Chapter 6 - The Secret of Your Beauty and The Mystery of Your Soul

The ponies that Beorn allowed them to use made the trip to the outskirts of Mirkwood faster, so much so that everyone felt they had gained time on the Orcs.

Gandalf dismounted from his horse and walked up to the open path leading into the forest.

"The Elven Gate. Here lies our path through Mirkwood."

Bifur jumped down from the horse before helping Jasmine to dismount. As she slid down through his arms to the ground she couldn't resist a quick kiss.

Bifur smiled and kissed her back.

Dwalin looked around before he dismounted saying, "No sign of the Orcs. We have luck on our side."

Gandalf squinted a bit. He wasn't so sure. Off in the distance he spied the skin-changer in his bear alter-ego. "Set the ponies loose. Let them return to their Master."

Bilbo approached the Wizard, a worried look on his face. "This forest feels sick. As if a disease lies upon it. Is there no way around?"

Gandalf looked back at the Hobbit, "Not unless we go 200 miles north. Or twice that distance south."

The Wizard paused momentarily, uncertain if he should continue into Mirkwood. His hesitation only lasted a second before he moved forward, disappearing into the trees.

As the Company waited for his return from the forest, Fili pulled Jasmine aside.

"I have something for you."

"Really? What is it?" she asked.

"Since you and Bifur are now courting, I thought you might need this." Holding out his hand, he opened it to reveal a beautifully crafted silver bead. "It's for you to give him…for his beard."

Jasmine's face lit up and she smiled at her friend. "Oh Fili…thank you so much! I didn't know where I would get a bead for him." She hugged her friend. "Where did you get it?"

Grinning, he indicated one the braids in his hair that was now missing a silver bead.

"No you didn't." she replied. "But surely it must mean something to you?"

"It will mean more when my best friend gives it to the Dwarf she loves."

Jasmine became teary, hugging him. "Thank you. This means the world to me."

He pressed his forehead against hers and smiled. "Just seeing my'bâheluh' have a long and happy life with the one she loves is enough."

She put the precious bead in her cross body pack.

The Dwarves started removing the items Beorn had given them from the ponies before they turned them loose. Bifur helped Jasmine on with her pack plus a basket containing some food stuffs. She helped him with his pack after that.

As he went to help his friends, Jasmine noticed that something was amiss with Bilbo. The Hobbit bore a strange expression on his face and seemed to be fiddling with something in his pocket. She started to ask him what was wrong, but he quickly came out of whatever trance he was in.

Shaking her head and thinking perhaps she was mistaken, she noticed Gandalf had reappeared, "Not my horse! I need it!"

Nori was in the process of removing the animal's saddle when the Wizard returned

Everyone looked up giving a collective gasp.

Bilbo seemed stunned. "You're not leaving us?"

"I would not do this unless I have to."

Looking down at the Hobbit, he said, "You've changed Bilbo Baggins. You're not the same Hobbit as the one who left the Shire."

Bilbo had a pained look on his face as he said, "I was going to tell you. I…found something in the Goblin tunnels.

The Wizard leaned closer to him. "Found what? What did you find?"

In a strained voice he answered, "My courage."

"Good. Well that's good." Straightening back up he added, "You'll need it."

Gandalf walked away from Bilbo towards his horse. As he passed by Thorin he said, "I'll be waiting for you at the overlook, before the slopes of Erebor. Keep the map and key safe." Stopping before him, he looked solemnly at the Dwarf. "Do not enter that mountain without me. This is not the Greenwood of old. There is a stream in the woods that carries a dark enchantment. Do not touch the water. Cross only by the stone bridge. The very air of the forest is heavy with illusion. It'll seek to enter your mind and lead you astray."

Bilbo looked at Dwalin and repeated Gandalf's words, 'Lead us astray?' What does that mean?"

Gandalf mounted his horse. "You must stay on the path. Do not leave it. If you do, you'll never find it again."

Thorin turned to go as did Gandalf. Over his shoulder the Wizard's last words were, "No matter what may come, stay on the path."

Thorin started into the forest. "Come on. We must reach the mountain before the sun sets on Durin's Day."

Bilbo watched Gandalf ride away, a bit of anxiety tugging at him. "Durin's Day?"

Thorin enter the Elven Gate saying, "It is our one chance to find the hidden door."

O – O – O – O – O - O

"The path turns this way."

Thorin and Dwalin took the lead, keeping their eyes on the forest floor, making sure the Company did not lose the stone pathway. At first it was easy to keep up, where it turned and twisted, but the further in the group went, the harder it became to find their way. The forest was indeed strange – no wind, no sounds of birds or other animals.

The air became thick, stifling and Jasmine was finding it hard to concentrate. She wasn't even sure how long they had been trudging through the woods. It seemed the others were struggling as well. She heard varied grunts and groans and from them.

Finally, Kili called out, "We found the bridge." as everyone hustled forward towards it.

Unfortunately, their joy was short lived as the middle part of the stone bridge was missing.

As Bofur walked up to it, his face fell. "Oh." Struggling to speak, he offered his solution. "We could try and swim it."

Thorin responded with some irritation, "Didn't you hear what Gandalf said? A dark magic lies upon this forest. The waters of this stream are enchanted."

Bofur seemed to be having trouble concentrating as he scanned the water in front of him. "Doesn't look very enchanting to me."

Still irritated, Thorin said, "We must find another way across."

Jasmine stood next to Bifur finding it hard to stay awake. She glanced over at him and he seemed to be having a similar problem. His eyes were blinking and he seemed to be staring, not focusing on anything.

Kili started tugging on a group of vines hanging on their side of the stream. Turning towards Thorin, he said, "These vines look strong enough."

"Kili!" Thorin barked. "We send the lightest first."

Everyone turned and looked right at Bilbo. The Hobbit made a face, not happy with being singled out. Still he decided to take one for the team. Climbing on the nearest set of vines, he slowly made his way across. Carefully, he placed his large feet on each section of the plant even as it swayed and bounced.

"It's all right."

As the Hobbit grabbed the next large creeper to move forward, he added, "Can't see any problem." Then he slipped, grunting, "There's one," as he fell upside down.

"Everything's fine."

Watching from the bank, Jasmine's concern for her small friend increased. She kept shaking her head, lightly tapping her cheeks to try and remain awake.

The Hobbit was having his own troubles, but finally reached the opposite shore, jumping from the vines onto solid ground. He seemed to be talking to himself before turning towards the Company, saying loudly, "Stay where you are! Oh."

All the Dwarves had climbed onto the vines and were making their way over to where he was. Jasmine was the only one left on the far bank. She had decided to wait until everyone else had crossed. No one from the group had even noticed she was missing… not even Bifur.

Thorin was the first to arrive, leaping onto solid ground. He glanced around him as if searching for something. That's when both he and Bilbo spied a beautiful white stag appear out of the brush. The Hobbit was mesmerized by the animal, but Thorin began to raise his bow, pulling back on the string.

From her spot on the shore, she too saw the animal. Even she was captivated by the creature. He didn't seem to fear being seen, staring at Bilbo and Thorin, he even issued a small snort.

With hesitation, Thorin quickly raised his bow and shot at the stag, thankfully missing the beautiful animal.

Jasmine was horrified, but had little time to decide why "Mr. Royal" had tried to kill the creature. The sound of a splash drew her attention back to those crossing the water. Bombur had fallen into it seemingly unconscious. It took the strength of several members to drag him onto the shore. It was obvious he was not going to wake up anytime soon. So a means to transport the large Dwarf needed to be created.

Taking a deep breath, Jasmine finally climbed onto the vines slowly crossing over. She was about halfway there when she heard Bifur calling to her.

He had suddenly realized she was not with him. Panicking, he started to climb back onto the vines to reach her.

"Amrâlimê.. Jeg uz bezorgan jeg alovath tho thar."

Jasmine waved him off, saying, "I'm all right, Bifur. Stay where you are." As soon as she reached the other side, he pulled her from the vines and into his arms. Hugging her, he said several things in his language, obviously upset for what had happened.

Jasmine shook her head giving him a quick kiss. She put her mouth near his ear and whispered, "I'm fine. You did nothing wrong."

He pulled back to gaze into her eyes. He was truly upset that he had left her. She caressed his cheek repeating, "I am fine, Bifur. Really I am. Please don't fret so." She hugged him again, hoping to calm him.

It didn't take long for the Dwarves to construct a carrier for Bombur. After placing him on it, they hoisted the large Dwarf onto their shoulders to continue their journey. Bifur was one of the ones carrying his cousin, but from time to time he would glance back at Jasmine to be sure she was still there.

It wasn't long before the strangeness of the forest took back its hold on the Company. They had started to move at a slower pace when Nori said, "We need to take a rest." Carrying Bombur and the weird atmosphere of the forest had begun to take its toll.

Pausing by a large out cropping of rocks, Bilbo sat down, lowering his head momentarily. Jasmine sat near him, struggling with her own bizarre thoughts.

The Hobbit began mumbling under his breath. "What is that? Those voices…can you hear them?"

Jasmine gazed at her friend. "Voices?"

Thorin also answered. "I hear nothing. No wind…no birds."

Several of the others made comments. Their movements and language made it seem they were hung-over.

Thorin apparently grew angry with what was happening. "This is taking too long. Is there no end to this accursed forest?"

Gloin seemed to be staggering a bit as he replied, "None that I can see. Only trees and more trees."

Thorin came off the rock he had been resting on, moving in one direction, "This way."

'Oin began to say something, "Gandalf said…"

But Thorin cut him off. "Do as I say. Follow me."

Bilbo didn't seem to realize the Company had left, following Thorin's path. He seemed to be fascinated with the multitude of large spider webs next to him. He even tweaked one of them…making it vibrate.

Jasmine had not moved either. She had remained where she was, staring blankly up into the trees. A sudden shiver coursed down her back bringing her back to the here and now. Shaking her head to clear it, she realized everyone was gone, except the Hobbit. He seemed to wake from his trance at the same time. He too noticed that the Dwarves had departed.

"No, no, wait. Wait. Stop. We can't leave the path. We must stay on the path."

Bilbo and Jasmine both hurried after the group, trying to catch up.

O – O – O – O – O

Time seemed to lose all meaning as the Company continued to trek through the forest. Everyone struggled to maintain any sort of coherent thought as they trudged forward.

Ori stopped walking and picked up something from the leaf litter on the forest floor. "Look." He had found a small leather pouch.

Dori took the pouch from his brother saying, "A tobacco pouch. There's Dwarves in these woods."

Bofur took the pouch from Dori staring at it. "Dwarves from the Blue Mountains no less. This is exactly the same as mine."

Bilbo turned to Bofur and with some irritation said, "Because it is yours. Do you understand? We're going around in circles. We are lost."

Thorin spoke up, "We're not lost. We keep heading east."

'Oin added, "But which way is east? We've lost the sun."

Dwalin stared at 'Oin, "I thought you were the expert."

Bilbo raised his face and glanced up into the trees above him. Murmuring to himself, he suddenly realized something, "Up there…we need to get above the canopy."

Jasmine watched as Bilbo began to climb up disappearing from sight. "Be careful," she said to no one in particular. Leaning against some nearby rocks, she watched as the members of Company began to push and shove each other. Wanting no part of it, she made sure to stay out of the way.

Thorin seemed to be listening to something then bellowed, "Enough! Quiet! All of you! We're being watched."

O – O – O – O – O – O

The last thing she remembered was Thorin yelling, but when she came to, Jasmine couldn't move, couldn't see. Some kind of sticky white netting was all over her, blocking her sight. She struggled, but couldn't break free from it. The nearby moans and groans of her companions could be heard, she just couldn't see them.

How long had she been this way…she didn't have a clue. The sound of something skittering around her only made everything more frightening. A commotion nearby took her mind in that direction, even if her body couldn't. It suddenly felt like she was slowly falling until she landed on the forest floor with soft thud.

Finally finding she had some movement in her arms and hands, she began to rip and tear at whatever was encasing her. As she pulled the white netting from her body, it was then she realized what had been wrapped around her. It was spider webbing.

Horrified as she twisted and pulled it off, she spied the body of a dead spider near her. Not just any spider, a giant one. The scream that rose up and out of her throat rattled the nearby trees. If there was one thing that could send her into a petrifying seizure, it was a spider. The fact that these were giants only quadrupled that feeling. She couldn't get away fast enough.

When she finally got most of the sticky crap off, she began to run. She also lost what little remained of her common sense. She had no thoughts except to get as far away as she could. She made tracks, running as hard and fast as she could, until one of the giants appeared in front of her. She issued another scream as she pulled her sword and started swinging.

Bifur had heard Jasmine and began searching for her, killing any of eight legged freaks that got in his way. He finally found her. Tears were streaming down her face as she brought her sword down again and again, smashing the remains of one of the large insects. As she raised her arms to hit it again, he grabbed her and turned her around. Realizing it was Bifur, she collapsed against him, sobbing. Trying to comfort her, Bifur just held her to his chest until she began to calm down.

Thorin and the rest of the Dwarves arrived where they were standing running past them, only to pull up as another of the spiders dropped out of the tree in front of them.

Jasmine buried her face in Bifur's chest, unable to take the sight of another one.

Thorin readied his sword preparing to fight, when a sound caused him to raise his eyes up into the canopy.

High above them, a Blonde Elf dashed across the branches of a tree then sliding down a piece of spider silk. Landing on the creature, he killed it and in one complete motion sliced open the abdomen of another before skidding to a stop in front of the Company. He had returned his sword to its scabbard and pulled out his bow aiming it at Thorin. Out of nowhere other Elves appeared their weapons trained on all the Dwarves. Jasmine looked up at them wondering what was going to happen now.

Their leader spoke directly to Thorin, "Do not think I won't kill you Dwarf, it would be my pleasure."

As the group was surrounded, a loud scream pierced the air. Realizing his brother was missing, Fili turned towards the sound. "Kili!"

O – O – O – O

It wasn't long before Kili was summarily returned to the group by a female Elf with long auburn hair. The Leader told his soldiers to search the Company. Each member was stripped of their weapons. Jasmine prayed they wouldn't find her more personal items in her cross body pack. Strangely, tho' she was searched, it was not to the degree the Dwarves were.

The Blonde Elf took a silver picture frame from Gloin making him angry.

"Hey! Give it back that's private."

"Who is this? Your brother."

Indignantly, Gloin replied, "That is my wife."

"And who is this horrid creature…a Goblin mutant?"

"That's my wee lad, Gimli."

He raised an eyebrow at him before walking away. Approaching the auburn haired Elf he asked in his language, "Are the spiders dead?"

"Yes, but more will come. They're growing bolder."

Another Elf approached handing Thorin's sword to him. He took it admiring its beauty, turning it over and around before asking, "Where did you get this?"

Contemptuously, he replied back, "It was given to me."

Scornfully, the Elf swung the sword into Thorin's face, "Not just a thief, but a liar as well." He then barked an order to the others.

Each Dwarf as well as Jasmine had their wrists bound before being led away. One of the Elves tried to separate Jasmine from the group, for what reason she did not know, but she remained by Bifur's side.

When the Company arrived at King Thranduil's realm, the Dwarves were taken into his dungeons. Each Dwarf was taken to a cell and pushed inside. When Bifur was pushed into one, the Elf guard tried to take Jasmine elsewhere, but she refused.

"He is my husband. I must stay with him."

The Elf gave her an odd stare, but allowed her into the cell. She walked inside sitting next to Bifur. Wrapping her arms around him, she finally let go. Burying her face against his chest, she began to cry.

Concerned, he lifted her face, brushing at the tears she had shed. He spoke to her, even though he knew she couldn't understand him. Putting his forehead against hers, he continued to speak softly. He hoped his quiet voice would help calm her. This continued for some time until Jasmine took a shuddering breath.

"I will be all right, my love. I'm just so tired. This day was too much for me. I'm terrified of spiders, but I'm guessing you've already figured that out." She took another breath. "Throw in the fact that they were giant sized and I almost came unglued. Now that we are together I'll get better. I just need some time. I love you, Bifur."

He kissed her softly and whispered, "Amrâlimê."

She placed her head back against his chest and closed her eyes.

O – O – O – O – O

Unbeknownst to them, their conversation was being over heard. The She-Elf had been walking by when she heard Jasmine speaking. Pausing outside, she wondered how a woman from the World of Men, could be in love with a Dwarf? What was it that drew her to him? Perhaps it was something to contemplate. Love could make you do strange things…or so she had been told.

As she traversed past the different cells and around the different levels, she found herself eventually in front of the cell containing the Dwarf she had rescued. He was playing with a small dark stone, tossing it up to catch it again in his hands.

Pausing in front of his cell, she asked, "The stone in your hand, what is it?"

Kili debated on whether to answer, but replied, "It is a talisman." He glared at her before continuing, "A powerful spell lies upon it...if any but a Dwarf reads the runes on this stone, they will be forever 'cursed!" He held up the stone in her direction for emphasis.

Tauriel's eyes grew large as she backed away to leave, until Kili added, "Or not. Depending on whether you believe in that sort of thing; it's just a token. A Rune Stone. My mother gave it to me so I'd remember my promise."

She came back with a slight smile tugging at her mouth, realizing he was jesting with her. "What promise?"

Kili too smiled softly. "That I would come back to her. She worries. She thinks I'm reckless." He continued to toss the rock into the air and catch it.

Lowering her eyes, she asked, "Are you?"

Giving a roguish grin, he shook his head, "Nah!" Tossing the stone once more to catch it, he missed as it bounced out of the cell and almost went off the stone walkway if not for the Elf. She stopped it with her foot.

Kili jumped to his feet staring through the bars of his cell as Tauriel bent down to retrieve it. Holding the Rune up, she inspected it, turning it around in her fingers.

Kili's gaze lifted as the sounds of merriment drifted down from above. "Sounds like quite a party you're having up there."

Turning back to him she smiled, "It is Mereth Nuin Giliath; The Feast of Starlight. All light is sacred to the Eldar, but the Wood Elves love best the light of the stars."

"I always thought it is a cold light, remote and far away."

Stunned by his words, she replied, "It is memory, precious and pure." Handing his token back to him, she added, "Like your promise."

Kili's eyes softened as he gazed back at her. Taking the Rune Stone from her hand he kept his eyes on her.

She walked away from him before glancing back over her shoulder. In a soft whispery voice she said, "I have walked there sometimes, beyond the forest and up into the night. I have seen the world fall away and the white light forever fill the air."

Kili smiled softly at her, "I saw a fire moon once. It rose over the pass near Dunland. Huge! Red and gold it was, it filled the sky."

Intrigued with his story, Tauriel sat down on the stairs and continued to listen.

"We were an escort for some merchants from Ered Luin; they were trading in silverwork for furs. We took the Greenway south, keeping the mountain to our left, and then it appeared. This huge fire moon lighting our path. I wish I could show you…"

Jasmine had heard the conversion between Kili and the Elf begin. Getting to her feet, she walked over to gaze through the bars of her cell. From her position, she could just see them. Bifur had fallen asleep, so she watched and listened alone. A warm feeling came over her as the two spoke. Was something beginning between them? She didn't know, but wouldn't that be something?"

Coming back over to the bench, she reclaimed her spot next to Bifur. Laying her head back on his chest, she listened to the gentle thump, thump, thump of his heart. As she put one arm back around him, he uttered a gentle sigh. Smiling, she closed her eyes and drifted off to sleep.

O – O – O – O – O – O

"I'll wager the sun is on the rise. Must be nearly dawn," said a depressed Bofur.

Not far away, Ori replied, "We're never gonna reach the mountain are we?"

Out of the shadows, Bilbo suddenly appeared. Standing in front of Thorin's cell, he held up a set of keys. "Not stuck in here you're not."

All the Dwarves heard him and rushed to their cage doors. Jasmine gave Bifur a huge smile. They were about to be sprung.

Loudly, Balin replied, "Bilbo!" The other Dwarves also began shouting.

As Bilbo began unlocking Thorin's door, he hissed at them, "Shhhhh! There are guards nearby!"

He moved from cell to cell, opening each door to release the excited Dwarves. Once everyone was free, they congregated on a central stair as Bilbo pointed in one direction. "Not that way…down here. He hurried down a long staircase with everyone following.

When they got to the bottom, he waved them over to one corner of the room. "This way."

Kili's face scrunched up when he realized where they were. "I don't believe it! We're in his cellars!"

Bofur piled on, adding, "You're supposed to be leading us out not further in."

"I know what I'm doing…"

Bofur cut him off with a terse, "SHHH!"

Bilbo kept directing the Company further down a row of wine barrels. Bifur and Jasmine passed him and he said, "Keeping going."

Once everyone was in position, Bilbo whispered, "Everyone, climb into the barrels…quickly."

Not happy with his suggestion, Dwalin growled, "Are you mad? They'll find us."

"No, no they won't. I promise. Please! Please! You must trust me!"

The Dwarves milled about discussing their options. Upset, Bilbo turned toward Thorin to get his help.

Thorin barked at the others, "Do as he says!"

Finally, they began to climb into the different barrels. Bifur lifted Jasmine into one and then climbed in after her. Wrapping their arms around each other in the tight space, she rested her head against his shoulder.

Bilbo went down the aisle to be sure all of the Dwarves were secured before returning to the front of the line.

Once everyone was in, Bofur popped out of his barrel and said, "What do we do now?" Everyone else did the same waiting to hear the Hobbit's reply.

"Hold your breath."

"Hold me breath. What do ya mean?"

Throwing a lever at the beginning of the row, all the barrels began to roll off the tilting platform, sending them into a hole in the floor. Yells and shouts echoed for a moment until the wine barrels disappeared from sight and flooring righted itself.

Jasmine screamed into Bifur's chest as their barrel hit the water soaking both of them. Moments later a screaming Bilbo fell through the trap door and into the water.

Thorin saw him and said, "Welcome Master Baggins."

Trying to get his breath back, the Hobbit waved off the Dwarf's welcome as he held on to the closest barrel.

The barrels began to move down the underground river clustered together. Seeing what was dead ahead, Thorin yelled, "HOLD ON!" just as they all careened over a waterfall.

Jasmine's eyes went wide as did Bifur's as they dropped over, filling the barrel with more water. How the barrel remained upright and didn't sink was beyond her comprehension. The water rapids propelled all of them quickly towards what would hopefully be their means of escape.

The sound of a loud horn suddenly echoed around the narrow causeway. The barrels and their Dwarf riders, continued to surge forward.

Not far in front of the Company appeared a stone and metal gate that hopefully would be their path to freedom. Thorin watched as one of the guards on duty scurried up the stone walkway throwing a large wooden lever. In front of them, the gate slowly began to swing closed.

Thorin yelled his objection. "Noooo!" just as his barrel arrived at the gate. As the other barrels arrived at the gate entrance, they began collecting under the stone overhang.

Jasmine and Bifur's barrel arrived at the river gate in time to see an Elf guard tumble from the wall, an arrow buried in his back. A large Orc appeared on the wall, growling at the Dwarves below. It wasn't long before more Orc soldiers swarmed over the walls, overwhelming the Elven guards.

Seeing what was happening; Bifur immediately shoved Jasmine down inside the barrel to protect her. Knowing she shouldn't protest, she did as she was asked. The barrel was violently tossed about as he and the other Dwarves fought with the Orcs. Needing some stability she clutched tightly to one of his legs to keep from being slammed against the wooden interior.

She heard Fili call out his brother's name. Worried for her friend; she rose up slightly to peer over the rim. Kili had been struck with an arrow in his right leg and lay helpless above them. She only saw him for a moment before Bifur pushed her back down into the barrel.

Just in the nick of time, more Elves arrived and began to take on the Orcs. Rising up again, she saw Kili's Elf friend and the one that had initially captured them. Before she could be shoved back inside the barrel by Bifur, she lowered herself.

She hadn't been down inside for long, when she heard the metal clanging of the gate as it swung open propelling the barrels forward. She heard Fili call out to his brother again, as he dropped into the barrel next to him. Their barrel and the others shot forward out of the gate and into the wild rapids.

Bifur made her stay down inside the barrel as it tossed and pitched its way along the river. She knew why he was doing it, but she struggled because the water kept pouring inside making it hard to catch her breath. It seemed like their travel down the river went on forever. The shouts of her friends was all she could hear.

She also began to feel sick as the barrel floundered and rolled. The nausea was so bad; she started taking deep breaths to fight it. She also had to stay aware because of the Orc arrows that struck the barrel. She could hear Bifur pulling them out to keep her from getting stuck with one.

Finally, the river had carried them far enough away from the Elves and the advancing Orcs that its motion began to slow. Their journey became smoother.

It was a good thing too because Jasmine couldn't contain her nausea any longer. Popping up from inside the barrel, she gripped the rim and violently projectile vomited. Bifur tenderly held her head as she continued to spit and gag. Having gotten everything out of her system, she took several deep breaths, hoping she was all done.

Thorin looked behind him and said, "Anything behind us?"

Balin responded, "Not that I can see."

Bofur came out of his barrel spitting water before adding, "I think we've out run the Orcs."

"Make for the shore."

As the Dwarves pushed their individual barrels aground, each one climbed out, all except Bombur who needed some help.

Bifur pulled Jasmine out and helped her onto the rocky shoreline. Still feelin woozy, she slowly climbed the rocks until she found one to sit on. He sat down beside her and she put her head on his shoulder. She noticed that Kili seemed to be struggling, even making an awful groan as he pressed a piece of cloth into his wound.

Bofur approached him, concern flooding his face.

Trying to remain stoic, the young Dwarf said, "I'm fine. It's nothing."

Thorin paced across the rocks anxious to keep moving. "On your feet."

Fili turned to his uncle, "Kili's wounded. His leg needs binding."

Thorin turned, "There's an Orc pack on our tail. We need to keep moving."

Balin replied, "To where?"

Bilbo looked at Balin, "To the mountain. We're so close."

"A lake lies between us and that mountain. We have no way to cross it. "

Trying to offer a solution, Bilbo said, "So then we go round."

Upset with the whole situation, Dwalin said, "The Orcs will run us down, as sure as daylight. We've no weapons to defend ourselves."

Thorin said, "Bind his leg, quickly. You have two minutes."

Jasmine looked at Bifur, "What are we going to do now?"

He shrugged his shoulders. He was as clueless as everyone else.

A shadow appeared above Ori as he sat on a nearby rock emptying water from his boots. Turning toward the man casting it, he produced a startled look, just as Dwalin stepped in front of the young Dwarf to protect him.

The man fired his bow striking the branch Dwalin held. Kili also tried to fight back. He picked up a nearby stone intent on throwing it, but the man was faster. Firing a second time it knocked the stone from his hand.

Jasmine, Bifur, Bofur and Bombur all ducked as the arrow ricocheted off the rock and flew in their direction.

"Do it again and you're dead."

Giving the man the once over, Balin cautiously stepped forward. "Excuse me, but um…you're from Lake-town if I'm not mistaken. That barge over there, it wouldn't be available for hire, by any chance?"

The Bowman gave the Dwarf a suspicious stare. Lowering his bow he walked past him and over to his barge. As he started putting the barrels into his boat, he said, "What makes you think I would help you?"

Balin approached him again saying, "Those boots have seen better days…as has that coat. Uh, no doubt you have some hungry mouths to feed." Smiling at the man he continued, "How many bairns?

As the Bowman slid another barrel onto the barge, he said, "A boy and two girls."

Balin continued, "And your wife, I imagine she's a beauty."

The man stiffened up pausing with his work. "Aye…she was." He turned giving Balin a pained look.

Realizing he had struck a nerve, the Dwarf lowered his eyes. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to…"

Listening to the whole exchange, Dwalin couldn't keep from making his thoughts known. "Oh, come on, come on. Enough of the niceties."

Hearing him, the Bowman asked, "What's your hurry?"

"What's it to you?"

Stepping off his barge he went for another barrel. "I would like to know who you are. And what you are doing in these lands."

Trying to keep everything pleasant, Balin said, "We are simple merchants from the Blue Mountains…journeying to see our kin in the Iron Hills."

The Bowman cast his eyes over everyone. He paused briefly when he got to Jasmine. Trying to figure out her story, why she was with the Dwarves, he finally said, "Simple merchants you say?"

Thorin finally addressed the man. "We need food, supplies, weapons...can you help us?"

The Bowman put another barrel on the boat, touching the spots where it was obvious arrows had struck. "I know where these barrels came from."

Thorin snapped back at him. "What of it."

He smirked back at Thorin. "I don't know what business you had with the Elves, but I don't think it ended well. No one enters Lake-town, but by leave of the Master. All his wealth comes from trade with the Woodland Realm. He would see you in irons before risking the wrath of King Thranduil."

He tossed his dock rope at Balin and prepared to leave.

Thorin cocked his head at Balin. "Offer him more."

"I'll wager there are ways to enter that town unseen."

The Bowman continued to prepare his barge for leaving, "Aye…but for that you would need a smuggler."

Balin got in his face and said, "For which we would pay double."

The Bowman paused to think about his offer before finally agreeing to take them on.

O – O – O – O – O – O

After loading all the Dwarves and Jasmine onto the barge he began to guide his boat back towards Lake-town. Most of the Company sat down on the barge, while some stood and watched as the boat moved through the icy waters.

Bofur, Bombur and Bilbo stood at the bow watching as it was guided between old stone pillars.

Frightened that the boat had come to close to one of them, Bofur yelled out. "Watch out!"

The Bowman was paying attention even if the Dwarves thought he was not. He steered by a tall pillar from a by gone age.

Thorin still harboring a load of anger, said, "What are you trying to do, drown us?"

Responding to the Dwarf, he said, "I was born and bred on these waters Master Dwarf. If I wanted to drown you, I would not do it here."

Dwalin's anger at all they had been through, bubbled up. "Oh I've had enough of this lippy Lake-man. I say we throw him over the side and be done with him."

Bilbo decided he needed to speak up. "Bard! His name's Bard."

Bofur asked, "How do you know?"

Bilbo folded his arms answering sarcastically, "Um, I asked him."

Leaning on the side of the barge, Dwalin sneered, "I don't care what he calls himself…I don't like him."

Replying to his brother, Balin said, "You don't have to like him, we simply have to pay him. Come on now lads, turn out your pockets."

Dwalin speaking softly to Thorin said, "How do we know he won't betray us?"

With folded arms, Thorin replied, "We don't."

With all the money laid out on a box, Balin said, "Um, there's a wee problem. We're ten coins short."

Thorin glanced down with folded arms and said, "Gloin…come on…give us what you have."

Irritated at being singled out, Gloin replied, "Don't look to me. I have been bled dry by this venture. What have I seen for my investment? Naught but misery and grief and…" Everyone began to stand and stare off into the fog. As it parted the Lonely Mountain came into view.

Bifur stood staring at the mountain as Jasmine stood beside him. "His eyes were wide; transfixed on the place they had been searching for.

Leaning over to him, she whispered, "Is that Erebor?"

He nodded as he put his arm around her.

Gloin caught sight of the mountain too. Gazing at its majestic peak, he said, "Bless my beard! Take it! Take all of it!" He handed over his coin purse to Balin.

Bilbo gave a slight cough tilting his head towards Bard as he approached them. "The money quick. Give it to me."

Thorin stared the man down. "We will pay you when we get our provisions, but not before."

Trying to impress his sense of urgency, Bard said, "If you value your freedom, you'll do as I say. There are guards ahead."

Everyone turned away from the mountain and faced what was appearing out of the fog in front of them. Small huts and long docks began to show in the distance.

Quickly before they were all seen, the Dwarves and Bilbo climbed into the empty wine barrels and waited. Jasmine remained sitting at the stern of the boat. Being from the World of Men there was no need for her to hide. When they reached one of the docks, she watched as Bard jumped off the boat and walked over to a man. She couldn't hear their conversation, but she kept her eyes glued on them. It was slightly animated as Bard pointed at his barge before the two shook hands.

It didn't take her long to figure out what was about to happen. A couple of large nets filled with fish swung over the barge, releasing the contents into the barrels. She closed her eyes and put one hand over her mouth, not wanting to watch what was about to happen. God! How disgusting this most likely was for all of them. 'My poor Bifur!' she thought.

As Bard got underway again, some of the Dwarves moaned and groaned, not at all happy with their situation. Bard kicked the nearest barrel, "Quiet! We're approaching the Toll Gate."

The boat slowed and came to a stop in front of a small hut. The barge rested at the entrance to Lake-town.

An older man exited from the building saying, "Halt! Goods inspection. Papers please. Oh, it's you Bard."

"Morning Percy."

The man walked over and asked, "Anything to declare?"

Walking to the bow of his boat, he answered, "Nothing. That I am cold and tired, ready for home."

Taking his papers, Percy replied, "You and me both."

As Percy stamped his paperwork he gave one small glance in Jasmine's direction before saying, "There we are…all in order."

He never got a chance to give the papers back as they were snatched from his hand by a creepy little weasel of a man. Sitting up straighter, Jasmine waited to see what would happen next.

Walking in Bard's direction, the man smirked, "Not so fast. Consignment of empty barrels from the Woodland Realm. Only, they're not empty are they Bard." Tossing the papers over his shoulder, he walked toward the barge with a smug look on his face. "If I recall correctly, you're licensed as a bargeman, not a fisherman." Spying Jasmine, he added, "Or a Ferryman. Who is this?"

The Bargeman glared at him. "That's none of your business."

Mr. Creepy replied, "Wrong! It's the Master's business, which makes it my business."

"She is my cousin, visiting from the North."

"Does she have a name?"

Speaking for herself, Jasmine scowled at him. "She does, but I don't have to give it."

"That is where you are wrong."

Glaring at him, she finally replied, "Jasmine." Then added, "And what's wrong with Bard bringing in the fish?"

Ignoring her question, he stepped on the boat to examine the fish for himself.

Bard watched the man, then said, "Oh come on Alfrid, have a heart. People need to eat."

Not yielding an inch, Alfrid said, "These fish are illegal." Turning to the soldiers that had arrived with him, he said, "Empty these barrels over the side."

One of the soldiers replied, "You heard him…into the canal."

As they moved towards the barrels, another one spoke, "Come on! Get a move on."

Jasmine's heart pounded in her chest, terrified that the Company was about to be discovered.

Desperate to stop them, Bard said, "Folk in this town are struggling. Times are hard. Food is scare."

Unmoved, Alfrid said, "That's not my problem."

"And when the people hear the Master is dumping fish back in the lake…when the rioting starts…will it be your problem then?"

Considering the bargeman's words, he threw up his hand. "Stop!"

The soldier's immediately righted the barrels and walked away.

"Ever the people's champion, eh Bard?" Protector of the common folk. You might have their favor now, bargeman, but it won't last."

Percy gave Bard half a smile. "Raise the gate!"

Before he walked away, Alfrid turned back toward Bard, "The Master has his eye on you. You'd do well to remember; we know where you live."

"It's a small town, Alfrid. Everyone knows where everyone lives."

As the bargeman guided his boat through the Toll Gate, Jasmine caught one last look at Alfrid. The man was leering at her, making her skin crawl.

Bard saw it too. "Don't worry, he won't bother you. I'll see to that."

She nodded, "Thank you. Who is he anyway?"

"Nobody of importance – altho' he likes to think he is. He's the Master of Lake-town's flunky."

Nodding, Jasmine said, "He does give off that kind of vibe. He's very creepy."

Bard laughed a bit. "That he is."

Adjusting her seat, she said, "Thank you for helping us. It means a lot."

"Well you are paying me."

"True, but I think you would have helped under normal circumstances. It just seems given what I witnessed, you have to operate under an abundance of caution. Am I correct?"

"You are very observant. If you don't mind me asking, how did you come to be with a company of Dwarves?"

Smiling slightly, Jasmine answered, "It's a long story, one that not everyone would believe. Even now, I sometimes struggle with how it happened. However, having said that, you should know they are kind, honorable souls…ones that I am happy to travel with. So much so, I will be marrying one of them."

Bard seemed stunned by her statement. "Marrying? Truly? And who will have that honor?"

A smile lit up her face. "That would be Master Bifur, with the black and white beard."

"You mean the one with the axe in his head?"

She nodded. "He is the sweetest, kindest, gentlest, most loving, and protective soul, I have ever known. He has a secret beauty. He means everything to me."

Bard listened to her then said, "It's rare to find someone in this life that embodies those qualities. I wish you both nothing but joy."

Bifur was in the barrel closest to where Jasmine was sitting. He could hear the entire conversation between her and Bard. As uncomfortable as his current situation was, he couldn't keep from smiling.

She was his 'sanâzyung.' And she truly has a mysterious soul, that even if it took a lifetime to understand, he would gladly do it.

O – O – O – O – O - O

Khuzdul - bâheluh

English - my friend of all friends

Khuzdul - Jeg uz bezorgan jeg alovath tho thar

English - I am sorry I left you there.

Khuzdul - sanâzyung

English - Perfect love