-Hey! Sorry it has been so long. Well...Happy last chapter anniversary! Anyway, let us get this show on the road!

Bilbo's POV

I slowly stretched and looked around the room at the Dwarves. Only Thorin was awake. I silently slid off the bed and went behind the changing screen, slipping out of my sleep clothes and into my shirt, vest and trousers.

"Alaric, how long are we to be here with you family?" Thorin asked. I growled, my eyes flashing a hating red. Looking to Thorin, I said:

"This is not truly my family, Thorin. My true family has been dead for a long time."

"Very well." Thorin said, shock in his blue eyes at my rough voice.

"Anyway, Thorin. I am to be here for just a few days more. Then we can leave for the Lonely Mountain."

"Good. I shall wake the others." Thorin answered, gently shaking everyone awake.

Thorin's PoV

I walked with the rest of the Company as we wandered about the castle. Alaric led the way, explaining which rooms we were allowed into and which ones were forbidden. I gave a very pointed look at Kili and Fili, knowing they will try and get in there.

"Very well, guys. Um...the kitchen is that way, and we do have food if you want it." Alaric pointed down the stairs.

"You're not eating?" Bofur asked.

"No, I don't eat food. And that couger has fed me well enough." Alaric explained. They all nodded and walked down the stairs. I stayed by Alaric's side. He looked at me from the corner of his eye.

"Anything you wish from me, Thorin Oakenshield?" he asked in a teasing manner. I could feel my face heat a bit, but mealy cleared my throat and shook my head no.

"Come now, Thorin." Alaric said, turning to face me, his golden eyes full of mirth. "I have been around Dwarves even more stubborn than you. Your father and his father before him. Both more stubborn than you. Guess it runs in the family."

To be honest with myself, my heart sank. So, he has been with other Dwarves? Well, of course, him being of the First Age. I was brooding so much that I did not notice Alaric walk up to me until he was right in front of me.

"I shall ask again, Thorin, son of Thrain: what do you wish of me?"

And so I kissed him.