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A reader asked, 'where was Tauriel during the Battle of Five Armies and who got rid of Bolg and his approaching army?' Well...my thought was that Tauriel, Legolas and Thranduil...along with their elf warriors, took out Balog while the dwarves did away with Azog. Since Kili and Tauriel never had their 'moment' in Laketown, and she was still unsure about her feelings for him, I think they didn't really fight together and only saw each other very briefly after the battle, and then not again for 16 years. Does that work for everyone?
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Chapter 174
~X~
As the hobbits' visit continued, there was much excitement and laughter throughout the mountain…yet one chilly afternoon in late winter, a message arrived that filled Thorin's heart with sadness. Calling together everyone he felt should hear the news into his council chambers, he reluctantly filled them in.
"I received a message from Dale today," he informed them in a somber tone. "It was from Prince Bain…he says that his father, Bard, has taken a turn for the worst, and they do not expect him to last much longer. He asks that we come first thing tomorrow…in order to say our farewells."
"Oh, Thorin," Marigold whispered, as tears of grief began to slide down her cheek. "I'm so sorry." She knew that her husband and the king of Dale had long been friends, the bond born from battle and years of admiration. His death would be a blow to all.
"Of course we will go, laddie," Balin stated, his own eyes misty from the news. "We knew this was coming…and yet, it is a bitter pill to swallow."
"Aye," Fili nodded, somewhat stunned by the news. "Bain is a fine man, both wise and tested in battle…but the idea of Bard no longer being king of Dale…well, it will take some getting used to. He will be missed terribly."
"I'm glad that Sigrid and her children were able to come and be here though," Bilbo stated, also grateful that he too was on hand to say his farewells to the man who had been such a help to him in the past.
So, come morning, they would make the journey to Dale, despite the icy snow that still covered the ground. It was decided that the children would remain behind in the mountain, with Ilin offering to keep an eye on the younger ones.
"I have penned a letter that I will have sent by raven immediately to inform Bain that we will all come," Thorin said, looking around the room, noting all those eager to join them.
"I can take the letter to the raven keepers for you, King Thorin," Tam offered, having accompanied her father, Bombur, when the summons had come to him in the kitchens. "I was just on my way to deliver a supply of dried fruit and nuts to the aviary, and will see that it arrives safely."
"My thanks, Tam," Thorin nodded, handing the missive to the young dwarrowdam. "See that it goes out right away, before dusk when the ravens can no longer fly. I wish for them to be assured of our arrival."
"Yes, my king," she said, giving a curtsy as she left the room.
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Tam had long been the one assigned to take the many steps up the hill to where the raven keepers worked sending and taking messages from the black corvids. Well, perhaps assigned was not the right word, since she had been the one to willingly offer. Ever since she had run into the dwarrow named Jorun, nearly twenty years ago, he had fascinated her. Thus she had looked for any and all excuses to visit Ravenhill, in hopes of seeing him again. Over the years, they had built up a comfortable friendship, though deep in her heart, Tam knew she wanted more. However, since she was still only in her late fifties, Tam understood that she was still a youngling in Jorun's eyes. The strong and handsome dwarrow was at least twice her age…and yet one day she hoped he would look at her differently. Thus, she made the journey as she always did, yet this time, it was with a heavy heart over the message she was to deliver.
Jorun had just finished taking a daily report from one of the scout birds, writing down the message and sending it off with one of the young runners for delivery, when he spied Tam arriving.
"Ah…Lady Tam," he greeted her, a smile coming to his face. He had always enjoyed her visits, as well as the fine treats she brought from the kitchens. The ravens too had come to associate the pretty little red-haired dam with the tasty morsels she would bring, and they all clucked and quarked happily at the sight of her. Yet, when Jorun saw the downcast look she wore, he grew concerned. Tam was usually such a cheerful lass…what had her looking so glum? "Is everything all right? No trouble with your family I hope?"
"Nay…it is not that," she assured him, forcing a halfhearted smile as she caught sight of his worried expression. "I bring a letter from King Thorin, one that needs to be delivered to Dale immediately."
"Oh, are you now working as his messenger lass, as well as bringing food for the ravens?" he asked in a teasing tone. Yet when she did not respond to his jest, he realized things must be more serious than he thought. So quickly taking the letter she held out to him, he called over a raven, one willing to ferry it directly to the city of men. Once it was tied to the corvid's leg and the bird had taken flight, Jorun turned his attention back to Tam.
"Come over here, my lady, and tell me what has you looking so sad. Your smiles are always so lovely and greatly anticipated, I hate to see you wearing a frown." Jorun took the basket of treats from her hand, setting it down as he guided her over to a stone bench against the wall, assisting her to sit as he looked at her with concern. Gently tipping up her chin with his finger, the young dwarrow urged her downcast eyes to meet his. "Now, won't you tell me your troubles?"
"It…it's King Bard," the lass said at last, her grief over the kind monarch spilling out in the form of tears. "He…he's dying, and he has always been so kind to our family…I can't believe that soon he will be gone!" And before she knew what she was doing, Tam had flung herself into Jorun's arms, sobbing her heart out on his chest as he tenderly held her, patting her back and speaking consoling words in a soft voice.
"There, there," he soothed, also saddened by the news. He had not had many dealings with the king of Dale, but his son, Bain, had treated him very well on the journey to the mines of Gorbash, even recommending him for his now coveted position as a raven keeper. Jorun knew what it was like to lose loved ones in death, and his heart went out to the prince and princesses of Dale. "I know it hurts, little one, but it is the price that all must pay who are mortal. Bard was indeed a fine king, and he will be greatly missed. I'm certain he would be pleased to know that one as kind hearted as you found him worthy of your tears."
"My father always spoke so highly of him," she said, her words coming out between sniffles as she did her best to comport herself. "And he was so kind to my siblings and me when he visited the mountain, he and all his family. I feel so badly for them."
"As do I," Jorun nodded. "It will indeed be a dark time for the city of Dale."
It was then that Tam seemed to realize just how familiar she had become with the dwarrow before her, quickly sitting up and wiping at her eyes as she blushed in embarrassment.
"I'm sorry I cried all over your tunic," she apologized, noting the tear stains on his clothing. "I didn't mean to get so emotional."
"It's quite all right, working in the aviary, you often get a lot worse on you than tears," he laughed, pleased when his small jest brought a smile to her lips. "And everyone is entitled to break down from time to time, even lovely maids such as you. Though I do hope you don't remain despondent for long. The ravens are not the only ones who look forward to your visits and your sunny smiles. I would greatly miss them, seeing as how you're the prettiest delivery lass we have."
"I…I am?" she asked, somewhat shocked by his complimentary words. She had long hoped that Jorun might take notice of her, and while she knew she was still on the young side…in her eyes, this was progress!
"Of course," he assured her, giving her a playful wink. "Much better looking in fact that all the young pages that run up and down these steps delivering messages."
"Oh," she responded, his words not exactly the ones she had been hoping for. Yet, still, he had said she was pretty…and that would be the point she held on to. "Well…thank you. But, I suppose I best be going. Thanks again for letting me cry on your shoulder."
"Any time," he offered. "Though I do hope you have very few reasons to be sad in the future. But should you need to dampen any dwarrow's tunic, mine is always at your service, Lady Tam."
"You are too kind, Master Jorun," she nodded, loving how he always referred to her as Lady. "Farewell for now." And with a final bashful smile in his direction, Tam turned and headed back down the steps.
"Farewell," he called after her, standing there long after she disappeared, his mind somewhat troubled by the whole encounter.
"You like the little hen, do you not?" came a deep and gravelly voice from behind Jorun, causing him to turn and look at the large black corvid in surprise.
"Lord Simek?" he said, unsure as to what the leader of the ravens meant by that. "Of course I like her, she is very kind."
"Ah, but do you wish to make a nest with her, that is the question?" the bird all but chuckled - if birds were even capable of doing so. Simek too had grown old over the years, and while he was now training one of his wisest offspring to one day take over for him, the strong bird still ruled the roost.
"A nest?" Now Jorun was shocked. "She is just a child!"
"Fledglings grow," Simek reasoned, ruffling his dark feathers as he settled down into a more comfortable position on the hay covered rock wall. "She will not remain a child for long. And I have been around you dwarves long enough to know when I see a spark of interest between a male and a female."
"Lord Simek," Jorun stated firmly. "I admire your wisdom, and am well aware of your keen skills of observation, but in this matter I fear that you are gravely mistaken. I have no interest in the Lady Tam, other than friendship. I am not in the habit of giving undue attention to innocent young things such as her. And even if I were to one day find my one, I could never hope that it be with a lass so well thought of and admired as the daughter of one of Thorin's company. I am by no means worthy of such a dam."
"If you say so, lad," the black raven said, bobbing his head up and down. "Yet, often it takes an outsider to see what is right in front of your own eyes. And I was not made lord of the ravens for my looks alone, but for my keen eyes. Still, I will keep my beak closed on the matter, if that be your wish."
"It is, thank you," Jorun assured him, suddenly feeling rather irritated by the raven's words. "Now, if you will excuse me, I must store the treats she brought, and get ready for the evening's roost." And picking up the basket Tam had left, the flustered dwarf headed for the food bins, ignoring the soft clucking sound that came from the lord of the ravens.
What did Simek know? Jorun thought to himself. He had no designs on little Tam…that was ridiculous! And yet, she wasn't quite so little any more, was she? And the daughter of Bombur had blossomed into a fine looking young dam, almost as if overnight. Still, she was not even of age, and wouldn't be for another twenty to thirty years. Besides, Jorun was far too busy for thoughts of love, and there were no signs that he had found his one…in her or any other, let alone woken up. This was all foolish talk…and yet, there was something about Tam, something that made his heart light up with joy whenever he laid eyes on her. Could it be? No! He would put such things out of his mind, for nothing could ever happen between the two of them.
Could it?
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The following day, a large company made their way out of Erebor, riding through the snow towards Dale. It was a somber trip, one that burdened their hearts, yet none of them would pass up the opportunity to see their former comrade in arms one last time.
Arriving at the royal house in Dale, Tilda met them at the door, ushering them inside with tear filled eyes.
"Da's been asking for you, King Thorin," she explained. "I told him you sent a message saying you were coming, and he requested that I escort you all up as soon as you arrived."
"How is he doing?" the dwarf king asked, taking the princess by the hands and giving them a gentle squeeze of comfort.
"Poorly," she admitted. "His body is still strong, and his mind is keen, but it is his heart and lungs that appear to be giving out on him. This bitter winter has taken its toll, and the healers fear he is not long for this world."
"You have our deepest sympathies, child," Dis told her, approaching and giving the weeping lass a warm hug.
"If there is anything we can do, Tilda," Fili offered, his heart breaking for the pain he saw in her eyes. "You know you only need ask."
"I know, and so does Bain and Sigrid," she nodded. "We all thank you for your friendship and support. It will be a devastating time for us all…but knowing we have friends like you to lean on will ease our burden. Now come, he is waiting."
The company filed up the stairs, each wearing somber faces, and some already brushing away tears. The dams clung to each other and Tilda as they made their way to Bard's bed chamber. At the door sat Bain, leaning forward with his head in his hands, as if trying to gain the courage to go back in. When he heard the dwarves approach, he rose to his feet, doing all he could to appear kingly.
"King Thorin, thank you for coming," he said, giving the dwarf a low bow. "You honor us with your presence."
"Lad, there's no need for such formalities," Thorin told him kindly. "Today I am just a friend, here to bid a valiant comrade farewell. May we go in?"
"Yes, of course. Da will be pleased to have the distraction, I'm sure," Bain smiled fondly at the dwarves who filled the hallway. "He has always looked up to you, Thorin." Here he stopped and blushed slightly at the irony of his words, glad that Thorin too found it just as amusing. "You have been both a true friend and ally to my Da over the years, I hope that we might continue in the same manner…once I am king."
"It has always been my wish and full intention, Prince Bain," Thorin assured him. "You have grown into a fine man, one your father can be proud of. You will make an excellent king when your time comes."
"Your words give me hope, My Lord," Bain said with another bow. "Please…come in, all of you." He then opened the door, escorting the line of dwarves inside.
Bard had indeed been waiting for the dwarves of Erebor to visit, having asked Sigrid several times already if they had arrived. So when he saw the room fill with their familiar faces, the genuine smile that graced his weathered face made him look years younger.
"Thorin!" he greeted, his exuberance causing a small coughing fit, one that left him a bit out of breath when he at last was able to stop. "I…I am very happy you came."
"And when have I not dropped everything and come when requested by the king of Dale?" Thorin asked, keeping his tone light. "Besides, from the way you sound, it would appear that the gift I brought would do you a world of good." He then pulled a decanter of dwarven ale out of the bag he carried and set it on the nightstand beside Bard's bed. "Now don't go drinking that all at once, or Tilda and Sigrid will have my hide for getting their father drunk…again."
"Oh, Thorin…you've always known my one weakness," Bard chuckled, reaching for the glass container and uncorking it, taking a deep breath of the amber liquid. He then gave Sigrid a questioning look, as if asking her permission to take a sip.
"Just a small one, Da," his oldest daughter acquiesced, a warm smile on her face as she nodded to Thorin in gratitude.
Now with his 'nurse's' consent, Bard tipped the decanter up to his lips and savored the taste, enjoying the rich flavor on his tongue.
"Erebor ale is known far and wide as the best in the land," he stated with a pleased sigh. "I thank you for thinking of me."
"Is there anything we can get you, dear friend?" Dis asked, coming over to the bed and taking Bard's outstretched hand. Tilda had been correct, for while it was obvious that his heart and lungs were failing, the king of Dale still looked very much the strong and vibrant man he had always been. His hair was now gray, and his skin held a quite a few wrinkles, but he was still the same handsome Bard they always knew.
"Nay, Lady Dis," the elderly king told her. "My son and daughters are caring for my needs quite well. Your company was all I was missing, and now here you are. So, tell me, how fares the mountain these days with a plethora of hobbits visiting?"
"Never a dull moment," Kili laughed. "As I'm sure you might have guessed."
"Oh, I bet," Bard grinned.
"Care to place a wager on that?" Nori spoke up, causing many in the room to release a halfhearted laugh.
"I would be a fool to bet against you at any time, friend Nori," the king of Dale chuckled. "Thus I will keep my coins and go to the halls of Mandos with my pockets full."
"Da," Sigrid chided, hating it when he spoke of such things.
"Now, now, daughter," he told her soothingly. "It is a forgone conclusion, and one we must all face. Let me have my fun while I can. There will be plenty of time for sorrow later."
Sigrid gave a sad nod of agreement, knowing what he said was true.
"Now, come here, all of you," he begged, holding out his hand to the crowd of dwarves. As they all filed by, Bard spoke to each of them, recounting happier times, and special memories they had shared. Some parted from him with a smile, while others left in tears, unable to hide their grief. When most had said their farewells, they excused themselves and headed out into the hall, leaving only a few behind.
"Balin, I ask that you continue to offer your council to Bain whenever he is in need of it," he told the white haired dwarf. "You have never led me astray, and without your aid, I don't think I would have had the first clue how to rule a city."
"You were always a quick study, Bard," Balin informed him with a smile of gratitude. "In fact, you ended up teaching me a thing or two about diplomacy. I will aid your son wherever I can…though I believe he had the best teacher in you."
"And you, Dwalin," Bard said, turning to the bald headed dwarrow who was fighting back tears as he held his wife close to him. "You have been a fine comrade, and I have always been in awe of your skills as a warrior. Not to mention your ability in getting such a pretty little hobbit like Bergie here to marry you."
"You and me both," Dwalin laughed, wiping at his eyes as he reaching out and gripped the man's weathered hand, giving it a final squeeze. "May Mahal bless you, Lad."
"Tauriel," Bard said, next addressing the tall redheaded she-elf with affection. "I am so pleased that you have found love and happiness with Kili. I think the two of you were truly made for each other, and it has been my privilege to know you. And Kili, don't ever lose that spark of life I've come to enjoy so much in you."
"You have been a fine friend to us through thick and thin," Kili told the man with the best smile he could muster. "I know for a fact, that had we never met you, Bard…none of us would be here today. We will forever be grateful."
Next Bard turned to Fili and Sier, giving the two a warm smile.
"Fili…you, like my own son, will be king yourself one day," he began. "I just pray that it is far, far in the future, and under better circumstances than what Bain must face. You have done Thorin proud…you and your brother…and I have never known two finer warriors. Never neglect the bond you both share, for it is what has made you two what you are today. Love and loyalty. Take care of your family, Fili…you and Sier have something special, something I too once had with my own wife. I have enjoyed watching you both over the years, for every time I see you look at each other with affection, it has warmed my lonely heart."
"We will treasure your words, and always remember them, King Bard," Sier told him, leaning forward and giving him a kiss on the cheek, causing the old king to blush slightly.
"You are indeed a lucky fellow, Fili," Bard said with a wink at the blond prince.
"I am well aware of that, Your Majesty," Fili said with a bow of respect. "As are you to have such fine children, who love you with all their hearts."
"And I am well aware of that, as well," Bard assured him. He turned his gaze to Dis and Flinn, the corners of his eyes crinkling with joy at the sight of them. "Dis…my dear, dear friend and helper in all I ever needed to accomplish, be it for good or ill." At this the teary eyed dam laughed, recalling how she and Bard had both planned and schemed many times over the years – though mostly for the benefit of all. "I am so happy that you had your life-mate returned to you. To see you aglow with the joy of love once more warmed my heart like you will never know. Of all the dams I know, you are the one who I believe deserves happiness the most. You will always hold a special place in my heart, Lady Dis." He then looked over at Flinn. "If you don't mind my saying so, that is."
"I begrudge you nothing, King Bard," Flinn told him. "For by your hand and skill with an arrow, you brought low the dragon of old, saving the lives of many…including my sons. For that, you will always have my undying gratitude."
"And my love and affection," Dis added, leaning back against her husband's chest for support as she openly wept. "You are a king among men, Bard the Bowman. And always will be."
"And just so you know," Bilbo spoke up, stepping forward before the king could call him forward. "Be assured that tales of your greatness will live on in the Shire, told to all by me and my kin. You saved us more times than I can count, Bard, and through it all, you remained loyal and steadfast. A true friend, and one this hobbit will never forget."
"You are quite an extraordinary fellow, Bilbo Baggins," Bard said with a look of great affection. "From the very first day we met, I knew you would do me good. I have never met a more trustworthy, brave, and resourceful person in all my years, and I will treasure our friendship, Master Baggins. You are the finest hobbit I know."
"And I have yet to meet a man who has impressed me more than you, Bard of Dale," Bilbo whispered, gripping his hand in his as he did his best to smile one last time. In the end, Daisy had to pull him away, wrapping her arms around his shoulders as she led him out into the hall.
This left only Thorin and Marigold in the room, along with Bard's children and grandchildren. By now Tilda, Sigrid, and Brenna were weeping openly, the touching words their father had said to all the dwarves, hobbits, and elf, moving them deeply. Bain and Dunner were attempting to hold in their grief, but they too were finding it difficult. The king of Dale's five grandchildren sat near the window, silent and somber, knowing that they would soon be without their beloved grandfather.
"Thorin," Bard began, leveling his keen eyes on the dwarf king. "I'm not sure what words I can say that could encompass the magnitude of my admiration for you. And to think, we started out as enemies…or at least very unlikely friends."
"Aye, you did not care much for me and my plans to retake the mountain," Thorin chuckled, thinking back to the bitter words they exchanged on the steps of the Master of Laketown's home. "And yet, without you, Erebor would not be ours today. I owe you more than I can say, King Bard. And your friendship has been something I have cherished throughout the years."
"I as well," he smiled. "You have ever been an inspiration to me when times were difficult, Thorin Oakenshield. You have endured much, suffered greatly, and still triumphed in the end. May all future kings aspire to your greatness." He then gave a bit of a sly grin. "I have also enjoyed our verbal sparrings over the years, you are a worthy opponent with your quick wit and sharp jabs, my friend."
"I only gave as well as I got," Thorin snorted, recalling many a time he lost in such battles with Bard. "Thankfully, your love of dwarven ale often allowed me an easy victory."
"Ouch, your tongue is still sharp as a sword," Bard commended him, a happy smile on his face. "Don't ever change, Thorin."
"I think it is far too late for that, dear friend," Marigold told him, doing her best to lighten the mood. "I married one stubborn dwarf, you see."
"And a more perfect mate he could not have found," the older man stated. "I have never seen him happier than when he is at your side, Marigold. And more times than not, I have you to thank for me getting out of Erebor with my hide still intact, after foolishly spouting off when I should have kept my mouth shut."
"It was always my pleasure," Marigold laughed. "For I knew if I allowed him to do you damage, you might not return, and then where would my husband find his entertainment?"
"True…true," Bard agreed. "Yet now, old friend, you must satisfy your thirst for quarrel with others…Bain perhaps, for he is sharp of mind and under your tutelage can certainly learn to be the same with his tongue."
"Perhaps he will be wiser than you, and know when to hold his tongue in my presence, and not keep wagging it," Thorin suggested, giving the prince of Dale a wink.
"One can only hope," Bard laughed. "Yet now, I fear that I grow weary and wish to spend some time with my children and grandchildren. I thank you for coming, Thorin. I did not wish to part from this world without speaking with you one last time. If I am allowed, I will see you in the halls of Mandos, and we shall share a drink and speak of old times, yes?"
"I'll be sure to bring the ale," Thorin promised, reaching out and placing his hand upon Bard's shoulder, nodding to him in a final gesture, since he could feel his throat closing up, rendering him unable to speak. Yet, it was enough, and as Thorin took hold of Marigold's hand and led her from the room, the king of Erebor at last allowed himself to weep for his friend…and he was not ashamed.
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Thorin and the rest remained in Dale, unwilling to leave while their friend clung to life. It was near midnight when Bain came downstairs, his eyes red from crying, yet no one thought less of him for it.
"My father…is gone," he announced sadly. "Sigrid, Tilda, and I were with him in the end, having asked Dunner and Brenna to put the children to bed some time ago. He went happy and in peace, knowing that he was loved. I hardly remember my mother, for I was still very young when she died…thus our da was everything to us. Now he is gone."
"Yet his memory and the legacy he left for you will live on," Thorin assured the despondent prince. "As will his love for you, in the eyes of your children and their children after them. I won't say do not weep, for not all tears are evil…but please do not despair. You still have so very much to live for, and your people will now be looking to you to lead them. Do so in the name of your father, honor him in this way. Be the king Bard always wanted you to be."
"I…I will," Bain nodded, his head coming up in pride and his eyes turning resolute. "Thank you King Thorin."
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The rest of the night was spent in fitful sleep, with some finding beds, while the others crashed out on sofas and other furniture. In the morning Thorin took Bain outside, followed by Brenna, Dunner, Tilda and Sigrid. Théoden, who was nearly a man of thirty came as well, with his younger sister and cousins following close behind. The rest of Thorin's company stood in the back, showing their loyalty and support, but not interfering with what was about to take place.
Outside, a large crowd had gathered, the news of Bard's passing having spread throughout the city. All looked to Bain, who stood tall and strong, very much in the likeness of his father.
"The king is dead!" Thorin announced loudly to the grief stricken people of Dale. "In his place, his son will stand up as your new ruler." He then drew Orcrist and held it up, shouting loudly. "Long live King Bain!"
"Hail, King Bain!" the citizens cried out, raising their fists in agreement to Thorin's statement. "Hail, Queen Brenna!"
Dunner stepped forward, going down on one knee before his new king, and holding his sword in both hands, presenting Bain his blade in a show of subjection.
"I offer you my sword, my king…as well as my life," he said, his voice deep and sincere. "I will follow you wherever you shall lead. Command me, Sire."
Bain reached out and took Dunner's sword from his hands, then lightly tapped the flat part of the blade on either side of the man's shoulders.
"Rise, Master Dunner," he directed. "Leader of my armies, and kin to me through my sister. I name thee as my second in command, may your service bring honor to Dale, just as you have always brought honor to me."
A loud cheer once more rose up from the crowd, agreeing whole heartedly with their new king's first command. A servant approached and handed Bain a golden goblet, the king's chalice, encouraging him to drink. The one-time prince raised the cup and cleared his throat, gesturing for Sigrid and Tilda to come stand on his left, while Brenna took her place at his right, between him and Dunner.
"To my father, King Bard," he called out in a strong voice. "May I follow in his wisdom and generosity, and on the heels of his strong rulership…may we all have peace. TO BARD!"
"TO BARD!" everyone responded.
Thorin nodded in agreement. Bard had indeed brought his people into a time of hope and peace…and though the rise of Mordor now threatened this, no one would ever forget the king of Dale.
The name of Bard, the bowman who brought down Smaug, would live on for all time.
Yes, Bard will NOT be forgotten. And I am so sorry I had to kill him off like that. But it was cannon, so I was stuck. If I could have found a way to make him live forever, I would...but it was simply not possible. I had considered just saying "and Bard died" so as not to dwell on the sad stuff, but he was such an awesome character that I felt he needed a good death scene.
Well, it looks like Lord Simek is one smart bird. ha ha. Too bad Jorun is not quite 'there' yet.
And now is the time for Bain to shine as king...not that we will get to see him do much since I am still time-skipping and almost done. But we know he will be an awesome king, nonetheless.
Again, sorry if I made you cry. We will all miss Bard.
Guest Reviews:
Feu d'Argent: I am sure Drogo will not be asking for much, ha ha, a basket of veggies or a new shovel perhaps. ha ha. Yep, Frodo and Flinn are cute, and no Frodo never did marry, but he does not know that at the moment. Sorry this chapter was a bit of a sad one.
abc: I think Dwalin will be OK with it all...he just has to get used to the idea. Yep, don't all big brothers act protective over their little sisters? And Holly is indeed growing up...get used to it Frodo. awww, glad you enjoyed my version of how the boys survived the battle of five armies. Thanks
Guest: I am happy you are pleased by Thorin having a son and how I am touching on the lives of some of the children. Can't have many of them find love though, since most are dwarves and won't hardly be of age before this story ends. ha ha. I too enjoy my version better, since I let Thorin, Fili and Kili LIVE! Unlike those mean old Tolkien and PJ guys. ha ha. Oh, I liked your vision of older Flinn very much...but...but, no mustache braids like his Adad? ha ha. Thanks for linking me to the pix. Did you draw it or did you just find it? Thanks for the kind review!