Title: The Unexpected Journey
Author: Bj Jones
Rating: M
Summary: After the loss of Erebor the company fled, only to discover a new life and home.
Sylum Timeline: May 1953 – August 1954 with flashbacks to the 800’s
May 1953
Thorin was sprawled out on one of the couches in the main hall of the Clan home. It was one of the few couches that he actually fit in, and was thankful that Builwyf had them special ordered. The fireplace was lit, sounds from the radio were drifting from the kitchen, and the smell of flowers from the garden filled the room from the slightly open doors. It was peaceful, and he was enjoying every moment of it.
Until the peace was shattered with a cry.
“Adad!”
Thorin sighed, though a part of him was concerned at the high pitch yell from his youngest. He put the book down he was reading just in time to see Kili and Fili run down the stairs, and slide into the great room.
He couldn’t help but smile at seeing them.
They cut their hair during the last war, easier for them to blend in. Fili’s was once again long, with a few of his original braids, while Kili was keeping it short, as he hated dealing with the long strands.
They were both in comfortable clothes, barefooted, and looked well like they just got out of bed. Even after all these years, there were moments he really didn’t want to contemplate their relationship. He loved and supported them, understood the pull of Mates, but sometimes they were still his boys.
“Is there a reason you two ran down here like Dwalin was looking for a training session?” He asked, biting back the laughter as they both stilled and checked all exits to make sure Dwalin wasn’t in the area.
“He killed us!!” Kili waved a book around in his hands. “We were nice to him, told him things and he repaid us by killing us!!”
“And on top of it, we’re literally the ‘also dead’.” Fili added to the conversation. “You get your big grand death scene surrounded by the company, and we’re just off to the side, no one giving a shit.”
“What are you two talking about?” He honestly had no idea.
Kili turned the book around and waved it at Thorin. “The Hobbit! Or the long journey to claim a mountain and we all DIE!”
Thorin opened his mouth to respond, then shook his head. “You’re now just reading it. That came out before the war.”
“We were fighting Nazis.” Fili pointed out as if that explained the past fifteen years.
“As was I, yet I read it. Though he did send me the draft that went to the publishers. I thought it was a good adventure. More upset over making Dori and Ori into men, our women were more than capable of taking care of themselves. I have no idea who Gandalf is supposed to be, but I really wanted to smack him a few times.”
“We’re not even your maukk in the story!” Kili still shook the book.
“So why are you reading it now?”
“There’s a sequel coming out,Fellowship of the Ring. Supposedly continuation of the ring Bilbo’s picks up,” Fili shrugged. “Considering he roamed around the other Clans after the war, I’ll be interested to see who else pops up.”
“The two of you were reading it together.”
“Yes.” Kili dropped the book on the table with a grunt of disgust. “Uncle Bilbo was reading it, but not sure where he’s at.”
Thorin took a deep breath, then lifted his blanket. “That explains the cuddly hedgehog.” Both boys peaked under to see Bilbo curled into his Mate. “You could’ve just told me.”
“I tossed the book across the room, and needed to see you.” He commented shifting out from under the blanket. “He killed off my family. Though, I will say it was quite well written, but that was my family! That Gandalf character was no good, distributor of the peace, would not have been welcome in the Shire, at all.”
“Should we check for furry feet?” Kili smiled at their uncle.
“Oh do not get me started on that part of the story. I may have curly hair, but I have normal feet and ears. Thank you very much.” He sat up and fixed his shirt, making himself more presentable, even if it was his dark blue pajama bottoms and one of Thorin’s old t-shirts “And my dwarves were far from rude or obnoxious. Though I did have a relative that reminded me of those Sacksville-Baggins. And it was just rude to steal all my stuff!”
“We’re actually not Dwarves.” Thorin pointed out with a slight smirk, which got Bilbo to huff but lean over and give him a quick kiss, hand pulling on one of his braids.
“I need to go cook something.” He crawled over Thorin, gave each of the boys a hug and a kiss on the cheek. “Also Smaug was reading the book. Well I should say Gran was reading the book to him.”
Thorin stared up at the heavens. “He’s going to lose his ever loving dragon mind over being a corpse in the lake.”
“HOW DARE HE!”
“And there he is.” Kili looked at their father, gave him a cheeky grin and waved. “It’s your pet, you deal with him.”
“What is Smaug screaming about?” Hiccup slid into the room, also in his pajamas, as the dragon yelled and whined outside.
“The Hobbit.” Thorin tossed the blanket back and stood.
Hiccup took a few steps back, he always did when the Hunter got close. Even in his stocking feet he was enormous, the poor guy had to get everything tailored to fit him. Honestly, he had no idea why Thorin wasn’t the Lead Hunter, since he was built for it. But every time he tried to give him the position, he disappeared.
“You know I don’t want to know.” Hiccup turned around and headed back to his rooms, to make sure Toothless wasn’t hiding under the bed.
Thorin made his way out the doors, to see Builwyf having it out with Smaug. Gran sat nearby with the book in her hand, looking as if she was contemplating her life choices. He shrugged, and was going to head towards the kitchen to see what his Mate was going to cook, when he saw a familiar figure walking up the path. He would recognize the tall build, bald head, and grumpy exterior anywhere.
“What brings your sorry ass this far north?” Thorin smiled at his oldest and dearest friend.
“Your darling boys told me they were planning to finally read that grand tale we all lived through.” Dwalin pulled his king into a tight embrace. “I knew they were going to freak out, and your Hobbit was going to likely cook up a storm while muttering about idiot wizards.”
Thorin laughed, taking comfort in the embrace. They hadn’t seen each other since before the war. “You’re here for the food.”
“Damn right.” Dwalin patted him on the back. “I see the big lizard is screeching over something.”
“Gran was reading him the book, and now he’s crying that Smaug the Magnificent wouldn’t be killed by a single arrow from stupid human. Despite the fact we cornered him with a rock and sword!” Both chuckled at the memory. As they headed inside they let Builwyf deal with the dragon, as both looked to be having fun.
Though neither would admit it.
“How did the boys take it?” Dwalin asked as they stepped into the great room, dropping his military duffle bag.
“I can’t tell if they are more upset that I was killed, or that they were listed as ‘also dead’.” Thorin had to admit that was the main part that had upset him. He had almost lost his sons once, reading about their deaths hadn’t been easy. It had been odd that the story had them as his nephews, it hadn’t set well with him, but he had to remind himself that it was Tolkien’s story, not theirs.
They had met Tolkien when he was visiting Norway, he had learned from his children’s nanny about Vampires and like any curious writer came to learn more. The moment Dwalin had met him, he had to walk away. Which was understandable, as beneath the sharp mind and witty commentary was the soul of Ori.
They never told him, and so far the writer hadn’t remembered.
So, they weren’t surprised he was an excellent storyteller.
Despite the death of the Durin line, he enjoyedThe Hobbit. Loved seeing how Tolkien changed it into his own world, adding in the Dwarves, Hobbits, Elves and Wizards. He had read about the upcoming sequel, and was curious to see where he was going to take the story. Was also interested in what he was going to do with Bilbo, neither one of them was going to handle it well if Tolkien married the Hobbit off.
“I re-read it, and still enjoyed the story, but damn it made me miss all of them.” Dwalin entered the kitchen to see Bilbo cooking away. As he was reached for an item on one of the taller shelves, the guard stretched over him and grabbed it. “What would you Hobbits do without us?”
“I’m not small, you’re just overly big.” He took the item, setting it on the counter, then realized who had helped him. “Dwalin!” He reached out and pulled his friend into a hug. “Don’t tell me you’ve read that well written family killing book?”
“Read it when it was first published.” He set Bilbo down, ignoring the low grumbling he could hear from Thorin. He turned to his friend. “Possessive bastard.”
He received an unrepentant grin in return.
“I did read the new version, there’s some changes. I think it’s set up for the new one.” Dwalin took a peak at what was being cooked. “Tell me you’re making those jam cakes.”
“I will now, for my favorite Dwarf.”
Dwalin laughed and kissed the top of Bilbo’s head, ignoring the deeper growl. He grabbed his King, and headed back towards the great room. “I wanted to talk to you about something.”
“What is it?” Thorin settled back onto the couch, his friend taking the seat next to him.
“Was thinking of looking at a career in law enforcement. After losing Leigh, I’m kinda done with farming for a while.”
“You’re a good farmer, but a better Captain.” Thorin pointed out, and he understood the want and need for a quiet life. They had a nice piece of land on the outskirts of Oslo, he had a forge and his Mate had a large garden. He knew Bilbo was looking for something new to do, and now that the world was recovering from the war, he was thinking of travelling. Thorin got his need to right justices, when he bore his red sash. “You’ve been protecting my ass since I was born.”
“Until you outgrew me when you were five.” Dwalin grumbled at him. It wasn’t right that his charge was taller. From the moment he was born, Thorin had been bigger than most, by the time he stopped growing, everyone physically looked up at him. “After Leigh died, and with the book back out on the shelves, it’s just been on the forefront of my mind.”
“I’m sure the boys will want a trip to Erebor, want to come?”
“When was the last time you visited?”
Thorin leaned back into the seat. “During the war. I was moving all around the area, staying very low key. If I took out too many Nazis they would retaliate against civilians. When I checked in on Bilbo, who was doing spectacularly with the malicious compliance, discovered there was a group of Nazis aiming for the famed treasure of Erebor. Hitler was always trying to find weird religious stuff. I think this group was looking for gold. Smaug doesn’t like when people come after his horde.”
“None made it back.” Dwalin’s smirk was quite wicked, he had no love for Nazis and had joined one of the Scottish regiments to fight against the bastards.
“One. Everyone thought he was crazy, when he talked about a dragon and a ghost in the shadows.” Thorin chuckled evilly. “How long are you staying?”
“For a bit.” He stood, patting Thorin’s leg. “Need to be close to the family.”
Dwalin found his way to his normal room, when he came by to visit. There wasn’t much to unpack, clothes, weapons, toiletries and a few books. The Hobbit sat on the nightstand, while he cleaned up and then settled onto the bed, thinking about a quick nap.
Instead his mind wandered back to the moment he met Thorin for the first time.
Six year old Dwalin’s eyes widened at the words coming out of Ry’el, and he was pretty sure Prince Thrain was not going to survive. He knew that she was giving birth, and that it was difficult, as his mother had informed his father many times. But he had never heard such yelling before.
“Adad, is she going to be alright?” He tugged on his father’s tunic.
Balin smiled down at his son, trying to put him at ease. “Oin is with her.”
That had not assured him. After some time he found a corner and sat down, as it seemed birthing took a while. The early morning was pierced with the sound of a crying baby. He shook himself awake, standing up to move next to his father. Not long after, Oin stepped out of the room, smiling softly.
“‘Tis a boy. A big one.” Oin shook his head, not quite sure how the young woman survived, he had never seen a baby that large at birth. It helped that she was a good strong build, herself. “He’s healthy, has a good set of lungs and a strong grip.”
Thrain moved into the room, to see his son.
Dwalin snuck past the adults to peek into the room. Ry, as she let him call her, was sitting in the bed, looking tired but happy as she held the baby. Prince Thrain was all smiles, giving his wife a quick kiss on the forehead as he softly touched his son.
Ry looked up, noticing Dwalin at the door. “Come on now, meet Thorin.”
He made his way across the room, the Prince grabbed a small wooden stool so he could stand on it and see the baby. His face was squishy, eyes closed, one hand shoved into his mouth. He noticed that the baby had Ry’s dark hair, as there was a mop of it around his head.
“He looks odd.”
Thrain chuckled, patting Dwalin on the shoulder. “All babies do, you were bald.”
Dwalin gave him a shocked expression, making them both laugh. He turned his attention back on the baby, then reached out to gently touch his cheek, the baby’s eyes opened and looked right at him. At that moment, Dwalin knew he would follow his King to death and beyond.
***
Thorin was enjoying his Mate’s cooking spree. Dolorus had taken the invasion with ease, matter of fact she was having a nice long bath, and was reading the now infamous book. He paused when a high pitched scream echoed through the house.
He looked heavenward and sighed.
“Which one was that?” Bilbo ignored the scrambling they were hearing as he pulled out two roast chickens from the oven. He probably should’ve cooked more, considering how much his family ate, but he had lots of sides and treats, which should leave some food for everyone else. He checked the pot of stew that he was making for Smaug, to keep the annoying bastard calm.
“I’m pretty sure it was Kili.”
He was proved wrong when Hiccup ran past, out the back door, Toothless right behind him.
“Doesn’t that usually go the other way, when Smaug is around?” Bilbo paused as he mashed the potatoes. He glanced up to see Dwalin standing in the doorway grinning. “Never mind.”
“Did you threaten him with training?” Thorin was snacking on a warm cheese biscuit, as he held up the basket to his Captain.
“Yes. I noticed Fili and Kili are nowhere to be found.” He grabbed the biscuit and moaned at the taste. “Why did you pick this asshole?”
“I like tall men, with long hair.” Bilbo grinned at them.
“There’s nothing wrong with being bald. I’ve been told it’s very sexy.” He ran a hand over his smooth head. “Where are the kids?”
“Hiding from you.” Thorin had informed them that Uncle Dwalin was visiting, and those two had dressed and left the house before he could blink. “Food will bring them in sooner or later. I had to have a long talk with Smaug, after his romp with Builwyf. The bastard is calm, and not likely to make a trip to England to have a discussion about Dragons with Tolkien. Gran agreed to finish the story, so far he gave me a backhanded compliment, by saying I wasn’t anything like my grandfather and would never get gold fever.”
Dwalin shook his head at the Dragons’ antics.
“Bilbo promised him stew, so he’s on his best behavior.” Thorin smiled up at his Mate, when he put down a plate full of stuffed mushrooms. “As much as I’m enjoying the food, we’re sitting right here.”
“I know.” Bilbo sat down across from them. The apron was covered with flour, along with streaks in his hair and across his cheeks. “I know it’s a story. I just can’t get it out of my head, losing you and the boys. You had already lost so much, and then getting here we lost most of the company. I don’t want to think about it, not really.”
“I’m sure the annoying lizard did enjoy the first part of taking over Erebor.” Dwalin decided to move the talk away from the book, and towards their real story.
“Considering how Thror treated him, yeah he must have cackled at the very thought of it.” Thorin had a good chuckle himself over that part.
“You don’t talk much about him.” Bilbo dug into the stuffed mushrooms, it was one of his favorite dishes.
“He was an asshole.” Dwalin sneered. “He controlled everything with an iron fist, hoarded everything for himself and those loyal to him, he didn’t care if the people starved.”
“Thror tried to manipulate everything to his bidding. Made deals with unsavory nobles, which was why Erebor fell in the long run.” Thorin added to the conversation, he had no love loss for his grandfather. “My father was a decent man, just had no backbone to take on his own father. I can look back and see the years of bullying made him insecure of his place in the kingdom. Hell, he didn’t even get to pick his wife, Thror bought amad from a war lord, and forced them to marry. He honestly thought she would just pop out an heir and sit quietly in a corner.”
“That was his downfall.” The Captain of the guard smirked. “Ry, was not a woman to cower. She was stubborn, strong willed, and deadly. Thror wasn’t sure what to do with her. Then she gave birth to Thorin, and as far as he was concerned he had a strong male heir – he thought could be manipulated.”
Bilbo almost choked on his mushroom. “Had he met Thorin?”
Laughter echoed through the room.
“He started to become worried when Thorin wouldn’t stop growing. By age twelve he could look Thror in the eyes, and I think that was when he realized Thorin would be his downfall.” Dwalin glanced over at his king, giving him a small smile. “It was the first time you defied him.”
“I defied him many times before, that was the first time it was openly.”
Bilbo kept quiet, hoping he would get more of the story. His Mate didn’t always talk about his childhood, or dealings with his grandfather. If he talked about those years, it was mostly about his mother, the stories she told, and his connection to Orcist, the legendary sword that was from her grandfather’s grandfather’s grandfather, and likely a few more.
The stories he’s listened to over the centuries, was always about the boys, members of the company, how the village prospered. The only reason Bilbo knew how it was all lost, was because he was part of that section of the story.
“What happened?” He asked, as he studied the two men, wondering if he would get more information.
Dwalin shook his head, then snorted. “As you know my job was to protect him.” Bilbo nodded, hands reaching for one of the last biscuits. “He never made it easy.”
Thorin scoffed. “Was I supposed to?”
Thror sat on his throne, looking down at the haggard strangers. They had come to Erebor to seek food and aid for their village, which had been ravaged by the winter storms, and many were sick and hungry.
“Why should I help you?”
The tall blonde tilted his head slightly frowning at the questions. “Why would you not?”
“My people should not have to suffer for your incompetence.” Thror sneered at the two, as he stood hand gesturing to his personal guards. “Escort these pathetic excuses out of my village.”
“Your people are already suffering.” The dark haired one, who was smaller and a bit more lanky than his companion, gave Thror a small sadistic smirk. “Yet you have the resources, so really who is the pathetic creature here? The one who asks for help, or the one who refuses to aid their own people.”
“I should have you killed!”
“Touch my shield brother and you will suffer a wrath far greater than can be imagined.” The blonde stepped forward, hand reaching towards his sword.
Balin stepped in between the two men, and his King. “At this moment we are unable to help with your request. Maybe another time, we will have the resources to aid.” He gave them an employing look, hand gesturing towards one of the side doors. “How about a warm meal before you leave.”
“Throw them…”
“Your highness.” Balin gave the King a tight smile. “Small mercies will heed the hand of harm.”
Thror rolled his eyes and stalked out of the throne room.
Balin led them out of the room, to a smaller eating area. A woman, with a small child next to her, dished out a bowl of stew, and handed them some bread.
“Where are you from?” The child asked climbing onto the bench to sit next to them.
“Bombur!”
“I am being friendly, amad.”
The blonde smiled down at the boy, then ruffled his hair. “We’re from a small village many days from here.”
“It’s cold, do you not have cloaks?” He asked with a curiosity only a child could have. The mother grabbed her son’s arm and pulled him off the seat. “But amad!”
The dark haired one gave the other a side-eye. “He’s a menace.”
“The child is curious.”
“I meant the king.” The look he gave his companion said everything about how he felt about the situation.
“There is nothing we can do, Lok …” The blonde paused as two guards entered the eating area. He watched one of them signal to others, who closed the doors and took positions in front of them. With a glance to his companion, and a returned nod, they waited to see what was happening.
They had seen both of the guards in the throne room, quiet to the side, not attached to the King’s Guards. The taller one, with long black hair, that was tied back into intricate braids, approached – it was obvious he was the Captain.
“Sirs.” He gave them a quick bow. “I would apologize for the King’s behavior but it would be pointless. So instead I offer what I can to help with your aid.”
The blonde smiled brightly. “Your kindness is appreciated.”
“What is in it for you?” The other gave the guard a hard look.
“Nothing. As a matter of fact, punishment if the King finds out about it.” He returned the stare, before glancing over at the far guards. He snapped his fingers, and they opened the door and let in two people. A young woman and a middle aged man. “This is Dori, she makes the finest cloaks. They may not look much, but they will keep you warm. I was only able to obtain a few, but Dori in her sneaky ways was able to acquire more blankets.”
Dori gave them a small smile, setting down a pile of blankets and cloaks. “I tossed in a few gloves and wraps, bundling up can help. The blankets can fit two adults or a horde of kids. I should know, my sister and her friends like to make forts.”
The blonde laughed brightly, hand reaching out to the materials. They were sturdy, would handle many cold winters. “Thank You.”
“This is Oin, he’s the village doctor.” The Captain introduced the man who looked as if he had seen a lot in his life.
“I put together medicines.” He set a bag on top of the garments. “It is not much, but there is a herb mixture that can help for wet breathing. There are also bandages, healing ointments, and a few other herbs that can help.”
“I know it is not a lot.” The Captain frowned, it looked like the weight of the world was on his shoulders. “But it is what I can put together in a short time. Bomaur is packing up some food, mostly dried meats and some breads, but enough to get you back home.”
The blonde stood, hand reaching out. “You are a good man, make a fine Captain of the Guard.”
The one behind him snorted. “This is Thorin, he is the grandson of the King. I am his Captain of the Guard.”
The dark haired one laughed. “Well there is hope for this village.”
“You are a fine young man.” The blonde gave him a pat on the shoulder. “You will make a good King.”
Thorin nodded, then chuckled. “At the moment I am only twelve, but I do agree that when I am of age things will change.”
Both stood there, staring at the kid. “And I thought you were overly huge.” He snarked at his blonde companion. “Look kid, you have what it takes to be a good leader, stick with it.”
“Thanks.” He glanced back at the doors. “Leave now, Balin can only hold him off for some time.”
The two grabbed the cloaks, along with the pack of medicine, and headed for the door. The young woman from before handed them a wrapped basket, filled with food. They heard the shouting from the King, just as the doors closed behind them.
“You defy me?”
Thorin turned around, and held his grandfather stare with a defiant gaze. “Helping those in need.”
“You stole resources from your people!”
“I stole nothing.” A low deadly snarl escaped. “Every item given was donated by the citizens of Erebor.”
“Those things belong to ME!” Thror roared, stepping closer to his grandson hand raised.
“They belong to those who made them.” Thorin refused to move, taking the angry man head on. “Go ahead, take it. It will be the only one you get.”
The hit echoed through the room, those who had witnessed gasped at the fact the King struck his grandson. Thorin took it with ease, then slowly turned his gaze back onto Thror, as his hand reached out to hold back Dwalin. “That was the only one, remember that. Next time, I will defend myself and we will see who is left standing.”
Thror sneered. “You are too much like your mother.”
There was a soft snort and chuckle. “Irony, she says I take after my grandfather.” With that he wiped the blood from his lip, stepped back and with a quick hand signal, he left along with his guards.
It was the first moment Thror realized his grandson had become powerful.
“Who were the visitors?” Bilbo asked.
“Never got their names.” Thorin shrugged frowning when he saw there were no more stuffed mushrooms. “They came by again about twenty years later, they thought I wouldn’t recognize them. I kinda felt it was a test, to see if I actually was a good King.”
Dwalin paused, glancing over at Thorin. “They looked familiar, but I thought they were from the same family.”
“It was the exact same two men. In the Christian faith, some people have stated that Angels come by, asking for help, almost like a test. Considering the dark haired one commented directly about my future reign, it made sense they came back to see what happened.”
“So you think they were Angels?” Bilbo gave his Mate a peculiar look. He knew Thorin wasn’t religious. He still believed in the Norse Gods, though had a bone to pick with Odin. He also hasn’t had good interactions with the Catholic church, no one wanted to talk about the ‘Sampson’ moment.
“Not necessarily, but doesn’t mean the Gods don’t send messengers to check on things. Thror was cruel, greedy, and a murdering bastard.” He sighed, running his hands over his face and through his long locks. “They saw it first hand, it made sense to check to see if the grandkid actually made a difference or ended up just as greedy.”
“Well in that case you passed with flying colors!” Dwalin grumbled not liking some unknown deity testing his King. “Erebor was prosperous before that bastard showed up.”
Bilbo could feel the tension building in his Mate. “How about some more mushrooms? Mushrooms make everything better.”
Thorin smiled at him, knowing he was working to pull him out of the funk he was likely to fall into. “You know I could never say no to any of your cooking, but especially your stuffed mushrooms.”
“How did they test you?” He figured it was a better topic than the destruction of Erebor. He knew they would likely be making a trek out to the ruined village, and it was best to deal with those emotions at the time.
“Same deal. Villagers need our help. Except this time it was the fact they were raided. I sent Dwalin and some men out, and took in the refugees they had. There wasn’t anything left, we absorbed the survivors into the village. The two leaders disappeared a day after.”
He wasn’t ready to mention he had seen them again when the village was destroyed, they were both trying desperately to help his people. He will forever be thankful to them for that act of kindness.
“I guess we’re lucky Smaug wasn’t being an asshole.” Dwalin shook his head, remembering the moment. He should’ve realized it was the same two, blonde and dark haired. Stoick and snarky. Honorable and sneaky.
“He mostly stayed up in his cave, we left him alone and he liked it. Compared to Thror, who was always sending him off to do his dirty deeds.”
Bilbo paused in what he was doing. “Wait, Thror had him doing his dirty deeds?” He had no idea, it made sense then why the Dragon was eager to work for Thorin.
“The bastard used him to get rid of enemies. When he decided that his own son, my parents, were the enemy…” Thorin paused letting the anger dissipate, it had been over a thousand years, and still the very thought that his grandfather had his parents murdered, made his blood boil. “It’s how I discovered about Smaug, and how Thror had been dealing with his enemies.”
“No.” Bilbo set down the container of mushrooms on the counter and stared at his Mate in shock. Now he understood why he didn’t talk about his parents death. “He had Smaug kill them?”
Thorin’s nod was barely noticeable. “It took me a long time to come to terms with their death and his part of it. To understand, though responsible, he wasn’t the reason.”
“How old were you?” Bilbo moved back to the table sitting down next to Thorin.
“Just turned fifteen.” He leaned over and kissed the curly locks. “He had ordered Thrain to go to a neighboring village, to discuss trade negotiations. I thought it was odd he sent Ry with him, until a week later, when he informed me they had been killed in a raid.”
“Your parents are dead.”
“So you finally killed them.” Thorin held his grandfather’s gaze, he had found it humorous Thror had taken to standing on the dias so he could continue looking down at Thorin. “What next? I noticed your new whore has not dropped a kid, so I guess I am still your only heir.”
“I will not tolerate such disrespect!”
“Then kill me like you did my parents!” Thorin snarled, taking a step towards the throne. “Face it old man, I have more power than you want to admit, let alone youth on my side. Technically, you removed my only competition to the throne.”
He sent a quick prayer to Vahalla that his father would understand, and never think Thorin was just after the throne.
The two stared at each other, the tension thick. Thror knew he could not challenge his grandson, the boy was bigger and stronger. His spies also told him the village was backing Thorin, and his only loyal citizens were his guards and the nobles, who knew their days were numbered the moment Thror died.
A smirk slowly formed on Thorin’s face, as he knew his grandfather was in a precarious state. So he did the one thing he knew would piss him off, turned and walked out without an acknowledgement.
“Not soon after he sent me to Smaug to be dealt with, only for us to make a deal.” Thorin’s smirk was wicked.
Dwalin’s laugh was dark. “I’m not sure who was more shocked. Smaug or Thror.”
They had set out two days ago, on the orders of Thror to discuss trade negotiations with a nearby village, the same village he had sent his parents. Everyone in the throne room had watched with anticipation. Thror sat on his throne, calm and relaxed. Thorin stared at him for a few moments, then accepted the assignment. The next day the two packed and headed out. Dori had given them extra blankets, Nori made sure they had all the intel he knew about the village, and Oin gave them a well stocked healer kit.
The first day they two barely talked, both watchful of their surroundings and listening for any sounds of an attack. By day two, Dwalin finally broke the silence. “You do realize that he sent you on this quest to have you killed.”
Thorin gave him a side eye. It had been obvious from the beginning, no one sent a fifteen year old to negotiate trade agreements, normally advisors and diplomats went, people like Balin. “Why do you think I brought you with me? My loyal guard.”
“There are days I regret ever laying eyes on you.” He ignored the laughter, despite his own smile. “I am guessing he has a group of mercenaries. Is there a reason it is just the two of us? Enough of my guards volunteered to come with us.”
“I will not have innocent lives lost.”
“Just mine.”
Thorin glanced over at his friend, giving him a wicked grin. “I said innocent. By the way how is Nori?”
He was sure Dwalin was going to push him off the horse, when they heard a low growl. Within seconds they pulled up the horses, dismounted, and stood ready with swords drawn. Thorin had expected mercenaries, men of the war lords he knew Thror had paid off over the years.
But, his instincts were screaming at him, that this was something different, and they were not prepared.
The ground shook when the creature landed. Thorin blinked at the sight, there was no way a Dragon stood in the middle of the path. He had heard tales of the fire breathing creatures, men who had claimed to be hunters telling tall tales. There were even rumors of a small island further north that protected them, that the chief was a Dragon Speaker.
“Who dares approach my lair!”
They stared at the creature, both too shocked to even comment.
“I will not tolerate trespassers!”
“A Dragon?” Thorin shook his head pulling himself out of his stupor, then stepped forward. “How the hell does Thror have a Dragon to do his dirty work?”
The creature was large, reddish in nature with golden eyes. The head shifted downwards, showing a stocky yet slim body, the tail was long, and looked powerful enough to knock either of them into a wall without a thought. Its front claws were large, and led up to powerful wings that were spread out showcasing just how huge the creature was, and for once in his life Thorin felt small.
“Who are you?” The rumbling growl echoed through the rock formations.
“Thorin son of Thrain, son of Thror.” He stepped forward sword ready, but not quite in a defensive or offensive manner. “What is your name, Dragon?”
“I am Smaug. Also known as Smaug the Magnificent.” He leaned on his front feet, the claws spread out against the ground as he bent closer. “Who sent you here?”
“I was sent here by Thror.”
“Then you were sent here to die.” He pushed right up to Thorin, head tilting to get a full look at the man standing in front of him. “Tell me, son of Thrain, why should I let you live?”
“How does my grandfather have such a powerful creature in his grips?”
The dragon reared back, “I am no one’s slave!”
“Yet you do what he bids, do you not.” It was starting to make sense. The tales of fire and death, whispers of demons coming for the King’s enemies in the night. The fact his parents were burned beyond recognition. “I would help such a magnificent creature, break the bonds of slavery.”
“And what of it for me?” Smaug again leaned down and pushed against the warrior, noticing Thorin never flinched.
“Freedom.”
The dragon eyes narrowed, before he moved back into a sitting position. “Where did you get that sword?”
Thorin glanced down to Orcist, then back up. “It was a gift from my mother, it was her father’s father, a weapon passed down for many generations of warriors.”
“It is shiny.”
“You will have to kill me first.” Thorin slipped into a defensive position. He could feel Dwalin take position, backing him up.
“Well you were sent here to die.”
They did not hesitate, both dove sideways for cover when the fiery flame went over their heads. Dwalin climbed onto the rocks, taking in the terrain and the dragon. The scales were too thick for their swords, but the tail – well maybe he could wedge it between rocks.
Thorin on the other hand took an entirely different approach and rushed the dragon head on. Smaug scrambled away, not used to anyone attacking him! The two were snarking off at each other, while dodging blows, fire, and stones.
“Stand still you insolent being and die!” Smaug huffed another flame of fire, then yanked his tail around to send the annoying human into the stones only his tail never moved. He looked behind him to see the other annoying human smirking, worse was the rock now sitting on his tail. “You will PAY for this!!”
“I think not.” Thorin growled out, sword now settled at the open wound on Smaug’s chest. He had seen it when dashed under the dragon, small but noticeable, a missing scale. “That’s how he’s controlling you. Does he have it or does he know about it?”
Smaug went completely still, he could feel the shiny sword touching bare sensitive skin. “What do you want?”
“Let us talk without trying to kill each other.” Thorin lowered his sword showing his willingness.
The dragon huffed, but settled into a sitting position. “Tell the oaf to move the rock.”
“That we will leave in place while negotiating, consider it protection.” Dwalin made his way towards his king. “Tell us what we want to know.”
Smaug sneered at Dwalin, ready to burn him to a crisp when he felt the shiny sword smack his unprotected section. “Fine. I will hear your pathetic pleas.”
“I would point out,” Thorin poked the exposed patch, “that we have the advantage.”
“At the moment.” The Dragon knocked the son of Thrain, son of Thror into a rock.
“Thorin!”
“I am fine.” He stood up, rolled his shoulders, then dusted himself off. Dwalin cringed at the sound of the the neck and spine realigning
Smaug paused, noticing the small crack in the rock, normally that would have killed the tiny humans. Maybe this one would be worth dealing with. “Tell me, son of Thror, why do you stand against him?”
“He is an asshole.” Dwalin moved over to Thorin, checking him out. That hit was harder than he had seen the prince take, and he knew the bastard well enough that he would not complain even if he was hurt. “What more do you need?”
“How do I not know you are not the same?”
Thorin stood in front of Smaug, then put his fist to his chest and bowed. “By my honor.”
Smaug rolled his eyes, but settled onto the ground to be at the man’s height. “He has my scale. I had lost it in a battle with another dragon, of course hid it from you humans. I am not sure how he found or stole it, but he has been threatening me with Dragon Hunters for decades. The fact one always travels near my cave … “
“Grimborn.” Thorin had always thought the man was a boastful asshole. “Claims his family have been Dragon Hunters for generations.”
“And they are good at it.” Smaug hated to admit it, but it had been enough for him to follow Thror’s wishes. “The bastard has also stolen from my hoard, just to prove he has the power.”
“Hoard?” Dwalin was curious, and was having a hard time believing they were even having this conversation.
“Shiny things. It all belongs to me.” Smaug snuffled at the sword settled at Thorin’s back. “That is a very shiny sword, never seen one like it. Actually, I have but not from around here.”
“Do not even think about it, Dragon.” Thorin gave him a nasty glare. “What will it take for your loyalty to turn against Thror?”
Smaug snorted. “I have no loyalty to him, but if he was to be challenged I will not come to his aid. On two conditions.”
“Name them.”
“I want my scale and next time Grimborn comes through the area … “
“You want us to kill him?” Dwalin frowned, but at the moment was not seeing a downside to this deal. He had talked to the man twice, and wanted to shank him both times.
“Yes.” The dragon sat back up. “And I want something from you to show your loyalty.”
Thorin laughed lightly. “I will return your scale and the hunter will meet an untimely end next time he comes searching for drink and riches, that will be our deal for you not to interfere when I challenge my grandfather.” He took a step closer to the Dragon, looking directly up at him. “But loyalty works both ways. I will give you a shiny tribute, but it will mean you protect Erebor.”
“I do not protect pathetic humans!”
“We will not interfere or go near your cave. All we ask is that you do not harm our citizens, and if I call upon you for help, you come.” Thorin walked over to his horse, and dug through one of the pouches until he pulled out a wrapped object. “This is precious to me, Smaug. A gift from my mother, who you killed on Thror’s command.”
Smaug shifted backward pulling his wings tight against his chest to protect the vulnerable spot. “Was this all lies!”
“No.” Thorin unwrapped the item, holding in the palm of his hand a large clear crystal. It was just over two feet in length, part of it was cracked coming to a few sharp points. It glittered in the sunlight catching Smaug’s attention, he was captivated by it. “I will pay you tribute with an ancient heirloom, on the honor of your word Smaug that you will protect Erebor, when called upon.”
“Thorin…”
He shook his head, but kept his eyes on the dragon. “Do we have a deal?”
Smaug leaned downwards, sniffling at the crystal. He had never seen something so beautiful or shiny. He tilted his head taking in Thorin, studying him for a few moments, then nodded and grabbed the crystal from his palm. “Deal.”
Two do laters they were riding back to Erebor. “Why did you give him Ry’s crystal? She always kept it on her altar, for her prayers. Why do you even have it in your bags?”
“Thror has been trying to steal it since I could remember. After amad died, he confiscated everything in their rooms, but I had already removed it. He tried to force me to hand it over, as all things belonged to the King. I told him I had no idea what he was talking about, so I carry it on me at all times, especially after I found his whore in my room.”
“Oh I am sure I do not want to know what her excuse was for being there.” Dwalin shook his head. No one liked the King’s new bedmate, she really thought she was going to be the next queen. She also made no bones about her attention to Thorin, as everyone knew that one day Thror was going to die.
“It was awkward at best. She informed me it was time I learn how to please a woman.” The two snorted and laughed lightly. “I smirked and told her if I wanted to learn I would find a real woman. She tried to slap me, it did not end well.”
“What are we going to do now?” He wanted to know what to expect when they walked back into that throne room, no treaty but still alive.
“We’re going to act like nothing happened.” Thorin glanced over to his friend, his true friend, the one who has stood by him through everything. Who taught him to fight, and was his first kiss. Though they swore never to discuss it, ever. “We are going to state that they refused to negotiate with us, which we know is not really a lie. Then just watch Thror try to figure out what the hell happened.”
“And afterwards?”
“It is time we strengthen all of our alliances. We need to be prepped for anything he will try. I will be sixteen in a few months, and then I will call him out.” Thorin pulled the horse up, his expression was deadly serious. “I will kill him.”
As Bilbo listened to the story, he couldn’t help the feeling of uselessness. His Mate was a teenager, who was making adult decisions, dealing with Dragons, and contemplating taking on a madman. When he was fifteen, he was learning how to cook, take care of the gardens. The worst thing to happen to him was losing his father.
“I wish I was there.” Bilbo stated barely realizing he said out loud.
“I wouldn’t have you in that mess.” Thorin gave him a small smile. “I should’ve told you most of this way before now, like centuries ago. I don’t like thinking about Thror, or what he had done to Erebor, the people, my family. I also don’t like discussing the fact I plotted his murder.”
“He was far from innocent.” Dwalin pointed out. “And let’s face it, he would’ve gone after you at some point. The man truly thought he was going to live forever … “
Thorin practically gave himself whiplash as quickly he turned to look at his Captain. “No.”
“I mean we know some of his connections, the people he paid were connected to that bastard. Do you think he promised him eternal life? Make him a Vampire?” Dwalin can’t believe that in all the hundreds of years since it all went to shit, that they had never thought that maybe just maybe Thror had a plan to live forever.
Bilbo stared between the two of them. “You think he was a Vampire or aiming to be Turned?”
“I think he knew about them, and was angling to get it for himself.” Thorin shook his head, never contemplating that part of it. “We had no idea about Vampires at the time. Since the bastard didn’t burst into dust after I took his head, he hadn’t been Turned.”
He focused back on the food in his hand, trying to wrap his own brain around the very implication. “How did you kill him?”
“On my sixteenth birthday I challenged him for the throne.” Thorin stood from his seat, took Bilbo’s hands, then led him to the table to sit. “I never talked about it, because well I never wanted you to see that side of me.”
“I was there when you trained at Masyaf.” He pointed out, and never once did he ever think differently about his Mate.
“That’s different and you know it.”
“It’s not.” Bilbo argued back, taking his Mate stubbornness head on. It was a trait he was very good at, thank you very much. “Thror was an evil dictator who harmed his people. You removed him from the situation for the better of Erebor.”
“It was personal.”
“I’m pretty sure you just told me, he set you up to be killed by the big annoying loud, obnoxious lizard out back.” He crossed his arms over his chest, he can be as stubborn. “And your people deserved a good King.”
“He put on his finest armour, and we went to the middle of the village.” Thorin’s gaze never left his Mate’s. “I suddenly realized that the reason he was never taken down in battle, his breast plate was wrapped around a Dragon scale.”
Bilbo’s mouth dropped slightly. “Oh that bastard, but it makes sense! Considering your gear, that was made from the hide of that evil bastard you and Smaug took on, but never talk about.”
“Well at least that was a fight, not used to blackmail a creature into your bidding.” Thorin shooks head. That was a thought for another day, and no they didn’t talk about it.
“He took his time, and kept looking towards the Northern skies.”
Dwalin broke into the conversation. “He had sent a messenger out for Smaug, I had one of my own men follow him, also made sure he understood that the guard was not to return.”
“There was a lot of yelling, name calling, my deployable parentage… “
“I can agree to that, considering it is you I am a descendant of!” Thorin smirked as Thror growled and took threatening steps towards his grandson, only to stop and settle further away. “You claim to be the true King of Erebor, why do you not fight?”
“You are a child!” Thror eyes flicked around the area, desperately searching.
“What are you waiting for?” Thorin was wearing simple leather armour, his arms stretched wide, a strong grip on Orcist. “Fight for your kingdon old man!”
Everyone knew that Thror was not coming out of this battle the winner, and the murmurings around the village center were getting stronger.
“Or are you waiting for a champion?” Thorin smirked wickedly at his grandfather’s wild look. “Are you expecting something to swoop down and decimate your competition, to show the citizens how powerful you really are?”
“What have you done!” Thror growled as he advanced on his grandson.
Thorin blocked the first blow, then moved to counter the second. As the fight intensified he used his grandfather’s anger against him, making him attack to wear him down. This fight was already going to look unfair, as he had youth on his side. Though he did not have experience. Dwalin worked him hard since he was big enough to truly hold a sword, but fighting in the training stalls was different than a true opponent. Thror may be in his sixties but he was a warrior from birth and could still fight. It was something he knew not to take for granted.
Thror’s sword was knocked out of his grip, he countered by grabbing Thorin’s hand and slammed a small dagger into his side, through a slit in the leather. “You will not take my throne.”
“I already have.” Thorin pulled his arm out of his grandfather’s grasp with ease, stepped back and despite the pain in his side, swung his sword taking Thror’s head. The body dropped at his feet, a part of him should have cared or grieved, but all he felt was relief.
“Boy let me see the wound.” Oin rushed up to him poking around, then cursing under his breath as he grabbed a cloth to stop the bleeding. “Inside your Highness.”
Thorin blinked at him for a moment, not quite registering what the healer was stating. He then looked past Oin, to see Dwalin down on his knee, head bowed, behind him were the guards. Balin walked up to him, gave him a low bow. “Oin is right your Majesty let us get you inside to check the wounds and can then discuss what needs to be done.”
“It was at that moment I realized I was King.” Thorin gave Bilbo a small smile. “And for the first time had a what the fuck do I do now moment.”
Dwalin laughed. “He totally was not prepared for the reality of being King.”
“MUSHROOMS!”
“And then those two were born and being a king was so much easier.” Thorin rolled his eyes, as the two boys barged their way through the kitchen, stealing snacks along the way.
“I could smell them a mile away.” Kili gave Bilbo a sideways hug, then stole more food before making his way to the main table, avoiding Dwalin and sitting next to Thorin. “We were thinking?”
“Dangerous.” Dwalin drawled smirking when both boys flipped him off while continuing to eat.
“Boys!” Bilbo gave them a firm look, pointing at both of them with a wooden spoon.
“Sorry Bilbo.”
“You two were never this respectable with me.” Thorin rolled his eyes at their antics. He had raised them by himself since birth, praying he wouldn’t fuck it up the whole time. The fact they grew into strong men, who were respectable warriors, yet showed their compassion to the people, and love to their family – means he did something right.
“Bilbo is scarier.” Kili leaned over to his adad whispering conspiratorially, eyeing the ‘Hobbit’.
“Well that’s true.” Thorin winked at his Mate, who was ignoring his family’s antics. He glanced over at Dwalin. “Did I not say they would show up when they smelled the food?”
“Just like when they were children.” Dwalin gave both boys a look, but couldn’t help the smile. Their antics as children had made the throne room bright and filled with laughter. A large difference than the dreariness of Thror. “So what’s the marvelous idea you two were thinking?”
“I’m sure adad already suggested, but I think we need to visit Erebor.” Fili commented as he settled across from his brother. “I know its a story, a good one actually, but I really just need time with family and home.”
“I was already contemplating a trip.” Thorin reached over the table giving his oldest’s hand a squeeze. “Let’s look at heading out there in a week.”
“Sounds good.” Fili gripped his father’s hand for a moment. “We can take the transport truck you kept after the war, it can carry us with supplies.”
“Don’t want to hike all the way out there?” Dwalin teased the boys. “Carry all the gear on our back, hike multiple miles a day, sleep out under the stars, march through mud, wind and rain.”
“Hell no!” Bilbo called out from his spot by the stove. “I’m not taking any chances of adventuring out to Erebor. With our luck we’ll find trolls, goblins, and orcs!”
Kili pointed at him, while nodding his head. “I agree.”
Thorin chuckled along with Dwalin. “I’m too old for that shit, so we’ll take the transport truck. Still be camping, but at least not going over the Misty Mountains or get lost in Mirkwood.”
“What were you talking about before we … “
“Invaded?” Dwalin commented.
Kili ignored him completely. “Fili and I couldn’t help but get lost in memories. They are always there, but after reading the book, they just seem to be in full force.”
“We’ve been on memory lane.” Thorin bumped against his youngest shoulder. “Some even before you were born.”
“Any good ones?” Fili asked with a grin. “You don’t talk much about that time.”
Thorin glanced up to see Bilbo giving him a soft encouraging smile. “How I made a deal with Smaug then became King.”
“Well we all know great grandpa was an ass.” Kili shrugged as he stuffed half a biscuit into his mouth. “You did everyone a favor taking him out.”
He could feel Bilbo’s ‘I told you so’ glare, despite purposely not looking at him. “Did I ever tell you boys how your mom got my attention?”
“No!” Both shifted giving dad their full attention.
Dwalin snickered, remembering the moment. Thorin had fallen head over heels, and was a complete moron, but thank the gods Dis was a much wiser woman.
“Before he died Thror had a lover, trying to have a new heir.” Thorin could tell by the sounds from the kitchen Bilbo was intently listening. “She had high hopes of being the next Queen. The main problem was that Thror never married her, so she was merely a mistress.”
“Why didn’t he?” Kili asked. He had never quite understood the politics of court.
“Actually that’s a good question!?” Bilbo called from across the room. “Or would that have screwed up the line of succession?”
“Oh he would’ve married her if she had gotten pregnant, taking my claim away from the throne. She would be Queen, her child the new heir. Knowing Thror he would’ve waited until she popped the kid out, praying it would be a boy.” Thorin shook his head, politics sucked.
Before his father died, the two had talked about what would happen if by chance the woman – they had refused to call her by name – did produce an heir. Thrain may have never stood up to his father, but he made sure his son was stronger than him, he also made sure Balin had trained him in all the ways of court and politics, the good and bad of it all.
It wasn’t a new story.
Women have manipulated kings and emperors for years to make sure their child was the favorite. The one who would inherit, the one who would be King.
“After Thror’s death, she knew her days were numbered.” He continued the story, his tone was lighter. “She tried every trick in the book to keep her station. Dis was the daughter of a nobleman, who was one of the rare good ones. She was his only child, and he raised her as he would any son. Your mother was smart, could drink Dwalin under a table, and was a damn good warrior. She also knew how to play the proper role in court. She despised the mistress, and made sure to be a thorn in her side the moment the woman arrived on the scene.”
“What did she do?” Fili asked with enthusiasm. They didn’t get a lot of stories of their mother, then he knew they weren’t together long before she died.
“When the mistress’ plans weren’t working … “
“What did she even try?” Kili wanted more details. “I mean she had to realize you were not going to put up with her. Stories are told throughout history about these women who were displaced or even killed.”
Dwalin snorted and shook his head. “She was power hungry, and was looking for the next fool she could manipulate. First she tried to seduce Balin, my mother had passed a few years before, and was sure he was lonely. I tossed her out on her ear, was kinda insulted that she didn’t try to seduce me, but then I was a lonely Captain of the Guard.”
“Then she went after the obvious target.”
Fili and Kili rolled their eyes. “I guess that didn’t go well.”
“Not one bit.” Thorin chuckled. “She had to flee my room naked, holding onto her clothes, while Dis yelled at her for being in the King’s room. She had seen her sneak in, knew what the woman was up to, waited just long enough for her to get ‘comfortable’, then barged in screaming and ranting at her about decency and honor.”
“Go amad!” Fili high fived his brother. “Then what happened?!”
“That was the first time I truly met Dis, I fell for her instantly. She gave me a short bow, rolled her eyes and my complete utter inability to speak, then stalked off.”
That got the boys laughing, even Bilbo was snickering.
“She earned my respect, when she came to Balin, a few weeks later, to inform us what the mistress was up to. This was after she tried to claim she was with child, and carrying the true heir. I have to admit my response wasn’t my best, which likely led her to her final act.”
“Was she?” Fili wondered.
“No, and if she was by the time she announced it wasn’t Thror’s.” Dwalin added to the conversation. “Adad ranted for hours about the conniving bitch, when he confronted her with the timing of a wee little one, she claimed it was Thorin’s.” The kids and Bilbo turned to look at Thorin, who rolled his eyes. “It wasn’t, and everyone knew it.”
“I accused her of lying and threatened to have her banished. Winter was approaching. She wouldn’t have survived.” Thorin knew full well he would’ve tossed her ass out into the cold and had not cared, even if she was with child. At that moment he was working to secure his throne and the last thing he needed was a potential rival or even the thought of a rival. He had already been dealing with nobles loyal to his grandfather, and all they needed to was claim the child was the true heir, and a civil war would’ve broken out in the village. “Once it was realized her manipulations were not working, she went for the drastic measure. Her time was limited, there was no way I would allow her to stay, by spring she would be banished.”
“One would think by that moment, be thankful you’re still alive and leave.” Bilbo commented from the kitchen. “I’m guessing she decided to work with some of the nobles and overthrow the new King?”
Thorin winked at his Mate. “Dis discovered the plot, brought it straight to Balin. By the time they tried their coup, we were waiting for them. No one survived, and when the mistress played the I’m just a girl, she was gutted by Dis. I likely would’ve married her on the spot, but she rolled her eyes at my sad bumbling moronic displays.”
“So how did you win amad over?” Kili was grinning at the story. He totally understood the bumbling like a moron, the first words he ever said to Tauriel was ‘flower pretty’. Fili still teases him about it to this day.
“A few months later, I approached her like a civilized human being. I gave her a small dagger, as a token of courtship. Explained that I was still learning my new role, but I wanted her by my side. She took the dagger, and didn’t stab me so I counted it as a win. We started courting, her father was thrilled of course, yet I know for a fact he made sure she was truly comfortable and not just doing the right thing.”
“But you did love each other.” Fili gave his father a look.
“We truly did. She kept me on my toes, and I was able to handle her gruffness. We married the summer after my eighteenth birthday. She was beautiful.” He was lost in the memories for a moment, then glanced over to see Bilbo smiling at him.
The boys smiled at the story, not asking for anymore as they knew how the story ended. Amad didn’t survive their birth. Adad never blamed them, but they knew it was a painful memory. He always made sure that Fili knew he got his blonde locks from her, but he was all Durin. Kili may look like their adad, but was all amad.
Kili was smiling brightly, then paused for a moment. “I’ve never asked not wanting to upset you, but have you ever seen her?”
Thorin shook his head. “Not in all these years. Your grandfather, Thrain, returned. He was living life as a grocer of all things, happy with a wife and half dozen kids. Died an old man, surrounded by family and the community that loved him. I stopped by a few times, we would talk for hours, but don’t think he ever realized.”
“I was just wondering, as I have never seen Tauriel.” He buried his head in his father’s shoulder as he hugged him tight. “Okay so let’s talk about much better things. Like how Dwalin lost his hair!”
“Raising your asses!” He glared at the boys, getting everyone to laugh.
“I think it was more to do with juggling his love life!” Thorin was just far enough away not to get smacked.
“Wait, do I know this story?” Bilbo set a few plates down on the table, including more stuffed mushrooms. Along with a plate of chicken, cheeses, and breads. “I mean isn’t that why you can’t be near Tolkien, because of Ori?”
Dwalin sighed, sending his King a death glare who promptly ignored it. “Ori was my wife, I loved her dearly, but she wasn’t my Mate. Yes, it’s hard to be near Tolkien as at times I can see the humor and determination of Ori shine through. But he is not her, and he doesn’t remember so it’s best I keep my distance.”
“So who was your Mate?” Kili asked, wondering how the hell they had missed it all these years. “I mean I thought you and Ori were a happy couple.”
“We were.” Dwalin gave him a pointed look. “You can love your wife, but have someone else as a Mate.”
Kili nodded, taking the reprimand easily.
“So you know who your Mate is … was?” Fili reached over and patted his Mate’s hand. He knew that there were moments Kili still mourned the loss of his wife, and he didn’t blame him, Tauriel was a beautiful woman who put up with his brother’s shit. There were days he missed her.
“Nori.” Thorin answered for his friend. “They actually were together before I became King.”
The boys blinked, even Bilbo stared at him in slight shock then shook his head. “Oh, suddenly it all makes sense.”
“How the hell did Dori handle that?” Fili was sure that the frightening woman would not have taken kindly to anyone hurting her family.
“Not well.” Dwalin shook his head though had a smile on his face. “There was no way I was able to settle down with Nori, for one he wasn’t the type, and most importantly … we could be ‘friends’ but that’s it. I was the Captain of the King’s Guard. It was expected of me to find a good wife.”
“So you picked the sister of your lover?” Kili gave him an incredulous look. “How are you alive?”
Thorin laughter echoed in the room. “I actually said the same thing when he told me he was getting married.” He gave Dwalin a smile. “You two were barely in your terrible twos, driving me up a wall with your antics.”
Bilbo laughed at the proud smirks both boys carried.
“You all met Dori, if she felt at any time this was bad for Ori, Dwalin would be your poor beloved Uncle who passed before his time.”
Dwalin snorted. “I wasn’t sure who she wanted to smack first.”
“You.” Thorin answered with ease.
“What exactly did you say to get her to agree?” Bilbo had to know. He didn’t know Dori for very long, but he admired her gentle nature, yet fierce loyalty to her kin. The woman was an amazing seamstress, and could heft a sword like no one’s business.
“The truth.”
Thorin stared at his Captain in shock, Fili took the advantage of his father’s distraction and was out the door.
“You lost one.”
“I noticed.” Thorin shook his head, he still had Kili who was asleep in his arms. Fili hated bath time, Kili liked playing in the water. “Can you send someone to get him, before he runs naked through the main square.”
“Would not be the first time.” Dwalin chuckled then stepped out to alert the guard only to find one of them had the squirming two year old in his hands. “I think that belongs here.”
“Yes sir.” The guard laughed, handing over Fili, who wiggled hoping to escape. It was his favorite tactic. “I have one at home.”
He rolled his eyes, securing the prince in his arms and took him back into the main rooms. “Should I drop him in the water?”
Thorin took his oldest and got him into the warm water before it got cold. “So explain to me why you are marrying Ori?”
“She is a good woman.”
Thorin gave him a hard look. “What about Nori?”
“You know settling down with him is not an option. It would scare him off. Besides, he is your spy master and is off doing things.” Dwalin watched as his King gave each boy attention, getting them to laugh, never once blinking at being splashed. Thorin was a great father, not many saw the panic attacks of trying to deal with two rambunctious kids, but Dwalin witnessed more than one but also saw him tell bedtime stories and sit on the floor to play with them. A few times one or both would be in his lap when people would bring their problems to the king. “Adad is pushing for me to marry. I am the Captain of the King’s Guard, a King who married before I did.”
Thorin sighed, frowning slightly. “Do you at least love her? I mean it is not right for either of you to be stuck in a loveless marriage.”
“I care for her. She is smart, adad has trained her in our oral histories and scribe work, and is proud of her skills. He thinks it is a good match.”
“And how does Dori feel about you marrying her sister so you can fuck her brother?”
“She chased me out of the house and last I heard Ori was screaming at her.” Dwalin ran his hands over his face. “I said she is smart, and knows my feelings for Nori, but also knows I am a good match. We can have a good life.”
“And will you stop seeing Nori?” He asked pulling Fili out of the water, wrapping him up in a warm robe Dori had made the boys when they were born, and said they would have room to grow. They took after their father, they were already close to needing a new set.
“Ori understands, stating at least Nori would not come home with an unwanted child.” He took Fili from Thorin’s arms and held him close, smiling when he laid his blonde head on his shoulder. “He understands the situation, no one is expecting him to marry.”
“Again and Dori?”
“Well let us hope Ori can out-talk her.”
“We married that winter.” Dwalin finished up the small story. “I’m sure Dori never really agreed with the situation, but understood there was nothing she could do. In the end Ori was happy, and that was the most important thing.”
“Why didn’t you two have kids?” Fili asked. “I mean you were always good with us, and I loved the stories Ori would tell us.”
“We tried. When a pregnancy did take, she almost didn’t survive it. The birth was bad, we all agreed that Oin was to save Ori over the baby. In the end she was able to give birth, but the baby had a defect of some sort, and survived for only a few days. One of those situations even in a modern world, the baby wouldn’t have made it. Ori was touch and go, but was able to get her strength back. It was decided after that, no children. Hence she spent a lot of time with you two.”
Kili leaned over and hugged Dwalin. “What was the baby’s name?”
“It was a girl and her name was Bari, a mix of their family name and adad. He held his granddaughter for a few moments, asking amad to take care of the little one in Valhalla. I wonder if I’ll see the little one again.”
“I like that name! I’m sorry that you went through that. It sucks that even now we can’t fix these types of things, and women still die in birth.” He wondered if he would’ve lost Tauriel, he shook his head now was not the time to think about it.
“Nori disappeared for a couple of years after that, it hit him hard the loss of his niece. He showed back up with some intel, that ended up being far worse than we ever anticipated.” Dwalin gave the boys a smile. “We sure have been on some old memory paths.”
“Enough of the past.” Thorin stood and grabbed a few bottles of wine and set them on the table. “Let’s enjoy the food my Mate has anxiously prepared and drink to family.”
***
Bilbo leaned against the doorjamb watching Thorin prepare for bed. There was a sense of contentment in their Bond, his Mate was happiest surrounded by family. He enjoyed the story Tolkien wrote, if he had no idea that it was based on a ‘true story’ would’ve have thoroughly enjoyed it. It was a great tale, filled with adventure. He didn’t recognize himself in the Hobbit, who had set off on that great adventure.
Well that wasn’t true – there were elements.
Bilbo remembered what it was like to pack up his bags and follow his ‘Dwarves’. But it wasn’t because he had been seeking a grand adventure, it was fleeing for his own life. Well, if he was truly honest with himself, even before he understood what Thorin would be to him, he would have followed the King without hesitation.
The moment he laid eyes on Thorin, he had fallen for him. Fallen hard. He had been set to be a confirmed bachelor, the town had given up on him, and the only reason they tolerated him was for his ability to grow food even in the harshest of climates. It was a skill he learned from his father, who had an idea that if one were to burrow slightly into the ground the house would be more secure and able to grow more types of foods if it was able to keep them warm.
Okay so maybe he was a Hobbit.
The Shire refused to help the refugees when they arrived into the village seeking a few days of shelter and food. All they had wanted was the ability to rest, take stock of supplies, and would even compensate for anything needed.
Everyone refused their offers, even the small tavern barred them from the premises. The Hamgees had told him about the situation when he returned from checking on a few of his livestock. He was horrified at the rudeness, and instantly went to search out the refugees.
Dori was the first one he met, she had complimented him on his fine waistcoat. He informed her it was made by his mother, and one of his favorites as she had died not soon after. They had talked for a few moments, then she introduced him to Dwalin.
“All we need is some rest, food, and we will be on our way. We are heading to the southern coast, and eager to get there. To be fully honest this could be dangerous for you.” The King’s guard gave him some information of why they were running. “Our King, Thorin, is seeking food, he will make sure you are compensated for everything.”
“My offer still stands.” Bilbo gave him a reassuring smile, thinking that the only thing that would be dangerous was the next Harvest Festival when he was snubbed by distant relatives.
It did not take long to figure out the dynamics of the group. Ori was well protected by her husband, brother and sister. She had yelled at all of them, and instantly made friends with Bilbo when she saw the few handwritten items he had.
“I have only seen a few.” She reached out and touched one of them. “I was able to write down some of our histories and lores, but they were all lost in the destruction.”
“Well guess you will just have to rewrite them!” Bilbo let her browse through the documents, even though it was likely she could not read them as they were in a different language.
Bifur, Bofur and Bombur stuck together, not quite part of the group but just as weary. Bombur helped with fixing a meal, explaining his mother was the King’s cook, and he had taken over her position. When he asked about the elusive King, the cook only had good things to say.
Sadly it had taken him a while to realize that Fili and Kili were twin brothers, and the sons of the King. Neither acted like princes’. They were typical siblings, though it was obvious Kili had lost someone dearly in the flight, as Fili was doing everything to take care of them.
Gloin was quiet but polite, mostly focused on his son, a five year old lad named Gimli. Bilbo found his old trunk of toys and let the boy take whatever he wanted.
It was Dwalin who had to keep ducking throughout the house. He had not realized how tall the guard was, let alone how small his home was.
“Do you have extra blankets?” Dwalin asked gruffly but politely.
“The hearth is warm, but there are a few.” He was not sure why they needed some, unless it was for the journey going forward.
“Thorin needs more space.”
Bilbo frowned. “What do you mean needs more space? My house may not be a castle but it is warm and everyone seems to fit fine, there is enough space for one more.”
Dwalin shook his head, then groaned when he hit his head on a beam. “Look, I barely fit … “
“Adad has arrived. I will update him on the situation.” Fili called out, heading out the door.
“I should also. I really do appreciate your hospitality but we will need a plate of food and blankets for Thorin, who will rest in your barn.” Dwalin patted his shoulder then headed for the door cursing as he hit his head again.
Well that was rude. Just because he was a King did not mean he was better than the others. He could sleep on the floor like the rest of them. How dare he say he would not fit, his own sons had no problem with the common folk.
An hour later, still fuming over the insult, he decided he would take the food and one small blanket out to the King and give him a piece of his mind. Bombur handed him a large bowl of food, which he set down and grabbed one of the smaller ones.
“Mr. Baggins …”
“If he does not come in, he gets a smaller portion.”
He ignored the cooks ramblings and headed out the door, towards the barn. Though he was a bit shocked that a King would stay in the barn, but then the whole thing had been odd. At least he did not force everyone in the barn while he took the house, that would have just been rude!
The moment he stepped into the barn, he ended up stopping in his tracks. Thorin was on his knees fixing some blankets for a makeshift bed, but what was shocking was the fact he was actually petting one of the sheep who came by to see what was going on.
“The blanket is not for you to eat.” He gave the sheep a side-eye then patted it on the head. “You do not want to make Dori mad, she made this especially for me.”
He did not seem like an arrogant asshole.
“Hi.” Bilbo startled when Thorin shifted to look at him. He had never seen such piercing blue eyes, and they bore right through him. “I brought food and a blanket. Dwalin said that you would not come inside …”
He lost his train of thought when the King stood, and as far as Bilbo was concerned kept standing. He had to take a step back to look up at the man.
And felt like an idiot.
His father had built their home into a small hill, and everyone had to step down through the door onto the floor. He already watched Dwalin have an issue with the door and ceiling, and the two boys seemed to stay seated on the floor most of the time. Thorin was taller than all of them, and there was no way he was fitting through the door.
Also explained why they were giving him the bigger bowl not because he was the King, but because he needed the food.
Bilbo shoved the bowl at him, and the blanket then ran off.
He came back a few moments later having ignored the boy’s snickers, Bombur’s smirk as he handed him the large bowl, along with Dori’s hard stare when she draped the larger blanket over his shoulder. Dwalin just rolled his eyes and opened the door for him.
“I apologize.”
“For what?” Thorin had settled on the blanket he had spread out on some hay. “You have been nothing but courteous Master Baggins for taking in us strangers.”
“I ahh may have labeled you as a snobbish King.” He set the tray down with more food, then the folded blanket. “I misunderstood that you will not fit in my house, I thought you saw yourself as too good for my home.”
Thorin chuckled, it was not the first time he did not fit into locations. “There are many places I do not fit.”
“I can see that!” He tried not to let his eyes roam over the very muscular body. “I have never seen anyone as tall as you.”
“Neither have I.” He finished down the stew, thankful for the warmth. “I want to thank you again Master…”
“No need. It was the right thing to do.” Bilbo smiled at him, and almost melted when Thorin smiled back.
He had it bad, and knew that if Thorin asked him he would follow him anywhere.
And he did.
Bilbo climbed into the bed, then onto his Mate, who just gave him a lopsided grin. “You know I don’t see you any different.”
“That’s because you’re a good man.”
“So are you!” Bilbo poked at his Mate. “I love you, and let me tell you I don’t love just anyone. They have to be decent, kind, strong, very very tall, beautiful long black hair, a loving father of two boys, and a King.”
“So glad I fit all those criterias.” He pulled Bilbo close, kissing him softly. “I’m sure that all this talk will bring back nightmares, be cautious.”
“I’m already prepared for the boys to raid.” He smiled at Thorin’s deadpan glare. “And I’ll make sure to wake you from a distance.” He had once woke him from a nightmare, and had a broken nose and black eye to show it. Luckily he fed quickly and no one noticed, but Thorin felt bad for weeks.
Bilbo curled into his Mate, enjoying the warmth he always provided. Despite the many hours of walking down memory lane, he was out instantly. Only to wake up cocooned by Durin’s. Bilbo shifted out of Thorin’s arms, and wiggled out from under Kili, then crawled over Fili until he made it off the bed, only to find Dwalin sprawled on the couch.
“Coffee?” He asked quietly.
“Add your sweet rolls and it’s a deal.” Dwalin gave him a tight smile, but reassuring. “Thanks for being here for them.”
“We’re family.” He reached over and squeezed his hand, then headed out of the room to the kitchen.
***
Kili tossed his bag into the back of the truck, then took the cup of coffee from his Mate. Fili pulled him close, giving him a quick kiss. Kili paused for a moment studying his brother, it had been an adjustment for both of them coming to terms what they meant to each other. But as time moved, centuries went by, he couldn’t imagine living this life without Fili as his Mate.
“You’re quiet.”
“I usually am compared to the rest of this family.” Fili gave him a small smirk.
Kili sipped his coffee and stared at his Mate across the rim. “Want to tell me what’s going on under those blond locks? Have they grown too long and they’re strangling your brain power.”
“Your’s can’t hold any brains in?” He rolled his eyes though the smile showed he enjoyed the bantering.
“I’ve known you all our lives, and can tell when something’s up.” Kili grabbed his brother’s arm and pulled him away from the truck and the packing that was taking place. “What’s going on, besides dredging up old memories because of a tale of a Hobbit.”
“We’re going to blame Uncle Bilbo?”
“No, dad would kill us.”
Both chuckled, though Kili turned serious. “Fess up, you know I can feel your anxiety and jumpiness.”
Fili sighed, running a hand through his blonde locks. “I’m not sure what I’m feeling to be honest. When Erebor was destroyed, we lost everything, some more than others. For me, after being Turned and finding forever with you – it wasn’t so bad. I mean, it was, because we were the only ones left, but I had you, Adad, Dwalin, and adopted Bilbo. We had a clan, a whole new way of life. Reading the book reminded me of the good times but also the fear I lived in.”
Kili squatted and set the coffee down then pulled his Mate into his arms, and just held him close. “You know adad would’ve never harmed you.”
“Do I?” He held on tightly. “I was the oldest, and everything was expected of me.”
Kili smacked his brother’s head gently. “Did he push you to marry?” Fili blinked at him not sure where this conversation was going or why they were even having it. “I stumbled through my courtship with Tauriel, badly I might add, but now feel much better knowing dad was the same.”
Fili chuckled as he remembered some of the sad pathetic attempts his brother made while trying to get the young woman’s attention. She had been a daughter of one of the refugees adad had taken in when they were twelve. She captivated Kili from the moment he saw her.
“It was still expected of me.”
Kili sighed, knowing this still bothered his brother, even after all this time.
“And learning about Dwalin and Ori. That was my future, I would’ve been lucky to find someone like Ori who understood or at least turned a blind eye.”
“Have you ever talked to dad about this?” He poked his brother slightly, his annoyance showing. “I mean really talk to him, not do the whole wander around a bush conversation.”
“No. I mean what’s the point.”
“The point is you’re still feeling guilty over something that you shouldn’t be!” He gave him a hard look. “Dad knew Tauriel was pregnant before we told anyone. Said he recognized the ‘oh dear god don’t let me fuck this up’ look on my face as he wore the same one when he foud out about us.” Fili chuckled lightly. “So I did what any good brother would do. I asked if he knew.”
“WHAT?!”
“You’re my brother and I was tired of watching you twist yourself in knots. So scared of disappointing dad, the kingdom, me, everyone.”
‘I have no idea what I am going to do.’ Kili sagged into one of the chairs, relieved he could talk about the situation. ‘How do I handle this?’
‘One day at a time.’ Thorin smiled at his youngest. ‘Right now she is doing all the hard work, make sure she has what she needs to stay healthy and is being taken care of. Afterwards, well no one is truly ready for being a parent.’
‘You always seemed like you were handling us well.’
Thorin laughed as he went over to one of the cabinets, and pulled out a bottle of alcohol. ‘I had no idea what the hell I was doing with you two, still do not. My goal was to raise you two in a loving home, not one filled with fear. Let you be your own men.’
‘You were a great adad.’ Kili took the offered drink and downed it coughing slightly. He ignored Thorin’s smirk. ‘You love us no matter what.’
‘There have been moments.’ He laughed lightly, getting lost in old memories. ‘There is nothing that would have me turn you away.’
‘Even if we refused to do what you wanted?’
Thorin sat down across from his youngest. ‘I hope my teachings taught you to do the right thing, not what I think you should do.’
‘What about Fili?’
He gave his youngest a small smile, knowing what he was asking. ‘If he thinks I do not know of his affections towards a certain guard, then he is not very observant.’
Kili’s eyes widened for a moment then blinked a few times. ‘But?’
‘Yes, he has duties to perform, and he has done them well. He has expectations, but there are always ways to handle any situation. Your marriage has taken some pressure off, and when it is time to announce the newest Durin, it will take off more. But be prepared for some of that pressure to land on you.’
‘We are brothers. There is nothing I would not do for him, or him for me.’ Kili sat up making sure his Adad understood the truth behind the words.
‘I am very proud of both of you. Let your brother know to come talk to me, he needs to get this out or it will do us all harm.’
“By the time I was going to convince you to have a conversation, that fucker showed up and destroyed everything.” Kili finished the story, noticing Fili’s shocked expression. “He didn’t care. As he didn’t care we were Mates, okay so that took time for all of us to adjust to, but he never stopped loving us.”
Fili nodded annoyed at the tears that were threatening to fall. He had contemplated giving the throne to Kili and Taurel, especially after they told the family about the baby. He could be their advisor, and not have the pressure of finding a wife and producing an heir, but he felt selfish pushing it onto Kili when it was his responsibility.
Then everything went to hell.
“Whose head do I need to smack?” Thorin looked at both of his boys, instantly noticing the emotional turmoil and his stance softened. “What’s going on?”
Fili was in his father’s arms in seconds, not holding back the tears. Why had it taken this long for him to have this conversation, to let go of so much guilt and pain. Thorin didn’t hesitate and wrapped his arms around his oldest and held on, feeling the turmoil through their Bond. He glanced at Kili who was wiping away his own tears, he opened one arm and huffed slightly from his youngest impact.
After a few moments when he could feel they were both calmer, he stepped back and looked at them. “Want to explain the angst and drama this early in the morning? I expect this from your Uncle Dwalin …”
‘Fuck You!’ Came from a distance, getting them all to smile.
“Dealing with some old guilt and fears. I’m sorry, I should’ve talked to you about everything centuries ago, but I just shoved it to the side as we all had a new life.”
Thorin leaned down, forehead settling against his oldests. “I shall give my own apologies, as I should’ve pulled this out kicking and screaming if need be. I love you, you’re my son. Nothing you have ever done has made me not love you.”
“I love you.” Fili whispered softly.
Thorin stepped back giving him a small smile. “This time when we arrive at Erebor and mourn for those lost, I expect Elor to be named with the rest. He died for you, and for that I will always be thankful.”
“Can I get in on the hugging?” Bilbo asked from the sidelines, smiling at his family. He squealed when Kili scooped him up, lifting him in the air. “This isn’t what I meant, Thorin!”
Fili joined his brother by stealing Bilbo then squeezed, causing him to wheeze.
“Put him down.” Thorin shook his head at their antics. “He’s delicate.”
There was some muttering and cursing, by the time Bilbo’s booted feet landed on the ground. “Is everything alright?”
“We’re good.” Fili gave him a real hug, holding him close for a few moments. Bilbo was a light for all of them, when they brought him along their journey. “Just old shit that should’ve been dealt with a long ass time ago.”
Bilbo patted his shoulder. “I get that, believe me. Well Dwalin is grumpy and wants to get going. Smaug already left, likely freaking out some poor radar technicians this morning.”
Kili grabbed his coffee then made his way to the truck, settling into the back followed soon by Fili. Thorin pulled Bilbo close. “This trip is going to be a hard one.”
“I don’t think so.” He leaned against his Mate. “I think it will be a good one, now let’s go before Dwalin makes us walk.”
Thorin pulled the keys out of his pocket, making Bilbo chuckle. Dwalin rolled his eyes at the two as they settled into the cab, Bilbo between them. “Let’s get on the road.”
***
Bilbo was sipping his coffee, munching on one of the muffins he made for the trip, talking with his Mate as they drove almost the same path they took when searching for Mod Clan all those centuries ago. He had to admit despite the bumpy ride in the transportation truck, it was much nicer travel.
Dwalin had fallen asleep a few hours into the trip, and considering how quiet it was in the box, Bilbo was sure the boys were taking a nap.
“What’s our main plan?” He asked while handing his Mate a muffin for him to snack on. “I mean besides just visiting.”
“I thought we would stop by The Shire first.” Thorin glanced over to his Mate, who frowned yet nodded. “I know it looks nothing like it was when we met, but this trip isn’t just about us and Erebor, you lost your home also.”
“It’s just weird being there. It’s not even the Shire anymore, which likely is a good thing with the book. There was nothing left, it was all destroyed.”
Thorin reached over and patted his leg. “Even after all this time, that still bothers me.”
“Thorin I would’ve died in my home, if it wasn’t for you and the company. So, believe me, losing some books and furniture was nothing.” He gave him a sideways look. “I never regretted meeting you, and the company. I never felt part of the Shire, and found a home with you.”
“This book has brought up a lot of old memories, good and bad.”
“Well at least you had more manners and didn’t just raid my house!” Bilbo scooted closer, laying his head on his Mate’s arm. “That Gandalf character is up to no good! I’m sure he’s going to be a nuisance in the next story.”
Thorin chuckled, shifting so he could wrap his arm around Bilbo. “At least it won’t be our adventure.”
“We’ve had a few of our own over the centuries.” Bilbo settled into his Mates’ warmth, a rarity with Vampires but one he took advantage of, especially as he was always cold like most Vampires.
Thorin ran warm, despite being well ‘dead’. When they spend time with the Medjai or at Masyaf during the hot summer, there were times he had to sleep away from the furnace that was his Mate. He had noticed the boys run a bit warm, but not as much as their dad.
He had talked to Morgana about it, and also Immutef, and they had no idea why his Mate ran warm, the only other person Immutef knew did the same was Daniel, and at times Rhys. Bilbo had seen the Welishman’s temper when it came to anyone who harmed his Mate, very much along the lines of Thorin when someone looked at Bilbo wrong, except the world didn’t shake – thank the gods.
“The past couple of decades have been way too adventurous.” He shook his head not wanting to think about the war, and the after effects. “How about we take some time out and just be us in our home, then do some travelling.”
“That sounds lovely, my dear.”
Bilbo startled awake when they pulled off to the side of the road, he sat up trying to figure out where they were, only to realize that Dwalin was driving and Thorin was napping, and he had been using him as a pillow.
“Where are we?” He asked groggily.
“Just outside what used to be The Shire. It’s a good place to stop.” Dwalin answered as he pulled the truck into an open area that was still defensible with the surrounding trees. “We could set up camp, and still have time to walk into town, get some food. At least this time people are more friendly.”
Bilbo didn’t say anything instead poked his Mate who just pulled him closer. “Thorin!”
“I was napping.”
“I didn’t feel like being used as a stuffed animal.” He unhooked the door and climbed over the giant taking up too much space.
“But you make a nice stuffed animal!” He laughed at the glare he got back, but eased his way out of the cab of the truck. Then promptly smacked the side to wake up the boys. “You better be awake and more importantly dressed.”
“DAD!”
He chuckled as he made his way towards where Dwalin was starting to set up camp. “Do you want me to send the boys into town, or leave them here to set things up.”
The once Head Guard paused, Thorin watched him go through all the pros and cons of the situation. “Leave them here with me. You can go with Bilbo.”
“Sounds good to me.”
“No hanky panky.”
Bilbo glanced over at Dwalin, a look of indignation with hands on his hips. “What exactly do you think we’re going to do? Find the nearest tree and have hot sex?”
“Yes.”
“Well you would be right!” Bilbo stormed off in a huff, making both of them laugh.
“I love how in the book he’s the odd Hobbit out.” Dwalin shook his head at Master Baggins’ antics. “I know we kept Fili and Kili’s relationship away from Tolkien, as it’s a difficult thing to explain as he knew they were your sons, but there were times I’m not sure how he handled the concept of Mates, let alone same sex couples.”
“He didn’t treat us differently, so that I will give him credit for, considering he could’ve turned us into authorities. We’ve seen how attitudes have changed over the centuries, ranging from we could be killed to accepted as long as we don’t showcase the relationship.”
Dwalin sighed. “We could have a long debate on this but I’m too tired and got way too much to do.”
“I’m going to find my Mate and a tree.” Thorin grabbed one of the smaller bags and shrugged it over his shoulder, ignoring his friend’s laughter.
Hours later the two returned, Thorin wearing a self satisfying smirk and Bilbo completely content. All three rolled their eyes at the two, but couldn’t help the small chuckle.
“It was that look when we knew something was up between the two of you when we were fleeing out of the Shire.” Fili gave his adad a pointed look.
Thorin settled onto the ground, enjoying the night fire and the fact Bilbo curled into his side. “That was such a confusing time. I had no idea what was drawing me to him, it was so similar to your mother but different.”
“You had the same besotted look.” Dwalin gave him a warm smile. “I knew you liked him at least, and it was the first time I had ever seen you have interest in anyone after Dis.”
“It was weird.” Kili added to the conversation. “But it was a good weird. I mean it took a moment, but Ori smacked both of us, saying you deserved some happiness. At the moment I was grieving so couldn’t even imagine being with someone else, boy did fate slam that into my face.”
“The Vampire part was a whole weird element we all had to come to terms with.” Fili bumped shoulders with his Mate. “Now I can’t see the two of you without smiling.”
“That’s ’cause we’re adorable!” Bilbo stated from his comfortable spot.
“Yes and watching dad lose his shit when someone does something stupid, always entertaining.” Kili caught the bag Dwalin tossed over to him, snagging the goodies Thorin and Bilbo brought back from the town. “How was the town?”
“Weird.” Bilbo sat up slightly. “I know it was hundreds of years ago, and there were moments when I could see my village, and then see a gas station, a grocery store, and post office and it’s just odd.”
“We were in Stockholm a few weeks ago, and Kili totally got turned around because the small park we were used to being in a specific location was gone and there’s an apartment building instead. The small doctor’s flat, on the corner, also gone along with a row of shops. Then again I remember when cars started showing up, which was cool and odd.”
“I’m sure I won’t recognize London when I get back, so much of it was bombed in the war and the rebuilding is massive. Seeing everything change is disturbing yet refreshing.” Dwalin added to the conversation. “And at times makes seeing our home as ruins hard.”
“I would rather see the rubble than find elements of our home in a museum. It’s good to showcase our heritage, but that would be too much for me.” Thorin reached up to touch a few of the beads in his hair that represented Erebor and his title as King.
“We will have to be more cautious.” Fili pointed his fork at his father as he ate the warm meal Bilbo brought back from one of the local restaurants. “Archeology has grown over the past decades. And since Norway got their independence from Sweden, and coming out of the war, there is a resurgence of finding one’s culture. It might not be developers we have to watch out for, but the archeologists. I mean look at the whole thing with Howard Carter and King Tutankhamun.”
“Irony both living in the Medjai right now.” Kili added as he stole his Mate’s roll. “But the point is, Erebor is a famous legend in Norwegian history. Add in the book. Scholars are going to wonder if it was based on fact and start looking.”
“Tut wasn’t too happy having his tomb opened.” Dwalin pointed out, then sighed. “I guess we should be happy we have a Dragon.”
“He swore to protect the remaining members of Erebor to our dying days, that includes the village.” Thorin smirked slightly. “Though that means we have to deal with his annoying ass.”
“You love him.” Bilbo teased his Mate
“No, no I don’t.” He gave him a hard look. “I tolerate his scaly ass, yet do appreciate his killing anything that touches what’s his.”
Bilbo rolled his eyes, while the other snickered. “How long before we get to Erebor? I’m ready to leave the Shire.”
“Three days’ drive, we’ll stop off in the small village that is at the bottom of the mountains, get the last set of supplies.” Dwalin answered, settling down into his sleeping bag. “The truck should get us most of the way there, but we might have to hike the rest of the way in.”
“Last time I was there the back stone structure of the Great Hall was still standing. We’ll be able to make shelter for a night or two.” Thorin shifted until their own bedding was prepped. “Boys take first watch.”
“Yes adad.”
“No hanky panky!” Dwalin glared at them.
“Yes amad.”
Bilbo snickered into his Mate’s shoulder, feeling Thorin’s own laughter. He wasn’t much on camping out, but as long as he was warm next to his Mate, he was good.
***
The path into Erebor was long and curved around the mountain. Despite the fact they had come in spring, there was still some snow on the ground, making the journey cold and miserable. Plus they started in the early hours of the morning, and sunrise had been a long way off.
Bilbo had only been to Erebor a few times, and most of the time he focused on just putting one front in front of the other, and kept walking. This time he took his surroundings in, thinking about the stories Thorin had recently told and tried to visualize the moments.
He had never been up to Smaug’s cave, the only person allowed near it was Thorin, and that was on a rare occasion or when he was retrieving something Smaug had stolen from a member of the clan. There was beginning discussion of figuring out a den or place Smaug could settle in closer to the clan, but no one could figure quite yet how to build a Dragon’s Den.
“Dwalin is this where you cornered Smaug?” Bilbo asked looking at the formation of the rocks, he could see how it was used by the Dragon to block people in, but also how Dwalin could use the high ground.
“Not quite but very similar.” Dwalin glanced around the area then back at Bilbo. “There’s a few winding paths like this that lead to Erebor. This is the main one that got us down the mountain to smaller villages to trade, specifically during the winter. The one we confronted Smaug goes North of the village, where it gets colder and rockier.”
“The path we fled was South.” Fili pointed towards as far as Bilbo was concerned more rocks and paths. “It was under the mountain, which is what gave us the advantage and distance we needed.”
“Do you ever think of rebuilding small sections?” He asked though if someone had asked him the same of the Shire he wouldn’t want to, but then that was a house not a home.
Kili shrugged. “Sometimes. Even if it’s just to see our home again, but then we’ve changed so much.”
“I get it.” Bilbo patted his arm, and he did. “I have elements of my old house in our home, but I wouldn’t know what to do if I walked around a corner and there it was.”
“I wouldn’t mind the Great Hall.” Thorin added to the conversation. “It was a community building, and after Thror was gone, became a place of warmth and family. But then if we did do something like that, those historians and archaeologists would be all over it.”
“We could totally do the living history type thing. I heard in the US there were some reenactors of their Civil War, and some in the UK.” Kili laughed lightly, getting the whole group to smile.
“I’ve met some who reenact and dress up as if they were fighting old Scottish battles.” Dwalin glanced back at the group. “I have to stop myself from correcting what they’re wearing and acting, stating that it didn’t quite go like they think it did.”
“Which would lead them to asking how would you know,” Fili chuckled.
“I don’t think saying I was there you moron would work out in my favor!”
The rest of the journey was mostly in silence, though each of them would take a moment and point something out to Bilbo, a few of the stories he had heard before but he let them have their memories, enjoying the tales. They reached Erebor a couple hours before nightfall.
The boys quickly made camp tucked into the back wall of the Great Hall. There was a section still fully intact, which gave them shelter from the elements, and they were able to have a nice fire. Kili grabbed his bow and arrows, to go hunting for some food, while Fili did a patrol around the area to make sure there wasn’t anything lurking in the shadows that wasn’t scaly and fire breathing.
Bilbo started to fix up a warm stew, getting the vegetables into the pot, along with making sure there was coffee brewing and heating up water for tea. Dwalin was moving around the area, setting up security, always the Captain’s Guard.
Thorin well he was wandering through the ruins.
Bilbo knew he was taking the time to remember his people, make his own tributes and prayers to those in Valhalla. He needed the time alone, and afterwards Bilbo will hand him some hot stew, and they’ll just sit quietly by the fire.
Kili brought back fresh game, skinned and prepped it for Bilbo who added the fresh meat to the stew. Fili dragged his Mate away for a few moments, both taking the time to mourn those they had lost. Now that it was more in the open, it was good to see them both remembering their lost loves.
Dwalin dragged Thorin off for a few moments, Bilbo never got upset that he was usually left alone in the camp cooking for his ‘dwarves’. This was their tragedy, he was here to support them. It was always easier for him to visit the Shire, though he rarely did. He didn’t lose anyone but annoying neighbors and family. He felt the loss of human life, but many of the residents weren’t kind to him.
“It smells good in here, brings back very good memories.” Thorin walked in smiling at his Mate. “Bombur would be proud of the meals still cooked in these halls.”
“It’s his recipe.” Bilbo returned the smile, leaning upwards to get a quick kiss. “I cheated though and brought along store bought bread.”
“Fiend!” Kili teased his Uncle. “Unless it’s the bread from that particular bakery.” The moment he saw the package he snagged it from Bilbo. “Then I’ve changed my mind, he’s my new favorite person.”
Thorin grinned when Bilbo handed him his own roll, then laughed when passed around to everyone. They ate in silence, all lost in their own thoughts, but it was comfortable. Thorin took the first watch, bundled up and headed out into the night.
Bilbo stayed by the fire keeping it fueled, waiting for his Mate to return.
At least there weren’t any trolls.
***
Dwalin had dragged Bilbo off to the North route to show them where they defeated Smaug the ‘Magnificent’ and point out where the cave was located. Thorin wasn’t happy about it, but he knew Smaug wouldn’t hurt Bilbo. For one the Dragon knew exactly what Thorin would do, and had seen him covered in Dragon’s Blood. But more importantly, Smaug actually liked Bilbo, while he tolerated the rest of them. He stated Bilbo had wit and charm, and was worthy of Smaug’s attention.
Bilbo wasn’t sure if that was good or bad, but he used it to his advantage when needed.
Thorin found himself in the main square of the village, watching his boys move around the ruins, lost in their own memories. They were laughing, he could see some watery smiles, it would seem the book had done a good job of finally putting old demons to rest. Even for himself, finally talking about Thror and what happened, knowing Bilbo didn’t look at him differently.
He should’ve known Bilbo wouldn’t be horrified at what happened with Thror, considering he had seen what he would do to those who went after his family. He had been there when he trained at Masyaf, the Assassin Order had helped channel all his energy to protect his family, into helping others.
“Adad.”
Thorin shook his head pulling himself out of his own lost thoughts and glanced over to see Kili watching him intently.
“Yes.”
“This whole thing has been one long trip in time.” Kili glanced behind him slightly to his Mate, holding out his hand. Fili took it without hesitation. “Dealing with stuff we should’ve done a while ago. On that note, we had a question. Though if you don’t really want to talk about it.”
Thorin glanced between them, and he could see that Fili letting go of some of his old fears, had helped. The two seem closer, stronger.
“I’m not going to like this question am I?” He made a promise not to yellno instantly, at least hear them out.
“You talk about amad a lot while we grew up. Told us how she loved us, and how beautiful of a person she was. Though I do love that you just told us how much of a dork you were.”
“Dorkiness, when it comes to those we love, is inherent Durin.” Fili added to the conversations.
“You don’t get to bitch now dear, after telling me how you asked Elor to patrol with you.” Kili gave his Mate a look, causing Fili to blush slightly.
Thorin chuckled softly. “Us Durin’s suck at subtlety and when it comes to those we love we either are the greatest of romantics or bumbling idiots, there is no in between.”
“Accurate.” Both boys laughed lightly, remembering some of their own attempts at romance throughout the centuries.
“You want to know what happened the day you two were born.” Thorin had a good idea where this conversation was going. “It’s not something you two should really know.”
“It’s something we’ve always wondered about. We were consciously always aware of it, and even as children heard the mutterings.” Fili pulled his shoulders back ready to hold his ground. “We know you never blamed us, loved us despite losing amad, but we also lived our lives knowing we were the reason she died.”
Thorin frowned then took a deep breath. “To be honest the blame for her loss could be set on a few people, myself included. It was obvious since I was born that I wasn’t normal. My own amad barely survived my birth, I was pushing 6 kilos when I was born. Luckily, your grandmother was from a strong built family. She always stated I took after her grandfather, who was a strong warrior and a mountain of a man.”
Kili frowned slightly, not sure where this was going.
“Dis was a strong woman, but she was also about four inches smaller than your grandmother, and over a foot smaller than me. You two inherited my height, and were not small when you were born, even as twins.” Thorin gave them a small smile. “We didn’t even realize she was carrying twins until a couple of months before you were born. Oin thought the baby was going to be like his daddy, a big one.”
“Instead one turned into two.” Fili knew that birth was never easy for women, medical improvement had helped over the centuries.
Thorin chuckled lightly. “I have no idea which one of you it was, but one was kicking hard. I had my hand on her ever growing belly, every time I shifted there was movement and another kick. Except while getting kicked on one end, Dis had her hand on the other side and suddenly she got a kick. Now unless there was some major acrobats going on, that shouldn’t have been normal.”
“He still kicks in his sleep.” Kili motioned towards his Mate.
“The amount of bruises I got when you two were kids and would climb into my bed. I fought battles with less injuries.” He gave them a look, though his smile took away from the threatening tone. “Oin announced soon after Dis was having two … ” He sighed and looked away, focusing on the hills beyond the village. “We were delighted and terrified. That night Dis made me swear that I would choose your lives over hers, if something went wrong.”
“What went wrong?” Fili asked, it was the one thing they didn’t know. They knew she didn’t survive the birth, but not what had gone wrong.
“I wasn’t allowed in the room, when she went into labor.” Thorin moved to one of the ruins and sat down, elbows resting on his knees. “I ignored Oin when her screams switched, they went from an uncomfortable pain, to fear…”
‘You should not be in here.’ Oin yelled as Thorin moved to his wife’s side. ‘Your Highness this is not a place for … ‘
‘I do not care.’ He settled next to Dis, taking her hand. ‘I am here.’
‘I hate you so much.’ She growled, taking his hand, holding it tight. ‘Thank you for being here.’
‘What do you need from me?’
‘Just hold me.’ Dis gave him a tired smile, then bit back another moan as she bore down, pushing out their child. ‘This one takes after you!’
‘You are more stubborn than I am!’ He got her to smile, shifting so she could lean against him. He used his strength to help steady her as she pushed. It seemed to last forever, until he felt her sag against him exhausted and the room was filled with the cries of their baby.
‘Tis a boy.’ Oin wrapped the baby up and handed him to Dis. ‘Takes after his father.’
Dis gave her husband a side glare, but smiled at her son. He had her hair, but was obviously a Durin, with that build and scream. The midwife cleaned him up, then handed him back to his parents who held him close while talking softly.
‘Fili.’ She leaned into Thorin, content in that moment.
Thorin took Fili from her arms when the second baby wanted attention.
It was then everything started to go wrong.
Oin yelled for the midwife to take Fili, and to get him more cloths. After several moments of him cursing, Dis crying in pain with tears coming down her face, Thorin knew something was going horribly wrong. He had also seen the midwife put a long iron tool next to Oin.
‘What is it?’ He asked holding his wife carefully, while wiping the sweat and tears from her face.
‘The second wee one is turned.’ Oin looked at the parents with dread. ‘They will not shift, and we are running out of options to save them.’
‘Cut them out.’ Dis growled at the doctor. ‘I will not let you kill them.’
Thorin glanced at his wife, but her look had him closing his mouth instantly. They had discussed options from the beginning, even more so when they discovered there were two babies.
‘I have only done it once, on a sheep!’ Oin looked at Dis with an imploring gaze. ‘I could lose you both.’
‘And you can save us both.’ She gritted out, breathing through the contraction. ‘Cut them out.’
Oin glanced at Thorin, seeking permission. He was the King and despite what Dis wanted he could overrule her wants. He knew what they would have to do to get the baby out, and that was as terrifying as cutting his wife open.
‘I trust you Oin.’
Ten minutes later they had a second boy in their arms. He was quieter than his brother at first, but then he let out a mighty cry, letting the world know he had arrived. He was a bit smaller, and had Thorin’s dark hair, and loudmouth. Oin wrapped him up and handed him to Thorin, while setting out to do everything he could to save the Queen.
Hours later, he found Thorin in the nursery looking down at his two sons. They had been cleaned up, fed by a wet nurse, and at the moment were taking a nap.
‘What bad news do you bring me?’
‘I have tried everything, my King.’ Oin looked down at the two babies smiling softly at how much they looked like their parents. ‘She has lost too much blood.’
Thorin nodded, for a moment he closed his eyes and let the grief hit him. With a few deep breaths, he picked up his sons, and went to his wife’s side. Dis smiled at him, taking Kili into her arms as he slid next to her in the bed with Fili.
And there he stayed, talking about what great men they will be. How he will love them with both of their hearts. She passed to Vahalla in the early morning, surrounded by those who loved her. Thorin suddenly found himself alone with two boys to raise.
Both boys were crying by the time their adad finished the story, and surrounded him practically crawling into his lap. He held onto them tightly, for a few moments, before laughing lightly. “You are too big for this!”
Fili stepped back, but Kili held on tighter. “I’m sorry…”
“Don’t even go there.” Thorin stood lifting his youngest onto his feet. “You will not take the blame.” He gave him a pointed look, making sure Kili was paying attention. “It was a tragedy. I never blamed you, there was nothing but love since the moment I held both of you. Hell if you want to get down to the nuisance of blame, I’m the one who got her pregnant.”
Both boys blushed, making Thorin laugh.
“Did anyone make a fuss?” Fili asked quietly. He had heard a few things while growing up, remembered going after a few kids who had made comments.
“A few.” Thorin still held onto Kili. “Most shut up after I had a talk with them.”
“Basically you threatened them with Dwalin.” His oldest smirk showed his approval.
“I didn’t need to threaten them with Dwalin, he did that on his own. There was one who refused to back down, would tell anyone that Kili was a bad omen of things to come. I had them brought to the throne room.”
‘You have anything to say about my son?’ Thorin sat on the throne staring down at the women, who had spread rumors around the village.
‘Your son is beautiful and will do you proud.’ She stated with ease. ‘I only spoke about the demon…’
‘Enough!’ He stood from his throne and walked down the steps towering over her. ‘You dare speak of my son in those terms.’
‘Your Majesty, you must see that he has brought death.’ She stepped back when Thorin moved closer. ‘It is a bad omen and should be left to the elements, sacrificed or this village will be destroyed!’
Thorin took a calming breath, unclenched his hands then stepped back. ‘You are banished from this village. The guards will let you pack for the journey, and then escort you down the mountain.’ Thorin glanced at Dwalin, who gave him a nod. ‘Your family’s fate will depend on how much they are willing to stand by your lies about the prince.’
Dwalin walked up and took the woman’s arm. ‘You will see your majesty – it will be because of him that this village will fall!! He is of the devil!’
“Dwalin escorted her home, her husband and oldest son refused to help her. The oldest daughter stated that she had been talking to the villagers in the south, during the summer trades. They had told her of a new religion, about a devil who bewitched people and brought damnation.”
Thorin shook his head at the memory. He had sent out Nori to learn more about this religion. It was ironic that it was the beginning of a local Catholic church, one that centuries later would have him interrogated for witchcraft as he was obviously evil because of his strength.
Well he also had stood up to the local Bishop who was raiding the coffers for his own gain.
Not that, had anything to do with the accusations.
“I’m guessing it was the Catholic church or the early stages. Was it the same group that later cut your hair thinking you were Sampson?” Fili asked incredulously. “I mean, it couldn’t be. Could it?”
“It was, kinda.” Thorin sighed heavily. “Maybe not the same exact group, but it was the early church, which developed into those bigoted hypocritical assholes.”
Kili closed his eyes for a moment as if trying to contemplate the whole thing. “So what you’re saying is that some woman in our village was influenced by radical missionaries and because amad died in birth said I was a demon to bring ruin down on the village?”
“Yeah.”
“Wow.”
“Not that the two of you weren’t hellions while growing up, but demon was pushing it.” He smiled at his two boys. “Do you two finally believe me when I say I’ve never blamed you.”
“You never made us feel responsible. There were times while growing up, kids would pick on Kili, I guess enough got around. I beat the shit out of them until Kili got big enough to do it himself.”
“I’m only fifteen minutes younger, you asshole.” He rolled his eyes at his Mate. “And I might point out, I ended up taller than you.”
“Which is so wrong.” Fili shook his head, glaring at their father like it was his fault somehow. “By the time we hit puberty people stopped making comments. By that time our height and fighting skills were starting to be known.”
“Well that and Dwalin threatened everyone behind you, and Nori found all the dirt on them.” Thorin laughed at their indignant expressions. “There was a reason I had you boys do extra sessions in hand-to-hand. I let you fight the battles together.”
“When did we lose grandpa?” Kili asked out of the blue. “You mentioned amad’s dad and that he was a good guy, but I don’t have any memories of him.”
“The winter after you were born was extremely wet and cold. We had enough supplies to get through it, but he had come down with a cough that wouldn’t go away despite what Oin tried. Personally, I think he was ready to go to Valhalla to be with his wife and daughter. He loved you boys, spent many hours watching you, so I could sleep.”
“Shame we don’t remember him.” Fili frowned, wishing he could’ve gotten to know him.
“Did we keep you up at night?” Kili teased their father, then laughed at his groan and epic eyeroll. “We weren’t that bad? Were we?”
“You two were menaces when it came to sleep schedules. I get Fili to sleep, you would wake up, get you back to sleep, Fili would wake up. There would be maybe one hour if I was lucky, that you would both be asleep.” Thorin started to head back to their camp, the kids following along high-fiving each other over their antics. “It got so bad that I fell asleep on the throne while listening to some land dispute. Balin lost his mind, the two arguing were upset, but one had kids so understood. I woke up tucked under three blankets, with a bad crick in my neck, but it was the longest I had slept in months!”
The two lost it completely, and just fell into uncontrollable laughter.
“What are the hyenas laughing about?” Dwalin asked as they entered their makeshift camp.
“The time I fell asleep on the throne.” Thorin couldn’t help his own chuckle.
Bilbo pulled his Mate down for a kiss. “I do not know how you can just fall asleep anywhere. I’ve seen you nap against the wall. Very uncomfortable and so uncouth.”
“Says the man who has used every inch of me as a pillow.” Thorin nuzzled Bilbo’s neck, chuckling at small giggles then humph as he stole another kiss before pulling away all indigent. “I see Smaug hasn’t eaten or tried to fry you to a crisp so it must have gone decently.”
“He let me tour his cave.” Bilbo announced in a tone that was a mix of pride and worry. “I saw the crystal, he has it on a high rock, almost like a pedestal with light coming down on it. Felt like I was looking at an ancient religious relic.”
Thorin was slightly impressed. “He really trusts you to show you the crystal, just to even let you in the cave.”
“He was kinda a kid showing off his shiny toys. I couldn’t help but laugh over a few odd pieces, and grabbed this.” He held up a pocket watch, the look on his face stated everything.
“I knew he had taken it, but had no proof.” Thorin took it from Bilbo and checked the time piece, it would need a clean and some work. “I’ll get it fixed so you can have it back.”
“Thank you. It’s one of my favorite gifts from you.” Bilbo took it back from his Mate, holding it gently. Thorin had given it to him on one of their anniversaries, it was the inscription that made it precious. ‘Every moment with you is timeless’. It had gone missing the year before, Thorin had growled at Smaug, but the dragon wouldn’t admit anything. “I wondered if that’s why he let me in the cave, to get the watch but not admit to the theft.”
“That lizard won’t admit to a theft even if he has the item in his claw while you’re accusing him!” Kili shook his head, remembering the few times Smaug stole items from them. One time he had dad go get a dagger he had specifically made for Fili, and while Thorin was there, he picked up a locket that Fili had made for Kili.
“Well dragon’s horde.” Thorin sighed as they settled around the fire, fixing up some lunch.
“Toothless doesn’t!” Fili pointed out, exasperated. “Neither does Draco!”
“Drogo either.” Bilbo added to the conversation.
“Well this one does, and we’re not getting rid of him anytime soon. As he swore to protect the last survivors of Erebor until our deaths.” Thorin pointed out, though his tone sounded more resigned than happy about the situation. “And as annoying as he can be, we all have to admit he has come in handy.”
Every single one of them sighed and grumbled out an agreement.
“Did he ever tell you why he changed his mind and showed up to fight?” Dwalin asked.
“No.” Thorin had always wondered what had caused the dragon to suddenly show up, when it had seemed obvious he turned against them. Though he didn’t attack anyone in Erebor, he had failed in protecting the village. “The fact he has stayed by our side since then, shows to me at least, that he is taking the oath seriously. This time.”
“Do you truly trust him?” It was something Fili had wondered about over the many centuries they had the dragon in their midst.
Thorin paused for a few moments before answering. “If you asked me that question during our flight out of Erebor, I would’ve said no. Even after he swore his loyalty, and guided us to Builwyf, I honestly did not trust him with our lives.” He stood making his way towards the hole in the wall, staring past the village towards Smaug’s cave. “After we returned from our travels, Smaug grabbed me to deal with the black demon that destroyed the village. I don’t talk about what happened, because it’s not fully my story. But after that, what we had to do and trust in each other to survive – I trust him enough to do the right thing. The bastard will still steal shit that isn’t his, but he will fight by my side.”
He turned back around to face his family giving them a half shrug over the situation. “It’s harder in today’s society as stories of dragons are old myths and just legends. Not like he can land in the middle of Oslo any time soon. But he has protected Erebor, making sure no one comes up here. It’s not just Nazi bones scattered in those hills.”
“And if that bastard comes back?” Kili asked.
“Oh I think it would be a race to see which one of us gets to the bastard first.” Thorin growl was low and deep. “One day I’ll take that bastard’s head, the rest of you can fight over the leftovers.”
***
The next day Bilbo found Thorin standing where the throne had been located. He watched as he walked the area, as if trying to remember every detail of what the room looked like. Dwalin was standing towards the back of the throne area, watching Thorin. Fili and Kili were standing to the right, both lost in their own memories.
“What did it look like?” Bilbo asked. This wasn’t his first trip to Erebor, but the previous trips he had stayed back, making sure they had warm food and were taken care of, while they all handled old memories. This trip was inspired due to a story of their adventure, which was making the loss of their home in the forefront of their minds and memories.
“It was huge.” Kili was the first to speak. “Well it seemed huge when I was a kid. I remember looking up to adad sitting on the throne and thinking everything was just grand. There were times we would sit on the throne with dad, and man I felt powerful.”
Fili chuckled lightly. “Dad smacked any ego we had pretty quickly. I remember I was about ten, when I made some comment about being a Prince and the people had to listen to me. That wasn’t a pleasant talking to.”
“I got the same one not soon after.” Kili leaned against his brother. “But as for the hall, it was big. I know it doesn’t seem like it now, with most of it just ruins. But there were hallways off to the side, with more rooms. The main gathering location to eat and celebrate was just off to the left of there.” He pointed towards the back of the room. “Which was another larger room. But I remember roaring fires during the winter, there were always people wandering around, some who told great stories. It was never dark, never intimidating.”
“There were always animals around.” Fili added to the conversation, it looked as if he was lost in the memory, as if he was standing back in time. “I remember one year, there were sheep in the dining hall!”
“It was the only place we had to keep them that year.” Dwalin chuckled at the memory. “The sheppards had taken most of the herds down to the valley for the winter. We always left the older ones in the village for use of wool and food. But that was a cold year, so more stayed behind. We also ended up moving more of the villagers into the area to keep warmth.”
“It was a bit crowded that year.” Thorin glanced around the open ruins. “It was that spring our friends showed up asking for our help for their village that had been raided. It didn’t matter that we were just coming out of a rough winter, I wasn’t going to let others starve.”
“And idiot over her completely humiliated himself in front of everyone when he laid eyes on Tauriel.” Fili smirked at his brother, who blushed slightly.
“I was twelve.”
“Durin’s suck at courting.” Dwalin gave the three a pointed look.
“I don’t know about that.” Bilbo spoke up from where he was exploring. “Thorin had a good courting style. Saved my life, then horribly flirted during the flight to freedom. Only to discover about Vampires and Mates. The courtship moved pretty good after that!”
Thorin glared at his Mate. “I would like to remind you about the flowers you kept slipping into my pack, and not telling me what they meant.”
“Didn’t help Gimli ate most of them.” Bilbo huffed softly, but couldn’t help the grin. “I know the jist of what happened, but we’ve all been on memory lane, what exactly went down?”
Dwalin glanced over at Thorin, who paused for a few seconds then gave a small nod. He shifted a few feet, then settled on the very spot the throne once stood. The boys took their places close by, while Dwalin slid into protection detail.
Bilbo blinked and suddenly could see the hall in all its glory.
The throne made of stone, with intricate carvings that showed the village’s history, stood on a small platform, with steps that led up to it. The large fireplace lit and burned bright, keeping the room warm, but not uncomfortable. There was seating around the room, but only for those who were in need. Anyone who would seek the council of the King stood to make their request.
Had no problem seeing Thorin on the throne, never one to be pretentious, clothes simple in nature, just enough armour for protection. His crown barely noticeable, never wearing the one his grandfather used. Orcist leaned against the throne’s side easily able to be grasped.
Fili in his armour, showing his rank in the guards, weapons seen and unseen, standing at his father’s right, just one step down from the throne. It was the place where the first born prince would stand during court, a place where he would learn how to rule.
Kili wore clothes that showed him as the prince, no armour but never unarmed, his bow and arrows slung across his back, easily at hand. His place, a few steps down from Fili, on the ground level. Though he had never met Tauriel, he could see her in a soft green dress, staying on the sidelines by the fireplace. Where she could watch intently, but not be easily seen. Much like her husband, armed but not nearly as obvious.
Dwalin stood at his King’s left, the armour showing him as the Head of the Royal Guard. His battle axe strapped to his back, while the hammer rested in front of him. He may have looked like he was leaning against the hilt, but everyone knew that he could swing before anyone got near the King.
Balin at the foot of the throne, his age showing with a full head of white hair, along with his flowing white beard. Though tired and soon to retire, he stood tall and never once wavered in his position no matter who asked an audience of the king.
Nori in the shadows, likely near one of the hallways that led to the private rooms. Always watching and listening, finding information for his King.
Smells would be coming from the Great Hall, and if quiet enough could hear Bombur’s soft voice singing as he fixed food for the king and all those who needed a warm meal.
Gloin was rarely in the throne room, he was focused on making sure the king’s coffers were full. Plus checked supplies, making sure there was enough for a cold winter. Usually his wife would help with the inventories, and Gimli liked to act like his adad.
Oin made sure to be available. He had patched up the king and his boys too many times to count. He was concerned for young Tauriel and her pregnancy not wanting to lose her like they had Dis. He had been spending the past ten years training a new healer and midwives.
Ori was with her sister, working on projects for the winter. If Balin needed her, he would have her summoned to the throne room. Lately, he had her sit in meetings, making sure that the nobles knew she was to be his replacement, whether they liked it or not! They could take it up with Dori if they didn’t, that is if Dwalin didn’t get to them first.
Bofur and Bifur had no ideas about the comings and goings of royalty. They were miners, and experts on the minerals in the area, and how to best work the forges to make weapons and tools for the villages. Bifur was interested in the new black powder they had received from a trade from the far east. It made fires burn hotter but more in the form of a flash than a long burn.
Winter was just starting to approach, when their destruction walked through the door.
***
“Your Highness, a nobleman from a far distance, has come to talk about an alliance.” Balin bowed his head slightly, gaze shifted to Dwalin, then to the King. He turned back towards the doors just as they opened, to show a set of nine guards, wearing dark almost black armour from head to foot. There was nothing visible, only swatches of black cloth wrapped around their necks and shoulders. They spread out in the room, instantly sending everyone’s hackles upwards.
Dwalin motioned quickly towards the guards to move away from the walls and to be prepared. He noticed the boys shifted into a ready stance, both had done it with ease that barely anyone noticed. Balin moved closer to the middle of the room blocking the path directly to the King. Even Tauriel stepped further into the shadows, to protect herself and the unborn child, but also get a clear shot if need be.
Thorin sat up on his throne, watching intently.
No one sought an alliance and sent in nine guards heavily armed.
The man who walked in was confident, arrogant, and bowed to no one. He was tall, but still smaller than Thorin and his boys, which the nobleman frowned at instantly. His blonde hair was swept back, but still fell into his face as if trying to play an innocent boy. His armour was as dark as his guards, and his hand rested on the hilt of his sword.
“My Lord.” Balin spoke up, holding his position not allowing the man the ability to get close to the King. “Welcome to Erebor, we look forward to having an alliance that will be mutually beneficial.”
“I think you have misunderstood my intentions.”
“Then what are your intentions?” Thorin asked, voice low and deadly, as he sat forward on the throne.
“I had a deal with the previous King, and I expect it to be honored.” He held the King’s gaze, not backing down, though a small frown formed when Thorin refused to turn away.
“I have been King for many years, and grew up in these halls, and have not once seen you.” The King smirked only slightly. “Any deal made with my predecessor will not be upheld. I am willing to discuss future alliances.”
“That is not how this will go down.” He dismissed Thorin with a hand gesture and proceeded to move around the room, yet made sure to stay near his guards. “I was promised this village in exchange for a personal favor.”
“Considering Thror is no longer King, the payment is void. I do not fulfill my grandfather’s favors.” Thorin stood as he snagged Orcist and stepped next to his son. “Who are you to come into my home and make such demands.”
“You can call me Sauron.”
“Well Sauron, you can turn around and leave.”
“I do not think so.”
The tension was thick, everyone was in a defensive position waiting to see who would make the first move.
The moment Sauron hand shifted on his sword, his guards moved only to be instantly countered by Thorin’s own men. Balin pulled a dagger and with exceptional aim, threw it right into the neck of the closest guard, then moved out of the fighting circle. He knew his age would be a hindrance, and he taught his boy well.
Dwalin smirked at his adad’s perfect hit, then swung his battle harmer, taking out the guard aiming for the king, knocking him against the wall. He ignored the crunch of bones, and moved on to the next guard without hesitation, only this time he had his axe in the other hand.
Kili stepped back, pulled his bow and arrow, and in three consecutive shots, took the nearest guard out by getting an arrow, through the slit in the helmet. He shoved the bow back on his back, realizing quickly it was not going to work in such an enclosed space, and pulled his sword. There was a small chuckle when a dagger flew by his shoulder towards the advancing guard it bounced off the armour, but it distracted him enough for Kili to get under the defense and with some trial and error he finally found a weak point and swung the sword straight for the neck.
Fili took point next to his advancing father, making sure to keep the guards occupied while Thorin confronted the bastard who thought he could walk in and just demanded the throne. He signaled his own men, who gathered around him noticing instantly that Elor was by his side.
“I am impressed.” He glanced around, noticing his guards had a slight fight on their hands. “You must be the grandson he complained so much about.”
“I guess I am.” Thorin easily settled into a defensive position, with Orcist ready. He trusted Dwalin and his boys to keep the guards at bay, so he would not need to be distracted while facing the main culprit. “I do not know what deals you made with Thror, but believe me he would not have honoured them.”
“He was an asshole.”
“I am sure the two of you got along nicely.”
The move was fast, but Thorin was able to block then counter the attack. He stepped back, taking the second hit with ease, before pushing forward forcing Sauron off balance. His sword slid downwards, then with a quick maneuver he brought it up, using his fist holding the hilt and aimed for the bastard’s jaw, smirking at the sound of bones breaking.
Sauron stepped back, eyes narrowed as he spat blood onto the floor. “You are not your grandfather.”
“Thank you, that is the only decent thing you have said since you walked into my throne room.”
Sauron’s laugh was dark, it sent shivers down Thorin’s spine. It was then he knew, just like when met Smaug, something was not right about the situation. The fight between them escalated, the hits were hard, taking his breath away at times, then at one point he felt a few ribs give, but he held his ground and kept fighting.
He could hear the battle raging around him, something he never thought would happen in his own throne room. Thorin could not be distracted despite the yells from his boys and the growl from Dwalin. Sauron moved fast, but with the area so small there was no space for a big elaborate fight, and it quickly divulged into dirty tactics.
Thorin grunted in pain when the short sword slammed into his stomach, and knew instantly it was a fatal wound. And if there was one thing Thorin was not going to allow, was this man taking his son’s throne. He grabbed Sauron’s hand and pulled the sword from his side. Then with a snarl, he twisted it out of his enemies hand, and slammed it through the weakest part of the armour, straight up into Sauron’s chest.
“We can die together.”
Sauron knocked Thorin’s feet out from under him, landing on top grunting in pain as the king still held tightly onto the weapon. “Well Thorin son of Thror, we will see how you handle the afterlife.” With a snarl he grabbed the long hair, yanked his head up and bit down on the exposed neck, causing Thorin to cry out in pain.
He leaned back, licked his bloody lips, then with a wicked grin yanked the sword from his wound, sliced his palm open and wiped across the King’s mouth. “I will be back for my village.”
With a flair of the dramatic, Sauron stood and tossed the sword to the ground. Gave a bloody smirk to the rest of the family, snapped his fingers and the guards followed him out the door.
“ADAD!” Fili was the first to get to him, crashing to the ground trying to stop the flow of the blood. “No you are not doing this! Amad would be pissed if you left us now!” He looked up to see Kili standing still in shock, with Tauriel holding onto his arm. “OIN!”
The healer was by their side in moments. “Get him to his room. Dwalin grab my kit … move boy.” The guard nodded and ran off. “Fili I need your help getting him up, he has always been a big lad.”
With the help of the other guards they got the King into his chambers, laid out onto the bed.
Fili paced the room.
Everything about the space was his father. The bed was oversized, Dwalin had told them, it had been specially made when Thorin became king, as he needed the space. Fili had found memories of curling up to his father on stormy nights, or when he had bad dreams. Never once had his adad turned him away.
The fireplace was burning bright, a chair covered with one of Dori’s blankets looked as if its occupant had just left, which was likely. As Balin had called Thorin to the throne room when Sauron had arrived in the village.
The desk had the beginning stages of maps in the area laid out for studying. There were a few scattered weapons, along with a set of runes, and a few pages that Ori had given the King. Some of the history of the village was finally documented.
It was a place Fili always felt safe, and now he only felt panic as he watched Oin strip Thorin, to get to the wound.
Balin had slipped into the room, bring Oin his gear that he had sent Dwalin after. He had told his son to keep watch, not wanting him in the room. He knew his boy was not going to take the death of his King with ease. He stood quietly near the desk, and watched with sad anticipation, he had not wanted to outlive his King.
Oin cleaned the wound then dressed it. He once again felt helpless, as he could not stop the blood loss. He prayed to the gods, begged them not to take this one, he had lost so many over the years, but Thorin was supposed to live to be an old man. With a pained sigh, and tears in his eyes Oin looked over at Balin, then to Fili, his expression said what he could not utter.
The King was dead.
The young Prince shook his head. “No! I refuse. No. I am not ready to be King. Adad will just have to survive this. I can not do this! I am not ready.”
“Fili.” Balin walked over to the young man, taking his hands. “He raised you to be King.”
“I do not care. He was supposed to live to see his grandchild, and spoil them like he did us. He is supposed to die an old man with hair like yours, surrounded by family. I refuse …” Tears were streaming down his face, he tried to wipe them away only to spread blood over his cheeks. With a cry he moved to the wash bowl and cleaned his hands having no idea if it was his or adad. “I cannot do this.”
“You can.” Balin assured him. “You have Kili and Tauriel. You will have Dwalin and myself. Plus Ori will be a good adviser. Elor will not see anything happen to you.” Fili glanced over to the closest thing he had to a grandfather, catching the small tell. “Thorin was proud of you and raised you to be King.”
Fili let the tears fall. “How do I do this without him?”
“We do it together.”
“Balin!” Oin’s tone was nothing either of them had ever heard. If there was one thing Oin never did, was panic. And at the moment his voice was on the edge of panic.
The two turned to see Oin standing by the bed, but the shocking part was the groan coming from the occupant. Thorin’s hand clinched at the sheets, a pained moan ripped from his throat. He then sat up, gripping at his stomach.
Thorin always had bright blue eyes, but at the moment they were the color of a winter storm. But what had caught Balin’s attention was the wolf-like fangs, and the wild expression. “Thorin?”
“I do not feel right.” He glanced at Oin, then looked down, pulling away the dressing to see a perfectly healed stomach. There was no wound, and only dried blood across the flawless skin. “What did he do to me?”
Fili moved to the bed in an instant, taking his father’s hand, then touching his face before leaning forward to hold him close. “You are alive.”
“I am not sure about that, but I am here.” He held his son, barely remembering hearing his panicked voice. Regretting he was going to leave them all behind. “I saw your amad, and gamul amad.” He let go of his oldest, then shifted on the bed until he was sitting upright, feet on the floor. “They told me it was not my time. That the gods had a plan. I have a feeling I am not going to like it.”
“You were dead, your highness.” Oin started to examine the king. There was no sign of the injuries. The only signs of his death were the aftereffects of what death brings. “Then you woke and are healed. It is a miracle.”
“But what am I?” He asked with concern.
The doors banged open, Kili looked between his brother and father. “Oh thank the gods.”
“Get Tauriel and find Dwalin, we have a long night ahead of us.” It was the first time Fili sounded like a true King.
***
“We had no idea about Vampires, but learned quickly on how to handle the situation.” Dwalin had sat down during the story. “I knew the wound was fatal, it was why Oin sent me to get his gear. I wasn’t shocked adad had me ‘guard’ the door. Instead I found a small corner and lost my shit.”
“Tauriel held me as I crashed onto the throne room floor.” Kili added to the conversation. “I was more in shock than grief at that moment. The guards had no idea what to do, so they cleaned up the mess and then stood guard over myself and Tauriel. I finally came to my senses and ran to adad’s room. I needed to say goodbye, only to find him sitting there like he got up from a nap!”
“He said ‘Son of Thror’.” Bilbo was sitting next to his Mate, holding his hand. He did not like hearing how Thorin had died. Though he knew it was what led him to the Shire, to Bilbo, it was hard to hear it all take place.
“What?” Thorin glanced at his Mate with a confused expression.
“He did not say Thorin son of Thrain son of Thror, just son of Thror.”
Thorin stared at him, blinking rapidly for a few moments. “I do not want to think about that, let’s just go with Sauron being a complete asshole.”
“Sounds good.” Dwalin knew the thought was going to stick, but he did not want to deal with it today. “Balin made an announcement to the village that the King had been attacked, he was injured but resting. It was Ori who figured out he needed blood, after Nori had explained what he had seen Sauron do. Bombur did not ask, when she asked for a lamb to be slaughtered and the blood collected.”
“Ori was the smart one of our company.” Kili stepped closer to his brother, taking his hand squeezing it gently. “After adad drank it down, he perked up and seemed less growly. We still did not understand, but it gave us something to go with. A few days later, he made an appearance to the village.”
“Oh that was a mistake.” Thorin shook his head. “I had been happy to see them, to be a part of them. But the sounds, smells, it was overwhelming. I cringed my way through it, but afterwards found the quietest spot to hide in.”
“Yeah, those first few days of being a Vampire are a bit rough.” Bilbo thought he was going to lose his mind that first couple of days. Even his softest shirt was too scratchy.
“But despite the relief of being alive, we all knew Sauron was going to come back.” Dwalin looked out towards the ruins, then back at his family. “And it was going to be bad.”
***
“I mean it, the guard I was fighting was there then not.” Kili tried to explain what happened when he swung for the guard’s neck. “Just gone.”
After they made a family appearance to the village, to show they were good. It had taken Dwalin a few hours to find his King. Thorin had been in the back of one of the storage sheds, hiding from everyone. He had simply sat with his friend, until he was ready. It was then they discovered Thorin was very acceptable to sounds and smells.
Thorin looked at his friend, gave him a small smile of thanks. Dwalin was not sure if he would get used to the stormy eyes. He stood, straightened his clothes and then walked out, head held high like the King he was. They all ended back in the throne room to discuss what happened, and what they were going to do.
“When Sauron left, only eight guards went with him. Including the bastard I slammed into the wall with my hammer.” Dwalin added to the conversation. “How he walked out, I have no idea.”
“His guards are likely the same thing Sauron is, what he made me into.” Thorin was eating the warm stew and bread that Bombur brought him. He found himself hungrier, not always for food, but eating had helped curtail the other wants. The cook had taken to giving him more food, and also informed him that if he needed the special meal just to let him know. They could not keep killing sheep, but he had no idea how else to get food. “I always had the ability to heal quickly, and take hits that most could not, but this is obviously more.”
“When you get pissed your eyes get all stormy.” Kili waved his hands towards his adad. “And growl more.”
Tauriel rolled her eyes at her husband. “Your senses have improved. I have noticed you can track us easier, know exactly where we are at. At times you are drawn to the kitchen and then there are times you are out back heaving.”
“I can hear heartbeats.” He admitted quietly. “Tell who is who, by it. Tauriel has two, one tiny one.”
Kili grinned at his wife, hand instantly on her stomach.
“I think you have been made into a Draugr.” Oin commented, he glanced at Balin. “I remember tales of the dead among the living when I was a child. It was mostly to scare us rambunctious kids into settling down. But a lot of it fits. Technically dead but walks as if alive. If I recall the stories, they were supposed to be creatures of the night, hence they only wandered during winter as it is dark most of the time.”
“I remember those tales.” Thorin frowned, setting his food on one of the tables. “They were evil.”
“You are not that.” Fili argued instantly. “So maybe the tales are not quite accurate.”
Tauriel sat next to her second father. “You would do nothing to harm us. I believe that with all my heart.”
“I get cravings. The blood helped but it is hard at times. I can track everyone in this room by heartbeat and smell.” He glanced over at Dwalin and gave him a smirk. “And my friend you need a bath.”
The tension in the room dropped, as everyone snickered.
“Your highness.” Balin patted his shoulder. “I trust you, we all do. I do not fear for anyone’s life. I do fear that the bastard will come back, and that is something we need to consider.”
Thorin nodded then stood and focused directly on his Captain of the Guard. “It is time we talk to Smaug.”
“Who is Smaug?” Fili asked, glancing over at his brother who had the same confused expression. They both looked over at Balin, who for the first time in their lives, had an equally confused expression. “Adad?”
“I will go personally.” Dwalin nodded in agreement. “You can tell the rest of the group about the deal that gave you the throne.” He bowed, grabbed his guards on the way out of the throne room.
Everyone else looked at him with anticipation.
“Smaug was supposed to kill me but instead we made a deal … “
***
“And we still have no idea why he hadn’t shown up.” Bilbo leaned into his Mate, he could feel the story was affecting him, and he made sure to send all the love and reassurance through their Bond.
They all jumped up when the ground shook. “Speaking of the bastard.”
Smaug’s head turned towards them, then leaned down to snuffle at Thorin. “I wanted to participate in the whole storytelling. I was sure you were making me into the bad guy.”
“Well you didn’t actually play the good guy.” Kili gave the dragon a pointed look. After adad had told them about the dragon, and the deal made with him, it had taken a while for him to get his head around the idea that dragons had existed, and one technically worked for them.
“Well that was rude!” Smaug shifted until he was more comfortable, resting on his front claws. “It was not a good decision. One I regret.”
Thorin’s eyebrow moved somewhere into his hairline. “That must have hurt to admit.”
“I will only say this once. I did not like being the destroyer of Erebor in that story. I do not care about Laketown or that Bard fellow. But Erebor is my home, and Thror was an evil bastard, but you had returned my scale.”
“Then why didn’t you show up?” Thorin demanded, anger slipping into his tone. It was something all these centuries he had wondered. “Why wait until the village was destroyed! I gave you my mother’s prized possession, and you betrayed us.”
Smaug’s head came down to eye level with the King. “I made a new deal. Isn’t that what you made with me? I could make another one. But it was the wrong deal.”
“Sauron came to you?” Dwalin was itching for his battle axe so he could toss it at the scaly bastard.
“A representative. He promised to leave me alone, and I wouldn’t have to protect anything.” Smaug pulled his head up, and they could hear the sigh. “Then the God of Mischief showed up.”
“Who?” Bilbo glanced at his family, only to see the same expression of confusion he was feeling.
“Loki. He had been to the village twice before, I figured you sent him.” Smaug paused, noticing they were all staring at him. “Oh you didn’t realize who they were. That makes sense now. Well he appeared in my cave.”
‘You do realize that he will betray you.’
Smaug turned towards the intruder ready to burn them to a crisp, but stopped at the powerful being that stood before him. He was lean, the black hair was pulled back into a slick tail. The outfit was a rich emerald color, and the staff he carried was powerful. The dragon could not help but stare at the shiny blue stone that vibrated with energy.
‘Sauron has no intention of letting you roam free.’ Loki moved around the cave, going through some of the piles of riches. ‘He will have his men kill you, then take all that you have.’
‘Lies.’
‘You know I speak the truth even though I prefer riddles.’ Loki paused at the crystal. ‘How did you get such a powerful crystal?’
Smaug shifted suddenly, not comfortable in the situation, yet despite being larger and stronger, knew the fight would end in his death. ‘I made a deal with Thorin, in exchange for it.’
‘Yet you do not honor that deal.’
‘I made a better one!’ He did not sound as confident nor felt it. ‘Why are you here?’
‘You know why Dragon.’ Loki focused on him. ‘The village is being attacked, my shield brother is doing what he can to save lives. You are Smaug the Magnificent, not Smaug the Betrayer.’
‘What of Sauron? If he is as bad as you say.’
‘Would you rather be fighting with a Kryptonian than someone from the realm of Mordor?’ Loki walked over to the dragon, patting his chest. ‘Choose wisely.’
They all stared at the Dragon, none of them knew what to say.
“What is a Kryptonian?”
“Isn’t Mordor a place in the book?”
“The lightning was Thor.” Thorin turned away from the dragon, moved towards the middle of the ruins. Where he had confronted Sauron and his army. “I had seen them just before we made for the tunnel.”
He had recognized the blonde from when he was a child, then king. He was on the edge of the town, wielding Mjölnir, trying to clear a path for people fleeing. He never truly accepted it was Thor, there was no way a god would come down to help, but then he was technically dead and had a dragon for a pet.
“I have to admit Dragon, your timing is likely what saved us.” Thorin turned back towards Smaug. “Why?”
“I did not like being indebted. You never asked anything of me, yet I was still tied to you. Then Sauron comes and gives me another option, it sounded good. I would not be indebted to anyone.”
“And now you are indebted to us for all eternity.” The king snorted at the irony of the situation. “I guess I should send tribute to Loki for kicking your scaly ass.”
Smaug rolled his eyes and huffed. “I took on that black demon of a dragon. It was four times bigger than me!”
Kili raised his hand. “I still want to know about Kryptonian and Mordor?”
“Irrelevant.” Smaug huffed then shuffled around. “The point was I came and saved the likes of you, and ended up stuck with you annoying humans for eternity.”
“Is this the same black dragon you went after?” Bilbo was starting to see some of the bigger picture of Smaug and Thorin’s relationship.
“We are not talking about that.” Both king and dragon stated at the same time.
“But yes.” Thorin added.
“It blocked out the sky.” Dwalin was going to make sure the lizard was going to get a speaking to with his hammer, after the journey down memory lane ended. “Thorin had called everyone to the village square. He told them about Sauron, and that he was coming to claim Erebor.”
***
“We will fight him, as we will not let some war lord take our lands!” Thorin called out to his people. “I want those who can fight to stay, the rest pack what you can carry. Evacuate to the spring valleys, the village in the Iron Hills will take you in. We have sent a messenger they will be waiting for you.”
The village erupted in controlled chaos.
Balin had worked with the Fili’s guard’s and set up patrols that would escort the woman and children from the village. The first convoy would leave at first light. No one expected the woman to fight back, wanting to stay and fight for their village.
Tauriel had given her husband a glare, while sharpening her daggers, when he requested she leave.
Dori and Ori’s stare had quieted Dwalin and Nori in seconds, both knowing better than to argue with the woman of the family.
Gloin’s wife reluctantly agreed to make sure Gimli was safe, but threatened her husband that if he did not come to her, she would kick his ass all the way to Valhalla.
All the plans had been for nought, as Sauron attacked at dusk. Sending the village into chaos. Thorin stood in the village square, Orcist in his hand. If the last thing he would do would be to kill the bastard.
But Sauron had plans, and dying at the hands of a nobody King was not part of it. He let loose his army, most of them mercenaries, some loyal to him, but most just wanted death and destruction. And just when the villagers thought they might defeat his army, he brought in Black Death.
It was death and destruction.
Thorin watched in horror as Sauron pulled Tauriel in front of them, and with an evil laugh he slammed his sword through her stomach, then tossed her to the ground. He will never forget the anguish cry from his youngest.
It was Dwalin that grabbed his arm and started to pull him back to the grand hall, to regroup. Fili pulled his brother away from the destruction, his own tears were falling down his cheeks. His second, Elor, laid dead, taking a blow that was meant for the prince.
It had taken everything of Dwalin to drag his king and princes to safety, all of them were crying out for revenge. The moment they were secured in the building, with the doors blocked, Thorin paced the room like a caged animal.
He was covered in blood, eyes were dark and stormy. The growl was feral, and the fangs were showing. Fili, with his brother, collapsed against the wall, tears streaming down their faces. Dwalin let them have their moment of grief, though no one admitted to knowing Fili’s closeness to Elor, they all knew it. He watched his father sit heavily down on one of the benches, looking lost for the first time in his life.
Dwalin pulled his dagger only to pause when Nori handed him a cup of the hard stuff. He glanced over to see Ori and Dori by the fireplace, both were sharpening weapons and prepping packs. Gloin held his son Gimli, eyes wide in shock.
While Oin was quietly treating everyone’s wounds.
“When did we lose her?”
Nori shook his head. “When that black beast arrived. The first building he took out was where they were prepping for travel. It was mostly just women and children. Gimli would not leave adad so was spared.”
Dwalin cursed and resisted hitting the wall. “This Sauron is a demon.”
“Does that make our King one?” Nori asked, watching Thorin as he continued to pace.
“You ever say those words about my King, I will gut you where you stand.” Dwalin growled low and deep. “I would not care what you mean to me.”
“I meant demon in a good way.” Nori rolled his eyes at the Captain’s antics. “I am his spy, I know more than you do. Look at him. He is in a rage, let him loose he will do damage.”
“To himself, and those boys need their adad even more so now.” Dwalin glanced over to see Kili leaning against Fili, he looked as shell shocked as Gloin.
The back door banged open, bringing in a rush of wind, the sounds of war and thunder. Everyone was up in seconds. Kili had two arrows ready to go, Fili had daggers in each hand, Dwalin had his hammer, and even Dori pulled a dagger and Ori her slingshot.
“No harm!” Bofur cried out. “Friendlies.”
“Get in here!” Thorin yelled at the small family. “Close the doors, give us news.”
Bombur and his two brothers barricaded the door, and moved into the center of the room. “Some have fled into the hills, they were chased after by those demons in the dark armour. There was an uproar at the far end of town, lightning struck and Sauron sent more men in that direction.”
“We might be the only ones left in the village, sire.” Bofur took off his hat, wringing it in his hand. “And I am not sure where to go from here.”
Thorin looked around the room, there were fourteen of them.
Fourteen.
That was left of his village, his people.
All because his grandfather made a deal with the devil, and they were paying the price. The day he does make it to Valhalla he will find Thror and rip his soul to shreds. If his amad has not already done it.
“The tunnel.” He glanced over at Dwalin. “The one Durin built.” He cursed himself for not thinking about it sooner, but they thought they had time. A mistake he will never make again.
“Is it still viable?” The guard glanced at the door calculating how long would it take for them to get there, let alone fighting their way through the horde outside.
“Yes.” Fili spoke up. He still had at least one dagger in his hand. “Kili and I would go explore it, well after we found it. Ori would tell us the stories about our ancestor Durin and we so wanted to be like him.”
“I did not mean for you to risk your lives being idiots!” Ori glared at the two boys, before throwing up her hands and muttering about morons in her family.
“It is being used as storage.” Bofur spoke up. “I have been keeping that black powder we got from the traders who had gone east. It was the safest place for it.”
Thorin nodded in understanding, then turned to his boys, giving them a small smile. “You get that from me.” Both boys snorted, and a few others chuckled. “I explored it as a kid myself, and it was well intact then, and if Bofur says it still is, then that is our way out. We can get through the mountain, and onto the south valley away from Sauron.”
“Get reinforcements?” Bofur asked.
“No.” Thorin looked upwards, letting grief wash over him, taking away the boiling anger. “Erebor is gone. I will save those of us left, I will not lose anyone else. We make for the tunnel, and find refuge somewhere.”
Fili and Kili looked as if they wanted to argue, but stepped back trying to calm their own rage.
“What of the demon outside.” Nori asked, watching the king closely.
“I will get what’s left of our people to safety.” His eyes flashed, almost matching the sound of thunder outside. “Then will hunt the bastard down. He made me into this, might as well use the ‘gift’ to do something good.”
“We will fight with you.” Fili would refuse to be left behind. “He destroyed everyone we loved, our home, family, he will pay.”
Thorin stared at his two boys, wanting nothing but to keep them safe, but knew they were too much like him to stay away from the fight. As he knew Dwalin would not be left behind, he was going to have a hard time leaving half of those left in his company behind.
“Let us focus on getting away to safety.” Thorin was not going to discuss this now, they had to survive to fight another day. “When we leave here, it will be a gauntlet. He is waiting for us, it is the only reason he has not pushed into the building.”
Thorin watched as his boys pulled swords and daggers, both wanting revenge for those they lost. Dwalin had his axe and hammer in each hand. Balin glanced over to Oin, they gave each other a nod, then stood holding their own swords. Ori and Dori swung packs onto their backs, each armed. Dori carried their father’s sword, making sure her sister stayed closer to her. Bifur nodded, showing his weapon, taking a stand by his brothers, who were armed to the teeth. He had lost his ability to speak, as a child from an illness. He understood everyone, found ways to communicate, and at the moment there was no doubt he wanted blood from their enemies.
Everyone knew not to mess with Bombur and his knives
Gloin took a deep breath and stood facing his King. “My lad will not be able to keep up.”
Thorin nodded, moved to the end of the room where he grabbed a small blanket. He stepped in front of Gloin, wrapped it around him. Dwalin, having wrapped the boys onto Thorin many times in their younger years, grabbed Gimli and got him situated on his adad’s back. Thorin finished securing the boy onto his father.
“Gimli, I need you to be a brave lad, like your adad.” The boy nodded, it was obvious he was scared but trying to be brave. “I want you to close your eyes, hold on and stay still.”
“I can do that.”
“I know you can.” Thorin ruffled his red hair that matched his father’s in so many ways. “Gloin stay in the middle of the pack, with Dori and Ori.” He held up his hand and looked at the two women. “I am sure you could take on everyone one of those mercenaries and show them how to not to mess with Erebor women, but at this moment stay with Gloin and Gimli.”
They both nodded, moving next to the father and son.
Thorin looked at the ragtag group, he felt as if something should be said but instead he put his fist to his chest and bowed his head. “It is a privilege to have you all by my side.”
“There is no other place we would rather be.” Fili answered his father with the same gesture. “Now let us get the hell out of here, and kill as many of those assholes in the process.”
As they prepared to enter the battle, Dwalin stepped close to his king and whispered quietly. “What about Smaug?”
“He is either dead or has betrayed us.” Thorin’s gaze shifted towards his guard. “He better be dead, because if he betrayed us, I will kill him along with the black creature.”
Thorin took a deep breath, glanced back to see everyone with looks of determination. “For Erebor.”
He flung open the doors, and with a yell they ran into the fight. Swords clashed, blood flowed, bones were broken, as they fought through the town. They had to ignore the bodies of those who had fallen. In some ways it spurred them on hard and faster, seeking revenge for those lost.
“Take their heads!!” Kili yelled out as he swung for one of Sauron’s black warriors. “That is how that one disappeared. It is a way to kill them!”
Thorin watched as Kili hit the mark, and the warrior disappeared, all of him nothing was left. With a yell, he threw himself into the battle, instantly noticing more of the mercenaries were disappearing. As they made their way into the middle of the town, where they had a straight shot for the storage area and the tunnel, he noticed instantly that Sauron’s men were backing off.
“On me!” He yelled making sure the small group got behind him. They would be clear for the tunnel as he faced Sauron.
“Nice try, but if you thought I was going to let any of you survive … “
The stars were suddenly blacked out. Thorin knew that sound, the snap of wings as a dragon soared towards them. He yelled for Dwalin to get everyone to the tunnel, and then faced the black death that was coming for him.
Suddenly there was a loud whistle, and the sound of a mighty crash. Thorin jumped back, just as the black dragon crashed into the ground. Over the creature’s head was Smaug, he stumbled off the downed dragon, gaze focused on Thorin.
“Where have you been?!”
“I am here as you asked.” Smaug answered, gaze shifting slightly. “What are your orders?”
Thorin stared hard at the dragon, then with a decisive nod. “Burn it to the ground! All of it.”
Smaug nodded and with a snap of his wings, he was in the air.
Sauron stared in shock as most of his mercenaries went up in flames. He looked up to see the Fire Drake take another breath, the red of the fire showing across his chest, and let loose a flame that destroyed half the village and his army.
Thorin stared at Sauron through the wall of flames, he lifted Orcist and gave a salute. Then turned and ran for the tunnels.
“After them!” He yelled, not caring he was sending the rest of his men to die. He would not be defeated by some pathetic king. Nor the dragon, who was supposed to be dead, flew across the village setting the rest of it on fire, then left devastation in his wake.
“What was that?!” Balin demanded as they entered the storage room.
“That was Smaug.” Thorin got the heavy door open and ushered everyone inside.
Bifur and Bofur went in first, checking quickly if the tunnel was safe. Bofur yelled out a confirmation, then grabbed some torches, getting them lit so they would have light. The tunnel had been dug out when Durin had first built the village, it was for the exact reason they were using it.
To evacuate the village, if ever attacked.
Bifur led the group further into the tunnels, his brother Bombur next to him. He was followed by Ori and Dori, along with their brother. Dwalin pushed the boys in along with Balin, he took a second look at his father, noticing a small grimace of pain, but at that moment they all were sporting injuries.
Oin paused at the door, then glanced at the route behind him. “I will hold them off.”
“No!” Gloin stopped and turned towards his father. “You will surely die.”
“I already am.” Oin pulled his hand away from his side, showing the blood. “Let me distract them and give you more time.”
“Adad.”
“Gloin, my boy. Your focus is on Gimli. I am an old man. I need you to live and raise him to always remember Erebor.” Oin took a step back, sword in hand facing the oncoming threat.
“Take this.” Bofur handed him a lit torch. “The black powder can distract them, it gives a good bang, might help.”
“Thank you.” Oin took the torch and focused himself for the coming fight.
“You have always been loyal.” Thorin squeezed his shoulder. “May the halls of Valhalla honor you.”
“Keep my boys safe.” Oin looked up at his King, giving him a watery smile.
Thorin nodded, and without looking back he pushed Dwalin into the tunnels, who had a strong grip on Gloin, and closed the door behind him. He leaned against it for a moment, hearing the warriors rounding the corner. With a quick prayer for Oin, he stepped away and ran down the tunnel to safety.
Oin stood next to the barrels of black powder and waited. There were at least twenty warriors, all thirsty for blood.
“Are you going to stop us old man?” One sneered, the rest laughing.
He grinned and lowered his sword. “Come on now. There is at least one citizen of Erebor that still draws breath!”
“Not for long.”
Oin laughed as he dropped the lit torch into the barrel.
The explosion collapsed the entrance to the tunnel, and the shockwave was hard enough that it knocked a few of those escaping off their feet. Even Sauron glanced back in shock seeing the dust and rubble settle in the area.
Bofur helped Ori up and gave her a grin. “Damn that powder can give a mighty wallop!”
“Go adad.” Gloin wiped the tears from his cheeks, then shifted the wrap, noticing Gimli had somehow fallen asleep in the middle of the whole situation. “So like your mother.”
They were now down to thirteen. “Oin gave us time, let us use it.”
***
“How did you knock that bastard out of the sky?” Kili asked, it had been something he wondered for years but it wasn’t that important.
“He was four times my size, but my advantage was I could get higher. So I basically flew as high as I could then dived bombed him. Got him in the shoulders, sadly it hadn’t killed him at the time.” Smaug was proud of that moment. “It hurt by the way.”
“Oh boohoo.” Thorin rolled his eyes at the dramatic dragon. “By the time we made it out of the tunnel, this one was waiting for us. Balin who didn’t even know who you were stopped me from killing him. Said I should at least speak rationally before losing a great ally.”
“He was smart.” Smaug nodded as he settled more on his front feet, letting the wings drop. “Only person who could keep Thror under control, and you it seems.”
“Don’t piss him off.” Bilbo gave Smaug a hard look. “No seriously. I am not in the mood to cook dragon for dinner.”
“Rude!”
Thorin chuckled, leaning over to give his Mate a kiss on the top of his head. “Balin was smart, and well you are lucky he was a damn good advisor all the way to the end.”
“How long was the tunnel?” Bilbo asked.
“Miles.” Thorin shook his head. “It was when I realized my sight greatly improved in the dark. I was able to lead, without a torch. It took us hours to get through it, by the time we got to the other side it was just starting to get light.”
Dwalin glanced at Thorin, then at Bilbo. “Why don’t we take a walk and show it to you, as the entrance here is no longer viable.”
Bilbo nodded, taking Thorin’s hand as he led him towards the cave area.
Thorin glanced at his kids and that included the dragon. “Do not destroy anything.”
The fact all three had the same innocent expression, gave him serious doubts of what the ruins would look like when they returned. He just sighed, and walked away dragging Bilbo behind him. Dwalin gave them all a hard look, then followed.
“So about Mordor and Kryptonian!” Kili glared up at the Dragon.
“I have no idea. He’s the god of mischief!” Smaug rolled his eyes, then moved towards one of the more open areas to settle into. “Besides I was born here, not like some of the other Dragons, so I do not know anything outside Earth.”
Fili looked at his Mate who had the same expression as he did. “Smaug the Magnificent, what do you mean by born here …”
“Is it safe to leave them alone?” Bilbo asked, finally getting his Mate to slow down.
“Not likely, but they can deal.” Thorin helped Bilbo over some of the fallen rocks and rough terrain. “So here is what was left of the front end of the tunnel.”
“Wow.” He stared at the gaping hole that went about twenty feet deep. He had never seen it before, hadn’t wandered into this area when he had visited with them. “I guess that much gun power would make a big wallop!”
“We had no idea what it was, it had been traded for a few of our swords, as Erebor was known for our quality weapons.” Thorin glanced over the hole, and down into the valley. “We’ve got a walk ahead of us.”
“Think Smaug would fly us back.”
“He would rather die.” Dwalin muttered as he stepped up to the two of them. “And so would I.”
Bilbo had to admit the walk was longer than he anticipated, but the silence was comfortable. Thorin held his hand the whole time, and for a moment it was as if they were just on a nice stroll in the countryside. Something they had done many times during their years together.
He was lost in his own thoughts when they came to a sudden stop. A quick glance around, and all he could really see was open fields and outcrops of rocks. Thorin pulled him towards the hillside, and there he could barely make out what looked to be an opening that was covered with rocks and dirt, but he really had to look for it.
“When we stepped into the open air, the first thing I saw was Smaug.” Thorin hadn’t let go of his Mate’s hand, instead pulling him away from the cave, towards the open fields. “I could have killed him instantly, but Balin stayed my hand.”
‘Sire.’ Balin laid a hand on his arm. ‘I may not know the whole story, but the creature saved us. Let him speak.’
Thorin closed his eyes and bit back the swirling anger that was coursing through his veins. ‘Dragon speak!’
Smaug sat in front of the irate king, for the first time since he’s known Thorin, the dragon was actually slightly, if only a bit, worried. ‘I came when I could. I can only give you my sworn oath that I will protect the last citizens of Erebor until their dying day.’
‘How is that any different than your previous oath!’ Thorin stepped in front of the dragon not showing any intimidation of the oversized creature.
‘I give you the oath as a Dragon. It is an old oath, one carved in the very souls of Dragons.’ He leaned down until his snout was up against Thorin’s chest, the snort of air, swept up the long locks, knocking the metal beads together. ‘Do you accept?’
Thorin stared at the Dragon, then nodded. ‘I accept.’
Smaug shifted slightly only to pause and moved back down sniffing at Thorin, only to suddenly sit back. ‘When did you become a Vampyre? You tricked me!’
‘A what?’ Dwalin stepped up to his King, weapons in hand ready to kill the creature himself if he made one wrong move.
‘One of the undead. There is a clan of them south of here.’ The dragon snuffled Thorin. ‘You should have told me before I made the oath!’
Thorin snorted, giving the dragon a vicious smirk. ‘Well now you are stuck with me for all time.’
Smaug flopped to the ground whining on how unfair it was, that he made the oath in good faith! Balin moved towards the creature and patted him on the nose. ‘You took an oath dragon you will take care of my King. Promise me that.’
The dragon shifted slightly, then nodded.
Balin gave him another pat, then sighed. ‘I can rest knowing my King is protected.’
Dwalin moved quickly to his adad, who sat heavily onto the ground. ‘Adad.’
‘It is fine.’ Balin smiled up at his boy. ‘I am old. I have raised my son, held my grandchild. Saw Erebor flourish under its rightful King. Saw the young princes become strong men and future kings.’ He leaned into Dwalin’s arms. ‘I regret seeing my village fall because of Thror’s manipulations and greed. But I now know my King will live on, as will Erebor and both will be protected for all time. I can be with your amad, and your beautiful daughter.’
Thorin closed his eyes, his own tears falling down his cheeks. Balin had always been a second father, taught him everything he needed to know on how to be a king, was there when lost Dis, loved the boys like they were his own grandchildren.
‘Adad.’ Dwalin laid his forehead to his fathers. ‘Go and be at peace, be with amad.’
Smaug looked away at such an emotional moment, not sure how to handle it. He watched as Dwalin openly mourned his father, and even the King let the tears flow. He glanced at the others in the company, Ori ran up to Dwalin and held him tight, crying with him.
‘Do you want me to leave.’
‘No Smaug.’ Thorin glanced over at him. ‘I want you to tell me about these Vampyres. Would they welcome us?’
‘Builwyf is not my friend. He actually killed my father.’ Smaug looked in a southern direction. ‘But he will take you and your company in for safety.’
Thorin stared at the dragon in shock. ‘ Builwyf? As in … ‘
‘Yes him. There is also another dragon speaker that is there, who is a Vampyre. It is a long journey, and Sauron will not wait too long before coming after us. He does not like unfinished business.’ Smaug glanced back now to see the others grieving in their own way. ‘They will be safe and you can learn more about your species.’
‘What do you know about these Vampyers?’
‘Not much.’ He shrugged slightly. ‘I do know they are fiercely loyal and not to piss them off.’
‘Sounds like adad.’ Fili stated as he stepped up to the two. ‘I do not know about everything between the two, but thank you for saving us back in the village.’
Smaug just huffed and moved away from the annoying humans.
‘We can not leave him here.’ Fili glanced over to Dwalin who was sitting next to his father, Ori curled into his side. Nori and Dori stood guard over the family. Bifu and Bofu stood nearby keeping watch on the surrounding area. Gloin was near Kili, while Bombur distracted Gimli by chasing him around the open area.
‘We can place him in the cave, bury him in stone. Maybe collapse the cave entrance so no one can get to him.’ They usually send those to Vahalla by burning on a pyre but at the moment it would bring too much attention.
Fili leaned into his adad for a moment, comforted when strong arms pulled him closer.
“He’s still buried there?” Bilbo watched as Dwalin knelt in front of the cave entrance talking softly.
“Smaug does stop by to check on things, but so far it’s been undisturbed. The area is mostly for hikers, cross country skiers, and a few daredevils when it comes to adventure. I do worry that in time he will be found.” Thorin gave his friend time with his adad.
“I wish I met him.” Bilbo had a feeling he would get along with Balin easily. The two would likely bitch about keeping Thorin and Dwalin from being hair trigger assholes.
“He would’ve liked you.” He gave him a side eye. “Mainly because you keep me in line. Plus the fact the two of you could talk history and everything else for hours.”
Bilbo grinned while taking the compliment.
Dwalin said his goodbyes and made his way back to his friends. “We should head back before it gets too dark.”
Thorin glanced around, it was starting to get cold and it would be a good walk back. “You know he will show up one day.”
“Likely just walk up and smack the both of us in the back of the head.” Dwalin snorted as they started the journey back to Erebor. “He would adopt the Hobbit.”
“Hey!” Bilbo glared at Dwalin, who just chuckled. “As I told Thorin, I wish I had met him.”
“He was a good adad.” The guard’s smile was full of good memories.
“I can tell.” Bilbo stopped and focused on his friend. “His son is a good man.”
Dwalin pulled the ‘Hobbit’ into his arms and hugged him dearly, ignoring his King’s growling. He kissed the top of his head and handed him back, laughing at Thorin thoroughly checking his Mate over, which Bilbo took with ease.
All the way back to Erebor Dwalin told stories about Balin, Thorin adding in a few of their childhood antics into the mix. By the time they returned, Smaug was gone and the boys had a warm meal and coffee ready for everyone.
***
“We’ve been talking about our trauma.” Kili spoke up after morning coffee and breakfast. “We’re just about at the tale when we met you Bilbo. I think it’s time you tell us some of your story before we raided your hobbit hole.” He paused for a moment, as the words went through his head. “That totally did not come out right.”
Fili gave up trying to hide his laughter, and ended falling back onto the sleeping bags in hysterics. Dwalin sipped his coffee, shaking his head at the youngest Durin, watching Thorin who was teetering between laughing and wanting to smack his son.
Bilbo took it with grace and dignity that none of them had.
“My life was pretty damn boring.” He poked at the fire, then fixed his own coffee. “My parents were the talk of the town. He was an upstanding citizen of the Shire, mom on the other hand was a feisty woman who had no problem telling idiots just what she thought of them. She also had no problems doing ‘mans’ work, getting her hands dirty. She practically ran her parent’s farm. When father came courting the whole village fainted. Said it would never work. They married a year later, and had me a year after that. Sadly they never had any more kids, which I discovered later was because she barely survived mine.”
“You were a spoiled kid.” Dwalin grinned over at him.
“I was and I knew it.” He laughed lost in the good memories. “I wasn’t nearly as adventures as my mother, more like dad. He taught me everything he knew about farming, and shared his ideas of how to grow food in harsher weather. We lost him during an extreme hard winter, we lost a lot that year. Mother didn’t last much longer, a few years. She waited until I was old enough to be on my own. I took over the farm, and the moment I turned down every courtship that was offered, ended up pretty isolated and snubbed by the people.”
“No Lobelia?” Fili asked with a grin.
“Oh god yes, but she was Errina and was a bitch. I turned down her father’s suggestion of courtship, she ended up married to the owner of the pub, much better match in my opinion, maybe not his. Half the reason I was shunned or spoken ill of was because of her.”
“Did we meet her?” Thorin asked not quite placing the woman.
“She was likely the woman in the pub who threw dishes at us.” Dwalin glanced at the two boys, noticing their grins. “They caught them and tossed them right back.”
“It was when you were looking for food.” Kili smiled widely remembering it was the first time he actually felt emotion outside grief and pain. He grabbed the plate out of the air, tossed it to Fili who flung it at Bombur, who then bounced it to Bifu. They were then neatly stacked on the table. Not one dish was broken. Most of the place roared out laughing giving cheers for the show. “She hated us.”
“And I missed this!” Bilbo was horrified. “That sounds like the best thing ever!”
“So you knew taking us in would cause problems.” Dwalin remembered warning him about helping, at the time Bilbo had seemed unconcerned, and likely was considering they already shunned him.
“What was the worst they were going to do, not invite me to the fall festival?” He rolled his eyes at the drama that was his life. “It was the right thing to do. It was obvious you had been through a traumatic experience, and just because those in the Shire didn’t want any ‘funny’ business, didn’t mean I would turn those who needed help away.”
“Well we were very thankful, despite you yelling at adad for being rude.” Kili grinned at Bilbo.
“How was I to know he was a giant!” Bilbo blushed slightly at the memory. “Anyways. Leaving with you was the best decision I made, to be honest I would have left with you even if Sauron and his army hadn’t shown up.”
Thorin wrapped his arm around his Mate and pulled him to his side. “The destruction Sauron caused was horrendous. We were lucky to escape that night, and get to Builwyf.”
“Even then the battle was hard won and so many lost.” Dwalin sighed, setting down his coffee. They were on this path of memories, and dealing with Balin was bad enough, he wasn’t sure how he was going to handle pulling out the memories of losing all of them. He shook his head, and focused on Bilbo, as this was his part of the story. “Why didn’t anyone in the village flee?”
Bilbo leaned into Thorin, taking the comfort he felt through their Bond. “Because they didn’t believe anything bad could happen. I talked many hours with Tolkien about this, which is why he based Hobbiton – The Shire off my village. They fully believed no evil would come their way. They were simple farmers who had an elected leader, no enemies and thought you could reason with any one.”
“I had noticed you didn’t have any warriors or defenders.” Dwalin thought it was odd, the moment he had entered the village. Most places had guards or at least those trained to fight, even if they were farmers during the day. “I swear most of them didn’t even have weapons.”
“I had my mother’s dagger, she always said it was wise to be prepared.” Bilbo chuckled slightly, it was the only weapon he had until Thorin made him Sting, which hasn’t left his side since he got it. “They also didn’t listen to anyone outside the village, hell they barely listened to anyone inside the village. It was likely the very idea that I took you guys in, and backed your warning – was enough for them to ignore the warning. I was the disturber of the peace, the odd one out, not right in the head. Tolkien may have hit a little too close to home on that part.”
“Do you ever regret meeting us?” Kili had always been curious. They had uprooted Bilbo’s life, then almost got him killed a few times. He ended up Turned and stuck with the lot of them for eternity.
“No.” Bilbo gave him a pointed look. “Never. Meeting all of you was the best thing to happen to me. I hate that we lost so many of the company. I hate that the village refused to listen to reason, and that in essence they were wiped from earth and history. I mean they live on inThe Hobbit kinda but no one knows that. They likely think The Shire was a place in England. It was such an odd name this far north.”
“I had wondered about the name, especially after living in Scotland for so long.” Dwalin was surprised by how many ‘Shire’ type villages and towns there were in Britain.
“I sometimes wonder if you were part Scot, considering how well you settled into the land.” Thorin teased his Captain. “I’ve seen your kilt, makes your legs look dainty.”
“Fuck you.” Dwalin gave him a glare which was ruined by the chuckling. “It’s a beautiful place, and to be honest at times I just couldn’t be in Norway. You travelled all the way to Egypt and even further, to find a destiny. Mine was just closer to home.”
Thorin nodded in understanding. “Considering how Vikings raided Scotland, brought back wives, and then the Scots would take revenge, claim back wives. It’s not shocking that the two cultures mixed and mingled, but there are times I wish they would realize that we are not Celts.”
“Considering we discovered amad’s family line came from way south, it’s not shocking that everything is connected.” Fili spoke up. He had been enjoying the conversation, just being with family. “I’m blonde and work in Oslo, when not dealing with past traumas, and every tourist thinks I come from a strong line of Vikings. Technically I do, but they see Kili who comes to visit and ask where he’s from, despite him speaking Norwegian to them. It’s like people get this idea of what a Viking looks like, what a Celt looks like, and then think all of us were barbarians or pillaging assholes.”
Dwalin snorted. “We can talk for hours about perspective. The comments the British made about me for being Scottish, then the ones from my fellow Scots to find out I’m actually Norwegian. I do not know how popular this new book will be, but our names are going to get people talking.”
“I’m going to judge people by how fast they look at my feet!” Bilbo grumbled, arms crossed in a slight huff.
“I’m just going to watch as they try to figure out why I’m pushing 7ft instead of barely 4ft.” Thorin smirked wickedly, as the boys laughed, totally imagining the moment in their heads. “We’ll be leaving tomorrow, so take the day. I don’t think we’ll be back for a while.”
A few hours later Thorin found Bilbo on the outskirts of the village. It had always been one of his favorite spots that overlooked the village. Many times he had just sat and watched everyone, reminding himself that he was there for them.
“Should a Hobbit be out here by himself?”
“I’m fine, I have a strong Dwarf protecting me.” Bilbo smiled at his Mate as he sat down next to him. “I was just lost in memories.”
“Which ones?”
“I loved you the moment I saw you. I was an idiot in love. Okay, likely it was lust first, since my first view was your well sculpted ass.” Bilbo gave his Mate a filthy smile and wink, making Thorin chuckle. “The few days the company stayed with me, I was trying to figure out how to invite myself along. There was nothing I could contribute, I was tempted just to point out that I would be number fourteen, which meant there was no longer an unlucky number, but figured that was stupid.”
“You could’ve been our burglar. As you did steal my heart.”
“Corney!” Bilbo fell to the ground laughing, then with the agility he learned over the years ended up in Thorin’s lap. “But perfect.” He went up on his knees and kissed him with all of his love. “I will never regret finding you, then to have you as my Mate. I love you.”
Thorin pulled him closer, kissing him deeply relishing in the feel of his Mate in his arms. “I wanted to steal you, spent hours trying to figure out how to bring you along. I was trying too hard not to let the positiveness I was feeling towards you, not to come out. Dwalin at one point pulled me aside and told me flat out I couldn’t kidnap you”
Bilbo would’ve been fine with the kidnapping. He curled into his Mate’s arms, laid his head on the strong shoulders. “In the end we needed no excuse, we just had to flee.”
***
“Sire!” Bifur ran up to the group, gesturing towards the hills behind him. “There is a horde heading this way. I could not see how many men, but all wearing black and being led by Sauron!”
“Get everyone together!” Thorin called out to Fili, who ran to do his bidding. “Pack what we can, be ready to leave in an hour.”
“What are you doing?” Dwalin caught up with his King as he headed towards the approaching army.
“We have to warn the people. They may not have treated us with kindness, but no one deserves to be at the mercy of that demon. The only reason Sauron is on their doorstep is because of us, we have to do the right thing.” Thorin stalked into the town with Dwalin, by his side. They quickly came across Bilbo who was bargaining for more food with one of the local butchers. “Bilbo, I need you to go back to your home and pack.”
Bilbo glanced up at the king with a confused expression. He wanted to go with them, so hearing the order was what he wanted, but it had seemed out of place. “Why? Not that I mind going with you, but what is the urgency?”
“I know the boys told you about Sauron, it has not been something I wanted to talk about, but now he is on his way. He will not stop to negotiate, this village is in danger.” Thorin pulled him off to the side so as not to scare any of the villagers. “We are on the way to your Mayor to talk to him.”
“It will be pointless but I will go with you.” Bilbo refused to be sent home. This was his village and he will argue and yell at the stubborn creatures.
An hour later he could not believe that these people would rather die than admit that a stranger was right or believe that something bad would happen. With tears in his eyes he flung up his hands and told them to die for all he cared, then stormed out of the great hall and headed for home. He was thankful Thorin and Dwalin did not say anything on the way back, he needed the moment to come to terms with the whole situation.
He had wanted to leave with Thorin, but not like this.
Bilbo knew that if what Fili had told him about Sauron was even remotely true, his village and the people he had known since birth were going to die, because of their own stupidity. Bilbo stormed into his house, and towards his room. He pulled out a bag and stared at his cozy home. He was going to leave it behind to follow a dethroned king, because of a madman. He sat on the bed and let the tears come, he was terrified and excited. He was angry at Thorin for bringing destruction to his village, yet thankful to have met him.
“I know what it is like.”
He wiped the tears and gave Ori a watery smile.
“To flee your home.” She sat next to him on the bed. “Dwalin and Nori wanted to send us away, but we refused as Erebor was our home. I was not going to leave my husband and brother behind. But I also packed a bag, knowing if worse came to worse I would have some of my home with me.”
“Why did this Sauron attack you?” Fili never quite answered the question, though he had a feeling the boy was traumatized by something he was not talking about.
“It was because of Thorin’s grandfather, Thror. He was not a good man. I was young when Thorin defeated him to claim the throne, but Dori would be the one to tell you how life improved with Thorin.” She assured him, patting him on the knee. “Thror promised things he never intended to fulfill, and Sauron was one of those he promised things to.”
“I know everyone is hiding something about Thorin.”
She gave him a smile, kissed him on the cheek. “Pack layers, warm socks, and do not forget a hankie! Plus a rolled up blanket, at least one personal thing, and a good cloak.”
He took her advice and packed exactly what she suggested. He had his mother’s dagger, knowing it would be practical and for once he would need it. The last thing he packed was a set of his father’s tools. Little did he know how much those would come in handy down the road.
An hour later they were on the road. He was fit, always chasing after his sheep, but the pace Thorin had set was brutal, but understandable. The further they got away from the village, the safer they were. It was when they had hit a few miles out, when he realized they were down three people. “Thorin, where are the brothers? Bifur, Bofur and Bombur?”
Thorin paused much to Bilbo’s delight, as keeping up with him was hard, the man’s long legs at a walk was a small jog for Bilbo! The king closed his eyes for a moment as if trying to control his emotions, then continued to walk. “They decided to stay and help as many of your stubborn villagers as they could.”
Bilbo stood in the middle of the road, mouth agape as he stared at the king. “That is a death sentence.”
Thorin nodded, turned and grabbed Bilbo’s arm and pulled him down the road. “Their sacrifice will be favored in Valhalla, let us not waste it. I know you are not used to this pace, but you need to keep up Master Baggins.”
“What about young Gimli?” He asked with concern, having not seen him on the road, suddenly worried for the small boy. Only to realize the pack Thorin was carrying was not food or clothes, but instead a five year old napping boy. “Oh.”
“I carried the boys similarly when they were young, one on each side.” The smile showed the love he felt for his boys. “I have the stamina to carry the extra weight. I know it will be rough, but you have strength in you that has not been discovered.”
They did not stop until way past nightfall. At one point Bilbo paused on a hilltop and looked back towards his village, and only saw a red hue. He swallowed back the tears and followed Thorin into a new life.
***
“I wonder sometimes if they do an archeological dig on the site of where the Shire was located if they would find anything, but then at the same time I do not want to know.” Bilbo leaned against Thorin, resting comfortably. “Why did they stay behind?”
“They couldn’t see more innocent lives lost and had to try and help.” Thorin had argued with them, but they were stubborn to a fault. “One day when I see those three, I’m smacking all of them.”
Bilbo chuckled. “I’m sure Bombur will come back one day as some famous chef. Bifur and Bofur will just be quietly working away, not caring about politics or the world around them.”
“You at least you didn’t scream when Smaug showed up.”
“Internally I screamed like a five year old girl.” Bilbo had practically dived behind Thorin when the dragon landed in front of them. The whole time the company had stayed with them, and during their flight from the Shire, NO one had mentioned a Dragon!
‘I have been able to stop Sauron for a while. Burned a section of his army.’ Smaug announced as he landed in front of the group. ‘He has destroyed at least three villages, I was able to divert his attention away from one other.’
‘Is my village completely destroyed?’ Bilbo stepped from behind Thorin eyes wide as he stared at the Dragon, not quite sure how to handle talking to one
‘You picked up a stray?’ He leaned down and snuffled at the newcomer.
‘This is Master Bilbo Baggins of the Shire. He took us in, letting us rest. Sauron repaid that kindness by destroying his village.’ Thorin gave Smaug a hard look, growling slightly not liking the Dragon getting too close to Bilbo. He had been having a hard time not growling at others who got to close, not sure where the possessiveness was coming from.
‘If it was the village in the hills then it was destroyed.’
He glanced at Thorin. ‘What is your name as you have been very rude not to introduce yourself.’
Smaug sat back irritated, but then leaned forward. ‘I am Smaug the Magnificent. Master Bilbo Baggins.’
‘Nice to meet you.’ He gave him a small nod, but stayed next to Thorin.
He sat back up then focused on Thorin. ‘You are a few days out. I told Builwyf that you were coming, and he has sent out a Hunter to help bring you to safety. He seemed distracted, especially by the new guy they brought from the desert.’
Fili stepped next to his father, giving the dragon a flat stare. ‘Is there any threat between here and safety?’
‘No.’ Smaug shrugged then fidgeted before stepping back and lifting himself off the ground. ‘I will be around.’
‘Was that an actual dragon?’
‘Yes, he is dad’s pet.’ Kili answered, giving their dad a side eye. ‘Long story, but he kinda made an oath to dad and now they are stuck with each other.’
‘Let’s keep moving!’ Thorin yelled out, hand gesturing down the path. As everyone trudged by him, most of them were quiet solely focused on getting to the next stop. Thorin held out his hand. ‘This way Bilbo.’
Bilbo gave him a smile, shyly took the hand and let Thorin help him down the path.
Fili gave a look to his brother, who stared back in shock. ‘What the hell was that!?’
‘Leave them alone!’ Ori gave both boys a hard glare. ‘I have not seen that smile on your adad in years.’
‘What does that mean!?’ Kili demanded glancing between her and Dwalin, who rolled his eyes and sighed.
‘It means your adad is smitten.’ He gave them both a hard look. ‘Last time I saw him with that smile was with your amad. You will not make a fuss, nor torment him. If I find out you or anyone in this ragtag group of refugees makes Thorin uncomfortable about Master Baggins. I will just kill you and be done with it.’
‘I believe him.’ Kili’s eyes widened as he glanced at his brother, who nodded in agreement.
Gloin chuckled slightly, both boys jumped not realizing he was behind them. ‘He is not the only one smitten. Master Baggins has been giving our poor king flowers, little I learned while we were in his village, flowers have meanings. Sadly, Thorin has no idea what they mean, and my Gimli keeps eating them.’
Dori snorted.
Nori rolled his eyes, but also chuckled.
‘Are we okay with this?’ Kili asked not quite sure how to take the sudden courtship happening.
‘Yes.’ Ori answered, making sure everyone knew not to argue with her. ‘If they can find a moment of happiness in this hell we are living, then let them be.’
Fili grabbed his brother’s arm and pulled him away from the group. He understood his brother’s emotions, they both lost someone they care for, and cannot even contemplate someone else in their lives. Adad had been without amad for over twenty-two years, never taking another wife and as far as they knew did not have lovers.
‘I get it Kili.’
‘Good cause I do not.’
‘They are right, he is a lot less tense with Master Baggins around. We do not know what will happen when we reach this clan, but if adad is happy or finds happiness, what can we do but support him.’ Fili pulled his brother into his arms and held him for a few moments, the tears flowing for both of them.
Kili patted him on the shoulder then stepped back. ‘You are right. Master Boggins is a good man.’
‘Baggins. Get it right or adad may hit you.’
‘If he does not, Ori will.’
The two laughed lightly, when they turned to head back to the group, they noticed instantly that Thorin was watching them intently, but just nodded and made his way to Bilbo’s side.
***
They hiked out from Erebor to the truck, which only took a few hours. “Why is it always faster on the way back?” Bilbo tossed his bag into the back of the truck. “I swore it took half the day on the way in.”
Thorin snorted as he packed the truck. “Most of the walk is down hill, and we weren’t nearly wrapped in our heads with old memories.”
“Speak for yourself!” Bilbo muttered as he got into the truck sulking slightly.
“Grumpy Hobbit.” Dwalin gave his king a pointed look.
“He didn’t sleep well, and woke up with nightmares. If we follow this memory path, we’re at some of his worst moments. I know he has no regrets following us, but his village was destroyed because Sauron was an asshole who still hates the fact we’re still alive.” Thorin leaned against the truck for a few moments, taking a deep breath. “The worst part of this journey is coming up.”
“But also the best.” Dwalin had to learn over the centuries to see the good and bad of the last fight. Mourn those they lost, while celebrating the fact a few of them survived. “Fili asked if we could drop them off in Oslo, figuring it was not a bad idea. We can stop at his bar, and toast the company.”
“Sounds good.” Thorin patted his best friend on the shoulder, gave him a smile then headed for the driver’s side of the vehicle. As he got behind the wheel, he reached over and squeezed Bilbo’s leg. “You good?”
“I will be.” He shuffled over and cuddled against his Mate. “Can we go home after this, just the two of us?”
“We’re dropping Fili and Kili in Oslo, we’ll dump Dwalin somewhere, and head home.” He winked over at his captain as he got into the vehicle. Bilbo sighed happily and was asleep before they got halfway down the road.
***
It was getting harder to find parking, especially in the inner city, but Thorin finally found an open spot in the alleyway behind the building where Fili’s bar was located along with the boy’s apartment. They were the first out, grabbing their bags as they unlocked the back door and entered the building.
They ran up the backstairs to their apartment, unloading their gear. It was a good size apartment. Had two bedrooms, and a den/office. The kitchen was a bit small, according to Bilbo at least, but the living and dining area was great for entertaining. It showed the unique personalities of the Mates. Fili’s collection of daggers was scattered around the rooms, as were different types of bow and arrows. Kili’s sniper rifle he used during the war was tucked away in a safe in the closet, along with other weapons.
Kili headed down the hallway stripping out of his clothes aiming for a shower. Fili contemplated for a moment to head downstairs to make sure the bar was good, but seeing his Mate’s naked ass go down the hallway was enough for him to decide to join Kili in the shower.
Dwalin grabbed his own gear, and set it in behind the bar, he would crash in one of the backrooms, before taking some time for himself, and then see about heading back to London. As much as this time had meant to him, he needed some space to get everything back into their perspective boxes.
Thorin got the lights on, checked the back bar for inventory. It was a Monday, which meant the bar would be closed, so they wouldn’t be expecting staff or patrons. It was a nice looking bar, even if it was a bit small. Only had seating for about forty, and then another ten at the bar. He knew Fili wanted to expand, but was waiting for the space next door to come available.
The bar was dark mahogany, and it had a cave-like feel to the place. When the fire was going, and the place was filled, it felt homey. Fili’s manager was excellent, and their cook was an upcoming chef with some fun ideas. So far it has been profitable for him.
It didn’t take long for Bilbo to get the kitchen up and running to make a warm meal. When he heard the back door open and close, he realized his Mate went to the nearest store for supplies.
He grabbed the top shelf whisky and settled a glass in front of Dwalin and poured them two fingers each. They lifted their glasses, clinked them together and downed the liquid. Thorin poured another two fingers, then settled against the bar.
“How are you doing?”
“Ready to put this behind me. It was good to reconnect, but at times it is hard not having Nori.” Dwalin downed the second drink. “The bastard is taking a while to find his way home.”
“Likely exploring the world trying to get all the information before making a reappearance.” Thorin poured another two fingers, then set the bottle on the bar. “I think some time away from Mod might be good for everyone. It’s home but at the same time, the last of our company was lost on those grounds.”
“Notice that after all these centuries Sauron has never attacked the Clan.”
“If Builwyf was more focused on the situation, not concerned about Ahmad, which is totally understandable, Sauron would have not survived that outcome. It was bad enough he lost his whole army, all nine of his guards, and even black death had ran off. He isn’t going to make that mistake again, especially with the added Hunters Builwyf now has.”
“You mean us.”
Thorin’s grin was positively wicked.
***
The weary travellers were greeted by a young man, who landed in front of them on a black dragon. One much smaller than they had dealt with before. Thorin stepped in front of his company, hand on his sword but watched intently.
“Hi!”
Bilbo looked past Thorin, and gave the man a smile. “Hello. We are looking for Mod Clan?”
“Yes. Smaug mentioned you were coming. I have to admit Builwyf was not happy with his presence, but accepted the news he gave. I am Hiccup, this is Toothless.” The black dragon pranced around. “Unlike Smaug, he does not speak.”
Bilbo waved to the dragon who moved away from Hiccup, to explore the rest of the group. Bilbo smiled as Ori held out her hand, and the dragon put his snout into it expecting scritches. “Well he seems nice.”
Thorin watched in amazement as the dragon romped around the company. He seemed especially interested in Gimli, who decided the dragon was his toy to play with. “Thank you for coming out to meet us. We are hungry and tired, how much further do we need to go?”
“Not far, another five miles.” Hiccup kept an eye on Toothless, but focused on Thorin. “Smaug stated that you had been Turned, hence he sent you to us.”
“Turned?” Bilbo glanced over to Thorin then back to Hiccup. “What does that mean?”
Thorin tensed up, he had not explained his nature to Bilbo, not sure how he would take it. He enjoyed the man’s presence and did not want to lose it. “When Sauron arrived in Erebor, he did something to me. I died but came back. I am not sure what it is to be honest.” He focused on Bilbo, trying to convey that they had not kept it from out of spite. “I am sorry we had not told you, we are not even sure how to describe it.”
Bilbo reached out and took Thorin’s hand, then patted him on the chest. “But you seem alive. I mean you are here.”
“We are called Vampires.” Hiccup stepped closer to the two, wondering if they were Mates or possible future Mates. “Basically it is exactly as Thorin described. We are dead but not. Some are given a choice to be Turned, others not. Thorin it would see you were Turned without a choice. Normally those Turned without a choice would be given an opportunity to be set free, but I doubt you will do that.”
“No.” Was the simple answer.
“Have you been feeding?” He asked, wanting to know if they needed to find Chosen Ones.
He looked at him slightly confused but then nodded. “I have found wild game, drained it, gave the meat for the others to eat, what’s left went to the dragon.”
“Not on a person?”
“I would not harm my people.” Thorin bit back the growl, remembering all of Balin’s teachings. They had no idea about what being a Vampire meant, so he would not pass judgment until they got more information.
“Can he?” Dwalin asked, stepping closer to Thorin.
“You can take a bit from different people enough to feel fed. Human blood is more fulfilling. It is odd I will give you that! But over time if you keep a healthy feeding schedule you will not feel the hunger that can lead to attacking or hurting someone. If you have fed from animals this whole time, your control is exceptional. Do not worry you do not have to feed off strangers, but we have Chosen Ones that volunteer, they are part of the clan and help us as we protect them.” Hiccup gave a quick history lesson about Vampires, he could see the group becoming more at ease. “Builwyf can tell you much more once we are secure in the clan home.”
A few hours later they entered through the gates. Thorin was impressed by the fortifications, and wondered if Builwyf knew Sauron was coming. He was escorted to see the Clan Leader, with Dwalin by his side, along with Bilbo who refused to leave. The rest were taken to one of the smaller buildings, where they could get food and looked over by one of their healers.
Hiccup explained that the Clan was made up of Vampires and humans, both living together. There were not many Vampires at the moment, as a matter of fact Thorin was the first they had seen in decades. Builwyf came down from his throne the moment they entered the Great Hall. He chuckled lightly at having to look up at Thorin, but gave him a slight bow.
“Welcome to Mod. I am sorry for your loss. The dragon explained some of the situation, and despite the annoying creature that he is, I am glad he has brought you here to us.” He gestured towards a few people around him. “This is Gran she keeps me on my toes, making sure I stay humble. You met Hiccup, he is a Dragon Speaker and my main Hunter, we are a very small Clan. We all do what needs to be done for the safety and well being of everyone.” He waved towards a man, who did not fit with the rest of the group. He was smaller than Builwyf though it was likely before Thorin, everyone was smaller than Builwyf. He was dark haired, with sharp eyes. His skin was darker, and his clothing was not from the area. “This is Ahmad. He comes from Egypt, and as a dare he ventured his way North with us.”
Ahmad bowed, his focus though was on Thorin sword. “You carry a beautifully crafted weapon. If you do not mind, where did you get it?”
“My amad … mother. It was her father’s, father’s, and so forth. She told me her family was from the south, the desert lands.” Thorin gripped the sword but did not pull it.
“One day you should travel to your mother’s land, I am sure you will find a strong connection to it.” Ahmad gave him a bright smile. “It is obvious you are tired from your flight to safety. Builwyf I think it would be good to let them rest.”
“Yes.” He nodded then glanced at Gran, who dramatically sighed then took Bilbo’s arm.
“Come with me, my boy.” She patted him on the hand, and led them out of the room. Noticing instantly that Thorin was watching her intently. “Ah I think we will have many talks about Vampires, but Mates should be the first one.”
Bilbo stopped and looked at her with a curious expression. “Mates?”
“Lucky for you!” Dwalin teased Thorin, who just grinned.
“I lost it when Bilbo disappeared. It was Ahmed who pulled me aside to explain the situation. It was then I realized that Builwyf was his, and both men were having a hard time adjusting to the idea. They came from two different worlds.”
‘It is okay.’ Ahmad caught up to the raging king. ‘Bilbo is safe with Gran. Has no one mentioned Mates to you?’
‘Mates?’ He stopped in his tracks, and focused on the other Vampire. ‘I am barely understanding what it is to be a Vampire.’
‘The one gift given to us Vampires is that soul we are meant to be with for eternity. Our Mate. Once Bonded together, Mates cannot even be separated in death. One dies the other will follow.’ Ahmed glanced across the open area to see Builwyf talking with a few of his men. They were not Vampires but damn good warriors, who knew how to fight all enemies including Vampires.
‘He is yours.’ Thorin watched at Builwyf turned to look in their direction, his focus on Ahmed.
‘He is. We both know, just trying to figure it out. My home is in the desert, this land is very new.’ He grinned at Thorin, laughing lightly. ‘He runs this Clan. I could not ask him to leave his people. So I am learning to adjust to the wetness.’
Thorin chuckled slightly. ‘You speak the language well.’
‘The assholes refused to speak to me, despite knowing my language on the trip here. So I learned, shocked the hell out of them when I yelled back.’
He openly laughed, then paused as he realized that was the first time since Sauron showed up in his throne room that he truly laughed. ‘What happens to a Vampire if they lose their Mate.’
‘If they are not Bonded or one is still human. It is not good. Most Vampires can do damage if their Mate is taken from them. I am sure you could do more.’ Ahmed gestured towards the Great Hall. ‘Which is why Gran has spirited Bilbo off to explain all this to him. It is obvious to all of us, he is your Mate.’
‘And now what?’
‘I am sure he is being Turned and will be happy to spend eternity with you.’ Ahmad gave him a smile, then glanced back at Builwyf who nodded, then moved away with his warriors, though he noticed Dwalin was with them likely giving as much information as he had about the approaching horde.
‘I need to find Bilbo.’ Thorin thanked him then headed for the Great Hall, he had a Mate to claim as his own.
“They are doing well now. Actually an inspiration on how to navigate such different cultures.” Dwalin always smiled watching their Clan Leaders. Ahmed was calm for Builwyf, but when he went off no one knew what to do. Builwyf would just smile and let his Mate rip something to shreds. It was a lot like Thorin and Bilbo, though Bilbo was a lot more possessive than he likes to admit. He remembers the times women and men would check Thorin out, Bilbo would plot their demise in the corner, not always quietly. “It was smart of Gran to talk to Bilbo first, let alone Turn him. You were not ready to Turn anyone at that moment.”
“Not until I had to.” Thorin looked up to see Fili and Kili come into the bar both showered and dressed more casually. Fili set down a black cat on the floor, who ran directly to Dwalin and climbed until he was on the bar demanding pets. “Good to be home?”
“Yes!” Kili grabbed two glasses and snagged the whisky bottle. “Just happy to be clean. How did we go weeks without a bath!”
“You always did enjoy bath time.” Fili shooed the cat over and settled into a seat.
“You enjoy it more now.” Kili gave him a saucy grin.
Thorin groaned, giving his boys a glare as they laughed. “Is this the new demon you picked up?” He scratched its head, and there was instant purring.
“His name is Bean.” Kili slid a glass to his Mate. “Cause it was the size of one when we found it. Nursed it from kittenhood.”
“My manager has been watching him, while we were away.” Fili downed the drink, laughing when the cat flopped down on the bar and stayed there. “The bar is Cat’s Cradle – it always needs a cat.”
Thorin was proud of his boys, always had been. But even more so watching over the centuries as they build lives for themselves, learning new things. This was the third bar/pub Fili had owned over the centuries, the last one was burned down by Nazi’s. When he built the newest one, they had found a mother cat with kittens on the property, hence the name.
Kili took to teaching which had shocked all of them. He was an olympic archer and cross skier, or would be if he actually entered the games. But his reputation and talent has brought many to his doorstep. So he teaches archery to all ages, and helps train those looking to become professionals.
Thorin has been happy over the years sticking to his main trade, blacksmithing. His skills have always kept him busy, but he knew in time he was going to have to adjust as modern advancements kept improving which meant less people would need a blacksmith. Bilbo was trying to get him to try sculpting but he wasn’t sure if he had the talent.
Bilbo on the other hand, the moment pen and paper became more readily available was writing. When the Guttenburg press was developed, books became a most have.
Dwalin spent many centuries in Scotland as a warrior and farmer. After a few conversations it is likely he’ll be leaving Scotland for a while and heading into London to do what he does best – protect people.
The banging of doors then pots and pans indicated Bilbo was back from the store and now cooking up something for his family.
“Oh I hope there’s mushrooms.” Kili glanced at the kitchen doorway.
“YES Kili! I have mushrooms!” Bilbo yelled from the other room, making them all snicker.
“So the alcohol is for?” Fili asked as he poured another glass.
“Too many memories and a tribute to the Company.” Thorin held up his own glass as they both swallowed the liquid in one go.
“Amen.” Kili held up his glass to Dwalin who grabbed the bottle to pour his third drink. The two saluted and drank down their own.
“It’s been a weird trip.” Fili reached over to pet Bean. “Good but weird. I’m hoping this new book doesn’t have any more of our story in it.”
“Well we’re dead so we should be fine.” Kili pointed out sarcastically.
“God help Tolkien if he marries Bilbo off.” Dwalin side eyed his king, who growled. “Fiction. It’s fiction.”
Thorin shrugged. “The Hobbit should still be mourning me.”
“Weirdest conversation ever.” Kili laughed but was enjoying himself. “Though since most of the Company lived in the book, I wonder what will happen to them if anything?”
“I’m more interested to see who else pops up, if anyone. I mean he travelled around, and met some interesting people.” Fili was distracted when the kitchen door opened and Bilbo brought out trays of meats and cheeses. “Food!”
“Well I figured we were going to be finishing up memory lane, and food is always a good thing.” He set the plates down, then went back into the kitchen to grab bowls that had bread. “I stopped by the bakery as I did not have the mindset to bake anything. Do not worry stuffed mushrooms are in the oven. I can make those in my sleep!”
Thorin swears he has but never complained about it.
“I actually don’t remember much of the battle.” Kili admitted his tone was softer, quieter. “I know we prepped for days, and then just waited.”
“The biggest shock, yet not, was finding out Bilbo had been Turned and learning about Mates and that you were now Mates.” Fili glanced at his adad and Bilbo. “It was odd, but I had never seen dad so content.”
“Dwalin teased him for at least a day.” Kili laughed at Dwalin’s eye roll. “I was just terrified that you had found happiness only to have Sauron rip it away.”
“Our first argument was over Bilbo staying in the Great Hall.”
Bilbo humphed as he ate his sandwich. “You were an ass.”
“You were unreasonable. Even now you have to admit that you were not remotely trained to handle the battle.” Thorin gave him a look, one indicating he wasn’t taking his Mate’s bullshit.
He grumbled but nodded. “You were still an ass, but right. It was best for me to be in the Great Hall. I was able to watch Gimli and the other children. Did learn never to mess with Gran.”
“No one messes with Gran.” Dwalin learned that lesson the day after they arrived, and she reminds him of it all the damn time. “I have been in many battles since then, and am still amazed at how fast they disintegrate into chaos. I remember standing on one of the embankments, watching his army approach. It was twice as many that had attacked Erebor.”
“I was surprised he didn’t bring in the dragon.” Bilbo had always wondered about that.
“Smaug did more damage than Sauron wanted to admit.” Thorin stated chuckling. “So he was out of commission for the battle.”
“Thank the gods.” Kili shook his head not wanting to contemplate what that battle would’ve been like with the dragon. “I know Smaug and Toothless did damage, but if that beast had arrived it would’ve been bad.”
“It was odd hearing it from the Great Hall.” Bilbo set the bread he was fiddling with down onto his plate. “I could hear the roar of the battle, but did not know what was going on. We had the kids close to a back exit that led to a tunnel. Gran had instructions to flee south, she had options to get to Marek or all the way to Remus.”
“I was in the battle and had no idea what was going on.” Fili fixed himself a small sandwich. “The moment the horde hit the first blockade it descended into chaos.”
“I was so focused on the kids, especially Gimli that I didn’t even notice when Ori and Dori went missing.” He regretted that even now, wondering if he had, would he have been able to have kept them from the battle.
“Those two were stubborn.” Dwalin had been pissed when he saw them on the battlefield. “They were fighting for those they lost and for the home they had just found.”
***
The battle descended into chaos, which was not surprising. Dwalin, slashed his way through the group of mercenaries, not caring how much blood was being shed. Between his axe and hammer, he was getting a collection of bodies, as far as he was concerned each one was for a lost citizen of Erebor.
“Forty!”
Dwalin snorted as he turned to see Gloin with his double edge axe, looking down right gleeful and viscous. “You are catching up.”
Gloin growled then launched himself back into the battle.
Dwalin was sure that between Thorin and Builwyf the body count was in the hundreds.
It was the scream over the roar of the battle that caught his attention. He knew that voice, it was Ori. With a surge of anger he rushed into the battle, heading straight towards the yells. The women were supposed to be in the Great Hall! She had argued with him, not as bad as Thorin and Bilbo’s argument, but enough. It was Nori’s plea to stay behind that got both women to finally agree.
Obviously it had not stuck.
He took the head off one mercenary, noticing quickly it was not a Vampire. Then slammed his hammer into the back of another, ignoring the crunch of metal and bones. He stepped into the center of the fight, instantly taking Nori’s back as they fought off the never ending assailants. Dwalin was starting to feel the cuts, broken ribs, and damage he was taking. But he would continue to stand, to protect his family.
He twisted when he heard Ori call out. It was the wrong move as the sword was coming for his head, and he could not get out of the way. Next minute he was in the mud, and Nori laid dead next to him. “You bastard!” With a surge of anger, he was up and back into the fight. By the time he was done, there were no enemies around him, but he knew he was done.
Exhaustion and blood loss had him dropping to his knees. He felt strong arms grab and steady him, for a moment he thought it was Thorin, but instead it was Builwyf. “You have fought hard my friend, I can save you.”
“My family?” He did not need an answer, the Clan Leader’s expression was enough.
“What about your King?”
Dwalin laughed but accepted the gift being given to him. Later he would discover that Dori had gone down first, always protecting her sister. Ori and Nori fought like hell avenging her. He knew Nori fell saving him, and Ori in her distraught thinking she lost her husband and brother, threw herself at the enemy, taking two down with her.
Builwyf got him into a sheltered area, letting a few of the healers know he had been Turned, then ventured back out into the battle. He searched the battle field for Ahmed, seeing him slicing through the enemy with ease, the man was a warrior under those diplomatic robes. He heard the roar of the dragon soaring over, taking out sections of the enemy. Hiccup and Toothless were close by using their advantage of the air, to distract the warriors, and divert their men to safety.
Thorin was in the thick of it all, and looked like a man possessed. Builwyf was starting to see the King.
The coward would not face him. Sauron had stayed away from Thorin but kept sending his best warriors to kill him, all failed. Thorin left the bodies behind him, Orcist dripping with blood yet never dulling in the fight.
The warlord knew the battle was lost. He could not understand how thirteen pathetic people could escape his clutches and essentially be his downfall. He would destroy the pathetic King before he left the battlefield. It was not hard to find the princes, as they fought next to each other. Much like their father with the body count around them, there was no doubt they were Durins.
Oh he had known the original Durin, who had also told him to leave his village. At the time Sauron was still building his power and influence on this pathetic world, and let the man be. Thror, he had seen an easy target, teased the man with immortality and then took everything he had, what he had not expected was the annoying grandson to take him out first.
Nor did he expect the town to love him, to the point no one would speak ill of him. Well there was that crazy woman, but she had useless information. Who cared that the queen died in birth, woman died all the time.
Sauron startled when an arrow slammed into his shoulder. He looked over to see Kili glaring at him, as he notched a second. He easily caught it and tossed it to the ground, and snapped the other dropping next to its counterpart.
He stalked towards the princes, both positioning for a fight. This was going to be a pleasure. They fought well, a strength behind them that was not normal for a standard human, but it was obvious their father was not entirely human, no man should have survived the battle with Sauron, but he had and fought back.
The youngest scream as he gutted the oldest was pleasure to his ears, followed quickly by the sound of the youngest bones breaking. In his delight he had not seen Thorin, until he slammed into him, like a boulder in an avalanche, knocking him into the ground.
Sauron stood and glared at the King. “I gave you eternal life.”
“You destroyed my people.” Thorin snarled at him. “I will see you pay.”
“Interesting choice you have.” Sauron glanced at the two boys who lay dying. “Save them or kill me.”
He laughed as he walked away from the battle, of course the pathetic man would choose to save his children, they always do. Sauron did not walk away unscathed, he would need to feed and rebuild an army, but he would be back.
Thorin knelt next to his boys, tears streaming down his cheeks. “I will not lose you like I did your amad. Please let me save you.”
There was no doubt in any of the boys minds, they would not leave their adad. It was Ahmed that found the three not soon after, he took in the scene and ordered all of them to the healers. He made sure there would be Chosen Ones, along with animals for them to feed. He stayed by Thorin’s side, making sure he was calm, and had also fed. He had a few injuries and was surprised the king had not felt them, but he had known of warriors who collapsed at the end of battle never realizing they were wounded.
“It was bitter sweet to learn that you boys survived only by being Turned.” Dwalin pulled them out of their memories. “It meant that you were killed but still with us.”
“Same.” Kili smiled at Dwalin.
“I had never been so scared when Gran told me they brought you three in to recover.” Bilbo had been terrified and ran to the healers.
He slid into the room, staring at the too still bodies on the blankets. Thorin was helping strip the boys and clean off the death and blood. He looked like a father who had done this act millions of times. His touch was soft and gentle, especially considering how big of a man he was. Bilbo knew how gentle his touch was.
‘Do you need my help?’
Thorin glanced up, startled slightly by his Mate’s presence. ‘Please. Can you put their weapons and leathers to the side, their undergarments will need to be burned.’
‘Death is not pretty.’ He cringed. ‘I am sorry.’
‘No it is not.’ Thorin gave him an encouraging smile. ‘They are still with us, as is Dwalin. They are your boys now also, be prepared for an eternity of their whining.’
‘I kinda like that idea.’ He took good care of each of the weapons, also made sure the leathers were cleaned and set aside. He had a family now, and would make sure they were taken care of.
All three woke up not soon after, a quick lesson on how to handle the sudden new senses. It was then they learned that they had also lost Gloin. He had made sure none of the mercenaries got into the Great Hall, it was after the battle he fell, too much blood loss.
‘What about Gimli?’ Dwalin asked Thorin quietly, watching the boys hold the five year old, who was crying in their arms.
‘Gran says we are all welcome here, but there is a family that will take him in. Builwyf is suggesting we all travel, leave the area for a while to learn new things. He assured us he would know of his father and Erebor.’
‘Where do you plan on going?’
‘I was thinking about Egypt, learn more about my amad home.’ Thorin glanced at Dwalin. ‘And you?’
‘Hiccup told me about Arthur and the Round Table, thought it may be interesting to meet.’ Dwalin paused as Bilbo and the two boys made their way over. ‘How is he?’
‘Sad. Wants his adad. He has made friends with a few of the other kids, right now he is resting with them.’ Fili glanced back to see the small child resting, his red hair standing out against the other kids. ‘So we are all that’s left.’
‘Erebor will always live with us.’ Thorin put a hand on each of his son’s shoulders. ‘We will tell those about her greatness and demise. But for now, we learn to live this new life.’ He stepped away, taking Bilbo into his arms. ‘We are family and that will never change.’
The boys hugged their adad, smushing Bilbo between them, who was protesting at being smothered. Dwalin in a rare show of emotion, wrapped around all of them getting Bilbo to squeak. Thorin chuckled but held on tightly.
August 1954
Thorin was sprawled out on one of the couches in the main hall of the Clan home. It was one of the few couches that he actually fit in, and was thankful that Builwyf had them special ordered. Sounds from the radio were drifting from the kitchen, and the smell of flowers from the garden filled the room from the open doors. It was peaceful, and he was enjoying every moment of it.
Until the peace was shattered with a cry.
“I can’t believe he killed me!”
Thorin glanced up at the main guest rooms half expecting to see his boys run down in the pajamas, but instead Aragorn and Boromir stalked into the living area. Boromir looked irritated, while his Mate had a resigned expression.
“What did I do to him!?”
“I see the book has made the rounds.” Thorin looked over at the Medjai Hunters. “I was surprised he took your histories.”
“He killed me!” Boromir sat down in one of the chairs. “It was a hero’s death but still!”
“Well at least you got a funeral and a song.” Kili stated as he came in from the kitchen, snacking on some of the biscuits Bilbo had made. “We were the ‘also dead’.”
“We were all just happy that Bilbo was not married off, and Frodo was his nephew.” Fili added to the conversation, flopping into one of the chairs. “Adad would’ve been unbearable.”
Thorin rolled his eyes at his son’s antics, but secretly admitted it was true. “Though the random Dwarfs who picked him up was disturbing. Let alone killing Ori, Balin and Oin off scene. And did I not tell you that Gandalf would be up to no good.”
The group started discussing the book, wondering what the next part will be. Boromir was truly worried for the Hobbits Merry and Pippin. As far as Thorin was concerned Sam seemed to be the true hero in the making, standing by his friend through it all.
Aragorn settled near Thorin. “Are you worried Sauron has such a role in the story?”
“If tossing his ass in a Volcano would stop him, Iceland is not that far away.” Thorin stated as he got off the couch. He could hear Aragorn’s laughter as he snagged a few muffins on his way through the kitchen, ignoring his Mate’s indigent yell.
The book was good, Thorin enjoyed it more than the Hobbit. He was looking forward to the rest of the story. Aragorn made a good King disguised as a Ranger. Boromir’s own past fit with his character, which is likely why he was so upset over the situation. Reading about Gloin and Gimli sent a pang through his chest, as much as the deaths of Oin, Ori and Balin.
He wondered if he could find the mithril vest for Bilbo, considering how many times his Mate gets into trouble. Sometimes on his own, others with the boys, and the many times some idiot thought they could make Thorin do something by kidnapping his Mate.
“What leads you out here to stare out into the evening sky in such a dramatic way.”
Thorin didn’t hide the eyeroll. “Contemplating my life choices, being friends with you for one.”
“I’m hurt!” The person stepped out of the shadows and gave Thorin a bright fake smile. “You’re brooding.”
“You would know, as you’re an expert. You disappeared for decades after the last insult.” Thorin noticed that he was dressed in an expensive suit, looking extremely fashionable as if he just stepped off the runways of Milan, then again he might have.
The eye roll was epic, though he stepped closer to Thorin. “I’ve had your Mate’s cooking so why are you out here contemplating life choices when your fellowship is inside.”
“Sometimes it’s too loud.”
“Well with the Ranger and Steward of Gondor inside, that’s not surprising.”
Thorin gave him a contemplative look. “What exactly did you tell Tolkien? The Hobbitwas our story, well we inspired the story. But this whole ‘One Ring’ it’s yours.”
There was a deep sigh before he answered. “I’m sure back home everyone remembers it, but here no one knows. Only a few, you being one of those I trusted or was drunk when I told you.”
“Both. Both are good.” Thorin chuckled softly, remembering the night he learned more about the world and what was beyond it.
“The Goa’uld stole so many from my home. It is odd sometimes to see faces I would know. Aragorn was a good King, never tell him I said that. The one inside is a good Ranger, I think he would make a good King, but he would hate it.”
“Boromir?”
“I liked what he did with the character and made him so very human. The one I knew was a cunning warrior, would do anything for his people so still very accurate, he had his flaws but his loyalty to Aragorn was unwavering.”
“Frodo?” Thorin had always wondered about the ‘Hobbits’.
“Oh yes Frodo. Good man, not a Baggins I might add, that was all Tolkien. Matter of fact there was no Bilbo, as you said that was your story. But it ended up a nice tie into the sequels.” He flipped back his blonde hair and focused on Thorin. “And yes Gandalf was as annoying as the books make him out to be. I obviously couldn’t tell him about the Stargate, or the fact that Goa’uld had put Sauron in charge over us ‘pathetic’ humans. Which is an insult as my home was filled with more than just man.”
“Do you ever regret it?”
“No. Yes. Every damn day.” He sighed and leaned against one of the back fences and stared up at the stars. “The gate and Sauron needed to be tossed into a volcano. I do not regret working to destroy both, nor ending up here. I do regret that the bastard is still alive so to speak.”
“That is one of my own regrets.”
“It is your own uniqueness that made you able to stand against him.”
“Kryptonian.” Thorin gave him a hard look. After he heard Smaug’s story he put all the pieces together and realized what he had not been told all these centuries.
“Ah so how did that get spilled?”
“Loki God of Mischief.”
“That asshole. Well that isn’t surprising. But yes, Kryptonian, no full blood obviously. Direct descendant of darling Rhy’el, at least you don’t shake the ground when you’re pissed. But he’s something totally different, and we all know not to fuck with him.”
“Great sparring partner.”
“I’m sure that’s quite the challenge.” With a dramatic flair only he could possess, he straightened up, fixed his suit and was going to make his way to the kitchen to steal some of Bilbo’s stuffed mushrooms.
“One last question.”
“Sure.”
“How does your son feel about being in the book?” Thorin asked with a small smirk. “Let alone the fact you dragged Gimli in.”
“Oh that was Tolkien, he thought it was a nice tribute to have someone connected to the original Dwarves be a part of the fellowship. As for my son, he’s annoyed and is being dramatic.”
“Much like his father.” Thorin snorted, then glanced around noticing Bilbo was watching them from the kitchen door. “You are welcome inside Thranduil, no matter how annoying you are.”
“Well at least Tolkien used your name, I was just the ElvenKing in your story!”
“I didn’t even know you when Erebor fell.”
“And? What does that have to do with it.” Thranduil huffed as he made his way into the kitchen, aiming straight for the plate of Mushrooms. “I am awesome and deserve to be named.”
“I swear only Malfoy can pull off this dramaticness that you do.” Bilbo handed Thranduil a small plate with all his favorite foods.
“Well until he gets a book written about his adventures, he can stay in my shadow!” He snagged the plate and made his way into the living area, he was bored and there were people he could insult.
Thorin shook his head, still not sure how the two were friends.
When they returned to Norway after spending years in Egypt learning some of his history then training to be an Assassin, he first found Smaug waiting so they could hunt down the dragon Black Death. Afterward he had been approached by Thranduil. Who had told them a wild tale about a Stargate that connected worlds and planets, and how they fought Sauron to destroy the gate. In the battle Sauron and Thranduil had gone over the cliff with the gate, but instead of dying they travelled to Earth.
Sauron ran off to build his army, and had been Turned into a Vampire.
As an Elven King, Thranduil had his own immortality.
The two have always been enemies, and as far as Thranduil was concerned making friends with the one human, who defeated Sauron was a good plan. It had been a contentious friendship but a friendship it was.
And now many will read the book, enjoy a good tale and never know that somewhere there were four Hobbits, two Men, an Elf, a Dwarf and a Wizard who defeated the evil warlord and saved their planet. Nor will they know that a forgotten Elven King and the dethroned King of Erebor will destroy Sauron once and for all.
Three Rings for the Elven-kings under the sky,
Seven for the Dwarf-lords in their halls of stone,
Nine for Mortal Men doomed to die,
One for the Dark Lord on his dark throne
In the Land of Mordor where the Shadows lie.
One Ring to rule them all, One Ring to find them,
One Ring to bring them all and in the darkness bind them
In the Land of Mordor where the Shadows lie.