Disclaimer: I don't own Agent Carter which belongs to Marvel and Disney nor the Hobbit and anything related to that universe which belongs to Warner Brothers/New Line as well as the Tolkien estate. This story is strictly being done for pure fun and in no way is an attempt to profit of the properties involved
Author's Note: Hey everyone. So here's the next chapter. To all those who have reviewed so far then thank you. If there's anything I'm doing wrong or you think could be improved upon please let me know. Anyway if you're still reading or are reading for the first time then I hope you enjoy.
Bard feeling angered and betrayed rode back to the gates of Dale, where Thranduil was waiting for him. "He will give us nothing."
Thranduil was unsurprised and unphased in his response "Such a pity. Still, you tried."
"I do not understand - Why? Why would he risk war?" Bard said still confused over this betrayal of trust.
Both of them looked back toward the Mountain in time to see the dwarves dislodging the head of one of the massive stone statues, causing it to fall and break the raised bridge to the gate, thus disabling any attackers from approaching the gates.
"It is fruitless to reason with them; they understand only one thing." Thranduil said as he pulled out his sword and gazed at it. "We attack at dawn! Are you with us?"
Before Bard or Thranduil could say anything more however Bard noticed someone coming towards them. They then noticed it was Peggy.
"Agent Carter!" Bard exclaimed grateful she was alive.
"So you survived. And here I thought you would have fled with a new set of jewellery from the dragon's treasure. As all young human women do when they see expensive gifts." Thranduil said dismissing Peggy.
Naturally still pissed off and not thinking Peggy went up to Thranduil and decked him in the face as he stumbled back and felt his nose as he felt it bleeding a feat that never happened to him before.
"I already had to deal with one arrogant king who believes in only himself even though he's just going to get everyone killed I don't plan to deal with another. So whatever you have to say I advise you to keep them to yourself." Peggy said as she gave him a stern look
Thranduil tried not to show any sense he was intimidated because he wasn't. Most of what he saw in Peggy reminded him of Tauriel. Headstrong, tough, a willing heart and a need to fight and do what she believed was the right thing even if it wasn't his order. He wondered if she shared her strong sense of belief in others "And do you still believe in Oakenshield? That his honour is stronger than his selfish need?"
Peggy sighed as she responded "I don't know. If the part of him that promised wealth for all is still in there. Somewhere. It could return when the pin drops."
"And if it does not?" Thranduil asked
"Then I will have no hesitation in putting Thorin down." Peggy responded
"Because your heart tells you? Or is it because it is your duty?" Thranduil asked again
"Both." Peggy responded as she turned away from Thranduil "And it's not limited to just Thorin. If I were you I'd make sure where your priorities lie. Your people. Or your obsession with jewellery."
Thranduil didn't respond as he turned away from Peggy and Bard and rode back toward the city. Bard looked over his shoulder at Erebor feeling conflicted as he felt Peggy put an understanding hand on his shoulder. He then offered to help her onto the horse but she declined the offer as she got on herself. As they rode back Peggy decided to enquire what had happened since she had split off from Jarvis and Sousa.
"So I hear Mr. Jarvis and Daniel helped you defeat Smaug?" Peggy asked
"Aye they did." Bard responded proudly "Your husband and friend are among the bravest and honourable people I've known. As are you Agent Carter."
"Peggy." Peggy said simply "And Daniel is not my husband."
"Right. I keep forgetting. He worried for you. As did Mr. Jarvis." Bard said
"Well they should know me better now not to worry like that. I don't want to be a burden or a bother to them. All that matters is the safety of your people and others spread across Middle Earth." Peggy said as she looked back toward Erebor.
"Everyone needs help sometimes Peggy. Even those who feel they can handle everything." Bard added
"I know." Peggy responded "It's just I seem to have had a habit of losing people close to me. And it's something I've had to struggle and deal with. I don't get time to grieve before moving onto fulfill my duty. You have no idea what it's like seeing so many innocents die and having to put on a brave face even if on the inside you're crying. That if you appear weak you are seen as vulnerable and people could take advantage of that. But I have moved past that now."
Bard had heard from Jarvis about the argument that he and Peggy had in the desert when Jarvis had foolishly tried to kill Whitney Frost by shooting her after she made an attempt on Ana's life which ultimately casued her incapable of having children. Jarvis regretted what he said and even though Peggy forgave him he never forgave himself. But Peggy responded that he was right. That everyone around her dies and yet she had to deal with that and no matter what she put on the brave face but there was only so long you could keep your emotions in before you let them out in a burst of rage and you wouldn't be able to deal with them. It was a feeling he felt when his wife had passed and he had to put on a brave face for his children. "I understand."
Peggy looked at him wondering what he was talking about as he began to explain "It was winter's eve. Food was scarce. Tilda was very young. My wife decided to travel beyond and see if she can hunt food in the wilderness to bring back to our family and the town. When she did not return I feared the worst so I set out to find her. Finally I had found her alone and barely surviving. She had been captured by a band of thieves and suffering from the cold. She was going to die."
Peggy began to feel sympathetic for Bard as he told the story of his wife who he kept details about scarce until now.
"I returned her home but she did not survive the winter. I did not know how I could move on. But she told me our love survives in our children. That whatever I did next I would do it for them. Not for her." Bard said as he looked back to Peggy "They worried for me endlessly. It was only when I found Tilda outside in the cold after hours that I was able to be open with them. They have been my light in the dark ever since. It's okay to let them in Peggy. Allow them their decision. Allow them the dignity of their choice. Is that not what you said to Steve Rogers when he lost his friend?"
He was right. She had said this to Steve when he lose Barnes. "Yes I did. And I will keep that in mind."
Bard and Peggy remained silent as they allowed themselves to reflect about their emotions and what was happening. Bard decided to lighten things up by mentioning the well being of her friends "Your friends will be filled with joy to see you alive. Mr. Jarvis in particular will feel immensely relieved."
"If it's between the two of us. I'm relieved he is okay too." Peggy said
"Your inventor friend has become quite popular amongst the town. His inventions have wowed us all. The weapons he has brought as much as I do not wish to go to war provide assistance. And he has become quite popular with the ladies. Much to the displeasure of the men." Bard said referring to Howard.
Peggy raised her eyebrow though in surprise as she knew who he was referring too "Tell me did he find any alcohol?"
"He took all the wine that lord Thranduil had brought before he even began dispensing the supplies amongst everyone." Bard answered
Peggy sighed "Bloody hell Howard."
In Dale, Bard and Peggy returned as Jarvis and Sousa walked out to greet them. Bard taking his leave decided to check on the town's people and his children.
Jarvis felt relieved as he went to hug Peggy "Miss Carter! Oh thank heavens you are..."
Peggy put his hands to his sides stopping him from hugging her.
"Oh no hugging." Jarvis said remembering.
Much to Jarvis's surprise however Peggy hugged him instead feeling grateful that the man who while they differed from time to time and they bickered but ultimately she was proud to call a friend survived. She then moved away from him as she returned to her usual stern no nonsense self "This is a one time thing. Never again."
"Of course" Jarvis said understanding.
Peggy then went to Sousa her nerves overtaking her for a moment as both didn't know how to respond or what to say.
Finally Sousa spoke "Peggy. I lo..."
Peggy didn't allow him to finish however as she planted a kiss on his lips that was just as passionate as the one they shared in his office after they had defeated Frost. Finally she moved away as she gave a smile and looked into his eyes "I know."
Suddenly the voice of Howard Stark made it's presence known as Peggy looked towards him "You know Peg for a girl who isn't much into the whole romance thing you're quite passionate when you want to be about it."
Peggy gave a neutral smile "Hello Howard. So you made it here then?"
"Well it took a couple of pots of coffee and help from Wilkes and Samberly but yeah I did eventually. You're welcome by the way." Howard said "And while they had to remain behind to make sure it doesn't break down again that doesn't mean I didn't bring backup."
Peggy looked over as she noticed the remaining members of the Howling Commandos, Bard and the Lakepeople collecting and distributing the various weapons and armor stored there.
"You brought in Dugan and the Commandos?" Peggy asked surprised as Howard nodded as if to say "Yes"
"Dugan and a few of the others had to split off though. Rescue a guy in a pointy hat." Howard answered
Peggy's eyes widened knowing who he was referring too "Gandalf? Save him from what?"
Howard didn't answer as he went away to tend to his inventions making sure they were in place.
Peggy sighed as she looked back again at the townspeople preparing for war "Some of these people are archers. But most of them are untrained workers and just regular people."
"A majority are also sick preventing them from fighting" Jarvis added
"These people are going to their deaths." Sousa said feeling saddened
"And for what really? A conflict that didn't need to happen. How many will have to die to satisfy the goal of two kings who are as stubborn as one another?" Peggy asked referring to Thorin and Thranduil.
Sousa and Jarvis both agreed with her but knew that if the townspeople were going to survive they were going to need all the help they could get.
"I don't wish to see these people die either. But we can't stop Thranduil and Thorin from going to war. The best thing we can do now is give them a fighting chance." Sousa said
Peggy much to her reluctance agreed with Sousa. The only solice that could come from this is if they could end this war without suffering too many losses. As she headed off to the armoury Peggy gave ne final look to her friends "I suppose we should get started then."
Meanwhile in Erebor, the dwarves were also suiting up for battle. Bilbo still feeling saddened by what happened earlier walked by as Thorin suddenly called out to him, holding something.
"Master Baggins, come here!" Thorin ordered
Bilbo hesitantly came up and noticed that Thorin was holding a tunic of white mail.
"You are going to need this. Put it on." Thorin ordered
Bilbo began removing his jacket not wanting to potentially anger Thorin any further even if he was surprisingly feeling calm given what happened earlier with Peggy.
"This vest is made of silver steel - "Mithril" it was called by my forebears." Thorin said as held it up so that Bilbo could slide into it. "No blade can pierce it."
Bilbo finished putting it on, as he then looked at himself; the other dwarves watching too. Bilbo didn't appreciate it though. "I look absurd. I'm not a warrior; I'm a Hobbit."
"It is a gift. A token of our friendship. True friends are hard to come by." Thorin said as his tune changed
Although he had started off smiling at Bilbo, he then looked toward the other dwarves and frowned. He then grabbed Bilbo by the shoulder and pulled him away where the other dwarves couldn't hear him. "I have been blind. Now I begin to see. I am betrayed!"
"Betrayed?" Bilbo asked confused but trying to feign ignorance.
"The Arkenstone." Thorin answered
As Thorin moved closer to him, Bilbo began to feel extremely uncomfortable and worried. Had he caught onto him?
Thorin whispered to Bilbo "One of them has taken it."
Bilbo almost sighed audibly in relief even if he felt bad for the other Dwarves that they were taking the fall for his 'treachery'
"One of them is false." Thorin said feeling bitter.
"Thorin...the quest is fulfilled. You've won the mountain. Is that not enough?" Bilbo asked trying to appeal to him.
"Betrayed by my own kin. Betrayed by that woman." Thorin said not listening to Bilbo's pleas.
"No eh...You...You made a promise...to the people of Laketown. Is-Is this treasure truly worth more than your honor? Our honor, Thorin. I was also there, I gave my word. Peggy also gave her word as did Jarvis and Sousa. You promised to help them return home. They helped you regain theirs and you repayed Peggy by throwing her out?" Bilbo said trying to remind Thorin of what he had promised.
"For that I'm grateful. It was nobly done. But the treasure in this mountain does not belong to the people of Laketown! And as for Peggy Carter and her friends? She thinks she knows better than I do. Let her figure out a way back to her home. She does not need me nor us. Nor any of her friends. She never did. She never wanted them with her in the first place. She wanted to protect them by keeping them away from her. And so she was right." Thorin said as he began to speak more angrily.
Bilbo didn't know what to say. All he knew was that he was becoming more uncomfortable.
"This gold...is ours...and ours alone. By my life I will not part with a single coin! Not...one...piece of it!" Thorin yelled as his voice suddenly began to grow deeper and more and more like Smaug's, until his final word, which was exactly a repeat of what Smaug had said previously to Bilbo. Thorin suddenly and clearly began to feel mentally affected by this.
Bilbo stared at him in shock as the other dwarves, dressed for battle, strided by noticing this feeling worried.
Legolas and Tauriel meanwhile had arrived at their destination. They left their horses and scrambled up a rocky outcrop, crouching behind some rocks at the top as they noticed a fortress ahead.
"Gundabad. What lies beyond?" Tauriel asked
"An old enemy - The ancient kingdom of Angmar. This fortress was once its stronghold. It is where they kept their great armories, forged their weapons of war." Legolas answered.
A light suddenly flickered in a window of the fortress, as it then disappeared.
"A light! I saw movement." Tauriel exclaimed feeling confused and worried about what it meant.
"We wait for the cover of night. It is a fell place, Tauriel. In another age our people waged war on those lands." Legolas cautioned
Legolas paused suddenly, looking pained as he remembered why this place remained in his memory much to his reluctance. Tauriel looked at him noticing this. Legolas had been her friend for years and she knew him well enough that he usually kept emotions such as these reserved and internal.
"My mother died there. My father does not speak of it. There is no grave, no memory, nothing." Legolas said revealing a part of his history that Tauriel did not know.
"Legolas I..." Tauriel began
Before anymore was said however Legolas noticed a lone figure in the windows. This was in fact the Red Skull clad in his suit of armour preparing himself for war.
"It is him. The creator of the new breed of Orc. He created the powerful weaponry they were holding when they invaded the homes of the citizens of Lake Town that you spoke of." Legolas revealed
"How can you be sure?" Tauriel asked wanting to be sure
"I recognise the symbol in his helmet. A human skull clad in the colour red. The Orcs also have a red symbol of a serpent." Legolas said "This is the one that Agent Carter was told to fear."
In Dale, the people were continuing to prepare for war, sharpening swords and collecting supplies. Jim Morita was teaching a townsperson how to fire a bottle using beer bottles as a shooting example as they successfully fired it off.
"Good job." Morita complimented as he turned to the other people he was teaching "The rest of you follow this example."
They suddenly jumped out of the way as Gandalf galloped nto town on his horse. "Let me through! Make way!"
Gandfalf knocked the bottles over causing them to smash. Morita sighed as he turned to the people "Okay take five. I'll figure out what to do next."
Suddenly Dugan dismounted on a horse with his group following behind him as he went to help pick up the broken glass "This was empty before he knocked it over right?"
"Of course." Morita answered "You think I'd use full bottles for shooting practice?"
"Right what the hell am I thinking?" Dugan asked as he and his men dispersed amongst the crowd of people "Where is Peg?"
"She's with Stark and the others helping some of the town's folk prepare for battle." Falsworth answered
"Right then." Dugan got onto his horse again as he headed off "Hi-yo silver away!"
Gandalf dismounted in the main courtyard and looked surprised to see men drilling with swords and companies of elves marching by. He also noticed people handling guns as well.
Alfrid suddenly came up to him, upset. He had been reduced to nothing following the disposal of the Master and his attempts at usurping power were now dashed and what was worse was the fact he was forced to work for Bard and also the presence of Peggy and her friends didn't help things. Alfrid never would have admitted it outright but he feared Peggy immensely. Naturally he wanted some sense of victory and he could do so by getting rid of the wizard. "No, No, No! Oi! You - pointy hat!"
Gandalf turned to look at him not really listening to him. He needed answers and fast.
"Yes, you. We don't want no tramps, beggars nor vagabonds around here. We got enough trouble without the likes of you. Off you go! On your horse." Alfrid said dismissing Gandalf trying to shoo him away.
"Who's in charge here?!" Gandalf demanded
Bard suddenly walked up hearing the commotion. "Who is asking?"
Dugan suddenly rode up behind Gandalf as he turned back to him.
"Where are your other men Mr. Dugan?" Gandalf asked
"The other boys are helping out the crowd." Dugan answered as he then looked to Alfrid "You know for a guy who mocked a hat. Yours doesn't look any better." Dugan then gestured to his own bowler hat "You should get one of these. They are cheap and still in style."
Alfrid glared at them both as Bard signalled them to come inside.
A little bit later, Gandalf was meeting with Bard and Thranduil in a tent. Dugan was behind Gandalf readying his gun in case of conflict and chomping on a cigar.
"You must set aside your petty grievances with the dwarves. War is coming! The cesspits of Dol Guldur have been emptied. You're all in mortal danger!" Gandalf exclaimed.
"What are you talking about?" Bard asked confused
"I can see you know nothing of wizards. They are like winter thunder on a wild wind rolling in from a distance, breaking hard in alarm. But sometimes a storm is just a storm." Thranduil explained while showing his scepticism.
"Not this time. Armies of orcs are on the move. And these are fighters! They have been bred for war. Our enemy has summoned his full strength." Gandalf said referring to the forces of Sauron but also Red Skull "But another seeks control. And this enemy is more powerful then you realise. He is an enemy we were not prepared for. He is an enemy of Agent Carter's."
"Why show his hand now?" Thranduil asked still feeling sceptical "And this other enemy. How long has he been here?"
"Because we forced him! We forced him when the company of Thorin Oakenshield set out to reclaim their homeland. The dwarves were never meant to reach Erebor; Azog the Defiler was sent to kill them. His master seeks control of the mountain. Not just for the treasure within, but for where it lies, its strategic position." Gandalf answered "Sauron has fled to Mordor. But his forces will carry out that mission in the name of their master. The Red Skull does not serve the Dark Lord. He seeks control for himself and he has been here for longer then we realised. Hiding under our very nose. It was only through the arrival of Agent Carter and her friends did we force his hand as well."
As Gandalf continued, they left the tent and walked outside to a spot from where they could clearly see the gates of Erebor. "This is the gateway to reclaiming the lands of Angmar in the north. If that fell kingdom should rise again, Rivendell, Lothlorien, the Shire, even Gondor itself will fall!"
"And what of this Red Skull?" Bard asked "Does he have any goal in mind you know of that will give us an advantage of knowing his plans?"
Gandalf remembered what the Skull told him in Dol Guldor as his memories returned to him "The Red Skull said he seeked to bring the power of the gods to us. I do not know what he speaks of. But I fear the worst."
"These orc armies you speak of, Mithrandir - Where are they?" Thranduil asked still feeling unsure as his thoughts turned to the third party "Who exactly is this Red Skull? Where did he come from?"
Gandalf was unable to answer his questions. Before anymore could be said however they noticed Peggy standing there with Jarvis and Sousa having heard everything. Naturally she was angered and upset. The Red Skull was alive. And he was about to cause havoc once more. This time however she wouldn't let him escape.
"Grab a cup of tea your highness. I'll be glad to tell you." Peggy said sarcastically as they went back inside.
Meanwhile, an Orc was riding out of a tunnel on a Warg as it approached Azog, who was feeding his Warg at the entrance to the tunnel.
"Our army will be in position by dawn. The attack will be sudden and swift!" The Orc proclaimed
"The fools! They have forgotten what lives beneath these lands." Azog said feeling triumphant "They have forgotten the great Earth-eaters."
The two rode away from a hill covered in giant holes, each the entrance to a tunnel. A sound of the earth being drilled and crushed could be heard all around. The tunnels were pointing toward the Lonely Mountain in the distance.
Back at Gundabad, it was now dark. Red Skull was making the final preparations for his plans having used Sauron's resources in machinery and alchemy to construct a portal machine. He was using the Stone he had acquired to power it. Much like the Tesseract machine when powered by a Stone it could open up a portal to Asgard. It was different to the Tesseract however in that it was a Stone special to one specific area of Asgard. If all stones were acquired the user of them depending if the Stone allowed them to use their power could allow them pretty much to do anything and be invincible. While the Skull did not have all the stones he needed only one to complete his goal of bringing the power of the gods to Middle Earth and finish what he started during the Second World War.
An Orc made the final touches to the machine making sure it was in working order. "It is ready Lord Skull."
"Open the gate then." The Red Skull ordered.
From outside both Tauriel and Legolas were still in their hiding spot not being noticed. They could vaguely see what was happening but knew whatever lied beyond those gates was something more powerful then they could comprehend.
"If we are going in - we should move now." Tauriel with determination.
Suddenly, massive bats began screeching and flying around. They were headed back to the fortress.
"Dúilith secherig." ("They are swarming.") Tauriel spoke in surprise.
"These bats are bred for one purpose." Legolas said
"For what?" Tauriel asked confused
Legolas wasted no time in being blunt. Creations such as these could only be used for thing only "For war."
As the bats swarmed overhead, back in the tower the portal successfully opened. The Red Skull smiled with satisfaction at what was being brought in. Suddenly the area was being filled with powerful beasts and creatures that while they looked similar to beasts found in Middle Earth still shocked the Orcs in their size and power.. But the Skull knew what they were as he began to explain to Bolg who was there amongst other Orcs who were loyal to Red Skull and wearing Hydra's mark what they were observing.
"Ancient Norse mythology told of a realm of supernaturally powerful beings. That all myths have some basis in truth. The Tesseract was once such a gateway to that realm. The Norse called it Bifrost. The Rainbow bridge." The Red Skull spoke revealing what he had seen in his journey through the cosmos "In my journey through the cosmos I saw all these realms opened to me. Connected in the tree of life known as Yggdrasil."
The creatures naturally tried to attack as the Skull suddenly subdued them with the magic of the Stone which he began to explain the origins of. "This Stone is called a Norn Stone. The Norns created the stones each connected to the tree and one for each realm. If a chain reaction were to occur then one would be spread across the realms. If one holds one Norn Stone than they are powerful but if one were to acquire them all they would be unstoppable. But I need only one to unleash this force upon the Dwarves of Erebor."
Bolg though he was on board still wanted to know more about these forces "We have a force that is unstoppable already. We have the Super Soldier serum. Why do we need these creatures?"
The Red Skull didn't feel angered by Bolg's questioning. In some respects he was right to question this plan but knew the answer he had would satisfy him. "In war there is always a needed element of surprise. One the enemy will not forsee no matter what they plan. The serum is also depleting and I have no time to make more. And as for this force" The Red Skull said as he observed his new found experiments "Picture an army of mythological beasts unleashed upon the battlefield. The Dwarves nor the Elves and Men won't even comprehend the forces that are destroying them."
The creatures who consisted of Trolls bigger than that of Middle Earth Trolls, a Fenris Wolf, a group of Faeries and a minotaur stepped back as the Skull turned to an Orc "Activate the portal again. And this time lock onto a specific being in particular."
The Orc followed the order as it activated the portal. The light shined brightly through the fortress and across all of Gundabad. Tauriel was naturally shaken by what she was seeing worried about what would be brought while Legolas kept a neutral expression though on the inside he was more worried than he ever was in his entire life.
"Sir we have locked onto a creature" the Orc said
"Increase power. Bring it through!" The Red Skul ordered
The Orc complied as it pushed the lever on the machine to maximum power. A glow spread once again throughout the fortress until finally a giant figure appeared. The creature was blue in colour and taller than any Orc or even the Trolls.
The Orcs stepped back in shock even Bolg felt nervous but didn't want to appear weak. Finally the giant spoke.
"Who dares summon Laufey. King of the Frost Giants?" Laufey asked
"I have summoned you here your majesty for a purpose. The one thing you Frost Giants love the thrill of according to the legend. War." The Red Skull answered not feeling intimidated
"And who are you to suggest I should follow your orders?" Laufey asked
"I am Johann Schmidt. But you may refer to me as the Red Skull. And I possess the power of a Norn Stone. It was how I brought you here. The Norn Stone of Jotunheim."
"Ah yes. Karnilla was never good at protecting those." Laufey said as he continued to converse with the Skull "If I were to help you. What would I gain in return?"
"A new world to rule. One free away from Asgard. You can kill many Dwarves, Elves and Men. Wipe out all who could be your enemies. And one day perhaps return to Asgard and begin your war anew." The Red Skull answered even though he knew he would never allow the Giant to rule over Middle Earth. That goal was his alone. He would gather a force so great and the day Hydra returns in the future. He would return as well.
Laufey considered the deal for a few moments before ultimately agreeing "You have the support of the Frost Giants in this war Red Skull."
"Excellent." The Red Skull said with satisfaction "Bring the King's men through"
The machine was activated again as more Frost Giants came through the portal. The Red Skull then signalled Bolg to come to him "What do you ask Lord Skull?"
"You wish to make the Dwarves suffer? To make Oakenshield bleed?" The Red Skull asked as Bolg nodded as if to say 'Yes' The Skull then pulled out an injection "Then allow me to grant you that wish. The last of the recreated serum. I give to you."
The Skull injected the serum into Bolg who began to grow freakishly big and stronger but more out of control. He then smiled with satisfaction his eyes glowing a devilish colour of green. No Dwarf would be spared now. Bolg bowed before the Skull one final time before leaving to prepare himself for battle.
The Skull walked to the window of the Fortress as he looked out on the horizon "The board is set. And the pieces are moving. Soon. I shall put the Free Peoples in check."
Time passed on the outside as Legolas and Tauriel observed what was emerging from the gate. Eventually a figure rode out on a Warg. It was Bolg, now fully dressed for battle his armour still fitting despite his increase in strength. He raised his mace and shouted out a command; trumpets sounded, the gates in the bottom of the fortress opening, and releasing rank upon rank of massive orcs, each with a giant spear at least three times longer than the orcs' height. Other orcs carried the Skull's energy based weapons. The Trolls, wolves, Faeries and minotaur from Asgard as well as the Trolls from the army marched together the Asgardian creatures being submissive to the Skulls demand via command collars that were consctructed. Laufey and the Frost Giants were marching behind as Tauriel widened her eyes upon seeing these new creatures she was unfamiliar with.
"And what are they bred for?" Tauriel asked
Legolas didn't respond to her question. This man whoever he was if he even was a man was not going to war to bring back the leadership of Sauron and the forces of Morder. He seeked to control Middle Earth for himself.
Bolg looked over as he saw Legolas in the distance glaring at the Elf "For the glory of the hunt! For war! Hail Hydra!"
The massive company chanted "Hail Hydra" as they began marching away, with the bats following and wheeling overhead.
"Din methithar i phain." ("We must warn the others.") Tauriel said with determination.
"Penim lû. Tolo!" ("We may be too late - hurry!") Legolas ordered
"Bring forth the smaller legions. Let them strike in front!" Bolg ordered as he yelled out a command, the ranks of Orcs suddenly parting to let smaller, lighter, and faster Orcs run ahead of their companions, snarling.
In Erebor the Dwarves were continuing their preparations. Bilbo was running across making sure he wasn't seen as he prepared a rope to let himself down following Peggy's example from earlier. He had to get out of here and stop this. And he had a way to do so.
Bilbo suddenly stopped as he heard Bofur's voice call out to him "You should be inside. Out of the wind."
Bilbo tried to come up with a lie and lead Bofur off hoping he wouldn't say anything to anyone "No I uh... needed some air. The place still stinks of Dragon."
Bofur had a twinkle in his eye not being fooled but he still wished no ill will on the Hobbit. If anything he regretted the fact he was involved in this at all "The Elves will be moving their arches into position. The Battle will be over by tomorrow's eve."
Bilbo gave a glance to the Dwarf feeling slightly saddened.
"But I doubt we will live to see it" Bofur added not fearing the prospect of death.
"No these are. Dark days." Bilbo responded.
"Dark days indeed" Bofur said agreeing with him. Both gave a respectful nod to one another as Bilbo looked upon the horizon "No one could blame a soul for wishing themselves elsewhere."
Bilbo looked back to Bofur again still feeling conflicted about his choice.
Bofur walked towards Bilbo as he gazed up at the night sky "Must be near midnight. Bombur's got the next watch. It'll take a bit to wake him." Bofur walked away down the steps preparing to go back inside.
Bilbo suddenly called out to him. "Bofur."
Bofur turned back waiting to see what the Hobbit would say to him.
"I will see you in the morning." Bilbo said smiling trying not to show any tears.
Bofur gave one final smile at his friend knowing where he was going and knew he had to do what he felt was right much like Peggy did "Goodbye Bilbo."
Bofur walked down the steps leaving Bilbo alone as he went back to setting the rope up as he successfully threw it down and got down from it and wasted no time in running back to the city.
Back in Thranduil's tent, Peggy was finishing explaining the history of the Red Skull and Hydra to Thranduil and Gandalf. "So there you go."
"This Red Skull is indeed quite dangerous. And yet if we played his hand. He could be a valuable asset." Thranduil added
"There's no way to bargain with that maniac. You're wasting your time" Sousa said not agreeing with him feeling bewildered he would suggest such an idea.
"You said you have recruited some enemy what you call scientists to your cause? Why not bargain an alliance with this Red Skull in the same way?" Thranduil asked
Howard decided to answer "We have done that yes and set up a program. We called it Project Paperclip. But there's a limit here. And a guy with so many war crimes to count and in case you missed it though I do not know how cause of those pointy ears, nearly destroyed the world he wouldn't be on that list."
"I would rather die than work with Johann Schmidt or any Hydra agent. We are going to bring him in for his crimes." Peggy said as she gave him a stern look that indicated she was serious "And if you stand in my way I will not hesitate in using force against you."
"And suddenly you sound as obsessed as Oakenshield? Perhaps you are not so different after all." Thranduil said observing her change in behaviour.
Jarvis slightly moved away as he noticed Peggy's anger "Being obsessed with jewellery and a stone is nothing compared to bringing justice to a cause I dedicated my life too. The war may be over for everyone else. But I say it isn't until he is defeated. He seeks to control your world and yet you do not fear him?"
"Should I?" Thranduil asked still not convinced.
"You bloody well should be afraid." Peggy said with no hesitation in her voice.
Gandalf naturally agreed with Peggy as he began to confront Thranduil himself. "Agent Carter is telling you of her experiences and yet you choose not to believe her? You do not believe me? Since when has my council counted for so little? What do you think I'm trying to do?!"
"I do not doubt her claims. I simply feel they will not concern me in the battle. My army is enough to take them on. If they are truly preparing for war. And as for you. I think you're trying to save your dwarvish friends. And I admire your loyalty to them, but it does not dissuade me from my course. You started this, Mithrandir. You will forgive me if I finish it."
Thranduil exited the tent and called to one of the elves. "Are the archers in position?"
"Yes my Lord." The Elf answered
"Give the order. If anything moves on that mountain - kill it!" Thranduil ordered "The dwarves are out of time."
Peggy got up as she strided towards Thranduil walking up behind him "You really are an arrogant plonker."
Thranduil turned to her not missing a beat of her sarcasm "If you wish to insult me. Perhaps come with new insults and not reuse ones you have previously done?"
Gandalf approached Bard hoping he would find someone other than Peggy and her friends who knew the grievance of this situation "You, Bowman! Do you agree with this? Is gold so important to you? Would you buy it with the blood of dwarves?!"
Unbeknownst to them Bilbo was sneaking past some of the Laketown guards nearby them.
"It will not come to that. This is a fight they cannot win." Bard answered still believing there was hope
Suddenly, Bilbo appeared and addressed both of them. "That won't stop them. You think the dwarves will surrender - They won't. They will fight to the death to defend their own."
"Bilbo Baggins!" Gandalf exclaimed happily thankful that the Hobbit survived as Bilbo smiled happily.
Back in Thranduil's tent, Bilbo was being presented before Thranduil.
"If I'm not mistaken, this is the halfling who attempted to steel the keys to my dungeons from under the nose of my guards." Thranduil said not feeling satisfied seeing Bilbo again.
Bilbo looked extremely uncomfortable being reminded of this "Yes. Sorry about that."
"Well we helped." Jarvis added "Miss Carter got your men drunk..."
Peggy gave Jarvis a glance that signified he should be quiet as he complied.
There was a silence for a while, as Bilbo then stepped forward and put a wrapped package on the table. "I came...to give you this."
Bilbo unwrapped the package to reveal the Arkenstone. Thranduil rose in surprise upon seeing it. "The heart of the mountain! The King's Jewel."
Gandalf and Bard approached to look at it in awe. Jarvis and Sousa were also surprised at it's beauty.
"It's beautiful" Jarvis exclaimed in awe
Howard had his hand to his chin trying to figure out it's wealth "So if I was going to say maybe put 10 grand against that thing do you think it would be worth it?"
"It is worth a king's ransom to anwser your question Mr Stark. How is this yours to give?" Bard asked confused that Bilbo came upon such a precious item so easily and why he was giving it to them.
"I took it as my fourteenth share of the treasure." Bilbo answered
Gandalf smiled slightly, Peggy smiling also as she gave Bilbo a knowing look.
"Why would you do this? You owe us no loyalty." Bard asked still confused
"I'm not doing it for you. I know that dwarves can be obstinate and pigheaded and difficult, suspicious and secretive…with the worst manners you can possibly imagine, but they also brave and kind...and loyal to a fault. I've grown very fond of them, and I would save them if I can." Bilbo answered simply as he gave Peggy, Jarvis and Sousa a look of appreciation "And while they may not be from this world. They more than likely share my sentiment."
Howard pointed to himself as he noticed Bilbo didn't acknowledge him because he didn't come on this journey and he didn't know who he was "And me. I'm here too. I kind of caused this. So sorry about that."
Bilbo didn't respond to Howard's claims as he continued his point "Thorin values this stone above all else. In exchange for its return, I believe he will give you what you are owed. There will be no need for war!"
Gandalf, Bard, and Thranduil looked at each other as they prepared their decision. Peggy looked to her friends also wondering what the outcome would be.
Gandalf was leading through Dale with Bilbo behind him. "Rest up tonight. You must leave on tomorrow."
"What?" Bilbo asked confused
"Get as far away from here as possible." Gandalf ordered
"I'm-I'm not leaving. You picked me as the fourteenth man. I'm not about to leave the company now." Bilbo said disagreeing with Gandalf's order.
"There is no company - not any more. And I don't like to think what Thorin will do when he finds out what you've done." Gandalf said with worry.
"I'm not afraid of Thorin." Bilbo answered
"But you should be! Don't underestimate the evil of gold. Gold over which a serpent has long brooded. Dragon-sickness seeps into the hearts of all who come near this mountain." Gandalf warned as he looked at Bilbo appraisingly. "Almost all."
Bilbo decided to enquire about Peggy and her friends "And Peggy? Do you plan to send her away as well now that she can return back home?"
Gandalf didn't answer his question as Peggy stepped out herself to answer "Like his majesty said. We started this by joining you. We will finish it."
Bilbo smiled as Peggy gave him one final look back and at Gandalf as she returned back to the others.
Gandalf noticed Alfrid walking by and called out to him. "You there! Find this Hobbit a bed, and fill his belly with hot food. He has earned it."
Alfrid grudgingly came over and began to lead Bilbo away. As they went to go, Gandalf grabbed Alfrid's arm and whispered to him. "Hey. Keep an eye on him. If he should try to leave, you will tell me."
Alfrid walked off, cursing as a group of people walked in front of him as he pushed his way between them. "Move it! Stupid..."
Back inside Jarvis had just finished tending to Tilda as he was now sitting there with Sousa and Howard. The Commandos were sitting down having beers and cigars. Peggy entered inside.
Dugan called out to Peggy noticing her "Hey Peg! Come on over here. Sit with us! Howard that means you too and Sousa and Jarvis."
Howard joined them without hesitation "Don't need to ask me twice."
Peggy still was uncomfortable "How could you think like this? We could be going to our deaths? Do you not realise that if Thorin does not comply we will go to war?"
Dernier spoke in English for the first time "And why should we not be prepared? Let this be a sign of good will. Before the storm blows."
"We've often asked ourselves this question Peggy. Surely you did as well during the war?" Falsworth asked "This is the last moment of levity we have before God decides our fates."
Dugan offered Peggy a beer "Trust me Peg. You've more than earned it. Still know how to chug a beer?"
"Does your hat need a place to be stuffed?" Peggy asked as she took it from him as they cheered her on.
"So did any of you think it would come to this?" Sousa asked
"Not even in the slightest." Dugan answered "What about you three? If that portal hadn't opened up. What would your plans for the future have been?"
Peggy looked at Sousa not sure if she wanted to answer as Jarvis did "I would have stayed with Ana. Look after her. Perhaps find a new hobby. Maybe adopt."
Peggy looked at him sympathetically knowing that was impossible for him.
"And while some of that will remain true when and if I return home tomorrow. Some of it can't I'm sorry to say. But that doesn't mean I have other goals to replace them" Jarvis added
"Peg." Gabe asked
"I would have stayed with the SSR. And I still plan too. I do not plan to die tomorrow by anyone's hand. Especially not Schmidt's." Peggy said as she looked to Sousa "But I have been thinking about the future. Perhaps it's time to maybe consider whether I'm alone in it."
"And will you be?" Happy Sam Sawyer asked
"No." Peggy answered
Sousa gave her a smile as they looked at him wanting his answer "Same as Peggy."
The Commando's understood loud and clear as they said no more.
Howard then added his own plans "I planned to make more inventions maybe sleep with Katherine Hepburn. Joan Fontaine still has turned me down. Problem is I did all those things already. Guess I'll have to come up with a new goal."
Howard then remembered Galadriel's words to him. His greatest achievement had yet to come. What could that be? He then dismissed it as he took another chug of his beer.
Silence came over the group. Finally Morita spoke up as he asked a question to nobody in particular "How do you feel about tomorrow?"
Since anybody could answer Jarvis decided to answer as honestly as he could "If I can be true here? I'm terrified. This is. As they say. It. If Thorin refuses. Then we are going to that mountain. No going back."
"It's okay to be afraid Jarvis. Takes an even stronger man to admit it." Dugan said as he chomped on his cigar "Me? I lost that feeling years ago. Now. I'm ready for the light."
Peggy looked to her friends feeling a mixture of emotions. This could be the last time they see each other. "Thank you for this Dugan. Truly. And too all of you. You are the greatest friends I could ever ask for. And I would be proud to die among you."
They all clinked their glasses together as they continued to drink and discuss stories into the night ahead of the battle's eve tomorrow.
Early the next morning, the plain in front of the Mountain was now covered in legions of Elves and men, armed for battle. The dwarves, also prepared, were watching from above the gate blockade.
Alfrid arrived to wake Bilbo up, carrying a bowl of food. "Wakey, Wakey, Hobbit. Up you...get."
Alfrid paused not finishing his sentence as he realised that Bilbo was not in the room where he had left him.
Thranduil and Bard were riding together to the front of the armies and approach their side of the broken bridge over the moat. Peggy, Sousa, Jarvis and Howard with Dugan and the other Commado's behind them were also marching with the armies on horesback with Howard driving a cart that carried weaponry and his inventions. All of them were fitted with armour protecting them with Peggy being given a silver plate of Elven armour by Thranduil. It was an attempt to put things behind them though both still had their issues with each other. Howard naturally compared Peggy to Joan of Arc which she then had to explain to those who didn't get it. From above the blockade, Thorin drew a bow and shot an arrow at the ground directly in front of Thranduil and Bard, who immediately halted in surprise.
"I will put the next one between your eyes!" Thorin said with no hesitation as he drew his bow again, the dwarves on the wall cheering and shaking their weapons. Thranduil stared at Thorin angrily, as he then slightly tilted his head. Instantly, several rows of Elves near the front of the army pulled out their bows, nock their arrows, and aimed at the dwarves, all in one fluid motion. The dwarves' cheering was cut off abruptly as all of them but Thorin ducked behind the ramparts. After holding the pose for a few seconds, Thranduil raised his hand, the elves easily putting away their arrows. Thorin still had his bow drawn, though not hesitating or fearing the army.
"We've come to tell you: payment of your debt has been offered...and accepted." Thranduil said as he prepared to make a deal.
"What payment? I gave you nothing! You have nothing!" Thorin asked angered and confused
"We have this." Bard answered as he reached into his robe and pulled out the Arkenstone, holding it above his head. Thorin, shocked, lowered his bow upon seeing it.
"They have the Arkenstone? Thieves! How came you by the heirloom of our house? That stone belongs to the king!" Kili asked feeling betrayed
"And the king may have it - in our good will." Bard said as he put the Arkenstone back into his robe. "But first he must honor his word."
Thorin whispers to himself, the dwarves near him still being able to hear him. "They are taking us for fools. This is a ruse, a filthy lie."
Balin looked shocked that Thorin's mental state had deteriorated to the point at which he would even consider this.
Thorin then yelled out "THE ARKENSTONE IS IN THIS MOUNTAIN! IT IS A TRICK!"
"Trust me it isn't" Peggy called out
"You are not allowed to speak to me anymore woman! You and your friends have no place here! Go home where you belong!" Thorin called out in anger
At the top of the ramparts, Bilbo stepped out from the dwarves. "It-It's no trick. The stone is real. I gave it to them."
As Bilbo spoke revealing himself Thorin's expression changed to a mixture of sorrow and anger. Thranduil and Bard looked worried, as they thought Bilbo was still safely in Dale. Jarvis and Sousa looked to Peggy as she gave them a look that said 'He needed to do this.'
Thorin and the other dwarves looked at Bilbo in shock.
Thorin's emotions overtook him "You…"
"I took it as my fourteenth share." Bilbo answered
"You would steall from me?" Thorin asked his voice slightly breaking
"Steal from you? No. No. I may be a burglar, but I like to think I'm an honest one. I'm willing to let it stand against my claim." Bilbo answered
"Against your claim?! Your claim! You have no claim over me you miserable rat!" Thorin yelled as he threw down his bow in anger and begins walking toward Bilbo.
"I was going to give it to you. Many times I wanted to, but..." Bilbo said trying to explain
"But what, thief?!" Thorin asked demanding an answer.
"You are changed, Thorin! The dwarf I met in Bag End would never have gone back on his word! Would never have doubted the loyalty of his kin!" Bilbo yelled "He wouldn't throw others away when he claimed he would help them. Help them return to a home they were lost from. You of all people should know that."
"Do not speak to me...of loyalty! Of home!" Thorin yelled as he shouted to the other dwarves. "Throw him from the rampart!"
Bilbo looked shocked upon hearing this. The other dwarves, rather than obeying Thorin, stepped away from Bilbo in confusion. Thranduil and Bard looked concerned. Jarvis and Sousa looked to Peggy, Howard not giving a response as Peggy then turned to Dugan as she held out her hand. Complying Dugan handed her a sniper rifle as she set it up and prepared to fire at the wall.
Thorin naturally was surprised that no one was obeying him. "DO YOU HEAR ME?!"
Thorin grabbed Fili's arm in an attempt to get him to obey but Fili shaked him away. "I will do it myself!"
Thorin lunged forward and grabbed Bilbo, shouting. "CURSE YOU!"
"No!" Fili exclaimed
As Thorin struggled with Bilbo, the other dwarves leapt forward, shouting, to pull Thorin away. Thorin however managed to grab Bilbo and began pushing him over the rampart. Suddenly before he could do anything a bullet was fired at the wall missing the dwarves and only hitting the wall as they all moved away in surprise as Thorin looked down at Peggy holding the sniper rifle as she put it down.
"I will put the next one between your eyes" Peggy said turning Thorin's words against him "Just a word of warning as it were."
Thorin was livid and tired of those who had been brought into this Quest that shouldn't have been here in his opinion in the first place as he looked down at Peggy and her friends and Bilbo "Cursed be the Wizard that forced you all on this Company!"
Suddenly, Gandalf appeared, striding through the armies. His voice magically being amplified to incredibly loud, deep, and powerful tones. "IF YOU DON'T LIKE MY BURGLAR…"
Thorin gave a glare at the wizard upon seeing him again.
Gandalf's voice then returned to a normal volume and tone. "Then please don't damage him. Return him to me! You're not making a very splendid figure as king under the mountain, are you? Thorin son of Thrain!"
Thorin slowly let Bilbo up, as some of the other dwarves rushed to help Bilbo up.
"Never again will I have dealings with wizards..." Thorin began to claim
Bofur gently pushed Bilbo toward the rope he'd hung the night before to climb down the walls.
"Go." Bofur ordered calmy and softly
"Or Shire-rats!" Thorin exclaimed as he looked to Peggy "Or a female agent and her brigade of fools."
Bilbo threw his coiled rope over the wall and clambered down.
"Are we resolved? The return of the Arkenstone for what was promised." Bard asked hoping this matter could be resolved
Thorin, breathing heavily, looked to a ridge in the distance, as if looking for someone or something.
"Give us your answer! Will you have peace or war?" Bard asked
As Thorin bowed his head, a large raven flew up to the ramparts and perched beside him. Thorin and the raven stared at each other as he gave his answer. "I will have war!"
A rumbling was suddenly heard in the distance, as the armies looked up to see the ridge being covered by troops of heavily armored dwarves, lead by a huge dwarf riding a battle-pig.
"Ironfoot." Gandalf said recognising him.
The Erebor dwarves began to cheer and scream as they saw their backup arriving.
"Ribo i thangail!" ("Rush the shield-fence!") Thranduil ordered as he rode through his army as his Elves and the Lakepeople turned away from the gates of Erebor and began marching quickly toward the oncoming Iron Hills dwarves. Peggy and her crew followed them as Gandalf strided along with them, Bilbo rushing to keep up.
"Who is that? He doesn't look very happy." Bilbo asked confused
"It is Dain, lord of the Iron Hills - Thorin's cousin." Gandalf answered
"Are they alike?" Bilbo asked
"I always found Thorin the more reasonable of the two." Gandalf answered not feeling satisfied
"So we're dealing with another mad man? Wonderful. It runs in the family" Peggy exclaimed with a tone of annoyance.
The two armies and Peggy's force halted a short distance from one another, as Dain rided his pig onto a rocky overlook to address the Elves and Men and Peggy's crew.
"Good morning! How are we all? I have a wee proposition, if you wouldn't mind giving me a few moments of your time. Would you consider...just sodding off!" Dain yelled
The townspeople, clutching their weapons, stepped back in fear, while the Elves pulled out their swords and stepped forward.
"All of you - right now!" Dain ordered
"Stand fest!" Bard ordered
Gandalf strided forward trying to reason with the Dwarf. "Come now, lord Dain!"
"Gandalf the Grey. Tell this rabble to leave, or I'll water the ground with their blood!" Dain ordered
"There is no need for war between dwarves, men and elves! A legion of orcs march on the mountain. Stand your army down!" Gandalf said trying to reason with him.
"I will not stand down before any elf! Not least this faithless woodland sprite!" Dain said as he gestured toward Thranduil, who looked angry "He wishes nothing but ill upon my people! If he chooses to stand between me and my kin - I'll split his pretty head open!"
Thranduil smiled furiously, trying not to be taken in by Dain's insults.
"See if he's still smirking then!"" Dain said with satisfaction as he went to rejoin his army.
"Dain wait!" Gandalf called out as the Erebor dwarves cheered for their kin.
"Let them advance. See how far they get" Thranduil said smugly not feeling intimidated.
Dain continued riding back as he heard Thranduil's insults "You think I give a dead dog for your threats you pointy eared princess!"
Thranduil grimaced at this as Peggy looked at him with a smug smile of satisfaction even if she was annoyed that nobodyw was listening "You wanted a new insult? Well there you go."
"You hear that, lads?!" Dain yelled as he stopped and turned to his army.
"Please if a Dwarf could listen just for once I think we would know what miracles look like!" Peggy yelled trying to reason with him.
Dain turned back as he noticed Peggy and her force there. He was naturally taken with her beauty. "You must be the lass known as Peggy Carter? And the rest of you folks too I see. Thorin was not lying. You are one of the most beautiful girls that any Dwarf has laid eyes on. But that doesn't mean I'll stand down for you. But maybe when it's over we can have a little chat. You and me sweetheart."
"Bugger off." Peggy said without hesitation.
"You even speak my language. A woman after me own heart." Dain said as he turned and gave his men the order "Come on! Let's give these bastards a good hammering!"
A dwarf yelled out a command, the Iron Hills dwarves raising their weapons and cheering. Thranduil moved towards Bard as Peggy signalled her group to move back a little.
"Stand your men down! I will deal with Ironfoot and his rabble" Thranduil ordered as he advanced with his army of archers. He then turned to Peggy "I'd advise you to stay with them."
Peggy and Thranduil shared a look for a moment before she signalled her force to join with Bard's.
Dain arrived back at his army as he went towards a Dwarf "Right. Let's get this done. Send in the goats!"
Upon Dain's order an army of Dwarves riding goats ran through the main force towards the Elf army.
Thranduil gave an order as his men pulled out their bow and arrows and prepared to fire.
Gandalf moved through the armies in an attempt to stop this "Thranduil! This is madness!"
The goat forces moved towards the Elves as Thranduil gave the order to fire as a barrage of arrows were sent flying towards the goat forces. Dain suddenly gave an order as a barrage of what appeared to be arrows with wings fired back and collided with the Elves' arrows breaking them. The Erebor Dwarves cheered with satisfaction upon seeing this.
The flying Dwarf arrows ended up striking a large chunk of the Elf army crushing and killing them leaving Thranduil shocked.
"Hey! How do you like that the old twiddly widdlys!" Dain yelled with satisfaction "Ha Ha ya buggers!"
Thranduil not wanting to give up ordered his men to fire again as the Dwarves fired their flying arrows again the same thing happening as the goat army advanced further Thorin gazing on from the rampart above. The Elves in counter to this performed a complicated maneuver to put their shield-and-spear bearers at the front of the army, the arches standing behind them. The goat army however simply road over the shields, crushing and killing some Elves along the way as both forces engaged each other with spears and other weaponry as well as the horns of the Goats killing Dwarf and Elf alike. Dain and his forces then rode into the battle joining the goat force as they barraged through the Elves, Dain knocking down an Elf and battering another one with his war hammer.
The Erebor Dwarves were all feeling mixed emotions some feeling satisfied that help had come while others such as Bofur were scared as he gaxed out at the mountain. As both continued fighting, a rumbling was suddenly heard at the base of a spur of the mountain. The armies grew silent as they turned to look.
Peggy moved towards Gandalf as she noticed he was whispering to himself. "What is it? What's happening? Is it an Earthquake of some sort?"
"No!" Gandalf answered "These are Were-worms!"
Peggy was naturally confused "Were-what?"
At the spur of the mountain where the rumbling was coming from, massive worms, hundreds of feet long and dozens of feet thick, suddenly broke through the rocks. Their mouths were essentially giant drilling machines, strong enough to crush the toughest rocks in their jaws. The human, Elf, and dwarf armies looked on in shock.
"Oh, come on!" Dain exclaimed in disbelief.
"For once I agree with him." Peggy said as she rejoined her group, going towards Jarvis and Sousa, Howard, Dugan and the Commandos.
"Miss Carter?" Jarvis asked wondering what she would do next
"So what do we do Peggy?" Sousa asked awaiting orders.
Peggy looked to her forces as Dugan gave her smile "You're giving the orders now Miss Union Jack. Just say the word."
The worms suddenly retreated into the tunnels they had made through the mountains approaching the Lonely Mountain. As the mist cleared, Azog and a few other Orcs could now be seen standing atop a hill. Behind them were several massive contraptions made of wood, rope, and cloth, meant as signalling devices.
"Come forth my Armies!" Azog proclaimed giving a sign as one of the wooden structures opened up in a particular position, and a horn sounded. Immediately, legions of Orcs began pouring out of the were-worm tunnels.
"The hordes of hell are upon us! To battle! To battle, sons of Durin!" Dain ordered as he and part of his army turned and rushed toward the oncoming Orcs.
Peggy's force looked to her waiting for her answer on what do as she then gave it. "Move forward."
Peggy's force complied as they followed behind her as she closed her eyes and gave one final sigh of exasperation "Good luck everyone." Peggy then raised her sword and gun "Advance!"
Peggy and her forces moved into battle joining the Dwarf armies as they headed towards the Orc army. In war terms they were going over the top. With no way of turning back now. This was it. The Battle of the Five Armies was about to begin.
Author's Note: So yeah that's that chapter done. Extra longer than normal I know which is probably how things will be going forward as we approach the final act as it were. This chapter being the lead up and the beginning of the final battle. I felt it was important to have moments of levity and moments of down time because they are just as important as the battle itself which as I've said before do to the fact that writing action is hard in written format it will be hard to convey that going forward but I hope I can create something satisfying.
The fate of Bard's wife isn't really explained in the film so I made up my own vague reason. It's not really thought out I know but I wanted some explanation and I wanted to relate Bard to Peggy's struggle which she still is dealing with even if it is internally.
The Red Skull's plan and some of the dialogue comes from Avengers Earth's Mightiest Heroes that cartoon where the Skull had a similar plan to win the War by bringing forth armies and armies of creatures from Asgard. The appearance of Laufey was decided rather than a generic Frost Giant like in the show in order to continue to the continuity that the Frost Giant King would naturally still want to wage war and if he could do so without Odin's interference he would.
The Norn Stones and the Norns are from the comics. They haven't been seen yet in the films though the deleted scene of Thor in the pool from Age Of Ultron indicates he was possessed by a Norn. I've tried to determine their powers and I can't find much so my explanations of them aren't me being vague it's just this is all I can find for now. Some would wonder why Red Skull is still messing with Asgard relics after what happened last time but the Skull is not one to give in so easily. He wanted to harness the power of the Gods and believe himself to be one and he wouldn't give that up now. Also him quoting Gandalf's chess metaphor is deliberate. If he was aware of the irony I'm sure he wouldn't be satisfied by it.
One moment of down time I'm hoping I did okay was Peggy and her friends final talk together before the morning of the battle. Final conversations like these can bring levity to a piece but also hint where our characters are going in the future and allow them to reflect on their state of mind. Now will this answer exactly where our characters will be by the end of the story? Who knows that's for the end of the story to say. Even if I'm following the MCU canon that doesn't mean certain things that haven't been determined yet in canon will be followed.
The phrase in question for this chapter "Over the Top" relates less to it's modern meaning of exaggeration and more to what it was during WWI. The infantry rising out of their own trenches to assault the enemy. In order to attack opposing trench lines, infantry were required to climb over the parapet of their trenches and cross No Man's Land which is in some respect what the forces are now doing in the battle with the Orcs coming out of their hiding place in the tunnel mountains and then the Elves appearing from behind with their swords as they jump from behind the Elves with shields and then the Erebor Dwelves destroying the wall they built and going over it. Or maybe I'm wrong with the analogy and I just wanted to bring some line references from the finale of Blackadder Goes Forth which while it is a comedy the last moments are a profound moment of darkness and is how some people remember that event.
Also while I couldn't write every conversation I still had to mention what Howard was thinking if I had shown Peggy in her suit of armour and of course he'd compare her to Joan of Arc. Needless to say Peggy commanding the Commandos in a big battlefield style environment would make for an interesting and cool image for me personally. And of course as with most of Howard's character at least the Dominic Cooper version and like how Tony was in the early comments Howard's comments about his life are based on Howard Hughes' real life exploits. At this point I'm convinced Hughes never existed in the MCU and that Howard did everything that Hughes did in real life instead in the MCU. Either that or Howard went to great lengths to imitate him and his choices. And I later realised Alfrid wasn't wearing his hat anymore in the scene where he confronts Gandalf. Just pretend he is for the sake of Dugan's joke.
Anyway I think that's everything for now but knowing me though there's probably something I forgot that I'll remember later. We're on the home stretch now for this story. Hope you're all looking forward to more. This is your friend Steve993 signing off and I'll see you next time.