AN: I'm going to try and make the chapters longer, now that Daeron and Gandalf have caught up the rest of the company. Also I am aware that there is a lot of 'added' stuff in the hobbit movies but I want to incorporate the best of both the book and the movies to the story. Please enjoy :)
Chapter 6: Escaping Goblin Town
Daeron wasted no time. With a quick nod, he leaped down from the walkway, his sword in hand, and landed amidst the chaotic scene below. The blinded goblins recoiled, their high-pitched screeches filling the air as they stumbled and tripped over one another. Daeron's presence, combined with Gandalf's blinding spell, had caused confusion and disarray among their enemies.
Using the element of surprise to his advantage, Daeron swiftly cut the ropes that bound the dwarves, freeing them from their captivity. Thorin Oakenshield, the stern and proud leader of the company, met Daeron's gaze with a mix of gratitude and determination.
"Ranger, you have come!" Thorin exclaimed, his voice filled with surprise and relief. The dwarves wasted no time, scrambling to their feet and regaining their bearings.
Daeron nodded, his eyes scanning the chaotic scene. The blinded goblins were starting to recover, their eyes adjusting to the sudden return of light. It wouldn't be long before they regrouped and pursued their escape. He raised his sword, ready to defend the dwarves as they made their way to safety. Just as Daeron prepared to engage the goblins in battle, Gandalf's commanding voice cut through the chaos.
"Run! Run for your lives!"
With those words, the dwarves and Daeron sprinted toward the exit of the cavern, their footsteps echoing in the cavernous space. The goblins, now recovering from their momentary blindness, scrambled to give chase. Daeron's heart raced, his senses heightened as he fought to protect the dwarves while they fled.
As they ran, the battle erupted in full force. Goblins lunged at them from all sides, their sharp claws and teeth seeking to tear them apart. Daeron parried their attacks, his sword flashing in the dim light of the cavern. His ranger training kicked in, his movements fluid and precise, as he fought to keep the goblins at bay. Beside him, the dwarves unleashed their own fury, swinging their weapons with unmatched determination. Their cries of battle mingled with the screeches and snarls of the goblins, creating a cacophony of chaos.
They continued running, the shrieks and cries of the goblins growing louder and louder. Daeron turned his head to see swarms of goblins chasing after them. Ahead, he could see goblins charging at them, and he didn't like the odds. This wasn't some battlefield or skirmish where there was some semblance of orderly ranks. This was chaos. Daeron swung his sword, cutting his way through several goblins that lunged from the side.
As Daeron fought his way through the throng of goblins, he couldn't help but notice the courage and resilience of the dwarves. Despite being outnumbered and surrounded, they fought with a tenacity born of their indomitable spirit. Each swing of their weapons was met with an unwavering determination, and their battle cries echoed through the cavern, drowning out the snarls and shrieks of the goblins.
Daeron's senses were on high alert, his ranger instincts guiding him through the chaotic fray. He swiftly dispatched one goblin after another, his sword finding its mark with deadly precision. The cries of pain from his enemies spurred him on, fueling his determination to protect the dwarves and ensure their escape. He'd never seen so many enemies all in one crowded space, let alone an ambush.
"Keep moving! Do not falter!" Gandalf's voice boomed above the tumult, urging the company forward.
Daeron and the dwarves heeded his command, their legs pumping with desperate energy as they pushed themselves to their limits. The goblins pursued them relentlessly, their numbers seemingly endless. Daeron glanced at Gandalf, who appeared focused and determined. There was a glimmer of hope in his eyes that fueled Daeron's resolve. If Gandalf believed they could escape, then they would find a way.
The tunnels of Goblin Town seemed to stretch on forever, twisting and turning like a labyrinth. Daeron followed Gandalf's lead, weaving through the treacherous paths with the dwarves close behind. Occasionally, they had to cut makeshift bridges down or dispatch goblins that got too close. The air grew increasingly foul, a mixture of dampness and decay. Daeron whispered a silent prayer to the Valor as he ran, hoping for their guidance and protection.
"How much further?" Balin called worriedly.
Daeron stole a quick glance at Gandalf, who seemed resolute. "Not much longer," he replied, projecting confidence despite his own concerns. "Trust in Gandalf's guidance, and we will find our way out of this treacherous place."
The dwarves, weary but resolute, pushed through their exhaustion, their determination unyielding. They followed Gandalf's lead as he navigated the winding tunnels and treacherous paths of Goblin Town, always staying one step ahead of their relentless pursuers. Daeron's legs burned, his breath coming in ragged gasps, but he refused to slow down. The lives of his newfound companions depended on their escape.
Deeper into the misty mountains they ventured, their weary legs carrying them through the darkness. The air grew thicker with each step, laden with the foul stench of dank, decaying animals and goblins. The weight of the oppressive atmosphere pressed down on them, adding to their exhaustion.
Finally, after what felt like an eternity of running and fighting, they burst forth from the mountain's depths into the open air. It was midday, and the bright sunlight washed over them, dispelling the lingering darkness of Goblin Town. The foul stank of dank, decaying animals and goblins dissipated, replaced by the refreshing scent of the forest and the cool breeze that brushed against their sweat-drenched faces.
Exhausted and tired, the company collapsed to the ground, gasping for breath. They were battered and bruised, their bodies aching from the intense ordeal they had endured. But they were alive, and a sense of relief washed over them, mingled with gratitude for their unexpected ally, Daeron.
Thorin's voice broke the momentary silence. "We have made it," he said, his voice filled with a mix of exhaustion and triumph. "Thanks to the bravery of our company and the aid of our unexpected ally, we have survived."
A small cheer arose from the dwarves who nodded and thanked Daeron for his assistance. Daeron nodded his head politely. His breathing starting to steady, noticed a hint of worry flicker in Gandalf's eyes. Sensing something amiss, he approached the wise wizard.
"What troubles you, Gandalf?" Daeron asked, concern etched on his face.
Gandalf sighed heavily, his gaze fixed on the company of dwarves. "There's something we must address," he said, his voice tinged with a mix of sadness and worry. "We set out with fourteen in our company, but now we are only thirteen."
Daeron furrowed his brow. "Who is missing?" he asked, scanning the group, trying to account for each member.
Gandalf's gaze settled on Bilbo's absence. "It is Bilbo who is not with us," he replied, his voice laced with concern. "Somewhere along the way, he was separated from the group. We must find him."
The news of Bilbo's absence sparked a fury of accusations amongst the dwarves. Some thought that another dwarf had kept an eye on the hobbit since being taken down into Goblin town. Others argued that the risk of returning into the mountain outweigh the benefit of having the hobbit in their company. Balin reminded them all that without the help of Bilbo they would've all been dead and in three trolls' stomachs. This in terms sparked more discussion amongst them.
Daeron sat quietly observing the dwarves, his eyebrows furrowed thinking about what horrid treatment Bilbo would receive. He watched as Thorin's face darkened with anger, his voice rising above the tumult. "Bilbo abandoned us!" he shouted, his tone filled with bitterness. "Ever since we left the Shire he has longed for the comforts of his hobbit hole. He wasn't cut out for this adventure. I saw him leave the cave on the Misty Mountains, he saw an opportunity to leave and took it. He's long gone by now."
The words hung heavy in the air, silence falling over the group as Thorin's anger reverberated in the stillness. The other dwarves exchanged uncertain glances, torn between their loyalty to their missing companion and their frustration at his perceived betrayal.
As the tension mounted, Daeron's gaze swept the surroundings, searching for any sign of Bilbo. And then, from behind a large tree, the hobbit emerged, his face pale and wearied but bearing an expression of relief.
"Bilbo!" Daeron called out, relief flooding his voice. "You're alive!"
The dwarves turned, their expressions shifting from anger to astonishment as they laid eyes on Bilbo. He approached the group, his steps unsteady but determined.
"I... I got lost," Bilbo stammered, his voice filled with remorse. "I fell down that hole in the floor and must've got knocked unconscious because when I awoke I was all alone."
Daeron noticed that Bilbo was fidgeting with something in his hand before he quickly tucked his hand into his pocket and seemed to relax.
Thorin's features softened, a mix of relief and concern replacing his anger. "Bilbo," he said, his voice carrying a hint of forgiveness. "We feared the worst. But you're here now, and that's what matters."
The other dwarves exchanged glances, the tension in the air dissipating as Thorin seemed to forgive their company.. They stepped forward, offering words of reassurance and welcome to their lost companion.
"Thought you'd be dead," Kili confessed sheepishly, "glad you made it."
"Our burglar is alive thank goodness we don't need to find a new one," Ori joked, patting Bilbo on his back.
Daeron approached Bilbo, a gentle smile playing on his lips. "You gave us quite a scare,"
"Indeed you did," Gandalf said slowly, smiling fondly at Bilbo, "I suspect you have quite the tale to share. But we can't linger here any longer. We have several hours of daylight. We must put as much distance as we can between us and the Misty Mountains. I fear once the sun disappears the mountain side will be swarming with goblin war parties hunting for us."
"Speaking of hunting us," Fili said, shifting his eyes nervously at his companions, "That foul spawn spoke of someone putting a pretty bounty on Thorin's head."
Gandalf looked at Daeron, a frown etched across his mouth, "Thorin, did you speak of your quest in Bree to anyone?"
Thorin shook his head, "I know better than to risk being overheard by brigands and thugs. I only talked to you that night, before departing and gathering the company."
Gandalf closed his eyes as if trying to think, Daeron took that moment to survey their surroundings, ahead lay more forest. This was more wooded and thicker than the woods that surrounded Rivendell. Off in the distance loomed a singular majestic mountain, Erebor. Stories flooded his mind of the great dwarven wealth, how gold seemed to flow down the river into the surrounding regions. How it had been a beacon of strength. It sent a chill down his spine.
"We must be ever vigilant, who knows what enemy is hunting us." Gandalf eventually spoke, "We must be moving now, our adventure has only just begun. Much still awaits us."
The company took a moment to catch their breath, each member leaning against large rocks or sitting on the ground, their chests heaving from the exertion of their escape. Daeron scanned the area. Trying to map out a path that the company could use to traverse the steep and rocky mountain side. His ranger training kicked in as he found one that he thought would be doable. They set off at a quick pace, Daeron ahead leading the company with Gandalf and Bilbo taking the rear.
He turned his attention to Fili and Kili, the twin dwarves who had shown remarkable courage and skill during their escape.
"Fili, Kili," Daeron called out, gesturing for them to join him. The twins approached, their faces still flushed with adrenaline.
Daeron offered them a nod of appreciation. "You fought bravely back there. Your skills with a blade are impressive."
Fili grinned, his blonde hair falling into his eyes. "Thank you, Daeron. We've been training with our weapons since we were young. It seems the practice has paid off."
Kili nodded, his dark hair wild and unruly. "Aye, we're not afraid of a good fight. Though I must admit, that was more goblins than I've ever seen in one place."
Daeron chuckled, his gaze shifting to the horizon where the sun was beginning its descent. A wave of worry filled his mind as he knew that daylight was their saving grace. The goblins wouldn't dare venture out of their mountain, but with night approaching, it would only be a matter of time. They still had a ways to go before reaching the forest, which, hopefully, would provide them some protection from prying eyes. Gandalf, ever watchful, urged them to quicken their pace as the last rays of sunlight filtered through the dense forest canopy.
As they traversed the treacherous rocky landscape, progress was slow and arduous. The steep inclines and jagged rocks tested their endurance, but they pressed on, their determination unwavering. Daeron found himself walking alongside Fili and Kili, their strides matching his own.
"Fili, Kili, do you ever wonder what lies ahead for us?" Daeron asked, curiosity lacing his voice.
Fili glanced at his brother before answering. "Aye, we've been pondering the same thing. Our uncle, Thorin, has spoken of the great riches and glory that await us in Erebor. But the journey there seems filled with danger and uncertainty."
Kili nodded in agreement. "It's true. We face many perils, but I believe the rewards will be worth it. Our people have suffered for far too long. It's time to reclaim what is rightfully ours."
"I must say, you seem to handle yourself pretty well, ranger," Fili remarked. "I've never fought alongside your kind, but I've seen several of you throughout Ered Luin. What brings you along to help us?"
"Thank you," Daeron replied. "Gandalf mainly, though the prospect of an adventure and aiding you in reclaiming Erebor is what calls me. I'm a ranger, and it's my duty to keep the Free People of the North safe from the enemy. Erebor is strategically positioned, and its recapture could help reduce the threat of invasion. While I've never traveled this far east before, I will do everything within my power to see this quest through."
Fili and Kili looked at Daeron with gratitude and thanked the ranger for his assistance. As the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky with hues of red and orange, Gandalf's voice echoed through the gathering darkness. "We must hasten our pace!"
The company quickened their steps, propelled by the urgency in Gandalf's voice. As they entered the tree line, the sound of howling reached their ears, echoing through the dense forest. An all-too-familiar shriek sent a shiver down Daeron's spine. He recognized that sound well from his encounters with wargs up north. Its presence meant imminent danger.
"Wargs!" Daeron called out urgently. "We must make haste and find cover!"
The company increased their pace, their hearts pounding in their chests as the eerie howls grew louder, accompanied by snarls and the sound of crashing branches. In the distance, they faintly glimpsed the flickering glow of torches, a clear sign that the goblins were giving chase.
Their desperate flight through the forest turned into a chaotic blur of sprinting, dodging trees, and stumbling over roots. The wargs drew closer, their menacing growls becoming more distinct. Panic gripped the company, but they knew they had to keep moving, driven by their survival instinct.
Suddenly, they reached the edge of a large cliff, its steep drop plunging into darkness below. Their options were limited, and the sheer cliff offered no path of escape. Daeron's keen eyes scanned their surroundings, searching for a solution. They didn't have time to backtrack and find another way down. Then he spotted it—a cluster of tall, sturdy trees just a short distance away.
"Quick, everyone! Climb the trees!" Daeron shouted, pointing towards the towering trunks. "It's our only chance!"
With little time to spare, the company scrambled up the trees, with Daeron leading the way. His agile movements allowed him to ascend swiftly, finding a secure perch on a thick branch. From his vantage point, he could see the pursuing wargs and goblins drawing closer.
Drawing his bow and notching an arrow, Daeron took aim at the nearest warg. He released the string, and the arrow sailed through the air, finding its mark on the creature's side. Though the wargs possessed tough skin, the arrow caused it to momentarily stumble, buying the company precious seconds.
Daeron continued his barrage of arrows, taking down another warg and several goblins who had gotten too close. However, the wargs' thick hides made it difficult to bring them down with a single shot. They snarled and leaped at the trees, attempting to reach the company perched above.
The tense standoff continued, with Daeron meticulously selecting his targets and aiming for vulnerable spots. He managed to kill another warg, its lifeless body crashing to the ground. The surviving wargs growled and circled below, unable to reach their prey. Daeron stopped shooting, realizing that, while he had bought them some time, there were more goblins and wargs than he had arrows for. The goblins, realizing they had trapped their prey in the trees, began to gather around the base, speaking in their dark and foul tongue. Daeron observed their enemies from his perch. They seemed to be waiting for something, and a splitting howl echoed through the forest, causing the goblins to jump to their feet, their fear palpable. They began to get jumpy. Suddenly, several warg riders emerged into the small ring of light cast by the goblins' torches. Sitting atop snowy white wargs was a pale orc.
"Impossible!" Daeron heard Thorin shout. "I slew you long ago."
"Thorin Oakenshield," the orc snarled, grinning. "It seems fate has brought us together, and this time I will finish what I started."
The orc barked orders in orcish, causing Daeron to clench his fist at the foul speech. The goblins began to move about, cutting nearby trees and throwing wood around the base of the trees they occupied. In swift motions, they threw their torches into the piles of wood, igniting the flames. Soon the goblins began to sing, their sinister voices sending chills up Daeron's spine.
"Sixteen birds in five fir-trees,
their feathers were fanned in a fiery breeze!
What funny little birds, they had no wings!
Oh, what shall we do with the funny little things?
Roast 'em alive, or stew them in a pot;
fry them, boil them, and eat them hot?
Burn, burn tree and fern!
Shrivel and scorch! A fizzling torch
To light the night for our delight,
Ya hey!"
"What do we do, Gandalf?!" shouted the dwarves, scrambling as best they could to climb higher up the tree.
Daeron searched for Gandalf, who sat calmly in the next tree, his eyes closed in deep thought.
"Gandalf!" several other dwarves shouted, trying to get the wizard's attention. "What do we do?"
Suddenly, a cry and commotion erupted below, drawing everyone's attention. Down below, Thorin Oakenshield fought with great fury, slaying goblins and wargs alike as he swung his sword, felling any enemy that got too close.
"Come face me, you foul creature!" Thorin spat angrily, pulling his sword out of a fallen warg. "I'll send you back to whatever decrepit hole you came from."