First off I want to apologize for taking so long to update. This is the part of the story that could have gone a lot of different ways, and this will continue to be the case from here on in. It took me a bit to decide what exactly I wanted to have happen, and then to get it sounding like I wanted. So very sorry, and without farther delay here is the resolution to our cliffhanger, and other events.
Bilbo shivered from his position behind one of the many large pillars dotting the cavernous treasure room. It was dark now that the dragon was gone, but his trembling hands betrayed the facade of outward calm he was attempting to display. He worried terribly for his friend, praying to whatever gods would listen that she would emerge from taunting a dragon unscathed. Knowing it was useless to dither, and that there really wasn't anything he could do for her, he resolved to keep his end of the bargain before going to check on his dwarves. He moved boldly out onto the treasure, eyes scanning the gold for any hint of the pale gleam of the arkenstone. Balin's description when given had been vague, but the certainty that the dwarf possessed when he spoke of it left the hobbit feeling sure he would know it upon sight.
He walked for some time, feeling as if he had gone miles due to the unfamiliar workout his legs were receiving from walking upon such an unstable surface. The gold slipped and slid under his feet, causing him to move as if drunk, and he stumbled his way forward with hands held out for balance. He didn't care how silly he looked, with no one there to see him and poke fun.
Bilbo was close to giving up and returning when he spotted a light far off over the hills of treasure. It was the color of starlight rather than fire, and though he could not distinguish its source it intrigued him. Legs screaming in protest, he made his way over, watching in awe as the light collected into a single spot of brilliance, radiating out of the gem in waves. It was like a rainbow, like starfire, like all the beautiful things he had ever seen wrapped up in one small package. Picking it up gently, he allowed himself to be consumed by it for a moment, appreciating it for what it was.
With a small sigh he at last tucked it away in a deep pocket of his waistcoat, hiding the light from view. He felt almost disappointed when the area around him dimmed considerably, the gold now looking tawdry in comparison to the treasure in his pocket. Scooping up a few coins to show the others, he skidded his way quickly back to the stairs leading out of the mountain.
Thorin was growing impatient, his worry for Alanta having somehow become eclipsed by his growing need to see the gold of his mountain again. To let it run through his fingers and hold the arkenstone in his fist for all to see. He shoved away the sense of discomfort that these feelings brought him, ignoring the tiny voice that protested his mixed priorities. He even ignored the increasing looks he was getting as he paced back and forth in the small space outside the hidden door.
Finally he could stand it no longer. He had to see for himself. Striding purposefully towards the opening, he called to the others over his shoulder in a brusque tone. "Come on, we're going inside."
"But Thorin, shouldn't we wait for Bilbo to come back and report?" Balin asked, his concern growing as he took in the strange gleam in his friend's eyes.
"The dragon left a long while ago, we all saw it," Thorin replied impatiently. He was taking another step when Kili's quiet voice stopped him, reason nearly breaking through.
"Uncle? Don't you want to wait for Alanta? I thought you were going to go in together."
Thorin wavered slightly, his moral half fighting a losing battle against the demons that had broken through. Mouth hardening into a determined line, he let the demons win. "She will understand," he stated shortly, his tone indicating that he would brook no argument. He headed swiftly down the passage, not even stopping to feel the exhilaration of being back in his home, and missing the looks of worry that were exchanged by all behind him.
Bilbo had just made it back to the ramp leading out of the treasure room when he found his passage blocked by an intimidating figure. He looked up the short distance to see Thorin staring at him intently and gulped, feeling as if his every thought was on display.
"Thorin, I was just coming to tell you I think it's safe to come in," he said brightly, trying to dispel the tension that came from some unknown source. He held up the handful of coins, as if to confirm his explanation, blinking rapidly when Thorin failed to acknowledge them.
"Did you find it?" the dwarf asked eagerly, an unsettling gleam in his eyes.
"F-find what?" Bilbo stuttered, confused in his discomfort.
"The arkenstone," Thorin breathed, his face relaxing minutely as he turned his thoughts to the jewel.
"I..." Bilbo's hand twitched towards his pocket before staying the movement, some inner voice telling him all was not right with his comrade. The gesture went unnoticed by the king, and he soon found himself swept aside as Thorin hurried to get to the treasure. The moment for returning lost goods was past, leaving Bilbo to wonder whatever he was going to do with the glimmering rock that seemed to have corrupted the mind of Thorin. He could only stare helplessly along with the others, who had now joined him, as their friend and king wandered among his lost gold, ever searching for the one thing he prized above all else.
"Mahal help us," Balin muttered, eyes distant as he saw another king in a distant past wandering among his wealth with the poisoned gleam of greed filling his mind.
"What is wrong with him?" Bilbo asked softly.
"It's the gold sickness," Balin replied flatly, sounding as if he were handing out a death sentence. "I fear we have lost our king."
I landed in a thankfully unburnt Esgaroth with a sigh, every bone weary with stress. Watching Smaug tumble to his death in the lake had been the most satisfying relief I felt in a long while. My dragons had left, wishing to preserve their health by removing themselves from potentially hostile territory. I would be grateful for their help for years to come, the role they played having a large influence on how our victory had played out.
Gathering my strength, I went in search of Bard, eager to congratulate him on his monumental accomplishment. I found him sitting at the top of the tower beside the wind lance, a look of hopeful incredulity on his face.
"My congratulations my friend." Clapping him on the shoulder, I offered him a hand up. He took it, the last traces of worry gone, leaving only joy that was almost painful to see.
"We really did it, didn't we," he muttered.
I nodded. "What will you do now?" I knew where I was going, already eager to join my family at Erebor, to see its magnificence for myself. I said as much to him, garnering a chuckle for my enthusiasm.
"I will go join my family, and bring our people home." He turned to go before glancing back, a thought dawning on him. "I'm thinking about approaching Thorin for aid in rebuilding Dale. Perhaps we can come to some sort of trade agreement. After all my ancestor was king, so that land is rightfully mine."
I smiled. "That's a great idea! I cannot speak for Thorin, but I'm certain we can make some sort of arrangement. It's a noble goal." I grinned then, something occurring to me. "It will get you out from under the master's thumb as well, and I've no doubt many will follow you. He didn't seem terribly well liked around here."
"There is that," Bard allowed, a twinkle in his eye as he laughed along with me. "I will see you soon then?"
"Aye, you can count on it." He was just leaving when I called after him. "Wait!" Summoning Luna I bade the great cat offer him her company. "Take Luna with you. I would hate for our victory to be marred by an accident as you made your way to Thranduil's halls" My voice was deadly serious now, all trace of jokes gone. Bard nodded, bowing his head in thanks and continuing his journey towards the forest, pack on his back and bow in hand. The last thing I heard from him as he left earshot was the beginning of a rather one sided conversation.
"I hope you like long walks," he offered my feline friend. "I'll tell you about my family as we go..."
Smiling contentedly, I took wing and sped towards the mountain.
I reached the plateau where I had left the others some minutes later, and was startled to note that it was empty. Thorin had been the one to insist we would walk in together, despite my protests that he not wait for me. So of course I had to wonder what could have changed in only a single day. Landing smoothly, I headed once again down the tunnel, a wisp at my back to light my way. I could see a flickering glow ahead, and assumed the others had made a fire of some sort to banish the darkness.
Breaking out of the hall, I reentered the treasure chamber, my relief at seeing my friends lessening slightly at the conspicuous absence of one key member. We exchanged hugs and greetings before I asked the question that was eating at my tired mind. "Where is Thorin?"
The others exchanged looks, their faces serious in the flickering firelight. "Lass," Balin began uncertainly.
His worry left my heart stuttering. Had something happened to Thorin in my absence? "Balin, where is Thorin?" My voice cracked as I fought between fear for him and anger that they were evading my question. Balin pointed out over the hills of gleaming gold, a helpless expression filling his eyes. When I followed his hand I saw Thorin moving about, and my worry melted away, my legs already beginning to carry me in his direction.
"Wait!" Bilbo blurted out, stilling my advance. I turned questioningly to him, awaiting an explanation. "He - he's gone mad." The hobbit stuttered, wringing his hands. His confession left me blinking owlishly at him as my brain tried to connect this information with what I knew of Thorin.
"What? That's impossible," I chuckled, my laughter dying off when it became apparent they were not playing some elaborate practical joke.
"It's true. All he cares about is finding the arkenstone." Balin admitted with a sigh. "Damned stone should have been destroyed," he added with a disgusted mutter. I couldn't help but notice the way Bilbo flinched at that in obvious discomfort, and my eyes narrowed accusingly. The hobbit backed slowly into the corner, a flicker of relief dying in his eyes as I turned back from my quick address of the company.
"Keep an eye on him, I'll go see him in a moment. I have something else to deal with first." The group nodded, looking confused when I hauled Bilbo off for a private talk. Dragging him into an alcove, I set him upright before staring at him wordlessly.
I watched as Bilbo slipped his hand into a pocket, holding it there as he came to some decision. Nodding resolutely, he withdrew its contents, placing the most breathtaking object I had ever seen in my hands. "I found it," he said simply, not having to bother telling me what it was. He looked afraid then. "I am worried about what it will do to him, he already seems so lost," he confessed.
I offered him a pained smile of understanding. "It's not our decision to make," I reminded him gently.
Bilbo sagged against the wall, shoulders slumping in defeat. "I know," he replied softly.
I handed the stone back to him, offering what council I could. "Inform the others that you will give it to him, I will come with you." I followed him back to the group, attempting to bolster his confidence with my presence.
Bilbo straightened as he marched towards the group, pulling forth some inner reserve of strength that I found pleasantly unexpected. He addressed the others with a determined frown on his face. "I found the arkenstone and I'm giving it to Thorin." Having said his piece he stood silently awaiting their reaction, managing to remain unmoved by the instant mutters of protest.
"You should give it here lad. We can get it out, save Thorin from this horror," Balin encouraged him. The others offered their support for this idea, already reaching towards Bilbo to divest him of his ill-gotten prize.
"No," I stopped them. "It belongs to Thorin, and what happens to the stone is up to him and no other, come what may." My face was drawn now with a mix of fear and painful hope. "Perhaps its discovery will bring him peace, return him to us." The others were already shaking their heads, many recalling the effect said stone had on the older members of the royal line. I stubbornly refused to cave to their negative train of thought. "It doesn't matter, it's not ours. Besides, unlike his father and grandfather Thorin knows exactly what he stands to lose. We must have faith in him."
"I for one want no part in this," Dwalin growled, already looking crushed at the imminent loss of his best friend.
"Fine!" I snapped back, my temper frayed to the breaking point. Grabbing Bilbo by the arm, I fairly dragged him over the treasure leaving the others behind, most of them looking decidedly guilty.
It had to be somewhere. Thorin remembered well what it looked like, its brilliant light and smooth curve as it sat solidly in ones palm. He just had to find it and all would be well. So why did he feel like he was forgetting something important? Some sense of discomfort niggled at the back of his mind, tormenting him as whatever thought it contained evaded his grasp. His company was there, Bilbo reunited with the group. He knew this though he had barely spared them a passing glance once he saw the gold. Alanta was safe too... wasn't she? He frowned, suddenly realizing he did not know the truth of that statement. This was something he should have been caring about, he was certain of that. He started to turn, to go looking for her and reassure himself of her presence, but again his eyes were caught. Another faint twinkling in the distance that could just be the arkenstone had called for his attention like a shout.
He came nearer to the gleam in the distance, groaning in despair when it turned out to be nothing more than a common diamond that had caught just the right light. It was rather beautiful... He did not realize how long he had been staring until sound started to break through a part of his mind, faint at first but growing in volume steadily until the words made some form of sense. "...thorin...Thorin!" He felt a tug on his sleeve, someone was trying to get his attention, and he felt sure he knew that voice. He turned, marginally surprised to see Bilbo until he remembered that was who the voice belonged to.
"Bilbo," he said faintly. "I'm sorry, I wasn't paying attention, what did you need..." he trailed off suddenly, his brain becoming far more involved in the conversation when he took in the silent presence at Bilbo's side. The very tall, very beautiful presence. Looking up, he met her sad eyes, wondering what had caused them to become this way. "Alanta," he sighed, a trace of his former self breaking through in the relief in his voice. His eyes softened in a way that had only ever been for her, and he instinctively reached out to catch her hand in his.
Breaking the moment, but not erasing the smile that had covered her face at his acknowledgement, Bilbo spoke up again. As he talked he pulled a familiar object out of his pocket, drawing Thorin's attention like a moth to flame. "I found it," he said softly, offering a hesitant smile along with the stone that he pressed into Thorin's eager hands. For a long moment there was silence as all three stared into the shining depths of the arkenstone. Thorin was shockingly the first to look away, a single tear trailing its way down his careworn face. He grabbed Bilbo up in a crushing hug, his voice choked with emotion as he offered his thanks.
"I will forever be in your debt," he told the hobbit solemnly, his hands still resting on a surprised Bilbo's shoulders. "This is the very symbol of our home, of the beauty to be found in rock. I cannot hope to repay you." Glancing around for a moment, deep in thought, he held up a hand for patience. "This will be just a start," he muttered, digging through a nearby mound until he found what he sought. The glittering armor flowed like liquid from his palms, causing Bilbo's eyes to widen in wonder. The dwarf passed it to him, smiling when Bilbo gaped at how light it was. "That is mithril," he informed the hobbit proudly. "Light as air and harder than diamonds. I want you to have it. May it always keep you safe from harm."
"Th-thank you!" Bilbo stuttered, overwhelmed by the token he clutched tightly to him.
"We should celebrate," Thorin declared grandly as he threw out his arms as if to bring our attention to our opulent surroundings, the arkenstone still clutched tightly in one fist.
"Will you join the others then?" Bilbo asked eagerly, trying to hide his uncertainty at the kings rapidly changing mood. "They are worried about you," he added lowly, unconsciously taking a step back for fear that he had offended the dwarf.
Thorin had the presence of mind to look sheepish for a moment, offering us both a genuine smile. "Of course, I'm so sorry. I did not intend to upset anyone with my search." We commenced walking back across the treasure, Bilbo murmuring his delight as he came across some small bauble or another. I was lost in thought, Thorin's hand tucked in mine as we headed for the rest of the group. I wondered if we should indeed be celebrating, if this gold sickness had been banished so quickly at the return of the jewel he sought. One memory held me back, of the strange light in his eyes that Balin had brought to my attention. A single glance in his direction showed me that traces still lingered, and I saved my judgement, waiting to see if the sparks would die or turn into a wildfire.
Our small celebration was less a party (like the one at Bilbo's so long ago) and more an intimate gathering. Too many memories were surfacing now as those that had lived here recalled stories of their past life. Faces flashed through their minds, lost friends were brought to light with many a toast, and tales flowed like water. Balin had just finished a story about a younger prince Thorin, much to Fili and Kili's delight and Thorin's chagrin, and we were enjoying the moment of relative silence that followed each recollection.
"That was a funny story," Fili grinned, the look in his eyes indicating he was already taking far too much away than the elders were comfortable with. Kili matched him for potential trouble, and the two lost no time in whispering amongst themselves, no doubt concocting some ridiculous scheme.
"Indeed it was," a deep voice broke in. We all looked up in surprise, eyes drawn to the newcomer towering over us, his grey robes looking rather worse for wear.
"Gandalf!" the group cried as one, offering him welcoming smiles.
"I am glad to see you all well," the wizard replied, not bothering to ask how we had accomplished it. Though his face gave away nothing I was fairly sure he already knew.
"How went your mission?" I asked casually, wondering if he would speak of it now that it was done.
"Well... and not," he answered cryptically. The group audibly groaned, not looking forward to another of his riddle filled explanations. "It did not go quite as expected, and we will see more trouble from it than I would like," he said by way of enlightening us. His voice was grave now, his eyes holding none of their usual mirth.
Thorin took control immediately. "What trouble will we see? Take care to speak plainly, that we may fix this quickly," he scolded the wizard.
Gandalf sighed, clearly trying not to roll his eyes at the impatience of the dwarf king. He sat himself down, took a few draws of his pipe (letting out some impressive smoke rings), and began a story that was more informative that I expected he had told in awhile. He looked visibly uncomfortable, unused to divulging his business, but feeling it necessary all the same. "I was initially separated from our quest by a pressing matter as you may recall. That trouble came in the form of something Radagast showed me, and led me to Dol Guldur." Mutters of unease rippled throughout the group, Bilbo and I the only ones spared in our lack of knowledge about the area. "Yes, the old fortress had long been deserted, or so we thought. Though I expect you too believed the nightmare stories were more than just rumors, and you would be right. A necromancer had taken up residence there, gathering all manner of dark things to him. Including your old nemesis, Azog. I was able to cast him out with some help, but there was more going on there than I had foreseen. An army of orcs, wargs and goblins departed while I was locked in battle with the enemy. An army that is even now heading this way."
"This is bad news," Thorin stated darkly, already rising to his feet in his eagerness to prepare for the coming storm. The others followed suit, hands on weapons as they looked to their leader for orders. Even Bilbo was standing beside them, a determined expression hardening his face and making him look like a warrior. I took a moment to feel proud of the way he had come out of his sensitive shell and blossomed into the confident fighter that stood before me.
As a group we began to tend to our weapons, adding to our stock from the massive supply that was now available to us. I had just gotten my things in order when a troubling thought occurred to me, sending me hurtling towards the ramparts overlooking the gates. "Alanta, where are you running off to?" Gandalf called after me, the others turning to watch my hasty exit.
"Bard said he would be bringing the villagers back to Esgaroth. They will be directly in the path of the coming army!" I heard several loud curses as the others beat a path in my wake, unable to keep up with my long strides. Though to be sure, I wasn't certain what difference a view would do to the present situation. The only thing I could think of was to get to the light to clear my head, thereby hopefully getting a fresh idea. I let the sharp breeze sweep over my face as I leaned over the wall, staring towards Mirkwood as if to will the villagers to stay put. There had to be a way to stop them, to get a message... I was distracted by the sight of a little bird for just a moment before my thoughts pulled together. Snapping my fingers, I smiled in relief. "That's it! I'll send a message, and tell Legolas to keep them there. I'm sure he will want to know about the danger as well."
Though the others looked mildly displeased at the thought of conversing with elves, I could tell they saw the merit in my decision. Calling on Seraph, I scribbled a short note detailing the situation, and bade her go with all haste. Chirping softly, she clutched the parchment tight and disappeared with a fluttering of wings.
Legolas was momentarily surprised to see the small bird, recognizing it right away as the companion of Alanta. He held out a hand, smiling when the bird landed quickly and offered him a bit of parchment. His thoughts wandered as he imagined the reason for a message, perhaps she wanted to officially tell him of their victory, though he had heard it from Bard the day before. Focusing on the paper when his messenger gave an impatient trill, his expression became grim. The news couldn't have been worse, and with his father still stewing he had not the first idea how to deal with the situation.
As if the grumpy king had heard his thoughts, he emerged from his chambers. Legolas' frown deepened when he saw that the elder elf was geared for combat, though he had yet to learn why. He had a guess, and it wasn't a pleasant thought. In answer to his unspoken question, Thranduil began issuing orders to everyone nearby, speaking to his son at the same time. He sent guards scurrying into formation, his tone causing the space near the gates to become a warren of activity. "We are going to Erebor," he announced imperiously. "I intend to take back the gems that were stolen from me now that there is no dragon in the way." Legolas opened his mouth, intending to warn the king of the approaching orcs, a threat that was no doubt going to catch them in the open as soon as they left, but Thranduil was deaf to his words. "Not a word. We are going and I do not want any protests from you my son. There are things you do not yet understand, a certain way things must be dealt with. One day you will be king, and then you will know."
Legolas rolled his eyes as his father turned away, drawing a smile from Tauriel as she joined him. "Maybe I do not wish to be king," he grumbled, too quietly for anyone other than her to hear.
She chuckled at his displeasure. "Surely things cannot be that bad my prince," she jested, trying to pull him to a better mood. He simply passed her the parchment in his hand, unable to smile as her expression shifted to match his, a soft curse leaving her lips. That her thoughts had inadvertently drifted to one particular dwarf was something she chose not to mention. He had intrigued her, nothing more, she told herself sternly. "Have you told your father?" she asked him, knowing by his frown what the answer was.
He shook his head anyways. "He will not listen. If he continues to treat me like a child I may just leave. I am tired of his lectures."
Leaving him to his annoyance, Tauriel took the warning over to Thranduil, correctly guessing she would have an easier time getting his attention. "My lord, this just arrived. I think you should read it." Handing it over, she waited the short moment as the king scanned the words, satisfied when his brow furrowed slightly, a reluctant note of concern filling his eyes.
"You are certain of this information?" he asked sharply.
"I have no reason to doubt her," Tauriel replied honestly. "Despite her less than diplomatic departure, she wishes to be allied with us. I cannot see how she would benefit from such a falsehood."
"We must ride hard then," Thranduil returned, speaking louder now for the packed hall to hear him. "Mount up, we ride with all haste to Erebor. They face a great army, one that is even now threatening to overtake our most recent guests. I will not allow that to happen."
The answer to my missive came fast, but my relief was short lived, soon replaced by a feeling of dread. 'Alanta, Bard and company left this morning at dawn. Father is on the warpath, looking to reclaim his lost gems. We are coming to Erebor, I will do everything in my power to see the men get there safely. In light of this, it would probably be best if they could take refuge in the mountain where it is safe. Regards, Legolas.'
The company watched the expression on my face change from hope to horror, Thorin interrupting my fears as he grew weary of waiting for an update. "What is it? Are they safe?"
I felt glad that his concern was so genuine, but I knew this news would likely crush him. "They left this morning," I stated lowly to groans of despair from those around. "There's more." The suspicious gleam returned to Thorin's eyes at my tone and he stared at me sharply, as if he could burn holes in the offending parchment that was offering all this bad news. "Thranduil is eager to reclaim what he apparently thinks of as stolen gems..." I stoically ignored Thorin's growl of anger at this statement. "Legolas thought to warn me, and says that he will do what he can to get Bard and his people safely here."
"Here?" Balin inquired.
"Well yes. He thought the safest place for the villagers would be inside the mountain, and I'm inclined to agree. Our first priority should be to keep them safe, and in return I feel certain we can convince their men to aid us in our fight. After all, we number just sixteen, hardly good odds against the coming storm."
"No," Thorin stated flatly, drawing all eyes to him.
"I'm sorry, no?" I raised a brow incredulously. "No what?" Silence reigned as we waited for him to elaborate.
The gleam I had prayed to see disappear was growing by the second, wiping out all traces of the dwarf I thought I knew. "No one enters this mountain. I will not see vagabonds steal our treasure." The others gaped at him, shocked by his outburst. Gandalf looked less upset than I had expected, and it took me a moment to realize he was counting on my influence on Thorin.
Squaring my shoulders, I used my height to my advantage for the first time as I allowed my displeasure to be felt by all. "I will not allow women and children to be left defenseless out there while an army of orcs gets closer by the second," I snapped at him.
"I will not allow them in," he growled belligerently, looking positively raving at this point.
My fists clenched as I resisted the urge to knock some sense into him. "I wasn't asking your permission. When they get here I am going to personally escort them inside, and if you even think of trying to stop me I will call my dragons back. They are more than capable of dealing with you and your insanity." Gasps resounded from our unwilling audience, the group unable to believe that I would offer violence to any of them.
"Auntie!" Kili cried, appalled. Thorin himself had staggered a bit, the gleam lessening ever so slightly at the shock of my words and the others reaction to them. He offered me a single angry glower before stalking off into the mountain, no doubt attempting to preserve his dignity. My last glance at him revealed the hurt in his eyes as he turned away and I felt my chest tighten, hoping I would be able to fix things later.
"I hope you can forgive me for doing that," I muttered to the others, sagging slightly as the enormity of what was coming closed in on me. "We do not have time for this arguing, we need to prepare for war." They didn't respond, but I welcomed the looks of understanding the elder dwarves offered me.
"You did the right thing my dear," Gandalf reassured me, pulling out his pipe as he always did when presented with a troubling situation. "Though you will have to tell me about these dragons sometime." We took a last look at the horizon before following the others inside, the heavy clouds in the distance heralding the coming battle with ominous surety.
Author's note: Alright, so yes the dragon is indeed dead, but things are much different than they were in the original story. We have a battle coming, armies moving, and much excitement in the next chapter as we wait to see who lives and who dies. I won't spoil it now (though I'd really like to), but I hope to make it sufficiently interesting. I expect the entire next chapter to be about the battle, so it may be a little shorter than the others depending on how well I can describe combat without being repetitive. Hope you enjoyed this chapter and thanks for reading!