Nobody seems to remember that life is a game that we play
~Oasis
Fili had woken me up early the next morning with a simple shake of my shoulder. It was still dark, and the light from the rising sun had yet to appear in the horizon. Meaning most of the company was still blissfully asleep, waiting till the very last moment to rise from the comforts of their beds.
But I wasn't stupid, I knew Fili had done this so we weren't caught together. Well caught being a loose term, because we didn't do anything... We sat in a pile of straw and had the first decent conversation I've had with a dwarf since my arrival.
So I played along, following his lead with getting all the ponies ready. I had helped him get saddles on the ones that needed them, and re-secure the packs on the two extra ponies, making sure nothing would fall off in the coming days.
We had worked in silence, for the most part. Neither of us needing to say anything to the other. It was a comfortable silence, not one of those awkward silences, where you could literally feel the tension between the two people. It was nice. He was nice. Whether it was just because he felt sorry for me, or he truly wanted to get to know me I wasn't sure. But I'd take anything I could get at this point.
It would be a long and lonely journey if everyone continued to pretend like I didn't exist. Especially once Gandalf would take his leave. When that time came the only one I'd be allowed to talk with would be Bilbo. Don't get me wrong the hobbit was great company and we had gotten close in the short span of time. But, I knew Bilbo would make it out of this war, I knew he'd come back. The stupid, hardheaded dwarves were the problem, and if they didn't trust me enough to talk with, there's no way in hell they'd trust anything I suggested.
By the time the company came out of the Prancing pony, Fili and I were walking the last pony out from the stalls. The early morning sun had just kissed the sky and it appeared many of them wished for a few more moments of sleep. Especially poor Kili, who's eyes were ringed with dark circles and his normal smile clad face was now a look of indifference.
I had given most of them a small smile in greetings, expecting nothing in return like the previous days. But I was surprised when a few of them nodded their heads, mumbling a quick good morning as they passed by. I had definitely hadn't expected that, and my brows furrowed in thought. Wondering where this sudden mood change would have come from this quickly. Maybe they were planning to off me, and they needed a clear conscience to do so, so they wouldn't feel as bad...
Sadly enough I could see that happening, with Thorin leading the charge and Dwalin following close behind.
"Morning lass." Gloin greeted quickly in passing, his body lumbering towards this pony. His sudden friendly gesture causing my brows to furrow further in question as I watched the red haired dwarf wander off.
Yep... Calin, this is it. They are planning my death as we speak.
"You alright?" Fili's voice sounded out from beside me. Causing my head to tilt towards him, a look of confusion still clearly written on my face.
"He said good morning..." I stated with a slightly concerned expression, until I saw Fili break into a tiny grin.
"Change of heart, I suppose." Turning his back he gave a gentle shrug as he quickly climbed upon Bungo. His weapons clashing together from the movement.
Change of heart? What in gods name was he talking about? No one has a change of heart overnight...
That's when it dawned on me. Last night, when I was over talking with Gandalf and Bilbo, I had felt someone watching me. At first I ignored the sensation, thinking it was one of the bar patrons, cause we all know the Prancing Pony isn't exactly known for its friendly customers. But the feeling only increased ten fold when Bilbo had asked about the new weapon fashioned to my side. I had happily obliged the hobbit, standing to my feet and pulling the sword from its sheath. Twirling the handle around in my hand several times before I gave into my curiosity and peered over my shoulder. I wasn't surprised that someone was watching me, I was however surprised that the entirety of the company, who were sitting down at a table several feet away were all currently staring. Their eyes following my subtle movements with the utmost care, as if they were searching for something.
It was clear they were talking about me, and obviously that conversation had something to do with today's mood shift. What ever had been brought up, I'll probably never know, I just hoped this would last.
"Calin! Minty's awaiting." Kili's voice called out, causing me to shake my head of my swirling thoughts.
I didn't hesitate or argue about riding with him today. He was the first to offer so that's where I went. When I got close enough, Kili extended a large hand down, and I quickly took it using his strength to lift myself back onto the pony. Once I was settled, I wrapped my arms around his waist and waited for the rest of the company.
From the corner of my gaze I saw Fili staring at the two of us. His eyes narrowed slightly as if me riding with his brother confused him. Maybe he had wanted me to ride with him... But I wasn't one to just invite myself into a situation. Fili never asked, so I wasn't going to assume.
"Lass you've got something here." I felt a hand poke into the back of my hair, and a gentle pulling on my scalp. Within a few seconds Bofur pulled up beside us, removing his fingers along with a few pieces of hay that had gotten tangled in my hair from my nights stay in the barn. "Someone lose a fight with a hay bale this morning?" Bofur playfully chided, a grin spread ear to ear.
I let out a laugh, knowing I was probably quite the sight. More disheveled and unkempt then ever before. But my laughter only lasted a few moments before it died, my thoughts trailing to one tiny fact. If I had hay stuck in my hair, Fili would have some as well.
As not to make any sudden movements and have Kili poking his nose into this business, I sneakily looked over my shoulder. My eyes landing on Fili who was sitting patiently while removing a stray piece of straw from his golden mane. And in that instant my heart almost dropped through my chest and onto the ground below. My head spinning back to Bofur to see if he had noticed. Thankfully, he was blissfully unaware of the prince's actions and was busy talking with Dori, who had pulled his pony up along side us as well.
With a heavy sigh, I relaxed back down into my spot behind Kili just as Thorin shouted out for us to get moving, and so we did.
For several days, we rode nonstop, from sun up to sun down. Making camp just before the last light of day disappeared. As we continued, time dragged on and my initial amazement with this world had all but dwindled into nothing. The trees blended together, the mountains blurred into one giant rock in the distance, and I lost track of the days. Kili assured me we had ridden for less than a fortnight but it felt like forever.
I spent much of my time switching between Bofur's and Kili's pony. When one would get tired of me, they'd ship me off to the other. On occasion I found myself humming nonsensical tunes, causing either Bofur or Kili to turn round and ask if it was a song from my land for they had never heard it before. Usually I shook my head, because in truth the song was nothing, just notes strung together to make the time pass. But after several days my humming turned into songs that had randomly popped into my head. For Kili I tended to stick to Oasis songs, while Bofur got the occasional AC/DC. Only shortened snippets, though. I highly doubted middle earth was ready for the full on melody of Hell Bells.
At night before the sun went down, I found myself on the out skirts of the camp practicing with my swords. I was far enough away so the others couldn't see how bad I was still but close enough for them to come if anything decided to attack. I practiced the combinations Dwalin had taught me over and over again, until the motions were beginning to become familiar. So I found myself thinking less when I practiced. A few times Dwalin added a new combination or he stepped in to spar, but I was still less than good with handling it. At least with the sword Fili had gotten me I was able to last longer, my arms not fatiguing as quickly as they did with Dwalin's. Which had the stone faced dwarf grinning on occasion, not that'd he ever admit to that.
"What is it that you're doing?" A familiar voice called out, pulling me from my thoughts.
I was currently running laps in the small clearing by the edge of camp. A thin veil of sweat coated my skin from the exertion and the weight of my weapon hanging at my hip. I knew that this journey would soon change into a foot race against wargs and I didn't want to get held up under the weight. If I tripped or slowed for any reason I would undoubtably end up their next meal, or worse, on the receiving end of Thorins yelling.
"Running." I huffed out as my legs continued to carry me over the rough terrain. My boots hitting the ground with a solid thud, pushing me faster.
"I see that, what are you running from Calin?" Fili asked a smug smile pulling at his lips as I rounded the bend and came to an abrupt stop a few feet before him.
Breathing heavily, I bent over placing my hands against my knees. Trying to control my breaths as I stared up at the blond dwarf through my lashes.
"The inevitable." I mumbled to myself, my eyes dropping to the ground. It was partly true, I was running from what was more than likely to occur. With next to no skill with a sword, I would be fair game for anything. At least if I could run, I had a fighting chance at getting through this journey and saving these dwarves from their fate. Shaking myself from my thoughts I looked up at Fili with a smile. "What did you need?"
"It's supper, I wanted to get you before Bombur ate all of it." He said with a shrug of his shoulders, which only caused me to chuckle softly. It wouldn't have been the first time my portion was eaten accidentally. Thankfully, after the first time it occurred, Fili or Kili would keep a bowl hidden from the company for me.
"I appreciate that." With another smile I rose to my full height and looked down at Fili. Who was staring up at me with a playful expression.
Over the last couple days Fili and Kili had became the closest things I had as friends. At first they kept their jokes and pointed jabs to a minimum, unable to determine if I really appreciated a good laugh as much as they did. But once they realized, and saw how I joked back with them it's like a whole other door between us opened. I was no longer Lady Calin to them (unless they wished to annoy me), I was just Calin. A girl who didn't shy away from their mischievous fun, much to their uncles dismay.
We spent much of our spare time together, the brothers gracing me with stories from their childhood. Many of which involved them causing trouble for Thorin. Especially with their constant attempts to kill their uncle with a rope hidden at floor level, pulled taut to trip him when the two brothers called for him. It amazed me, because the man that they both spoke so fondly of was not the man leading this company currently. Whoever he was back then was long gone, eroded away by the wait and responsibility of supporting his people.
On occasion the two princes would try to pry details from me, whether it would be something small like wondering about the weird cargo pants that I wore. Which Kili insisted I was being like his brother, with all the hidden pockets lining the length of my legs. Or something regarding my life across the seas. My answers were always vague on the big questions though and I tried to keep conversation focused on them at all cost because one slip up in my story and Thorin would have me thrown out for treason. It seems like anything I'd do would make Thorin kick me out... He didn't need much of a reason to get rid of me.
"Calin!" A voice called out abruptly, bringing my thoughts back down to earth. Shaking my head I smiled wide when I saw Ori standing up beside the fire waving his small hand. "I saved you a seat!"
Ori, the shy quiet dwarf that once graced my presence in Bag End was quickly coming out of his shell around me. While riding, I found him dropping back so he could listen to our conversations. At night he'd find a place beside me, his head down as he scribbled away in his journal. I had once asked him what he was writing and with a shy smile he had lifted the leather bound book up showing me the yellowish pages. A small drawing of Kili, Fili and myself dusted the pages in a dark charcoal color. We were seated around the fire, our shoulders brushing against one another's, our faces pulled into a laugh.
The detail the small dwarf captured in that moment was amazing and I didn't hesitate to tell him he was quite talented. That tiny compliment seemed to shock him though, for his eyes widened and lips turned up in a large smile. One that could lift a sour mood from anyone who saw it.
"Someone has an admirer." Fili chuckled, lifting his brow in question as he gestured for me to go to Ori.
With a shrug of my shoulders I answered Fili. "I'll take an admirer, over the soul crushing stares I use to receive." It was true, Ori, like the two brothers was becoming one of my closest friends. But unlike the Durins I felt this protective nature when it came to small Ori. He might have been older than myself but he was still like a little brother. One I could easily see myself protecting from any form of harm that may befall him.
Making my way over to the fire I dropped my sword to the ground beside me with a low thud as the metal sank into the dirt. Unlike where we had stayed previous nights, in large open clearings, tonight we were huddled on the side of a cliff. A large rock face to our backs, shielding us from sight and from the weather. Fili and Kili had made a home beneath the over hang, where a small alcove had been cut out from the harsh winds over the years.
From the corner of my sight I watched as Fili pulled his smoking pipe from his coat pocket before sinking down beside his brother. The light from the fire casting an orangish glow around the both of them. The other members of the company were scattered about similarly. Bombur who probably ate his weight in stew tonight was already passed out, his back to us as he snored loudly. Thorin who I kept my distance from was closer to his nephews, his back against the rock face, his eyes closed. Making him appear to be asleep, but I knew he wasn't. His arms were pulled across his chest in a defensive manner and his sword was still in his lap.
Dwalin who was sitting across from me sharpening his sword, gave me a pointed glance when my body sank to the hard ground. His darkened eyes wandering over my exhausted frame with what appeared to be a happy gleam.
"Practicing again lass?" He asked, not taking his eyes off his current task. Almost hiding the fact that he was more than pleased with my attempts to become a better fighter.
"You said practice, so I'm practicing." I said while running a tired hand through my sweat soaked hair. Trying to keep it tamed as best I could, but it was a losing battle. And I wished that I could have found a spare hair tie in my bag, just to pull my hair up and away from my face. But after the hundredth time rummaging through every pocket of my bag and receiving some very questioning stares, I gave up, knowing no amount of searching would magically make a small elastic band appear.
"Aye, that I did. I had not expected you to heed my words, is all." Tilting his head, he pulled the whetstone across the blade in a loud swipe.
A bowl was gently placed in my lap as I continued to look at Dwalin. Ori must have been given the task of watching my dinner that night and I quickly thanked him with a gentle nod.
"I can barely last five moves with you or Fìli, how am I suppose to protect myself if I don't practice?" Grabbing the spoon resting against the side of the bowl I brought it to my lips. Blowing on the brownish liquid for a moment before plopping it into my mouth with a content sigh. Stew was never a favorite of mine, but I thoroughly enjoyed the bowl that was given to me. Either Bombur had the magic touch when it came to cooking, or I was too starved to care.
"Don't sell yourself short, Calin. You lasted six moves today," I heard someone say. With the spoon still in my mouth I tipped my head in the direction I heard the snide comment. Of course it was Fili, who was propped up against the rock, smoking pipe hanging from his smirking lips.
"Six, brother? She is quite the slayer, isn't she?" Kili jested, letting out a laugh that only caused the dwarves who were listening in to join in.
Narrowing my eyes in their direction, I removed the spoon from my mouth. "Laugh it up you two." Using the wooden utensil I motioned it between the two princes. Making sure they knew I was addressing both their royal butts. "I've never had to do this before." Even though they were only joking, I let out a defeated sigh. My hand dropping down onto my lap as I thought about my words. Wondering why I even agreed to this when I had no experience what so ever. But then again I really didn't know what I was getting into when I offered to help an old man on the side of the road.
Serves me right for helping some random stranger...
As I was spooning up some more of Bombur's delicious concoction, I heard a small voice. "What was it that you did, Calin? I mean, before coming on the journey."
Bilbo who had been particularly quite that night was now looking at me with curiosity behind his eyes. His hands clasped together in front of his body, holding them near to the small roaring fire trying to keep himself warm in the cool night air.
Shoving the spoon into my mouth once again, I tried to buy myself some time to think. Chewing on a piece of meat for longer than necessary. I just didn't think many would understand what I did, or why for that fact. It was clear from my time here that dwarven women were sheltered, that they stayed in the mountain and did things around the home.
Hesitantly swallowing my mouthful of stew I placed my bowl to the ground, feeling the eyes of the company upon me. Well those who were still awake and paying close attention.
"I worked outside." I started, but was quickly interrupted.
"Surely a woman was not allowed to farm!" Oin shouted, his hearing trumpet posed in his ear. had to fight the urge to slap myself in the face because I swear this dwarf would be the death of me. Not only did he do something similar to Bilbo, when he mistook Bilbo's question as him being a burglar. But now Oin was starting a habit of misunderstanding everything I said.
"I can assure you master dwarf, Lady Calin was no farmer." Gandalf chuckled at the dwarves mistake. A puff of pipe smoke escaping his nose as he did so.
"So what was it you did lass? It mustn't be hard to explain?" Balin who had spent most of the night by himself away from the company on the edge of camp finally spoke. He seemed intrigued though. "Even to us hard headed dwarves." He added with small smile, trying to ease me into the conversation a bit more.
Running an absentminded hand through my hair again, I looked over to him and then over to Fili and Kili. Who were both sitting up now, leaning in closer to hear better.
"I...I-um I worked on the outside of others houses. Taking care of their lawns I suppose. I did my fair share of hole digging for posts and such. Nothing glamorous I assure you." I knew if I had said landscaper none of them would have had any idea what that was. And finding the words to explain my 'profession' so to speak was harder then it appeared.
"They made you work hard labor? Did your family not care?" Gloin asked, his brows pulled down in confusion as he leaned against the handle of his axe.
"I wanted money, and that's how I earned it. My parents were just happy I was working." Casting my eyes downward I interlocked my fingers in a nervous manner. My thumbs pressing against each other to keep them from fidgeting. "I know what I did is not lady like by your standards, but it taught me how to work hard so I didn't have to rely on others."
There was a few minutes of silence as the company seemed to mull my words over. These were men, men who were raised to provide for their wives. Wives who stayed home doing chores or busied themselves with minor trades. To them, I was an oddity, a mystery almost. Someone who challenged their traditions in almost every sense.
"From the moment you stepped into my home I could tell you weren't like others, the job seems very fitting of you." Bilbo was the first to break the silence and I raised my head up to meet his gaze. A smile tugging at my lips, knowing the hobbit was trying his best to support me, like I had supported him.
"He's right, I cannot picture Calin holding her tongue if she found work in a tavern." Bofur laughed loudly as he addressed one of my biggest faults. Which would be my big mouth, and my habit of mumbling things if I did not agree.
"She would cause many a scuffle, that's for sure." Nori chuckled, nodding his head in agreement to his comrades statement.
"And she'd win every last one of them as well." Fili enthusiastically added, his voice raising above the companies laughter and commotion. His face locked in a serious expression as if he truly believed I'd win a fight.
Shaking my head at his words, I breathed out a heavy breath and tried to fight off the blush that was creeping it's way across my cheeks. The dwarf had a way of making my face burn that's for sure. His kind playful words were like nothing I had ever heard before. Men tended to shy away from introducing themselves or befriending me back in the real world, mainly because of my stature. I was taller than most girls, being almost six foot. My shoulders were broad from my years of lugging blocks. Both those traits not being very flattering in the least. So I spent much of my time being the third wheel on outings, or being by myself, hidden away from others buried in my books. But here, Fili and Kili both over looked the things that were off putting to so many others. They genuinely liked me for who I was, they didn't care. It was nice to hear their words but I was never really prepared for them. I always found myself blushing intensely.
"She'd scare em' all, you mean!" Dori shouted out, pulling me back into the present. The back of my hand coming up and gently wiping at my cheek hoping the redness would die down so the others didn't see.
"Oh yes, I'd scare every last one of them away." I chuckled softly, trying to focus on a peaceful sensation. This blushing needed to stop. I knew they were all teasing me in good nature, but being the center of discussion was still unsettling. Playing along was my best option. "With my lack of coordination and my awesome ability to skewer myself with my own sword." The statement had the company in a roar of laughter. Clearly they had all enjoyed the day I accidentally stabbed myself with my sword. I had been practicing my stances, my feet lunging at an invisible opponent attacking ahead of me, when I tripped over my own boot lace and lightly sliced my calf on my way to the ground.
At first Dwalin was slightly concerned, well, as concerned as Dwalin could be. Which was just eyeing me up and down curiously from his spot above me. His arms crossed over his chest in annoyance. Fili and Kili had saw me go down in a blaze of glory by my own clumsiness, which only lead to the company knowing almost instantly.
"Lass if you fought half as well as you fight yourself, you'd be an unstoppable force." Bofur snickered, as he lent back. Pulling his oddly shaped hat down over his eyes.
Rolling my eyes and shaking my head I rose from my spot beside Ori. Taking my bowl with me as I walked over to the washing bucket. The other dwarves continued to talk amongst themselves, many still laughing about my clumsiness. I ignored them though, and knelt down into the soft dirt as I placed my bowl into the murky water. Normally I would have found it disgusting that we washed our plates in dirty, food riddled water, but after the first few days you learned fresh water is not only a pain to find but also near impossible to get to in the pitch black. Basically you just learned to deal with it, like many other things.
Using my fingers I gently wiped the inside of the bowl, the pads of my fingers running along the wood grain making sure any food bits were removed. Once I was satisfied with its state, I removed it from the murky depths and flicked the remaining water off before placing it with the tower of other bowls that were precariously leaning against one another in an unstable manner. Like almost everything the dwarves seemed to own.
Standing to my full height I made my way back over to the fire, only stopping to pick up my sword that had been lying on the ground. As I passed by, I quickly said goodnight to Ori who answered me back with a tiny wave and a small smile before disappearing underneath the thin blanket on his bedroll.
Beside Ori, I passed by the rest of the company who were still carrying on. None ready to head off to bed yet. So like most nights lately, I made my way over to the Durins. The two brothers still sitting against the rock face, Fili smoking his pipe and Kili playing with an arrow.
"Ah, she returns. She must not be able to resist my charm, brother." Kili quietly said with a shit eating grin pulling at his lips. His fingers twirling the silvery tip of the arrow over and over again.
"Please, don't fool yourself. I'm just here for the fire." I shot back as I stepped over Fili's outstretched boot moving myself between the two.
Sinking to the hard earth, I relaxed against the rock, laying my sword across my lap. My arms wrapped around my body, rubbing some warmth back into my extremities. In truth it was cool outside, but nothing that would normally bother me. Unfortunately with just Fili's thin tunic as my only shirt, the cool night breeze found it's way through the fabric, chilling my body significantly.
"If you are cold, why did you not say anything?" Fili asked, putting his pipe down. From my spot I saw him rummaging through one of his canvas bag before producing a dark wool blanket.
With in a second, Fili unceremoniously draped the fabric over my shoulders. Instantly shielding me from the gentle wind that was steadily blowing. I dropped my head, tucking it against my chest fighting the new surge of blood flowing directly to my face. I swear, everything that these two did had me in a mental tizzy. And it was literally going to be the death of me. They were being nice, gentlemanly, the way they were brought up to be. Except I kept reacting to them as if there were something more to their actions. Ridiculous as that notion was.
Fili seemed to be waiting patiently for an answer. His fingers hesitating to pick his pipe back up, and his eyes locked on me. So avoiding words all together I gave him a shrug. Signifying I had no good answer for him. Instead I decided to change topics, my trusty go to when I didn't like the path a conversation was going down.
"Do you two have first watch tonight?" I casually asked. Pulling the blanket further around me, the subtle calming scent of wet dirt and campfire filled my nose, something I've grown to associate with the blond dwarf.
"Aye." Kili answered right away, a hint of annoyance in his voice. For this would make the fourth or fifth night that they'd be on watch. "Will you stay awake and entertain us with stories from your home land, Calin?"
Resting my head back I stared at the dark haired dwarf, lifting my brow in pretend thought. Trying to make it seem like I wasn't really interested. But that'd be a lie. If they were on watch, I stayed up on watch as well. Not because I thought I could kick some Orc ass if anything came out of the forest. But because it had become routine sleeping at their side, almost comforting.
However the longer I kept Kili waiting, the more his face fell into a feigned frown. His eyes becoming wide and pleading, knowing I couldn't say no to that.
"I suppose I could." I chuckled softly, breaking my facade to gently shove his arm causing him to laugh. He knew I'd give in, I was a sucker for that look.
After that we fell into a comfortable silence. I could hear the hushed voices from the others, who were a few feet away. The low crackle of the burning wood echoing off the walls behind us. Glowing embers swept up into the night air, the red sparks spiraling about before the wind finally extinguished them moments before they hit the ground once again.
My eyes panned the clearing, seeing Thorin still resting by himself. Whether or not he was asleep now was debatable, but either way he had his hand on his sword still. Bilbo who had stayed at the end of camp after our discussion. I watched Bilbo gather an apple from one of Bombur's bag before sneaking off to be with his pony.
With a small sigh, I shut my eyes slowly. Knowing that first watch would not begin until the fires were extinguished and the others were tucked away in their bedrolls. Which wouldn't be for a while now.
I didn't know how long I had my eyes closed before a shrill scream echoed through the night air. One that had my eyes instantly opening and my body jolting upright. Bilbo who was still by the edge of the cliff was frozen in place before he turned back and all but ran towards us. A worried expression on his small face.
"What was that?" Bilbo asked worriedly, as he kept checking over his shoulder for what caused the horrific noise. But I knew, it was orcs.
"Orcs." Kili stated plainly, his body unmoving and unconcerned about what was going on.
Just as Kili finished another blood curdling scream pierced the night air. This time it was loud enough that it caught the attention of Thorin. Who, like me, jerked awake not entirely sure of what to expect.
I watched the hobbit visibly swallow, before speaking. "Orcs?"
"Throat-cutters. There'll be dozens of them out there. The lowlands are crawling with them." Fili added, causing me to turn and give him a 'are you fucking serious' look. But it appeared the blond dwarf was quite amused by the hobbits reaction and I took it upon myself to hit his arm fairly hard hoping it would get him to stop.
Unfortunately there was two of them and reprimanding one didn't seem to stop the other...
"They strike in the wee small hours, when everyone's asleep. Quick and quiet; no screams, just lots of blood." Kili added, fighting back the smile on his face.
Bilbo who was already petrified by the sound of the orcs, who were probably, (well hopefully) miles away, took a step backwards and looked away from the brothers. Who took that as their queue to start laughing at the poor hobbits expense.
"You think that's funny?" No... "You think a night raid by orcs is a joke?" Thorin who was quiet until this moment, was on his feet. Giving his nephews, what I construed as a 'you know better then this' stare. Just with the tone of his voice and his serious glance he had the two brothers sitting up straight and at attention.
"We didn't mean anything by it." Kili nervously said.
"No, you didn't. You know nothing of the world." Thorin spat, before walking off towards the edge of the cliff. His hands clasped behind his body as he looked out over the valley below.
"Don't mind him, laddie. Thorin has more cause than most to hate orcs. After the dragon took the Lonely Mountain, King Thror tried to reclaim the ancient dwarf kingdom of Moria. But our enemy had got there first." Balin who I just noticed was still off by himself can up along side us. His hand resting against the stone for support.
As if right on queue he began to defend his king, making the sudden outburst at his nephews justified. He started the long tale of the Battle of of Azanulbizar, capturing the attention of the dwarves who had either woken up from the commotion or who were already up.
I on the other hand, who knew what had happened to Thorin that day, the day that changed his life forever, turned my attention to the two princes.
"Did you have to scare Bilbo?" I quietly hissed at Fili. A bit angry about how they were treating him, after all he was a member of this company.
"We were just jesting, we meant no harm." Fili defended, his head tilting and his eyes holding mine as we stared at one another. He truly appeared to be sorry for the joke gone wrong. With a nervous hand, Fili gently rubbed the back of his neck as he added. "We certainly did not mean to scare you as well, Calin."
My mouth opened to interject, but no words came out at his comment.
Scare? Me?
"You didn't scare me." Shaking my head quickly, I tried my best to assure them their stories of orcs didn't freak me out. Though the threat of orcs in the vicinity was unnerving, I had spent much of my childhood watching horror movies, and the Durins little story didn't scare me in the least. I was more concerned about Bilbo and the way he looked like he was about to pack his bag and high tail it back to the shire at the moment. "I'm not afraid of anything." I confidently stated.
Fili gave me a strange look at my words, clearly taken aback by my statement. Kili, who had stayed silent through most of this, had also given me a questioning glance. It appeared they didn't believe me but neither decided to voice their opinion on the matter. Ok maybe I was afraid of a few things, but none of them needed to be discussed. Not now at least... Maybe in the future... But definitely not at this moment.
As Balin continued his story, the dwarves who were once sitting now rose to their feet in admiration of their king. For the trials he had went through to make their life better the best way he could. Even Fili and Kili rose to their feet shortly after, Fili extending his hand down to me, which I graciously took as I, myself, stood up too.
"And I thought to myself then, there is one who I could follow. There is one I could call King." Balin ended quietly. Thorin who was still standing by the edge turned away from the view and back at the company. Who were all staring at their king.
There was still a scowl etched across his stoic face as he pushed his way through them and made his away back over to the fire.
"But the pale orc? What happened to him?" Bilbo who had a love of stories asked. Not exactly pleased with the vague ending of Balin's tale.
"He slunk back into the hole whence he came. That filth died of his wounds long ago." Thorin growled an answer from over his shoulder. Overly confident that the pale Orc was now a pile of bones, buried deep within a mountain by now.
"I wouldn't be so sure..." I mumbled quietly, knowing for a fact Azog did not die from his wounds, and that he was still alive and kicking at the moment. But Thorin didn't know that, and it was this assumption that he had latched on to that would lead them into trouble later on.
As soon as the words left my mouth, Thorin was spinning on his boot heels, glaring at me. "What did you say?" Narrowing his eyes, he stared me down, knowing I had inadvertently opened my big mouth within hearing range once again.
Knowing it was no use to hide what I said, I decided to dig my grave further. I at least needed to put the doubt into Thorin's mind that Azog was in fact still alive. If I didn't, things would surely play out just as they did in the book. Him being utterly taken aback by his appearance after leaving Goblintown and charging to go kill the Orc due to some age old grudge match. I understood Azog killed his grandfather, but an unplanned battle on the edge of a cliff, without having a clear mind is a recipe for disaster. Now that I thought about it, that could be why Thorin got his ass kicked by the Orc there.
"I said, I wouldn't be so sure." I spoke a little louder, my voice definitely more confident then I felt. Given the fact that Thorin was staring at me with hatred in his eyes and his nephews who were once beside me, now were slowly backing out of sight.
"And why is that, human? You were not even born when this battle occurred." With three fluid steps Thorin had inched his way closer to me. Allowing, his intimidating presence come across more then clear.
It was frightening. To go back to the my conversation with Fili, I suppose Thorin angry would be one thing I'm afraid of. Especially now. He was already fuming over his nephews joke, and to have just relived the day that ruined his life surely had his temper off the charts before I even spoke up. Which is why I was currently at the receiving end of a particularly frightening dwarf. But I couldn't let that show. It's like with animals, once you've shown them your you're frightened, they use that against you. I didn't have the luxury of showing weakness, not here. For one I was a woman and two, I was already someone who Thorin despised with a mighty passion. But I knew, no matter how intimidating this dwarf was I had to hold my ground. If I didn't things would go horribly wrong...
Taking a deep breath, I straightened my back trying to use my height to my advantage. My hands crossed over my chest in some form of defense, as I glared just as harshly down at Thorin.
"I doesn't take a genius to put this together, Thorin. You cut his arm off, that's it. Unless you watched the life drain from his eyes I wouldn't get confident with him being dead." Leaning down I met his eyes in a dead lock, my lip turned up in a snarl.
However, my sudden proximity to the king did nothing. It was as if he was try to call my bluff, but in this case my confidence in yelling at him was no big facade. If I wasn't upfront and confrontational, I knew Thorin would have me in the back of the company ignoring me the whole way to Erebor.
"You know nothing!" He shouted, as he stormed the rest of the way toward me. I didn't think Thorin would cause me harm, but I couldn't be too sure. Their traditions protected dwarfish women, not me. So I braced myself for an impact, my body going stiff and ridged trying to hold my ground. And just before Thorin got boot to boot with me a large hand shot out. Blocking both Thorin and I from getting at one another.
The sudden blockade only seemed to irritate the king further as he let out a harsh grunt of annoyance and spun his head to see who intervened. Even I was shocked to see the blond haired prince standing in between us, his hand still keeping his uncle at bay. But he was not looking at me, he was having a silent conversation with Thorin. Calmly staring him down.
"You dare get in the way of your king?" Thorin asked, disdain dripping from his words.
Things were silent for a second, Fili turning to look at me. His blue eyes peering up at me with an intensity that would shake most. It was almost as if he was assuring himself I was worth getting involved in this situation for.
"No, master dwarf, he was preventing you from performing a grave injustice to the girl." Gandalf finally stepped in, pushing his way towards the front. "You may be king Thorin Oakenshield, but this girl is here to help. Even if she went about it in the wrong manner." With a sideways glance Gandalf gave me a pointed stare. One that held his dissolving patients towards my temper, before focusing on Thorin again. "If she did not think it was wise to speak up, surely she would have remained unheard like she has been."
"I know you don't trust me Thorin..." I started as my body pulled away from him. My feet carrying me backwards towards the small alcove. I sighed as my body pulled away from him. My feet carrying me backwards towards the small alcove. "You might never... But please think about what I said. Azog may be dead, or he may not. Wouldn't it be better to be prepared for that?" I finished, making my words lite so as not to enrage Thorin once again.
After that I turned on my heel and stalked off, slinking back into the alcove that was darkened by the dying embers in the fire. I sank to floor, pulling my sword to my side and stared at the ground. Rolling a small rounded twig underneath my boot for some entertainment. From the corners of my eyes I could see the rest of the company disbursing, many finding their bedrolls once again. Dwalin had wandered after Thorin who had made his way back to the cliff side.
Bilbo nervously watched me for a few moments. Given the fact this whole situation was brought about by his nerves towards the shrill wail of orcs in the night, he was unsure if he should make his way over or if I was better left alone. But in truth Bilbo didn't start this, fate started this and I needed to intervene. If that meant suffering the consequences, then so be it.
"Must you poke at uncle so, Calin?" Kili sighed as he sank down beside me, pulling my straying thoughts back to the present.
Fili sank down on my other side, a worried hand coming up and gently rubbing at his eyes. It was these moments that I wished I could spew all my knowledge out and tell them why I argued with him so. That the way their uncle was leading them, they would not survive to make it back to their mother. But this was my burden to carry, my burden to lumber about as if I was blind and walking a narrow ledge. That any misstep would have me toppling off it. Cause in truth, that's what it was. I was walking a fragile line, one mistake on my part and my whole purpose for being here would be gone.
And I know that it's terribly early in this journey to already start having doubts or feeling this weight, but I did. Saving three lives is a huge responsibility, and I cared that it happened. Even in this short span of time I'd grown fond of the dwarves I had loved so much when I read The Hobbit. I was growing attached to their living counterparts.
With a heavy sigh I gave Kili a defeated look, saying "You wouldn't understand..." before grabbing the dark woolen blanket that was laying on the ground.
We sat in silence after that, none of us speaking. Just sitting there our eyes open looking for things lurking in the shadows. Things that would potentially kill the sleeping members of the company. Kili found use of his time by preparing some spare arrows in between searching the tree line while Fili sharpened the edge of one of his many swords.
It was at the end of our watch, when Oin and Gloin had risen in the darkness to switch positions with us, did Fili speak. "What ever it is, you do not have to go through it alone, Calin. I promise you that." He all but whispered to me as we both rose to our feet. My brows furrowed in slight confusion until I realized he was talking about them not understanding why I did the things I did.
My eyes found his in the darkness and I could see that he truly meant his words. His blue eyes pleading me to believe him.
With a gentle shrug of my shoulders I answered him. "There's nothing Fili, just doubts, that's it." Trying my best to be vague to keep him from asking to many questions I couldn't answer.
"If it were nothing, why would the wizard have brought you?" He asked as I lowered myself to the ground next to the Durins' bedrolls.
"Maybe he hoped that if this company was attacked by orcs they'd waste their time killing me while you got away. " My answer was cold I knew that, but he was dangerously close to something he was never meant to know. I had to do something now to throw him off this train of though before he managed to guess something was up.
Laying my head against the cold hard ground I closed my eyes. My body wanting to just sleep and drain itself from all these ramped emotions I felt. Feeling Fili lower himself behind me, I kept still. His body moving about as he struggled to get comfortable on the lumpy rock infested ground.
It didn't take long before the days troubles came crashing down and sleep overcame me. But just before I slipped away, I thought I heard Fili speak. It was soft and hardly audible to my ears. So it wouldn't have surprised me that my mind conjured the words.
"I would never let that happen."
Sorry for the massive delay, I started my new job and my hours are nuts at the moment. Plus I also had a death in the family which kinda put a hold on the chapter for a week! I'm very sorry to keep you waiting with this, but I hope everything will return to normal now! I already have the next chapter started for you guys! Trolls are ahead, just a fair warning.
So as always don't hesitate to tell me what you think! And what your imaginations have for this story! And maybe thoughts about what the next chapter will bring? Are the dwarves being kinder now that they've spent time with her?
Plus if you comment you'll get mentioned in the next chapter like these amazing people!
Kelwtim2spar: No problem!
Ro781727: I don't know, we'll have to wait and see ;)
Dalonega Noguisi: I hoped they opened up a tad bit more for you in this chapter! And for the name thing, it's just because Fili hasn't encountered many human females before and a dwarvish name would be weird for her to have, to him.
Hermy Jane Weasley: Thank you! I hope this delivered up to your expectations, and thank you the new job is kicking my butt!
Bloodyrose1294: I have some plans for her heritage later on, so I hope it toes all together for you then! And I'm glad you liked 3rd person Fili! We will see more from him and his uncle very soon actually!
Sleepipanda: I think their more Leary of her then anything given the nature of this quest. They just need time to see that she's just another one of the guys and cares just as passionately about them reaching the mountain!
Fleursuoh: Thank You! I'm glad you enjoyed!
VG fan1: Hope you're some romance or I'm not doing my job right hahaha and I'm glad you enjoyed it, hope this chapter didn't disappoint!
Lady silverfrost: Thank you very much!
hodhod2011danger: hope this update didn't disappoint you!
Guesty: thanks for your kind words! I hope to hear from you again!
