Ethereal Moonbow

Thorin forbade Kili and me to follow the company to the Lonely Mountain. All we have been through just to… get separated.

First Mirkwood and its horrible spiders, the barrels, the orcs, stealing the armory, convincing the Master to help the Company…

Haven’t I proved myself worthy of this mission? I can’t help but feel betrayed by Thorin.

“(y/n)!” Thorin finally spoke with a firm voice.

“It’s dangerous for both of you to come, can’t you see I am trying to protect Kili and you.”

“And who will protect you!” I bawled.

Thorin’s firm expression remained. He looked at me, silently, like if some frightening thought crossed his mind.

Before another argument came out of my mouth Thorin pulled me in for a hug.

I could feel the coldness of his armor against my skin and the wetness of my tears soaking his clothes. Thorin was prepared to fight the dragon, but was I prepared to get apart from him?

“I don’t want to lose you Thorin, nor anyone of this Company.” I whimpered hugging Thorin back and burring my face on his neck.

“I’m a dwarven warrior” - I continued - “I’m sure I can protect myself.” I tried to explain myself in between tears.

Although deep in my heart, I could sense, Thorin was also afraid of losing me. Thorin pulled away from me and squeezed my shoulders with both of his hands.

“Yes (y/n), you are a dwarven warrior. But I need you here with Kili, would you keep him safe, for me?” I turned to look back at Kili. Thorin was right, Kili looked sick. But isn’t it unfair for him to stay in Laketown if the wish of seeing the Lonely Mountain is still on his heart? 

I wiped off my tears with the back of my hand and prepared to give my response.

“I will… stay with Kili. I’ll protect him as you asked me.”

Thorin seemed to be less preoccupied with my answer. But I wasn’t done speaking yet.

“But you need to promise I’ll see you again.”

I whimpered as I gazed directly into Thorin’s eyes.

Thorin turned his gaze away from mine. He looked hesitant; he didn’t wished to give me an answer. He never makes promises if he can't keep them. Still, I needed something to reassure me that I wouldn't go through the loss of someone I love, again.

The last time someone left me behind never returned. My father, my mother, my village… The same feeling of fear and helplessness of that terrible day took hold of me again. What if Thorin didn’t returned? What if the mission failed?

“Promise me Thorin!”

I cried, hoping, Thorin could answer me.

Thorin looked down at me, thinking thoughtfully of the words he was about to pronounce. He wiped my tears away with his hands.

“I promise, little dwarven warrior.” He pledged and sweetly kissed my forehead.

Thorin moved away from my side and got inside the barge with the rest of the Company. I watched as they left. A part of me wanted to jump inside the barge and follow my friends despite Thorin’s warning. But I made a promise to Thorin, and I do not intend to break it.

A long-kept breath left my lungs. How long have I been holding it?

I don’t know if to feel comforted or concerned about the situation. I guess the only thing I can do right now is to have faith. The sound of trumpets got me out of my trance. Agh! I grumbled internally. The Master of Lake Town is annoying in every possible manner.

When The Company and me got caught stealing the armory they made a whole drama about the issue. Dragging us in the middle of the night and waking up every resident of the town only because we were surprised stealing. I think it’s an exaggeration.

Even though, I could not complain too much about him, somehow, he helped the Company. But that fat and ugly man only cares about the coins in his pockets. His intentions were clear as day when Thorin mentioned the word “gold”.

As the Master ended his boring farewell speech to the dwarfs I made my way towards Fili, Óin, and Kili.

Among the bustle, I managed to perceive a familiar voice. “Bofur!” I called for him, although the crowd didn’t permit me to see where he was. After pushing many people apart, Bofur was able to reach the edge of the pier. He looked agitated and had dark circles under his eyes.

“Oh (y/n) ¿Did you got up late too?” Bofur asked while he regained his breath. The night before, Bofur had enjoyed pleasantly the finest wine the Master had to offer. Bofur surely had more drinks than he was supposed to.

“No, Thorin asked me to stay with Kili.” I answered with a slight touch of sadness in my voice. Behind me I heard a groan. It was Kili, he looked incredibly pale and couldn’t even stand up in his own. “We need help.” Fili declared. “But who will bring us aid?” - Óin asked – “Something tells me we won´t be welcomed by the people of Laketown anymore.”

“The Master!”- proposed Bofur- “If he is really interested in Thorin`s deal of sharing the gold he will surely help us.” Wasting no time, we made our way swiftly to the Master’s house. We tried to make our way through the crowd of people. I only prayed Kili could resist a little longer.

After running around Laketown the Master’s house appeared before us. It was three times bigger than any building that could be encountered in the city. It was obvious that the Master had appropriated of many other people's goods.

“Please! Wait! We need your help!” Fili shouted just in time before the Master got inside his house. “My brother is sick!” He pleaded.

“Sick? Alfrid! Tell them to leave!” - The master panicked. - “I can’t imagine what diseases this dirty dwarfs bring with them, surely its infectious!” He finished frenetically placing a cloth over his mouth and nose. Óin was right, we are no longer welcomed here.

Óin took a step forward. “Please! We only need some medicine.”

Alfrid's face turned into one of pure evilness. His gaze resembled that of an enraged troll. “Do I look like a healer? The Master is a busy man and we have given you enough of our help.”

“But we had a deal! Your help for the dwarfs’ gold!” I exclaimed angry.

“Well, I don´t see any riches or gold here.” Alfrid spat back.

“But you gave your word!” I argued. If I could, I'd punch Alfrid in the face, but I guess that wouldn't help much.

“We have no time for a spoiled child and a bunch of dwarfs, be gone now!” Laketown’s Soldiers pushed us away from the place at Alfrid`s command.

“Der Mump” I grumbled under my breath. Alfrid was indeed a wicked man. But he will pay for his sins, someday.

“What now?” - Bofur asked – “If the Master didn't help us, I think the people of Laketown won't either.” This situation was truly mortifying, worse than the giant Mirkwood spiders. I turned to look at Kili, he was very weak and I doubt he was even conscious at the time. We urgently needed to find a place for him to rest.

“(y/n), what about the girl you befriended at Bard’s home, do you think she can help us?” Fili questioned as he tried to keep Kili standing up. “Tilda? Maybe she can, but I’m almost sure Bard wouldn’t want to receive us inside his home again.” I explained.

When we were captured stealing Laketown’s armory Bard looked preoccupied and angry, he even spoke against Thorin’s mission of returning to the Lonely Mountain. I am certain he would kick us out of his home if we dare place a foot inside.

“We must try at least; we don’t have the privilege to choose now.” Óin pointed out. He was right, in this desperate situation we must do what we can. We made our way to Bard’s home, people stared at us, some indifferently and others with displeasure. I hope Bard doesn't feel either of those two things when he sees us again.

After some minutes we arrived at his front door. Bofur knocked the entrance in desperation. When it opened an angry bargeman was revealed. “No! I had enough!” Bard hissed when he saw the dwarfs. Bard moved to close the door but Bofur graved its edge not permitting him to do it.

“Please Bard! Kili is sick! I beg you to help us!”- I objected trying to gain the man’s favor. - “I know you have a good heart Bard, we just need a place to stay.” I pleaded to the bargeman trying to reason with him.

Bofur moved apart permitting Bard to see the deplorable condition in which Kili encountered himself. Bard didn’t wanted anymore problems, that’s for sure. But something inside the man couldn’t let him leave us in fate’s hands.

“Come in, before I regret it.” Bard said opening fully the wooden door of his house. The dwarves hurried into Bard's house and laid Kili down on one of the beds. Óin exposed Kili’s injury, almost tearing apart the cloth of his pants.

I gasped at the sight of the wound. I have never seen something like that in my life. Kili's leg looked like a trunk, the whole area had an intense reddish color and, in the center, a large black spot seemed to get bigger continuously.

How Kili could endure so much pain all this time? Dwarves never fail to surprise me, perhaps they are really tougher than they seem.

“(y/n)!” Tilda cheered. I turned my face around to look at the girl who seemed to fly towards my direction. She jumped and hugged me tightly. “I thought, I would never see you again.” Tilda mumbled while she hugged me. “Me too.” - I answered stepping back to look at her. -“But it hasn’t been more than a day.”

Tilda turned to look at Kili who was currently groaning in pain. “I don’t think we have any medicine that would possibly cure that wound, but we’ll do what we can” She pointed out handing me a bowl full of warm water and a wet cloth. “Thank you, Tilda,”. I muttered, giving Kili a concerned look.

Tilda’s words didn't really help me much, they made me start to worry. Kili had saved me once, was there no possibility that I would do it for him?

I walked towards the edge of the bed where Kili was lying down. I wiped the sweat from Kili's forehead with the damp cloth. Tears of pain welled up in Kili's eyes, and I felt one slide down my cheek as well.

Feeling the moisture on his forehead, Kili slowly opened his eyes and looked at me. I doubt he was fully conscious at the time. “Don’t cry (y/n)” Kili murmured. I quickly wiped away the tears that escaped from my eyes. Kili shouldn't see me cry, not now when he's feeling sick. 

“Rasup leshon Kili, I don’t like seeing you in pain”. I replied holding a sob.

Kili moved slowly and took my hand in his with a weak grasp.

“Gronit nai bi leshon (y/n), if a dwarven warrior like you is by my side, we have nothing to fear.”

“Kili, rasup nos men, I will not leave your side until you are recovered.” I whispered squeezing Kili’s hand slightly. He closed back his eyes, drifting into a distant dream.

“Athelas!” Bofur exclaimed suddenly. “We need Athelas to cure Kili’s wound. I’ll go and find it” Bofur claimed and ran out of Bard’s home in less than a second. “I wasn’t expecting that” - Óin snorted – “But I guess its better than doing nothing”.

Athelas. I repeated on my mind. Gandalf had told me once about this plant. He told me that the leaves of the plant were magical and that they could heal any wound, even the ones who didn’t had remedy. All this time I had thought that such plant was just a fairytale that Gandalf had told me for amusement. But it seems that it really exists. If Bofur finds it we could cure Kili.

The hours passed and the skies darkened. I couldn't stop thinking about how Thorin and the rest of the company would be. Bard’s house shacked from time to time. Had the dragon already woken up?

Fili and Òin seemed to be more concerned with Kili's condition than with the tremors. Tilda, Sigrid, and Bain argued with his father about things I didn't understand, and Bofur hadn't returned yet.

I continued to hold Kili's hand in mine and help Òin where I could. But there wasn`t much I could do for my friend. Another earthquake shook the house, this one stronger than the others.

"Dad, will we die here? Will the dragon come for us?" Tilda asked her father scared. I must admit that the idea of a dragon flying over our heads was not very pretty, but we couldn't do anything about it.

"No, he won't… if I kill the dragon first." Bard declared valiantly taking a huge metal arrow that he had kept hanging on his ceiling. The arrow was covered in dust, but it was still useful. Luckily, Òin and Fili were distracted by Kili’s condition. If they realized Bard actually had weapons to give them when they paid him… it would not end well.

Bard left the house together with Bain, I wish they have luck in their mission. Although killing a dragon seems like a risky and unlikely idea to me for a bargeman and his son. Sigrid and Tilda started to pack provisions, in case we needed to leave the house. I hope that doesn't happen though.

It wasn't long after Bard and Bain left when footsteps and knocks were heard outside the house. Had Bard returned yet?

“Bain and father must be back!”- Tilda cheered happily handing her sister a bunch of blankets and food.

"I'll go out and take a look”- Sigrid sighed as she stopped packing supplies in a bag.  - “Although… I don't think our brother and father had returned yet" Sigrid suspected as if reading my mind.

She went outside and started calling for her father. There was no answer. Something was wrong. There was no sign of Bard, nor Bain. Someone was lurking around the house, in the shadows, waiting for us to make a mistake.

Sigrid, concerned, turned to enter the house. That’s when I saw him, an orc, standing behind the girl. Sigrid felt the presence of the horrible being almost immediately. She fleetingly turned to face the despicable creature and let out a piercing scream that shook us all.

The orc pounced on her and Sigrid stepped back, blocking the entrance with the door. Another orc entered the house from the roof and then another through the window. They were like a plague.

Fili began to fight them and Òin threw what he found at their faces, but there were too many orcs for two dwarves to defeat alone. Tilda's screams were deafening, enough to drive the orcs away from her. She hid under the table alongside her sister.

My time as a bystander ended when an orc fixed his attention on Kili and me. "Oh no" I muttered, the orc was too big for me to fight against and Kili was in no condition to hold a dagger.

My first instinct was to throw the bowl of water I was holding at the monster. It did hurt the beast, but not as much as I wanted, on the contrary, it made him even more angry. The orc growled and raised his sword. He looked at me with hate and uttered something in an unknown language. Every word full of poison.

I wanted to scream, stand up, and run away. But I couldn't, fear had taken over me. I was frightened and couldn't even move. The hideous monster rushed furiously in my direction, ready to behead me. I could already visualize my head nailed to a stake. I closed my eyes and held Kili’s hand tighter waiting for my doom to come. “Farewell Kili” I muttered as tears fell down my cheeks.

The footsteps that seemed like thunder suddenly stopped. I didn’t felt any kind of mortal pain. Had I already died? When I opened my eyes, I saw the body of the orc lying on the ground. And a familiar blond elf standing behind him. It was Prince Legolas, he had saved me, me and Kili.

The Prince of Mirkwood eyed me for a moment, taking in my state of shock. Then he looked at Kili with an expression akin to pity which quickly turned to disgust. Still, the blond elf had saved my life, something I never thought would happen. He could make whatever faces he wanted. I can't blame him for being jealous of Kili, in the end he would have to accept that Tauriel's heart does not belong to him.

"T- th- thank you" I stuttered forcing the words out of my mouth. Prince Legolas offered me a smile and nodded. It was the second time that Legolas proves to be more than a spoiled prince. I think I had misjudged him. There is more goodness in him than I ever thought to find.

“Behind you!” I warned with a scream and the prince quickly returned to the fight. But Legolas had not been the only elf who had come to our rescue. An elf with familiar pretty reddish hair was fighting against the horrible orcs. It was Tauriel, who bravely fought against those monstrosities. Oh! if only Kili could open his eyes and see Tauriel. I'm sure he would recover in a heartbeat.

The orcs were soon outmatched by the two elven warriors and fled from Bard’s house. Legolas without thinking twice rushed to chase them. But before Tauriel followed her friend I managed to capture her attention.

"Tauriel! Wait don't go" I yelled. The elleth turned to look at me. Her eyes widened significantly when she saw Kili lying on the bed.

"We need your help Tauriel! Kili is wounded, only you can save him!" I pleaded running towards Tauriel and hugging her.

“(y/n), I need to go…” Tauriel tried to explain herself, but she never took her eyes off Kili. The dwarf cried and tossed around at the intense pain he felt, the poison wouldn’t take long to kill him.

“He is dying Tauriel! Please!” I begged the red haired elleth with anguish on my voice.

“I’m back!” - Bofur exclaimed bursting through the door – “It was hard, but I found it.” He claimed triumphantly raising the athelas into the air.

Tauriel approached Bofur and took the plant from his hand. She looked at Kili who agonized being slowly consumed by the poison.

"Tauriel! Let's go!" a scream was heard from outside. It was Legolas who called for her, to follow him into the battle.

The elleth stood by the door, in silence. It was a hard decision for her. But Tauriel was an elleth who possessed a kind spirit, she had already demonstrated it to me in Mirkwood. Tauriel would only listen to the voice in her heart.

“I’ll help” Tauriel finally answered moving towards Kili and checking his wound. Tauriel’s words made me feel relived, or at least, a little more at ease. Tilda and Sigrid came out from their hiding place. Sigrid quickly closed the doors and windows, however there wasn’t much to be done about the hole on the roof.

“I’ll help” Tilda offered squeezing my hand in reassurance. “Thanks” I muttered back with genuine appreciation.

“Clear the table and place him there” Tauriel instructed to the dwarfs who quickly threw everything that was above the table into the floor. “(y/n), please you and your friend bring towels and a bowl of hot water.” Tauriel continued referring to me and Tilda. We both as well followed rapidly Tauriel’s instruction desiring to help the best that we could.

The dwarfs placed Kili above the table struggling to hold him down. Kili wouldn’t stop moving, the pain inflicted by the wound becoming now unbearable. Tauriel washed the leaves of the athelas on the bowl of water and cleaned her hands. The red haired elleth then placed the plant directly onto Kili’s wound and started to speak in an unknown language.

Kili at first hissed in pain but a few seconds later he calmed down. Tauriel’s words soothing him into a deep sleep. It was magical, and Tauriel seemed to beam a pure luminous energy.

Kili’s wound was soon patched up and he went back to a deep sleep. Tauriel never left his side.

I sat in the kitchen, I was exhausted, and I think the others were too. After a bad day in Laketown everything ended well. “I have heard about the wonders of elven medicine, but I never had the chance to see it by myself. It was a privilege to watch her.” Òin commented sitting beside me. Fili and Bofur following his actions as well.

“We were very lucky, if she hadn't stayed, I think we'd be telling a different story.” Fili remarked. Fili still looked concerned. But it’s not his fault, he was the one who was scared the most with his brother's condition.

“Well, we now can rest. We deserve it after all we went through today.” Bofur sighed.

We stayed there, in a comfortable silence. Happy to be together and fine. Soon I started to feel tired, not being able to keep my eyes open. “Are you tired gasur?” Fili asked seeing how I couldn’t even hold myself straight.

“Yes, I am exhausted” I yawned rubbing my eyes. Fili and the others smiled, finding my situation somewhat funny. “Then go to sleep, we’ll watch over you, don’t worry.” Bofur said patting my back and directing me towards the nearest bed.

I fell asleep immediately, I only heard indistinct voices in the distance and felt someone placing a blanket over me. I was sleeping soundly when suddenly I felt a strong tremor, strong enough to bring down a house.

“Child! (y/n)! Come on! Wake up!” Someone was shacking me in an attempt to get me out of bed. I slowly opened my eyes and I saw Fili. “Is something wrong?” I questioned still feeling drowsy and unable to wake up fully.  

“No, but it will be if we don’t hurry up.” He answered picking me up in his arms and rushing outside the house.

“Why?” I asked hugging his neck.

“The dragon is coming.”

Words in Khuzdul

Der Mump – Evil Troll, Rasup leshon – I’m afraid, Gronit nai bi leshon - Don’t be afraid, Rasup nos men – I’m with you, Gasur – child.

 -The first time Mablung saw you he felt enchanted. He couldn’t get his eyes off you. He was afraid you thought he was a creep, but your beauty was irresistible to him. 

-For Mablung, your beauty surpassed the one of Luthien and you shined brighter than the silmarill in his eyes.

 -It was impossible not to notice Mablung’s gaze from afar. Mablung was always wore a neutral face, but this time, he couldn’t hide his feelings.

-He blushed when your eyes met his or he quickly turned his face away “making sure” there was no danger around. But he fooled none.

-Mablung had to use his influence in the city to discover your name and the place where you worked.

-It was easy for you to notice the famed warrior. Especially such a handsome warrior. 

 -You started encountering with him more regularly around the halls of Menergoth. This was never a bother, it could be considered as luck even.

-The kingsguard started patrolling the areas that you frequented. It was surely not a thing of fate. And Mablung was always with the guards that crossed your path. 

 -Beleg and the other soldiers didn’t took long to notice his strange behavior. The focused and serious Mablung was now inattentive and distant. 

 -Mablung started smiling without any clear reason. Daydreamed when watching the passing clouds or the moon. And drifted away in his own thoughts. Only the Valar know what was on his mind. 

 -Beleg started to think he was falling ill. There was no other logical explanation for Mablung’s rare behaivor. Or maybe he needed some urgent vacations.

-Even so, Mablung ached for meeting you, but he did not dare to say a single phrase to you. When a word was just about to leave his mouth a lump formed on his throat not permiting him to speak.

-Mablung had two weaknesses, you and a very much deserved drink after spending a great amount of time away home.

-Mablung had more than one drink this time and Beleg took advantage of the situation in order to discover what was wrong with Mablung. 

-Mablung confessed his feelings towards you to Beleg, and maybe many unnecessary details too.

-Mablung admited his great agony was due to his cowardness. He was too scared to ask you out, afraid you’d reject him and break his heart. That’s why everytime he came up to you he ended up looking like a fool when he tried to speak.

 -The next day Mablung regretted telling Beleg about his feelings when he was drunk during the night on the tavern.

-Not because he didn’t wanted his friend to know about his feelings for you. But because Beleg will tease him for the rest of his days. 

 -Since that day, Beleg wouldn't stop pestering Mablung. During training, patrolling, even in front of King Thingol.

-“Why did you let me win this time? Have (y/n) made your heart soften?”

-“Smiling alone again? Thinking about (y/n)?”

-”Why are you suddenly out of words? Is (y/n) around?”

 -But Mablung would take advantage of the situation as he always do.

-On the past he didn’t had anyone to talk about his feelings for you. King Thingol would have found it strange and there was no one he trusted as much as Beleg.

-Beleg became Mablung's confidant (a decision Beleg didn’t made). This was something the elf would regret later. 

-At every given opportunity, Mablung would start speaking about you to Beleg. At first it was fine, but Beleg was getting tired of listening of the same topic.

 -Soon enough, Beleg was exhausted of Mablung’s monologues about your perfect smile and beautiful eyes.

-So one day, Beleg couldn’t resist anymore of the daily monologue and in an attempt to shut Mablung’s mouth he came up to you and casually mentioned Mablung’s enormous crush on you.

-Mablung would have choked Beleg right there if it hadn’t been for your sweet giggle and your curious look.

 -Mablung acted awkward at first, but when he saw you had no intention to reject him he started to loosen up. 

 -Beleg was extremely proud of his matchmaker skills. He made sure to remind Mablung of it once in a while.

-Its very likely your relationship started up as a friendship which slowly bloomed into great love. -Being in a relationship with Mablung is like living a dream. His love is warm and he never takes you for granted. 

 -Mablung loves to spend lots of time with you. For him, each minute is precious. Every moment spent with this elf is like an escape from the harsh reality and cruel wars. 

 -He loves to take you out on dates. He’ll show you his favorite spots around Menergoth. He’ll invite you to taste the best food. And will even take you for a ride through the woods of Doriath. Of course he will insist both only use one horse.

-Another of the privileges of courting Mablung is being able to watch him train and give combat lessons to the younger elven soldiers. And if he takes off his shirt, you’ll enjoy it even more. 

 -The young ones will tease Mablung when they notice you, but it doesn’t bother him, he likes to know you are watching him. 

-He might even show off a little, for the young warriors to learn, clearly.

-When Mablung uses his complete armor he looks very handsome. One of the benefits of his profession. 

 -Mablung may need to act stern when other soldiers or when the King is around. But he is always very sweet with you. 

-The soft way he treats you doesn’t compare to the stoic way with which he addresses his soldiers.

 -Unfortunately, Mablung’s job keeps him away for very long periods of time. He may need someone who can handle themselves when he is not present. He needs someone who’s independent.

-Mablung has seriously considered faking a sickness just to stay a little longer with you. But his honorable and strict moral code wouldn’t let him do that. But if you ask him... maybe he’ll do it.

-After long periods of time away, the reunions are very emotional. Sometimes you’ll end up crying while holding each other. Especially if you knew Mablung was going on a dangerous mission.

 -You are Mablung’s most valuable possession. He can loose anything but you. He has vowed to himself to protect you, even if he no longer lived to see you again. 

-Mablung has seen so much evilness, death, and misery in his life. He doesn't wants you to experience the same. 

-One of his deepest fears is losing you. He is afraid someone may use you to cause him harm. It’s not fair for you to get affected by his problems. 

 -That’s why he is so interested in teaching you self-defense. Even if it’s a few movements. It gives him peace of mind to know you are not completely defenseless.

-When Mablung is around Menergoth, you may visit him from time to time in the barracks. 

 -Army guards have grown accustomed to your visits. They even enjoy them, especially when you bring some food or treat for them. 

-They are happy for his commander to have such a good-hearted partner by his side.

-When Mablung is informed of your visit he’ll rush to meet you. 

 -You’ll end up volunteering as a healer or a cook in the army to spend more time around Mablung.

-Doriath elves are grateful to have Mablung as warrior and protector of Menergoth, so expect to receive many grateful gifts.

-From jewels to chickens. Everything is appreciated.

-Mablung has many friends because of his job. And everyone is aware of how much Mablung cares for you. 

-Menergoth elves care deeply for you because of being the partner of a renowned warrior. And they’ll love you even more if you treat them kindly. 

-The Queen is well aware of this and may ask you to help her out in social events.

-Mablung, as loved as he is, he is also respected. No one will dare to put a hand on you. It’s a guarantee. 

-No living being would dare to provoke Mablung’s anger, especially when King Thingol has you both in such high regard. 

“The spies are everywhere.” - Bain, Bard’s son added -“The Master gives them money in exchange of their loyalty.”

Money for loyalty? These people don’t have any demup.

“That’s awful!”- I hissed angrily. -“Has it always been like this?”

“Most of the people here have been living poorly for many years… so I guess it has always been like this,” Bain explained with sadness in his voice.

“Well then, my friends and I are lucky, we found you! Your father and you seem to have good hearts.” I commented with a cheerful tone which earned a smile from Bain.

Bard stopped before a wooden house. I suppose it’s his home.

“Father those men over there,” Bain whispered to his father’s ear looking down at two men who were fishing.

Bard whistled getting the attention of both men.

“Tell the Master I’m done for today.”

He took an apple out of his coat’s pocket and threw it to them. Bard only received a dark and gloomy look from the men.

Surely they were the ones spying on Bard’s house as Bain said before. It’s really sad how money can buy them so easily. Then I guess, it’s how the world of men works.

Bard opened the door of his house and inside there were two young girls.

“Dad! You are here!”

“We were worried for you!”

The two girls greeted their father with a warm hug. A strange feeling stung my chest at their gesture, I missed that kind of hugs too.

I still remember how I used to hug my father when he was back from work. He used to spin me around in the air and kiss my cheek.

Now I don’t get the same feeling easily.

“Girls this is (y/n)”

Bard was quick to introduce me to his daughters which caught me off guard.

“Hello” I greeted the girls not being able to properly lock gazes with them. I felt nervous about meeting them for some weird reason. Just how I felt moments ago when I met Bain. Besides, it’s been a long time since I had the chance to properly talk with someone close to my age.

“Bain, get them in now.”

The young boy rushed down some stairs and knocked three times on the wooden wall of the house. A toilet seat slowly lifted revealing Dwalin’s angry face.

“If you speak of this to anyone I’ll reap your arms off.”

There it goes, I warned Bard about the Dwarfs’ grumpiness. Although this is a sight I will be never able to forget.

“Dad… why dwarfs are coming out of our toilet?”

“Will they bring us luck?”

The girls curiously asked looking down at the same scene as me.

“I don’t think so,” I mumbled looking at Dwalin who walked near me grumbling some nonsense.

The youngest of the girls turned to look at me with wide eyes.

“Are you a dwarf too?”

I chuckled at the girl’s question. Do I look like a dwarf? Maybe after spending time with them, I got some of their mannerisms, but do I look like them now?

“No, I’m human as you but I’m staying with them until I find a new home.”

The girl offered me a sweet smile and extended her hand.

“My name is Tilda, and she is my sister Sigrid.”

“My name is (y/n).”

I introduced myself to both girls less timidly than before.

Tilda gasped when she noticed the red bruise on my arm. “How did you got that?”

“Oh… well… one of the guards took hold of me way too roughly.”

Sigird scoffed taking delicately hold of my arm.

“Those brutes… They act all “strong” and “strict” but they are just some dumb savages.” - Sigrid commented irritated - “Tilda get some ointment and bandages, please. I still can’t believe they can treat an innocent child like this.”

Tilda rushed to where there was a big wooden trunk. She opened it and grabbed a piece of cloth and some strange green ointment.

“Sigrid… it’s alright, I have been through worst situations.” I tried to calm the eldest girl.

“Worst? What had happened to you?” Tilda questioned as she handed the ointment to her sister.

“Tilda!” Her eldest sister scolded her. -“What have I told you about the inappropriate questions.”

The little girl, full of shame, lowered her head at her sister’s words. Sigrid applied the gooey ointment on my arm’s skin and bandaged gently the bruised zone.

“Thank you”- I smiled looking at my arm -“And… asking about my past doesn’t bother me. It’s just hard to talk about it sometimes.”

Thanks to the gods Tilda looked less ashamed by my recent words.

“Sigrid get some dry clothes for the dwar- guests and please add some wood to the fireplace.”

Bard said to her eldest daughter which quickly obeyed him standing up from her place and moving rapidly around the house.

“If it’s alright to ask… Can you tell me how you met the dwarfs?” Tilda asked curiously.

After my short time here in Laketown I came up with a theory of my own: Living in Lake Town must be boring and that’s why Tilda asks too many questions.

Maybe she wants to know about the outer world. It’s completely understandable, some people of Lake Town seem to be awful. Like Alfrid, the der mump. Oh! How I despise that man.

“It is a long story…” How do I tell the story to Tilda without crying? I needed the answer to that question quickly. I can’t just tell her about the horrible fate of my village. It’s not that simple.

But… I’m a dwarven warrior! I have fought with orcs, insulted a pompous Elven King, survived the ugly spiders of Mirkwood… surely I can get through this.

“My village… was attacked.” -I took a deep breath hoping to prevent myself from getting sad, although it felt like an impossible task.

“The dwarves found me and healed my wounds. They decided that I was to stay with them until they find me a new home.”

“I’m sorry,” Tilda whispered holding my hand in hers as I wiped off a few tears that rolled down my cheeks. -“You know, I lost my mom not so long ago, I still miss her.”

“Well, at least you still have your father and siblings. You are with your family.” I commented.

“Yes, I guess they are the ones who support me. But aren’t the dwarfs like your family? A family cares for each other, and as far as you have told me the dwarfs do care for you.”

Oh… I wasn’t expecting that. Probably the girl was right. The dwarfs were always looking out for me since the first day that I met them. Even Bilbo concerns himself with my well-being.

“Yes, they are my family.”

The arguing between The Company and Bard captured our attention and we stayed silent watching them talk.

“An iron hook and a hammer?”

“They are heavy I know but in defense of your life this will serve you.” Bard tried to resonate with the dwarfs, but I am sure they were not having it.

Gloin slammed the table angrily and raised his voice.

“We paid for iron weapons, swords, and axes! NOT THIS!”

All the dwarfs were grumbling and arguing now. I wonder if Bard can resist their stubbornness. I warned him.

“Are they always this grumpy?” Tilda muttered so I could only listen.

“Yes, it’s the nature of dwarfs. But I like it because they are also honorable, honest, and have generally good intentions.”

Not many people can get to know the good side of dwarfs. I am sure I can consider myself fortunate to have met them like that.

Bard continued trying to explain the situation to the dwarfs but they were not listening to him. “There is nothing better outside the town’s armory, the weapons are there under lock and key.”

“Thorin we can leave. We have fought with less than these.” Balin suggested.

“You can't leave, the city is being watched by the Master's servants, you will have to wait for nightfall.” Bard declared but the dwarfs were not satisfied. Although, Tilda on the other side, did look pleased by her father’s words.

“Well, it means you’ll stay more time with me!” Tilda happily cheered.

I felt happy about that too. She was a nice girl and her company was enjoyable.

“Come with me I’ll show you my toys.” She said and dragged me across the house. We sat at a table and she placed on top of it a little box with some wooden figures. She handed me a wooden figure of… an elf?

“Tilda, is this an elf?” I asked as I analyzed curiously the wooden figure.

“Yes, it is, my father made these wooden figures for my siblings and me. I wish one day I can meet one. Have you seen one?”

The image of King Thranduil instantly flashed across my mind. That gorach khulum. Oh! And there was also Prince Legolas who… well I have mixed feelings for him because he saved Thorin from an orc. But then again, not all elves were like them. There was also Tauriel who was a kind elleth. And I can’t forget about the drunken Mirkwood guards who let us escape.

“Yes I have, they are… an intriguing race.”

Tilda’s eyes lit up at my words and she started bouncing back and forth on her sit.

“Wow! That sounds exciting! Did you had the chance to talk with one of them?”

“Yes, one of the khalam was nice. She was an elleth with long and silky red hair that shined like fire. She gave me a strange food that elves eat that is called lembas, it tastes like bread.”

“Amazing!” Tilda was very thrilled with the story I told her about Tauriel, but shortly her face changed to one of confusion.

“(y/n) what does khalam means?”

Oh no! I scolded myself internally. How do I come to forget that she doesn’t know about khuzdul? That’s why she probably asked me at first if I was a dwarf.

“Forgive me, Tilda. That’s the language of dwarfs, it’s called khuzdul.” - I turned around and pointed to where Kili and Fili were resting. - “Those dwarves over there taught me their language.” Fili and Kili noticed us from afar and I waved to them.

They both smiled in my direction, but I could notice there was something wrong with Kili, he didn’t look the same as always. Does he feels sick because of the barrel ride? Or does he was missing Tauriel?

“Oh! Now I understand.” - Tilda giggled waving back too at Fili and Kili.- “Can you teach me some of it?”

Tilda wanted me to teach her? Wonderful! At last, I found someone genuinely interested in the dwarven culture.

“Sure, for example… khalam means elves. And human is traduced as burm.”

Tilda was fascinated with all the khuzdul words that I thought her. She was even able to form a phrase which was: “Men bi tnam Tilda”, which means “My name is Tilda.”

The night was falling and the dwarfs seemed more restless with the time passing. I wondered what they were planning to do. Probably something dangerous, Bilbo's frightened expression gave away their intentions. I felt a hand on my shoulder.

“(y/n) it’s time for us to leave.”

It was Fili who spoke.

NO! I didn’t wanted to leave I was having a great time with Tilda. I slowly turned around on my chair to face him, a melancholic expression on my face.

“Right now?” I questioned with slight trembling in my voice.

“Yes, right now gasur. Don’t worry you have time to say goodbye, we’ll wait for you.”

Fili walked away with the rest of The Company and I turned around to face Tilda again. But she was now crying! Less than a second and she was already drowning in tears.

“Tilda there is no need to cry-“ Without having a chance to pronounce another word she jumped out from her seat and hugged me tightly.

“I don’t want you to leave.” She muttered against my shoulder.

I slowly wrapped my arms around her. The hug I was yearning to have finally happened, the same warm and sweet feeling I wanted returned. Something inside me told me that my friendship with Tilda would not end here.

“We’ll see each other again. I’m sure.”

“Are you sure?”

“Yes, I am.”

“(y/n) it’s time to leave,” Thorin called for me.

I slowly separated from Tilda and got up from my seat.

“Goodbye Tilda,” I muttered containing my tears from falling down.

“Goodbye (y/n),” Tilda said.

I walked towards the rest of the company. Fili noticed my depressed face and patted my back trying to cheer me up.

“Now (y/n), don’t be sad, remember you are a dwarven warrior. Didn’t you said it yourself? And a dwarven warrior doesn’t get sad.”

“You are right Fili, I am a dwarven warrior,” I said proudly looking up at him. The blond dwarf was right, I needed to be brave.

“You can’t leave!” - Bain exclaimed blocking the main entrance of the house - “My father said the Master’s guards are searching for you all around Laketown, it’s not secure to leave.”

“Your father said to wait until nightfall and that’s what we did. We can’t wait any longer.” Thorin severely answered the boy.

“Tell your father we are thankful for his help.” - Balin said to the young boy -“But we must leave now.”

And with those last words, The Company of Thorin silently left Bard’s house with the firm purpose to return to the Lonely Mountain.

Meaning of the Khuzdul words

Demup-honor, Gasur-child, Gorach Khulum - stupid elf, Khalam-elves, Burm-human, Der Mump - evil troll, Men bi tnam- my name is…

💙 Fingolfin

-Dating Fingolfin and keeping it as a secret is a hard task. But only for you because he can hide his emotions from others pretty good.

-Fingolfin is extremely discreet and knows how to hide his emotions from others. He has mastered this ability throughout the years (It was Feanor’s fault). No one will ever notice he has a romantic interest in you.

-Of course he uses his abilities on his favor. For example, Fingolfin can bring you to public celebrations or events trusting that no one will think you both are courting.

-Although Feanor is the first one to suspect you both are dating. Eru forbid he catches you in one of your secret dates because you can consider your secret the newest tea from Tirion. A nice tea ready to spill.

-Feanor may even try to persuade his father to punish or scold Fingolfin for his behavior, but Finwe is way too happy with the news of your courtship to care about that.

💙 Fingon

-Fingon is the first-born of an important royal family and has lots of things to deal with. It’s no surprise he wants to keep your relationship in secret.

-People and other elves would think you both are very close friends, or at least that’s how the servants of the palace explain your continuous visits.

-Fingon is a sweetheart, and he will send lots of romantic secret letters and notes to you without anyone noticing. He may write some cheesy things on them, but they never fail to make you smile.

-Maedhros maybe will notice his cousin’s strange behavior towards you. The way he looks at you, or the way he smiles when he sees you entering a room.

-Maedhros won’t stop bothering Fingon until he tells him the truth. Maitimo will turn out to be the only living being on Middle Earth to know you are secretly dating his cousin. Thanks the Valar, Maitimo keeps your relationship as a secret too.

💙Turgon

-Turgon it’s kind of secretive, maybe this is why he agreed to date you in secret. The relationship it’s only between both of you, no need to make it from public domain.

-Although it doesn’t matters if your relationship is secret or not, Turgon is completely in love with you. Be sure he’ll remind you about that everyday, both with words and sweet gestures.

-Lots of your favorite flowers will be sent to your home at least twice a week. Or he will personally go and bring you little trinkets or your favorite dessert.

-The ones who are close to you will start wondering, From where you get all those gifts? And specially, WHY you get all those gifts?

-Everyone might assume Turgon has a crush on you, or that he is trying to ask you out… but they don’t realize until it’s to late because you both are one step ahead already.

💙Aredhel

-If Aredhel decides to keep your relationship hidden… be sure the reasons are unknown. No one knows what made her act in this way. She is a quite extroverted elleth, Why would she keep your relationship in secret?

-Even though we all know that she loves the thrill that comes with having a secret relationship. Not being caught, keeping the dates underneath the surface…

-Aredhel loves to tease you in public, she likes to see how far you can go and how willing you are to keep the secret of the relationship.

-She has lots of inner jokes with you too. Specially jokes involving the fact that everyone is oblivious to your relationship.

-Celegorm will definitely know about the relationship, maybe Aredhel didn’t spilled the secret to his cousin. But he knows her pretty well… he knows when she is hiding something. Besides the winks she sends on your direction are not missed by Celegorm.

💙Argon

-Argon doesn’t likes other people mingling in his affairs. He values privacy, and he is tired of his family and cousins getting involved in his life. That’s why he may like to have a secret relationship.

-Argon can’t stand intrigued gazes at your direction or curious comments from others about you. He gets really jealous when someone insinuates you are pretty or that they wish to court you.

-In private Argon is authentic and behaves freely just as he is. However, in public it is very difficult for him to control his urge to kiss you or hold your hand.

-Sometimes Argon will just intertwine gently his finger with yours only to remind you that he adores you. And it’s another way to tell you he’s always thinking about you.

-Argon may escape alongside you from formal and boring events to the gardens so you can spend some time alone. It feels like a real adventure trying to hide from the guards and guests.

The man looked at me, narrowing his eyes and cautiously examining me. Oh no! I probably spoke more than I should. I gave a step back shyly hiding behind Thorin. He noticed my nervousness as the other man gave me and Bilbo a quizzical look.

Thorin looked down at me and I met his eyes. His expression softened while he took my tiny hand in his and gave it a squeeze. I didn’t needed any words of reassurance to know that Thorin was willing to protect me.

“We need food, supplies, weapons. Can you help us?” Thorin asked the man, directly to the point as he usually does. Thorin and some other dwarfs like Dwalin had enough niceties for a day. And I think my unease towards the man wasn’t helping much.

“I know where these barrels came from.” The man sighed. “I don’t know what business you had with the elves, but I don’t think it ended well. No one enters Lake-town but by lead of the master.” He finished still unconvinced to help us.

Thorin turned to look at Balin, giving him a pleading look for help. We needed to convince the man to let us get in his barge. Otherwise we were going to be completely lost, and hungry, and in danger... a experience I don’t wish to live again.

“I’ll wager there are ways to enter that town unseen.” Balin said, as if he was “suggesting” it to the man. “Aye. But for that you would need a smuggler.” He pointed. Ha! Smuggler! If he only knew what we were going to do on the mountain.

“For which we would pay double” Balin proposed tentatively to the man. The man looked back at us for a brief moment, pondering his decision. “Get in before I regret it.” he said and all The Company rushed and jumped inside of the barge.

While I was looking for a place to settle I felt the cold breeze running through my spine. I was very wet, it was no surprise I was trembling. "Achoo!" I sneezed, covering my nose with my hands.

"Take this child, you're very wet. If you don't warm up soon you'll catch a cold." said the man offering me a small blanket. “Thank you" I replied wrapping myself in the blanket.

Maybe this man wasn’t bad at all, although it will take a lot of time to trust him. Im still not sure if he’ll keep his promise to help the dwarfs.

Bilbo who was near me saw the scene. “What is your name?" he asked the man. "My name is Bard" he replied as the boat began to move away from the river bank. “Its a pleasure to meet you Bard, my name is Bilbo Baggins.” Bilbo introduced himself politely.

Bilbo has always been very courteous. I wonder if all the other hobbits are as polite and courteous as him.

“And this...” Bilbo continued placing his hand on my shoulder. “This is (y/n)” Bilbo finished as I offered a shy smile to Bard. He smiled back at me “I have some children like you back at home.” He commented.

Other children... it’s been a while since I last talked, or even saw children of my age. The last children I saw were my friends. I last saw them in the horrible day in which my village was... gone.

“Will I have the chance to meet them?” I asked hopefully. It would be nice to meet some new friends, friends around my age. “You will” Bard answered as he steered the barge through thick fog.

Bilbo and me walked to where the dwarfs were sitting. I sat next to Ori, he was trembling from the cold like me some moments ago. “Ori take this” I offered as I unwrapped myself from the blanket.

“Dolzekh menu, but aren’t you cold (y/n)?” Ori asked concerned taking the blanket from my hands. “Not anymore” I assured him. “Alright, but I want to share it.” he said placing the blanket over our legs. “We’ll both be warm in this way” he smiled. I thanked Ori for his kind gesture.

“Watch out!” Bofur shouted as we nearly hit one big stone. Bard avoided the stone smoothly and calmly, as if it was nothing.

“Are you trying to drown us?” Thorin questioned Bard with threatening voice. “Believe me Master Dwarf. If I were going to drown you, I wouldn’t do it here” Bard replied, but the dwarfs were not fully convinced by his words.

“I’ve had enough of this lippy lake-man.” Dwalin grumbled in a low voice. “Oh please! His name is Bard.” Bilbo implored crossing both arms over his chest. “How do you know?” Dwalin huffed annoyed. “Uh... I asked him” Bilbo simply answered.

“I don’t like him” Dwalin muttered angrily, giving the poor Bard a murderous look. “We only have to pay him, we don’t have to like him” Balin remarked as he counted some coins the dwarfs were going to use to pay the lippy lake-man as Dwalin said before.

“Come on, now. Turn out your pockets.” Balin continued. The dwarfs sighed and groaned as they pulled their coins out. In a reluctant manner they handed their coins to Balin. I checked my own pockets, probably I still have one of the coins Thorin gifted to me long ago. I want to help my friends too.

As I registered myself I found a single silver coin. Surprisingly it still was on my pocket, I thought it was lost on the river’s waters when we escaped from Mirkwood.

“I only have this” I said placing the shiny silver coin with the rest of the money. Balin chuckled and looked up at me, “(y/n), men daor, you don’t need to give us your coins.”

Balin extended his hand to give me back the silvery coin. “But I want to help...” I insisted pushing his hand back. “Take the coin please, I know you need it.” I pleaded. A soft smile formed on Balin’s face, “You have a good heart gasur.”

“How do we know he won’t betray us?” Dwalin’s voice interrupted us. I can’t believe he is still angry at the poor Bard. I'm sure he would have thrown us overboard by now if his intentions were bad. “We don’t” Thorin muttered back.

Rubbing his forehead, Balin interrupted the grumpy conversation between Thorin and Dwalin. “Um... we have a problem. We’re ten coins short.” Balin sighed. The members of the company looked between them nervously. “Gloin, come on. Give us what you have.” Thorin ordered.

Gloin made an exasperated gasp and raised his eyebrows at Thorin’s command. “Don’t look at me!” He complained crossing his arms. “I have been bled dry by this venture!” Gloin argued vividly, gesturing aggresively while he spoke.

“What have I seen for my investment?”

“Gloin”

“Nothing but misery and grief and…..”

“Gloin”

“What happens (y/n)? Don’t you see I’m trying to defend myself?”

“There’s your investment” I said pointing up.

Gloin turned around and finally saw what the other dwarves were admiring. The Mountain, Erebor. It was just a shadow, but the majesty of it was unmistakable.

“Bless my beard” Gloin whispered amazed. “Take it, Take all of it” he continued handing quickly his bag of coins to Balin.

Suddenly Bilbo cleared his throat, Bard was approaching us. “The money, quick. Give it to me” He urged. “We will pay you when we get our provisions.” Thorin demanded. “The guards are ahead. If you value your freedom do as I say.” Bard insisted.

The dwarves including me looked ahead. As Bard said, there was a port full of men. “Hide inside the barrels.” Bard instructed impatiently.

The dwarves soon realized there was not a better option than to follow his order. “You better not betray us lake-man” hissed Dwalin in a low voice getting inside of a barrel.

“Get in here (y/n)” Nori said carrying me up and placing me inside of one barrel. “Wait! The child doesn’t needs to hide.” Bard pointed carrying me out from the barrel I was in and placing me back on the boat’s floor.

"Didn't you said that no one entered lake-town without the consent of the master?" Nori claimed somewhat confused.

“(y/n) is a human child, not a dwarf. It’ll be easier to convince the guards to let the child in.” he said. Nori turned to look back at me concerned and patted softly the top of my head. “Be careful” he mumbled getting closer to my ear. “Menu an Nori.” I whispered back giving him a hug before he got inside a barrel.

All the dwarves and Bilbo got quickly inside of the barrels before they were seen. “Bard” I called quietly for him as we approached the port. He hummed in response, his eyes flickering to the port ahead us. “What am I supposed to do?” I continued.

“Sit here and don’t say a word, I’ll take charge.” He answered as he walked towards the port. I sat on the barge as I fidgeted nervously my hands in my lap. Some seconds later I listened to some whispers.

“Ssh. What’s he doing?”

“He’s pointing right at us.”

“Now they’re shaking hands.”

“What?”

“He’s selling us out!”

The men of the port approached the barge, they didn’t even bothered to look at me. I wonder why Bard was so preoccupied about them. The men brought big buckets full of fish and started filling the barrels with them. Ewwww my friends will stink to iasc for a long time.

“All ready Bard!” Shouted one of the men when they were finished. “Aye, Thank you!” He answered back waving at the men. The barge moved forward away and my friends started to grumble. “Aren’t they going to asphyxiate inside the barrels? They are full of fish.” I asked Bard as I eyed preoccupied the barrels.

“No... they need to stay hidden in order to enter the town.” He responded as he steered the barge. More groans came out of the barrels. “Quiet! We’re approaching the toll gate.” Bard scolded the dwarves. I looked forward and as Bard said we were truly approaching Lake-town’s gate.

The town was pretty big, or at least more than what my village used to be. The constructions were mostly made out of wood and there were big pieces of ice floating on the water. It was a quite intriguing place.

“Halt! Goods inspection. Papers please!” A man shouted stepping out of his lodging. “Oh, it’s you, Bard!” He said in realization. “Morning, Percy.” he greeted the man.

“Oh! And you brought someone with you!” The man who’s name was Percy said. “Hello” I greeted him shyly, lowering my head. Percy chuckled as Bard gave him some papers.

“Anything to declare?” Percy asked. “Nothing” Bard sighed. “But I am cold and tired, and ready for home.” He continued. “You and me both.” Percy answered as he stamped Bard’s papers.

“There we are, all in order.” Oh! That was fast! I thought it was going to be more difficult to enter Lake-town. Then the Master isn’t really strict.

“Not so fast.” A man with a horrendous look appeared suddenly and various guards behind him. He took the papers from Percy’s hand and began to read them. Oh no! Not now!... This man is surely going to bring problems.

“Consignment of empty barrels from the Woodland realm...” The man read the papers cautiously. “Only they’re not empty. Are they Bard?” Questioned the ugly man. But Bard only kept silent gazing at him.

“If I recall correctly, you’re licensed as a bargeman. Not… a fisherman.” The irritant man continued taking one of the fish from the barrels. “And where this child came from? Didn’t you had already three?” He asked with venom in his voice.

My opinion of King Thranduil has changed now. I thought he was bad... and now I realize in front of me there’s an orc itself. Bard opened his mouth to speak but my voice cut him off.

“He saved me.” I answered firmly.

No... I was not letting this gorach brum to ruin Thorin’s mission, my friends’ mission.

“He... saved you.” The man repeated my last words with a irreverent tone.

“Yes... my village was taken by orcs. I escaped alive and walked without direction until Bard found me.” I explained. Maybe I changed the story a little... but it was mostly true.

Bard looked at me for a moment perplexed, trying to decide what to say. “Yes I did.” He finally spoke, following my game.

“I am sure the Master wouldn’t prohibit the entrance to an innocent child. Am I wrong Alfrid?”

“No, but he wouldn’t receive the child if it brings problems with it.” The man hissed.

This “Alfrid” is awful, how can men like him exist? King Thranduil is rather nice compared to him.

“I don’t bring any problems to the town.” I was quick to answer. “I’m sure the Master already has many misfortunesand miseryto deal with.” I challenged clenching my jaw.

Alfrid narrowed his eyes at me and then he turned to Bard. “The people in Lake-Town can’t trust in someone who brings illegal barrels of fish and an aggressive child.”

Aggressive? Really? He would have watched me with the orc back in the river. That was aggressive. Or when I called gorach khulumto the Elvenking... THAT was aggressive.

I clenched my fists tightly, trying not to say something else that would ruin our opportunity to get in. “Oh, come on, Alfrid. Have a heart, people need to eat. And this is just a child.” Bard implored.

“These fish are illegal, empty the barrels and take this child with the other orphans.” Alfrid commanded to the guards who stood behind him. “You heard him, in the canal!” One of them said.

“Don’t throw the fish!” I shouted walking quickly towards the guards but one of them grabbed my upper arm tightly. “Let me go!” I said wrestling with the guard. “You’ll go to a place where brats like you belong.” he growled trying to pull me away with him.

“Bard! Bard help me!” I begged desperately trampling the guard on his foot. “You bastard!” The guard gasped in pain and roughly grabbed my other arm.

“Folk in this town are struggling. Food is scarce.” Bard reminded Alfrid. “That’s not my problem.” Alfrid answered with an arrogant attitude.

“Bard! Help!” I cried hysterical. “Stop struggling!” The guard fumed squeezing tightly my little arm. “Ouch! It hurts!” I shrieked trying to free myself from his grip.

“And when the people hear the Master is dumping fish back in the lake? When the rioting starts? Will it be your problem then?” Bard told Alfrid with indignation.

Alfrid huffed angrily and gave a new command. “Stop!” He exclaimed and the guards stopped dumping the fish out of the barrels.

The guard who was holding me loosened his grip and I snatched my arm away. He glared at me before walking away from the barge. I took a look at my arm while I walked towards Bard, it got a big red mark on it.

“I’ll help you with that later” Bard muttered placing a hand on my shoulder and moving me behind him, away from Alfrid’s malicious gaze.

“Ever the people’s champion, hey, Bard? Protector of the common folk. You might have their favor now, bargeman, but it won’t last.” Alfrid nagged wickedly and walked away from the barge. “Rise the gate!” Percy ordered as Bard steered the barge forward the town.

“The Master has his eye on you. You’ll do well to remember, we know where you live.” Alfrid warned with threatening voice. Bard scoffed and answered “It’s a small town, Alfrid. Everyone knows where everyone lives.”

Some seconds later we were finally away from that ugly and evil “Alfrid”. He is like the villains of the stories my mom used to read to me. His name shouldn’t be “Alfrid” his name should be “Der mump” yep... much better.

As Bard navigated through Lake-Town I admired the buildings and houses, they were all completely made out of wood. It was cold and foggy and smelled like fish.

Well I was standing next to barrels full of fish, maybe the smell came from there. I wonder what Lake-Town has prepared for my friends and me.

Khuzdul word meanings:

Dolzekh menu- Thank you, Men daor- my dear, Gasur -child, Menu an- I will, Iasc- fish, Gorach Brum- stupid human, Gorach khulum - stupid elf, - Der Mump- evil troll.

Tags: @miriel-estelwen @sukeraa @quietly-scrolling-through @someoneinthestars @iwenttomordor-deactivated202107

-The hidden city of Gondolin has 12 mighty houses, and one of the most popular and loved by the Gondolindrim is The House of the Golden Flower, and its Lord Glorfindel is even more adored.

-You need to consider yourself lucky for being Glorfindel’s loved Lady, elves might admire and love you as much as they do with him. And you might even gain their unconditional loyalty if you treat the Gondolindrim with kindness and generosity.

-Being the Lady of the Golden Flower implies having duties, but this duties aren’t very hard as some may think. Fortunately you got the help from your beloved.

-Glorfindel will help you with the boring and tedious parts of being a Lady like attending long council meetings or doing bunches of paperwork.

-He will leave you the must fun part of being a Lady which is spending time with the Gondolindrim.

-As mentioned before the Gondolindrim keep great adoration for the House of the Golden Flower, so it will be no surprise that they often search for their Lady and Lord.

-What implies spending time with the Gondolindrim? Well maybe one day is visiting the little elfings on the orphanage or giving a motivating speech to the golden warriors of the House.

-The little elfings love when you read stories for them in the library, specially when the stories are about Tirion in Valinor or about the Valar and their powers. This has morfed into a tradition which is called “(y/n)’s reading time” by the children in the city.

-Eru forbid one of them misses your story because they will get really sad if you don’t tell them one. Glorfindel often watches you from apart with adoring eyes as you talk happily with the elfings.

-Your social skills will be used on a maximum level. But don’t worry if your personality is shy or introverted. Glorfindel won’t let you feel uncomfortable and he’ll be fine if you prefer to attend small events or not showing up to the big ones.

-Helping Idril organizing feasts and celebrations is also a very common thing to do when you are Lady of The Golden Flower. And it is actually pretty fun to do it.

-Idril is a sweet elleth who listens and searches constantly for opinion on distinct matters and the topic of celebrations is not excluded. It’s really exciting to plan events with her cause she always has a big enthusiasm for any kind of celebrations.

-Idril might be one of the closest friends you would have on the Hidden City. Not only for being a nice and sweet elleth, but because noble Ladies with a high position such as yourself tend to spend their time with royalty.

-And from time to time you might help her to scape from Maeglin. “He scares me (y/n)! I can’t get near him without feeling strange and uncomfortable” - she often says to you.

-And Idril often sneaks to your house to hide because she says he trusts on Glorfindel and you deeply and that there is no better place to hide in Gondolin from Maeglin. The truth is that a happy and cheery Glorfindel is way too much for Maeglin to deal with.

-When the stress of being Lord tires Glorfindel he will ask you to take some days off with him, vacations are also needed by Lords and Ladies even though they possess a privileged life.

-And I use the word “privileged” because you certainly are. Glorfindel will cherish you to the limit and everything you desire he will give it to you. He can’t say no to your adorable eyes.

-A beautiful dress, a new book, a diamond necklace, a sword made from the best steel, sparkling shoes, paint brushes, a new dagger.... EVERYTHING you want or need, Glorfindel will make sure you have it.

-Another thing that happens often is that when you and Glorfindel visit the market or give a stroll through the gardens, the Gondolindrim elves will always greet you both with kind words and a big smile.

-One time a nice blacksmith offered to gift you a glamorous and well crafted bracelet which certainly held a price of a large amount of gold.

-And on another occasion some little elfings came to the front door of your house just to sing a song they composed about you and Glorfindel and how wonderful you both were.

-The elves in Gondolin, no matter old or young, love and adore you and Glorfindel because of your kind treatment with them and generosity.

-This doesn’t goes unnoticed by the rest of the Lords and the King, they all recognize that you and Glorfindel are loved by all the city.

-And their reactions are different, for example Ecthelion, Rog, and Galdor may feel happy for this fact but Salgant and Maeglin might feel jealous.

-Talking about other Lords expect to spend plenty of time with them. Glorfindel is a social butterfly and very close to some of them. The Lords of the houses might come together often on small “reunions” to talk and spend a good time together.

-Sometimes Glorfindel will bring you along with him. You will find Echtelion and Galdor conversing, or Rog and Egalmoth joking about Salgant...

-On other occasions you might take dinner with all of them and the King or joining on festivities to celebrate.

-Other times Glorfindel will go alone because its a “Lords’ night” and he might prefer to go on his own.

-He says the nights get pretty crazy. And this has been confirmed by Idril when he saw her father and various Lords who were drunk playing and swimming on one of Ecthelion’s fountains at night.

-“They acted like complete elfings (y/n)! I wonder if sometime they did the same on Valinor...” - Idril explaining to you what she saw that night.

-But before Glorfindel leaves you, he will make sure that you are comfortably wrapped in cozy blankets, delicious food on your side, and a good book on your hands. He takes your comfort pretty seriously.

-Sometimes you may also have a “Ladies’ night” with Idril and the other Ladies of the other Houses, leaving complaining Lords alone for a few hours.

-They never resist too much time without their darlings so they will all come out of the houses to fetch their beloved Ladies up.

-As I said before being the Lady of the House of the Golden Flower has its advantages. You can be anything you want to. You will not be caged to follow a straight path because you will be writing your own story.

-If you want to become a warrior you can do it, or you can even be trained in the art of blacksmithing if that’s what you wish for. But prepare to face a preoccupied Glorfindel. Glorfindel doesn’t “plays” when it comes to your security.

-Ahh Yes! Security! You will ALWAYS have company at your side, there is no much privacy when you have at least two guards following your way through Gondolin.

-But try to understand Glorfindel’s protective issues, he is preoccupied for your well being more than anyone.

-“(y/n) a beautiful and wealthy noble such as yourself shouldn’t be wondering around Gondolin alone, what if you have an accident?” -Glorfindel trying to excuse his protectiveness towards you

- Being the Lady of The House of The Golden Flower is a great honor and privilege. And being Lady besides Glorfindel is even better.

-Ecthelion is one of the great and beloved Lords of the Hidden City, it’s no surprise many ladies are behind him.

-They chase him down and pray to the Valar to get his attention. But Ecthelion it’s not interested in any of them, he’s interested in you.

-When you catch Ecthelion’s attention, it will be difficult to notice it at first. But it is not impossible.

-And if you are shy or if you simply like to keep your feelings to yourself... expect a lot of mutual pinning between both.

-As I said before, decoding Ecthelion’s feelings is a difficult task since he tends to have a “reserved” personality.

-But the main clue is the way he acts in front of you. It is totally different from the way he acts around others.

-He’ll act as a “good friend”. A friend in which you can always count on. And he’ll focus his attention on you more than he do with others.

-You will come across Ecthelion very often. There will come a point in which you’ll think he is following you around Gondolin. And although that may be true, the reality is that he enjoys being near you.

-Ecthelion will be EXTREMELY attentive with you. Always helping you when you got a problem or when you need a favor.

-For example. If you encounter with Ecthelion on the market and you forgot to bring enough coins, he’ll pay for your stuff.

-Or if you are carrying a bunch of books and Ecthelion sees you struggling, he’ll not hesitate on helping you carry them.

-It won't be long until Glorfindel and some other Gondolin Lords like Rog and Egalmoth notice Ecthelion's behavior towards you.

-They’ll tease Ecthelion endlessly for his feelings towards you. And they may ask him why he hadn’t reveled his feelings already.

-Of course he isn’t going to answer that question. He has some dignity to preserve in front of his friends. But in reality he wants to wait until he‘s sure that you feel the same way he does for you.

-Deep down Ecthelion knows he is afraid of being rejected. He knows he won’t be able to get back up from a rejection of a wonderful person such as yourself. It will be extremely painful, and he’s trying to avoid that.

-But that doesn’t keeps you and Ecthelion from staring at each other whenever you have the chance.

-A glance at him feels eternal, and if he catches you staring he’ll offer a soft smile. But when you catch him starring at you he’ll slightly blush. But somehow Ecthelion manages to look composed.

-Maybe you only perceive a content and confident Ecthelion in front of you. But he’s trying hard to maintain he’s composure and don’t burst out his declaration of love.

-Ecthelion will slowly get closer to you, to get to know you better. Often conversing with you or “casually” meeting up in certain places.

-Ecthelion it’s extremely patient, and he could keep playing this game forever. But Glorfindel and the others are not going to let him in a “stand-by” mode when it comes to your relationship with him.

-Ecthelion’s friends think he needs a push. They’ll try all sorts of plans to get you both in a relationship.

-Marriage is the main goal but they think it’s better if Ecthelion takes the initiative of that matter by himself.

-When you and Ecthelion are talking, the other lords won’t think twice and will join your conversation.

-Glorfindel and Rog will shamelessly make comments about his friend’s emotions for you. Even Egalmoth will join them.

-Egalmoth will make some kind of sarcastic comment but the purpose behind it is very clear. Although Ecthelion will make sure the teasing doesn’t goes too far.

-During those conversations Ecthelion will be focused on your reactions and how you feel. He is pretty good at reading people, and his skills are highly required for this assignment.

-I'm sure that one way or another your feelings will come out. You may not verbally express them, but your actions will give you away.

-When Ecthelion notices that you like him back he’ll be over the moon. He’ll even feel more confident to ask for courtship. And this motivates him to be even MORE attentive to you.

-Expect to find “friendly” gifts such as your favorite flowers on your room, or perhaps a beautiful and fine crafted bracelet... he’s just overly excited.

-Ecthelion has never been one for big and crazy declarations of love who attract the attention of many people.

-No no no, that’s not the way he’ll ask for courtship, it’s not even his style. Ecthelion knows small things also count and possess a deeper meaning.

-Ecthelion will invite you for a walk or to a private spot in Gondolin in which he can express to you how much he loves you.

-The place he chooses is probably your favorite in the city. Ecthelion can be romantic when he wants to.

-But don’t get the idea wrong he is still nervous, he just knows how to hide his feelings pretty well.

-Ecthelion’s confession will come suddenly and in a lighthearted manner. He’ll tell you some sweet and sincere words that will make your heart melt. And he’ll wait patiently for the answer.

-Just say yes! You both love each other! (and of course you say yes😉)