Thanks to my sons recent obsession with the movies, this has been running around in my head. I am working on another story, so I cannot say how often I will be updating this one. Hopefully every other day. This is my second fic, but my first for the Hobbit. I hope you enjoy.
"It is for the best, Fili. One of us must stay behind for the sake of our people. You are my heir, therefore your duty is to our people first. It is the burden we must bear. I would have you both stay here away from the danger we will face."
"And yet, Kili is still going. You have filled our heads with the glory of Erebor since we were first old enough to understand, and now, as you prepare to take it back, you will deny me the right to bear witness to it."
"Kili goes because he dueled Dwalin and won the right. You have already proven yourself countless times. I would still have you by my side. I cannot, however, dismiss the fact that our people need leadership. Should the worse happen... should we all die, what will become of our people? Though you were young, I know you remember the Battle of Azanulbizar. We lost my grandfather, Frerin, your father, and my father disappeared. I myself could have been lost. No, you must stay behind. You are young yet and will have plenty of time to make your mark. I say this not as your Uncle, but as your head and Prince. Stay here. Lead our people."
"As you wish, my lord," seethes Fili. How could his uncle do this? It was his right, as one of Durins line, to see their home reclaimed. Surely his mother could oversee things until the people could be sent for. They were to have a wizard accompany them. Mahal had to be on their side. If any should remain behind, it should be Kili. He is not even of age yet. Their mother could assist him. Why must it be him?!
Fili makes his way down to the training grounds. He needs to work his anger out. Perhaps he may yet be able to convince his uncle. Before he gets a hit on the dummy, an axe blocks his blow.
"So, Thorin has told you of his decision then, lad?"
"Did you know about this?"
"He has been discussing it with Balin for a few days now. He didn't want to do it, but considering you are all that is left of the Royal line, something had to be done."
"So you agree with him?"
"I wouldn't say I agree with him. I am a warrior, not a politician. I do see their point, though. This is a suicide mission. You know it is. The odds are stacked against us and when all is said and done, someone will have to lead the people."
"Then let Kili stay behind! He is the younger and he has less experience! I have always been there to protect him. What will he do when I am not there?! Who will watch both their backs?!"
"Kili dueled for the right to go, and won, in front of many witnesses. His honor, and the honor of your uncle, would be called into question. You cannot always be there to protect him. I know you love your brother. I have been through fire for mine myself. Perhaps now is the time to see what he can do. Besides, your uncle will be there. Now, if you want to burn off some of that anger, have a go at me. I hit back."
"Do you hate me, Brother?"
"That is the stupidest thing that has ever come out of your mouth. Of course I do not hate you. I am not even angry with you. I am angry with uncle, but not you. I am the one who goaded you into making the challenge. I honestly wasn't sure you were going to win, but I didn't want you to be left behind. I never thought I would be the one to stay."
"I can stay, Fee. You can go in my stead."
"No. Kee, this is your chance to prove yourself. You cannot truly do that with me around."
"Well, you seem to be singing a new tune. According to several witnesses, you were ready to kill when you left Uncle's chambers."
"I was. Unfortunately, I had a run in with Dwalin, and he spoke sense, which made what uncle said make sense. I do not like it, but I have to accept it."
"And this is why you are the responsible one. Mother is pleased, though she is still very upset that I am going."
"Of course. Your her baby boy. She still thinks you're in nappys. What can you expect with that fuzz you have on your chin."
"Har har har."
'When do you leave?"
"In three days. I had the choice to travel with Uncle or Dwalin to the Shire. I chose Uncle, so we need to leave a few days earlier to make that meeting. You should make it right with him, you know. We will be gone for a while. Do not live with a regret you can prevent."
"Look at you, being all wise. Alright. I'll see him before you leave."
"Mother. What brings you to the lookout?"
"The same thing that brought you: watching them until they are out of sight. I am proud of you, my son. I know you are not pleased with this, but I cannot lie and say it does not give me a bit of peace to know at least one of you are safe. I dare say I will be out of sorts over them being gone on this fools quest. Oh, do not give me that look. I wish to have our home reclaimed as much as the next dwarf, but this is not the way to do it. My only hope is that they return to us."
"They will, Mum. They will."
"A raven! A raven from Erebor!"
"What are you on about, Mother?"
"Fili! It is a raven from Erebor with a message for you! It is in Balin's writing! Quickly, my love, what does it say?!"
"Erebor has been reclaimed..."
"What is it, Fili?! What else does it say?"
"Thorin and Kili have fallen..."