Another chapter done. I really tried to keep Thorin in character as much as possible. While also trying to make him vulnerable and in a sensitive state of mind. I hope I did ok.
Thorin could feel himself growing more and more impatient. The chilly breeze nipped his face as the sun set and the cold temperature of the evening began to set in. Since setting of on his own to come and consult The Master. The Dwarf king had time to again recap over the events that forced him into his plight. Also thinking about the reactions of his Company and questioning if he had it in him to carry on and lead this mission.
He hated this, this whole situation. The doubt and the overbearing guilt that he has. At the start he never would of thought to question his leadership role. But looking back and with everything that had happened he was beginning to feel less sure of himself. Constantly his brash and stubborn nature had lead the Company into such perils. Granted it wasn't always his fault, this journey was always going to be thwart with dangers. But in the majority of instances it was Bilbo's quick thinking that always got them out of it or at least rescued.
' Buying them some time with the Troll until Gandalf arrived. Launching himself and killing that Orc that was about to remove his head from his body. Putting himself in harm's way to try and fend of Azog and his army of Orcs. In Mirkwood, free them from the Spiders cocoons after he let the enchantment cloud his judgement and lead them all ashtray. Not to mention the Elves prison escape and risking himself to drowning. Bilbo was in no way a bad swimmer but it was well known Hobbit were not built for it. Especially not down violent rapids that could of easily claimed anyone into it's unforgiving depths. Though that was not even the end of it. He put himself forward and vouched for the King after they were discovered stealing weapons from the armoury. With the words he spoke to the towns people for a moment put into doubt, Bilbo again stepped in.
Thorin's rashness caused more trouble and danger to the Company. Only thinking about his mission and his own people. Where Bilbo always thought about the wellbeing and safety of people outside his own species. Not thinking twice about own safety or life regardless of origins or differences. His kind heart, loyalty was what made him special and a true hero. That was a trait the Dwarf thought he will never be able to accomplish.
Suddenly the main to the Master's places opened bringing Thorin out of his train of thought. The larger man stepped out with a puzzled look on his face. " Here's to say I wasn't expecting your visit this evening Master Dwarf. Is there something I can help you with?"
The smaller figure let out a deep breath and hung his shoulders as he looked up at him. " Neither was I planning up until recent events. But I have a couple of new important pressing matters I wish to discuss with you if you don't mind."
The Master's eye widened as worry began to creep in. Did the Dwarf suspect something. Was his full proof plan not as flawless as he originally thought. But if that was the case, then surely there would be more than one Dwarf standing on his doorstep right now?
" I assure you me and my Company are internally great for all you have done for us. But I have come to ask you if I could ask you one or two more favours?"
The larger man began to relax realising the Dwarf had not come to rip him apart and tear his place apart to retrieve the Hobbit. A smile came across his face. " But of course my friend. Please come in out of this harsh chill and follow me to my office."
Thorin obliged and silently followed the Master into his office. He looked around the vast space taking in all the fine make wooden furniture, decor and possessions. Once the larger man shut the door behind them he motioned for the smaller man to take a seat. To which Thorin turned down the offer.
"So what is this matter of urgency and how can I help?" The Master questioned as he took his seat behind his desk and pouring himself a drink. He again offered one to the Dwarf king but he did not accept it.
"Yes well you see..." Thorin stopped to clear the lump that was forming in his throat before continuing. He could already feel the anguish building inside, threatening to overwhelm him before he even started. But he pushed it back down. " A grave accident took place today and unfortunately one of the members of my Company was killed."
" Oh good grief I am so sorry to hear that, my condolences for your loss. I hate to pry but whom may I ask was lost?" The Master inquired with a sympathetic tone, trying to keep up the charade of being oblivious. Even though he knew the answer that was to come.
The Dwarf king could feel his sweaty palms begin to shake and a hot wave of grief wash over him " It was the Hobbit...Bilbo. He was lost in the fire that took place earlier today. You may of heard?" He answered in the steadiest voice he could muster.
"Yes I heard but I was not made aware anyone perished in the blaze. This make it even more tragic and as I said before. My deepest condolences, if there is anything I can do?"
" Your kind words are very much appreciated. If I may ask for your services again would there be a possible place we can keep Bilbo until myself and the Company return from our journey?" Thorin turned his gaze to the floor and waited for an answer.
" But of course the town has a mortuary where we store our deceased until burial. You are more than welcome to keep him there until you return." The Master stood up from his desk and came around the side. " It is honestly such a shame that the Hobbits life was so cruelly ripped away from him. He couldn't of been that old going by his young appearance?"
" In Hobbit terms no he was not a mere 50 years old. Which in Men years would make him middle aged. But in his species it is the same maturity as a human at 32. Though he did act with the wisdom beyond his years."
" Indeed...may I also inquire if your Company will be requiring a replacement Hobbit to aid you in your quest?" The larger man asked with his eyebrow raised.
Thorin looked up shocked on what he just heard, how dare he even mention something like that!. Bilbo is not an thing that can just be replaced. The Dwarfs grief was now turning into anger at this absolute despicable insult. He could feel his blood pressure rising and breathing quicken but gritting his teeth and swallowed down the feelings that threatened to overtake him. He knew he still had to keep his cool despite this fat pompous idiots remarks.
"With all due respect Bilbo was not a object that can just be replaced when lost. He was a valued, cared about member of my Company and a very dear friend to us all."
The Master huffed out only just realising his mistake that probably overstepping the mark. He could now see the annoyed expression all over the Dwarf leaders face. So he tried to retread. " My apologies Master Dwarf I didn't mean to offend in anyway if I could retract what I most certainly would. I can clearly see what I just was wrong, forgive me."
Thorin closed his eyes and took a deep breath. Trying to clear the last remaining red mist that was clouding his head. Opening them again and refocusing on the larger man. " I am sure you didn't mean it in that way. But I am also grateful for you hospitality which brings me to another reason I am here. Not that we are all not grateful but would it be at all possible to stay at a different location? Right now where we are is not entirely suitable."
The Master smiled before taking a sip of his drink. " Of course my friend I will sort it out immediately and I think I know the perfect place for you all to stay. We want our guests to be well rested and comfortable before you set of again. If you leave it with me I will have my head of guard meet you back where you are presently and take you there. It is a cosy place on the outskirts of town."
Thorin bowed his head in gratitude " Thankyou you are most kind. I have my Company at our current location collecting our stuff together."
"Not an issue Master Dwarf I will arrange it right away. But for now unfortunately I must ask if you could take your leave. I need to go and find my head of guard and press on with other important matters." Swigging the remaining content of his glass before putting it down. He began walking over to the door and ushered the Dwarf to follow.
Once Thorin exited the main building, he made his way down a couple of steps but turned back. "If I don't see you before can you promise me you will guard Bilbo and keep him safe until I return?"
From the door the Master let out a toothy grin and nodded. " You have my word Thorin Oakenshield. I will ensure that your Hobbit remains in good hands." He watched as the Dwarf leader again bowed and left. He closed the wooden door behind him before letting out a chuckle and rubbed his hands together in success.
" Thank the higher powers that Dwarfs are such half witted stupid creatures."
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I honestly don't think I will get the next one up today coz it's getting rather late. But I am going to try my hardest :D