Work Text
Chapter 1
A small hooded figure was perched high in the trees, searching the forest floor for her quarry. Dim light filtered through gaps in the shivering leaves and branches creating dancing shadows that occasionally glossed over large lupine-like forms with dark bristling fur dull even in the light. After half an hour of stalking from the treetops, she had learned this scouting party contained seven wargs with three bearing orc riders. She had followed their larger pack in uneasy curiosity over the last two days. They had split into smaller units earlier that day and she was certain they would only reconvene for a while.
The question of what they were on the hunt for burned at her.
It was uncommon for her to see wargs and orcs in these lands. Stranger yet they were on the move during daylight. As piqued as her interest was, the ranger could not allow the vile things to stray closer to the East Road.
The riders, clad in crude metal armor spoke scarcely and only in their harsh language. Their eyes followed the sinuous movements of the riderless wargs as they ran through the trees. The beasts returned in vain to their riders before temporarily disappearing into the trees again.
The largest orc rode toward the front of the squad, back straight and head forward while the smallest lingered in the middle monitoring the wargs that came and went. The third picked up the rear and repeatedly looked over his shoulder, searching the trees as if aware of her presence. However, his eyes either never climbed high enough to spot her or the dark greens and browns of her attire allowed her to blend into the canopy. As he passed through a beam of light, the glint of a polished horn caught her attention.
He would have to be the first to die to prevent the rest from being notified. The size of this party was enough to give her pause for attack. But if she was careful she’d be capable of successfully eliminating the orcs one at a time. Starting with the hornblower would be ideal.
Swiftly, she drew both the bow from her back and a short arrow from the quiver. The leaves overhead rustled in excited whispers as she nocked the arrow and drew back until the bowstring was taut. She felt the resistance of the draw in her arm and cleared her mind. Her breathing ceased as her aim steadied a little ahead of the orc and she waited for the opportune moment.
The forest seemed to quiet itself in anticipation. One of the scouting wargs howled in the distance as she prepared to release the arrow. Her concentration temporarily broke as the rest of the party all turned their heads to the right. The lead orc spoke in his native tongue and they all took off with palpable excitement. She cursed under her breath while hastily readjusting her aim before releasing the arrow.
The arrow whizzed through the open air destined to hit its mark. Had the warg not jumped over a fallen log in its eager pursuit the rider’s death would have been swift. Instead, it skewered the orc’s neck, sticking out through both ends. He croaked out a soft, ragged gasp as his companions abandoned him, unaware of the attack. His armored hand clawed at the arrow’s shaft sticking out from his neck as black liquid trickled from the wound. The warg abandoned its rider without hesitation as he fell from its back, too excited for a fight.
Clicking her tongue in frustration, she took calculated leaps down the tree's branches to finish the job. While these woods were different than the Mirkwood forest, her mother’s teachings still provided enough knowledge to find the sturdiest branches. Soft leather boots barely made a sound as she landed and walked to the dying orc writhing on his back.
“What’re you hunting?” She inquired. The top half of her sunkissed face was shrouded in the shadow of her green cloak. Her bow remained strung as she placed it back over her shoulder. Crouching, beside the orc she stared at the widening pool of putrid blood that even the dry earth refused to drink.
“You won’t live long enough to find out,“ he gargled with a cruel chuckle as his malicious eyes located her. His flailing had ceased now that he had an audience but his erratic breaths gave his pain away. Her lips parted to question him again but her words were cut off as a chorus of equine squeals of terror echoed through the woods. Unintelligible yells and loud barks followed after.
The watery breaths between his drowning laughter churned the contents of her stomach. In a quick movement, she grabbed the arrow below the feather fletching. He had tried to get in a last word but she wrenched the arrow free and stopped whatever lie he had on his tongue. Its exit sealed his fate.
Without another thought, she abandoned the soured arrow beside him and dashed toward the commotion. Even if the cacophony of fighting had been silenced, the wargs’ war path created a clear route to their destination.
Arriving on the scene, she found two of the wargs already deceased, blood darkening the ground. The other five and two riders were locked in battle with at least a dozen dwarves, give or take a few. Wargs snapped and bit with foaming maws, attempting to sink long, yellowed fangs into soft flesh. A flurry of weapons swung wildly through the air with devastating force. Axes, hammers, and swords glinted brilliantly in patches of sunlight and bit hungrily into anything that crossed their path. Agonized yelps were ripped from the beasts when the weapons managed to make contact.
It was difficult to find where assistance was needed most in the chaos but soon received a starting point. A startled cry drew her attention to the edge of the party where a young dwarf had tripped backwards over a stray pack. The large orc descended on him quickly, long orcish scimitar in hand and a murderous glint in his eyes. She drew her bow as quickly as possible and fired an arrow. This time, it hit exactly where she intended - the orc’s temple.
The weapon fell from his hand with a soft thump on the ground before he fell sideways. The small dwarf looked to her with wide thankful eyes before he scrambled to his feet and picked up his dropped slingshot. Thanks would have to wait. Arrow after arrow was nocked, drawn, and released as she kept her distance, leaving the close-up fighting to the heavily armed men.
Three wargs were exterminated by the time the smaller orc took notice, still mounted on his own. When he did realize he was the last he did not hesitate to abandon the surviving warg to its demise and begin retreating. However, he’d only broken free of the group when two arrows struck him from behind, one from the woman and another from a young dark-haired dwarf. The warg the orc had been on continued its path toward safety until a dwarven axe came crashing down on its neck, severing its spinal cord, dropping it almost instantly.
With the enemies defeated, she got a better look at the group as they scrutinized one another for injuries. Fourteen in total with the majority being dwarves. They were big and small, old and young, some sporting long luxurious beards while others might as well be clean-shaven; a diverse group if she ever saw one. There was also an older man and what she first thought was a child. It was only when she noticed the subtle lines of age on his face she realized he was not a child but a hobbit.
She had just turned her observant gaze back to the numerous dwarves when the tall man clad in gray robes approached her. He was shadowed by the anxious but relieved halfling. The man offered a kind smile as he looked down at her and subtly dipped his head in an appreciative bow.
“I’d like to thank you for your assistance - “
“Faye,” she interrupted, “ And I owe your party all the thanks. It made dealing with the wargs and orcs exceptionally easier. So thank
you
,” she then bowed her hooded head. It was when she straightened she felt all eyes on her.
“Faye? As in Fayethrin,” inquired a short older dwarf with stark white hair. There was a cheerful familiarity to the voice and she turned to look at him. A large smile broke across her face, teeth glinting in the light as a giddiness filled her.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
“Do my eyes and ears deceive me? Is that you, Balin?”She tossed her hood back. Sunlight reflected off the waves of cascading auburn hair like a blazing wildfire as it fell to her lower back. Her bright eyes brimmed with the elation of seeing a familiar and friendly face.“I cannot even begin to express my excitement in seeing you again!” Without warning, she bent slightly and flung her arms around the dwarf’s neck, pulling him into a warm embrace. She held him to her until he began chuckling and returned the hug, giving her a few friendly pats on the back. The rest of the company watched the exchange while keeping their distance. A few busied themselves by working together to move the slain bodies from the middle of the road.“I admit I’m surprised to see you as well,” he said, withdrawing his arms.She followed his lead and let go of his neck. Before she completely straightened up, she cupped his face and planted a soft kiss on his forehead. A blush dusted Balin’s cheeks as his eyes widened with pleasant surprise.“You look great even with white hair,” she said sincerely, gesturing at his long forked beard. There had still been thick streaks of dark hair in it when they had parted ways.“Well, it has been,” he paused as if to calculate time, “nearly a decade since last we met. You haven’t changed in the slightest and it’s hard to forget someone with such unusual eyes.”From the corner of her eye, she could see the hobbit attempting to get a look. It wasn’t an uncommon reaction whenever someone drew attention to them. And she had no qualms with turning her head as inconspicuously as possible, to flaunt a right eye of green and a left of pale blue.“I’ve changed a bit. Earned a few new scars here and there,” she reached up and brushed back the hair on her shoulders to reveal her right ear was missing a noticeable piece of it. Balin narrowed his eyes slightly, scrutinizing the healed wound as she tilted her head for a better view. When he nodded, she dropped her hands to her sides. She was about to address the man and hobbit when two dwarves approached.“Rather short for an elf,” the tallest of them commented quietly to his solemn companion. Had it not been for the bitterness laced in the tone of his voice she would have taken it as a jest. Instead, she was reminded of the elf and dwarf rivalry that spanned centuries. With a slight shake of her head, she shifted her hair to cover the pointed tips of her ears.“And yet you still have to look up.” As quick as the retort had been, it was said playfully. He may have had his share of loathsome experiences with elves but she had none with dwarves. She would show no animosity. And he had been correct in his observation. She was small for a human let alone an elf.It seemed the dwarf did not find the humor in her voice or did not care for it. His tattooed fists clenched tightly at his sides and he was stopped before he had the chance to take a step forward. His friend’s hand stretched out across his chest to hold him back. She watched as the pair exchanged a silent conversation with a simple glance before the aggressive one relented. The other dropped his hand.“Gandalf, we need to move quickly before more arrive,” he addressed the man without acknowledging Faye.“They won’t be a problem,” Faye blurted out. All their heads snapped in her direction in unison. As intimidating as it was she didn’t let it keep her from going on. “The rest of the pack is farther North and heading East toward Bree. I’ve been tracking them the past couple of days and they’ve strayed farther and farther from each other every day. I noticed this one heading to the road and was going to try and prevent them from reaching it —““A lot of help you did with that,” the burly one interrupted.She locked eyes with the imposing dwarf as he crossed his arms over his broad chest. His bright blue eyes shone with a disdainful glint that left her quiet. Instead of speaking right away, she took in more of his appearance, unable to shake the feeling of familiarity. The top half of his head was bare except for enigmatic tattoos bridged from ear to ear. They were different from the ones on his hands and despite her intrigue, she found herself drawn back to his eyes.They had never met or crossed paths — this she knew for certain. It perplexed her as she wracked her mind for an answer, smile faltering. Her lips pursed together tightly and her brows bowed downward as she reached far into her memory. A thought started to dawn on her. She glanced at Balin and then back at the belligerent dwarf.“Dwalin…” Faye spoke his name to all of their surprise. Her smile returned as she nodded to herself. She pointed at him, wagging her finger at his chest. “You’re Balin’s younger brother. Right?” She looked to the stunned Balin for confirmation. When he gave a subtle nod she looked back at Dwalin.“I thought you were familiar but couldn’t recall where I had seen you. Then I realized I never had. You’re as intimidating as Balin’s tales made you out to be. It’s nice to finally put a face to the name.” A silence lingered over the group.“Nice to know someone pays attention to what I have to say,” Balin replied after recovering from his initial shock. He looked to his brother who openly rolled his eyes.Faye abandoned the conversation as she had no interest in hearing whatever remark Dwalin may have wanted to say. She was intent on discovering if the other dwarf was recognizable from Balin’s stories. His hair was dark and wavy with streams of silver coursing through it. He stood tall with a dignified air that cloaked him and left her in awe. She didn’t need to reflect long on her friend’s stories to realize who he was.Most of Balin’s stories centered around the plights of their kin. His brother often surfaced in the heat of battle and fended off foes like an impenetrable wall. But he always had a brother in arms fighting with the same ferocity. Dwalin’s best friend and a dwarf of great importance. A prince who became king after several tragedies.“Thorin,” she spoke his name in a reverence not typically used by those outside their kin. He stared at her with a gaze cold enough to freeze dragon fire. It should have deterred her from staring any longer but it ignited an admiring spark in her eyes. His fierce blue eyes promised a tale of danger and triumph that she craved to be a part of. Before anyone else could speak again a fourth dwarf arrived, the young dark-haired archer.“All the ponies have run off into the woods from the fight,” he frowned, looking to his king and then to Faye. He didn’t have much of a beard but had dark hair like Thorin’s and warm brown eyes. She felt it safe to guess they may be related but could not be certain.Thorin sighed heavily and turned toward the direction the ponies had bolted. He glanced at Dwalin in disbelief at their poor luck. Shaking his head, he took a step as if to return to his kin when once again, Faye spoke up.“I may be able to help,” she said bringing her thumb and index finger to her mouth. A series of sharp whistles left her, carried on the wind and through the trees. A moment later a small gray horse came trotting from the woods with its black tail raised. The mare cantered toward her master, nearly knocking her over when she skidded to a stop. Her black nose dropped to rest on Faye’s shoulder as she snorted and puffed hot air against her neck.Faye gave the horse long strokes down her neck as the beast raised her head and scrutinized the group closest to them. The equine’s ears flicked back when she looked at the dwarves but faced completely forward when she spied the human. It looked as though the pair were in a silent conversation as Gandalf smiled and nodded before reaching out and giving her a soft pet along her muzzle.“Neve,” Faye said and the mare turned to lock eyes with her. “Will you do me a favor? Some ponies have run off into the woods and need to be returned. Are you willing to guide them back to their riders?” She asked, still stroking the horse’s neck. Almost instantly the mare trotted off toward the woods behind the group, whinnying and nickering.“You think she can get them all?” The young dwarf asked, watching the animal’s departure.“If they haven’t run too far off. I’m assuming your ponies all stayed together for safety. She’ll either lead them back or herd them back.”That was her hope anyway. There was always the possibility that overwhelming fear and foreign land made them split. And worse yet, one or more could have tripped or fallen over something and seriously injured themselves. She refused to think about it further. Looking up, she was met with the man’s contemplative smile.“Well, while we wait, why don’t we have some proper introductions,” Gandalf looked at Thorin and saw him open his mouth to protest and quickly added, “As we will not fare well on our travels without the ponies and the supplies on them. I also believe it only fair considering she did come to our aid.” This silenced the king but did not keep him from shooting a vexed expression at the man.The road had been cleared of bodies during the exchange and the remaining members of the company walked to join their king. All that was left of the fight were dark pools of orc blood the earth reluctantly soaked up.“No need to introduce myself,” Balin started, smiling warmly at Faye who eagerly returned it. “You correctly guessed my brother, Dwalin, and our leader, Thorin Oakenshield.” She looked at them to see if they had anything else to add. Both remained silent, disinterested in engaging more than what was necessary.Faye wondered if they would have been warmer had they not seen her ears. Would learning she was only half-elf help in gaining their trust? Or would she remain a villain in their story for something she could not control? At least, the others did not appear to be opposed to showing their kindness.“Kili at your service,” the young dark-haired dwarf beamed and bowed his head. He gazed at her with a devious gleam in his eyes. It was as if she was peering into a looking glass and she knew they’d only ever find trouble and mischief.“Fili,” a blonde dwarf smiled as he wrapped his arm around Kili’s shoulders. Despite their different colored hair, they shared several similar facial features. And he had the same mischievousness in his eyes. She’d risk guessing they were brothers.It became abundantly clear that the group consisted of pairs and trios of family members. The first pair were older. Gloin was a hardened but polite dwarf with a luxurious auburn beard. His brother, Oin, bowed alongside him, clamping an ear trumpet close to his graying head. Dori with his well-groomed appearance bowed humbly. His brother Nori’s unique hairstyle left her baffled at the amount of time it must take to achieve it. Ori appeared meek but kind and was the one she had helped with the warg.The last three, likely overlooked by many, impressed and captivated her most. Bombur with his braided ginger hair so long it hung down his stomach. Bifur looked as if he’d stepped out of an old legend or tale with an orc axe stuck in his head. But it was Bofur with the most enchanting and genuine smile she’d ever seen that held her attention the longest.
Faye quietly admired how unique each dwarf’s appearance was. She then looked to Gandalf for a proper introduction from him.“You may have heard of me. I am Gandalf,” he bowed his head. Thorin had called him by name earlier but it didn’t ring a bell at first. This time it did.“As in the traveling wizard?” A silly question now that saw his walking stick was not just that but a staff. The large pointed hat on his head should have been another giveaway. They were minor oversights on her part and would have earned a scolding from her mother for her carelessness.“The very one,” he sounded pleased and relieved that someone recognized the name. “It’s nice to know I haven’t been completely forgotten around here.”He went to speak further but was interrupted by a small throat being cleared just behind him. Sidestepping, he uttered an apology to his much smaller companion. The hobbit in turn dismissed the oversight with a wave of his hand.“Hello. I’m Bilbo Baggins. At your, uh, service,” the hobbit gave a curt nod of his head, brown curls swaying slightly as a gentle breeze washed over them. “And you said your name was Fayethrin, correct?” He asked, recalling the name Balin used.“That…is my full name, yes,” despite her best efforts her smile diminished. “However, I prefer to be called Faye. And I am at the service of all of you.” She offered them a new and inviting grin as she took a step back and bowed deeply. Several of her long red locks cascaded over her shoulders. As she straightened, a high-pitched whiny came behind her, further up the shady road. They all looked to see her gray mare walking from around large trees, followed by all of their ponies“Quite fortuitous you were already following that orc pack,” Gandalf mused. “We would have wasted much more time trying to locate all of them.” His eyes cut to Thorin who began walking with the others up the road to assess any losses. Gandalf gestured for both Faye and Bilbo to join the others.Faye eagerly started taking in the various packs and provisions mounted on their equines. Several baskets hung from saddles filled to the brim with a kaleidoscope of colorful fruits and vegetables. Several blankets, sleeping rolls, and pillows were piled on the hindquarters of the ponies.They were the usual necessities for a long trip but she was curious about the plethora of daggers, swords, axes, and mattocks that poked haphazardly from some of their packs. She couldn’t imagine them needing so many weapons unless they were planning for a fight or battle. The thought of a new adventure sent a thrill through her and she chose to try and pry.“So what’s your destination?” She asked, looking up at Gandalf who hesitated to reply.“And what business is that of yours?” Dwalin turned to face her, lips pulled back in a scowl as he narrowed his eyes. Still vexed by her earlier comment, she assumed. A few of the others exchanged nervous glances but said nothing. They pretended to tend to their animals and allow someone else to step in. A simple glance revealed they were just opening and closing packs or adjusting the straps of their pony’s saddle. It was idle work to appear as though they were doing something while secretly waiting to see how events unfolded.
“None,” Faye admitted and pursed her lips for a moment. She wasn’t sure why but looking into his distrustful gaze made her crack a smile. As soon as the corners of her lips lifted she saw his eyes widen in disbelief while his brows remained furrowed. His frown deepened and his gaze became dark and dangerous. A final warning to her not to push her luck.“Please forgive him,” Balin stepped in as no one else dared to get stuck in Dwalin’s crossfire. The air crackled like the air before a strike of lightning. The ponies felt a growing tension and started to fidget. Balin placed his hand on Faye’s back and guided her to stand on the other side of the group. Bofur, Kili, and Fili presented friendly faces as they finished assuring they hadn’t lost any of their belongings.“We’ve been traveling all day and I fear my brother is just tired and probably a wee bit hungry. You know how we get.” The older dwarf offered her an apologetic smile. “We’re traveling to see our kin in the Iron Hills. Durin’s Day is coming up and several of us decided to celebrate it with them so we’re a bit rushed on time.”With their history, Faye had no reason to distrust Balin’s words. As far as she was concerned that was all she needed to know. However, it didn’t change her mind about wanting to tag along. But she still needed to find the right time to ask to join their merry band. Irritating their king’s second hand definitely wouldn’t earn her any favors and she was already starting at a low point. She raised her left hand to graze the tip of her ear.“By my beard!” Gloin cried out, drawing their attention as he inspected a large wooden cask on one of the ponies. The rest of the party turned in his direction to watch as he unstrapped the barrel and removed it. An arrow stuck out from the side.Bofur turned and looked at Faye with an accusatory look. Her eyes widened in shock and she shook her head vehemently. Not wanting to draw any unnecessary attention to herself she kept her lips sealed and pointed at Kili. He had glanced over at Faye at the same time as Bofur and observed her attempt to throw blame on him. Bofur turned and gave Kili the same look he’d given her. This time he raised his eyebrows in silence for a confession. Kili gaped at both in dismay and furrowed his brows. He pointed back at Faye mouthing ‘it was obviously her arrow’.This started a silent war between the two archers with Bofur bouncing back and forth, enjoying the show. Their accusatory charade became more aggressive and playful as they started mocking each other taking horrible aim. Their erratic gestures drew the attention of Fili, Bilbo, and Gandalf who all appeared to enjoy their game. However, it ended when Gloin spun the half-full barrel around to reveal the true cause of the leak was a large gash that had splintered the wood.“Which one of you can’t tell a barrel from a warg?” Gloin added with a huff.Kili and Faye stopped their mock fighting to look at the cask and then looked at each other. Faye averted her gaze and bit the inside of her lips to keep from bursting into a fit of laughter. She pretended to wipe the sweat from her forehead, eliciting a snort from Kili. He cleared his throat and smiled reservedly, as if for himself alone. Looking at his brother’s bemused expression only made him grin wider.“I see no use in letting it just sit here on the side of the road,” Gandalf said, a hint of laughter in his voice. He then looked over at Thorin. “Why not rest for a bit? We’re overdue for one after all.” All eyes turned to their leader who looked around at all of them before looking at Faye.“Are you certain there are no more orcs in the area?”“Yes. I’m risking my life as much as yours in believing that,” she replied, thankful she hadn’t started giggling. This seemed to satisfy him and he nodded.“Everyone, get a mug and whatever you wish to eat that doesn’t require a fire.” He said, going to his pony to grab his supplies.As disappointing as it was for them to lose an entire barrel of beer they didn’t remain sad for long. Salted pork, bread, and the occasional vegetable lined their stomachs before being drowned in the golden spirit. Laughter permeated the air and was soon followed by the dwarves singing happily up until the barrel was empty. Rested and in good spirits the company began to rise to their feet and stretch, preparing for their next span of riding.Faye rose from the ground as well, dusting the dirt from her cloak. Watching them begin to pack and mount up brought a heaviness to her heart. It had been too long since she had been in a large group and surrounded by good-natured individuals. Solitude had its perks but she couldn’t deny her desire for companionship. She watched as they each climbed into their saddles and turned their ponies to head East. Her chest tightened as she walked to Neve and hopped into her saddle.“It was very nice to meet you, Faye,” Bilbo said, awkwardly riding up next to her on his pony, followed by Gandalf on his horse. She watched how the hobbit and animal became increasingly anxious with each other’s movements. It was odd to imagine him trying to make an arduous journey to the Iron Hills without riding experience. How odd indeed. “It’s a shame we can’t spare more time here. I would have liked to have heard how you and Balin met and became friends.”“A shame indeed. A long rest is always good to become better acquainted with new friends,” Gandalf added, peering down at Faye. Looking into his eyes she wondered if she’d seen a tinge of sadness. A trick of the light most likely as his smile seemed too jovial.The image of an old inn she had been at a few days prior came to mind suddenly. It was only a day and a half ride away. Had she not known any better, she would have accused Gandalf of purposely wording what he said to trigger the memory.“You know,” Faye raised her voice high enough to be heard by the rest of them, “there’s an inn not too far up this road. There are few if any after that if you plan to continue down the East Road. The inn owner also owes me a few favors so I think I could convince him to allow a free stay or at least a heavily discounted one.”“That wouldn’t be a bad idea,” Balin said from his pony, catching on quickly. He turned to look at Thorin. “We shouldn’t pass up a warm bed to sleep in when we can. We’ll need comforting memories to keep us warm once we reach the Misty Mountains.” The dwarves began murmuring amongst themselves. Everyone agreed that one last soft bed and a good meal would be appreciated.“Fine, but we part ways after that. We don’t need any more mouths to feed,” Thorin said, staring at Faye and then Gandalf. “Move out.” Faye couldn’t stop herself from grinning from ear to ear as Balin gave her a nod and turned to face forward. Finding a way to integrate herself into their journey seemed promising. But who knew what awaited ahead?
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Birds twittered overhead excitedly about the latest news and rumors. They’d pause frequently in their midday gossip to burst into beautiful songs of old. Melodies that mimicked the tunes of a tavern bard’s epic of heroism. Their euphonies crescendoed in triumphant bellows that resonated through the canopy.When Faye closed her eyes and listened closely, she could swear she heard familiar words in their language and was transported to faraway lands. She could see the mountains that roused during fierce storms change their position and dig their roots deep before slumbering again. She saw the devastatingly beautiful castles abandoned after withstanding bloody battles; moss and vines scaled their sides to mask old wounds and brought beauty to the destruction.Their songs became fewer as the caravan rode closer. The birds seemed to eavesdrop on the various stories the dwarves swapped. Faye opened her eyes and watched as a pair of sparrows flitted through low-hanging branches, whistling to one another. They landed on a branch a little ahead of the group and twitched their heads from side to side, watching the riders. The largest of the sparrows puffed out its chest in preparation for a song. It may have been the best it offered but she’d never know.A high-pitched squeal from Faye’s right drew her focus away from the sparrows. All the other birds fell silent as well. A few resumed their chirping once the convoy passed but the soft flutter of wings signaled the sparrows’ departure.Faye turned her head to see the small mare Bilbo rode throw her head back in agitation. Her ears flicked back as she gnawed on the bit vehemently. Bilbo stiffened and leaned back in his saddle, attempting to keep from getting smacked by her head.“Relax a bit,” Faye reached out and placed her hand on Bilbo’s shoulder. The sudden touch startled him into a small jump. He looked at her with pleading miserable eyes.“How am I supposed to relax when she keeps tossing her head around?” He asked when she did it again.“She’s feeding off your emotions and you’re both making each other nervous,” Faye offered him a sympathetic smile. His experience, or lack thereof, was becoming more evident. Since no one else had helped him she took it upon herself to do it. She first showed him how to handle the reins properly. When Myrtle, his pony, relaxed her chewing she guided him on how to posture himself in the saddle. Before long, Bilbo looked more comfortable and confident. And Myrtle appeared pleased as well, head slightly lowered.“Much better,” she complimented. “I suggest giving her a treat during our next rest—at least if you want to make friends with her.”“I may. I believe she may grow on me. Now that I know she’s not going to throw me off,” he smiled. “Thank you.”“No need for thanks. You’ve got a long journey and you should be able to enjoy the ride.”Faye wasn’t surprised to notice Gandalf had abandoned them at some point – perhaps when the birds had her enraptured with their songs – to take the lead of the party. Thorin followed behind him, not saying a word. Dwalin, Balin, and Gloin separated her from the leaders and their conversations had become sparse. It made her next move risky.“Bilbo, may I ask you something?” She kept her eyes forward, staring at Thorin and Gandalf. There was a chance they were both listening. An exigent itch for answers had formed in her mind and she would deny it no longer. She could believe the dwarves were traveling to see their family. It was also understandable to have Gandalf, a wizard, along. But why had a hobbit with no riding experience been allowed to join? What secret talents did Bilbo bring?“Of course!” Bilbo replied.“I hope you’ll forgive my bluntness when I ask this,” she looked at him cautiously. “But was there a particular reason you chose to take this journey? I always heard hobbits preferred the comforts of home. And I can’t say I’ve met many on my travels.”His smile diminished to a thin line.“His business with us is none of your concern,” Thorin answered for Bilbo. Both Bilbo and Faye looked into the dwarf’s suspicious eyes. She dropped her gaze. As predicted, he had been listening.As embarrassing as it was to be called out, she believed it was the better alternative. Whispering to Bilbo and appearing secretive with the mounting suspicion would not earn her any favors. At least this way her curiosity and intentions were transparent.Remnants of tension hung in the air. The dwarves that did resume their conversations started in hushed voices before gradually raising to normal volume. The rest of the ride went by quickly with Faye keeping relatively quiet.After a while, Thorin announced, “We’ll make camp here.”The sun was beginning to descend, casting a fiery veil over the horizon. Faye halted Neve and dismounted with the rest of the group. On top of a cliff, they had a good vantage to defend themselves. However, she worried about the fire Oin was already beginning to kindle. From below, the glow would carry far like a beacon. And she couldn’t be sure one of the orc scouting parties hadn’t made it this far.“You alright?” Bilbo asked, startling her. She looked at him with wide eyes before quickly softening her expression.“Yes. Sorry. I was just taking in the view,” she lied. Removing her pack and sleeping roll from the saddle she felt a pang of guilt in her heart. Lying wasn’t how she wanted to start any friendships but she also didn’t want to cause unnecessary concerns.“It is rather nice, isn’t it?” He said, shouldering the strap of his pack. They watched the sun’s fall from grace for a moment longer. When indigo bled into the waning oranges and pinks of the sky they both returned to unsaddling their ponies.Gloin stood beside the fire his brother had started, warming his hands. Bombur, Bifur, and Bofur were preparing the night’s meal—some kind of stew that included carrots, potatoes, and possibly salted pork. She wanted to assist, having cooked for her old group, but knew three was more than efficient.Instead, Faye picked out a spot to sleep at. Looking at the belongings near her she assumed they belonged to Bofur, Bifur, and Bombur. If she remembered correctly, Bifur wielded a boar spear and Bofur a mattock. Both were neatly placed over the bags.She looked around the camp, noting how the dwarves worked almost seamlessly with one another. Everyone was hard at work feeding the fire, gathering kindling, preparing dinner, or sharing jokes she didn’t comprehend. Their laughter intensified as they recalled earlier memories.The way they smiled and elbowed one another between chuckles had her reminiscing the last time she’d been with her family. When she closed her eyes she could remember it like it happened yesterday. All five of them were huddled around a small fire surrounded by a sea of trees, and mugs full of beer. She balanced haphazardly on one of the logs they used as seats recounting another day of thwarting a group of highwaymen’s plans. In exaggerated detail, of course. The others often interject their feats or jokingly downplay one of the other’s accomplishments. Their laughs and high spirits permeated the air like a thick fog.Faye reveled in how her heart soared with every new burst of laughter from them. But the memory dissipated when she remembered one of them abruptly standing. When she opened her eyes she was in the present. Alone and standing at the edge of the fire’s heat and light. The smile that had formed melted away as did the warmth in her chest. She wanted to laugh and joke with the dwarves, feel the shared joy warm her to her bones. But she couldn’t think of anything to contribute that would feel natural. Striking up conversations with strangers in bars and on the road had been easy. But this felt like she was trying to walk across an unraveling line of rope.Faye peeled her eyes from the merriment by the fire and noticed Nori was working on unsaddling the ponies. A flicker of hope sparked in her chest and she walked toward him.“Care for some help?” She asked.“Won’t say no to that. The sooner I get to the fire the better,” he gestured to the chestnut pony next to the one he was stripping. The speed and accuracy of his hands as they untied knots in ropes meant to hold items to the saddles captivated her. She knew thieves with less grace and precision than him.“Quite the deft hands for a dwarf,” she said, unbuckling the billet strap of her pony’s saddle. Nori started to lift the saddle on his but lowered it back down. He looked at her and raised one of his eyebrows. It was hard to tell in the moonlight but she believed there may have been a smirk on his face.“What are you trying to say?”“That you have deft hands,” she grinned and removed her pony’s saddle. “Reminds me of when I used to steal the keys off guards.“And did you get caught?”“Often. Well, until I learn how to misdirect them successfully. What about you? How’d you get so handy?”Before long they were swapping stories of close calls, embellishing their escapes, and the rewards they got away with. It made their task feel quicker. By the time they finished feeding them, Bofur announced dinner was ready.Bowls were filled and passed around as they settled for more jokes and stories. Had a bowl not been forced into her hands by Kili she would have eaten whatever scraps she had left in her bag. Instead, she got a hot meal and was invited to the fire where several dwarves and Bilbo ate. Her heart raced in elation.Several spots were open but she couldn’t resist the pull to pick the seat next to Dwalin. He had just lifted a spoonful of stew to his mouth when she sat beside him. Lowering the spoon back into the bowl, he slowly turned and looked at her; one of his eyebrows raised in question.“You looked like you were enjoying yourself too much,” she grinned and started eating her meal.“Aye. And I don’t recall you asking if you can sit near me,” he retorted. Dwalin shifted to rest his left arm on his thigh. He stared at her and seemed to wait for her to vacate and find better company. She would not be easily scared off.“It must be your irresistibly warm personality that draws me in,” neither broke eye contact. Faye leaned on her right hand so their faces were mere inches away. “Are you so quick to dislike me because of what I am? Does it help knowing I’m only half-elf?”“No. And it’s obvious you’re not full-blooded,” he broke contact to look her up and down. “You’re barely taller than any of us. Anyone who didn’t realize that is an idiot.”“Then are you worried I’ll bite? I promise I won’t,” a devious smirk played at her lips, “unless that’s what you like.”It appeared to catch him off guard, his eyes widening for a split second. He then furrowed his eyebrows. Sighing loudly, Dwalin returned to eating his meal without another word to herLooking across the fire, she caught Balin’s eye and saw him smirk before shaking his head. She guessed it was her comment or his brother’s reaction.“You sure you two are brothers?” Faye asked. “I don’t remember you being so quick to dismiss.”“How did you two become friends?” Bilbo asked before Balin could respond. They shared a glance and Balin lifted his hand to give her the pleasure.“Unfortunately, it’s not as exciting as helping fight orcs and wargs. Long story short, we met in a busy inn, shared a few drinks, and then went to our rooms to sleep. He left before me that next morning but we met on the road again.”“She was following me,” Balin interjected with a chuckle.“I was not! I told you that night I was heading to Bree!” Faye exclaimed as Balin chuckled again. He must have said it to get a rise out of her. Faye pursed her lips but continued. “We started talking again and I finally convinced him it was better to travel with a new friend. It was little over a month before we reached Bree and went our separate ways.”“You never did tell me why you were so pressed to reach Bree,” Balin said. Faye looked at him and then frowned at the fire. Bitter memories began clawing at the back of her mind. She exhaled slowly and gripped her half-empty bowl with both hands.“I used to be a part of a group of rangers. Not the Rangers of the North or South. We were our own little group. I was going there to meet with one of them.” Her eyes remained on the fire, watching the hungry tongues of flames lap at the cool night air.“And why aren’t you traveling with them now?” Dwalin asked. His tone wasn’t contemptuous but it wasn’t kind either. She didn’t know how to describe it.“They’re dead,” Faye replied. Her gaze remained on the ravenous fire. A burning log popped and a small branch fell sending small embers into the sky. Realizing no one was willing to break the silence, she forced herself to smile.“No need for the long faces. We’ve all lost people and it’s been a decade. I’ve had my time to mourn,” she lied. She still mourned them and the loss of her family. The nights she spent crying and howling like an animal trapped in a snare were fewer but the hole in her heart could not be filled, not with beer, sex, or drugs — and especially not gold. She had to hope a new family would bring her peace again.The mood remained somber. It was maddening to the point she finally stood up and bid those still at the fire a good evening. She left the warmth of the fire wondering if there had been a better way to answer Dwalin’s question. Not that she could think of one at the moment. Whenever she felt she took a step forward she was instantly knocked back down in the dirt.Faye cleaned the borrowed bowl and returned it to Kili. She then walked to her bedroll and removed her cloak, belt, sash, and a variety of knives she kept hidden on her. Using her bag as a pillow, she stared up at the open sky. Sleep did not come easy and she instead listened to the chirping crickets and the softening conversations of the dwarves.Slowly, they began to turn in until most of them were asleep, or at least attempting to. She lowered her eyelids to slits when she heard Bofur and Bifur shuffling next to her. Bombur had been surprisingly quiet up until he started snoring and she watched as a flurry of moths fluttered around his open mouth. They were sucked in with each inhale and sent out on the exhale.“Can’t sleep?” She heard Bofur inquire softly. Opening her eyes, she turned her head to look at him. He still wore his hat but his hands were tucked underneath his head. A thin blanket covered him.“No.”“Scared we’ll bite?” He asked, grinning. He had been one of the ones sitting at the fire when she asked Dwalin.“Definitely not,” Faye rolled onto her side and propped her head on her hand, “You dwarves aren’t exactly quiet even when you’re trying. No offense, but I think I’d hear one of you coming.”“Oh, loud are we?” He asked a hint of laughter in his words.“Aye, but your strengths lie elsewhere,” she continued chatting with Bofur until her eyelids finally grew heavy with exhaustion. Talking with him came easy and something was soothing about the air around him. She couldn’t remember the last bit of their conversation as she drifted off.That night she dreamed of her old family laughing around a crackling fire. Like her memory, she was recalling and reenacting the highwaymen’s retreat after their ambush. Young Ned and motherly Gwin chimed in Faye’s retelling often, poking fun at each other’s blunders. Even their fearless leader, Varyk, cut in to remind everyone of their victories. Landen listened quietly with only a hint of a smile on his face. Even in the dream, she failed to see the signs of their impending demise.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Faye jolted awake, beads of sweat glistening like the night’s diminishing stars on her face and neck. Her chest heaved as she attempted to catch her breath. She looked up at the dark purple and blue clouds that bruised the early morning sky. Morning birds were just beginning to warm up with groggy chirps as the sun’s first rays of light broke the horizon.She remained still until the thunderous sound of rushing blood in her ears dwindled to a soft murmur. When she recovered from her dream she ran a hand through her hair and sighed.“How long has it been?” she asked herself. It was difficult for her to remember the last time she’d slept deeply enough to recall a dream. Or rather, dream of old memories. To her disappointment, they were rarely her happier ones. It always felt like she was being forced to relive the memories and failures she wanted to remain buried or forgotten.As she looked around the camp she noticed the fire was still going strong and all but Bofur, Bifur, and Gandalf looked asleep. They stood across the camp, near the fire, whispering. She would have liked to join them but knew she needed to get a headstart. Faye quietly pulled her clothes back on, thankful for the cloak’s added warmth in the cool morning air.“Hey!” Came a hushed call. Faye looked up as she rolled up her bed roll.Bofur now stood with his back to the fire. Even with the shadows of the waning night, she could see he looked confused and maybe even a little concerned.A seed of excitement sprouted in her heart, thinking he wanted her to stay. Their time together had been short, but his constant smiles and their late-night talk made her fond of him already. Even now, as he called to her, she wanted to believe they would have more time to become friends.Pulling one of her bag’s straps over her left shoulder, she tucked the roll under her other arm and carefully tiptoed around the snoring dwarves.“Where are you going?” Bofur asked in the same quiet voice as she approached the fire. Her heart fluttered at the urgency of his question.“I’m just getting a headstart. I will meet you all at the inn,” she reached out and touched his arm. It was warm from the fire and she had to resist the urge to abandon her plans to curl up at the fire’s edge and bask in its embrace.“There’s going to be sixteen guests so I’ll help the innkeeper prepare a hot meal and chase off anyone currently staying there so we can have the rooms.”“Oh!” Bofur said with a sheepish smile. “Thought Bombur’s snoring might’ve scared you off.”“No, no. I’m afraid it’ll take more than that to frighten me off. But, since you’re awake. Do you have any special requests?” She asked.“If you’re talking about food we’re not a picky lot but I’d love some mince pies and cheese if they have the supplies. I also wouldn’t mind a greeting like you gave Balin,” his smile was as endearing as the first time she saw it. Kind and charming; no wonder she was already partial to him. She contemplated kissing him but settled for a laugh instead. Faye then looked at Gandalf as he exhaled a remarkably perfect smoke ring.“Some red wine will suit me just fine,” the wizard replied.Faye nodded then made eye contact with Bifur. Her eyes rounded when he spoke in an unfamiliar language. She had started believing he was mute due to his injury.He formed a circle with his hands as he rambled on in a deep and almost guttural tone. If she had to guess it must have been Khuzdul or some variant. One hand remained in a half circle as he used the other to point at the center, looking up only after speaking. Locking eyes, a silence fell over the group and may have continued had Bofur not broken it. “He likes those apple tarts especially when the slices spiral in the center,” Bofur clarified. Simple enough. A tinge of guilt seeped into her chest at the thought of not gathering a special request for everyone. But it’d waste too much time waking each of them up and risking a morning wrath. So, she bid Bofur, Bifur, and Gandalf a good morning and took her leave.~~~Dark clouds snuffed out the warm light of day as they crawled down from the mountains. The day stretched on without incident as Neve trotted down the East Road. It gave Faye plenty of time to reflect on Thorin’s company and their journey.Balin had lied. She knew this now that she was alone with her thoughts. Gandalf and Thorin had given everything away.She had met dwarves visiting family before, but they had never required the assistance of a wizard. He was too powerful to be a simple escort when dark rumors crept up from every corner of the world. His time was invaluable, and she had to imagine his business revolved around something vital to history.As for Thorin, she knew from Balin’s stories Smaug had usurped his family. What would change the course of history more than the rightful king reclaiming Erebor? Perhaps Balin didn’t intend to deceive her. Maybe they were meeting their kin at the mountain to finally slay the dragon and repossess their home. If that were the case then he had simply left out some details. It was a more comforting thought for her.She was still a fool for not realizing it sooner. Her questions surrounding the secrecy of Bilbo’s role in the company persisted. What was his role? She furrowed her brows in thought, ignoring the cool drops of water that occasionally kissed her exposed shoulders. Hobbits were small and sneaky but how did that help? Until she talked with him she might never know.She continued musing over her thoughts until she arrived at a fork in the road. The main path kept straight but a narrower dirt trail went to the left. Between them was a post with a hand-painted sign on it. Stonewall Inn and an image of a mug of beer tipping over were painted on both sides. At the bottom was an arrow pointing up the side road. Neve turned down the side path unprompted as if reading her rider’s mind. Her trot slowed to a casual walk.A wall of stones started to line either side of the path, leading up to a two-story building. Vines crept up the exposed wood and stones to the maroon-colored roof. Their spindly fingers wrapped around the outside of windows and pinned the shutters to the walls. Behind the tavern was a large stable that appeared strangely empty.Faye approached the stable and peered inside. Several empty stalls lined the walls but the closest one on the left contained a large black and white draft horse. Leaning over the stall door, he blew air loudly at them. She recognized him as the innkeeper’s gelding, Bullseye. Looking beyond the stable she could see the small garden was completely harvested and only a few chickens pecked at the remnants.“Haven’t had many patrons recently,” said a voice behind her. She knew it belonged to the innkeeper but it sounded off. Turning her head, she couldn’t prevent herself from gaping.His once bright blue eyes, full of merriment, had dulled to a pale almost gray hue. The wild tangle of dark hair sprouting from his head had veins of silver branching through it. They were either new or she had failed to notice them on her last visit. She brought her hand to her chest as an ache filled her heart seeing how drastically his features had changed. “Alwyn, you look awful,” she grimaced. He laughed and nodded slowly. His smile was fleeting. “What happened? It’s only been a few weeks”“Orcs and trolls.”“Trolls? Down here?” She climbed down and led Neve into the stall next to Bullseye. Once the small horse settled Faye stripped her of her bags and saddle. Orcs were bad for business but adding trolls made this district incredibly dangerous for travelers.“Aye. Could not tell you how many there are; enough to scare off anyone in the area they have yet to eat. I have an old friend and his wife up the way I have not heard from in some time. I fear the worst,” he sighed. “If my stocks had not recently been replenished I would have left by now.”“Well,” she grinned and slung one of her bags over her shoulder, “I am happy to inform you I can help you leave as early as tomorrow. I have advised a group of fifteen travelers to stay here tonight. I guarantee they can clean out whatever you have but I did mention I’d try and get you to give them a discount.”“I will let them stay for free and take whatever is left in the morning if it means I can leave this dreaded place. The longer I remain, the more likely I become troll food or orc target practice,” Alwyn sounded almost relieved at the news.Heavy clouds loomed overhead. There was a distant boom of thunder that encouraged the pair to scamper inside. As badly as she wanted to learn more of the events in the district she found him more reserved than usual. She decided to spare him and spoke little as they prepared the six available rooms for new guests before heading to the kitchens to prepare a feast fit for royalty. Or a troop of tired dwarves.~~~The sun was beginning to set when the fat clouds started to disperse; their threats of rain had been frivolous bluffs. Alwyn lit lanterns at the entry of the inn and stable in case the dwarves arrived after dark as Faye finished cooking. A warm, inviting glow illuminated the translucent front windows. The main room was spacious with a long table assembled from three smaller tables in the center. Benches and chairs circled it with plenty of room to prevent elbows from knocking together.Any remaining chairs and tables were shoved up against the exposed stone wall. On the left was a large fireplace with a blazing fire that provided most of the light. Several lanterns hung from the ceiling and led to the bar at the back of the building. A set of stairs climbed up the right side and to the second floor where the six rooms were located.Faye was seated on a stool at the bar, talking to Alwyn when the front door swung open. She hopped to her feet, grinning ear to ear at the dwarves' arrival. Fili and Kili were the first to enter. Both were dripping wet from head to toe as if they’d been dunked into a bucket shortly before arriving. Their typically optimistic demeanor dampened as they trudged inside, tracking mud across the floor. Peering through the open door, she could see those heading to the stables were as dry as she had left them that morning.“Something spooked one of the ponies,” Kili spoke before Faye even had a chance to question them. “It ran into the river and we nearly drowned trying to get it out.”“We managed to save it but lost all our supplies,” Fili added. His eyes drifted to the crackling fire with a longing expression.“Sounds like you had an eventful day,” Faye followed Fili’s gaze to the fire. “Give me your things to hang and dry off by the fire. The innkeeper, Alwyn, and I have quite the treat in store for you.” She smiled and held out her hands for their cloaks and whatever else they were willing to part with.They obliged and in a matter of seconds, she was regretting her kindness. They stripped down to their pants and undershirts, tossing the rest of their waterlogged clothes over her arms. To her silent dismay, they added their surplus of weapons as well before sitting on the raised hearth.Her arms started to shake from the weight as she turned on her heels and shuffled toward the bar. Alwyn, seeing her struggling to keep her arms up, took the items and began wringing out any remaining water in a large basin behind the bar. Their weapons were laid on the counter as if on display. By now the rest of the dwarves were filtering in, exasperated moods melting into relief.“Bofur!” Faye beamed as he entered with a large smile. He held out his arms and welcomed her hug and the kiss she planted on his cheek.“Why did he get that greeting!? We nearly died!” Kili called from the fireplace. Faye bit back a chuckle as she looked at the brothers.“Perks of taking the last shift, lads,” Bofur moved out of the way so the rest of the company could enter.“Unbelievable. Watch a bunch of dwarves snore all night and you get hailed like a hero and kissed. Save some poor miserable pony from dying and you might as well be chopped liver,” Fili shook his head, failing to suppress a humorous smile.“What a cruel person I am. How could I not reward such heroism?” Faye walked over to them, resting her hands on her hips. She leaned down until she was at eye level. Firelight danced in her half-hooded eyes as a devious smirk snaked across her face. “But how am I to know you did not merely hop into the river to cool off?”Before either of them could respond, Thorin and Dwalin entered the building and peered at her. She relaxed, letting her hands hang at her sides. The rest of the company piled in, filling the once spacious room. “Looks like everyone made it safely. Welcome to the Stonewall Inn,” she bowed deeply, gesturing wide with her arms as Alwyn joined her.“I have already informed Faye your stay and meal are free of charge,” he smiled wearily. “This land has become too dangerous for my liking and I haven’t had a patron in over a week. Your arrival is a blessing to me.”“The rooms are upstairs! Fight over them if you like. The food should be done any moment now,” Faye looked toward the kitchen.“Should be ready now, I suspect. I will help you bring it all out but then I fear I must return to packing. I plan to leave tomorrow morning now that we’ve cooked most of it or set it aside for the journey,” Alwyn gestured for her to lead the way to the kitchen.Faye departed with him as Thorin’s company wandered up the stairs. When they returned downstairs a heavy aroma of savory and buttery scents permeated the air. The table was covered in mountains of meat, vast valleys of roasted vegetables and fresh fruits, towers of baked goods, and two large beer barrels stood as sentinels at either end of the table.Every seat was almost immediately claimed. A barrage of hands pillaged the dishes as mugs were filled. Smiles made their way onto nearly every face and praise was offered to Faye and Awlyn.Faye managed to squeeze between Bofur and Nori and ensure Bofur got a few of the small mince pies he’d requested. Despite nearly everyone’s mouths being full of food or drink there wasn’t a moment of silence. Bits of food flew from their mouths whenever someone laughed too hard at someone’s joke or jab. Most of the food was devoured after their second helping and what remained became ammo. Bofur fired the first shot, a fingerling potato, directly into his brother’s mouth. Glorified cheers resonated from everyone at the table. Devolving into childlike antics they all began tossing, flicking, and throwing leftovers at one another.The food fight took a turn when Faye used her spoon to catapult a blueberry into Fili’s mouth mid-laugh. His eyes went as wide as their dinner plates. She wanted to feel bad for startling him, she really did. But his dumbfounded expression coupled with Nori and Bofur bumping her with their elbows made it impossible. She covered her mouth to suppress the giggles that threatened to reveal her as the culprit.“What’s wrong?” Kili whispered as he stared at his brother in concern. The trio watched as the blond dwarf finally overcame his shock and spat the blueberry out.“It just flew into my mouth!” Fili blinked before looking at Kili in disbelief. His head snapped to her and her accomplices when they burst into laughter.With the spoon still clutched in her hand, it was clear she was the perpetrator but she didn’t care. Nori and Bofur’s snickering only encouraged her. That, and his flabbergasted expression would forever be imprinted in her mind.“You did that?” Fili asked.“Had to prove to your brother I was the better marksman,” she replied between gasps of air and laughter.“Then why didn’t you hit him!?” Fili frowned at Kili. “And are you just going to let her humiliate both of us?”“No! That was just a lucky shot,” Kili snatched up his untouched spoon and launched an apple slice at her. She shut her eyes and prepared for it to land. There was a small breeze to the right of her face but nothing else hit her. Cracking open an eye, she saw Nori had knocked the projectile away.“Not so fast lads. Didn’t think she was alone, did ya?” Bofur asked as he launched something green at Fili. He bumped into Kili in his attempt to not get hit by the vegetable“Three on two?” Fili smiled as he picked up his spoon, “I like those odds. Your loss will be more humiliating.”“I will make you eat those words,” Faye grinned.Those not involved looked on in bemusement as taunts and food flew across the table. As the five participants began hitting their marks the others started taking wagers. Faye didn’t know who had bet on who as everyone’s laughter and cheers filled her ears.Dwalin, observing the battle, watched a yam fly clear over his head. Its final destination remained unknown.“Any higher and it would clear the Misty Mountains,” he said with half a smirk. “It must have been a lucky shot after all.” His comment made her wonder how long he had been watching them.“Shall I try again?” Faye asked, “Or would you like to show me how good your aim is?” She watched as he pursed his lips and glanced down at his plate. It almost looked as if he might consider helping the youngest of his kin but he would not get a chance to respond.The young and mischievous Kili had used the lull as an opportunity to steal a sausage link from Dwalin’s plate and toss it at Faye. Having been watching him, she was prepared for something sneaky. She leaned back and opened her mouth to capture it. Several of the dwarves cheered while the rest groaned as she caught it. Why it was chosen as the battle’s deciding factor, she didn’t know but she had to admit victory tasted pretty damn good.Coins were passed to those who bet Bofur, Faye, and Nori would be the champions. And despite their loss, Fili and Kili still grinned happily and carefree. They were still relatively young for dwarves, younger than the rest, and she felt her maternal instincts kick in. She wanted to protect them and ensure they enjoyed the joys of life as long as possible before the rug was ripped from under them.“Doubt that’s the first she’s caught a sausage in her mouth,” Dwalin murmured to Kili with a smirk. He had jokes and so did she.“Nope,” Faye popped the p. Propping her chin on her hand, she smiled salaciously at him. “I have yet to hear any complaints either. Would you care for a personal experience?” When he hesitated to speak she wagged her eyebrows at him. The overzealous proposal broke any tension.“I will take your word and leave that business to you,” he replied. His eyes lingered on her before he drained his mug.“Was the offer only for him?” Bofur leaned in, whispering to her.“Sort of. I knew he would decline. But…” Keeping her head propped on her hand, she looked over at him. Playfully, she trailed her eyes up and down him before lifting her head from her hand. “Let’s see how the evening goes after the clean-up.”Faye rose to her feet and began to gather plates when the others followed her lead. It was a welcomed treat to have all of them assist in the cleanup. Gathering a stack of dishes, she walked to the kitchen as the dwarves started singing. Bifur followed behind her, carrying a second stack, and set them next to the large basin she was filling with water. Their song and added instruments weaved its way into the kitchen as Ori brought in another tower of plates and bowls.To her relief, Bifur did not abandon her to do all the washing. She would not have minded in all honesty but it was always more enjoyable to have company. They developed a rhythm to the beat of the song their companions were singing in the main room. Before long, she noticed Bifur was looking over his shoulder frequently.“Hey,” Faye nudged him with her elbow, “Go ahead. There’s not much left.” She was all too familiar with the longing look in his eyes. He hesitated at first, looking over at the stack of pots and pans on the counter that still needed to be cleaned.“Go,” she assured him. He responded in his foreign tongue and bowed before leaving her. His departure left her feeling more alone than ever. She had told him to go but hadn’t realized the impact it would have on her. A door separated her from the others but it might as well have been a mountain.She worked quietly, ignoring the dark whispers in her mind. When she finished, she did not immediately join them and instead inspected what was left of the innkeeper’s stock. By the time she had evenly dispensed the food, placed them in bags, and dragged them out by the bar, a few of the dwarves had already gone to their rooms.The table they had dinner at was broken down and two pieces shoved along the wall with the rest of the furniture. Balin, Dwalin, and Thorin sat at the last section with their heads huddled. Joining them crossed her mind, but she saw Gandalf and Bilbo just beyond them. She hadn’t spoken with them since their arrival and went to rectify that. Passing the fireplace, she wiggled her fingers at Bofur, Nori, Fili, and Kili in greeting. The warm, aromatic scent of their pipe tobacco filled her lungs. There was a hint of something sweet mingled in it and she slowed her pace to savor its smell. As she was passing Thorin’s table she overheard a bit of their conversation.“There’s still plenty of time,” Balin murmured.“And what of the door?” Thorin inquired. “We still do not know where it is located and we only have one chance to open it and enter the mountain.”Her heart skipped a beat and she stopped walking. The mountain. It could only be the Lonely Mountain.“I knew it!” She exclaimed, drawing everyone’s attention. “You’re not just going to visit family. You’re going to try and reclaim the Lonely Mountain.” The room went silent and a tension thick enough to suffocate a dragon cloaked the room. She could feel several eyes switching between her and Thorin.“And what of it?” He asked in an exasperated tone. Thorin stood and turned to face her.“Let me help!”“No.”“Why not? I’m a capable fighter.”“If we were in need of fighters we could hire sellswords,” he sounded more tired than angry now. “This is a matter of trust and who here would vouch for your character?” he asked.Faye’s eyes darted to Balin, pleading. He was the only one who had a history with her, as short as it may have been. His word had to hold some weight with them. He dropped his gaze and just when she thought all was lost he spoke up.“I’ll vouch for her,” Balin shot her a sympathetic glance. He didn’t look hopeful but it was all she could ask of him.“You should not vouch for someone you barely knew years ago,” Dwalin frowned. Just when she thought she had started wearing him down he set her back in place. The buzz of beer must have run its course.“I will remind you she could have stolen everything I had any night she stood watch,” Balin countered, “Not to mention she did not have to help deal with the orc scouts or inform us of this inn. She has given us no reason not to trust her.”“I will give her that. But what of her other companions? Why is it you are alive and they are not?” Thorin looked at her with a stoic expression. It was hard for her to read. “How can we trust you will have our backs when the time calls for it?”Faye opened her mouth to reply, eager to try and plead her case but froze. Images of bloodied faces flashed in her mind. Her words were trapped in her throat as she remembered her last night with her late companions. She slipped her hand into the left pocket of her pants to feel for the single coin hidden in it.She had failed them. She had failed to face the truth before it was too late and lost everything. It was her burden to bear and she swore would never allow it to happen again if given the chance. As much as she wanted to tell him their story she found she couldn’t force the words out. With a little more time she’d be willing to share that chapter of her life. But all she could do now was cast her gaze down.“I appreciate what you have done but I am not willing to put the safety of my kin in your hands if you cannot discuss what happened to yours,” Thorin said after regarding her for a moment. “This quest does not concern you and I will speak no more of this.” After bidding them a good evening he marched up the stairs to his room, determination darkening his features. Faye looked between Dwalin and Balin and dipped her head with a quiet apology. Not wanting to face the awkward looks of the others, she walked to the bar and took a seat.Creaks from the stairs next to the bar alerted her to at least two of the others heading upstairs. She listened to their heavy steps across the platform and the clicks of their doors. The soft murmurs of the others melded with the crackling fire.“Forgive him,” Balin said as he approached Faye, “Thorin has been through more than most. His priority is to our kin. Most of us do not care for old rivalries but his attempts to seek help from the elves and humans have not gone well. It was because of Gandalf we were set on this path and on his insistence we bring Bilbo.”“I understand,” she forced an unconvincing smile. “I thank you for sticking your neck out for me.” Her hand remained in her pocket, fingers stroking the coin. Something in her heart wanted her to try again but logic told her not to. She felt comforted after Balin gave her back a few pats before he left her in peace. Faye remained at the bar even after everyone else had turned in for the night. The embers of the fire had gone cold when she finally went to sleep.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Daylight filtered through the inn’s windows, bathing its rooms with a warm light. The building breathed to life as the company stirred and made themselves breakfast. As she had the morning before, Faye woke before the rest and took her leave. Guilt had woven its way into her heart for not saying goodbye, leaving a simple message with Alwyn to pass along instead. It had not been her original plan but something in her gut advised her not to say a final goodbye. So she listened.The sun had climbed to its peak before she veered off the main road and began searching the mountainsides for signs of the trolls. Alwyn had given her a vague idea of where to search but he had either been misinformed or they had moved to a new location. The trails she discovered were old and mostly washed out from rain. Despite this, she continued to scour the area.Hours passed without much luck and pinks and oranges snuffed out the sky’s blue when she changed her tactic. Finding them first was beyond the question now that stars blinked into existence. They would begin hunting and at least if she were on the road she’d have a brief moment to react where in the woods they could snatch her right off her horse. She’d have to use herself as bait on the main road. Guiding Neve to the main path, Faye made her walk down the middle in hopes of luring the trolls to her.Over the next few hours fear coiled in her guts as she searched the edges of the dark woods. She was tired but her mind ran wild with the horrors of what may occur if she let her guard down even for a second; the subtle rustling of leaves or hiss of the wind startling her. Moonlight dispersed through the leaves creating large, ominous shadows that followed the horse and rider. She only looked away from the forest when she heard the steady beat of hooves.Glancing ahead, she spotted the man and horse trotting quickly toward her. Had it not been for the familiar shape of his hat she may have been alarmed enough to draw her weapon.“Gandalf? What are you doing out here?” She asked. Her eyes weren’t as sharp as a full elf’s but she did have an advantage over most humans. Enough of his features were recognizable in the dim starlight to identify him. “Where are the others?”“I fear they may be in danger. But I cannot know for sure,” he said briskly. Faye tugged Neve’s reins to turn her around and accompany the wizard. As disappointed as she was about not being allowed to join the company she didn’t wish any harm to come to them. If anything, she wanted them to succeed in their quest.“Danger? Do not tell me they ran into trolls.”“Precisely that I’m afraid. I just met with some of Lord Elrond’s men and they verified the innkeeper’s rumors of trolls.” He grimaced. Her chest felt tighter as they quickened their pace.“Dawn is not far off. If we’re lucky they may have avoided detection. Or at the very least have not been added to the menu,” she hoped. They reached the location Thorin’s company had made camp and found it empty. Faye slid off Neve before the horse came to a full stop and knelt. Heavy-footed tracks led deeper into the woods, grooves in the ground revealing the dwarves had moved quickly.She followed them with Gandalf at her side, noting the uprooted trees they had likely climbed over. Larger tracks of trolls became more prominent and a light in the distance drew her attention from the ground. Faye shared an uneasy glance with Gandalf before leading the way through the darkest shadows to get a better view. They chose to use two large trees a few feet away from the edge of the camp as cover.The blazing fire filled the camp in an inviting light any wayward traveler would be lured to. They wouldn’t realize their mistake until they entered and saw the formidable creatures. Small cuts with dried smears of blood were visible on their thick leathery hides but the creatures didn’t appear phased as the two largest spun a large dwarf covered spit. The third gleefully poked at each squirming body as they passed and were licked with another wave of heat.Were the dwarves not in mortal danger she would have found the scene comical. Every stage of denial was displayed on their face with each agonizing rotation. They were still alive and could be saved.Her heart still crawled into her throat as she noticed only a handful of them turning. Leaning from behind the tree, she searched desperately for the rest and only breathed again when she found them. Those not on the spit were bundled in burlap sacks at the edge of the camp. To her relief, everyone appeared lively.“Fools,” Gandalf sighed. He shook his head and looked at the dark sky. “How did they all manage to get captured?”She moved back behind the tree and followed his line of sight. Stars still glimmered overhead but the dimmest of them had already disappeared as the moon dove below the treeline. As dimwitted as the trolls were they too would begin to notice night was almost over. She would need to act fast to prevent them from taking desperate measures to deal with their meal.Her instinct was to impulsively run in and use her agility against their sluggish movements. However, the lives of others depended on her and she couldn’t afford to be reckless. One or several of them were likely to get stepped on as soon as she sprung an attack. Or the spit might get knocked into the fire. She shut her eyes and attempted to think it through when Gandalf spoke.“There is a boulder on the hill behind them,” Gandalf pointed out. “It will not be long before the sun is high enough to fill this space if it is broken. We only need them distracted until then.”“I can distract them,” her eyes snapped open as she looked at Gandalf, grinning deviously. “Give me a chance.” If there was one thing she knew she could excel at, it was being a distraction.There was a moment of stillness before he nodded at her. Without wasting another moment, she left the tree and crept closer to the camp. She had talked herself in and out of danger enough to feel confident in her ability to waste time and possibly confuse her enemies. All she needed was the right moment to make her move.Luck would be on her side as her wish was answered. No sooner had she stopped at the edge of the light did she hear Bilbo’s voice. Her heart fluttered anxiously as she watched the hobbit hop up and address the trolls about cooking his companions. She’d kiss him if she could for how perfect his timing was.“The, uh, secret to cooking dwarf is…” Bilbo hesitated.“Yes, go on, tell us the secret!” A one-eyed troll insisted. Bilbo stuttered and gaped, sweat trickling down the sides of his face. Now was her chance.“Is to skin them first!” Faye exclaimed as she stepped into the light. Her heart raced and banged erratically against its bony cage as she walked closer. The trolls appeared even larger than before now that she was face to face with them. She stopped walking to stand next to the flummoxed hobbit.A deafening silence fell over the camp for only a moment before her words were processed. The disapproving roars of the stunned dwarves were about as convincing as she could have hoped. The death threats as well.The trolls remained silent for a moment longer with round eyes and slack-jawed expressions. It took another rotation of the spit before they seemed to recover from their shock. Their eyes scanned the darkness of the trees, perhaps searching for any other interlopers. When no one else came out of the darkness they straightened up and returned their attention to her.“Who are you?” The one-eyed troll demanded. “And what do you know of cooking dwarf?”“Faye, at your service,” she bowed. “I apologize for not introducing myself first. However, I would not approach such fierce creatures as yourselves and interrupt your meal if I did not believe I could offer something worth your time.” She placed her hand on Bilbo’s shoulder and gave it a gentle squeeze.Looking at Bilbo, she smiled as he returned her look with uncertainty. Giving him a wink, she hopefully assured him everything would be alright. Faye allowed her smile to fall as she tilted her head side to side before glancing between Bilbo and the trolls several times.“You weren’t planning on eating him were you?” Faye finally asked, carefully moving her hand closer to the coarse rope around his neck. She watched as the three trolls glanced at one another. When they all looked away from her she started slipping her fingers between the rope coils to loosen the knot. “Don’t you know what he is?”“He said he was a burrahobbit,” the one-eyed troll replied, looking back at her.“That’s right! Then you know how incredibly poisonous they are to trolls!” Again, Faye watched as the trolls exchanged glances again.“She’s right! Absolutely right,” Bilbo nodded vigorously. The knot on the rope had become loose enough for him to shimmy his shoulders free and drop the bag around his ankles. If the trolls noticed they didn’t say anything.“What good luck it is that I arrived then! Had I not come along you would have tried eating him! And then you’d be puking out your guts!” Faye shook her head and placed her hands on her hips.“How do we know you ain’t lying?” The burliest of the trolls asked as he narrowed his eyes. Momentarily, he had stopped turning the spit, leaving Dori, Dwalin, and Ori at the mercy of the flames. A lump formed in her throat as she watched them strain against their constraints, skin glistening with sweat.“Well, have you ever met a troll that’s eaten one?” Bilbo asked.“I have! And that’s exactly why I’m warning you against it now. If you thought sunlight was bad,” she walked closer to the trolls, stumbling slightly when her foot collided with an exposed tree root. Her eyes lingered on the root before she pointed at the spit. “Best to stick to what you know.” She twirled her finger to remind the troll to keep them rotating.“I won’t be forgetting this!” Dwalin growled as he spun past her. Neither would she. They’d either be laughing about it later or it’d be another nightmare to haunt her. Faye ignored the rest of the scornful comments that were directed at her.“Like dwarf?” The small troll asked.“Exactly! And what you’re doing is all wrong. Roasting them will take all night.” Another cacophony of angry cries filled the air.“But removing the skins will help?” The one-eye troll asked, approaching her. His back was to Bilbo and the dwarves, giving the hobbit time to try and free his companions. Watching from the corner of her eyes, she could see him struggling. It was okay because more stars were beginning to fade as the sky lightened.“It would…if you had the time. This late you might as well just mince them and boil them up. It’s the only way they’ll be ready to eat!” She looked around the camp and spotted a large overturned cauldron.“You,” she pointed at the smaller troll and drew his attention to the cauldron by him. “Be a good lad and fill it up! I’m sure you know where the river nearby is.”He stared at her with an expression that questioned why he should listen to her. But after a slap upside the head from the one-eyed troll he begrudgingly picked it up and stumbled into the forest.Looking at the large troll, Faye noticed he looked tensed and now jerked the spit in hard turns instead of a slow, even spin. His eyes didn’t leave her even when his companion returned. It took less time than she expected for him to return and set the cauldron beside the fire. She glanced at the sky and knew she needed more time. It felt like her guts were beginning to knot themselves as sweat trickled from her pores. She watched as the trolls went to lift the dwarves from the fire.“Ah, not yet! Now that I think about it…a few more turns to crisp up the skin. Comes off easier.” she stated. This appeared to be the breaking point for the larger troll.“I heard enough of this!” He snapped then looked to the other two. “Why don’t we just eat them raw? I’ve scarfed down plenty o’ them. Boots’n all!”“He’s right,” the smaller troll perked up with a smile. He stomped over to where Bilbo was and snatched up Bombur with terrifying ease. “Nothin’ wrong with a bit of raw dwarf!”She was certain her heart had completely stopped beating as soon as the troll lifted Bombur over his head and opened his mouth. The sun had not climbed high enough to be of any use.“NO!” Faye yelled, throwing out both of her hands. “Not him!” The troll stopped and looked at her from the corner of his eye.“That one’s infected!” Bilbo had also thrown his hands up but quickly dropped them to his sides. “He’s got worms…in his…tubes.” The last word was asked rather than said and Faye feared the trolls may have caught on. Her fear was erased when Bombur was flung to the ground with a meaty thud.“All of them are if I’m being completely honest. It’s a terrible business and I wouldn’t risk it,” Bilbo added and glanced at Faye.“I fear he may be right. If they’re all infected with parasites then they’re not worth eating,” Faye maintained eye contact with Bilbo.To her absolute horror, she overheard the dwarves on the ground start yelling about not having parasites. The realization that they had truly believed she and Bilbo were attempting to help the trolls make a meal of them hit her like a war hammer in the gut. Faye closed her eyes and chewed the inside of her cheek to temper her anger. A silence fell when Thorin, the first to see the truth, kicked Kili.The chorus that came after didn’t help their charade as now every one of them was trying to convince the trolls they were the most riddled or had the largest parasites. She reached up and pinched the bridge of her nose, preferring when they had been unaware and silently seething.“What rubbish! Are we to just let’m all go then?” The large troll stomped toward her. She dropped her hand and looked up at him without a word. Movement from the corner of her eye drew her attention to the sliver of orange on the horizon. The enemies’ backs were to the sun and hope bloomed in her heart. All she needed was a few more minutes.“Yeah. But you all did that the moment you let me trick your dimwitted asses into believing I knew how to cook dwarf. It’s no wonder your kind are rarely even footnotes in a story,” she taunted to the shock of everyone.Enraged, the troll lunged at her, hand outstretched. Faye made to run but the same root she had stumbled on earlier tripped her again. She slammed into the dirt and was swiftly snatched up by her pursuer.“Who were you callin’ dimwitted?” He roared in her face, fists squeezing her tightly enough to cause her to cry out. But to his confusion, she only smiled at him.“You,” she threw the handful of dirt she had picked up into his eyes. With another roar, he threw her to the ground and stumbled back. He collided with the cauldron hard enough to knock it over so the water extinguished the campfire with a loud hiss.“Get her!” He spat, blinking rapidly as he continued trying to rub the irritants from his eyes. The other two jumped into action but only got two steps before a loud voice rose behind them.“Dawn take you all, and be stone to you!” Gandalf’s words boomed, capturing everyone’s attention. She heard the crack of the rock he stood on split and felt the reassuring warmth of the sun as it spilled into the troll’s camp. They barely let out a whimper before their bodies went rigid and their skin hardened to stone.Cheers from the dwarves rose with the plume of white smoke of the extinguished fire. Night completely gave way to the morning as Gandalf, Faye, and Bilbo freed the dwarves and helped locate their discarded armor. Bruised egos were forgotten and cooling salves slathered on red marks from the coarse ropes.An apology was tossed to Faye and Bilbo here and there for something said while they tried to waste as much time as possible. But Faye had paid no mind to their vicious words at the moment. Had she been in their place, she imagined she’d have been more creative with her threats and curses.“Just so you know,” Faye said, walking up to Dwalin as he fastened his axe holster together, “I won’t be forgetting this either. Didn’t think I’d ever find the idea of eating dwarf appetizing.”“You’d be singing a different tune if you were the one getting roasted,” he replied. His expression appeared irritated but there was a subtle hint of playfulness in his tone. And looking in his eyes, she believed they had a softer edge. Was he simply relieved to live to fight another day or was she starting to chisel the wall between them down?“I don’t doubt that. But I’d give them indigestion,” she replied. A short huff of laughter escaped him and she couldn’t help but grin even wider. It was a victory in itself. “But I do have one question.”“And what would that be?” He asked.“Did they strip you or did they give you all the dignity to do it yourselves?”Dwalin’s demeanor changed as any semblance of softness diminished from his face. He scowled and a slight hint of blush dusted his cheeks. It’d remain a mystery to her if it was anger or embarrassment but it was a simple question.“Why would that matter?” He asked.“Just curious. Maybe next time someone prettier could do it,” she smirked. Dwalin straightened and visibly tensed up. The blush darkened a shade before her eyes. She watched as he rolled his shoulders back.“And do you think that’s you?” He asked. She only smiled and shrugged in response as he regarded her silently. His eyes flicked up and down, possibly considering the proposition. His attention was snatched away as Thorin sped past them.“There must be a cave nearby,” Thorin informed them and was soon followed by the rest of his kin. She would have remained there had it not been for Bilbo.“Aren’t you coming?” He asked from beside her. She watched as he looked to Gandalf who gestured for both of them to follow. So she did.It didn’t take them long to discover the cave after finding a trail of bones of all shapes and sizes. The entrance had large piles of discarded carcasses. Several rib cages appeared human but it was hard to tell what the rest were without their accompanying skulls. A few brave souls volunteered to follow Gandalf into the dim dwelling. She was not one of them. Standing outside, she caught whiffs of the foul odor that lingered further in and had no desire to assault her senses further.She continued staring at the opening as Bifur crouched beside her to survey a pile of bones. Her attention dropped to him as he mumbled under his breath and pulled out different animal skulls and showed her. Despite not understanding a word he said, she squatted beside him and picked through it as well. It didn’t take long for Thorin and the others to return.“Find anything worthwhile?” Faye questioned as Bofur walked over to her and his cousin. He smiled down at them and wiped dirty fingers on the sides of his coat.“Aye. Lots of treasure and weapons,” he replied eagerly. “Will be worth coming back by if all else fails.”“Listen up everyone,” Thorin’s commanding voice captured everyone’s attention. “It’s been a long day and night, so return to camp and try and get some sleep. We’ll continue our journey at noon.” As before, he glanced at Faye but she found his expression as enigmatic as ever. It was easier to read a wild animal’s thoughts than to try and even guess what was going on behind his eyes. Considering he didn’t say anything to her she assumed it’d be acceptable to rest with them.When they reached their camp, Faye unsaddled her mare and led her to the ponies that idly grazed. Fatigue seeped into her as she returned to the camp and saw most had already been claimed by sleep. They hadn’t bothered to remove their sleeping rolls and instead used their bags as pillows.Leaves rustled quietly overhead as thin beams of light pierced the shade of the forest. Faye found an open spot near Bofur and lay on the cool ground. Looking at Bofur, she noticed he had already dozed off, hat pulled over his eyes and lips slightly parted as he snored softly. Rolling onto her back she gave in to her weariness and quickly drifted off.She wasn’t aware of how long she’d been asleep when she felt a firm grip on her shoulder. Bofur knelt beside her, shaking her as he glanced at her and over his shoulder and back again. She didn’t need to understand the words that came from him to know something was wrong. Bleary-eyed, Faye bolted to her feet, using his help to steady herself as her senses woke up.“Something’s coming!” Fili called from across the camp. “Get the ponies!”“The ponies are gone!” Ori came running from where they had left them to graze. “They bolted!”There was a sinking feeling in her heart as she thought of Neve. For a moment, she considered whistling for her mare in hopes she’d return to her but that would likely pull her into whatever danger was coming their way. If they had run off together, at least she would have companions. Her eyes burned with the fear of never seeing her again and losing yet another friend but she held back the tears. She could only hope they had fled to safety.Everyone else scrambled to their feet, gathering whatever items they could. Weapons were drawn with lightning speed as they gathered closer to one another, searching for where the danger was coming from.A lone warg broke through the brush, lunging and snapping with long yellow fangs. Its heavy paws collided with Oin, knocking him to the ground with devastating force. She could hear the wind escape his lungs but before the beast could do any further damage Dwalin came to the rescue.A flash of gray slammed into the Warg’s head, knocking it off balance and dazing it. With a mighty shake of its head, it turned to the dwarf and bared its teeth, blood trickling down from a gash on its head. It charged at him, attempting to chomp down on the war hammer or the dwarf that wielded it.Like before, its attack was stopped as Thorin and Bifur pierced the flesh of its neck with their weapons. A loud blood-curdling howl left the creature as its eyes rolled up and it fell limp. Its limbs twitched as they removed their blades and a series of distant howls answered the dying cry.“We can’t stay. Follow me!” Gandalf ordered, taking point. “Hurry!”No arguments were offered as the group trailed behind him. Barks and howls of more wargs drew closer with every passing moment. There were only one or two moments of rest as the sun chased them across the sky, peeking between gaps in the trees until finally they reached an open area. The real danger came now that they couldn’t rely on the thick brush to slow down the pack chasing them.“Where are we heading?” Thorin called breathlessly as they trudged across the hilly area. Faye noticed he stared at a large white rock they ran by and then a second. It was clear Gandalf was now following a trail. He didn’t respond but instead, continued their path.The orc scouting party burst from the forest behind and started closing the distance. The pack spread out, riderless wargs raced ahead to flank their prey and drive them back.“They’re surrounding us!” Fili called as they reached a crevice surrounded by large rocks. Everyone drew their weapons and began backing up as the enemy stalked closer. Kili released an arrow that pierced the shoulder of a warg that yelped and bit at the exposed staff.“Where’s Gandalf?” Dori called, looking over his shoulder as he backed up with his brother and cousin. In their decision to stand their ground, everyone had lost sight and track of the wizard. A new sense of dread stained the air now that they had been abandoned by him. Or so they thought.“This way!” Gandalf demanded as his head popped up from the outcropping of rocks. Kili remained where he was, firing a series of arrows at the orcs and wargs that decided to charge. He was soon joined by Faye who used the last of her arrows to provide more time for the dwarves to escape.“Come on!” Faye grabbed the back of Kili’s jacket and tugged him toward the crevice where the rest were still sliding in. He released one last shot before both jumped down to join the others. Thorin was the last one in, cutting down a warg that had attempted to flank them.A horn blared, followed by the yelps and cries of death. Elves. Faye couldn’t imagine anyone else coming to their aid and she recalled Gandalf telling her he had met with Lord Elrond’s men the other night. Were they expecting trouble? Or was there a patrol for a different reason?“There’s a path. Do we follow it or not?” Dwalin asked, drawing their attention.“Follow it, of course,” Bofur said, urging them forward. Faye looked back at the crevice one last time before joining the rest through the narrow passage.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
The rocky walls of the crevice breathed around them, expanding wide enough for them to walk in pairs before narrowing so tightly that the encumbered dwarves had to shift their bags to squeeze through. Poor Bombur had to be shoved and pulled several times simultaneously in the tightest passages before they reached a section wide enough for everyone to walk comfortably.Faye was silent as she followed, preoccupied with focusing on the crack of light overhead, listening to the other's exasperated grumbling swell into a hive of angry bees. She was beginning to believe they were trapped in some nightmarish maze with no end. Seconds crept into minutes, minutes clawed into hours, hours into years, and God she’d suddenly found herself trapped there for a lifetime.No, that wasn’t the truth. In reality, it had only been a few minutes.The desire to turn around and return to the opening they’d come from or even claw her way to the top was slowly becoming unbearable. It felt as if the walls around her were shifting, constricting, and closing in on her with every step as a scream crawled its way up her throat. Just when the cry reached the back of her tongue she felt a warm tingling caress her skin, pulling a soft sigh from her lips instead.“Magic,” she murmured. It was a welcomed distraction, something else for her to focus on. Curious, she looked over her shoulder to see if Bilbo and Gandalf had noticed the change. A warm, knowing smile graced the wizard’s face while Bilbo looked as surprised as her.“I feel it too,” Bilbo said stopping to look at the wizard, “Gandalf…where are we?”“You will see soon enough,” the wizard gestured for them to continue along the path.He might as well have whacked Faye on the back of the head with his staff, dread seeping into her skin and weighing her down. How soon was soon enough? The walls were beginning to collapse in on her once more, stealing the air around her. But, she did as Gandald bid and started walking, hoping to see the end of this rocky maze soon.“There’s light ahead,” echoed a deep voice.The promise of escaping the tight passage was all the motivation she required to quicken her pace, nearly pushing on Kili’s back to urge him to speed up. Turning a bend, rock gave way to a widening archway of light and she nearly leaped over those who had not walked through yet but managed to keep herself under control, barely. She entered the valley and sighed as the midsummer’s warm air embraced her like an old friend, wrapping around her chilled skin and filling her lungs with fresh air.She stood close to Kili, lips parted slightly as she took in the awe-inspiring sight. Frothing water cascaded down from high plant-veiled cliffs, merging and splitting at the houses and buildings nestled below them. The sun’s warm light created a shifting relief of light and shadow as the trees trembled in anticipation of the newcomers.“The Valley of Imladris,” Gandalf broke the trance that had befallen everyone smiling as he stared at the last homely house in the East, “In the common tongue, it’s known by another name.”“Rivendell,” Bilbo and Faye said in unison. They exchanged a glance and smiled. Hers faltered as she turned to look back at Rivendell in time to see Thorin turn his back on it. His brows furrowed and a glacial ice sharpened his piercing gaze, causing her heart to freeze for a few beats.“This was your plan all along,” Thorin grunted, walking past her to approach Gandalf, much to her relief. Hoping to avoid unnecessary conflict, Faye quietly shuffled down to where Bofur stood at the ledge.His hands were draped over the head of his mattock, the left corner of his lip pulled back into an ambiguous line, and his brows were knitted together. It was an oddly comical expression to her. She watched how his eyes surveyed Rivendell, mapping out every platform, bridge, and stairway visible to them before they flicked to her.His expression relaxed and an inviting warmth glinted in his eyes as he smiled at her. Heat erupted from her chest and radiated through her in pulsing waves. A part of her wondered if this particular look was for her alone or if he always exuded magnetic energy. Either way, she was drawn to it like a moth to a flame, craving the warmth and security it brought her.“You two just going to stare into each other’s eyes all evening or do you plan to join the rest of us?” Dwalin interrupted their moment. Glancing around, Faye noticed that Gandalf had taken point and was leading the rest down the path toward Rivendell.“Are you jealous?” Faye asked, languidly reaching her hand out as if she were going to stroke his face. “I’ll stare into your eyes too if you’d like.”“Not interested,” Dwalin slapped her hand away with the back of his as it hovered near his face. She didn’t believe him to be someone who would hold back if he truly disliked something so she had to wonder if he wasn’t as stern as he led on. The tone of his voice, lacking its usual sharpness, coupled with the lightness of the tap intrigued her.“I don’t mind sharing,” Bofur added, lifting his mattock and resting it on his shoulder. His smile was teasing and he winked at Faye before joining the others.“Maybe next time then,” Faye fluttered her lashes at Dwalin.They followed Gandalf down the narrow passage and across the bridge that spanned a chasm and protected the elves from any possible threats. Upon reaching the main landing, two guards impeded the group’s path up the next flight of stairs. The dwarves’ heads swiveled, eyeing the intricate architecture and stonework making hushed remarks as they waited impatiently for their host to arrive.“Mithrandir,” a soft voice spoke. Faye turned to watch a tall elf with dark hair descend the stairs with feline grace.“Ah, Lindir,” Gandalf approached and the two began conversing.No sooner had he inquired about Elrond did a horn blare, its wail carried through the valley in a triumphant wave. The soft clopping of hooves sounded behind the group and before Faye could even turn to watch the line of riders arrive, she heard Thorin yelling to close ranks. She had taken a step to stand near Gandalf to avoid being in the way of the patrol, but somehow found herself back to back with Bilbo surrounded by twelve defensive dwarves.An applause of stomping hooves swirled around the group, hot hair tousled beards and hair as the large beasts and their riders stared down their straight long noses at the intruders. It was a look she knew all too well and while she didn’t draw her weapon she felt her fingers fidget. The riders circled them a few times before stopping as the last crossed onto the landing.“Gandalf,” the last rider greeted, golden light glinting off the silver circlet on his head.“Lord Elrond. My friend,” the wizard spoke in elvish as he bowed. His smile widened as the elf-lord slid from his steed and embraced him. The greeting was warm and inviting and Faye found it odd. She wondered if it was simply because they were old friends or if the elves here were more open to affectionate behaviors.“Some of my men informed me you were in the area,” he said, walking to Lindir and handing him an orcish sword. “That might explain why orcs would venture so close to our borders as well as why they would suffer daylight.” His eyes flicked to the encircled dwarves, taking in each of their faces.Faye caught his eye and for a moment she believed she saw a flicker of recognition. Impossible considering she had never been to Rivendell nor had she met him. Her heart started to quicken and a mass of questions wedged in her throat. She watched as he looked away, eyes honing in on Thorin. They began exchanging words but the thunderous rush of blood in her ears made it difficult for her to hear.“Are you alright?” Bilbo asked, drawing his hand away when she flinched.“Hmm? Oh, yeah,” she forced a smile on her face. Reaching up, she felt below her collarbone to find her necklace, fingers sliding across the rectangular planes. She opened her mouth to spit out a lie when Elrond began speaking in elvish again. His decision to welcome them and invite them to recover in elvish and not the common tongue confused her, but then she noticed the amused spark in his eyes when the dwarves bristled.“What is he sain’? Does he offer us insult?” Gloin demanded, the others quickly riled up around him.Agitated whispers buzzed around her as continued looking at Elrond. She recognized the mischievous smirk and silent delight in his eyes, having held back the same amount of glee several times in her life. She couldn’t help but wonder if he had more in store for them and how long it’d take for her companions to notice. If she remembered correctly, Gandalf had told her he met two of Elrond’s men on the road, which meant he had time to prepare for their arrival and think of little ways to annoy his guests.“No, Master Gloin. He is offering you food,” Gandalf replied with a small smile. A short-lived hush fell over the dwarves before a flurry of murmurs were exchanged and they reached a unanimous consensus.“Ah, well. In that case, lead on,” Gloin sniffed.Faye smiled, pleased to know she wasn’t the only one motivated by food. Her stomach gave a painful reminder as if suddenly remembering she hadn’t given it anything since lunch the previous day. She released her necklace and placed her hand on her abdomen, rubbing it in vain as they were first led to a large room that would accommodate all of them. She’d been offered a smaller private room but refused.She had spent enough time alone to know that no matter how hard she tried to convince herself it was better that way it wasn’t. Like a dragon with its hoard, she wanted to surround herself with the sound of their boisterous laughter and revel in their camaraderie, treasuring and valuing every moment as long as she could.They left their bags in the center of the room and followed their chaperones to an open area overlooking the valley. Musicians’ nimble fingers got to work on creating an ambient symphony for the meal. There were three tables, one smaller one with three chairs meant for Elrond, Gandalf, and Thorin, and two incredibly short tables surrounded by plush poufs.Faye glanced between the two low-set tables and the third, unable to shake the suspicion that the elves purposely found the shortest tables possible for the dwarves. She looked around and noted none of the elves playing instruments or setting the tables betrayed any sign of it being a joke. Pinching her lips together to keep from smiling, she took the available seat next to Dwalin and across from Bofur.“Can’t imagine they could find any smaller tables,” she grunted, shifting to try and find a comfortable position. Placing her feet flat was out of the question, her knees slammed painfully against the table. If she crossed her legs her right knee pressed into Dwalin’s thigh which he was quick to correct by knocking his leg against hers.“Why’d ya come over here and start knockin’ knees with me?” he asked, nudging his leg against hers to force it out of his space.“So I can continue starin’ into Bofur’s eyes since you said you weren’t interested,” she batted her lashes at him as before and stretched her legs out to either side of Bofur’s. “And if Kili tries to reclaim his and Fili’s honor with another food fight I won’t be the one that hits you.”A whirlwind of green suddenly flooded her vision as Dwalin grabbed a handful of the mixed salad and tossed it at her. She remained still for a moment, surprise blooming across her wide-eyed, slack-jawed expression. Snickers transcended to laughter as she closed her mouth with a lettuce leaf between her pink lips. Exhaling sharply, she blew it toward her attacker who sported a smug grin.“You were sayin’?” He laughed along with the others.“I stand corrected and don’t think I’ll forget this,” she warned him, unable to prevent a smile from spreading across her face. She grabbed a roll from one of the plates and quickly noticed the lack of any true sustenance. Bowls of vibrant salads and other raw vegetables overshadowed the single plate of dinner rolls.“Where’s the meat?” Dwalin asked, noticing the same.Another sleight against the dwarves. Out of curiosity, she looked over her shoulder, catching Lord Elrond’s eye. There were generations of heartache, war, trials, and tribulations reflected but also something lighter and softer. It was a whisper of levity all elves had that kept their spirits high despite the horrors they witnessed in their longevity. Returning her gaze to the table, she noticed Dwalin staring hard at Kili.What had she missed? She parted her lips to question them but the young dwarf was already trying to defend himself.“I can’t say I fancy elf maids myself, too thin,” he furrowed his brows, looking at Dwalin who only raised his own. “They’re all high cheekbones and creamy skin. Not enough facial hair for me. Although, that one there is not bad.”Everyone at both tables looked up at the high-cheekboned and creamy-skinned elf that walked past him, fingers plucking away at the lyre’s strings.Faye pursed her lips and instantly felt bad for the poor lad.Dwalin leaned forward, “That’s not an elf maid.”Both tables burst into laughter as Kili dropped his gaze. Red bled across his cheeks and to his ears.“Don’t let their teasing get to you,” Faye leaned toward Kili, whispering, “Elf maids and men lay basically the same. You probably wouldn’t notice a difference.”“How would you know?” Nori asked, leaning around Dwalin while tucking something into the inside of his jacket.“How do you think?” She lowered her voice. “Most elves take love and coitus seriously but there’s always a few deviants.”Their wide, unblinking expressions delighted her in a carnal way, a secret shared among friends. There were no upturned noses or disdainful lip curls that left a bitter taste in her mouth. They simply accepted the news and continued their dinner, commenting again on solemn music and the lack of meat. Toward the end of the meal, Bofur hopped onto the table and began singing a song that all the dwarves quickly echoed.Spirits soared as they pounded on the tables in time with their singing and tossed untouched greens at Bofur and one another. As the group cheered and applauded Bofur the elves stared in repulsion at the uncomely display. It sounded as if the elves took a collective breath when their guests shuffled to their feet, groaning and mumbling as they stretched their stiff legs and thanked their host.~~~Despite the dregs of the last few days’ exhaustion seeping into her limbs and weighing her down, she couldn’t settle. She had only scarfed down a single roll before the rest of the meal was tossed about. The sharp pang in her stomach evolved into a persistent stabbing that made her nauseated.She tried lying down, staring at the ribbed ceiling, but couldn’t find a comfortable position. Getting back to her feet she walked over to the open balcony thinking of the little ways Elrond had harmlessly poked fun at her friends. If any had noticed they hadn’t said anything, too busy fussing over the lack of meat and unsavory wine at dinner. Deciding to have a little fun and find something to quell the ache in her belly she quietly left the room.Walking along the moonwashed corridor, she passed a few guards walking in the opposite direction that only acknowledged her with a glance. She looked over her shoulder, watching them disappear down another hall. It’d be wise to follow and see if they had a specific route they followed but that would waste time. Besides, where was the fun without a little risk of being caught?“And where do you think you’re goin’?” questioned a familiar voice. Looking ahead, she locked eyes with Dwalin and smiled.“The baths. Care to join me?” she curled the tip of her tongue out the corner of her mouth. Surprise flickered across the dwarf’s face for a fleeting moment, entertaining her thoughts. He had stopped walking toward her.Was it from the unexpected response or the idea she might’ve been serious about him joining her? Now there was an idea that stirred something in her. She had no shame when it came to her body and had never been bothered by someone seeing her nude. She had her share of scars but he was a warrior and was bound to have several of his own; old soft ones faded from time and new ones still firm and reddish. Maybe another time. Tonight was meant for a different quest and she needed to focus.“I’m kidding. Though, we both could use a bath,” she teased, closing the space between them. “What’re you up to? I thought you and your brother went with Thorin to meet with Lord Elrond.”“Aye and Balin thought it wise to have me return and make sure none of you got into any trouble,” he crossed his arms.“Well, we’ll only get in trouble if we get caught.”“We?” He dropped his arms and turned as she walked past him.“Aye, unless you’re afraid of having your hand slapped by an elf,” she faced him, walking backward.“Not a chance,” he followed, “but tell me what you’re getting me into.”“Dinner did not leave a good impression on me. So I think we’re owed at least some decent wine, not the swill they served us. So to the kitchens we go.”“And you know where it is?”“I believe so. I saw some elves carrying the dishes from one,” she turned back around when Dwalin caught up to her.They tracked their way to the dining area with little difficulty and came across the building Faye believed was the kitchen; faint whiffs of savory bread and something sweet lingered around the windows and door. A low whine accompanied a sharp pain in her gut as it cramped, twisting and turning in defiance at being empty for so long.She reached for the handle and wrapped her fingers around it when two dark shapes entered her peripherals. From the side of the building, they stretched across the stone, steadily taking the shape of patrolling guards. Their steps were silent but the moon, climbing over lethargic clouds, had betrayed them.They were likely to be questioned why they were loitering around the kitchen and might even be escorted back to the others empty-handed. Worst yet, Dwalin likely wouldn’t accompany her on any detours in the future. She had to salvage this but only one idea came to mind that might deter the elves, and she had to hope Dwalin would roll with it.“What are-” Dwalin questioned as Faye spun to face him. His shoulders had already started tensing, raised closer to his ears, and his eyes narrowed.“Go with it,” she pressed her back to the cool stone wall and jerked him to her.His hands slapped against the stone, preventing himself from being pulled flush against her. It didn’t dissuade her from pressing her lips to his, silently noting how easily they melded against hers, soft and warm. His beard and mustache scratched her lightly, almost tickling her, and she wasn’t sure if she had parted her lips or if he had but the subtle flavor of tobacco filled her mouth. It felt as if minutes were ticking by as they embraced and to her surprise (and delight) she felt his hands grip her upper arms.Enraptured by the wave of heat that pumped through her, she’d nearly forgotten why she had kissed him. The abrupt noise of someone clearing their voice to their right broke them apart. They must’ve been convincing enough as the guards frowned, narrowed their eyes, and wrinkled their noses as if they smelled something foul.“Looking to join or just watch?” Faye snaked her arms around Dwalin’s shoulders, staring at the elves. It was the only encouragement they needed to quickly turn away and hurry back along their patrol. She and Dwalin watched silently as they entered a corridor and rounded a different building.Barely a second passed and Dwalin had jerked his hands from her and taken a step away from her. His eyes didn’t meet hers and she found herself smiling.“I didn’t think it was bad,” she returned to the door and pushed it open. Would they have had time to slip in before being discovered? Too late to know now and she’d gotten something enjoyable out of it.“I suppose I’ve had worse,” he responded, still not looking at her, eyes fixed on where they’d seen the patrol disappear. It was only when she tugged on his shirt that he looked at her.“Good to know. Next time will be better,” she winked and disappeared into the moonlit room. Large windows along the sides and skylights filled the room with a cool glow.“And what makes you think there’ll be a next time?”“A girl can dream. It’s hard resisting such a handsome dwarf…especially with such warm lips,” she looked around, avoiding the large table in the center of the room. Counters were covered with pots and pans of every imaginable size and containers of what she could only assume were spices. There was a door to the left she guessed would lead to the pantry or storage area but near the back was a hatch.Crossing the room, she pulled on the large metal handle and braced the wooden door against the counter. Stairs led down and along the wall were a series of mirrors and lenses that reflected and refracted the light filtering from the main room to light up the cellar.“Oooh down here,” she had already descended the stairs, grinning when she spotted the racks of bottles in the back. “Should have brought Dori. He’s probably got the most refined palate and would know which to get,” her fingers traced over the cool glass bottles, allowing intuition to dictate where they stopped. Heavy steps trailed down the stairs as Dwalin joined her.“The lads aren’t picky but we don’t need Dori to tell us what’s good,” he glanced around and frowned. A row of barrels were lined across one of the walls but all lacked lids and were filled with anything but beer or ale. If there was any in Rivendell it didn’t appear to be in this room. Even in the dim light, she could see the disappointment in his eyes.He stood beside her and pulled a random bottle from the rack, popped the cork, and took a mouthful. Her eyes and smile widened, watching the grimace flicker across his face before recorking the bottle and setting it back on its shelf. He grabbed another and repeated the offense before offering it for her to try.“Well, that’s one way to get back at them,” she took a mouthful and allowed it to flavor her tongue long enough to decide she liked it and set it aside.They continued sampling the wine until both their cheeks were flushed and the effects of spirit and empty stomachs became more evident. The banter that emerged was light and teasing like laying in a field of long grass as a gentle breeze ghosted past. They playfully bumped and shoved each other as they fought over who’d sample the next bottle first.“Okay, okay, I think that’s enough for tonight,” she stuttered between a fit of giggles. “They’re gonna wonder where we are.” After a few uncoordinated attempts, she shoved the cork back into the bottle she held. There had to be enough collected for them to return to their companions.“We’ll need somethin’ to carry them in,” Dwalin stated, holding onto the edge of one of the racks for support. His eyes glazed over the collection of bottles they’d deemed worthy for dwarves and looked around the room. Spotting an empty crate near the barrels he retrieved it and they carefully placed the bottles in it.“Ya got it?” she asked as he easily picked it up.“Aye. Doubt you could walk in a straight line. Don’t want to lose them if you fall over.“Shut up. I’m fine,” she took a step and realized he may have been right. The world undulated and rocked as though she were standing on the deck of a ship. Closing her eyes, she could smell the salty air and hear the wayward cries of gulls. It had been erroneous to not pillage the pantry first. “I just need some food.”Faye opened her eyes and placed a hand on the wall using it to support herself as she carefully made her way up the stairs with Dwalin on her heels. She could sense the amused smile on his face and only imagine the jabs he wanted to inflict on her.“I feel your smile! Just say it,” her cheeks heated as she leaned against the counter, waiting for a tidal wave of dizziness to wash over her.“Didn’t take ye for such a lightweight is all,” he set the crate down on the counter by her.“I drank more than you because you couldn’t stop coughin’ after you choked on that one wine.”“I started coughin’ on the wine because ya hit me in the jambags when ya tripped over your own two feet!” He shot back.“How do ya know I wasn’t jus’ tryin’ to cop a feel?”“With a fist?”“Fine! I tripped. But I still drank more ‘cause of it,” she waved her hand dismissively. “Jus’ wait here for a minute.” Feeling more steadied, she walked to the door they had passed and peeked inside. Dried herbs hung from the ceiling like low-hanging branches, offering themselves. A savory and earthy scent filled the room, tempting her to enter and take whatever she desired.It was a large room with shelves overflowing with lively fruits and vegetables that begged to be picked up for consumption. She picked a few grapes off a bunch and plopped them into her mouth as she picked up an empty canvas bag from a shelf. Slowly, it grew heavy with everything from potatoes to oranges, anything that wasn’t green.As she made her way to the back she found what she originally sought; salted and smoked meat. Several strips, chunks, and jars were filched from the shelves until nothing else could be stuffed into the bag. Barely a dent was made in the food stores but she had to wonder how long before a company of dwarves ate the elves out of house and home. Only time would tell and she couldn’t imagine they’d stay that long. Cradling the bag like a precious child, she returned to Dwalin, feeling her buzz ebb away.“They had meat?” Dwalin asked, standing up straight. His eyes had honed in on a stray sausage link dangling from the opening.“Of course. I may be wrong but I am fairly certain Lord Elrond has been playin’ lil’ jokes. Harmless ones that’ll just annoy you,” she admitted, shifting the bag in her arms. “Would you not do the same if they had to stay in your home? Oh! Ya know what might annoy them? A meal without utensils or tellin’ them the furnaces that heat the bath are broken.”“I’d do better than that,” he picked up the crate of wine bottles and walked toward the exit.“Oh yeah? Then let us return to the others and see how creative you are.”
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Chapter 7Dwalin and Faye’s arrival with spirits and meat earned them a hero’s welcome from the company; even the deep frown on Thorin’s face dissipated. What tension and disappointment remained bled out of tired muscles as a symphony of sizzling meat and clinking glasses echoed in the moonlit room.With their spirits lifted and bellies expanding, belts loosened to accommodate the temporary growth, the questions began. A flurry of them was shot like a series of arrows at the pair, wanting to know: the location of the pantry and wine cellar, what else was in them, how they found it in the first place, did they find them by accident or on purpose, and so on.Faye briefly explained her suspicion of Elrond playing little pranks and how she and Dwalin had acquired everything, leaving out the part where they kissed. She had no shame, having enjoyed it, but she wasn’t sure if Dwalin cared to kiss and tell. The last thing she wanted was to ruin their budding friendship.“So you mean to tell me they made a joke of us?” Nori asked, casting Faye a sideways glance, “And this was all you two managed to get?”“I thought at least one of you would have caught on after they sat us at the lowest tables they probably had available” Faye admitted, taking a large gulp of wine before offering the bottle to Bofur next to her. “And if we’d taken more they’d notice and lock down the kitchen.”“If a little lock is gonna deter you then I’ll come along next time and handle it. I’ll show you how good I am with my hands,” he grinned“That won’t be necessary,” Dwalin swiftly chimed in.“Oh? Gonna kick down the door instead?” Nori asked.“No, but Faye and I already discussed ways to pay them back for their hospitality.”“I suggested bathing in the fountain nude. It would be quite the shock and they’d probably give us anything we need to leave sooner,” Faye smirked.“And would you be joinin’ in on that?” Bofur asked, leaning over until their shoulders touched. Her skin warmed at the contact, tempting her to lean into him.“No, but only because I don’t trust that one of you won’t relieve yourself while still in there,” she dropped her head to rest on his for a moment before sitting up straight.Her fingers twitched as she fought the desire to hook her arm around his, intertwining their fingers. Around them, the ache of drowning in a cold sea of lonesomeness disappeared. Touching, even in a friendly manner, cemented the security she longed for but also made her careless. She did not know if she would depart Rivendell with them; that alone was enough to keep her from acting impulsively.“Now that’s a shame,” Bofur shook his head in disbelief, his smile betraying the truth of his mock disappointment, “to think we’re so uncivilized we’d soil the water we’re bathin’ in.”“He’s right,” Kili said, adding another log to the fire, “that’s for when we’re gettin’ out!”Laughter and boyish cheers followed the statement like a pack of howling wolves during a full moon. As bottles emptied, their merriment continued late into the night with songs and stories. Sleep eventually took them all when the food and wine were completely depleted.
~~~
The following morning, Faye woke with a throbbing headache, little hammers pounding relentlessly at her temples; too much wine without water. Golden light seared her eyes as she attempted to open them, having fallen asleep by the open balcony. She inhaled deeply, ignoring the weight on her abdomen as she rubbed her eyes until spots of color flashed behind her lids.“Mornin’ already?” Bofur slurred, voice still heavy with sleep. Arms reached across her torso as he stretched, his hat shifting to cover his eyes. “Best sleep I’ve had in a while.”“Glad to know I make a comfortable pillow. But I can imagine a few ways to have made it more enjoyable.”“And are ya willin’ to share these ideas?,” Bofur lifted his hat to peer at her from the corner of his eye.“Not in the company of others,” she winked, placing her hands on the ground to push herself into a seated position. Bofur didn’t budge, allowing his head to slide onto her thighs.“Well, that can be arranged.”“Don’t tempt me,” before she could think, she lifted his hat, leaned down, and kissed his forehead. Her eyes widened as she sat up, her hands shoving the hat back over his head as she cleared her throat. “Now, help me wake the others for breakfast.”
~~~
Breakfast went smoother than dinner, the cooks having noticed the missing items, made certain to provide proper sustenance for their guests. Less of the meal soared overheads and instead made it to growling stomachs. Toward the end, Faye overheard Balin and Thorin speaking about moon runes or something like that. All she knew was their stay would be extended for several more days. As the food diminished, they gradually rose, separating to try and find ways to fill the time.
~~~
The day was long and uneventful. Boredom dogged her relentlessly, nipping at her heels as she walked along the breezeways, searching for where the dwarves had disappeared. She had a hunch some may have gone to the blacksmith to sharpen their blades for the quest ahead.As eager as she was to leave Rivendell, she couldn’t help but admire the elaborate swoops and delicate curves of elven architecture. They were meticulously carved into whimsical designs and sturdy enough to stand against the persistent gnawing of time.Memories of her youth returned to her like the lyrics of an old lullaby sung by a loving parent. Her mother appeared in most, leading her through the halls of their home, tree branches and roots manipulated into creating intricate designs like those in Rivendell. Unlike her, her mother strode gracefully along the paths, other elves often turning to watch her pass, auburn hair fluttering behind her like fire. She had always looked flawlessly beautiful.Bitterness flooded her as she remembered how quickly the other elves' expressions shifted when their eyes fell on her. At a young age, when she cared, she tried engaging in their conversations only for them to barely offer her a glance and continue as if she hadn’t spoken. It was worse after her mother’s passing; their lips curling as if a foul odor accompanied her wherever she went.Try as she might, she struggled not to be bothered by it but it gnawed at her like a ravenous animal. Her lips tightened into a thin line as she grabbed her mother’s pendant, twisting it idly as she walked.Crossing a bridge, she noticed lord Elrond strolling in her direction and held her breath, waiting for the familiar contempt to flicker in his eyes. However, it never came and instead, he gave the smallest nods of acknowledgment and came to a stop.“Saerien.”Hearing her mother’s name was enough to encourage her to see what else he might say. A part of her wanted to keep walking in hopes of escaping a conversation she feared may dredge up more bitterness but she needed to know how he knew it.“That was your mother’s name was it not?” Elrond asked, eyes similar to hers only his were heavy with centuries of loss and pain. “She wore the same necklace you wear now.”“Yes,” Faye’s voice was meek, embarrassing her. “How did you know her?”Elrond was quiet for a moment, regarding her. Something perplexing shimmered in his eyes; something that made him hesitate, a secret that had her throat tightening. A soft whispering breeze tugged playfully at their long hair before he finally spoke again.“She visited once and asked if she and her daughter could live here,” his hands slipped behind his back as he looked across the valley. “You look a lot like her and she too would twirl that necklace just as you are now with the same wayward look in your eyes.”Faye was silent, unease seeping beneath her skin.“This was the last place she visited. You know what happened, don’t you?” She asked.The elf lord continued staring out at the valley, the corner of his lips tugging down ever so slightly. His head slowly turned away from the breathtaking view to settle on her, brows slightly furrowed.“Did they not tell you?” He inquired.“No, they only gave me her necklace and told me she had died,” she replied. A bitterness coated her tongue and swallowing became difficult. “How did it happen?”“Your mother was accompanying some of my men on a patrol to see more of the valley when they were ambushed by orcs from the Misty Mountains,” he began, eyes boring into her as if searching for permission to continue. She could hardly breathe, let alone nod, for him to continue, but she had to assume he understood.“I believe they came down in search of supplies or perhaps to take travelers for slaves or worse. She refused to retreat and held the line until reinforcements came. They were able to slay the orcs but her injuries were too grave to save her. All she asked was for her necklace to be passed to you. I am glad to see it reached you.”The silence that followed was palpable, suffocating. A weight was lifted from her heart but a hole remained.Her mother had always appeared at peace and happy with their forest kin. Had she ever felt at home there? She remembered her mother leaving on assignments to act as a guard for trades and visits to other elven and human settlements or to clear the forest of dark creatures, disappearing for days without a word. Faye had always assumed she’d been forced to go. Now she was left to wonder if she always volunteered.“Thank you for telling me,” she bowed her head, “and for ensuring her necklace was returned to me.”Elrond returned the nod.Her eyes fell to the ground, words currently escaping her. She did not want to be rude but what more could she say when all she wanted was to flee her mind?“I see this has offered some closure for you but also opened a different wound. If you wish to speak of it I will offer what wisdom I can and if you need time I will be here,” he offered.“Yes, I think I need time to allow it to sink in.”“Do not think you must carry whatever burden weighs on you alone. You have made friends with the dwarves you travel with and here you are a welcomed guest,” Elrond reminded before smiling slightly. “I believe you were heading to see your companions and do not wish to keep you from them.”“Thank you again,” she managed a smile and parted ways with the elf lord. Continuing her path to the blacksmith’s workshop, she saw she had been correct in her earlier assumptions. Several dwarves were present honing their weapons as sweat trickled down the sides of their faces.Watching them work was almost mesmerizing, masters of their craft swinging heavy hammers and sharpening metal on a grindstone, sending sparks flying. Mind still racing with thoughts of her mother, she welcomed the distraction as she approached them.
~~~
That night, sleep would not come to her as questions flooded her mind. Had her mother only returned to her kin in hopes her daughter would feel like she belonged somewhere? To escape the cold grasp of feeling alone even when surrounded by others? She wondered how her mother would feel knowing the apple had not fallen far from the tree.Questions multiplied and festered in her mind like an untreated wound until she felt like screaming. Bolting upright, Faye ran her hands up and down her face before sighing heavily. She stilled her hands over her face for several beats before dropping them to the ground like leaden weights. Pushing herself to her feet, she stepped over the sleeping bodies and left the room.In the open air, she felt mildly better but her mind still raced and she longed to run. Running brought a sense of peace to her as she could turn off her thoughts but this was no place to do it. She wandered through Rivendell, trying to think of another way to exhaust herself that wouldn’t draw any unnecessary attention.The baths came to mind. Bathing wouldn’t exhaust her but she could at least submerge herself and scream and the heat may help her relax enough to fall asleep. Pivoting on her heels, she turned to return the way she’d come.Turning a corner, Faye collided with a solid form and felt large callused hands grip her arms. A small sigh escaped her parted lips as she stared into Dwalin’s eyes.“Where are you off to in such a rush?” Dwalin asked, releasing her.“The baths. Fancy joining me?” Faye asked with a smirk. Elrond’s earlier words came to mind and while she found them wise she did not believe she could take his advice quite yet. It was easier to suppress sour thoughts and feelings when others were around and she wasn’t ready to bare her bleeding heart.“Scared you’ll drown if ya go alone?” He crossed his arms, tone light.“Maybe. What are you scared of? Getting a little wet? Seeing too much skin? Would that fluster you?” She taunted.“No,” his arms dropped to his sides as he furrowed his brows, “I’m not some young lad that turns red at the sight of someone in their smalls. I reckon I’ve got at least a hundred years on ya.”“Then join me.”A brief silence fell over them before he finally sighed loudly and stepped to the side, gesturing for her to lead the way. She couldn’t fight the overzealous smile that broke across her face as he allowed her to link her arm with his without tensing or pulling away.Reaching the bathroom and pushing up the doors, they were greeted with a burst of warm air. It was a spacious room with two large pools that stretched to the far wall, excess water flowed over the edge and down the cliffside it overlooked. Moonlight filtered in from the large archways at the back, illuminating the wisps of steam rising from the water’s surface.“This is almost romantic, don’t you think?” she teased as she closed the door behind her.“Is that what this is about?” Dwalin asked with an amused tone, closing his side as well. “Wined me the first night and now you’ve brought me here.”“Uncovered my plan, have you?” Faye laughed. “Not the original plan but if it is working then you won’t hear complaints from me. You also came willingly both times,” peeling off her shirt, she walked toward the pool on the right and stepped on the backs of her boots to wiggle each foot free.“Aye, I suppose you are right about that.”“Maybe it’s been your plan I’ve just made it easier for you.” Faye grinned as he grunted something under his breath. She listened to the clanging of his boots as the metal tips clattered on the ground as she removed the lacing on her breastband. Once loose enough, she pulled the rest free with a quick motion, sighing as her breasts were freed. There was something wonderful to say about not having them confined. The garment was abandoned and she started unbuckling her belt and unlacing her breeches.“Then again, you didn’t seem to care for our kiss,” she turned to look at him.“Who said I didn’t care for it?” He asked.“You haven’t mentioned it and wouldn’t look at me afterward.”“I wasn’t expectin’ it. I can’t say it’s somethin’ I have dealt with before.”“What do you think now, then?” She asked, shoving her breeches and smalls down to her ankles. Dwalin didn’t answer, eyes fixated on her lower half. “I thought you said you weren’t some young lad.”“I’m not. I was lookin’ at your tattoo,” he admitted, eyes following the winding coils of the serpent from its head at her hip down to her knee.“I guess they are rare, especially on my kind,” she stuck out her leg, turning it to admire it herself. “One of my old companions was a dwarf who specialized in them. I let him practice something besides his typical work on me and I think it came out nice. Always a nice surprise for people who see it.” Faye grinned and stepped down into the bath, sighing softly.The soothing waters compelled her to sink til the waterline reached her jaw. Pushing off the smooth bottom she swam toward the opposite end, looking at the small stacks of towels placed neatly on nearby benches. Reaching the end, she watched the water flow down and meet with one of the rivers below before placing her feet on the wall and pushing back toward the other sideAt this point, Dwalin had finished stripping and joined her in the pool, resting on the submerged ledge. Her eyes roamed over his exposed chest. As she expected, his chest and torso were covered in dark hair and scars, old and new. An urge to trace over them with her fingers and lips came over her but she settled for staring.“Now you’re the one starin’,” he placed his elbows on the ledge behind him, leaning back.“Can’t blame a girl,” Faye stopped in front of him and backed up until she sat on the ledge opposite him. A pleasant aroma momentarily drew her attention and glancing to her right she spotted a basket of washcloths, and various oils and soaps. “Though if I keep looking I fear I won’t be able to keep my hands to myself.”“You say that like it’s bad.”Her eyes snapped to him, feeling a throb between her thighs at the way he looked at her. His eyes were daring, challenging her.“Well, you’ve been rather quick to brush me off until recently.”“Aye, and it hasn’t deterred you yet,” he was quiet for a moment, “Ya aren’t like others. Even our burglar and most of our kin didn’t want to join but ya seem determined to help for whatever reason.”It explained why he had become more amicable but not why he appeared open to some play. Perhaps he needed a distraction as much as she did and what better way to blow some steam? She had warned herself against getting too entangled but she wasn’t one to look a gift horse in the mouth. Faye moved to him, hands reaching out to lightly touch his knees and gauge his response. When he didn’t flinch she slid her hands onto his knees, smiling coyly.“You make a valid point, but I advise you to be careful with your words, Mr. Dwalin,” her hands moved further up his thighs. A sigh escaped her when she felt his fingers brush along her hips, drawing her closer.“I will remember that for later,” he said.A deep groan rumbled in his chest as she ran her fingers through his chest hair, fingers mapping out the scars of a warrior. His hands moved up her sides until his thumbs brushed the underside of her breasts, gently caressing the yielding flesh.Sighing softly, she arched her chest toward him, encouraging him to explore more of her. Faye gasped as his hand moved up, rough fingers brushing over the soft, sensitive flesh before squeezing experimentally and then a bit harder. His thumbs stroked her areola in lazy circles, sending little bursts of heat along her spine, before pinching and tugging her pert nipples.“Fuck,” she gasped, feeling a spike in her arousal. Lowering her hips to straddle his lap, she felt the tip of his hardening cock brush her thigh and shuddered. A breath caught in her throat as she rocked her hips forward, feeling more of him.His groping intensified, becoming rougher as he leaned forward to nip at her exposed neck and collarbone, teeth leaving red marks where he bit down. An agonizingly sweet bolt of pleasure surged straight to her core as one of his hands dove down between her legs. Her right hand gripped his bicep while the other snaked up and around to tangle in his hair as one of his fingers brushed between her lips.“Dwalin,” her voice is breathless, desperate, and full of an indescribable longing for more.“Get out and lean over the bench,” he ordered, withdrawing his hand from her. Faye stood, rivulets racing down her body like the surrounding waterfalls. She did as she was bid, stepping out of the bath to mount the bench on her hands and knees. A towel cushioned the smooth wood beneath her as she patiently waited for him.It did not take long for Dwalin to join her, water sloshing as he hauled himself out to take his place behind her. His warm hands roamed over the soft swell of her ass, spreading her as she bowed her back and raised her hips to expose more. Impatience started to gnaw at her, eager to feel him inside her, and was quickly fed as a jolt of heat rippled through her at the first lash of his tongue, trailing up the length of her cunt.“Ooh God! I didn’t —” her words died in her throat, replaced with a moan.“Couldn’t resist. It was beggin’ to be tasted,” Dwalin replied, spreading her with his thumb and finger.He began with long, agonizingly slow laps, tongue delving into her wet entrance in teasing sweeps before honing on the most sensitive part of her. What came next was a frenzied hunger as he pulled her closer to him, licking and sucking her clit as she cried out pitifully.Faye tossed her head, long waterlogged locks slapping her back as she gripped the bench tighter. One of his thick fingers slipped inside her, curling as it pumped in and out of her before a second joined it.“You’ve got a tight cunt,” he growled, breath hot against her thighs.“Imagine how good it’ll feel wrapped around your cock,” she managed between her gasps.“No need to imagine,” his fingers withdrew as he repositioned himself behind her. Reaching between her thighs, Faye spread herself as he rubbed the tip of his cock along her cunt, coating it in her arousal. Her middle finger slipped down to stroke her clit as he slowly pushed into her inch by tantalizing inch until he was halfway in.“Please, don’t stop now,” she begged, savoring how the sensation of being stretched and filled.“Didn’t plan to,” he grabbed her hips and pulled out until only the tip was inside. There wasn’t a second for her to complain before he snapped his hips forward, completely burying himself to the hilt.Faye cried out, toes curling as he reached deeper than she thought possible. Chasing the pleasure, she met him thrust for thrust as he started slowly before gradually picking up his pace. The relentless rhythms of his thrusts were too much to keep up with, each obscene slap of flesh echoing in the room and out into the valley.“Durin’s beard, your fuckin’ cunt,” he cursed, one of his hands reaching around her hip to knock her hand aside to stroke her clit himself. “I’ll be the one to make you cum.”“Dwalin! W-wait!” she gasped as the muscles in her abdomen and inner thighs flexed and grew taut with his merciless stroking. Her back arched and pleading words degenerated into whispering whimpers.Her pleasure intertwined around her spine and coiled in her belly, all-consuming. Every nerve lit up, bursting beneath her skin like fireworks as she climaxed with an unprecedented ecstasy. Her mind grew hazy, every known word obscured by fog as her cunt tightened around his cock.The cry that left her was inhuman, nails clawing at the wooden bench as her arms trembled, struggling to keep her up as he continued fucking her. Even as her limbs became boneless she willed herself to remain upright.“Almost,” he growled through gritted teeth as her silken walls fluttered and clenched around him. His thrusts went deeper and harder as he reached his climax, and for a split second, she thought he might pull out. But with one final stroke, he bottomed out and filled her with his cum.Faye’s arms finally gave out, her chest falling to the damp towel beneath her as Dwalin’s hands idly stroked where his fingers had dug into her hips, likely leaving bruises that would appear in the days to come. The thought made her smile, a reminder of their tryst. They remained silent, sated pants fighting off the silence until he finally pulled out of her.An ache already grew within her at the loss of his warmth and the emptiness at his departure. A keening whimper escaped her lips as she slowly straddled the bench, biting her lip as the towel brushed against her sore cunt.“Come on, back into the bath,” he spoke, offering her his hand.“Gonna wash me too?” She asked, standing on fawn-like legs.“Don’t know if we should risk it,” he smirked. “I think once is enough this time. Surprise the elves didn’t come to throw cold water on us with how loud you were gettin’.”“There’s still time,” Faye smiled, getting back into the hot water with his help. She sat on the ledge, letting the heat of the water penetrate her skin and soothe the aches in her body. Looking to her right she spotted the basket of oils and soaps and rifled through it until she came across something that wasn’t sickly sweet.She poured a bit onto one of the clothes and gently slid it over her body, cleaning the sweat from her skin before dunking it beneath the water to clean between her legs. Once all of her had been scrubbed she slipped off the ledge and sank into the water until it reached her neck.“Well, I don’t think I’ll have any trouble falling asleep tonight,” she smiled, closing her eyes.“If all you need is a roll in the sheets to sleep then I don’t mind helpin’ again,” he closed his eyes as well, resting his head back on the cool tile.“Careful, I may take you up on that offer.”“I wouldn’t be the only one,” he said quietly, almost to himself.“Would that bother you?” Faye cracked open her left eye to look at him.“No, I have no claim over you,” he replied. His eyes remained closed but his brows had furrowed slightly.“Well, unless someone else offers or you change your mind about your claim then it’ll just be you,” she glided through the water to him. Her hands found his thighs, fingers running over the dark hair. “But don’t think it’s only when I can’t sleep.”Dwalin’s eyes opened at her touch and the hungry glint still lingering sent a shiver through her. She sank into the water, resisting the desire to dip below and see how long she could hold her breath after taking him into her mouth. Another time.“Now you need to be careful with the offers you’re makin’,” he warned, a smile playing at his lips.“There’s no fun in being careful,” she kissed the tip of his nose and pushed away. There was no need to be greedy as they needed to remain in Rivendell for several more days. She had a feeling this wouldn’t be their last time together.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
A little over a week had passed since their arrival in Rivendell and since her and Dwalin’s moment in the baths. They had shared a few more moments but to Faye, it felt strictly casual. Neither had initiated a kiss nor was one shared at any point during or after they had one another.A part of her was a little disappointed, longing for something deeper. She had been drawn to him at their first meeting and while she didn’t know why, she thought she may know now. He was attractive to her, not in a conventional way like how maidens imagined their knights in shining armor with cleanly shaven jaws, perfect golden hair, and a willingness to lay down their life to protect the realm but in a raw and unapologetic way.He was a true warrior; battle-worn with scars from his victories and fierce eyes that held the fire and ice needed to survive a bloody battle. She enjoyed tracing his scars, making up stories or guesses about how he received them, and learning the truth from him. His hands were rough and calloused but recently she wanted to hold them, lace their fingers, and talk about everything and nothing.What if he didn’t feel the same? She had chosen to lay with Dwalin because she thought he wouldn’t develop any deep sentiments and now she was disappointed by the thought. So what if he didn’t? That was the hope, wasn’t it? She still didn’t know what would happen when Thorin’s company left Rivendell or if she’d be able to tag along.It was for the best. But what if he felt the same and kept his distance as well? Not likely, she quickly thought. He had never attempted to hide his distrust of her when they first met nor did he act as if he didn’t like her around the others. He still smiled, joked, and made taunting comments whether they were together or with the others. How might things change if she grew close with someone else?She and Bofur had taken a liking to each other from the beginning. They had developed the nightly habit of whispering before bed until they fell asleep, typically with one using the other as a pillow. He was receptive to her hugs and touches, encouraging her to continue. Bofur wasn’t the only one to accept and return her affections, but there was something different about him.With him, it was like a cool salve finally being applied to a raw and open wound, soothing her while leaving her starved for the next application. Despite this, she had yet to try instigating anything more, still hesitant about what would become of them if they engaged in something. Which was funny, considering Dwalin left her desiring something more.For the last two days, she had noticed his gaze lingered on her and Bofur when they were together, especially if they were laughing and hanging on each other. There wasn’t some sad expression like a kicked puppy or longing for what he couldn’t have but something more enigmatic. Sometimes his brows would furrow, not in anger though, and any time they caught each other’s eye he’d look away. It made her question if there was something to it or if her hope for something more had her reading into his expression too deeply.He was known to be the most ornery with a face that demanded you to fuck off and she’d never know for certain until she confronted him. All she needed was the right time and place; preferably when she could confront him alone and pull the hidden disdain to the surface.With how often she and Bofur hovered around each other it wouldn’t be a problem. At the thought, she glanced over from the corner of her eye. Bofur leaned against the banister, mouth moving as he talked but not a word made it to her ears, her thoughts deafening everything around her. Pursing her lips, she looked down at the level below them, watching the water flow under the arching bridge and dwelling on what she might say to Dwalin when she did confront him.“Faye?” The concern in Bofur’s voice was enough to draw her from her thoughts. Turning her head, she saw he was frowning. He had been talking to her and she couldn’t even guess what it was about.“Sorry,” she apologized, interlacing her fingers to keep them from fidgeting as her forearms rested on the balustrade’s banister.“You alright?”“Mostly. I have something on my mind,” she admitted and looked away from him. Sighing, she stood up and placed her palms where her forearms had been. “I didn’t mean to ignore you and I hope you’ll forgive me.”“Of course,” he smiled, the corners of his eyes crinkling. “Do you want to talk about it?”“Later perhaps. What were you saying before?”“Nothin’ really. I just said it almost makes you want to stay?” He looked out across the valley, her eyes following his. The sun’s light fell across the land, shimmering on a river of gold, trees like torches providing warmth and safety from the cold shadows around them. It was tranquil and every time a breeze passed through the leaves would sing.“Not for me,” she looked back at him. “It has been nice to sleep without fear of an attack in the middle of the night but it is too quiet and peaceful. It gives my mind too much freedom to think and wander which has never been good. It’s one of the many reasons I enjoy everyone in the company. There is always someone making noise or getting into trouble. Even when everyone is asleep someone is snoring or sleeptalking.”Silence gave her mind a chance to sail toward storm clouds and dark water. It was easy to get lost, sucked into a maelstrom of mistakes and failures and everything she could have and should have done. She had drowned more than once in those black waters but having something to focus on allowed her to surge forward.“Can’t argue there. You’ll never have a dull moment with us around,” Bofur replied, his smile infectious. She returned it with the same vigor and leaned toward him.“The only way they could get me to stay is if the company remained. However, I would wager we will outstay our welcome before the crescent moon arrives. I think we may be the first to stress the elves enough to turn their hair silver,” she laughed.Movement from below caught her attention. Leaning over the railing, she watched Nori cross the bridge at a brisk walk. It wouldn’t have raised any alarm bells had it not been for one of Elrond’s guards following behind him. Faye recalled the first time they had conversed, swapping stories of narrow escapes after swiping something off someone, and couldn’t help but wonder if he had decided to try his luck in Rivendell.“Dwarf,” the guard called, catching up to Nori as he reached the other side. “I need to speak with you.”She had no doubt he had filched something but couldn’t even begin to guess what it might be. Looking over, she could see Bofur grimacing as he watched the scene as well.Their hosts had been gracious enough to supply anything they needed so she had to guess stealing here was a game for Nori. It was hard to clean sticky fingers and from what she had surmised one of the reasons he had tagged along was because his sticky fingers were getting him in some hot water back in the Blue Mountains.“Want to be my accomplice?” She asked, pushing away from the decorative balustrade.“You have a plan?” Bofur inquired, following her lead with a widening grin.“Maybe. Go down the stairs behind you. If you distract the guard and get him to look at you long enough I can see if Nori took anything and take it off him if he did,” she started backing away, heading across the long patio.Faye turned around and quickly searched for another set of stairs. Seeing none, she walked to a spot on the terrace shaded by two tall trees rooted on the lower platform. The large trunks would obscure her descent along with the column of an archway.Not seeing any prying eyes, she swung her legs over the railing and carefully climbed down. As soon as her feet touched the ground she peeked around the tree and saw Bofur behind the guard, his finger to his lips as he looked at Nori. Bofur’s eyes met hers and he cleared his throat, dropping his hand to his side.“What’s goin’ on here?” Bofur asked, drawing the guard’s attention.As soon as his head turned, Faye dashed toward Nori’s side as quickly and quietly as possible. Faye slapped Nori’s shoulder with the back of her hand twice before holding it palm up. He jumped at first but looked at her hand and then the guard before reaching into his vest.“Some items have gone missing,” the guard hesitated, staring at Bofur. With the guard still distracted, Nori withdrew a handful of dining utensils and placed them in Faye’s hand. “I was directed to ask your companion if he had seen them on the table or if they were missing prior.”“Sounds like you’re accusin’ him of stealin’.” Bofur crossed his arms.“That, I did not say. I was informed he was one of the last ones in the dining hall,” the guard replied.Faye slipped the silverware into her boots, grimacing when the fork’s prongs poked against her calve when she took two large steps back. The guard turned back around, his brows furrowed, eyes focusing on Faye as she casually approached and stopped beside Nori. As far as she could tell, he hadn’t realized she had already aided her friend.“Sure sounded like you were accusing him,” Faye crossed her arms and then looked at Nori. “Do you know what items he speaks of?”“He told me it was some silverware right before you two arrived but I left mine at the table. Honest! You can trust me as much as you can trust her,” he thumbed at Faye.It became difficult to keep from smiling and she resorted to biting the inside of her cheek to keep a straight face. It was harder when she saw Bofur, wide-eyed, glancing between her, Nori, and the back of the elf’s head.“That must mean he didn’t notice if they were there or not. And honestly, why would he want Elvish silverware? A bit too dainty for how they eat,” Faye said, keeping her arms crossed.The guard was unmoved, lips tightening into a thin line as his eyes bore into the pair. It was a weak argument, even by her standards but she feared anything too elaborate might make him even more suspicious. It was also the first thing that came to mind.“Alright, then search him,” she gestured at Nori with both hands. It was a dangerous game, especially because it was likely he had something else on him.“Whose side are you on?” Nori asked, snapping his head to look at her. Rolling his eyes, he faced the guard and held his arms open.“That is not necessary,” the guard sighed and held up a hand, “I was only to ask if you had seen them on your way out. I apologize if I made you believe any accusation of theft was being made. They may have just been misplaced. Enjoy the rest of your evening,” he turned on his heels, nearly running into Bofur before sidestepping with the grace only an elf had.“Try lookin’ under the tables, no tellin’ what’s under there,” Bofur called before joining Faye and Nori.Faye watched as the guard strode away, long hair billowing behind him. Only when he had left her line of sight did she dare to lean down and remove the knife, fork, and spoon from her boot. She offered the cutlery to Nori with half a smirk.“Really? You nearly got in trouble over silverware?” She asked. “Not even decent ones either.” She added as Nori took them and stuffed them into a pocket on the inside of his vest.“Mine were in my saddle bag. I didn’t have time to grab it before we started runnin’ from the wargs. Figured we’d be leavin’ soon and I would need some for the rest of the way. I’m not an animal,” he grinned, patting the spot where they rested.“And if you asked for some I bet they would have given you a set. Probably more,” Faye crossed her arms.“Where’s the fun in askin’ for stuff?” He asked. “If they haven’t caught me yet they won’t.”“Looked to me like they almost did,” Bofur argued with a casual smile. He glanced at Faye and in unison, they looked at Nori.“I’ve gotten out of worse before,” he dismissed them with his hand.He might have told the truth about his prior escapes but she wondered if he had done any in Rivendell yet. None of the other dwarves had complained about being stopped by a guard but that didn’t mean more items hadn’t disappeared.Thinking of her own experiences, she would guess he had pocketed more items but was now purposely trying to increase the stakes of getting caught. There was a thrill that came with the risk, like the first lick of heat from a blazing fire on a cold winter’s night, rejuvenating.“What else have you taken?” Her fingers tapped idly at her sides, wondering how close to the fire Nori was teetering.“Just some souvenirs. Nothin’ they’ll miss,” Nori looked at them from the corner of his eyes as they started walking.“Don’t let your brother find out,” Bofur warned. “He was just tellin’ me and Dwalin how he thought this quest was provin’ good for ya. Hadn’t seen ya take anythin’.”Nori snorted, running his hand over the middle prong of his braided beard with a devious smirk. His gaze remained forward as they walked toward a flight of stairs that’d take them to the next level.“He never approved, even when we were young and we needed somethin’,” Nori frowned briefly before a large grin spread across his face. “He’s always grieved me more than anyone else and always tried to get me to return whatever I swiped. He won’t have nothin’ to complain about so long as neither of you say anythin’.” Nori stopped when they reached the top of the stairs to look at them.“We are accomplices now. He won’t hear it from us,” Faye wrapped her arm around Bofur’s shoulders and pulled him to her side. “Right?”“Aye,” Bofur’s arm wrapped her as they shared a grin. Looking back at Nori, he pointed a finger at him. “But don’t’cha go gettin’ into more trouble.”“Last time it’ll happen here. Like I said, just needed them for when we leave. We got a long way to go,” he held up his hands defensively. “Besides, I think Dwalin has started to suspect what I’m up to and he isn’t someone I want to piss off.” Nori gestured with his head behind Faye and Bofur. They looked over their shoulders to see Dwalin straddling a bench on the other side of the large terrace, sharpening one of his axes on a whetstone.The moment her eyes met his he glanced down, sliding the blade across the stone. They owed each other nothing but it felt like a knot had just formed in her stomach. She wanted to pull away from Bofur but resisted the urge, not wanting to alert him or Nori to anything. Instead, she looked away from him.“Balin mentioned he was broodin’ more than usual,” Nori commented.“Think it’s just bein’ stuck here or somethin’ else?” Bofur asked, looking at Nori. “We could always ask though the chances of him openin’ up are low. Tried askin’ the other day and got the usual grumblin’.”“I can try seein’ if he’ll talk with me. Try some feminine charm,” she batted her lashes and they all laughed. He was not one to fall for feminine charm, not hers anyway. If she had to guess, her determination and willingness to aid them won her any respect.“He has started warmin’ up to ya since the first night here,” Nori smirked. It’d been said innocently but the glint in his eyes hinted that he had already guessed something more had been going on.“Well, I need to ask him somethin’ anyway. So it works in my favor,” she squeezed Bofur’s arm reassuringly before letting go.Nori quirked an eyebrow and smiled as he said: “Your funeral if it’s worse.”“Ha. Burn my body if I somehow upset him that much,” she joked, “I do not imagine he’ll speak with me but if I find out anything I will let you know. He may be more willing if you two aren’t loitering around as well.” It was a relief when both agreed.Faye crossed her arms and waited for them to carry on their way. Her heart began to race as she turned to face Dwalin, noting he didn’t bother to look up from his task. She dropped her arms to her sides and walked to him. It needed to be done and there couldn’t be a better opportunity.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Walking toward Dwalin oddly felt like a heavy burden, each step heavier than the last until she felt as if the world’s weight rested on her shoulders. There was no reason for her to be nervous about talking with him, especially with how freely she blurted out her thoughts without fear of repercussions.However, this was different. She had become mindful of what she said and did around the company and wanted them to like her. At least enough to allow her to travel with them after they left. Thorin seemed the hardest to impress, having dismissed her several times during their first meeting, but even now they had barely spoken more than a word or two. Dwalin had been the same in the beginning but now talking with him was easy as they made harmless jokes about one another, playfully bantered, and of course, they had given into carnal desires more than once.She could do this. Either it’d all work out and she fretted over nothing or it didn’t and then… Then what? Only Iluvatar knew and she didn’t have time to try and overthink a million different scenarios that likely wouldn’t even come to fruition.Thankfully, she wouldn’t have time to overthink it much longer. Each sharp scrape of metal grinding against the stone was fast but steady, almost matching the beat of her heart. Reaching the bench, she offered him a smile and straddled the opposite end so they were facing each other.“Evening,” she greeted when he stopped honing his blade to look at her.“Evenin’,” Dwalin narrowed his eyes slightly and raised a brow, “To what do I owe the pleasure?”“Your charming personality of course,” Faye smiled as Dwalin rolled his eyes.“That’ll be a first,” he resumed sharpening his axe.“It shalln’t be the last. Though, I was hoping I could axe you a question?” It wasn’t her finest pun but she used it anyway. Maybe Dwalin hadn’t heard it before or wouldn’t shame her too badly.“You must be jokin’,” Dwalin said. Pausing again, he looked up at her, the smallest hint of a smile playing at the corners of his lips, easing some of her nerves.“Me? Never,” she grinned as he raised his eyebrows at her.“Go on,” he placed his hands on his thighs, locking his gaze with hers.Her heart quickened as she mirrored his pose, digging her fingers into her thighs. Words grew trapped in her throat, a fog filling her mind as she fought the urge to get up and walk away. She couldn’t remember the last time she had difficulty talking or confronting someone; being the sharp tongue against a few drunken miscreants or tossing insults to a man twice her size in a tavern.Maybe she’d chicken out this time. They weren’t in a closed relationship, hell, she didn’t even know if he considered it more than just sex. Then why did she feel a knot of guilt tightening in her chest whenever he saw her and Bofur together?“Are ya just gonna sit there then?” He asked, voice cutting through the barrier keeping her silent.“I could and I could talk your ear off while I do it if you’d like,” she replied.“We both know you’d do that even if I didn’t,” Dwalin crossed his arms, “Your question, what was it?”“Straight to the point,” she smiled but it didn’t feel as sincere, perhaps because she was about to lie a little. “I just wanted to make the joke since I spent most of the day on the highest level overlooking Rivendell. All the trees and cliffs make it hard to get a full view of the place. Bofur ended up joining me at some point but we just talked until we saw Nori below and —”“I ain’t your keeper, Faye. I don’t need to know where ya go,” he grunted, “or with who.” It was said almost as an afterthought as he leaned down to scoop a handful of water from a bowl by his boot. Pouring it over the whetstone, he began sharpening the edge of his axe with slightly more force than she thought necessary.“This is the first we have talked today. I was just telling you what I had done today.”“If ya want someone to know why don’t ya just tell Bofur?” He asked, without looking up at her.“Why would I?” She had just been with him so of course Bofur already knew, they had just been together, and when they didn’t spend time together they asked about each other’s day, not that Dwalin would know. It appeared as if they were going to have the conversation after all.“I guess ya wouldn’t need to with how often you’re on each other.”“If it bothers you, I can back off,” Faye frowned.“And why would it bother me?” He stopped and looked at her, eyes as sharp and cold as the edge of his axe.“You tell me! Does it?” Her voice raised slightly.They remained as still as statues, staring at one another, tension popping like small firecrackers around them. Neither appeared willing to move or speak a word before the other. It may have remained that way if a small brown bird had not landed between them. The thrush flicked its head between them a few times, almost questioning them before it ruffled its speckled chest and flew off with a parting song. Its fading twitters broke their tension, annoyance ebbing away as they sighed concurrently.“Does it bother you?” Faye asked to break the silence as Dwalin looked down at his weapon, running his thumb over the edge. Her gaze didn’t move from his face, searching for any tell that may aid in her guessing what might be going on in his head.“Bofur and ya always hangin’ on each other and gigglin’ all night like a couple of lovebirds?” he asked, lips pursed.Is he holding back more? Faye stayed quiet, wanting him to speak without her prying. When he did speak again, he sighed and looked at her.“It’s not the idea of ya sleepin’ with someone else botherin’ me. It’s somethin’ else.”“What is it then?” her voice was barely a whisper.Another silence followed and she felt as though she was going to scream. She wanted him to spit it out she knew what she needed to do. Faye wanted to keep whatever they had the way it was or help it grow into something more. Patience was required and all she could do was wonder in silence if he’d tell her the truth or feed her a lie to get her off his back. It had to be the truth he was struggling with. Dwalin came off as the type who didn’t lie to spare anyone’s feelings.“It’s nothin’ ya need to concern yourself with,” he said. “It’s somethin’ I need to figure out. I know you and Bofur are close. It’s surprisin’ to know ya haven’t done anythin’ considerin’ we’ll be leavin’ Rivendell in a few days.”The realization hit her harder than she thought it would, her brows furrowing at how it seemed he didn’t even consider her joining them. In a few days the key to the runes, the crescent moon, would appear and the secret of the map revealed. Thorin was likely to move them out early the following morning.Should I still follow? What would Thorin say? Over the past week and a half, she had grown close with most of them, sharing a love for quality tea with Dori and Bilbo, trying and failing to learn to knit with Ori, gambling with Nori, and rambling nonstop with Bofur but everything and nothing. Now that she was thinking about it, she had spent at least some time with everyone except Thorin. Had she been smarter, she would have tried getting him to warm up to her first and foremost and that was likely going to bite her in the ass now.“If ya were concerned about infidelity, don’t be,” he said, gathering his things. “If I’d wanted ya for myself I would have told ya.” As Dwalin stood, he dumped the bowl of water in the tangled roots of a nearby tree before looking at her. Faye gave him a small smile and nodded, exhaling slowly until her shoulders slumped. Nodding in reply, he walked past her, heading toward their chambers.“Hey, Dwalin….” she looked over her shoulder, watching him stop to turn and look at her.Faye wanted to confide in him, tell him she enjoyed spending time with him, even when sex wasn’t involved. Let him know she wouldn’t mind if he wanted her to himself but what good would it do now? Especially, if they did go their separate ways.“Nevermind,” Faye said, watching him shrug his shoulders before walking away.She sat there for a moment longer, listening to the whispered falls of water around Rivendell, the shudder of leaves, and the occasional conversation of resting birds. It was tranquil and calming but did little for her. Standing, she walked along the paved paths until she came to the terrace of one of the main houses. A tree with ashen bark and bright red leaves shaded an area near a flight of stairs, the railing decorative but sturdy. It seemed a place as good as any to contemplate.Reaching into her pocket, she pulled out the only coin she couldn’t part with, and leaned against the banister to inspect it. Once a shimmering gold, it was now dulling from her consistently handling it over many years. Even the dried blood, once trapped in the ridges of the relief, had been rubbed away. Memories good and bad returned to her as she flipped it over and over in her fingers.What would they have to say to her now?“Dwelling on the past?” Came a voice from behind her. Her hands clapped together, trapping the coin. She looked over to see Lord Elrond had joined her, dark hair shining even in the shade. It was difficult not to be envious of how elves didn’t even have to try and be silent on their feet.“That obvious?” She asked, curling one hand around her coin as she stood up.“It is rare not to see you accompanied by one of your fellow travelers,” Elrond commented, his eyes glancing at her curled fists before focusing back on her face. She wasn’t certain she wanted to have another conversation with the Elf Lord considering the last time she learned of her mother’s fate, but being alone with her thoughts was the worse alternative.“Sort of,” she sighed. Something about Elrond made her feel as if he were reading her like an open book, every strand of hair a line of her story, each freckle the punctuation, the scar on her lip a warning. He couldn’t read people that well, could he?“Not planning to leave with them?” He sounded neither surprised nor disappointed.“It is not that. I am not exactly a part of the company,” she rubbed the back of her neck and looked away from him, “I kind of sort of, but not really, followed them after helping them, and then when the wargs were chasing us I just ran along with them until we arrived here.” Faye looked back and swore she had seen the faintest smirk on his face.“Gandalf has made mention of you aiding them more than once without asking for anything in return. Seems a bit odd in this age,” he looked back at her hand for a moment, “but he seemed adamant that you speak true. If that is the case then I do not see why you wouldn’t continue to, but not really, follow them. The road to the Iron Hills is long and likely to be treacherous through the Misty Mountains, they may need your aid again.”Faye couldn’t help but smile as he repeated her words. It was almost disarming hearing someone of his intellect and status say it but she appreciated it.“I could but I would rather be invited along,” she frowned, opening her hand and looking at the coin, silently lamenting.“You find yourself most happy with the dwarves and wish to deepen your bond with them. Particularly the two you are growing to love most. An understand—”“Love is a strong word don’t you think?” Faye interrupted almost immediately, eyes wide. She had quickly grown to care for them and would like to be closer, but love? That kind of love was dangerous; she had learned that the hard way. All she wanted were companions who enjoyed her presence as much as she enjoyed theirs.Elrond tilted his head slightly, revealing half a smirk before straightening. She felt as if she had been caught in a lie but couldn’t for the life of her figure out what it was.“Sound travels well in the valley, Faye. In certain areas, whispers carry on the wind like normal conversations,” he said.Did he mean? Oh. Her cheeks should have reddened but she had never been shy about such things. It was only natural for most adults to partake in it so why should she or anyone be embarrassed?“Even without overhearing some of your engagements, it is easy for an outsider to see the joy they bring you. Had you not told me, I would have assumed you had been with them for a longer period,” Elrond turned to look at her. “I may have even believed you had given your immortality up for them.”“No,” she opened her hand and looked down at it, thumb brushing over the warmed metal. “I gave it up for someone I thought loved.”“I see. That only confirms the fears I have for my daughter. I have glimpsed a possible future for her and while I do not know who it is I know he is a mortal man and I worry about the pain she will suffer having to choose between a mortal life and an immortal one,” Elrond placed his hands on the banister as he stared at the puffy white clouds skating across the sky.“I don’t regret what I did,” Faye said. “What’s fifty years over, say, a human life? Dying only when something will come to slay me? Not much. This closeness to death has given me a different view of life. And if I’m lucky, I can remain with my new friends until the end and I will not have to mourn them long after they are gone.”It was the longest someone had had of her thoughts in a while Perhaps that was the reason for the Elf Lord’s intensified stare.“Apologies…I’m certain you are already aware of all that. I was defending my own decision,” she ran her hand across the back of her neck again. Now she was beginning to feel heat tickle her cheeks.“You do not need to apologize to me for a choice that has no impact on my life. I understand why you felt the need to just as I understand it will ultimately be my daughter’s decision but I must do what I can to shield her from as much pain as possible as her father. Perhaps one day, you will experience that protectiveness.”“Need someone to love for that,” she smiled.“Give it time. You have many years left and may discover it during or after your travels with your companions.”“If things go as I hope,” Faye sighed.“If things do not go as you hope, you are welcome to remain here,” he offered.“Thank you, but I fear this is not where I’m meant to be,” Faye tried smiling but it felt weak. Her mother had wanted to come live here, and perhaps, if she had grown up in Rivendell, it may have felt like a home, but not now. As welcoming and tolerant as the elves were, she would not find her place among them.“Then I wish you safe travels wherever they take you,” he placed his hand on her shoulder briefly before taking his leave. Watching him, Faye couldn’t help but admire the way he almost glided with every graceful step. If she had kept her immortality maybe she would have eventually learned to be as agile as them without trying.Once Elrond had disappeared from view, she looked at the coin in her hand. Carefully, she rolled the coin over the back of her fingers to her pinky and back to her thumb. Balancing the coin on her thumb she flipped it higher than she had expected and witnessed it land on a low-hanging branch. Were she taller she could have reached up and plucked it off, but, unfortunately, that was not the case.Faye hopped up, hitting the flimsy branch with her hand, and while her plan to knock it down worked it wasn’t in her favor. She watched with wide eyes as it arced in the air, hitting the railing leading down the steps with a soft ping before falling out of sight.“No!” She cried, hopping over the banister closest to the stairs and watching as the coin curved as it rolled on the next landing, heading for the next set of stairs. Faye cursed as she bound down each step, feeling as if it was gaining speed, running from her as it hit the edge of each stair with an unearthly perfection that kept it in motion. Her chest tightened when it hit the bottom landing and once again curved as it rolled, heading for the open edge.Time slowed as she realized she would not be quick enough to get it before it fell. However, right as it reached the edge a large, heavy boot fell on it, preventing its escape. She froze, recognizing the steel-tipped front almost instantly as Thorin raised his boot, allowing the coin to drop to its side.“I did not take you as someone who cared much for treasure,” reaching down, he picked up the coin and inspected it for a moment before offering it to her.“Thorin….thank you,” her voice trembled slightly as she held out her hand. “I don’t…just for this one piece.” She shut her hand as soon as he placed it on her palm.“It must hold sentimental value then.”Faye looked at him, squeezing her fist tighter until the metal started to bite into her skin. Not long ago he had asked about the Rangers she once traveled with and she had failed to speak a word, painful memories resurfacing like a flash flood and drowning her. The same bloodied and anguished faces resurfaced but her words were not trapped this time. She thought it likely because she had spoken openly so much already.“More than I wish it did,” she slowly opened her hand and looked at it, grimacing. “You once asked what happened to my old companions and why I am the only one alive. If I tell you now would you consider allowing me to remain with your company on your quest?”“That depends,” he crossed his arms but gave no hint of his thoughts with his expression. She nodded despite not receiving any terms and inhaled deeply.“I was once part of a small unit of Rangers for twenty years. We grew as close as any family could be and it was the first time I felt I didn’t have to try being someone I wasn’t. I didn’t feel judged for my flaws or that they expected me to conform to any particular ideal of what an elf should act like. I gave up my immortality for them, believing there was no way I could stand to mourn them for eternity. But,” her voice cracked as she held up the coin in her thumb and index finger. Tears burned her eyes but she blinked them away as she took another breath.“One of them didn’t feel the same. He set us up for an ambush and we were severely outnumbered. Not to mention he had spent the night encouraging us to drink so we didn’t stand much of a chance. And…it was… for a bag of gold. Not even a big one. That’s all our lives were worth to him! For…for a little bit of gold! He had been with us for over a decade and he sold us out like it was nothing! I lost everything that day!”Faye clenched her hand tightly around the gold piece and drew it back as if she were going to hurl it as hard and far as she could but stiffened instead. She bit the inside of her lip until a coppery, metallic tang filled her mouth, and relaxed, sliding her hand into the pocket of her pants.“I barely survived because our leader told me to get up and run. And I did. I jumped into a rushing river and left my family to die. It is one of my biggest regrets, but I swore it would never happen again. I would not make the same mistakes and if I got another chance I would do whatever it took to keep my new companions safe.”“And what of the man that betrayed you and your companions?” His voice sounded softer than usual.“I killed him,” Faye replied softly. “The reason I parted ways with Balin was because I was on my way to avenge my family. It was quick, not that he deserved it, but liquor and time had already ravaged him. He claimed this coin was the last gold the bandits had given him so after I ended his life I took it as a reminder.”It wasn’t the full story, several details were left out to not only make it shorter but to prevent her from breaking down. There was enough guilt within her without repeating the worst parts. If there could be a reason she was glad her years were now limited, it was that her guilt wouldn’t haunt her for all eternity.“I am sorry for your loss and understand the pain of feeling as though you have failed your people,” Thorin began, uncrossing his arms. She thought he might elaborate but he didn’t and instead asked: “Do you not have any other kin?”“I have none,” she laughed, “My mother is dead, my father must be at this point, no siblings, and the elves I grew up with were no real friends of mine. As nice as Elrond has been, I know I would never feel like I belonged.” Neither said a word for a long while, listening to the ambient songs of birds and whistling wind.“I will consider your request,” Thorin finally said, looking into her eyes. “I cannot deny you have helped us more than some of our kin and have befriended many in the company but I am still hesitant to allow anyone besides a dwarf to help with this. I already have one burglar I must keep alive until we get to the Lonely Mountain.”“I understand. It is all I can ask for,“ Faye smiled and bowed her head in thanks as Thorin started walking away. “And don’t underestimate Bilbo, he is likely to surprise you.”“That remains to be seen,” he replied.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
It would happen tonight. The crescent moon would climb the indigo sky to its zenith and reveal the secrets of Thorin’s map. Whether it was the key to reclaiming the mountain or a recipe for sweet rolls and disaster wouldn’t matter to the dwarves; they had already planned to leave tomorrow morning.And what was she going to do? It had been a few days since Thorin said he’d reconsider her joining the company, and not another word about it had been spoken between them. What few exchanges they did have were still short, failing to provide her with a natural way to bring it up. The simplest solution would be to ask, but her throat always closed up when she approached him with that intent in mind.What made things worse was that she and Dwalin hadn’t followed up on their conversation either. They still flicked chopped carrots or turnips at each other from across the table when they went to dinner together and bantered playfully whenever they talked until Dwalin finally rolled his eyes, ending their fun. Sometimes, it even felt as if they had grown closer.Occasionally, he’d brush his fingers against her arm, igniting a desire for more but nothing came, even when she touched his in return. More than once she thought he was going to bring up the conversation, tell her what the issue had been, but he never did. As soon as he’d open up to speak, his lips sealed and he looked away with pensive expression.When she asked if there was anything she could help with he just shook his head. It was vexing to watch him revert to the stoic warrior she had first met until their next interaction. The next time they talked, it’d be full of more of them teasing and joking with each other until she tried asking him again, and then the cycle repeated. Dealing with that wasn’t how she wanted to spend her last night in the Elven settlement.She didn’t want to spend the evening alone either, but she was sitting on a secluded ledge on the far side of Rivendell. A large tree and overgrown flowering bushes provided enough privacy that no one would know it was there unless they squeezed between the ashen tree and rocky wall; which was exactly how she had found it. Walking around one day with Bofur, they’d gone to inspect the flowers when she noticed the gap and slipped through.The ledge was wide enough for both to lie down comfortably with plenty of room to spare, making it perfect for talks during the setting of the sun and for pointing out constellations to him. The soft overgrown grass had flattened from the frequency of their visits as they talked about their likes, dislikes, and hobbies.Faye sat on the sheer edge, feet dangling as she leaned back on her hands, recalling her favorite discoveries about him. She remembered how his features scrunched up every time he mentioned something he disliked, like a kid faced with a plate of vegetables, making her smile. Or when he laughed too hard for too long he started hiccuping which only made them laugh more. He surprised her with his passion for leatherworking and all the intricacies that went into it from the different tanning processes, the tools used for cutting or carving into it, what were the best dyes to use, and so on. Seeing how animated he got, his hands demonstrating each technique, made him all the more endearing. Those were just a few of the many things she’d miss if Thorin’s final say was no. One more chat would be nice but with the falling sun getting closer to its demise she found it difficult to gather the strength to leave.She started to pull her legs up when she heard rusting from the bush behind her. Tilting her head back, she watched Bofur wriggle through the tight passage and was silently thankful she wasn’t the only one who struggled to squeeze through. Were the bushes not covered in thorns it’d be easier to push them out of the way to reach their spot instead of the alternative.Clearing the obstacle, Bofur checked to ensure nothing had been left behind and smiled at her. She returned it in greeting before she stretched her arms skyward. Feeling a small pop in her back she lowered her hands and patted the spot next to her.“There ya are! Thought ya might be here,” Bofur said, stepping over the boots that she had discarded by an exposed root. He walked over and dropped beside her with a soft thud. His legs hung over the ledge, heels bouncing against the rocky surface. “We were all wonderin’ where ya run off to.”“Who is we?” She questioned with a smirk, raising her left eyebrow.“All of us. Dwalin was the first to point out ya weren’t at dinner,” he looked at her, “everythin’ alright?”Faye bit the inside of her cheek as she thought about it. Despite it feeling like a loaded question, she believed she knew Bofur well enough to know it was meant innocently. Shrugging, she leaned forward, resting her arms on her thighs as she stared down into the valley slowly being consumed by shadows.“As far as I know, yes. Why do you ask?”“Just checkin’ in. I caught Dwalin off guard a few times tryin’ to talk to him. Don’t think he’s used to thinkin’ too deep. Scared the next time I’ll see smoke comin’ out his ears,” Bofur smiled when she snorted.“Did he tell you anything?”“No. Thought it may have been because the two of ya stopped…ya know, messin’ around.”“That obvious?” She asked, trying not to smile. They didn’t exactly try hiding their trysts, but they didn’t walk off together hand in hand telling others not to disturb them either. None of it had been planned, happening spontaneously whenever they crossed paths while strolling around the settlement. A little flirting, some teasing touches, and then they were looking for some dark corner to have their fun.“Don’t think I’ve seen Dwalin smile so much. Not sure he even realized it or how he doesn’t look so tense all the time,” he replied. “But the past few days both of ya been actin’ off.”“I have?” She turned her head to look at him, wide-eyed. Faye thought she had been playing off her concerns pretty well, but apparently not well enough for Bofur to miss it.“Aye. Happened three times in the past two days. Ya both get a melancholic expression like goin’ for a swig of ale and realizin’ there ain’t any left or, better yet, like you’re about to say goodbye but don’t know how. But we both know it isn’t the latter.” He tilted his head, brows raised, and his lips pursed.Dwalin did not come off as the type to develop bonds quickly, unlike Bofur. So it took her a bit by surprise to hear he had been acting off as well. It couldn’t be for the same reason as her though. Any hopes that tried to sprout in her heart were swiftly uprooted. If he had started growing feelings then wouldn’t he be bothered if she did sleep with someone else? But what if he shared the same stance with Bofur on sharing?No, that couldn’t be it. Not sure what to say, she instead wondered how long ago Bofur had drank or smoked something. If they kissed would she get a hint of the taste of it? Or would it just be him? If this was goodbye she wanted to at least send him off with a kiss, but what of Dwalin?Shouldn’t she do the same for him? Despite fucking a couple of times, they had only shared one kiss the night they’d stolen from the cellar and kitchen. Would it do more harm than good? Especially with whatever Dwalin was trying to sort out? Her heart felt heavy, aching as she tried to put the pieces of an extravagant puzzle together.“We had a talk a few days ago and I dunno…it’s been a little weird since,” she finally spoke, straightening up. “...it felt a bit like when he sees something to fight against…if that makes sense. I thought it was about me and others getting around, but,” her brows furrowed as she took a moment to gather her thoughts. “He said it wasn’t that. He was even surprised when I told him nothing had happened between you and me.”“Would’a been nice to know that sooner,” he said, beaming from ear to ear, the smallest hint of a blush dusting his cheeks. “Bombur was surprised when I told’m there wasn’t anythin’ between us.”“Nothing between us? Then it’s only on my part? Huh.” She leaned toward him and tsked, “To think I thought we had something special.”“No! Well, actually yes, but also no,” he stammered, “Durin’s beard you’re gettin’ me tongue-tied. I wasn’t jokin’ when I said I didn’t mind sharin’. May have seemed like it when we were messin’ with Dwalin but if we’re all in agreement about it then I don’t see why we shouldn’t try. I would have initiated somethin’ sooner if I knew I wasn’t gonna step on any toes! There were so many times I wanted to but held back to not put you in an awkward spot.”“What would you have done?” She asked, leaning even closer as she lowered her eyelids. His blush darkened as he gaped slightly, nothing coming out. “Relax. You don’t have to tell me…I like the mystery of guessing myself.”Reaching out, she grabbed his hand and squeezed it reassuringly. It felt too little too late now. Still holding his hand, she turned to watch the sun fall closer to the land. Neither said anything for a moment, their fingers slowly interlocking.“Ready to see it from the Misty Mountains?” His question sent a pang through her heart.“I am uncertain where I’ll go next,” she admitted, sighing as she looked away.“What d’ya mean?” He asked. “Aren’t ya gonna come with us?”The sun’s descent slowed as it kissed the horizon. It was a blazing inferno that set the sky on fire until it bled into a rich red. Golden rays of light reached toward thin wispy clouds splashed with pinks and oranges to no avail. As it sank behind distant hills and trees the sky began to bruise, purple drowning out the sun’s last light as stars twinkled into existence. She wondered if it was the end of its journey or the beginning of one somewhere she could not see.“I’m not part of the company,” she reminded him.“That’s not true!” Bofur exclaimed and furrowed his brows. “You’ve been with us for over two weeks. You’re practically one of us now!” He scooted closer to her, releasing her hand to wrap his arm around her shoulders. Instinctively, she leaned into his touch and dropped her head on his shoulder, easily done with them seated.“I talked with Thorin,” she watched more stars appear like a school of shimmering fish in the darkening sea of night. “Told him what happened to the Rangers I was with and he said he’d consider letting me join but he hasn’t said anything since and I haven’t asked.”Bofur was silent, leaving Faye to wonder if he was debating on asking her to retell the story or if he was searching for something else to say. If he did ask she was prepared to give him an even shorter version but he didn’t inquire about it. Instead, he stroked her shoulder with his fingers, nearly making her melt completely against him.“Well, he is the one in charge but ya weren’t part of the company before when ya were followin’. Might’ve ended up in a troll’s belly had ya not followed,” Bofur reminded.“That wasn’t because I followed you! I was looking for the trolls in the same direction your lot went!” She argued, lifting her head and leaning away from him. Faye pouted and narrowed her eyes. Snapping her head away, she gave it a second or two before she slowly turned back. He didn’t appear to believe her annoyance was real as he tilted his head again and raised his brows.Unable to fake it any longer, she burst into giggles and pulled her legs from over the ledge, sliding back until she was far enough away she could fully extend her legs across the soft grass.“Everyone’ll miss if ya don’t come,” Bofur followed after her, the fading light casting a golden glow across his features.“Everyone?”“Everyone! Who’s Gloin gonna boast about his lad to? Play pranks on Kili and Fili? Flatter Dori? We’ll all miss ya! Especially me.”It was what she needed to hear. Even if he was the only one that’d miss her she felt the heaviness in her heart lighten.“Is that so?” She tucked her leg under the other as she faced him. “Then maybe I will follow if Thorin still believes it a bad idea. Hopefully not, because I would miss you as well.” Reaching up, she grabbed the ears of his hat and tugged down until the brim covered his eyes. As his lips parted to say something else she leaned forward and silenced him with a kiss.He must have smoked his pipe shortly before searching for her, a hint of something earthy entered her mouth as she deepened their kiss. It was intoxicating despite its muteness, reminding her of the comfort of sharing his pipe in this very spot a few days before. She longed for more winsome memories and was pleased to know she’d have one more here.Breaking the kiss, Faye lifted Bofur’s hat completely off his head. The blush was in full bloom, darkening his cheeks and spreading to the tip of his ears, and was the most endearing sight she had ever seen. She carefully placed his hat on her head, enjoying its warmth and the smells that clung to it.It wasn’t fragrant like flowers or sandalwood but raw like the earth with hints of pipeweed smoke and sweat. Nothing about it should have been appealing but she found herself loving it, inhaling deeply and filling her lungs to memorize how he smelled. Looking at Bofur, she saw he couldn’t seem to look away. She cupped his face and leaned in until their foreheads touched, happy to remain just like that if he desired. Then something changed in his expression, a subtle shift as his brows knitted together.“What’s with that look?”“If that’s all ya got, I don’t think ya would miss me,” Bofur shrugged.“Am I not allowed to savor our first kiss?” She asked, grabbing his braids before sliding her hands down them, watching as they curled back up. “Maybe, you should show me how you would have missed me.”The words had barely left her before he covered her mouth with a fevered kiss that left her temporarily lightheaded. More subtle notes of his blend of pipeweed permeated her mouth as his tongue slipped in, embracing hers like a long-lost lover. She moved onto her knees, wrapping her arms around his neck, fingers tangling in his dark hair as his own clawed down her back and to her ass. He squeezed, sending a spine-tingling pulse through her as he pulled her closer to him, nearly onto his lap. Breaking the kiss, they stared at each other with quickened gasps, desire filling their shared gaze.“Are you certain you would miss me?” She taunted, wetting her bottom lip with the tip of her tongue. Bofur smiled in response before initiating another starved kiss, the air around them electric, almost buzzing as he pulled his hat off her head, tossing it near the base of the tree so he could thread his fingers through her auburn waves. Their lips only separated when their chests felt close to bursting, becoming more frequent as their hearts raced in time with one another.
Kissing wasn’t enough, and soon their hands roamed over one another, exploring every dip and curve of each other’s bodies until they began pulling at each other’s clothes. Bofur reached up, clumsily undoing the laces of her vest-like garment, struggling slightly when the undone lace wrapped around his fingers. With her intervention, he loosened it enough to slide it down her shoulders, exposing her neck. He broke away from her mouth to ravage her neck with a fervor of kisses. Nipping her pulse, he unwound his scarf and tossed it onto his hat.
“Bofur,” Faye sighed, tilting her head back as she reached down and unbuckled his belt. Sliding her hand down his abdomen, she cupped his groin, grinning as he groaned against her neck. A shudder ran through him as he bit her lightly when she palmed his hardening erection. They shared a brief look before giving in completely to their desires.
A short-lived flurry of earthy colors of green, tan, and brown fell around them like falling leaves as they undressed. How they managed not to toss any pieces over the edge by mistake was a mystery and even if they had, they wouldn’t have noticed.
Faye had already stripped off her jerkin and breastband and was about to unlace her pants when she noticed Bofur fighting for his life against his thermals. In their desirous haste to be free of clothing, he hadn’t removed one of his woolen gloves and somehow had gotten it and his hand tangled in the long sleeve. Attempting to stifle her laugh, she covered her mouth and watched him for a moment before crawling toward him.
“Here, let me help you.”
“No, no, I got it!” Bofur said and with a final yank, he pulled his hand free, glove still tangled within. Unfortunately, Faye had been too close and had positioned herself in the perfect spot to get smacked in the face by the back of his hand. Stars burst in her vision as pain radiated from her nose and spread across her face, eyes watering.
“AUGH!” Faye cried out, cupping her face as she rolled onto her back, furiously trying to blink away the tears that streamed out her eyes. She watched as Bofur, wide-eyed and horrified, scrambled to her side. He waved his hands around her face and shoulders, lowering them as though he was going to help her up, but pulling away as if she were scalding hot or might bite him.
“BY MY BEARD, FAYE! I’M SO SORRY! I-IT WAS AN ACCIDENT!! ARE YA ALRIGHT? PLEASE TELL ME YER NOT BLEEDIN’!“ His words quickly deteriorated into an unintelligible rambling of apologies and pleas for forgiveness as he reached up to where the flaps of his hat would have been, had he been wearing it. He glanced at where it lay before grabbing his braids and pulling them down instead.
Despite the pain, she burst into laughter not only at his reaction but because it was downright hilarious. Of course, he would have freed himself, accidentally punching her in the face. Dragging her hands down to rest on her bare chest she worked on collecting herself, hoping he didn’t find her insane. Slowly pushing herself up, she still laughed even as Bofur looked at her with the biggest puppy-dog eyes she’d ever seen. She used her index fingers to wipe the last of her tears away and looked at him, belly aching as her laughs gradually subsided.
“Whoooo,” she said with one final laugh, “If you didn’t want my help you could have just told me. Wait until Dwalin hears about this.”
“Faye,” he looked as if she had just kicked him, face redder than she thought possible.
“I am joking!” She moved to kneel in front of him, grabbing his hands and squeezing gently. His fretting over her told her he never would have meant to hurt her, even as an accident. He was taking the ordeal seriously, too seriously. “You did not hit me as hard as you may think. It is just a sensitive spot.”
“I can’t even begin to tell ya how bad I feel,” he lowered his head, not yet finding the humor in it. “Can’t believe I ruined the moment so quickly.”
“Nonsense,” Faye sniffed, the pain starting to dissipate. Bofur lifted his head as she smiled and let go of his hands. There was no way in hell she was going to let a little bop on the nose keep her from finishing what they started. “Do you believe we won’t have more blunders in the future?” She asked, grabbing one of his boots, and wiggling it off before doing the same with the other.
“Suppose not,” he said, watching her as his blush ebbed away. It must have been hard for him to believe she wasn’t mad or disappointed by the whole thing. She wondered if something similar had happened to him before and his partner ended it.
“We will laugh about it later and then I will tell you how I did something similar with Dwalin,” she slid her hands up Bofur’s legs and gave him several pecks on the lips. He needed no further encouragement from her to continue. As she drew away, he pursued her, capturing her lips with a new fervor. She almost felt his relief and excitement flow into her as he pulled her closer, hips slowly grinding against hers. It was as if fireworks were going off in her, something new ignited within them.
Faye quickly unbuttoned his trousers and slipped her hands down them and his thermals, finding that despite their hiccup, he was still relatively hard. Bofur moaned into her mouth as she gently stroked his length, lightly squeezing him. He bucked into her hand as she drew closer to the sensitive tip and let out a disappointed whine when she slid her fingers back down without touching it.
“I want you, Bofur,” she whispered in his ear, sliding her hand down past the base of his cock. “Blunders and all.” Cupping his balls, she gently massaged them, drinking in his soft gasps and incomprehensible mutterings. Teasingly, she withdrew her hand, fingers brushing against his straining erection as she moved to unlace her pants.
He was breathless as he looked her in the eyes and while he didn’t say anything, he didn’t have to. She could see the confession in his eyes like the stars glimmering in the night sky. It was her turn to gasp as he easily lifted her, her arms wrapping around his neck as he guided her onto her back. There was no haste as before, something deeper and more spiritual taking its place.
She lifted her hips, shoving her pants down her thighs, and with Bofur’s help had them completely removed. After removing his own, he nestled his hips between her thighs and leaned into her touch when she reached out for him. His cock brushed the front of her hips, leaving her cunt untouched, as he kissed down her neck and along her collarbone. There was an almost painful throb between her thighs causing her to whimper quietly.
“Please, I don’t want to be teased this time,” Faye begged, wanting to be even closer. He didn’t respond, didn’t even look up at her as he continued kissing her chest. Sighing, she arched into his mouth as he made his way down to one of her breasts, gasping as he took one of her nipples into his mouth. He sucked and dragged his tongue over it before softly biting the tender flesh.
The other didn’t go neglected for long as he reached up with his hand to pinch and pluck it gently. He switched to the other nipple, sucking and biting the one as he played with the taut wet one. She shuddered, hot pulses poured into her core until there was an undeniable ache between her thighs.
“Please,” she begged again, this time reaching between them to grip his cock, “I need you.” Faye felt desperate, too impatient to learn how he’d fill her. He wasn’t quite as big as Dwalin but thicker. As she guided him into position, Bofur began to rock his hips, the thick head sliding against her wet cunt. He pushed forward when she used her other hand to spread herself, slowly sliding into her.
Thicker, definitely thicker. She moaned as the tip pushed completely into her, stretching her and leaving her ravenous for the rest. Faye released him and dug her fingers into the soft grass, hooking her legs over his hips.
“Give…give me a second,” he murmured against her breasts, body tensed, “Ya feel too good. Don’t want it to end too fast.” His words came out in short pants, hot breath warming her. Bofur buried his face in the valley of her chest, taking a few slow, deep breaths. His hips began to rock again, slow at first but gradually picking up speed as he lifted her hips, finding the perfect angle for a deeper penetration.
“Oh, Bofur…you’re—,” her words were lost as he abandoned her breasts, kissing her and running his hands up her sides. Reaching out, Bofur grabbed her left hand and pushed it up by her head, interlacing their fingers. She quickly lost herself in not only the pleasure of the act, every thrust sending hot waves of pure bliss through her, but in him as well.
Every time they broke for air their lips ghosted over each other, tasting and memorizing the softness before melding together again, tongues sweeping and exploring each other. Faye’s chest swelled with a radiating heat that coursed through her like fire.
Nerves tingled, hyperaware of his soft warm belly sliding against hers, the light scratching of his dark hair against her taut nipples, and the tickling blades of grass caressing her backside. Beads of sweat glistened on their skin as the muscles in her thighs started to tense and she felt her climax begin to build as her cunt started fluttering around him.
He began to pick up his pace, pulling her hips closer as each thrust became shallower and shallower. Moaning, Bofur broke the kiss, panting as they squeezed their interlocked hands. Her hand that had been digging into the earth hooked under his shoulder.
“Gettin’ close,” he grunted, looking at her.
“Same,” she managed to squeak out, trying not to dig her nails into his back. “I just…just need,” her words struggled to leave her tongue, but as if they had created some psychic connection, Bofur seemed to know exactly what she needed. His hand, clasped on her hip, slid down to her groin where his thumb searched and quickly found her swollen clit. It was as if she’d been struck by lightning, each deliberate stroke coupled with his thrusting sent her careening over the edge.
Faye cried out, eyes rolling back as her toes curled while wave after wave of euphoric bliss rolled over her. Her back bowed into him as her legs tightened around him, heels digging into his ass and pulling him closer, needing every bit of his cock inside her. There was a wet smack as his balls slapped against her ass and he was moaning in her ear, cock twitching as he climaxed with her. They rode it out together until Bofur relaxed, resting his face on her breast and wrapping his arms around her.
Coming down from the high was hypnotic; an indescribable delight thrumming in her as she reveled in the heat of his body shielding her from the cool night air, and the comforting weight of him like a security blanket. She didn’t want to move, didn’t want to stop feeling the beat of his racing heart or the fullness of him completely seated inside her, but life could be cruel.
They remained quiet, and for a moment, she thought he may have fallen asleep. It was unusual for them to go so long without speaking if they were both awake. She started running her fingers through his hair, noting his braids had more or less held together, his hat would be able to hide where her fingers had unraveled some of them.
“I don’t wanna move,” he echoed her thoughts, making her smile.
“Neither do I, trust me,” she leaned her head down and kissed the top of his head before pushing herself onto her elbows. Bofur groaned, forced to move as well. He sighed, pulling out of her, and looked almost as if he was contemplating pushing her back down and snuggling up for the night.
“We should get back,” she said, sitting up and realizing she had nothing to clean herself with. “Maybe we’ll hit the baths first, dress in the least amount of clothes, clean up, and try and get some sleep before the big journey.”
“Sounds like a plan,” Bofur gave her a soft peck on the lips and started handing her her clothes. Once dressed in the bare minimum, they made their way to the baths for a quick clean-up and returned to their shared room to find Thorin, Balin, and Bilbo missing. Most of the company was fast asleep, getting as much as they could before their early departure, but Dwalin remained awake along with Fili and Kili. Faye caught Dwalin’s eye as he looked between her and Bofur. He gave a subtle nod before turning back to the young dwarves.
He hadn’t looked mad or jealous, his brows remaining relaxed, eyes soft, and his hands on his hips instead of crossing, but she felt there was something he wanted to say. It may have been the trick of the flickering light from the campfire, but she thought his mouth had opened before he turned away. She stood there for a second longer before carefully stepping over Oin and Bifur to get to her bedroll by Bofurs. Sleep burdened her eyelids and when she glanced over to Bofur, he appeared to have already started drifting off, breath evening out. Faye only heard a few of his soft snores before she succumbed as well.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Floor mats and blankets had been rolled tightly and slipped into the straps of bags, personal items tucked safely away, and any stray articles of clothing packed up. The room grew and expanded, breathing in the early morning air as more dwarves gathered near the exit. What warmth had once filled the area slowly ebbed as the first smear of pink appeared on the horizon and the first of the birds chirped sleepily.Watching her companions stretch and yawn, waiting for Thorin’s final say had her hopes deflating. She had not spoken to Thorin, and her movements were sluggish even with Bofur’s encouragement. Pulling on the straps of her bag, Faye sighed heavily.Do I follow?Of course, Bofur would tell her to do so, but was it the right move? At least, if she followed, she could keep an eye on them, and if they did run into any trouble, she could try and help. Just like the trolls, but what if she was too late, or something happened where she couldn’t get to them, or they needed immediate response? More questions surfaced and circled her mind like a growing maelstrom until she did nothing but stare at her things, trapped in her mind.“Faye!” The voice pierced her mind like a javelin, slicing through the thick cloud of thoughts. She glanced up to see everyone was staring at her, Thorin at the head of the group. His eyes shimmered like starlight in the dim room, capturing her full attention. Faye remained still, holding the straps of her bag as she kneeled before it.“Are you not joining us?” He asked, voice as clear as the sun’s rays streaming down from the cracks in dark thunderous clouds. Her heart quickened, growing faster by the second as her fists clenched tighter. She couldn’t have heard him right. As much as she wanted to look at the others to see if this was some kind of joke, she couldn’t tear her eyes away from him.She blinked. A short silence followed, dwarves and early birds holding their breaths to hear what he may say next.“I have reconsidered your offer to help us. While I would have preferred to keep this quest just to our kin,” his eyes glanced to Bilbo before returning to her, “we already have a hobbit among us, and you have given us no reason not to trust you. Help appears to be in short supply, so if you still wish to aid us, then I will not turn you away.”“Yes! Of course!” Her hands trembled for a second, and her muscles tensed as she prepared to spring up.“However, we do not have any more contracts for you to sign,” he added.“It’ll be easy to write up a new one,” Balin interjected.“No, that’s not necessary.” Faye threw up her hands, grinning from ear to ear. Everyone’s eyes were on her as she quickly shouldered her bag and popped up. “I’m not interested in whatever reward there might be, and I don’t have family, so there’s no next of kin to inform if something happens.” She joined the group, stopping by Bofur, practically bouncing on the balls of her feet.“Very well then,” Thorin gave a nod and looked at the rest of the company, “If there are no objections then let us move out before our hosts notice what we’re up to.”“Aye,” several of them agreed. Faye looked at Dwalin, catching his eye and the small smile on his face. Her cheeks ached as her grin grew, only diminishing some when she felt the warmth of Bofur’s hand on her back. He had placed his hand on her to urge her ahead of him as they started filing up. While she didn’t need the additional encouragement, she appreciated the gesture as it solidified that this was, in fact, real and not some dream.Leaving Rivendell, they were mostly quiet, perhaps paranoid their voices would amplify as they travelled across the valley. The dwarves had already squared up to the elves once, and she imagined they were happy to avoid any unnecessary attention. At least, until they were far enough away, Elrond likely wouldn’t send anyone after them. Then again, who’s to say he wasn’t already aware of their departure and was allowing it?As they approached the top of the cliff, Faye noticed Bilbo staring back at Rivendell, his brows arched upward, and a small frown appeared on his lips. She glanced back at the settlement, golden light bathing it in the morning’s warmth. With its singing birds, full kitchen, and kind residents, it wasn’t hard to see why he might long to return. Their trials were only beginning, and the mountains they’d be faced with climbing were likely the least of their troubles.“Committing it to memory?” she asked, touching Bilbo’s shoulder. He fliched slightly and looked up at her with a sad smile.“I don’t really even want to leave,” he admitted.“It’ll be there on the return journey home.”“If there is one,” he looked away and sighed so pitifully she couldn’t help but wonder if he was considering ending his journey with the company right there. The trolls had to have been a terrifying experience, even though he had been smart enough to try and stall until daylight, but there were worse things skulking in the shadows ahead.“Of course, there’ll be one! And when you do return, Rivendell will be even more lovely because you’ve ventured farther and survived incredible challenges. Ones that your friends and family back home probably won’t even believe! You’ll have tales that sound like they’re make-believe but’ll be true!” Faye grinned. She wished Gandalf was there to reiterate what she said in a more convincing way. Without him, the danger ahead was imminent.“That’s the thing, though, isn’t it?” Bilbo looked back at her. “How do I know I will survive to tell these stories? Most of them don’t even think I should be a part of this journey. I’m not a fighter. The only reason I’m here is because Gandalf insisted I come. You should have seen how quick they were to dismiss me.”Faye had just opened her mouth to object when she noticed the rest of the party had slipped past them and were already on the ridge, making their way toward the Misty Mountains. Thorin’s interruption made her realize they were getting left behind.“Master Baggins, Faye, I suggest the two of you keep up,” Thorin called farther up the path. He looked between the two before climbing the last few steps onto the plateau. Bilbo was already walking ahead of her, allowing her to pick up the rear. If he thought the conversation was over, he was wrong.Following Balin and Thorin’s lead, they traveled far, taking minimal breaks until they reached the foot of the Misty Mountains. Now and then, she’d catch bits and pieces of their conversations while they were climbing up and down the cliffs. Most of it had been about the ease of the climb and how it’d be difficult for orcs to sneak up on them within the rocks or how blissfully benign their luck had become. If their travels continued the way they were, they may even reach The Lonely Mountain before Durin’s day. At least, that was what the dwarves had been hoping for. Faye had not ventured this way in a long time but still remembered the dangers hidden within the mountains.The deeper into the mountains they ventured, the more treacherous the paths became, leading to countless dead ends, lairs of dark and dreadful beasts from tales long forgotten, and swarming with goblins now that no men claimed the land. Faye’s apprehension grew with every adversity that came to mind. She did not speak her fears aloud, not wanting to give Bilbo any more reason to dread the trek. If their luck truly had improved they wouldn’t meet any trouble.The midsummer’s heat was sapped from the air the higher they climbed, snow blanketing the tallest peaks a chilling reminder of why so few traveled over the mountains. Ice glistened on the rocky cliffs, catching the sun’s rays perfectly in some places it nearly blinded her. One wrong step and she’d go tumbling to her death. The wind bit through every layer of clothing as if made of fishing nets to number the tips of her fingers. Her mother’s elven avility to withstand the element deplorably gone from her own blood, Faye was freezing.Shivering, she wrapped her thin cloak as tightly around her as possible. Faye sniffled as she hugged herself, pulling the cloak tighter around her until it grew tight around her small pack. While she couldn’t see for herself, she could only imagine her cheeks and nose were as red as cherries. Picking up the rear, she’d only have to worry about the taunts when they stopped for a break. Thorin called for one no sooner had she silently wished for a short rest.Thorin and Balin stood on the ledge of a sheer cliff, scanning the mountains for the best routes. Faye watched as Balin pointed along different trails before conversing with Thorin. They were too far away, and the wind that whipped up needle-like snowflakes whistled loudly through cracks in the rocks, making it difficult to hear a word.“I hate the cold,” she groaned, crouching behind a boulder to hide from the biting wind. It wasn’t long before Bofur and Dwalin flanked her sides like two sentinels. Were she not so determined to fold in on herself to conserve as much of her body heat as possible, she would have made a joke about them looking like a pair of guard dogs. Instead, she tucked her frigid fingers into her pits and placed her forehead against her knees.Faye felt Bofur wrap his arm around her shoulders as he slid down beside her. Like a cat to the flank of a heated oven, she curled against him, trying to siphon what heat she could. She didn’t bother to lift her head when Dwalin set his bag next to her and began rummaging through it.“Can’t believe ya don’t even have a thicker cloak. Some ranger,” Dwalin said in a taunting voice.“I had no idea I would be coming this way. The Misty Mountains are dangerous. Too easy to get lost without a guide or killed by orcs and other beasts. If I have to travel east, I just go around. Besides, it’s summer, asshole,” she gave a muffled reply.“Aye, and rangers typically travel light. I’ve heard all about’m,” he said, “take this.”Lifting her head up, she peered at him with one eye from under her hood. He held out a dark green cloak, faded from time but thicker than hers.“You know, once you hand it over, you’re likely never going to get it back,” she warned him.“It’s my spare, and I think I can take ya if I really need it back.”“Hate to say it, but it’ll be two against one,” Bofur chimed in with a smile. “Can’t have Faye freezin’ on the mountain.”Reaching out, she took his cloak and stuck her tongue out at Dwalin, who only rolled his eyes. As she pulled it on, she was surprised by its weight. It was heavier than it looked, and while it added another layer of protection from the wind, she could still feel the cold finding a way in.“Then I’ll just wait until you’re alone.” Dwalin’s tone was teasing. If she had to guess, he had no intentions of taking it back.“I’d still fight you for it.” She realized this was the first time they had joked around since she confronted him in Rivendell. They had shared words a few times before, but there had been a formality to their conversations that worried her about the thing that was growing between them. As soon as the thought crossed her mind, Dwalin cast his gaze to his bag and replaced the items he had removed to get to his cloak.He glanced at her with an apologetic smile that left her confused. What was going on? What could he possibly be dealing with on his own? It wasn’t jealousy. She had seen him and Bofur crack jokes, dwarven things that didn’t make complete sense to her or something that must have happened before she joined. She watched as he stood, shouldering his bag before turning to join Thorin and Balin.“Dwalin, in all seriousness, thank you,” Faye said, scrambling to her feet. “I appreciate it.”He turned to look at her, smiling slightly.“It’s like Bofur said, can’t have ya freezin’ on the mountain.”Faye reclined against the boulder after helping Bofur to his feet. They leaned against each other, resting until Thorin deemed their break over. Without their ponies, they didn’t have time for longer breaks, especially if there were any other setbacks. Gandalf was supposed to meet them in the mountains, but Faye wasn’t certain if he had specified where. She lagged further behind, slowing her pace and pausing to stare behind them as she allowed the rest of the group to pass her until she was at the back of the party. There, she could continue to search for signs of Gandalf while keeping an eye on Bilbo.Wrapping Dwalin’s cloak tighter around her, she shivered and pulled up the hood, hoping to trap what little heat she could. Snow crunched beneath her boots as she daydreamed of the warm summer sun.“Still cold?” Bilbo asked as he walked beside her, the path wide enough to allow it for the time being. Faye looked at him, eyes falling on his bare feet.“The only way I wouldn’t be is if I set myself on fire,” she smiled as her teeth knocked against each other once. “And looking at you without shoes has my toes freezing.”Bilbo looked down at his feet, as if he hadn’t realized they should be cold.“Ah. I promise you they are, but we’ve got tough soles, and unlike you and the dwarves, I don’t seem heavy enough to sink into the snow.”“You calling me fat?” She asked, watching a flicker of fear cross his face. He relaxed, but she chuckled and slipped her hand from the cocoon she’d made with the cloak to pat his arm. “I am happy it is summer. I would not risk this trek through the mountains if it were fall or winter. I’d either go around or would have bided my time somewhere until it was summer.”“You wouldn’t have stayed in Rivendell?” He asked.“Not likely. I prefer the wilds. It’s where I feel most at home, and I can always go to an inn if I need a hot bath,” she shrugged. “Still wishing you hadn’t left?” Her voice lowered as she checked behind them. They were picking up the rear so they didn’t need to worry about someone sneaking behind them and overhearing.Bilbo didn’t speak at first, looking ahead at the company and frowning. He cast his eyes down before looking back up at her.“I didn’t want to leave in the first place. I’ve thought about going back. It’s like I said, I’m not a fighter,” he frowned, his voice low enough for only Faye to hear.“You don’t need to be a fighter to be on a journey!” She almost laughed. Bilbo didn’t seem to find any amusement in it. “You willingly joined their company. A part of you wanted to join them on their quest.”“I’m still not sure exactly what possessed me to run out my door in the first place. They would have been better off hiring someone like you.”His words took her by surprise. If they had wanted someone like her, they would have found another like her. Or Gandalf would have suggested another capable fighter. The wizard knew what he was doing by volunteering Bilbo, and she wasn’t going to allow him to doubt himself.“A little annoying, promiscuous, and full of regrets?”“What? No! I mean…you’re more like them.”“Hardheaded?”“No, well. Yes, but not what I meant,” Bilbo admitted, his frown deepening. “But most of them already seem to have accepted you as part of the group.”“I have intimately involved myself with two of them. May just be an acceptance as an extension of Bofur and Dwalin.”Bilbo gave her an uncertain look and ignored her comment.“I think they’d miss you even if that wasn’t the case. I can’t say the same for myself. Lord Elrond even inquired about me not being with my companions,” he sighed.Faye was quiet, watching the subtle shifts in his expression. There had to be something more to his doubt than not being a fighter. He had left everything he loved behind for this opportunity. Was it that? A bit of homesickness? Maybe she could use that to her advantage.“Well, I would miss you.”“That so?” A hint of a smile appeared on his lips.“Of course! Do not get me wrong, I enjoy everyone in Thorin’s company, but it is nice to have someone who isn’t so obstinate to talk with,” she grinned, watching him carefully. “I have also enjoyed hearing about your home and your garden. I cannot begin to imagine how much you must miss it.”The smile on his face widened for a moment before slowly diminishing like a smothered flame. She couldn’t imagine how hard it was to swap quiet evenings in front of a fireplace with a good book for the bone-chilling winds of the Misty Mountains. Bilbo had been sleeping on the ground, harassed by bugs, and forgoing warm baths for cold river for months when most wouldn’t even last a week. He didn’t even seem to realize that was a feat all itself. He could see this thing through, even if he didn’t believe in himself at the moment. She did.“I do miss it a lot. I miss my garden and my chair. I miss waking up in my bed and when the hardest decision was deciding what I’d make for my next meal or which book I’d read. Not having to worry about orcs getting me in the middle of the night or the fire going out.”“Then use that,” Faye said.“What do you mean?” He furrowed his brows.“Think of everything you miss about the comfort of home. Your books, your garden, your bed, and everything else that makes you love it. It’s where you belong, is it not?”“It is,” he sounded hesitant.“They don’t have that sense of belonging or home. Sure, Thorin made their lives comfortable in the Blue Mountains, but it’s not home. If you were forced out of the Shire, you could make a new life somewhere else, but the Baggins in you would always want to return to the Shire, right?”“I guess it would.”“Now, picture how grateful they’ll be when YOU help them and how good you’ll feel when you succeed. Do not let their current doubt in you have any sway over your confidence and abilities. Use their doubt as a motivator and prove them wrong!” Faye smirked. “Just be as stubborn as them, and you’ll have their respect in no time.”“I’m not quite sure I am confident in the abilities they think I have,” Bilbo grimaced.“Did Gandalf not come to you specifically for help?”“He did.”“Right! He’s a wizard who has to know countless qualified people for this position. He wouldn’t have come to you if he didn’t believe in you. I believe he was right to pick you, and the only thing making you hesitate now is yourself,” she looked at him hopefully. “Give it some more time. Gandalf will join us again before long, and it’ll be a smoother journey.”“I’ll think about it,” Bilbo promised, looking at her. It was all she could ask for at this point, and she had to hope he’d shake off the doubt and find the strength in himself to power through.