretly handling what the king and queen cannot. They do not want to worry anyone, especially the staff, about Prince Legolas’ condition. He is doing much better than last night and is on the mend, but the knowledge that he was ill at all will send the palace into a panic. He is their pride and joy, after all.”

“What does the palace believe you’re doing here, then?”

“Providing support in a time of need.”  

“Although this does make sense, Gandalf, I have to wonder why you sent for me. What can I do here? I’m no wizard, nor am I elvish royalty.”

At this comment, Gandalf’s lips pulled up into a smile. “No, you are neither of those things, Master Baggins. However, you are the perfect candidate for a mission the queen needs you to embark on. Since she cannot depart herself, she asked me to pick someone that I believed would work diligently enough to get the information she covets regarding Gundabad and the orc armies being bred there. Who better than the man who helped the dwarves reclaim the Lonely Mountain. So what do you say, Bilbo? Will you give this a chance?” 

“You already know the answer, Gandalf, which is why you brought this opportunity to me. You know I’ve been rather restless and in need of a change. That being said, yes. I find myself honored to be selected to serve the queen. She seems like a remarkable woman. Anything I can do to help her out would be a true pleasure.”

[lilxberry]

Hardly Burglar Material - Bilbo Baggins

Requested by: @donniethescienceguy​

Helloooooooo! Can I have a Bilbo x hobbit wife reader where after Thorin insults him (in the beginning when he arrives) she defends him and Thorins like: are you sure it’s the male Baggins we want?

I mean, I still did as what was requested but man, did I not know where tf this was going lmao

I followed quite a bit of the manuscript of the film, the only alteration is when reader confronts Thorin

Warnings: Nothing really. Asshole Thorin. Terrible writing lmao. 

Words: 1,796

Pairings: Bilbo Baggins x Reader (female reader) (wife!reader)

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You hadn’t expected your quiet evening meal with your husband to be interrupted but when a dwarf, a big, burly, tattooed, balding, towering one at that knocks your door, there certainly isn’t much you can do.

After the dwarf, who introduced himself as Dwalin, had entered your home and devoured your husbands fish dinner, to which you offered Bilbo your own meal, more and more knocks sounded at the door, each one miffing your husband further and further until he had finally had enough.

“There’s nobody home!” he shouted as another sound came from the front door, arms holding up the abundance of weapons the two brothers’, Fíli and Kíli, loaded on to him.

You felt terrible, watching as your husband becomes frustrated, not knowing what to do other than spectate in concern.

He tossed the items down out of his arms as he stormed towards the door, shouting at whoever was on the other side. “Go away and bother somebody else! There are far too many dwarves in my dining room as it is.”

Bilbo closes in on the door. “I-I-If this is some plotheads idea of a joke,” he laughed in disbelief before grasping the door handle in his hand. “I can only say, it is in very poor taste.”

With that, he pulled the door open and in comes tumbling through the doorway a cluster of dwarves, all grumbling and whining at the other to get off of them. Bilbo and yourself, who stood a few steps behind, looked down at the mess of moving bodies on the floor before his feet, dumbfounded expressions on both of your faces.

Movement behind the pile up caught both yours and Bilbos’ attention, and once the tall figure bent down ever so slightly to reveal himself, your face twisted into that of utter confusion as your husband sighs in exasperation.

“Gandalf.”

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Although you were concerned for your husband, you couldn’t help but find the whole situation quite amusing. You found some of the dwarven folk that had invaded your shared home to be quite a fun, entertaining bunch.

Of course, you were concerned about the possessions within your home, hoping that the dwarves leave your home relatively untouched and that your husband wouldn’t have some sort of mental breakdown.

Your uninvited guests had pillaged the pantry of its food. The race of dwarves certainly did have quite an appetite. Even Gandalf had nibbled on quite a bit of food.

The rowdiness of the dwarves had calmed slightly, if only for moment when they downed whatever drink they had. Even the ridiculous and frankly disgusting belching afterwards was calmer than their initial arrival.

Yet that was quickly replaced with plates, platers, knives, forks, and spoons were tossed from one dwarf to another as they sang a merry tune. Bilbo was quick with demanding caution and for things to be put down. Even you were slightly worried for your kitchen utensils.

The dwarves released hearty laughter when you and Bilbo peered into the kitchen and had seen that everything was clean and stacked, Gandalf chuckling along with them as both you and Bilbo simultaneously release sighs of relief.

Then, the atmosphere became tense as three, loud knocks sound at your front door for a final time that night.

The laughter died out instantly and Gandalf spoke quite ominously. “He’s here.”

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You couldn’t really pinpoint what exactly was unsettled you so much when it came to the dark-haired dwarf who sat at the head of the table. Maybe his stature. Possibly his stoic expression.

Most likely the look behind his eyes.

Well, you certainly didn’t like him all that much whenever he addressed your husband.

Most of the conversation between the dwarves and Gandalf became muffled when reaching your ears, certainly seeing no point in listening in on their talk. The second your husbands voice rang out through the room though had piqued your interest and your attention was brought to the conversation.

They spoke of The Lonely Mountain, the dragon Smaug, how they were on a quest to reclaim their home. Gandalf had produced not only a map of some forts but a key, a key the dwarves seemed to become quite excited about.

You also happened to admire the young dwarfs’ courage. Ori.

Then, the topic of a burglar arrived.

“That’s why we need a burglar,” Ori spoke.

“Hmm, and a good one too. An expert I’d imagine.” Bilbo moves back from peering down at the map, holding on to his suspenders.

“And are you?”

Bilbo glances around to behind him before looking towards the dwarves once more. “Am I what?”

“He said he’s an expert!” Oin spoke cheerily. Of course, the dwarf with the horn to aid his hearing would say as such.

“Me? No, no, no, no, no,” your husband started, eyes darting to each dwarf, hoping his point would get across. “I’m not a burglar. I’ve never stolen a thing in my life.”

You nodded your head in agreement. As much as you love your husband, he is quite the stickler for following rules.

“I’m afraid I have to agree with Mister Baggins,” Balin was next to speak. “He’s hardly burglar material.”

You supressed a chuckle as Bilbo, although relieved that someone agreed, looked the tiniest bit offended.

The group of dwarves began to chatter and raise in volume, no words could actually be comprehended by yourself, it all a jumble of noises. Then Gandalf raised out of the seat slightly, his voice booming over the racket the dwarves created.

“ENOUGH! IF I SAY BILBO BAGGINS IS A BURGLAR,” he lowered his voice with each following word. “Then a burglar he is.” Bilbo looked as if he wanted to protest but no words left his mouth.

“Hobbits are remarkably light on their feet,” he continued. “In fact, they can pass by unseen by most if they chose. And while the dragon is accustomed to the smell of dwarf, the scent of a Hobbit is all but unknown to them which gives us an distinct advantage.”

The whole discussion about your husband was unnerving for you. You disliked how your husband was talked of like a ploy in some silly game.

“This quest is no place for gentlefolk.” Thorins’ tone was as if the words left a vile taste in his mouth, clearly showing his disgust for your husband. “He probably wouldn’t last 5 miles away from his precious little home. Look at him, Gandalf! He isn’t made for such things, it’s as clear as day. His big feet and rounded belly would slow us down. Your little Hobbit would cry out for home within a day.”

Your blood boiled with each word he spoke, an anger rising in you which you desperately tried to keep down. Your nails dug into the palms of your hands and your jaw was clenched tightly shut, but enough was enough.

“HOW DARE YOU SPEAK OF MY HUSBAND LIKE THAT?! NO LESS WHILST YOU ARE IN HIS HOME AND IN HIS PRESENCE!”

Your outburst caught the attention of every soul in the dining room around the table. Their eyes settled on your figure that stepped closer and closer to them up to the point where you stood glaring down at Thorin right beside his seat. Even Bilbos’ eyes were wide and looked almost ready to pop right out of their sockets.

“My husband may not be a fighter like you…you BRASS DWARVES! But he deserves no less respect. I will not stand for someone speaking down on my Bilbo in such a manner, even if they are some king,” you all but spat out.

Some of the dwarves looked offended that you spoke to their leader in such a way, others looked thoroughly shocked, surprised that a small thing as yourself had such a fire in you. Gandalf smirked as Bilbo looked like he genuinely feared for your safety. He had witnessed outbursts from you that scared him before, which were quite rare, you barely losing your temper, but for once, he was terrified of the consequences seeing as it wasn’t at him nor a fellow Hobbit.

But it was Thorins’ reaction that had you confused. He seemed…impressed?

Thorin turned towards Gandalf, a smirk of his own forming on his face. “Are you sure it was Mister Baggins you had wanted to join our quest?”

Gandalf chuckled and looked towards you and your husband, you now joined your side, who was silently scolding you with his eyes but nonetheless remaining the concerned, dotting husband. “I was certain on Mister Baggins being the 14th member of your company, but I would highly recommend you take a 15th as I believe Misses Baggins certainly has something of her own to bring to the quest.”

“They both have a great deal more to offer than any of you know, including themselves. You must trust me on this,” Gandalf finished.

Thorin looked at Gandalf and Gandalf at he for a moment, Thorin evidently mulling it over within his head before finally, he spoke. “Very well. We’ll do it your way. Give them the contract.”

Both yourself and Bilbo began to protest as Balin produced the document. He handed it over to Bilbo who unravelled the parchment and began to scan over the words, your eyes peering over his shoulder to read it for yourself.

As Bilbo and you busied yourselves with reading over the document, Thorin had leant over towards Gandalf to whisper within his ear. “I cannot guarantee their safety.”

“Understood,” Gandalf hummed in acknowledgement.

“You’ll be left responsible for their fate.”

“Agreed.”

Bilbo began to read aloud the text, brow furrowed out of concentration, your own face screwed up slightly, straining to peer at the words.

“Terms; cash on delivery up to but not exceeding 1 14th for total profit, if any. Seems fair, uhh-“

“Shouldn’t it be changed to 1 15th if I were to join?” you questioned aimlessly.

Bilbo nodded his head in agreement before continuing. “Present company shall not be liable for injuries inflicted by or sustained as a government, thereof including but not limited to; lacerations. Evisceration?” He unfolds a piece further, reading before looking towards the group with a look of disbelief. “Incineration?!”

“Oh, aye. It’d melt the flesh off your bones in the blink of an eye,” Bofur quipped with ease.

Many more ‘encouraging and reassuring’ words were spoken by Bofur, unnerving both yourself and Bilbo, though you hid it extremely well. The moment your husband passed out, was when Bofur seemed to finally relent.

“Oh dear.” You looked towards your husband laying on the floor unconscious with concern before turning towards the others with a worried expression.

Valar forbid you allow him to go with those dwarves and that conniving wizard alone.

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I mean, I don’t really have anything to say sooooo

If you want to be added to a taglist lemme know

Anywho, I hope you enjoy

As always, constructive criticism and requests are welcomed and greatly appreciated :D

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LOTR / The Hobbit taglist:

@iwazoomingouttahere​ 

[jjamjamm]

More than Friends

Masterlist

Wordcount: 1211

Summary: A dear friend is visiting the Shire and Bilbo discovers he may want to be more than friends.

It was Bilbo’s favorite time of the month, the few days he looked forward to when he would have a houseguest. She wasn’t just any ordinary houseguest either, but his closest and dearest friend. He loved Y/N’s visits, she was one of the very few people whose company didn’t irritate him.

They had met years before, when the both of them were in the woods near the Shire, off on their own little explorations. They had been stunned to find another person doing the same thing and had hit it off straightaway. They continued their exploratory visits to the woods together, finding that it was much more enjoyable to have a friend to do it with.

Once they had outgrown their playing, she had promised him that she would stay in touch, and after a few day trips, they discovered that they got along outside of the woods as well. Bilbo was ecstatic. He was hoping to spend more time with Y/N, he truly did enjoy himself when she was around. He felt it was one of those rare once in a lifetime friendships and didn’t want to lose something so special.

Now, she came once a month, when the weather allowed her to sell her goods in the market of the Shire. Due to their close relationship, he had invited her to stay the second he discovered her intent to set up a stall of her own.

During the day, when she was working at her stall, the two hardly saw each other. It was when she returned for the day that they got to spend time together.

Bilbo sat in his chair, book in hand as he reread an old story. He’d heard the door open, and Y/N’s voice called out to greet him.

“Bilbo? Are you home?” She asked, used to their arrangement by now, so she’d let herself in. She took care to remove her muddied shoes and went off to store the leftover goods in her room.

“How was your day?” He revealed himself, having abandoned his book and his armchair to meet her in the hallway. He never failed to have a smile on his face upon first sight of her but thought nothing of it.

“Good day for sales.” Y/N beamed, pulling her hair out of its tie and fixing it for the first time all day, “I hardly got a second free to myself.”

“That’s good though, isn’t it?” He asked, “Well, so long as you don’t run out too soon.”

She smiled at that, he always made her feel welcome, and when some of the other hobbits were wary of her, she really appreciated having Bilbo around, “I could always make it two trips a month.”

“May as well just move in at that point.” He joked, though part of him did like the sound of that. He’d love having her as a permanent housemate, perhaps he should suggest it seriously.

Her laugh pulled him from his thoughts, “The neighbors would talk, they wouldn’t be able to speak of anything else.”

He had to agree, but why should he care what his neighbors think? They could do with minding their own business now and again. Before he could reply to her, she started towards the kitchen.

“Can I make you some tea?” She asked, “I’ve been dying for a cup.”

“That would be nice, thank you.” He agreed, parting ways to reshelf his book with the others. He added a log to the fire, expecting the air to grow cold once the sun had set, before he heard her from the kitchen.

He started that way, and nearly asked her to repeat herself before he could make out the sound. She wasn’t speaking to him, but humming quietly. He didn’t want to be rude and barge in, nor did he want to interrupt her and make her stop. So, he rested against the doorway, and bent an ear to the unfamiliar tune.

She set two mugs down, finding spoons and getting those ready as she continued to hum. She was utterly adorable, practically dancing around his kitchen. In that moment, Bilbo realized that he wanted that, all the time.

Bilbo found himself smiling again, the same goofy smile that found its way to his lips whenever she was around. He hadn’t considered why that may be. He hadn’t considered that he may feel romantically towards her, but now that he thought about it, they could be an interesting couple. He certainly cared for her, more than anyone else, perhaps it wouldn’t be a stretch to say he may even love her.

“Bilbo?” He was pulled from his thoughts as she called him, “You’re running low, want me to see if they have some more tea at the market tomorrow?”

“That would be lovely, perhaps I should join you.” He offered, coming into the kitchen, “It could be fun to spend the day at your stall with you.”

She lit up at the suggestion, and Bilbo felt his heart flutter, “Would you? That would be great.”

“It’s settled then.” He agreed, moving to take over the situation with the tea, “Here, let me. Why don’t you change into something more comfortable?”

“I’ve been wanting to all day.” She admitted, squeezing his arm before leaning in to kiss his cheek, “I’ll be back in a minute.”

He just nodded, at a loss for words in the moment. He moved to busy himself with the tea, wondering if he should tell her that he had fallen in love with her, or if he should leave it be for now.

When she returned, in her favorite pajamas and smiling at him, he made his decision. He had to tell her. He didn’t want to give up his favorite part of the month, the time he looked forward to most. He certainly didn’t want someone else to step in and replace him.

He handed her the steeped mug, and held his own by the handle, nodding as she thanked him.

“Would it be too forward of me to ask you to stay?” He asked, hoping he knew the answer.

“Stay? As in move in?” She asked, setting her mug down, “You’re serious?”

“Well, I’ve come to care for you very much.” He began, wanting desperately to find the right words, “You mean a great deal to me, and I would love it if you would come live with me.”

“Are you sure it wouldn’t be a bother?” She asked, hesitating before giving an answer.

“You’re never a bother.” He assured her, squeezing her hand gently, “I love you far too much for you to bother me.”

“Love?” She repeated, “Well, don’t I feel like a fool.”

Bilbo grew worried, “Why is that?”

“I’ve been wanting to tell you how I feel for a very long time.” She admitted, “If I had known, I wouldn’t have waited.”

“So, you’ll stay?” He asked, barely letting her get the word out before he kissed her.

“We’re moving in together.” She grinned when they pulled apart, “I love you.”

“I love you too.” Bilbo replied, catching her in another kiss. Surely, she would be right, the neighbors would talk, but he didn’t care. They hardly ever said anything of note anyways.

[luna-writes-stuff]

Day 12: Into You, Fili Durin

Song link

Fanfic, female! reader

Fluff, everyone lives! au. Yayyy!

Word count: 3042

Tw: Events that happened on the quest to Erebor, so obviously violence, mentions of chases, orcs, etc. Doubts about your future with Fili. Thorin’s perceptions over royal courting differ per fic I think, but here he wants to marry Fili and Kili off to other families for alliances (eventually). Lots of time skips. Mentions of Kili's arrow wound.

Summary: You and Fili have been courting for a year now and you decided to join the quest to Erebor. Fili was hesitant at first, but eventually let you join him. The fic shows the events that happened during the journey.

"I'm so into you, I can barely breathe. And all I wanna do is to fall in deep."

Fili and you had been courting for a while. And with a while, we're talking about a full year now. Of course, Dis knew about the relationship, and Kili was quick to figure it out on his own, but Fili had not told Thorin - or anyone else for that matter - about the two of you.

As Fili grew up, his uncle had told him tales of Erebor, and how he would become a prince to it with his brother. And with the title of prince, responsibilities would come. Thorin had prepared his nephews for royal duties their entire lives. And Fili knew Thorin would never approve of a courtship would it not be royal.

So the dwarf had kept quiet, and you went along with it. You knew the consequences it could hold when Thorin would fin out, so you enjoyed the small moments you had together, not making it too obvious about exactly how close the two of you were.

"But close ain't close enough 'Til we cross the line. So name a game to play and I'll role the dice."

But then the quest to Erebor got announced, and, of course, Fili would be joining alongside his brother and uncle. He had begged for you to not join them. To remain safe in the Blue Mountains with Dis; his mother. You would be secured there, he knew it.

But you were not one to take 'no' for an answer. Especially not when your One's life depends on it. So after weeks of convincing (and getting Kili on your side), Fili had finally allowed you to join, but only if you would stay beside him at all times. He knew how dangerous the journey would be and he would not have you get injured because of it.

Not if he could help it.

"Oh, baby, look what you started; The temperature's rising in here. Is this gonna happen?"

The journey had started out quite well; not much danger yet, except for disastrous wheather. You managed to get your sleep and food, and your daily dose of exercise. It had seemed ideal. Up until one night.

You could not really explain why you could not fall asleep, it had just been something that was currently bothering you. And you had tried nearly everything.

"Go to sleep, Amrâlime." You heard Fili whisper from beside.

"I'm trying." You huffed, turning around to face him, giving him a frustrated look. He just showed you a tiny, but reassuring smile, before squeezing your hand lightly.

"Try for me."

"Been waiting and waiting for you to make a move. Before I make a move."

Before you even had the option to doze off, a loud shreek filled the silent night sky. Fili and Kili immediately seemed on alert as Bilbo walked towards the two.

"What was that?" He asked, visibly worried.

"Orcs. Throat-cutters. There'll be dozens of them out there." Kili spoke, looking at the hobbit solemly. "They strike in the wee small hours, when everyone is asleep. Quick and quiet, just lots of blood."

You rolled your eyes at him as Kili looked towards his brother, a smile making its way onto his face. And you couldn't resist but grin along slightly.

"Give the poor lad a break." You scoffed, though a soft chuckle slipped past your lips. "We're not meant to scare him off."

"Just a light joke, love." Fili teased, resting his hand on your side as he shoved you, only a little. You snickered at his action before pulling the blanket back over your shoulder.

"So baby, come light me up and maybe I'll let you on it. A little bit dangerous, but baby, that's how I want it."

The entire day had been a huge blur for you. Everything went by so incredibly quickly; before you knew it, you were tied up in a sack, ready to began troll dinner.

"This is terrible." You grumbled, as multiple loose pebbles dug into your back.

"Why don't you turn over." Kili proposed.

"Gee, that truly is a great idea. I wonder how I hadn't thought of it earlier." You spoke sarcastically, glaring at the younger Durin. "If only I hadn't been tied up in a sack."

"Be nice" Fili scolded, sending a wink your way. You groaned at him, discontent visible on your face. "I'll get you out there." He offered.

"You can just magic the sack away?" You asked in fake wonder, to which Fili rolled his eyes.

"For that remark alone, I'm letting you in there for ten extra minutes." He warned.

"Oh no, we wouldn't want that to happen. It's not as if I'm future troll dinner or something. That would have been even worse."

"I hate you." The dwarf mumbled in reponse.

"A little less conversation, and a little more touch my body. 'Cause I'm so into you, into you, into you."

"Thought you were gonna keep me in there for ten extra minutes." You joked as Fili worked on open the bag that was still holding you.

"I would never do that." He dramatically stated, before offering his hand to you, which you gratefully took.

You took a quick look around, only to notice everyone was busying themselves freeing the others. Without so much a second thought, you pulled him into your arms, placing a soft kiss on his cheek.

"Thank you for freeing me, my lord." You winked.

"Any time, my lady."

"Got everyone watchin' us, so baby, let's keep it secret. A little bit scandalous, but baby, don't let them see it."

The dwarves had all walked into the trollhoard, hoping to find some form of gold or treasure. You and Bilbo, however, stood outside, bathing in the aftermatch of the anxiety and stress that had been bathing in your blood only a short while ago.

"You look mighty lonely." Someone spoke. You smiled to yourself, looking towards Fili as he neared you, Bilbo busying himself with Gandalf.

"Only because I am waiting on my prince to save me." You returned, walking towards the blond dwarf. He opened his arms as if to invite you and you gladly accepted his offer, walking into his familiar embrace.

"A little less conversation and a little more touch my body. 'Cause I'm so into you, into you, into you."

Fili's arms wrapped around your body as they rested on your back, forcing his body closer to yours. You sighed in content, wrapping your arms around his neck as your head laid on his chest.

"I already hate this." Fili admitted quietly, not breaking his hold on you. "We are only a few days in and we nearly became troll dinner."

"We will manage, Fili. Do not worry for me nor yourself. We can both fend for ourselves and each other. We'll be safe."

"This could take some time. I made too many mistakes. Better get this right."

Arriving at Rivendell had not gone according to plan at all. Even more; you weren't even supposed to end up there in the first place. But even though, Thorin seemed against the idea of visiting the elves, most of the company had been glad to find some source of comfort and peace after the last two exciting days.

And that is exactly what you had decided to do.

"Oh, baby, look what you started; The temperature's rising in here. Is this gonna happen?"

You had been walking along the halls of Rivendell for a while now. How long, you did not know. But it had been long enough for Fili to come look for you.

"There you are, Ghivashel!" The dwarf announced upong seeing your form linger on one of the balconies. "I have been looking all over for you." He admitted, before walking up to you, wrapping his arms around your waist from behind.

You leaned back against his chest in response, taking in the moment of privacy.

"This place is beautiful." You sighed, gesturing towards the large waterfalls in the distance, the bright moon reflecting onto their streams, lighting up the valley. Fili merely hummed in response, dipping his head slightly to place a feather- light kiss on your neck.

"Been waiting and waiting for you to make a move. Before I make a move."

Your hand wandered to the courting bead hidden in your hair, toying with the ends of it. Fili stopped his movements upon noticing your actions.

"What's wrong?" He asked, forcing you to turn around in his arms. "You always fidget with your bead when something is going on."

"I was just daydreaming, don't worry." You assured.

"About what?" He resumed giving you a pointed look.

"Erebor." You declared honestly. "When we arrive and Thorin claims his throne, we will have to let go."

Fili gaped at you, shaking his head. "Do not think those silly thoughts. I did not wait all those years to be with you, just to leave because someone commands me to do so." He defended, grasping your hands as he ran his thumbs over them soothingly.

"Let him talk. I will not listen."

"So baby, come light me up and maybe I'll let you on it. A little bit dangerous, but baby, that's how I want it."

You chuckled at his words, looking down at your intertwined hands. “When we reach the mountain,” Fili began. “You will be beside me. As a true princess.”

You frowned at him, your eyes meeting his. “You cannot simply make me royalty, Fili. We need Thorin’s approval.” You objected, not wanting his heart to get control over his mind and status.

“No, we need my mother’s approval. And we already have that. Thorin has no word over the two of us.”

You contemplated his words. You knew how important Fili’s family had been. You knew from the second your eyes fell on him. And you were no royalty. You knew there was nearly any chance that you would actually end up with him. But now you were further than you had ever been with him. And you were no longer sure on what to do.

“Amrâlime, I’m asking you to marry me. Are you really going to shut me down?” He half-heartedly joked, though his face showed slight hurt.

"A little less conversation, and a little more touch my body. 'Cause I'm so into you, into you, into you."

And now your breath had been caught in your throat. “You’re asking me to marry you?” You whispered, as if speaking the words would make the intention disappear.

“You did not realize yet? I told you I wanted you by my side.” Fili smiled, happy to now know you had not realized his question.

“I thought you meant as consort.” You admitted, mentally punishing yourself for your stupidity.

“As my wife. If you would let me.” Fili clarified. And just like that, all worried and doubts faded from your mind.

"Got everyone watchin' us, so baby, let's keep it secret. A little bit scandalous, but baby, don't let them see it."

"Is that what you truly want?" You quietly asked, your mind running a thousand scenarios, though none of them worried you any longer.

"It is what I have wanted from the day we met." Fili promised solemly, resting his hand on your cheek.

"Than I would be a fool to reject your offer." You smiled, wrapping your arms around his neck as you pulled him into your embrace, laughing as new found joy overcame you.

Fili chuckled in response, before engulfing you in his arms, sending a silent prayer to Mahal as he rest his head against yours.

"You should not fear tomorrow." He whispered into your hair. "You never should have. Our future was secured the minute you agreed on courting me."

"A little less conversation, and a little more touch my body. 'Cause I'm so into you, into you, into you."

The rest of the days seemed to go by in a haze. Your life had been put on the line for multiple times, but Fili - true to his word - had stood beside you the entire time, shielding you from possible deaths or lethal injuries.

You had just been dropped of on a giant rock by the eagles, carefully watching Thorin wake up as Fili held onto your hand, obviously more anxious than he had ever been.

"He'll be fine." You assured. "We got a wizard on our side. He would not let Thorin suffer if he does not have to."

"I know." The dwarf sighed, turning his head to you. "Yet I cannot help but worry."

You gently squeezed Fili's hand in affirmation, watching his expression shift on slightly at the gesture. Yet, it still had effect on him. And it soothed you. For as long as you held that possibility over him.

"Tell me what you came here for. 'Cause I can't, I can't wait no more." I'm on the edge with no control. And I need, I need you to know. You to know."

"We should tell him." Fili suddenly decided. "Would he have died today, he would have never known about us. I do not think I can bare the thought of it."

You closed your eyes at his speech. You know he was right, and you would be heartless to reject his proposal, but you knew Thorin. You knew he'd force you apart. And you did not want to leave Fili. Not any time soon.

"Let him rest." You decided. "We will tell him when he appears healthy again. Then, I will not stop you."

Fili seemed to agree on it, letting his hand wander to your courting bead, trailing his fingers over it lightly. "And no matter what he says, we will stay together. You have my word." Fili swore, before planting a soft, but prominent kiss on your cheek.

"So baby, come light me up and maybe I'll let you on it. A little bit dangerous, but baby, that's how I want it."

"Get some sleep." Gandalf advised as the company finally stepped into Beorn's homage. Everyone had been catching their breath as the wizard looked naught but disappointed. "Our host will meet us tomorrow."

The dwarves all scanned the room, trying to find a place to sleep on. In the mean time, Fili had been walking up to his uncle, forcing you to stay with Kili.

"What is he doing?" The younger Durin wondered, leaning over your shoulder to peek at his brother.

"He is going to tell Thorin about the courtship." You announced, your face holding slight defeat.

"Oh...." Kili acknowledged, before catching onto to your expressive sigh. "You should know that Thorin won't forbid a courtship. It's still dwarven custom." He tried to soothe.

"I am aware we are royalty and all that and we have rules to obey to, but technically speaking, we do not rule anything yet and therefor the royal laws are not yet set in action. Your courtship with Fili won't end because of it. It happened before the start of the laws. They cannot forbid that what has already happened." He ranted on.

"Do not worry. Thorin will be disappointed at most. But I would not even count on it."

"A little less conversation, and a little more touch my body. 'Cause I'm so into you, into you, into you."

Your ears pricked up at those words.

"Really?"

Kili hummed in response, nodding his head proudly. "Would Thorin indeed cut off the coursthip, it would be deemed improper, and that makes him unlikely to rule."

"How do you know all these rules?" You questioned.

"Uncle used to test us on our knowledge when we were younger. It all seemed like garbage then, but now, it might actually come in handy." The young dwarf announced with a smile.

"Your courtship is safe. You can count on that."

"Got everyone watchin' us, so baby, let's keep it secret. A little bit scandalous, but baby, don't let them see it."

After a while, Fili neared you, Thorin now following him. And despite Kili's words, you grew anxious, still unsure of his reaction.

"I am sorry if I ever gave you the intention that I did not mean for you to court my kin." Thorin suddenly spoke, catching you by surprise. "I did not mean for that to happen."

Then, he showed you a smile, a rare yet genuine sight. "You hold my every blessing."

The king opened his arms to you, leaving you with a sigh of relief before stepping into his arms, accepting the embrace. Kili beamed at the interaction as he ran up to his brother, slapping him on the back.

"Thankfully it only took a year." The dwarf joked, his eyes still on Thorin and you.

"A little less conversation, and a little more touch my body. 'Cause I'm so into you, into you, into you."

"Kili, stop toying with it." You scolded as Kili tried to undo the binding around his leg. You had ended up in Lake Town, only a couple miles removed from the mountain, but it was finally in sight. But unfortunately, Kili had been shot. And even though everyone had been out partying, you kept him company, Fili staying with his brother too.

"It's tickling." Kili groaned, leaning his head against the wall.

You sighed, staring down at the bandage. "You cannot touch it until we have new bindings." You explained, as you ran a wet rag over the top of his head.

"And we need to get your fever down." You went on. "And you need to keep pressure off of your leg. Let it take its time to heal."

Suddenly, Fili grabbed your arm softly, turning you towards him. "Amrâlime, let him rest. His stubborness will tire him eventually."

"He needs to heal quicker. It seems as if it's only getting worse." You exclaimed desperately, for once not knowing what to do.

"He's already had a lot of medicine. Maybe some proper night rest will do him good."

"So come light me up, my baby. A little dangerous, my boy. A little less conversation and a little more touch my body."

"How are you feeling?" You tried, after Tauriel left the room, having healed Kili completely.

"Like I'm floating." Kili mumbled, his mind obviously elsewhere. You laughed at his words, turning to Fili.

"Smitten." He mouthed to you, causing you to shoot a wink at him.

"That seems about right." You mumbled, turning back to Kili as you help him sit up.

"You never told me it felt so good." Kili now spoke, looking at his brother.

"I have." Fili returned, his eyes still on your form. "You never lsitened. You told me I was exaggerating."

"You weren't." Kili admitted, slowly coming back to the real world.

"You weren't."

"'Cause I'm so into you, into you, into you."

[gossip-girl-of-middleearth]

The Road Less Traveled (Fellowship x Pregnant!Reader)

Synopsis: Left by a man who took you out of wedlock, you discover halfway through the Fellowship’s journey that you are, indeed, pregnant. Not wishing for you to face motherhood alone, the Fellowship conspires, regarding whom gets to marry you and help raise your child, leaving you with a tough choice.

This was not at all how you saw your life going—both the man leaving you for another woman, and finding out you were pregnant with his baby on a perilous quest, miles upon miles away from the nearest dwelling.

You had been madly in love with this man, unaware he had eyes for another. Your copulating love was taken out of wedlock, a choice you knew had its risks, but Brander had a charming way about him.

You never would have thought he’d leave you. However, one morning, Brander announced the conclusion of your relationship with another woman on his arm.

Heartbroken and enraged, you threw all his clothes from your shack, and took to a horse. Riding swiftly, you headed to the one place you knew hearts were healed; Rivendell.

Upon your arrival, a council of sorts was taking place. One thing led to another, as per usual in your life, and you found yourself on another journey—this time with a higher purpose, and nine other guys.

Things were difficult, but honestly relieving. The fresh air cleansed your soul, as did the healthy relationships you built up with the nine males—proving to you that they weren’t all bad, right on time before you could curse the entire species of XY chromosomes out forever.

However, this was as far as the fun went.

It started with a tiredness the Fellowship brushed off due to your inexperience, and then the lateness of your period. Next, early dawns were spent throwing up in the woods, with whomever was on night-watch holding your hair back, usually Aragorn, Legolas or Boromir.  

You wept slightly when a sparring match with Boromir resulted in a shield hitting your breasts, for they were very tender as of late. The final nail in the coffin was the snubbing of Sam’s usually delicious bacon making you hurl.

Gandalf had taken to speaking with you privately, and asked, in the politest manner possible, if he could assess your womb to find confirmation of another soul.

Legolas approached slowly, crouched down by your side, and spoke responsively in the most apologetic of voices.

“There is no need—I can hear their heartbeat…I am so sorry, Y/n.”

You broke down into tears quickly, and everyone soon knew your predicament that evening. You apologized over and over, and felt utterly mortified. How embarrassing.

They now knew the choice you had made out of wedlock, and were pregnant as a result—something highly frowned upon in human society, and many others in Middle-earth, for that matter. You would no doubt be branded as a “whore” upon your return to society.

You told them all about Brander that night, and opened up to them fully. Jaws were clenched, nervous glances were flashed, and brows were furrowed.

They now had an expectant, first-time mother in their midst, on their way to quite possibly the worst place in the world to take a pregnant woman. Adding onto this, their poor friend, whom they had grown quite close with, was in a horrible situation.

But perhaps it was one they could help with?

Driven by noble blood and true chivalry, the Fellowship started to discuss their options.  

“It’s just awful, what that ‘Brander’ fellow has done to her,” said Boromir, discreetly nodding over in your direction.

You were sat with your head in one hand on a log by the fire, face contorted in misery. Your cheeks and eyes, as well as your nose, were all pink, due to a long while of crying.

Sam sat on one side of you, and held your hand. He reassured you with bright words of soothing promises.

“Don’t worry, Miss Y/n! All will work out! You’ll see! You’re bringing a new soul into this world! That’s nothing to be ashamed of!” Sam would say.

Merry, Frodo and Pippin were on your other side, rubbing your back and holding your shoulder.

“He’s right!” they’d agree, nodding profusely. “You’ll see! This is a wonderful thing. You just can’t quite picture it yet, but you will!”

Gimli, Boromir, Aragorn and Legolas were all huddled in close, standing in a circle. They stood a little further off from the fire, but still caught its glow.

Gandalf was sat on a log himself, puffing away on a pipe. The affairs of human society were not his responsibility, but he offered guidance from a distance nonetheless. He already knew all would work out, but was the only one there oldest and wisest enough to realize so.

Legolas’ arms were folded over his chest, as were the three others’ he stood with. “She’ll be shamed wherever she goes, and her child will be considered a bastard. Truly awful…I feel compelled to help. What can we do?”

“Well, to avoid public slander,” Aragorn spoke up knowingly, “she’d have to be married.”

“Very well and all,” Gimli whispered back, “but were you perhaps not present when she said the scoundrel ran off with another filly?”

“He was not whom I was referencing,” Aragorn mentioned. He threw a studious glance in your direction, and spoke again. “She is a fine young lady, with a strong heart and homely nature. She would make a wonderful wife, and I feel it our duty as her friends to make sure she becomes so.”

“You mean for us to marry her?” Legolas asked, incredulously. His head lowered in shock as he spoke, and a brow arched.

The guys, save for Aragorn, who overlooked it all, glanced between each other tensely, unsure if the alarmed glint in their eyes was competition or fear.

Boromir was the first to speak up.

“I will do it, in a heartbeat!” he said. “You are right, Aragorn—she is a wonderful young lady, and deserves to be wed in time for her child. I will care for them both.”

“Well, now hold on a moment,” Legolas snapped, glaring across at Boromir. “Why do you get to marry her? I am much closer in age to her than you are…figuratively speaking, at least. I should be the one to marry her—we get along best.”

“You?” Gimli snorted. “You will outlive her in the blink of an eye.”

“Oh, and you won’t?” Legolas said back. “None of us implied romance anyways, Gimli. I’d merely be a lifelong friend and guardian for her and her child. I’m the most suited out of everyone here to provide for her—”

“Because you’re a prince?” Boromir interjected, narrowing his eyes.

“Not just because of that,” Legolas bit back, squaring up with Boromir slightly. “But what of it regardless? What does it matter how I provide for her? I plan on renouncing my title and making a life of my own anyways. I might not get the chance for a child of my own, and I can help Y/n raise hers.”

“She’s not some puppy, laddie,” Gimli snorted back. “You both want to store her away in a little cottage or unit somewhere drab. I can provide her with culture! Dwarven culture! Her little one deserves to grow up in grand halls and eat ripened meat!”

Aragorn looked between the unfolding drama, and soon raised a hand before you could become even more distressed. Fortunately, you hadn’t heard a thing of their hushed conversation.

“That is enough,” Aragorn said. “I’d offer to marry her myself, but…well, I do believe you three are better suited than me to provide a stable life for her. It is ultimately up to Y/n. All either three of you can do is offer your hand in marriage to her, and see what she says.”

Glares were thrown between the three potential suitors, as each wondered who’d be the first to turn around and run towards you.

As it turns out, all three turned on their heels at the same. They nearly tripped over one another. However, they stopped almost immediately, for someone on the other side already had the same idea.

“It is quite all right, Y/n,” Frodo said, down on one knee before you, and holding your hand. “The Shire will accept you, and I can just say I fell in love on the road and married you immediately. I have a big house now left all to myself, with many rooms. You can have one to yourself, as can your child. Bilbo did the same for me when I was young.”

You were crying again, but this time out of happiness. Your other hand was placed over your chest, as you smiled down at the kind hobbit with a wavering lower lip.

“Oh, Frodo, that is so incredibly kind, I can only say—”

“DON’T SAY ANYTHING!” Legolas shouted, rushing forwards. He nearly shoved Frodo out of the way, and took his place holding your hand swiftly.

“Y/n,” he began, sincerely, “I’ve always felt that you and I have had a…special bond since beginning this journey together. I can provide you with a cottage in the forest, and true protection. I’m an archer and an elf—your child will learn many life skills with me as their parental guardian. And, furthering this, after you’ve moved on from our world, your child will surely be left behind. I can ensure they are well-cared for up until their own departure!”

“Oh, Legolas, I don’t know what to...” you went to say, holding his hand with both of yours. You were truly starting to get overwhelmed with happiness and relief.

“Oh, shove it, pixie!” Gimli shouted from behind Legolas. He, too, stole the snarling elf’s place, chivalrously removing his helmet as he did so. “Lass, I know I may not be your usual type, or blonde, but I am asking for your hand as well. I can offer you so much in Dwarven society. The women are strong, and you will find ranks in them! Your child will be given an equal chance, no matter the gender, to be themselves! Life in the halls is a true marvel—”

“Enough, the both of you!” Boromir shouted next. He tugged Gimli by the beard and threw him away. “Y/n, you and I are both humans. I understand you and our shared culture better than anyone else here! Please, nothing would make me happier than to provide for you as my wife. Not to mention, the child will look most like me, racially-wise.”

The hobbits all looked between each other with shocked smiles, intrigued by the situation, and Gandalf and Aragon merely shook their heads.

Legolas grabbed hold of Boromir’s shoulder and stood him up. “Race has nothing to do with it! If we’re really going to narrow this down to looks, I am the tallest! That is highly desirable in a husband! Y/n and her child will live a wonderfully secure and safe life with me. You need to back off.”

“Why don’t you make me?” Boromir bit back.

Before a fight could break out between the two of them, Gimli hopped into the middle and added his own string of harsh words.

The three suitors of differing races soon began to bicker between themselves, leaving you sat on the log very stunned indeed.

However, after a long while of listening to them argue over who gets to marry you, you put up your hand and silenced them. Although, it took a good few shouts until they shut up completely and curiously blinked down at you.

“Boys. Boys! BOYS!” Once the attention was on you, you spoke again. “I am so incredibly flattered by your equal devotion, it has truly made me feel better about everything, but...do I not get a say in whom I marry out of everyone here?”

Legolas moved his body slightly, so he stood facing you straight. “Well, whom do you choose, my lady?”

Frodo had backed off entirely, but shared a lipped smile with you, ultimately letting you know the offer was still on the table regardless. Boromir, Gimli and Legolas all stared at you optimistically, leaning forwards as they waited for your reply.

Stumped by so many choices, and considering you didn’t even know this would be a part of your life plan up until five hours ago, you went with the smartest choice; waiting.

“These are all very early days…” you began. “I’m very overwhelmed by all the offers, and still getting used to the idea of motherhood, and now marriage—”

You took a calming breath.

“You’re all so sweet, and I truly appreciate your support, but…could I perhaps sit on it for a while, and return with an answer at a later time? This is a very big decision, as you can all imagine.”

They quickly agreed, and nodded their heads vehemently.

“Take all the time you need!” they said reassuringly, in one form or another.

That night, they all waved sweet “goodnights” over their shoulders to you, and even gave up their cloaks and packs to create what they deemed the perfect “mother’s nest” for you to sleep on.

It was all very sweet, and warmed your heart. However, although half the problem was solved, you were presented with another; who on earth were you going to choose to marry and raise your unborn child with?

Actually, the more you thought about it that night, as you fell asleep with nine friends protecting you as you slept in the middle, like a herd of animals keeping their mother-to-be safe, the more you realized you already knew exactly whom you wanted to live with.

[midearthwritings]

Be Mine

A flower, for he must know your heart belongs to him.

Words Count : 2,138

Pairing : Dwalin x Hobbit!Reader

Warning : None

Author's Note : A little Valentine's day special because I'm soft for Dwalin and hobbit reader. Sorry not sorry (at all).

And because I'm feeling extra nice, here is an article that will tell you all about Valentine's Day's origins, back to its pagan roots.

Cradled in your hands, the fragile flower was lying comfortably, waiting for you to finally make your move. Its red petals were big and bright, free of any damage the weather or wild animals could have caused. They were staring back at you, reassuringly. You could almost hear them whisper soothing words. Carefully, you brought it to your face and inhaled the lovely smell, black pistils tickling your nose. It wasn't as beautiful as the ones you grew, back home. And if you had been in the Shire, you would have gathered a big bouquet. But you were not in the Shire, you were on the road, probably walking to your ultimate death. And there wasn't any garden, only wilderness. So this single wild tulip would have to do.

Before, this day had meant nothing. It had been an excuse for those who where merely interested in you to gift you with bouquets. And each time, they had been met with rejection. Until now, the only love you had ever felt had been for your friends and your garden. Back in the comfort of your Hobbit hole, only the Sun rising each morning had been able to make your heartbeat quicken.

Now, it was different. The feelings had taken you by surprise, and for long you had refused to acknowledge them. But when you were traveling with the one your heart so desired, and had to see him at every moment given, it was hard to stay in denial.

The flower was still there, reminder that you were to gift it to him.

But how?

You turned around, looking at him from your spot. Even doing something as simple as packing his belongings, he looked so very intimidating. Centuries separated the two of you. He had seen war, disasters. He knew of sorrow and death. As for you, well, a piece of pottery you really liked fell to the floor, once, it had made you sad. Compared to him, you were just a simple Hobbit from the Shire that everybody would forget about after they passed.

You sighed and your eyes dropped back on the tulip. Gently, you brushed the pad of your thumb against a petal. It was soft under your touch. Like an infant's skin.

"What is it that ye have there?"

Startled, you jumped—quite harshly—, sending the flower to the ground. With an annoyed squeal, you picked it up and blew on it a little to get rid of any dust or dirt that had found its place on the poor vegetal. You stood up, facing the dwarf.

From afar, he had been intimidating, but here, right in front of you it was worse. His tall frame, taller than the others, swallowed you up whole. His insistent gaze was piercing right through your soul and you felt your blood rushing to your face.

Perhaps, now was your only chance. The company would have to depart soon and you wouldn't stop until night. The pounding in your chest was echoing in your entire body.

With one last glance at the delicate little thing, you held your hands out to him.

"It is, ah, it is a flower." You stuttered, looking anywhere but at him. " It is a flower for, for you."

Maybe you had spoken louder than you intended to, because you were surrounded with silence. To make it even worse, you knew all eyes were on you, as if you were some sort of strange creature no one had ever seen before. Actually, you were, given the fact that most of them had never met a Hobbit before. But that was not the point now, was it?

Brush of rough fingers against yours made you look back up and you watched, embarrassed, as the soldier took the flower away from your grip. His eyes were glued to the tiny looking plant in his hand, and his eyebrow rose up slowly.

"A flower?" He asked, his eyes meeting yours again. "For me?"

Another shy squeal escaped your lips, and you nodded rapidly.

"What d'ye want me to do with it?"

The words were like a punch right in the stomach. It had taken you time to pick the prettiest out of the lot. You had chosen it with care and love. Did he not like it? If the feelings were not returned, why would he take it? To publicly humiliate you, or something like that?

Defeated, your shrugged your shoulders and brought your hand to your lips. A bad habit of yours when you were feeling down, and today was no exception. You began to chew on your thumb before having your hand batted away.

"Don't do that. Ye'll make yerself bleed."

You muttered a quiet apology. Dwalin shook his head and placed the flower in one of his pockets, on his chest. He patted the place and you frowned. Now this was unusual. In the Shire, if one didn't return another's feeling, they wouldn't take the gift. They would politely reject the offer and move on. And hadn't the dwarf just rejected you?

"Pack yer things, Halfling, we're leavin soon."

And with that, he walked away, leaving you alone and confused.

That day, the weather was on the company's good side. The Sun was clement, so was the wind. You were walking in the front, alongside of Thorin's nephews, unaware that you were being watched. You hadn't been the only one left tormented with the events of the morning. All the way in the back of the line, Dwalin was lost in his thoughts, the flower still secured in his pocket. His mind was filled with questions, such as why you would gift him with a thing as useless as this one. At the broken look on your face when he had asked, he hadn't been able to find the strength to refuse. And so, the soldier was now traveling with a flower stuck in his clothing.

Carefully, he approached the only one who he thought would be able to help him out.

"Burglar."

The same way you had this morning, Bilbo jumped, startled by Dwalin's deep voice. His hand found its way up to his chest, resting in the place of his heart.

"Master Dwalin, you have to stop creeping behind people like that. One of this days, someone's heart will stop beating."

Sensitive Hobbits. So easily scared. The dwarf was still wondering why the wizard had brought the both of you along. A poor excuse of a burglar and you. But he was in no place to question the decision. And so, he got along with it.

Carefully, to avoid damaging it, he grabbed the flower and showed it to the Hobbit. The latter frowned and held his hands up.

"Ah..." He began, his cheeks reddening. "I am very flattered but, ah well, how to say that? The feeling is not returned."

The burglar's nonsense made Dwalin shake his head. It was terrifying the quantity of absurdities Hobbits mouths could produce.

"What are ye sayin burglar? Yer little friend up there..." He explained, pointing at you. "Yer little friend up there gave me this. Why?"

Bilbo's eyes followed the direction of the Dwarf's fingers and his eyes met yours. He watched as you quickly looked away. A smile grew on his lips, illuminating his face. Now, this was very interesting. A merry event, indeed. A strange choice, he thought. But well, it was not his place to say anything. In all those years of friendship, he had had to watch you refuse gift after gift, bouquets after bouquets. Love wasn't made for you, you only loved your friends. Or so you had said. He snickered, rather loudly.

His face radiating with a joy that made the dwarf uncomfortable, he explained :

"Well, Master Dwalin, it is a tulip. Oh, those we grow in the Shire are so much prettier. But I find this one to be very beautiful, very well chosen. I must say a bouquet of this specie would look very lovely and I would-"

"Will ye tell me why or not?"

Bilbo nodded at the soldier's interruption of his rambling.

"Once a year, Hobbits give flowers to those dear to them. It is a day to honour the ones we have wed, or confess our feelings. And tulips, Master Dwalin, in the language of flowers, mean the first confession of love."

Intriguing creatures. But not an unexpected gesture, coming from them. Dwalin looked down at the small plant. It didn't look the same. It was softer, like you. Its scent reached the Dwarf's nose. He hadn't been there for long but he could remember the essence that had floated in your home. And it smelled like it, like your home. It reminded him of you in every way, no matter which angle he looked at it. Now, he could see.

"I need yer help some more, burglar."

The night wasn't particularly scary to you. It was something peaceful, even. And night was often the time of grand parties amongst Hobbits. Yet, far from everything you knew, it wasn't comforting either. Silently, you sat on your bedroll, far from the fire.

You sighed. Sometimes, you felt very lonely. You missed your friends dearly. Oh yes, you were happy that Bilbo was there with you. It made things a bit easier to go through. But it was not the same.

The tulip was still haunting your thoughts. Bright, beautiful and proud, living its best life in your beloved's garment. It had been mocking you all day long, the vivid color reminding you of the answer you were not given. Or rather the upsetting one he had served you. Childishly, you kicked at the ground and crossed your arms on your chest. It was unfair.

You froze, when a big hand was laid on top of your head.

"Ye seem mad, Halfling."

At the familiar voice, you relaxed. Although there was still tension in your shoulders. It seemed Fate wasn't done with you and wanted to torture you a little more.

You shook your head, chasing the hand away.

"That, I am not. Anger makes you stupid, and stupid gets you killed."

His laughter, loud and deep, pulled a little smile out of you. You stayed still as he sat down to your side.

"This is very well said. Yer startin to think like a real warrior."

At his compliment, your heart swell, and your body threatened to burst out with pride. In the corner of your eye, you could see the red glint of the petals, and the feeling died down. You wanted to rip it out of here, throw it on the ground and step on it the same way it had stepped on your love. But at the same time, you wished it would live timelessly for the dwarf to keep and cherish.

You sighed, for the hundredth time, when a folded piece of fabric came into your sight, making you flinch a little. Curious, you inspected it. It was simple, and you were certain it had been ripped from a clothing. The bumps told you there was something inside.

You looked up at your friend.

"What is it?"

"Take it. For ye." He replied, pushing it closer to you.

Hesitantly, you obeyed. With a swift of his hand, he ordered you to take a look inside.

Slowly, you unfolded it, revealing what it contained. The small branche decorated with dozens of tiny purple flowers caught your eyes first. It was radiant, and you couldn't believe he had managed to find some in the little time that had been given to him. You smiled, bringing it up to your face to inhale the sweet perfume.

Putting it back down, you noticed there was something else. A tiny piece of steel with a hole in it. It was engraved, the patterns really clear and neatly made.

"Yer burglar friend said Hobbits court each others with flowers." He explained, pointing at the plant. "Us, dwarves, we court with clasps we braid into our partner's hair."

Your head shot up. There was no hint of mockery on his face. You had offered him your heart, and he was now offering you his.

"Master Dwalin I-"

"Now, will ye deny me?"

You shook your head. That, you would not do. For sure. If it was no jokes, and it didn't look like one, you would not be as foolish as to deny a thing you had hoped for.

Delicately, you picked the small piece of hair ornament and handed it to your soldier, a soft smile tugging at your lips.

"Will you braid my hair, then?"

And so he did, working his strong fingers through your mane gently, while you cradled his other gift close to your heart.

Lilac, for the first feeling of love.

[mirkwoodshewolf]

TCATC Chap. 14; Travel through Mirkwood

*Author’s note*

Now this was certainly an interesting chapter to write because I really tried to get the strain of dark madness magic that’s affected Mirkwood and have it be affect Hela as well without her realizing it, in case if anything’s unclear, the next chapter will hopefully clear the air as to why a random fight scene is added here. Hope you enjoy this chapter and the next chapter after that my dears.

NEXT CHAPTER HERE

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@psychosupernatural​

@ixchel-9275​

@peter-parkers-cullen-nerd​

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@queensdivas​

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We rode over the hills of the Wilderland and within several hours we finally reached the forests of Mirkwood.  The woods I once saw as a child that was filled with lush green leaves during the summer, and in the autumn it’s beauty could rival that of Rivendell’s autumn glow.  But since the start of the 3rd Age, the forest has greatly changed and not for the better.

The trees were barren of even a single lush green leaf, and the trunks sucked of any rich nutrients.  The whole forest had fallen sick and had an aurora of darkness about it.  Gandalf got off his horse and together the two of us walked and stood at the Elven gate.

Any leaves that were there had been dried and left there to rot on the ground like an infected wound.  Dried up vines twisted over the stone statues, including over the very figurine of Thranduil’s beloved Queen, Calen.

“The Elven gate.” Gandalf softly spoke.

“It’s a shame of how greatly this once lush forest has fallen.” I said to Gandalf in Elvish.

“Yes. Especially after Thranduil’s wife was lost to him. She was the caretaker of this forest and all its creatures.” Gandalf said back to me in Elvish.  He turned to the company and said, “Here lies our path through Mirkwood.”

“No sign of the orcs. We have luck on our side.” Dwalin said as he unmounted himself from his pony followed by the rest.  Gandalf and I looked outward and saw on top of a cliff Beorn in his bear form.

“Set the ponies loose. Let them return to their master.” Gandalf told the company.  He walked further into the gate and I heard Bilbo say as he walked up to me.

“This forest feels—sick. As if a disease lies upon it.”

“Yes Bilbo. This forest has greatly suffered through this pass Age. If Cersei were to see what became of this once greenwood forest, she would be heartbroken. For she helped forge the Greenwood to be as grand as it once was when Oropher first settled here.”

“Is there nothing you could do to heal this forest? I mean, you-you do have your sister’s elemental magic after all.” Bilbo asked me.

“Yes. However to heal this entire forest would drain every ounce of my strength. Even if I could help heal this forest I do not have the strength to do so. Remember back at the Misty mountains? And that was just with one tree alone.” He looked down solemnly remembering that night when we first ran into Azog.  I patted his back comfortingly.

“Well if Hela’s healing magic is out of the question, is there no way around?”

I do not blame Bilbo’s hesitance for entering this forest. For the sickness is oozing out a dark energy that was even making me hesitant to walk through.  I could hear the trees creaking and groaning and dark whispers echoing through the darkness.

“Not unless we go 200 miles north or twice that distance south.” Gandalf told Bilbo as he stepped further into the Elven gate.  I looked into the forest and could hear the whispers growing louder, some were even calling my name.  My mind went fuzzy as they kept saying my name along with some words I could barely make out.

“Hela? Hela?!” I snapped out of my daze to see Fili at my side. “Are you alright?”

“Yeah. Yes Fili I’m fine.” I said with a tight smile.  He looked at me skeptically before returning back to Kili and gathering his weapons.  I walked over to the brothers and said to Fili.  “You should really teach me how to hide that many weapons on my person. I still don’t understand how you’ve managed to do it.”

“It’s a gift.” Fili said with a cocky shrug and a playful grin.

“Mother always called him her little arsenal hoarder. She still hasn’t forgiven you for sneaking a dagger on you when we were barely old enough to wield a sword much less a dagger.” Kili said with a laugh.

“I always say you can never be too prepared. And on a quest like this, it’s better to be prepared for anything. And I’ll be willing to teach you about what weapons you could manage to hide, if you’re ever interested Hela.” Fili said.

“I’d be honored.” I said with a bow of my head.

“Not my horse! I need it!” Gandalf suddenly exclaimed as he raced over to the horse that Nori was starting to unsaddle.

“You’re not leaving us?” Bilbo said incredulously.

“I would not do this unless I had to.” Gandalf said to Bilbo.

“Gandalf what’s the meaning of this where are you going?” I asked him.

“Questions need answering, answers that I cannot find here.”

“Then let me go with you.”

“No! You pledged by blood to protect this company and you shall fulfill that pledge till the end. They’re going to need you, especially through this forest. Stay with them and don’t you dare leave them.” He ordered me. The look in his eyes held a slight fear in them, almost as if what he was going to search for may in fact be what I fear to be true deep down.

“Very well Gandalf. Just be safe old friend.” I gave him a kiss on the cheek for luck and protection before entering the gate.  As Bilbo and Gandalf quietly spoke to one another I noticed how Bilbo’s been fiddling with his pocket a lot more than I’ve seen.  Just what exactly was this Hobbit fiddling with so carefully?

“I’ll be waiting for you at the overlook, before the slopes of Erebor. Keep the map and key safe. Do not enter that mountain without me.” Gandalf told the dwarves and at his last statement, he drilled it into Thorin’s mind.  As Gandalf stood by his horse he warned the company, “This is not the Greenwood of Old. There is a stream in the woods that carries a dark enchantment. Do not touch the water. Cross only by the stone bridge. The very air in the forest is heavy with illusion it’ll seek to enter your mind and lead you astray.”

“Lead us astray? What does that mean?” Bilbo repeated Gandalf’s warning.

“Hela’s Celestial magic will be your guiding light, so long as you keep sight of her she will not let you fade. She will keep you on the path and make sure you don’t leave it. Because if you do, you’ll never find it again.” Gandalf spoke as he mounted his horse.  He urged his horse to turn and with one final warning, he rode off. “No matter what may come, stay with Hela on the Path!”

“Come on. We must reach the mountain before the sun sets of Durin’s Day. Hela, lead us on.” Thorin said as he walked through his company and into the forest.  I nodded and they all followed behind me.  Not a single one of them racing on ahead of lagging behind me as we entered the forests of Mirkwood.

The sun was now gone from our sights due to the trees and leaves shielding us from it’s warmth and guiding light.

So now it was up to my tracking skills to find the path through touch.  I brushed the dead leaves with my foot and felt around to see which way the path would turn for the leaves would disguise themselves on the ground like the path to lead us astray.

“Path turns this way.” I told them.  We went left and walked up a slight hill that lead us down in a winding, curvy trail alongside the bigger trees of the forest.  Dwalin began to feel the ground with his axe and he said as he heard a clunk of rick against his axe.

“This way.”

“No not that way. It’s a fools path.” I told him.

“A fools path? What do you mean?” asked Thorin.

“Thranduil began to grow suspicious of travelers shortly after the passing of his Queen. So he had some of his elves create a fool’s path to confuse intruders in his realm. To better sure the safety of his people.”

“Then how do we know we’ve been going the right way?” Dwalin asked suspiciously.

“To most you can’t tell which rocks lead to the real path or a fool’s path. That’s why I’ve kept low to the ground at every corner turn. There’s a different texture of rock. The fool’s path feels slightly bumpier than the stones that guide us on the real path.” Thorin nodded and told everyone to go right instead of left.

“Air, I need air.” Bofur said.

“My head, it’s swimming.” Oin also complained too.

“I know, I know. But the quicker we get through the path, the quicker we’ll be out of this forest my friends.” I told them.

I knew the dark magic of this forest was starting to affect them, I wouldn’t want to tell them this but it was also starting to get to me too. The dark magic within this forest isn’t your average dark magic, this is something—far more powerful.  Just like Radagast said, this is a dark and terrible magic.  And it was almost like it was trying to call out to me for I kept hearing voices whispering my name every now and again.

After a little more walking we finally came to the bridge that Gandalf told us about.  However the bridge had been destroyed long ago which left us at a disadvantage.  Now if I recall there was once a boat docked nearby but it was now gone, where could it have gone to?

“We found the bridge.” Kili announced to the company.

“Bridge.” Bofur repeated.  We all came to the edge of the bridge and Bofur suggested. “We could try and swim it.”

“Didn’t you hear what Gandalf said? A dark magic lies upon this forest. The waters of this stream are enchanted.” Thorin said.

“Doesn’t look very enchanting to me.” Bofur grumbled.

“Not all enchantments are beautiful Bofur.” I informed him as I looked down into the dead waters of the stream before us.

“We must find another way across.” Thorin stated.

“There used to be a boat here last time I ventured through here. But—now it’s just gone. Maybe they took it downstream or—”

“We won’t have time Hela, we must find a way to cross now.” Thorin told me.

“Hey, what about these?” Kili spoke up.  We all looked to see a bunch of thick, strong vines surrounding the lake.  Some of them curved down and dove into the water, while others twisted and contorted around each other creating a swing.  “These vines look strong enough.” Kili was just about to go onto the first vine when Thorin stopped him.

“Kili!” Kili and the others turned to their king as he said. “We send the lightest first.” And that’s when everyone turned to Bilbo.

“Send me first.” I said.

“Hela—” Thorin started but I told him.

“I may not look it but Celestials are light on their feet. In fact we’ve been known to be just as light as any Elf in Middle Earth. Able to walk on top of snow and some of us like Cersei were able to walk along the very waters of Middle Earth. Please Thorin allow me to go first. At least that way I’ll be able to help anyone out who may need it when you come to the other side.” The dwarf king turned to me and then to his company.

“Very well.” I nodded to him and walked towards the vines. I carefully looked at it and grabbed it with my right hand first.  While in my left I felt a hand grab mine, I turned to see it was Kili.

“Just in case, I’ll pull you back up.” I smiled at him and nodded in gratitude.

“Okay.” I sighed exhaled.  One….two…three! I stepped off the bridge and onto the first vine and already I felt the vine beneath my feet swing.  I gripped the vine above my as tight as I could while Kili used his strength to hold me up as best he could.  I then turned to Kili and told him to let go.

At first he was hesitant but one look in my eyes told him that I would be alright.  He released my hand and I joined that hand alongside my other one as I slowly began testing each vine out.  Even with the lightest step I could muster, the vines still swung about and I even almost fell over.

“Definitely not this way!” I advised as I moved over to the next set of vines that lead me closer to the streams.

‘Hela…..Hela.’ the voice called out to me again.  However this time it was a voice I knew all too well.  But it-it couldn’t be. ‘Hela please help us. The Deviants are back.’

“Ikaris?” my foot suddenly wobbled and I nearly fell into the water had it not been for some quick foot work in wrapping my legs around another vine and great core-strength in bending upward so that I could avoid touching the water.

“Hela? Are you alright!?” Fili called out to me.

“Fine just fine. I uhh—found another problem. Definitely don’t go for this path here.” I pulled myself back up and continued onward till I finally was able to get to the other side.

‘Hela! Hela please help us!’ this time it was Phastos’ voice I heard.

‘Please sister you’re the only one who can help us!’ Sprite’s voice soon cried out in my head.

‘We need you little sister. Find us!’ Gilgamesh too?

“No, no, no, no this is a trick! SILENCE!!” I exclaimed as I turned around.  “Oh bugger.” What I saw before me was just utter chaos.

All the dwarves plus Bilbo decided it was a good idea to go all at once across the vines.  Sure the vines seemed to hold up but for how long? Some of them were hanging on for their lives as they crossed each vine one by one, while others were hopping from one vine to the next like rabbits hopping along in the fields.

I slapped myself awake before I saw Bilbo and Thorin coming in close to me.  I stood up and reached out my hand for Bilbo and he took it as I helped him off the vines right as Thorin jumped down beside us.

“You both okay?” I asked them.

“Ye-yes yes fine. Fine all good. Slight problem with some of those vines but—all……good.” Bilbo’s voice wavered a bit.  I cupped the side of his face and I could see his eyes weren’t looking into mine.  He was looking in my general direction but he wasn’t fully looking me in the eyes.

“Oh Bilbo. Hang on. Oh I hope this works.” I used Ajak’s gem piece and touched the Hobbit’s temples with my finger tips and saw them beginning to glow.  Golden veins lit up onto Bilbo’s temples as he let out a gasp and looked around frantically.  “Easy Bilbo, easy it’s just me.”

“Hela? Wha-what just……”

“The dark magic of this forest was starting to make you go blind. I don’t know if the healing will last long but for now you’re alright.”

“Thank you Hela. Truly I….” suddenly there was a large splash from the water and I saw a shocking sight.

Bombur had fallen asleep and had fallen into the waters of the stream.  Without even thinking, I raced into the waters and using Gilgamesh’s strength, I picked Bombur up from under his arms and dragged him out of the water.

One by one each of the dwarves were finally getting to the other side and when they saw me dragging Bombur out, they helped as best as they could.

“Bombur! Bombur!” Bofur exclaimed.

“Wake up you great fat oaf!” Bifur snapped in Khuzdul.

“Oh please Hela help him!” Bofur said to me worriedly.  I touched my hand over Bombur’s heart and used Ajak’s magic to heal him.  But even as the glow died down, Bombur still did not wake up.

“What? No, no, no that’s impossible.” I then placed my hands to Bombur’s temples much like I did to Bilbo and used more of her healing power to try and awaken Bombur from his slumber.

I kept trying to push myself to giving him more healing magic but Fili and Kili separated from me telling me to stop.

“No! I—I can’t let him die!”

“He’s not dead Hela. He’s asleep! A deep sleep it would seem.” Fili told me.

“He’s right. You did your best. Besides your nose was starting to bleed again just like back on the Misty Mountains.” I reached up to touch my nose and just like Kili said, I saw blood on the tips of my fingers.  I turned to Thorin and pleaded for forgiveness.

“Forgive me Thorin. I—I cannot awaken him.”

“It’s not your fault Hela. You did your best. Fili and Kili are right. We cannot have you draining your powers like before. Not in this place. Make a stretcher for Bombur! If he will not awaken, we’ll have to carry him.”

At that decree, the other dwarves groaned but obeyed their kings command.  I looked down at Bombur and took off some of the dried up leaves that stuck to his face.

“You did your best, that’s all we could ask for.” Fili assured me as I felt his hand grip my shoulders.  But not enough.  It’s never enough. No matter how much I try, or how hard or long I train to use my siblings and Celestial Prime’s magic, it’s never enough.  Not without dealing with the expense of draining my own energy.

“We need to get out of here.” I said as I stood up and walked off.

We kept on walking but now with half the company needing to carry Bombur’s deadweight, we were forced to take more rests than what I was comfortable with.

“We need….to take a rest.” Nori said as he and the others stopped.  I could see the company’s body language swaying and growing faint.  And the voices kept whispering in my ear.  Not only the voices of my fallen family but also dark whispers, chatters and clicks in the dark.

“Those voices…..can you hear them?” Bilbo slurred out. Wait he could hear those voices too?

“I hear nothing.” Thorin slurred back.  “No wind…..no birds….. What hour is it?”

“I do not know.” Dwalin answered back in the same manner. “I do not even know what day it is.”

“This is taking too long.” Thorin responded. “Is there no end to this accursed forest!?” he then shouted.

“None that I can see.” Glóin responded. “Only trees and more trees!” the magic of this forest was now really starting to affect every member of this company to the worst possible level.  The madness seeping into their minds and I could tell from the distant look in Thorin’s eye he was going to lead them off the path.

“This way.” My fears were confirmed.

“Gandalf said—” Oin slurred but as Thorin pushed through his company, he snapped.

“Do as I say. Follow me!” I quickly got in front of him stopping him from going any further. “Out of my way!!!”

“You will stay on this path Thorin Oakenshield! Your mind is being toyed with! If you leave this path, you and your company will be lost forever in this forest!”

“And how do we trust that you haven’t gotten us lost? It’s in your name after all—the Celestial of Death.”

“He’s right. She could’ve been leading us off the pathway the entire time!” Dori exclaimed.

“She’s responsible for getting us this lost!!” Nori shouted as he pointed at me.

‘They dare insult you. Show them who you really are.’ A dark whisper said in my head.  My blood boiled but I tried to calm them down.

“This is not who you are. Any of you. If we stick to the path, we’ll get out of here safely and in one piece.”

“I’ll never listen to another word of you Celestial of Death!” it was then I was roughly shoved aside by Thorin and he quickly guided the others out of path and deeper into the forest.  All but Bilbo, Fili and Kili were left.  The brother staring at me while Bilbo was fiddling with something along the trees.

“Hela he—”

“My brother Ikaris was right. Dwarves never see us Celestials as friends.” I said as I got up and just left them.  Maybe it was the magic, or maybe the hurtful words of the group that I came to accept as an extended family, I don’t know.  All I remember was getting up and walking away, trying to dry up the tears building in my eyes.  Fili and Kili shouting out my name.

I walked and walked and walked, the voices in my head tempting me to act against the dwarves.

‘Show them who you are. One snap of your fingers and you could end their lives. You are a Goddess! The Goddess of Death! Show those mortal dwarves they mean nothing to you.’

“Whoever is playing games SILENCE YOUR TONGUE!!” I slurred before roaring out.  But all I got was as a response was an eerie silence.  At least until I heard something.  A sound I hoped I would never hear again.

A roar.  But not just any type of roar.  This roar was like mixing a dragon, bear and nundu all in one.  It pierced the air of the forest and a cold shiver ran up my spine. I heard the snap of a branch and even felt the earth begin to shake.

I raced onward following the shiver and there along the side of a mountain there it was.  It’s sleek, shadow-like body walked along the edge like a lizard but it’s body was in the shape of what looked like a combination of a bear and wolf.  It had the front have shape of a bear with its large paws and razor sharp claws, but the lower half had a wolf—or well a wargs’ back legs for running.

The snout was more bear like but it’s teeth poked out from its lips and were sharp like a warg’s teeth but longer.  Very long, I’d say even about as long as an Elvish dagger. It walked along sniffing the ground until it’s head perked up and it turned to me.  It’s piercing sunlight eyes stared directly at me as it let out a roar and charged right for me.

*3rd Person POV*

The fight was brutal and bloody.  Sharp teeth and claws lunged at Hela.  And though she fought back as hard as she could, this Deviant was the fastest moving one she had ever dealt with that was this size.

She was barely even able to get it to stay down before it would lift itself back up and hit her back twice as hard.  With a sharp cry of pain she fell down the side of the cliff before landing on her stomach onto a ledge.

Hela pushed herself up against the ledge she was lucky to land on.  Her body littered in scars and her arm bleeding pretty badly. She gripped her arm and heard Bilbo’s voice from above her.

“Hela!”

“Bilbo no! You have to get out of here!” she exclaimed.

“What?”

“The Deviant! BEHIND YOU!!!” When Bilbo turned he yelped as before him stood the Deviant.  He had faced down orcs, wargs, and was going up against a dragon but (only in stories) had he thought to actually see a Deviant live before him. The Deviant roared down at the Halfling when a rock was thrown at its head.

“Hey demon! Come on over here!” Kili exclaimed as he threw another stone at it.

“Come on Deviant you want a real challenge? Come this way!” Fili said as both he and his brother armed themselves with their swords.  The Deviant huffed and began walking towards the young dwarf princes.  Hela took out Aeglos and held the wooden end to Bilbo so that he could pull her up while she gripped a few inches below where the blade of Aeglos began.  Bilbo held as tightly as he could while Hela scaled up the side of the mountain and fell to her back.

“Why did you come?”

“We were worried and Fili and Kili they—”

“They’re fools. Deviants aren’t affected by Mortal weapons. They’re just gonna get themselves killed.” She pushed herself up but Bilbo tried to get her to stop since she already looked like hell.

“Hela wait—you-you’re injured. And that arm looks pretty bad.”

“I don’t have time to argue Master Hobbit. Now get those two idiots out of here and leave this to me!” she shifted her armor to her sister Thena’s white and gold armor and raced after the Deviant with Bilbo at her tail.

Fili and Kili stood strong and firm but all it took was one swipe of its large paw to send both brothers flying into the air near a crack in the mountain.  They fell through it and were hanging onto each other for dear life with their swords in the rock as their only anchor.

While Hela fought round 2 against the Deviant, Bilbo raced over and quickly grabbed Fili out of the hole since he was the closest.

“Kili!” Fili exclaimed to his little brother.  His sword was barely able to hold on and as Kili was about to fall deep within the earth, both he and Bilbo gripped onto Kili’s hands and tried to pull him up.

Hela swung Aeglos (which was charged with Thena’s Celestial magic) at the Deviant’s face which scarred it up and it swung it’s paw at her trying to take her down.  She then stabbed the Deviant in the chest and using as much strength as she could muster, she managed to pin the Deviant down.  However an exclaimed cry broke her concentration.

Fili and Bilbo were struggling to get Kili back up onto the mountain and next thing she knew, she was pinned to the ground, claws scrapping her back repeatedly as she let out the most agonizing screams her throat ever made until she just lay there on her stomach limp.

The Deviant huffed and turned it’s attention back to her friends. Huffing and walking towards them. It’s eyes studying them a bit closer as there seemed to be Celestial magic radiating off of the three of them, and it was strong magic too.

As it is with the way of the Deviants, tendrils began to come out from its back as it walked towards them, wanting to drain them of that magic before they would turn to stone.  Hela slowly began to move and she saw the sight that was before them.  Memories of how each one of her brothers and sisters were sent to that fate, if that Deviant found out they weren’t really Celestials, the three of them would be ripped to shreds.

She saw Aeglos just an inch away from her and she gripped it tight in her hand.  The Celestial imprints of Thena’s magic surrounded Aeglos and she let out a cry before slamming the blade of Aeglos straight into the Earth and then pulling as hard as she could.

The earth between the Deviant and her friends cracked and the Deviant stopped sensing that something wasn’t right.  Finally after struggling to get him back up, Kili was finally able to see the horror that would befall the three of them.

“Hela?” Bilbo asked.

“HELA!!!!” Fili and Kili cried out.  She only looked at them, the white streaks of her hair blocking her face as she gripped Aeglos tighter in both her hands and sent them a final telepathic message.

‘Farewell…….my brothers.’ Then the side of the cliff began to break and crumble apart. The Deviant tried to run but anywhere it went, the rock underneath it’s feet broke apart.  Even as it hung on for dear life, it too soon fell along with Hela and the rest of the mountain down into the waters below.  As loud and quickly as the mountain side fell, all went quiet and still once more.

Downstream as the current was soft with only a few bumps of waterfalls a body was gently floating down the current.  A mixture of blood and earth covered her body, her armor was torn by claw marks and teeth.

The body that floated down the stream was Hela.  Her body would dip down into the water before remerging back to the surface until finally she was forced up along the shore of rock and the light of the sun shined down upon her.

Shortly after being brought to shore a figure stood before her.  He knelt down to observe her more closely.  Taking away the wet strands of hair that blocked her face and getting a closer look at her uniform he could see that she was neither from the World of Men nor from another Elvish kingdom.

She slightly stirred and her eyes faintly opened but all she could see was a bright Elvish light surrounding her and long blonde hair.

“H-Hal—dir?” was all she spoke before she passed out once more. The figure that stood before her knew of the name but was lost as to why this woman knew of the Marchwarden of Lórien.

“Hîr vuin Legolas.” A female elf with long ginger hair and wearing a camouflage uniform came forward and asked him. “Who is she?”

“I do not know. But she knows of the Marchwarden of Lórien.” The female walked closer and saw just how injured she was.

“She’ll die if she is not treated.”

“The king will not permit a stranger in this kingdom.”

“But our King will need to know of who she is. And why she is here? And she cannot answer those questions if she dies.” The Elf known as Legolas as carefully as she could, picked Hela up bridal style and carried her to his horse and told the She-elf.

“Keep heading East, Tauriel. If she came from the mountain that collapsed, she may have seen something there, or may have been the one to cause it.” The she-elf known as Tauriel bowed her head and got on top of her horse and rode off, while Legolas rode back to his home of the Woodland realm to get this woman some sort of help.

If the King permitted it that is.