I Know You're Out There Somewhere

by Greylyn

Jasmine never felt she belonged in the decade to which she was born, the 90's. She loved the music & clothes from the late 60's & 70's. Yet, sometimes she felt the pull of an age long past. After scrapping together money to visit a dream destination, her trip to a Fairy Circle in Ireland brought her into contact with the impossible & with someone beyond her wildest dreams.

9. Each And Every Rising Sun Is Greeted

Chapter 9 – Each And Every Rising Sun Is Greeted By A Lonely One…

O – O – O – O – O

As the morning light finally dawned over Lake-town, the true magnitude of the damage and loss of life became apparent. The wreckage had washed up everywhere…even to the nearby shores near the ruined city of Dale.

Jasmine stood casting her eyes everywhere. This was a tragedy for these people and she felt partially responsible for it. She came with Thorin and his group to reclaim their home, not to cause this devastation.

She and Tauriel walked through the demolished remains with Sigrid and Tilda, trying to locate their father and brother. The two girls cried out in desperation.

Sigrid shouted, "DA!" followed by the frightened screams of Tilda, "DA! DA!"

Jasmine tried to keep from crying at what surrounded her. The ruined lives of everyone involved, the decimated homes, the bodies; some alive, some dying, some dead. It was horrifying.

She stood taking several deep breaths, trying hard not to lose it when she felt a hand on her shoulder. Turning, she looked into the caring eyes of Bofur.

She followed him over to the boat the Dwarves were preparing to take over to the Mountain.

Giving her a melancholy smile, he said, "You understand why you're stayin here, right lass?"

She nodded. "I do. I don't have to like it, but I do."

Bofur continued, "Bifur didn't want you anywhere near the Mountain ta begin with. Given all that has occurred, I think its best you remain here until we find out what has happened. We know the dragon is dead, but we don't know what else may have gone on inside Erebor."

She nodded. "I know, but I can't help feeling scared for ya'll."

Bofur nodded back as he hugged her.

Turning to 'Oin, she gave him a hug. He smiled. "Take care, lass."

"You also. I hope I see you soon."

As she and Fili hugged, he said, "You are staying with the girls to help them find their father and brother, yes?"

"Yes, until then. After that…" she shrugged.

"Once we find the rest of the Company you know Bifur will come for you. Don't fret."

"I know." she smiled. She put her hand on the courting braid in her hair.

She turned back to Bofur. "Tell Bifur I'm alright. Let him know how much I love and miss him."

Bofur pressed his forehead against hers, "I will lass, Stay safe. We will come for you soon."

She nodded, fighting back the tears that threatened to fall.

As she made her way off the beach, she passed by Kili who was speaking to Tauriel.

"Take care and be safe, Kili."

He smiled and nodded as she walked by.

He turned back to Tauriel. "Tauriel…Amrâlimê."

Looking back at him, she seemed confused by his words. "I don't know what that means."

A slow smile spread across his face. "I think you do."

She stepped toward him on the verge of replying, when she suddenly stiffened up, saying instead in Elvish, "My Lord Legolas."

Legolas stood a few steps behind her and replied also in Elvish, "Take your leave of the Dwarf. You are needed elsewhere."

Kili stared at the blonde Elf, not at all happy he was here.

Tauriel turned her sad eyes back to Kili.

Realizing she was going to follow Legolas, he began to slowly back away. As he turned to leave, he made a sudden decision and came back to her. Taking Tauriel's hand, he pressed something into her palm, wrapping her fingers around it.

As he held her hand close to his heart, he said, "Keep it. As a promise."

Nodding, but keeping his eyes on hers, he backed away before turning to go to the boat.

Opening her hand, she realized what he had given her…the ruin stone.

Fighting to hold back the tears filling her eyes, she watched as he and the other Dwarves rowed away. Turning one last time to gaze in her direction, he smiled as he and the others rowed away.

Watching as the small boat disappeared across the lake, Jasmine couldn't stop that same cold chill from rippling down her back again. Something was coming, she knew it. And she couldn't stop the nagging feeling it would be a long time before she saw her beloved or the other members of the Company again.

Turning to Bard's two daughters, she said, "Lets go find your Da and Bain."

There were so many people that needed help and so many that would never need help again. Her heart ached for what happened to them and it was very hard having to walk through the carnage trying to find two people.

A scuffle nearby, suddenly broke out among the survivors. The Master's former deputy Alfrid and one of the local women began to fight over blankets. Jasmine was going to keep the girls away until she thought she saw someone familiar. She guided the girls over to have a look. As they got nearer, she could hear what was being said.

Alfrid tried to wrench a blanket from the woman's hands, but she fought back. "You're a sneak thief more like. I'll be dead before I answer to the likes of you."

She turned to walk away, but Alfrid seized her shoulder flinging her around to face him. Raising his hand to strike her, he said, "Maybe that can be arranged."

Before he could carry through with his threat, his hand was grabbed. Turning to find out who had stopped him, he saw the former Bargeman.

Bard stepped close to his ear, saying, "I wouldn't go turning on your own, Alfrid. Not now."

He spun the man away only to have his son Bain kick his legs out from under him. Alfrid landed hard on his back.

Tilda burst from the crowd, followed closely by Sigrid.

Bard's face filled with joy. "Come here."

His daughters raced into his arms, as Jasmine watched them, overwhelmed with happiness at their reunion.

Bard hugged both girls tightly. "It's alright darling."

As he continued to hug his girls, Percy came out of the crowd shouting, "It was Bard! He killed the dragon! I saw it with me own eyes. He brought the beast down! Shot him dead with a Black Arrow."

The crowd cheered wildly as the Lake-town survivors surrounded Bard and his children. Multiple 'thank yous' filled the air from those around him. He seemed uncomfortable acknowledging what he had done.

Trying to get back into the good graces of the towns folk, Alfrid came forward and latched on to Bard's arm, hoisting it into the air. "All hail to the Dragon-Slayer! All hail King Bard!

Annoyed, Bard ripped his arm from Alfrid's grasp.

"I have said it many times…this is a man of noble stock. A born leader!"

Now angry, he said, "Do no call me that. I'm not the Master of this town." Raising his voice, he shouted, "Where is he? Where's the Master?"

The woman Alfrid had fought with, Hilda said, "Halfway down the Anduin with all our coin, I don't doubt." She pointed at the former deputy. "You would know. You helped him empty the treasury."

His eyes enlarged as he denied her accusation. "No. I tried to stop him. I begged. I pleaded."

The crowd tightened around him as accusations from others began to fly.

Shouts of "Liar!" filled the air.

Disavowing his connections, he shouted, "I said…Master, no! Think of the children."

Reaching over he grabbed poor Tilda holding her in front of him like a shield. "Will nobody think of the children?"

Aggravated, Tilda raised her leg and stomped on his foot, making him release the young girl.

Someone shouted, "To the tree with him!"

Alfrid was grabbed and hoisted into the air by the people. He screamed out in terror at what was surely going to be his death.

Jasmine was not a resident of Lake-town, she was just a visitor. It was apparent a lot of anger had festered under the surface over things done by this man and the former Master. She came forward putting her arms around Sigrid and Tilda, making the decision that they should not have to witness what was surely coming. She was about to lead them away until their father came forward.

Bard stepped into the fray, "Enough! Let him go! Let him go!"

The man was dropped to the ground with a thud.

Bard turned and stared at everyone around him. "Look around you! Have you not had your fill of death! Winter is upon us. We must look to our own. To the sick and the helpless, those who can stand, tend to the wounded. Those who have strength left, follow me. We must salvage what we can."

Hilda came forward and asked, "What then? What'll we do then?"

Bard turned to her, "We find shelter."

He came over to where Jasmine stood with his children. He silently thanked her for helping his daughters. Then he walked past with a large group of men following.

O – O – O – O – O

Bofur, 'Oin, Fili and Kili had reached the shores below the Lonely Mountain and began their trek up its slopes. It took some time as Kili's wound was still healing and they had to make allowances for his slow pace.

They finally arrived at what use to be the entrance to Erebor, but now the front edifice was a ruin. A large dragon sized hole shattered the stone walls showing where the beast exited.

The group stood silently staring at the damage and at each other before racing inside the once magnificent halls. After coming inside the four Dwarves paused, staring around the ruined interior of the silent gallery.

Bofur finally spoke, "Hello!"

His voice echoed through-out the vast hall. After waiting a moment, he spoke again.

"Bombur?"

"Bifur?"

"Anybody?"

Not receiving a response, he rushed forward, followed closely by his companions. He was beginning to shake. Had anyone survived?

As the group traveled further into the cavernous remains of the once mighty city, they were proceeding down a set of stairs, when a voice rang out. One they recognized.

Bilbo came sprinting towards them from another stone walkway. "Wait! Wait!"

'Oin turned to his friends, "It's Bilbo!"

Happy their friend had survived, Bofur said, "He's alive!"

Bilbo came barreling at them, waving his arms. He seemed to be in a panic. "Stop! Stop! Stop!" Once he found them, he lowered his voice. "You need to leave. We all need to leave."

Confused, Bofur stared at the Hobbit. "We only just got here."

"I've tried talking, but he won't listen."

Still confused 'Oin asked, "What do you mean, laddie?"

"Thorin!" he said with some emphasis. "Thorin! Thorin! He's been down there for days. He doesn't sleep. He barely eats. He's not been himself. Not at all." clearing his throat, he continued, "It's this place." He points his finger skyward. "I think a sickness lies on it."

Fili walked around the Hobbit staring down into the lower hall.

Kili asked, "Sickness? What kind of sickness?"

Not wanting to wait any longer, Fili dashed around Bilbo and rushed down the stairs.

Bilbo tried to stop him. "Fili! Fili! Fili!" He raced down after him, followed quickly by Kili, 'Oin and Bofur.

Fili came to a stop once he reached the lower landing that overlooked the floor below. His eyes went wide. He was completely stunned. The others caught up with him and came to stand at his side. They all stared in complete silence at the scene below.

Vast amounts of gold, jewels and other precious things littered the floor. None of the four Dwarves had ever seen anything like it. A voice suddenly echoed from below, drawing their eyes to one spot on the floor.

"Gold." Thorin appeared out of one of the entrances, gazing at the treasure that surrounded him. "Gold beyond measure. Beyond sorrow…and grief"

Realizing he had an audience, he cast his eyes upward. "Behold the great treasure hoard of Thror."

Fili didn't know what to think. His uncle was indeed acting strangely, as Bilbo had said. He watched silently.

Without warning, Thorin reared back and threw something in his direction. Fili caught a large ruby gemstone.

"Welcome my sister-sons" he said spreading his arms wide, "to the Kingdom of Erebor."

After speaking, he turned and disappeared back into one of the nearby rooms. The four Dwarves looked at each other speechless until Bilbo said he would take them to the rest of the group.

They walked into a large chamber where the members of the Company were hold up. Upon seeing their friends, joyous laughter rang out.

Bofur threw his arms wide. "Balin!"

Dwalin came running giving him a bear hug.

Nori yelled when he saw Kili, shouting his name before throwing his arms around him.

Bombur also rushed from another room, followed closely by Bifur. The two brothers embraced enthusiastically.

Bofur turned to his cousin and received a warm greeting. Stepping away from him, Bifur asked, "Bakurn jr hanja? jeg gotek jala hane."

Bofur answered, "She's still there. She's safe. We didn't know what we would find here. So I left her with Bard's family."

"Hanja jr eath?" he asked.

Bofur nodded. "She is. She misses you. Told me to say how much she loves you."

Bifur wiped away a tear that threatened to fall. His relief was visible. "Hjertr ur zkrinn bjuttagur. Jeg vrathi ilv farurm rir hane, dokk galjeva't."

Quietly, he asked, "Does it have to do with Thorin?"

He nodded.

"What is wrong with him cousin?"

Bifur shook his head and shrugged. "Jeg gotek bekna. Han ol hverth etta igur zith eth verold avor Smaug…hini slaliggro mju.

Bofur sighed. He was extremely concerned now.

Just as he was about to make another comment, Thorin entered.

"Everyone must come out into the hall. The Arkenstone must be found. I need everyone searching."

Bofur looked at his cousin and raised his eyebrows.

O – O – O – O – O – O – O

Thorin had the Dwarves spread out, digging through the mounds of gold in search of the precious stone.

Thorin stood in an upper gallery watching. "Any sign of it?"

"Nothing yet."

"Keep searching." Thorin replied.

"That jewel could be anywhere."

"The Arkenstone is in these halls. Find it!"

"You heard him. Keep looking." Dwalin stated.

"All of you! No one rests until it is found." Thorin shouted.

Bilbo, for his part, stood away from the Company as they dug to find the valued stone. He walked away from them where he could be alone with his thoughts. He ended up going to an upper floor in the Hall of the Kings near where Smaug had broken out. He was troubled. Thorin troubled him. He was very worried for his friend. Staring around him to make sure he was indeed alone he sat down on a piece of stone. As he sat there, he heard the voice of Smaug once more speaking to him in his head…

'I'm almost tempted to let you take it, if only to see Oakenshield suffer…watch it destroying him…watch it corrupt his heart and drive him mad.'

Looking around him once more, he pulled the precious stone from his coat, staring at it, turning it around in his hands. He had promised to find it…and he had, but now he was conflicted about returning it to Thorin.

O – O – O – O – O – O – O

Jasmine helped anyone who needed it. She and Bard's daughters collected items that they felt could be easily carried. She couldn't stop that cold feeling from returning again and again. Still, she kept at it.

She had found some things and started putting them in a pile when she heard Bard say, "Take only what you need. We have a long march ahead."

Looking up she saw him speaking with the Elf Legolas. He asked, "Where will you go?"

"There's only one place."

Creepy little Alfrid was also near…not helping, just standing and watching. "The Mountain. You are a genius sire. We can take refuge inside the Mountain. It might smell a bit of dragon, but the women can clean that up." He gave Jasmine an unpleasant stare. "It'll be safe and warm and dry and full of stores…bedding, clothing…the odd bit of gold."

Bard was having none of it, replying, "What gold is in that Mountain is cursed. We will take only what was promised to us. Only what we need to rebuild our lives." He chucked the wood he had been gathering into Alfrid's arms before storming off. It only took the former deputy a moment to toss it into the arms of an older woman near him.

Wanting to gather as much information as she could, Jasmine followed at a safe distance so she could continue to hear Bard and Legolas speaking.

The Elf spoke to Bard who had walked past him. "News of the death of Smaug will have spread through the lands."

Jasmine could tell this troubled the former Bargeman. "Aye."

Legolas approached him saying, "Others will now look to the Mountain for its wealth, for its position."

Bard turned to him. "What is it you know?"

Legolas looked in the direction of Erebor. "Nothing for certain. It's what I fear may come."

His last words only made stronger the fear that had begun to creep over her. Jasmine turned to look at the Mountain. Taking a deep breath, she closed her eyes for moment, thinking of Bifur. 'Please let him be safe.'

O – O – O – O – O – O

Bifur had finally sat down after hours of searching for the Arkenstone. His back ached, his knees hurt from crawling in and around the piles of gold, and he was hungry. Whether Thorin wanted him to or not he was taking a rest.

It wasn't long before he was joined by Bofur who plopped down beside him on the stairs. He took a deep breath before pulling out his pipe. "I see you decided to stop as well."

Bifur nodded. He was letting his thoughts wander. He was missing Jasmine terribly and honestly wanted to be away from all this. What had started as a quest to reclaim a homeland had spiraled into something else. Something was wrong with Oakenshield. He just didn't know what.

It wasn't hard to hear the argument taking place in the throne room not far from where the two were seated. Thorin's voice echoed throughout the hall. Dwalin, Balin and Bilbo were all inside telling him about the latest search.

"And yet, it is still not found!" reverberated around the area.

Bifur looked at his cousin, his eyes wide.

Bofur nodded as he took a puff on his pipe.

"Aye," he whispered.

Another blast of words rebounded throughout. "AM I NOT THE KING?"

Bofur looked at Bifur saying quietly, "We are in for some trouble cousin. I wish it were not so, but I know you can feel it coming like I do."

He nodded. "Mot stjogrond dezezz jr denthar hanja monmur ath jooki ynni lurlom avor etta"

"Aye, I understand. Hopefully it won't happen."

Bifur sighed. His cousin's words didn't help the strange thoughts he had been having of late. In some weird way, he wondered if he was feeling what Jasmine was feeling. Could their connection to each other be that deep?

O – O – O – O – O – O

Jasmine walked behind Bard and his family into the ruins of Dale. An eerie silence hung over what once must have been a magnificent city. The worst part was seeing the charred remains of the former residents scattered about in the snow. It reminded her of images she had seen of Pompeii. How those killed by the volcano had died. Plaster casts were made to preserve them – where they fell, but this had a strangely similar feel.

She heard the gasps and cries of the other people entering behind her, possibly seeing the destruction up close for the very first time. The fractured remains of buildings, a twisted fountain and what looked to be the remnants of a children's carousel. She couldn't stop a few tears from falling. The utter destruction of this place surrounded all of them.

Bard stood off to the side directing his people further into the city. "Come on. Keep moving."

Alfrid had split off and gone up some steps. He began yelling, "Sire! Sire! Up here!"

Bard went quickly up the same steps to where he was.

Alfrid was pointing. "Look, sire! The braziers are lit."

Bard paused to gaze over at the Mountain. "So, the Company of Thorin Oakenshield survived."

"Survived? You mean there's a bunch of Dwarves in there with all that gold?"

Bard turned back to him as he started to leave, ""I shouldn't worry, Alfrid. There's gold enough in that Mountain for all"

Leaning over the railing, he shouted down to the people, "Make camp here tonight! Find what shelter you can. Get some fires going."

Turning back he said, "Alfrid. You'll take the night watch."

Not happy, he slunk off to carry out the duty none the less.

Bard came down to where Jasmine was getting a fire started in a small enclosed house for him and his children.

Bard took her aside saying softly, "I don't know if this will ease your mind, but fires are lit in the Mountain which means there are survivors. Hopefully Master Bifur is amongst them."

She smiled a little. "Thank you for telling me. I wish I knew more, but this news is better than none at all."

She went back to helping the girls set up some place to sleep tonight.

O – O – O – O – O – O

Inside the Mountain, Thorin was pushing his group to pile up stones at the entrance that had been knocked down after the dragon's exit. Stone upon stone was lifted and stacked…getting ever higher as they did.

"I want this fortress made safe by sunup. This Mountain was hard-won. I will not see it taken again."

Fili had been helping Bilbo pull a cart with stone pieces in it when he dropped the end. Frustrated, he spoke to his uncle. "The people of Lake-town have nothing. They came to us in need. They have lost everything."

Unmoved by his nephew's words, he stared back, "Do not tell me what they have lost. I know well enough their hardship." Turning away he stared across at the fires now burning on the parapets of Dale. "Those who have lived through dragon fire should rejoice. They have much to be grateful for."

Turning back to the others, he shouted, "More stone. Bring more stone to the gate!"

The pile of rocks grew ever higher.

While Bifur complied with Thorin's wishes, inside he was a mess. He knew Jasmine was close and it was tearing him up inside that he could not go to her. That same awful feeling was clawing at him and he didn't know what to do. Each time he piled a stone on the gate, he would stare across at the fires, knowing she was out there. 'Mahal please protect her.'

O – O – O – O – O – O

The following morning dawned on another cold day. Jasmine had a restless night. She slept some, she also found herself pacing. Perhaps it was because she was so close to Mountain, maybe because of the odd feelings she had been having. Whatever the reason, she went about trying to help who she could. She had to admit she was hungry, but food was scarce and she pushed her hunger away, trying to concentrate on working with the wounded.

The grumbling had started at first light.

"These children are starving."

"We need food."

"We won't last three days."

Bard's friend Percy was talking to him. "Bard, we don't have enough."

Bard passed by him and replied, "Do what you can, Percy"

Percy speaking to those around him, "It'll be all right. Don't worry."

A woman said, "We need more water."

"The children, the wounded, and the women come first." Bar said as he continued up some stairs. "Good Morning Alfrid. What news from the night watch?"

Alfrid seemed sleepy as Bard walked by him. "All quiet, sire. Not much to report. Nothing gets past me."

Bard stepped out into a sunlit landing responding, "Except an army of Elves, it would seem."

A bit stunned by their presence, Bard none the less walked out, making his way through them. Once he exited into another section, he saw King Thranduil riding up. "My Lord Thranduil, we did not look to see you here."

"I heard you needed aid." He replied

A large wagon entered the area full of everything the people of Lake-town needed. The towns folk surrounded the wagon and between them and the Elves began unloading the supplies.

Grateful, Bard smiled at Thranduil, "You have saved us. I do not know how to thank you."

Thranduil stared down at the Bargeman. "Your gratitude is misplaced. I did not come on your behalf. I came to reclaim something of mine."

Jasmine approached to help with the supplies just in time to hear the Elf King's statement. She stared up at him astride his mount, a large elk, wondering what was coming now.

Thranduil started marching his army out of the Dale ruins. Bard went running after him. Concerned about what was getting ready to go down, Jasmine followed.

"Wait! Please wait!" Bard shouted after him. "You would go to war over a handful of gems?"

The heirlooms of my people are not lightly forsaken."

Bard tried to reason with him. "We are allies in this. My people also have a claim upon the riches in that Mountain. Let me speak with Thorin."

Jasmine held her breath, waiting for the Elf Kings answer.

He finally turned to Bard saying, "You would try to reason with the Dwarf?"

"To avoid war? Yes."

Thranduil inclined his head as his way of telling the Bargeman to carry on. He was given a horse by the Elves to ride over to the Mountain.

After Bard mounted, Jasmine looked up at him, "Please, I feel as if this is all spinning out of control. If you see Bifur, bring word back to me that he is well. Can you do that?"

Bard nodded. "Don't worry. I'll return with good news

Watching as he galloped off, Jasmine shook her head. She wasn't so sure of the last part and wanted it to be true, yet…"

Alfrid approached Jasmine from behind, getting uncomfortably close to her. Putting his lips close to her ear, he whispered, "So are you still wishing for that Dwarf to come back? It won't happen you know. You should be with a real man, not a runt."

Whirling around, she glared at him. "The only real man I know is in that Mountain…and he is coming back for me." Turning and stomping off, she said over her shoulder, "Bifur is my future husband. You would do well to remember that."

Alfrid watched her leave, leering and licking his lips.

O – O – O – O – O – O – O

The members of the Company were putting the finishing touches on the stone gate when Thorin came striding between them, heading towards it.

"Come on!" He said as everyone followed behind him.

The sight that greeted all of them took some by surprise. The ruined walls of Dale were lined with Elves. They were everywhere.

Riding down the path, approaching the newly built gate, everyone saw a rider on a white horse. It didn't take them long to recognize Bard from Lake-town.

He slowed the horse as he reached the front of Erebor, Shouting up to them, he said, "Hail, Thorin, son of Thrain. We are glad to find you alive beyond hope."

"Why do you come to the gates of the King under the Mountain armed for war?"

In response, Bard replied, "Why does the King under Mountain fence himself in like a robber in his hold?"

"Perhaps it is because I am expecting to be robbed"

Bard answered back, "My lord, we have not come to rob you, but seek fair settlement. Will you not speak with me?"

Giving a slight head nod, Bard dismounted and approached the gate. Bard looked up just as a large black raven flew over his head. Not sure why that was, he stepped up to a hole in the rock that allowed him to see through to the other side.

Thorin spoke quietly from inside, "I'm listening."

"On behalf of the people of Lake-town, I ask that you honor your pledge. A share of the treasure so that they might rebuild their lives."

Showing little to no emotion, he replied, "I will not treat with any man while an armed host lies before my door."

Trying to speak with reason, Bard said, "That armed host will attack this Mountain if we do not come to terms."

Shaking his head, Thorin said, "And your threats do not sway me"

"What of your conscience? Does it not tell you that our cause is just? My people offered you help. And in return, you brought upon them only ruin and death."

Aggravated, Thorin countered, "When did Lake-town come to our aid, but for the promise of rich reward?"

"A bargain was struck!"

"A bargain?" Thorin shouted back. "What choice did we have but to barter our birthright for blankets and food? To ransom our future in exchange for our freedom…you call that a fair trade? Tell me Bard the Dragon-Slayer why should I honor such terms?"

Looking down the hole at Thorin, he stated, "Because you gave us your word. Does that mean nothing?"

Thorin turned away from him leaning his back against the stone. When he looked up, the members of the Company all stood in front on him, stone-faced, awaiting his answer.

Bifur stood behind Fili and Kili and it took all his strength not to shout at Thorin. To let him know he was being a fool.

Thorin had already decided his answer. "Be gone! Ere our arrows fly!"

Angry that Thorin could not be swayed, Bard smacked his hand against the stone and walked away.

Everyone went hurriedly up the stairs to watch as he rode away.

Upset, Bilbo asked, "What are you doing? You cannot go to war."

Still watching Bard ride away, Thorin said, "This does not concern you."

"Excuse me but in case you haven't noticed, there is an army of Elves out there. Not to mention several hundred angry fishermen. We are, in fact, outnumbered."

He gave Bilbo a smug stare, "Not for much longer."

Confused, Bilbo asked, "What does that mean?"

"It means, Master Baggins, you should never underestimate Dwarves." Turning to the others, Thorin said, "We have reclaimed Erebor. Now we defend it."

As he walked away down the stairs, the Dwarves stared after him, not moving. Balin put his hand to his face, trying to stem the emotions he was feeling.

Bifur turned watching as Bard rode the horse back to the city ruins. His heart was hurting. This situation was about to get very messy because of Thorin. He only hoped the Bargeman would let Jasmine know he was alive.

O – O – O – O – O – O

Jasmine had watched from one of the walls as Bard went to Erebor. Now that he was returning, she rushed down the stairs to speak to him. She made it just in time to hear his words to Thranduil, "He will give us nothing."

"Such a pity. Still you tried."

Bard was upset, "I do not understand. Why? Why would he risk war?"

Thranduil's face never changed expression. "It is fruitless to reason with them. They understand only one thing." He pulled his sword, staring at it. "We attack at dawn. Are you with us?"

Bard turned and glanced behind him one more time. He slowly followed the Elf King back inside the city. As he passed Jasmine he paused to speak to her.

"Did you see him?" she asked softly.

"Yes, I saw Master Bifur briefly as he stood upon the wall. He seemed well."

"What happened with Thorin?"

Bard replied, "I wish I could give you better news, but Thorin has refused to fulfill his promise and Thranduil is determined to reclaim his jewels. War is coming."

Jasmine eyes went wide. "Are you sure? Is there no other way?"

He shook his head. "He would not even discuss it. I'm sorry."

Jasmine turned away, walking back to where Bard's family was staying. Tears began to flow. Under her breath, she kept repeating, "Not like this. Not like this. I can't lose him like this."

She went to where she had set up her bedroll. Sitting down, she took several deep breaths, trying to calm the pounding of her heart. Closing her eyes, she wiped at the tears that kept coming.

Sigrid came over sitting next to her. She gently touched Jasmine's arm. "I heard what is happening…I'm so sorry."

Jasmine opened her eyes and looked at the young girl. "Thank you. I just don't know what to do. I feel so helpless."

Sigrid put her arms around Jasmine hugging her. "If my Da has any sway over the Elf King, he will try and use it. He does not want this war, you must know that?"

"I do, else he wouldn't have tried so hard to stop it by talking to Thorin."

Still…inside she knew a fight was coming and Jasmine knew there wasn't a damn thing she could do to prevent it.

O – O – O – O – O – O

Bifur along with the other members of the Company went to the weapons room and began to prepare to defend the Mountain. Bifur chose the armor he would be wearing, but his heart wasn't in it. He watched his cousin's face and realized Bofur wasn't very happy with the turn of events either.

While he had pledged his allegiance to help Thorin take back Erebor, this was never part of that bargain. He could tell that Balin was troubled as was the Hobbit. He was unsure how the others felt. Since the death of the dragon it felt as if everything was coming undone. He wished he knew where this would all lead.

Thorin stood away from the others, holding a Mithril shirt in his hand. Bilbo appeared at the end of the corridor near some of the armor sets that lined it.

"Master Baggins, come here."

Bilbo slowly approached Thorin at the end of the hall.

Thorin held up the shirt to him. "You're going to need this. Put it on."

The Hobbit hesitated for a moment before removing his coat.

"This vest is made of silver steel. Mithril it was called by my forebears." He helped Bilbo put it on. "No blade can pierce it."

The Hobbit slid the shirt on and then adjusted it as he turned to Thorin. "I look absurd. "I'm not a warrior, I'm a Hobbit."

The members of the Company all stopped what they were doing and watched what was happening. No one said a word.

Thorin looked at Bilbo saying, "It is a gift. A token of our friendship."

Bilbo's face twitched slightly, but showed little emotion to his words.

"True friends are hard to come by." Thorin snatched the Hobbit's shoulder and hurriedly walked him away from the others.

Bifur stared after the two, wondering what was being said. The same strange feelings he had been having for days took hold of him. He took a couple of deep breaths and went back to choosing his armor.

Bofur stood close to him and whispered, "Nothing good will come of all this. Still we gave our word to help. My biggest fear is what is coming next."

Bifur nodded. He felt the same.

O – O – O – O – O – O

Deciding she needed to take a walk to clear her head, Jasmine told Sigrid she was going out and would be back soon. She had no destination in mind, just wanted to get some air. Truthfully, a part of her wanted to see what was being done in anticipation of the coming fight.

As she walked around, she couldn't help seeing all the preparations underway to take on the Dwarves. Her heart hammered painfully in her chest. She stopped walking after passing a forge that was repairing several large swords. She took several deep breaths trying to steady her nerves.

That was when she heard a familiar voice.

"Let me through! Make way!" Turning, she saw Gandalf thunder past her on a large horse. The Wizard was back.

Running as fast as she could to keep up with him, she found him not far ahead dismounted in front of a building Bard had been using. Startled by the amount of Elves and Men preparing for a battle, he searched around him for someone to speak with.

"Gandalf!" Jasmine shouted.

Turning he saw her and smiled, "Ah Jasmine. It is good to see you again."

She gave a wane smile. "I'm so glad you're back. I wish it was under better circumstances. Maybe you can talk some sense into him. He won't listen to anyone else."

"Who won't listen? What has happened?"

Before she could answer, Alfrid appeared, being his usual creepy self. "No! No! Oi! You! Pointy hat! Yes. You. We don't want no tramps, beggars, nor vagabonds here. We got enough trouble without the likes of you. Off you go. On your horse."

Gandalf turned glaring at the man before taking a few steps in his direction. Jasmine followed behind him as she also glared at the creep.

"Who's in charge here?" the Wizard shouted.

Bard suddenly appeared. "Who is asking?"

Jasmine stepped forward. "Please you need to speak with him. This is Gandalf the Grey."

Bard nodded. "Come this way."

Gandalf and Jasmine followed Bard. She knew he was probably taking them to see Thranduil.

The Elf King had setup a fair-sized tent pavilion not too far from where they were standing. Jasmine hoped she would be allowed to enter. Gandalf had told her briefly as she followed him that war was coming…and it was going to be bad.

O – O – O – O – O – O

"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."

Jasmine put her hand to her face, massaging her forehead. She had developed such a headache. She wasn't sure how much more she could take.

Bard's face was incredulous as he asked, "What are you talking about?"

Unfortunately, Thranduil didn't buy into what Gandalf had said. He stood up from his throne and walked over to a nearby table. "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." He poured some wine into two goblets handing one to the Bargeman and walked away with the other. Turning to look at the Wizard he added, "But sometimes a storm is just a storm."

Gandalf tried to impress on the Elf King that what he was saying was true. "Not this time. Armies of Orcs are on the move. These are fighters. They have been bred for war. Our enemy has summoned his full strength.

Still unimpressed, Thranduil asked, "Why show his hand now?"

"Because we forced him! We forced him when the Company of Thorin set out to reclaim their homeland. The Dwarves were never meant to reach Erebor. Azog the Defiler was sent to kill them." Gandalf left the tent and walked out to a ruined terrace. Thranduil, Bard and Jasmine followed him. "His master seeks control of the Mountain. Not just for the treasure within, but for where it lies, its strategic position. This is the gateway to reclaiming the lands of Angmar in the North. If that fell kingdom should rise again Rivendell, Lorien, the Shire even Gondor itself will fall."

Thranduil looked at Gandalf, asking, "These Orc armies you speak of Mithrandir, where are they?"

Gandalf could see that the Elf King still did not believe. He had run out of words to explain the situation.

Jasmine cast her eyes at all three trying hard to decide what would happen next. She was terribly frightened, more so than she had ever been.

The others returned to the tent, but she stood looking across the wide open plain between Dale and Erebor.

"If you can hear me Bifur," she said softly, "Please take care of yourself. I love you so much. I hope you and I will be together again soon."

O – O – O – O – O – O

As darkness fell over the ruins of Dale, Gandalf and Thranduil continued to argue about the approaching Orc army. Jasmine couldn't understand why the Elf King refused to listen. His rift with the Dwarves was something he just refused to let go of.

"Since when has my counsel counted for so little? What do you think I'm trying to do?" Gandalf maintained.

"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." The Elf King answered.

The Wizard puffed hard on his pipe, upset with what her felt was Thranduil's stubbornness.

The Elf King stood and walked past him. "You started this, Mithrandir. You will forgive me if I finish it."

Gandalf stared after him as he continued to the tent entrance. "Are the archers in position?"

His captain nodded, "Yes, my lord."

"Give the order – If anything moves on that Mountain…kill it. The Dwarves are out of time."

Out of patience with everyone, Jasmine finally spoke, "You can't do that. The others that are in there may not completely agree with him. You can't hurt them just because you are pissed off at Thorin."

The Elf King turned to stare at her, "What I do is within my rights."

"How so?" she shouted. "You are just angry because you can't retrieve a freakin necklace. You're talking about possibly killing the love of my life over some jewelry."

He walked past her saying, "That is not my problem."

Gandalf turned to Bard saying, "Bowman! Do you agree with this? Is gold so important to you? Would you buy it with the blood of Dwarves?"

Bard answered, "It won't come to that. This is a fight they cannot win."

Out of nowhere, Bilbo appeared. "That won't stop them. You think the Dwarves will surrender? They won't. They will fight to the death to defend their own."

Jasmine couldn't stop from running to the Hobbit and throwing her arms around him. "Bilbo!"

He returned the hug. Softly he said, "We need to talk later."

She nodded.

Gandalf also turned. "Bilbo Baggins."

O – O – O

"If I'm not mistaken," Thranduil stated as he sat down on his throne, "this is the Halfling who stole the keys to my dungeons from under the nose of my guards."

Bilbo pondered his answer before saying, "Yes. Sorry about that."

Bard seemed to be amused by his response.

Bilbo walked up to the table in the middle of the tent. "I came to give you this." He placed an object in the center and slowly uncovered it. It was the Arkenstone.

A stunned Thranduil approached the table. "The Heart of the Mountain. The King's Jewel.

Everyone gathered around the stone.

Bard stared down at the jewel. "And worth a king's ransom." Looking at the Hobbit, he asked, "How is this yours to give?"

In a matter of fact tone, Bilbo said, "I took it as my 14th share of the treasure."

Why would you do this? You owe us no loyalty."

The Hobbit shook his head. "I'm not doing it for you. I know that Dwarves can be obstinate and pigheaded and difficult. They're suspicious and secretive with the worst manners you can possibly imagine, but they are also brave and kind and loyal to a fault. I've grown very fond of them, and I would save them if I can. Now 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."

Thranduil and Bard exchanged looks, but said nothing.

O – O – O – O

Bilbo, Gandalf and Jasmine walked away from Thranduil tent.

"Rest up tonight. You must leave on the morrow." Gandalf said.

"What?"

"Get as far away from here as possible. Take Jasmine with you."

"I'm not leaving." Bilbo said.

"Neither am I…not without Bifur." Jasmine said terrified at the prospect.

Bilbo stared up the Wizard. "You picked me as the 14th man. I'm not leaving the Company now."

Gandalf gazed down at the Hobbit in return. "There is no Company. Not anymore. And I don't like to think what Thorin will do when he finds out what you're done."

Bilbo fired back. "I'm not afraid of Thorin."

The Wizard whirled back staring at the Hobbit. "Well 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. Almost all."

Jasmine looked at the Wizard. "Are you saying that everyone in there has been affected by this Dragon-sickness?"

"It's possible."

No…I refuse to believe that Bifur would fall under its influence."

"My lady, as I've already said, it can seep into the hearts of anyone…even Bifur."

She continued to shake her head, unbelieving.

Gandalf saw Alfrid and said, "You there. Find this Hobbit a bed and fill his belly with hot food. He's earned it."

As Bilbo turned to walk away, the Wizard grabbed Alfrid's arm. "Hey…keep an eye on him. If he should try to leave, tell me."

Bilbo turned to Jasmine, "Follow me…we need to talk."

She followed Bilbo as Alfrid came up to them, "Move it! Stupid Hobbit."

O – O – O – O – O – O

"How is Bifur?" Jasmine asked as Bilbo sat on his bed eating.

"He's fine. He's extremely worried about you. And despite what Gandalf said, he does not seem affected by the Gold in the Mountain. Truly the only one who does is Thorin. He's not been the same since we arrived there."

Jasmine wiped away some tears, relieved to hear his words.

Bilbo looked at her, "You should know, I'm going back…before it gets light."

"Why?"

"I need to be there. Thorin is my friend…they all are and I can't abandon them no matter what."

Jasmine gave a heavy sigh. "I understand. I wish I could go with you. Since you've decided to return, would you take a message to Bifur for me? I'll write it. If you can find a way to deliver it to him without him realizing that you left the Mountain and then came back, I would really appreciate it. I don't want to put you in danger."

"Absolutely!" the Hobbit nodded. "And don't worry about me, I shall be fine."

"Good! I'll be back shortly."

Bilbo went back to eating. He didn't have much time.

O – O – O – O – O – O

Bilbo made his way back to Mountain before the rising of the sun. He was able to slip back in the same way he left. After passing Dori who was on guard, he cautiously ran down the stairs and made his way to the rooms where the Dwarves were sleeping.

He pulled the letter from his coat that Jasmine had written. She was in tears when she gave it to him. He promised he would be sure Bifur received it.

The members of the Company occupying this room were all asleep, snoring away. Bilbo found Bifur lying on his side with his hand outstretched on the bed. He carefully placed the letter beside it so it would be the first thing he saw when he awoke.

After delivering it, he made his way over to his bed in another room. Tomorrow hopefully would put an end to this hellish nonsense.

O – O – O – O – O – O

Bifur woke with a start. He had been having a strange dream that ended badly. Jasmine had been in trouble and he had been unable to help her. He raked his hand across his face, wiping small beads of sweat from his forehead. As he sat up, he felt something touch his other hand.

Looking down, he saw for the first time a fold piece of paper. Picking it up, he noticed his name written across the front. Gently unfolding it, he began reading; soon realizing it was from Jasmine.

My Dearest Bifur,

I'm sure you are wondering as to how I was able to get a note to you. You will find out how shortly I'm sure.

I love you so much and I miss you terribly. I want us to be together, to begin our lives as husband and wife. Husband… I so want to call you that. And while I know we've never talked about it…I want to give you children. I want to have a family and for us to have a long wonderful life together.

One other thing…just in case this is going through your mind. You could not have known that leaving me in Lake-town would end as it did. So if you are blaming yourself for us being apart, please don't. I am fine, my love. Bard and his family have taken me in and have been very kind to me.

My biggest fear is for you. Why is Thorin so unwilling to give the money he promised the people of Lake-town? I'm hoping a solution can be found to end this peacefully.

Take care my love so we can be together again…and I pray this will all be over soon.

I Love you,

Jasmine

Clutching the letter to his heart, Bifur fought back the tears that threatened to fall. His Jasmine was still waiting for him. And like her, he hoped this would be over soon.

As he sat rereading the letter, Bofur appeared saying, "Prepare yourself cousin, we have an army of Elves at the gate. We must go."

Bifur folded the precious letter and put it inside his tunic near his heart. Getting up he started putting on his armor.

O – O – O – O – O – O

Khuzdul - Bakurn jr hanja? jeg gotek jala hane

English - Where is she? I don't see her.

Khuzdul - Hanja jr eath?

English - She is well?

Khuzdul - Hjertr ur zkrinn bjuttagur. Jeg vrathi ilv farurm rir hane, dokk galjeva't.

English - Things are strange here cousin. I want to go for her, but can't.

Khuzdul - Jeg gotek bekna. Han ol hverth etta igur zith eth verold avor Smaug. hini slaliggro mju

English - I don't know. He has been this way since the death of Smaug...only worse now.

Khuzdul - Mot stjogrond dezezz jr denthar hanja monmur ath jooki ynni lurlom avor etta

English - My biggest fear is that she will be drug into all of this.