Disclaimer: I do not own any languages, places, characters, events or situations belonging to J.R.R. Tolkien, Peter Jackson and Co. All other characters and OC's belong to me and are based off of those in the Avatar: Last Airbender universe but I 'Tolkiened' them to create something of my own. It's a slow build and I have written chapters to include a bit of the OC description through the words of the canon characters so you have to keep reading...I hope you all enjoy!
AN: Renlin and Ramlin are two dwarf brothers in this chapter and are my OC's. Their story is that their parents are from another part of the world and became very well-respected by the dwarves of Erebor.
Blue Mountains, 2923 Third Age - Thorin's Halls were loud and lively with merriment as it was the rare time other than Durin's Day that the children of Aule the Vala Smith could rest and take pleasure in trusted company that equally took part in the standard tradition. Ghizulabùrûfazlel, or The Day of Remembrance, reveres and celebrates the ancestors and their achievements throughout the ages. The day varies according to dwarves lines but all would pay tribute to their forefathers. Gathering of those that had tales and conversing of fond remembrance, merry-making, stories, and meeting old friends would brighten any dull mood. The partaking of ale, meats, fruits, breads, and cheeses brought a much needed delight for many that wished to forget the wanton death dealt so many years ago. In one part of the halls, Gloin and one of the elders discussed how they have enjoyed their times in the far end of the world. As Gloin stood next to the wall, he along with the others enjoy watching Gimli chase Kili around a column and catch him off guard with a spear shove to the floor. "I got you Kili!", the young son of Gloin laughed. "Not so fast!", Kili shouted as Gimli's early relishing in victory was short-lived when Kili climbed up and wrestled him to the floor. Fili and Dwalin joined in and it became a comical team effort. Gloin shook his head and mumbled something about 'kids today' but a proud gleam in his eye.
"Aye, these times are best to be enjoyed while we stand", Gloin shared.
"Or sit or be laying down, which ever comes first. Either way you're neck is getting a hug from my sword.," said an old dwarf followed by the others laughing.
Renlin, an elder and cherished family friend, came to peace with his last years as he finished his last bit of ale. He was the older brother of Ramlin, whose parents came from the other side of Arda, and aided in many counsel meetings and trained plenty of warriors to help them withstand the wars that approached. "We are warriors Gloin," he said merrily albeit the frailty in his voice was not all that pitiful for he remained a sign of optimism for his fellow friends. "Fighters until the end. As my dear brother used to say, 'Give me your worst, and I'll give you my best axe whippin'.' Ha, ha, he could never resist a good jest and he had the gall to back it up as well."
Gloin edged a smile as he was often fond of the resilient spirit of his long lost friend. "There will probably be no other dwarves like you and your brother. You lost a leg in Moria but you two held it together whilst Thorin severed that dreaded Bolg's arm off."
Renlin closed in his arm to his chest as he stifled a cough. "We did all that we could bahel. I often wonder if I had been in a further location if the outcome were different and many more would have been saved", he gently sobbed. Along the harsh lines on his face, a tear rolled down his cheek and found its way to the edge of his white beard.
"You did all that you could, bahel. This life has not been an easy one but you stuck it through", the stalwart dwarf consoled as he patted Renlin's shoulder.
Ramlin was a very respected dwarf that was not all that greedy and protected his friends and kin from any that wronged them or judged them unfairly. His parents were not from that part of Arda but that would not exclude them from what they all shared in common - dwarf heritage and some of the most graceful warrior skills they had ever seen. He was a more enlightened dwarf who if he should find a rare gem he would give it to the king in which he served. The others would look to him with awe and bewildered at his offering of free will but glad nonetheless that he was so gracious and charitable. Ramlin became a trusted ally and friend to Thrain and the others and kept his head as level as possible as it became more difficult in later years. Thorin looked up to him as a second father and would often look forward to hearing what he had to say. Balin found a great deal of himself in Ramlin as well and respected each other's advice and counsel and Ramlin was described as 'delightfully eccentric' by many. After Ramlin mysteriously did not return from Rhosgabel with special medicine to stock Oin's storage was when Thrain began to let madness consume his core.
"Aye indeed. If friends must go in death, let their spirits guide our weapons in the next battle", Gloin concluded before toasting to a once more spirited night. Thorin approached with a goblet of wine which he managed to snag from Dwalin before he would have too much. "Evening Thorin my lord", the two nodded.
"Evening Master Gloin. Master Renlin, always good to be in your company", the king acknowledged. The dwarf had an 'elvish smile' indicating that it was quite attractive, even in his old age of 266, but he would not entertain on this due to the long hostility between his kin and elves. "I solemnly swear that my smile is none other than that of a happy dwarf. And that is before the ale.", he jovially acknowledged with his hands in surrender. The king of Durin's folk gave a harsh glance before smiling at the elder before him and all would join in laughter. "Here is to you, your 'adad and 'amad, Mahal rest their souls, and your brother Ramlin, wherever he may be, may he always be remembered and passed on in many tales." He hoisted his tankard to eye level and the others followed suit as everyone took avid notice of their king smiling. They cheered in Khuzdul before finishing the remains of their ale and continued to tell tales of ancients up to recent warriors that had proven themselves worthy. Battles that they would love to forget were teachers of what to remember for the strength, endurance, and stamina of a race so secretive that it is easily misunderstood. From behind Renlin, joined Balin, son of Fundin and brother to Dwalin. "Evening Majesty. Evening Masters Gloin and Renlin", the advisor bowed slightly. They greeted him and they sat down to speak of which ancestors motivated them the most during their growing up.
Balin remembered how highly a dwarf couple were in thought and honor after an incident in Dale where they were ambushed by southern bandits. A dwarf husband and wife, Romlin and Iaseln, were working in their forge where the borders of Dale met the valley of Erebor's front door when their shops were rummaged for their impressive weapons. Confrontation was made and a battle was ensued both with high intensity. Knives were drawn and clanked in a raucous of defense and malice. Romlin displayed his acrobatic skills in fighting and how swiftly him and his wife defended the city. Iaseln displayed keen accuracy in paralyzing her victims with her thorough knowledge of pressure points and fluidly maneuvering her body to dodge attacks imitating downstream water flowing around a rock. Only two out of the fourteen bandits ran away with their lives on that day and they were even willing to compensate damage spent to the shops.
At the conclusion of the festivities, the dwarves would give their final good-byes and depart for their homes amongst the mountains and continue with the days work. One dwarf in particular robed in sky blue and silver trim strode proudly to the entrance of his halls after he bid his final good-bye to the others. It took a bit of doing but he was able to find the material that matched closely enough of those that his forefathers wore as kings of old. As Thorin Oakenshield, son of Thrain of the Line of Durin, made his way down the hall, he suddenly remembered Oin speaking of how signs of hope would be received to those that desired with purest intentions to rectify any wrongdoings upon their family. He definitely had plenty of time to brood on it.
2830, Blue Mountains - As Ramlin, prepared to journey to Rhosgabel for special herbs, the folk saw him off and his company of four with food and supplies. Oin gave him bags to keep the herbs from drying out before they would be ready to use. As friendly as Radagast the Brown was, he hardly made conversation with anyone other than animals but Ramlin had established an understanding with him so of course he was selected to go; just as he had been the last several times.
"May Mahal guide your path safely there and back and your axe should you ever need to use it", Thrain said to him.
Ramlin checked his flask for water and noticed Thorin approaching him. He placed his hand around the prince's broad shoulders,
"Hey there narel, what troubles you?", he asked him. Thorin held determination in his features as he spilled his worries.
"Nothing, Ramlin, it's just..", he paused for a moment in finding the most meaningful words, "just please come back to us", Thorin softly pleaded. "Father will need you back soon. I fear that he may grow weary from a new place so quickly. Some may believe that we have given up." Ramlin sighed and took Thorin to the side away from most of the crowd.
"My dear Thorin, take care of your father. He needs you so much right now. Though I labor in heart and mind to keep him up it shall not stop once I'm gone."
Thorin half smiled at his adopted uncle before he turned to adjust his pack of tools. "Thank you Ramlin. We shall await your return dear warrior.", he said to the red-headed dwarf as he walked down a pass that would cut through the south side of Bree.
"Who knows, Thorin?", he yelled back for everyone to hear. "Maybe I'll bring you back a wife with diamonds in her eyes, honor and truth in her heart, and can swing a battle axe through the thickest of skulls. Just don't let her become one, that'd be bad for my matchmaking business. Then you can thank me!", he laughed as Thorin tried to hide a blush. No one could put it past Ramlin to die trying should a woman exist for his adopted nephew. They bid their farewells and Thrain stood proudly next to his son with the morning sun upon their faces.
Three days before Ghizulabùrûfazlel - Thorin and Balin treaded up the mountain path after making profit from axes and mattocks - both with food on their mind from a strenuous yet lucrative day. Balin could sense Thorin's thoughts and offered some cheer. "There is much to look forward to here in the halls you have built. A life of peace and plenty is much deserved and welcome by all of our people that without you we would never live to know."
Thorin turned a weary look to the counsel, "Aye, Balin I shan't cease adding on to our home that is here and ignoring what splendors it can be wrought. I grow weary with impatience at the coming of a sign. I know not what more I can do." Balin's tone tried to reach into the sensible part of Thorin's mind as it was difficult to do sometimes.
"All will piece together in time. You will see. Just do not forget that we all would like to see one as much as you. Nor do we want to see you upset like this. Maybe some time alone out here will do you much good." Thorin's glance gave signal to consideration of Balin's suggestion as they strode to level ground and into the halls and through the glorious doors to the back and side to set their equipment and wash up for dinner.
Night of Ghizulabùrûfazlel ending - As if by coincidence, Thorin spotted Oin turning back to his room. He quickened his pace before he retired for the night. "Oin, a short word of counsel."
"Yes, sire", Oin grunted as he steadied his ear trumpet. He spoke deep enough for Oin to understand him, "Any news of a sign?" Thorin was eager and not wanting to be saddened by any bad news. "So far only the same", replied Oin.
"That is what you said last time", an impatient Thorin responded. During these days accomplishment in the prosperity of his people were indeed met but he wanted more for him - and his people. So thoughtful was his intention, so insightful that he wanted to return home. After all, who didn't want more for himself and to reestablish his right to have his kingdom? Surely it was harmless but he would find himself only feeling selfish and situating his fate to a dangerous and malicious dragon. In all of his pride he remained strong in his beliefs and awaited the healers answer.
"Oh, sorry, I thought you spoke of something else. Well, I am not jesting when I say that the earlier applies to this matter also. Patience is a virtue although it is never fun. Us seer's and healers can only work so fast. The gods would not appreciate us treading on their good works and calling them slow."
Thorin glanced down and closed his eyes to recall his feelings. "Be as it may, I cannot sleep nor eat as much as I normally would."
"Why don't you seek your own answers in a more universal way? Sometimes stepping out of the king's boots is the healthiest thing for a kingdom."
Thorin felt taken aback at the suggestion. "Isn't that why we have you? It has been years since I've looked unto the stars for advice. I know only to keep asking you for any news or portents."
Oin in his age of knowledge and understanding was all but hasty in response to his noble leader. "You only hurt yourself when you give in to despair. Take some time away from here and your yearning for home long enough to hear it from the experts," he softly encouraged while gesturing to the heavens.
Thorin furrowed his brow as Oin stunned him with the obvious. "Take time to yourself and ask the gods of when you shall be expected to be granted any sign and in time we shall have one. And a most long-awaited holiday for me", Oin jested.
With that, Thorin thanked and dismissed him before turning in for that night. His mind weighed the chances but he still found himself with no hope. The blankets hugged his weary body as he eased into a sleep.
Three nights later - Thorin Oakenshield gazed at the overhead stars that gave the impression of diamonds laid out for just his eyes. It was great to get away from the previous engagements as his nephews had decided to arrange for Dwalin and Dori to slip on an ale-covered floor that made them slide into each other as if having a drunken waltz. Fili would be no help as he could not stop laughing long enough to help clean up the mess. Dis provided the punishment so as everyone could continue the leftovers from the feast for extra food for them was a rare occasion.
Dismissing thoughts of the earlier fiasco, he smiled softly at the stars before bowing his head and inhaling at the wreckage of sore memories from long ago. To allow some mental clarity, he would often stand atop of a hill secluded by trees and large rocks and it gave him ample time to think and pray unto those gone before him. He imagined ridding of Smaug, the dreaded beast that dared attacked his home making him rue the day that he ever stepped his monstrous feet inside their sacred kingdom. As he glanced around, he said aloud, for it was a rare moment for him to ever plead his case.
"Mahal, if it be, I will one day make it all right again for that one day we will reclaim our homeland, restore our name, and rekindle our legacy. If it be, that I can make my ancestors proud and provide peace of mind once again to our people, most notably to myself, I will do so honorably and seek those that are willing to assist that they will carry out an memorable legacy of their own. I ask of you to please send me a sign. I long behold to see those halls again that my people worked and labored so arduously and so proudly for not once did we complain of the many hours put into our magnificent mountain. I think of gold and silver, and with all that I have in me I fight the greed that plagues my line. Do I have the means to overcome this hideous madness?" His voice began to break and he straightened his voice. He sniffed as the cold air shivered his neck and he tightened his cloak around him.
"If it be, then I will one day when the time is appropriate, I will do right by you and for the sake of our people. I ask you Mahal, to Eru above, if their be any sign of hope, we could all use it right now."
And with that, he turned and began to walk away silent and heavy of heart.
Someone had been camping around for almost two weeks near Thorin's Halls and observed him from his weapons and sparring practices outside and his lament at his secret place near the right entrance of his halls.
Saddened and infatuated with Thorin's deeply buried side of emotion and humanity, the power behind his words and rich deep voice near breaking set her heart in a frenzy. The strangers' dwarf ears, however smaller and more than adorable were lightly adorned with jewelry made for her by herself and her families. She had beautiful sideburns of long red waves streaked with vibrant gold hairs that paused just below the level of her earlobe at the angle of her jaw. They were soft and quite attractive, even thought so among several elves, a rarity in itself. Earlier in the week, she had to remove her jewelry from her ears for gold and silver do not automatically incubate when you want them to. Firebending them warm would have been impractical for she would have literally been a flaming redhead. She turned to see him walk away only to see him whip his head around and smell an exotic perfume in the air. 'Hmm, what could that be?', he questioned himself internally. Whether this made sense to him or not, it was uncanny that he asked for a sign and suddenly a foreign yet very inviting fragrance filled the air. He had never smelled something that it made him rather amorous and he became a bit embarrassed but then realized that he was alone. Or was he?
"How….lovely", he said dreamily. A tone rarely heard from Thorin if not at all.
"Dragon snot." she cursed under her breath. In haste, she covered herself with a blanket of leaves and quickly her scent would hopefully be gone. She peeked her head from under it, and he noticed it was gone.
"Well, hmm", the voice was a bit louder. Oh no, did he come down to investigate? She should have known the suspicious nature of dwarves but she was so touched at his plea that she had forgotten about that entirely. In more haste, she encased herself in the rock that she used as her 'hidey-hole' to keep from being seen. She could not hear anything but waited for a few minutes. Her air supply was from a hollow underneath and she fashioned it to see for his boots. She heard the withdrawing of heavy footsteps and took a chance of coming out from the rock.
She emerged with all of her supplies and would lose a bit of sleep for the fear of being caught and explaining her identity. If she had told him that she knew of the arkenstone, he probably would not have understood. Earlier in the week, he made a rather cantankerous reference to the previous Omnien and how he never came to help if the safety of the castle and its riches should be compromised. She had to lessen her anger at this, for even she didn't know the entire story.
At the description of the 'king's jewel', she was so moved by his verbal description of its glory and of how much it meant to him. She had heard tales of evil dragons and how their greed and lack of remorse solidified their black hearts. 'How can one so vile take away all that makes someone happy?' she thought to herself.
'I will give him something to be happy about, to help him on his journey bound for home', she thought. She searched in her satchel and pulled out a few items and found the perfect one. "This should be most pleasing to him. I just, hope it does not think on it as ill will or wasted time.", she said as she began to write a note on a piece of parchment and package the item. Her little fury friend that accompanied her nudged her arm as he sensed her longing to tell him more. "It's all right Ippa. I should not burden him with my presence. I would only be a distraction." The creature gazed at her with concern in his large green eyes and let out a gentle encouraging chirp. "It's for the best. Should he go and reclaim his homeland, the risk of having me there would be too great. You remember? I can't be with someone from this world." She sighed heavily as she began to write the letter; her chest hurt with what she desired and how she had to let it go and hold it dear in spirit. 'This may be the last time I ever see him', she thought grudgingly for her heart laying claim to him despite the position she held in the world.
The next morning, Thorin awoke to pleasant thoughts of whatever could have been that wonderful scent from last night. He had decided to pamper himself and would sleep through the yelling from that morning's choice of breakfast being mutton instead of veal that had been promised. Despite Kili's outburst, he was in quite a good mood while donning his clothes and headed down to the hall for some much needed food.
He made his way to the dining hall and found his sister Dis sitting by herself finishing the last of her mutton, toast, fried potatoes, and eggs.
"Need I guess what called for bickering in here this morning?"
"Kili wanting to argue over the meat for breakfast. The spoiling of that one must be reduced." She said glowering at her youngest son's earlier tantrum. He certainly knew what he wanted and like any other dwarf, never forgot a promise.
"I'll have a talk with him later. Where is Gloin's wife, your faithful companion?" he asked as he pulled out his chair.
"Ah, in the study. She is preparing all new stories from yesterday into a book. She always had a knack for compiling information and record keeping. Helps from when we wandered the land so much."
With her brother's usual scowl being shielded by impishness, the dwarf princess could not help but notice his change in attitude.
"You look quite bright-eyed this morning. What would be the reason for this momentous occasion?", she smiled. Thorin kept a low brow at this as he helped himself to some fried eggs.
"Just happy to get a good nights rest is all. I'm famished." he retorted as he sat down at the end of the long ornately carved stone table.
"I was hoping you didn't strain your vocals last night. You need them in top shape when ordering others around." Her tone was sweet yet curious about his sudden change of mood last night.
Thorin widened his eyes at his sister's reference without depleting too much of his usual self. Good grief, was he that loud? His singing was a moment of joy for him but he disregarded anyone hearing him. He made a mental note to be much quieter.
It didn't help that a few watchmen snickered at his lightened steps through the halls. It seemed as if he had a very vivid childhood memory to elevate his mood the way he had acted. A simple smile was even bestowed to a lesser miner dwarf that shared a fear of receiving an angry look from the exiled king.
"I'm fine, I had a great time at the festival and the ale was not finished with me. The air is fresher and the cold does not bite my flesh as it used to,", he paused as she peered into his eyes searching for a usual long answer of haughtiness. He finished with the hurried statement, "Singing merrily should not be unlikely for anyone. I do it all the time." This was a forced fib of course, but it was a good excuse for him to focus on how much salt he put on his eggs.
In his efforts to be convincing, he did not see her look of disbelief as she continued finished her toast. Fili and Kili, and the others had already eaten and went outside for more weapons practice.
"Well, after our most recent gathering, many have spoken highly of getting our original home back. The stories from the past have always been praised as accomplishments but it should not seem as a dangerous chore."
"I have long had it on my mind as you know."
"Have you even planned on how to go about it?"
"I'm working on it, day and night," he added. "When the chance arises, I will have to carefully arrange everything."
"I know that all too well, but you must understand what you are up against. I have all the faith in you in the world, but I just ask of you to please be careful and do not quicken anything that should not be. That is all." It was all she could do to not chuck a piece of rock at him for the toast would not do although she did entertain the thought. In his effort, he would take her words as nothing but loving concern.
"I am pleased namad, and I do not overlook your concern. I just want to know of a sign, a sign that all will be well soon. From what you barely remember our ancestors created a spectacular home for us. Our crafts were sought after by many that visited while our markets never ran out of good share. That is what I hope to restore if when we return home."
"Even when seeking counsel from the gods, these things take time", she said as she leaned back in her chair. "Oin has kept you as current as possible on the matter so all you can do is wait and not rush things."
"I need all the reassurance I can get. For my people and for our future generations. I only keep the last of good intentions from our father and grandfather in my heart. For if they only prayed on themselves to reclaim our homeland, then what harm should come to me for asking for a sign and the right time to venture there?" Upon sipping her drink, she comforted her brother.
"It will come when you least expect it. Besides, we have been well here for years on end and yet you still brood over that mountain. And don't get me started on the many chances you have had with what few dwarf women are left. Mahal knows that you could be setting your sights on Tama from the southern edge of Eriador but she married someone else. Oh, well I guess it was for the best."
The subject of marriage was not important to Thorin and he would say, he had 'other matters to attend to' only thing was that they all centered around the Lonely Mountain. The thought of a wife was not on the top of the priority list for him. If he were to take back the mountain and become settled (with Smaug dead of course), then all would be perfect should he pursue a wife and queen. He had named his nephew his heir due to him not being married as he thought of his treasure too much for any woman to put up with it. He was a gentledwarf in the company of women unless they were rude or asked for too much. He thought that was sensible enough. He never bothered with concubines no matter how genuine they were. To be fair, he would not bear someone he courted with his troubles and frustrations of his past. He remembered the words of Ramlin about finding him a suitable wife beyond his wildest dreams and chuckled inwardly.
He then snapped away from the memory and found himself back in his dining hall. "We mutually agreed that we are better off as friends. She was a gentle one thou-"
"Uncle! Uncle! You have a letter!" Thorin stood in place with a hand placed on his sword at the startling racket and eased up upon seeing his nephews with a fierce insistence.
Fili and Kili rushed into the room interrupting the breakfast followed by a more distinguished entrance from Balin. The interruption was most thankful for having a consort was turning into an edgy subject. He hated being duped into these conversations but that was his sister - a self-appointed psychiatrist on a matchmaking trip.
"A letter? I was not expecting any mail", he said with suspicion in his eyes.
"Yes, I've never seen anything like it!" Fili shouted in enthusiasm.
Balin picked the letter from Fili's hands when it seemed that he would not let go of it and held it out for Thorin.
"It is addressed to you. The parchment is unlike anything I've ever seen." Balin handed a snow-white parchment package with gold flecks and bound in gold string that shone without sunlight. It was folded into an octagon shape as if to pocket something. Thorin studied the package as if dark magic may spring out at any minute however the parchment was so unique and grasped his attention.
"Real gold." Thorin whispered in awe.
"It appears so", smiled Balin, "That is some skill indeed. But what is probably more urgent is what is inside." As Thorin unraveled it a seed, a bit smaller than a pumpkin seed swirled into a vibrant sea of color of blue, silver, and a bit of pearl fell to the floor. It seemed harmless enough when suddenly glowing light lined the cracks of it and he at first wondered if it was some sort of sorcery. "Stay back, all of you", he cautioned as he slowly stepped towards it.
He picked it up and analyzed it with utter awe and the others closed in to check it further. "A seed? What good is that for us?" Fili's mixed expression was soon agape when the colors shone even in the dimly lit dining hall. It glistened in Thorin's hands like a miniature light blue star. He peered at it and soon a soft and joyous smile lit his face. "Perhaps a way of telling us when we should arrange going home.", he then said.
"Move over a bit." Kili shoved his brother to the side to which Balin shoved him back in the same fashion. "One at a time now. Remember this is your uncle''s gift."
They eased up a bit as Thorin held up the seed. "Of what purpose would this serve?", Kili inquired.
Dis was awestruck too and searched for any possible explanation. "Maybe the letter will say", she pointed out. At the mention, Thorin held the letter written very legibly and beautifully, read,
Thorin, King of Durin's Folk,
Please forgive me but upon learning of your recounted tale of your stolen home, I offer my deepest empathy for your cause. As an alternative, I hope that you will accept this precious seed. To make it grow, hold it in your hand for five seconds with a clenched fist and release your grip in sunlight. I hope it suits you for it is not the most masculine of gifts but if you give it a chance, you will not be disappointed. I know it will not replace what you hold dearest, but it is the least that I can offer.
Kindest regards,
One that Understands
At this rate, he could have easily turned angry at someone listening in on his private prayer time, or rejoice at the fact that a 'sign' was sent to him at last. Thinking back on the talk of 'coincidence' he felt a rush of exhilaration at the foreign seed. "Great Mahal! Could this be it?" he exclaimed. He picked up Dis who was standing next to him and swung her around once in gladness of a break in the usual routine and placed her back down. "Oh bless it, not this again", Dis half smirked while straightening her dress top.
"Dis you don't understand! This is the least I've expected but still, it is something!" Thorin acted as an overprotective father at the dismissing comment to this most illustrious collection piece. "Just because it shines in your hands does not mean it's the sign you've been waiting for. It does not make any sense. Some further investigation should be done. By the looks of it, it may have been crafted from a hobbit dabbling in sorcery", she joked as her sons joined in on the laughter.
"Oh go and joke about if you must!" His forceful tone did not match the smile that still spread across his strong face. He beamed at the little object as the others would wonder what on earth he was talking about. Balin considered that all of his prayers had been answered as he began to lightly celebrate with him. "If anything, it may be a reward of some sort. For being a provider and leader for us all."
"Uncle, if it is the sign you've been longing for, how can we tell? What is it supposed to do - 'grow' a garden of plans to get the mountain back?"
"Can't we plant it at the bottom of the mountain to grow some glowing apples?", the youngest prince clowned but it was clear that Fili was truly intrigued. For his young age of sixty-four, he was made Thorin's heir and thought it best to take this serious. Fili's quizzical expression would not faze Kili for he was just glad to see his uncle smile. Dis was a bit skeptical of this being directly from the realm of Vala but could not reject the notion that he asked for something and this was not an ordinary occurrence for them at all. She was more interested in any purpose rather than its appearance, although it was striking.
"Well then, do you know what it is supposed to do?", she wondered.
"Well, um...apparently, um…", Thorin trailed much to everyone's amusement.
Huffing at their grins, he scrambled for the letter to find the instructions. "Squeeze it in my hand for five seconds and release my grip in sunlight", he whispered hurriedly before running out of the dining hall, down a long gold-lined corridor and exiting the halls followed by the others. What a great morning it was for the sun was bright and flickering light upon the snowy mountain caps. Once out of the shadows, he squeezed the seed in his hand for five seconds and waited for this mystery to do 'something.' A few seconds went by and nothing. "Why is it not working?" Thorin inquired angrily. "Give it some time", calmed Balin. "You never know about these things."
"I hope it's not a trap." quipped Kili before Dis hit him in the shoulders.
Thorin waited for almost a minute and still nothing happened. Fury began to course through his veins at the thought of someone making a fool out of him. "It appears that someone has tried to take advantage of my pain and the wishes of my father and grandfather. Well it is the last time!" He went to throw it down but luckily for him he took notice of a sudden change and then, the strangest thing happened. He took in with amazement as a light blue crystal emerged from the seed in the shape of a small young leaflet. Another soon followed and in one minute exactly, the seed blossomed into a gem in the shape of a rose!
This was the last thing that even the wisest of dwarves expected. The light blue petals were rimmed with glittering silver and matched the leaves that also shone with a golden gleam. The leaves were adorned with iridescent pearls in assorted sizes like droplets of water after a spring rain. It grew to the size of his hand and shone like water in the sunlight. So brilliant and bold was its gleam it was a most peculiar and wondrous phenomenon they had ever witnessed. It was as if water in its clearest majesty froze into this delicate shape and the most wonderful thing of all - it was his house colors of light blue and silver. "By my beard," Balin softly whispered.
"Uncle I want to hold it, please? Please can I?", bounced Kili as Thorin showed it to him. The moment it was placed in his palms, the rose began to glow softly but the sunlight would not allow for the full glory to be seen. Dis insisted that she give it back to him as they did not know of how durable it was.
"Guess Kili was wrong, as well as you." Dis could not help but tease him at his impatience to which Thorin would try to hide out of pride. He gazed in bewilderment at this unusual gift but could not understand what it meant.
"This sign is most unusual. This generous offer...", at a loss for words he took a deep breath all the while holding the flower to his chest and thanked Mahal. Thorin motioned to return inside to the dining hall and ordered tankards with ale to celebrate. Thorin sat in his chair and cast his eyes at the rose of crystal sky.
"Whoever this stranger is that brought this, he is obviously one sent from above."
"How do you know it is a 'he' exactly?" Thorin turned his head to see Dis reading the letter. He hurried over to snatch it from her hands but she was too quick. She walked beside Balin to avoid being glared by Thorin. "Give that back!", he commanded but his sister took no heed.
"Your gift-bearer was a female, Thorin", she continued with keen interest. Thorin cocked one eyebrow at her conclusion but was having too much fun with his new gift. "Who has time for gender specifics when you are given such splendor? And besides a sole woman coming here to bear this to me where she would have been easily caught or suffered from the sharp chill of the wind? Unlikely at best." Marveling at his new toy and swatting Kili's prying hands, he didn't exactly deny the possibility in his head.
Dis was still unrelenting as she provided clues from the letter. "Unlikely you say, and yet this mystery person seemed to hear a lot of what you had to say. Probably a weeks time if not more than that. Who would stick around here that long if it wasn't someone who felt the need to nurture your cause unless it was a female?"
"What do you mean?", Thorin inquired. As Fili and Kili would tease their uncle over a potential secret admirer, Dis pointed out the details. "It says here, 'for it is not the most masculine of gifts', which implies, Oh, ha! Female! Clearly showing concern for your rugged dwarven malehood."
Kili chuckled silently to himself at this while Balin smirked to which Thorin did not notice. "Also, 'one who understands'? That is too sweet for any male to write. Reading it all the way through, it is a definite. Takes a female to know it", she said triumphantly while handing back the letter to which he hurriedly grabbed it.
Thorin also remembered the exotic fragrance that sent him over the edge to where his bath last night called for his needs to be attended to (he was a male after all) and indeed, he would not completely eradicate the notion but if this 'female' was here she had to be long gone by now. Alas, his hopes were gone on that one. ''Just a rare perfume.' He thought. He looked at his new gift and at the letter and smiled inwardly at his newfound hope. They saw Dori treading toward them with another letter, a bit smaller but was easy to find. Thorin and Balin approached him. "My lord, this was found near the same place as the other letter."
"Any sign of the bearer of these letters, Dori?" Thorin asked fervently.
"Not a one. They were out scouting but could not find anything. Only this was left."
He handed him a long piece of shimmering opalescent chain with a charm of clustered diamonds and amethysts at the end. It had a clasp on one end, what he assumed to be a broken necklace. Once again, remarkable craftsmanship and yet so delicate and strong. As he held the chain next to the gem flower, he noticed that they accented each other quite nicely. Then he remembered the other note!
He unfastened it and it read,
Dear Thorin,
Terribly sorry for this, but in conclusion to you being the proud new owner of this gift, to claim full ownership, you must give it a name. I know it sounds silly, but it is rather 'responsive' so all the better that you have it.
Sincerely,
One Who Understands
It was a sign of hurriedness on the scribes behalf for the feeling of being watched was on high alert. 'Should she come back for the chain, I will use it to commemorate this precious gift', he thought.
Nori had then burst through the door with news that he saw someone run off into the night but could not make out who or what it was. "I was chasing after, something, but then it took off with a gust of wind. Very graceful like and quick. The light of my torch was gone from the tail end of its wind. Intriguing but too swift for me."
Thorin scowled although he would not anger any holy being should that be the messenger. "A spirit perhaps but all the same, a very generous one at that. That is all Nori.", he replied. Nori formally bowed his head and departed the room. before tending to his daily agenda and deciding how he was going to wear his gift.
After having the gem examined, even reexamined, they concluded that it was very real tanzanite, silver and pearl and of a rare quality. The dwarves would find it hard to believe that it actually grew, but after the others explained that they had saw the forming, the disbelief became a wonder. "I think it looks mighty kingly. Even if it looks like something from a garden." Dwalin could not help but remark on it, although it was a mighty sight to behold. "Not even the richest soil or cleanest water can attest to this." Thorin replied. Thorin pondered on a name and came up with the perfect one.
"I shall call you, 'Umhudkhi khajimel". Once the words left Thorin's throat, the flower began to glow softly in his hands and it softened into a sparkling glory.
Dwalin showed a half-smile. "I think it likes that name." Thorin could not believe it. "Whoever this gift-bearer is, he or she sure does have remarkable taste." He made an extra clasp for the piece of shimmering chain, that he was going to connect to one end to the rose, but before he could the rose reached for the end and they became linked. He only saw need to use the extra clasp for his shirt. For almost all events, he proudly displayed it on his shirt and could be made out from under his cloak. He made a specially designed breast-plate when armored to suit the flower's size and for his own comfort.
As the years would pass, Thorin could not shake the thought of the gift-bearer. From where does this gift-bearer come from? If it is female, is she beautiful? Why would the spirit not talk to him directly? Will there be other signs in the future? He would be in the middle of reading, speaking with his counsel, or taking a hammer to a shield, and suddenly the thought would return, but to only gnaw at his frustration.
He would refer to the flower for an uplift, when it glowed in the dark for him to see when he roamed about.
There was only one time that a client had heard of this rose and tried to steal it. The hired thief had pounced on Dwalin to get closer to Thorin. Once he touched it, it grew sharp long thorns from underneath and pierced the thief's flesh. Once the thief was gone, the thorns vanished. The dwarves witnessed that the petals arranged to create an angry face along with the long spikes that disappeared with the absence of danger. It would be a delightful tale once the shock wore off and it was but a month before Thorin would allow anyone to come near it. As far as greed, this was a sentimental gift that he would not take for granted. It seemed to have a calming effect on him long enough for him to gather what all he would need to prepare for the reclamation of his dear homeland. The flower was quite responsive and when there was excessive joy it would radiate a glow in Thorin's hands. So remarkable was this find that Thorin would present it as a symbol of hope for others but as though by warning, the glow became a low swirling black-blue as if it were sad. Whenever this happened, he would secure it in his chambers and it would be a plain shining gem flower again. "Strange. It's as if you are a secret messenger.", he said one evening before leaving it on his night stand. Thorin then thought it best to not show it off too much as he did not want it to be a similar situation with the arkenstone however precious it was to him.
That night before Gandalf had left his halls, he unfastened the rose from his shirt and let the wizard admiringly observe its fine glistening petals. He told him he only wished that he thought to craft it but that it was a mysterious gift. "My that is a rather rare piece. I have only heard of such things in another part of this world, but not Middle-earth." Thorin would then tell him of how he came upon this gift and Gandalf was very intrigued. Thorin held in the light as the other dwarves paid homage with bowing of their heads in respect. "In all of my longing for what has been lost, but not forgotten, and I never forget wrongs or drawn out debts, this was bestowed to me from one of great mystery. A blessing from the gods. I keep it with me always." Gandalf wondered who gave this to Thorin, but still has yet to be determined as what his thoughts would only hope.
"Quite remarkable indeed", said the grey wizard. "It would seem that one thought fondly enough of you to use this should you need it. It is very special indeed.", he said with an assuring nod.
"And I intend to place it beside the arkenstone. Should this quest be a success", he reiterated.
Gandalf studied him and noticed all too well that Thorin still lacked the hope of achieving his goals. "Spirits and spiritual beings do not have free schedules often. They may not have had time to explain anything to you, thus the letters being the only way you know that they exist. Trust in me Thorin, I have the utmost faith in my choice of burglar." Thorin cut him off, "Why not the Omnien? The keeper of balance in the world? Surely we will have certainty of success with his greatness! I have seen all too well of his abilities what with mastering all four elements once he demonstrated them for us long ago. After all, we deserve his help from when his proclamation to protect us and those in Dale failed on the day we saw that blasted dragon." Gandalf soured his expression which decelerated into sorrow. "My dear Thorin, I am afraid that our current omnien is detained at the moment."
"What could be troubling him?", the heir of Durin asked incredulously.
Gandalf lifted his head, "SHE, is currently, well, indisposed. By that I mean that we may have her assistance and we may not. But please leave that in my hands. This must be kept simple and oblivious to the ears and eyes of others. With my choice of burglar you will not fail. He will be glad to assist you."
Gandalf could not help but be tickled at the sight of Thorin's face when he emphasized on the Omnien being a 'she'. Thorin's character was a complex one indeed and for him to show an inclined interest to one of great power to be a female; he probably had to see it to believe it. Gandalf decided to not mention anything else should he ask for any distraction could spell trouble for him or the company.
"She?", he curiously asked followed by the wizard angling his head in a nod.
"That is most unfortunate", he said straining to be polite. "I have not forgotten how the other one demanded the stone be hidden away but nonetheless I have not completely narrowed my list of options", he then looked unto Gandalf, his face befallen of most stubbornness. "If you are this confident in a hafling for a burglar then it shall be. However, it does not mean that I have to take a liking to him. My heart is in having my home and treasure back, and nothing else."
"I assure you, should you consider this hobbit I have chosen, and accept the possibilities that await you, you just may find it in ways you did not expect." Thorin being of one for more straightforward answers, as would any dwarf, dismissed the riddling words and the two had departed until it was time to venture for Erebor.
On the evening before their departure to the Shire, Kili had already fell asleep and Fili had a lot on his mind being the heir of a great kingdom so he felt it in his best interest to listen intently to his uncle. Training was grueling but they had the blood of Durin in them and endured it until the end when they were to depart for the Shire.
"Uncle," said Fili before going to bed for the night, "if anything, I don't just want to be a hero in a tale. I want to see to it that our people will triumph. I will protect Kili and serve our company with honor. I just want to make you proud and be there to see the mountain restored to its original grand state again."
Thorin granted a small smile as he was proud that his nephew was adamant about the quest and of how in his rearing he spoke of a deeper meaning toward the cause.
"Aye Fili, that is why we need to move fast. Say good night to your mother and go get some sleep." With that, the prince bid him good night and left for his chambers.
Thorin lay back on his large pillows seeking a quick ease into sleep, the thoughts of the road ahead weighing heavy on his shoulders.
"Mahal, I hope that one day I will meet the bearer of one so rare and pleasant." The rose shone with such a splendid glory as a sun would illuminate the world with light blue before it softened to a deep and clear darker blue as if to bid him a good night's rest. He sat it down on his nightstand and shut his eyes to the soft light cast by Umhudkhi Khajimel.
Khuzdul words (to the best of my ability):
bahel - friend of friends
narel - champion
namad - sister
umhudkhi khajimel - blessed gift
