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Chapter Text

“ Lerendrak, sizaevth krenin thurirlaeth - surtharlaeth adreth. “

*** T.A 1601 - Shire Reckoning

Bilbo had resided in The Shire for as long as its inhabitants could remember. While other hobbits came in and out of the world, there was always one who would remain. It wasn’t long after The Shire came into existence, did the peculiar hobbit come to join it. It was there where he spent his days wandering about the beginning town, exchanging things in return for food and shelter on occasion. He simply came and went as he pleased. That was how the residents of The Shire came to know him, a wanderer. He had a relatively normal appearance, despite many questioning the shackles on his thin wrists and ankles, in addition to that, he lacked the plump midriff hobbits normally possessed, and his ears were pointy like elf ears.

Despite his wandering nature and odd appearance, most of the Shire-folk regarded him with warm smiles and fond voices. His amusingly well spun tales and infectious laughter brought joy to many, although along with the laughter came doubt and unease. The Shire had grown accustomed to his comings and goings, some hoped he wouldn’t return, but he always did.
After several years of Bilbo living there, many became aware of the fact that the odd hobbit was the Shire’s protector. He would often patrol, taking care of threats. They became increasingly aware of the large wolf that would circle the town in defense of predators and thieves. This often made Shire-folk happy, as they were a defenseless, peaceful race. Bilbo, himself was content taking care of the threats that came near, it made him useful.

Every year, Mithrandir would come and visit the Shire and show them fireworks during Afterlithe’s festivals; he would often be found conversing with the odd hobbit. They spoke like old friends. This turned into a routine that no one cared to change for several more years.
Within the next several years, Bilbo had been formally recognized as kin to The Baggins familial bloodline. It was then he was considered and viewed as a true hobbit, despite his obvious differences. From then on, it was only the Baggins clan he aided and followed, much like a Alcarinqua.

*** T.A 1782 - Astron
Bilbo Baggins (He was a Baggins now! He still preened at the thought) was making his way down to the town of Bree to collect a few pieces of weaponry he’d commissioned a few weeks before. Once Bilbo had gotten his weaponry (a set of throwing daggers; a double sided hatchet and a small sword with a poison compartment), he started making his way back to The Shire.

When he was about half way through his return journey, he heard a small rustling in the bushes to his left. Bilbo’s ears perked up at the sound, he turned to the bush, and peered in. He let out a small sound of surprise at the eyes that met his gaze. He opened his mouth to say something when he picked up on rushed footsteps coming his way.
He jumped away from the bush just as a man rounded the corner of the path, coming into Bilbo’s field of vision. The man seemed malnourished with how skinny he was. He had dark skin, shaggy, light brown hair that looked like it hadn’t been washed in weeks. When the man got close enough for Bilbo to smell him, he gagged. He smelt utterly foul. The man looked at him, “ ‘Ay, you! ‘Ave you see’ an small elf wi’ red ‘air? She’s abou’ yeigh ‘igh and pale like an ghos’. ” The man’s voice was rough and young, he couldn’t have been older than 25. He was tempted to take pity on the man.
Bilbo, despite having a good idea that whatever he’d found in the bush was probably the elf, shook his head. “No, I’m terribly sorry but-” Bilbo’s apology was cut short as a large, heavy-set, bald man came running up to the man in front of Bilbo. He grabbed the smaller, malnourished man by the hair and dragged him away, yelling obscenities about how useless the man was.

Bilbo let out a relieved, shaky exhale before turning his attention back to the bush in front of him. He peered back into the bush, his golden hazel eyes meeting the large green ones.
He swallowed, “You can come out, the man is gone, you’re safe now.” The eyes merely blinked in response. Bilbo ran a hand through his golden curls, messing them up even further. This was going to be infuriating.
“I’m Bilbo, nice to meet you.” He introduced himself, before realizing he’s probably a tad too close to the bush and took four large steps backwards, ensuring that he was far enough, he looked up and let his lips grow into a warm smile.

This was followed by leaves rustling before a small elf came into view. Bilbo felt the air leave his chest. She was thin — thinner than what could possibly be healthy, even by elven standards — and had matted red hair that fell over her shoulders.
What was, by far, the most worrying thing about this small girl was the sheer amount of bruises and cuts she had on her legs and arms. She had an angry red welt on her jaw that Bilbo’s eyes focused on. It was a hand print he realized with perturbed anger. He was hit with an urge to reach an arm out and hold the girl in an embrace, but he stayed put. He didn’t know to what extent she had been mistreated, and until he knew, he would try not to spook the elfling.
“What’s your name?” he asked, hoping for a chance to return the elf to her parents. However, his question was answered with several more minutes of silence until the elfling finally spoke up, “Are you going to hurt me?” she muttered, eyeing the shackles on the hobbits wrists and ankles.

It was extremely obvious how wary the young elf was, and Bilbo couldn’t bring himself to blame her for it. “No, I don’t wish to hurt you. Do you, by chance, have any family nearby?” She shook her head as her eyes glazed over with unshed tears. “Not that I can remember…” She spoke, her voice quivering. Bilbo inhaled, standing up. The elf startled. “Don’t worry, do you want to come back to Hobbiton with me? I have food and a warm bed for you to sleep in,” He paused for a second, “If you wish?” He held out his free hand, the other held up in surrender, to show he meant no harm.
The small elf looked at his face and then his hand, and back again. Then, almost as if the world itself was holding its breath, the small she-elf in front of him let her hand rest on his outstretched one. Bilbo let out a small breath of air, the sounds of birds and the sound of men making their commute around them returned, before letting his lips spread into a wide smile. “Let’s go.” And so they walked.

Once they had arrived at Hobbiton, Bilbo took the small elf to a smial just off the market. “It’s not much, but I hope you find it comfortable,” He says, shutting the door behind him. He remembered something; “How old are you, by the way?” This was important. The she-elf, he really needed to get her name, looked up at him. “I’m 92, why?” Bilbo felt the air leave his lungs, “You’re not even at your majority?” The elf looked at him, blinking her large, doe eyes.
He exhaled, running a hand through his blond curls once more, it was a horrid habit that he would focus on besting later. “C’mon, let's get you cleaned up and fed.” And with that, he left toward the bathroom, the small elf in tow.

*** T.A 1890 - Forelithe
Bilbo smiled a positively predatorial smile as Tauriel succeeded in besting Elladan and Elrohir, again. This time, they had made a bet where, if the twins' managed beat Tauriel, she and the hobbit would have to do their guard rotations for the week. And if Tauriel beat the twins, they would have to be the bait for their warg-pack hunting later in the week.

And, like every other time the three spar, Tauriel won. Elladan whined, “Bilbo please?” He grinned, “You made a bet, Aranya Neldo,” He inhaled deeply then stood up, “I’m due for a meeting with Lord Elrond, I’ll be back soon enough.”
Bilbo paused right as he turned to leave, turning his head back, he grinned a smile that made the cheshire cat jealous. “Tauriel, dear? Don’t kill them, okay, Nauco Tincorya?” Tauriel shot him a glower, Elladan and Elrohir both snickered. “I’ll see you all later!” Bilbo shouted over his shoulder as he started making a beeline to the throne room.
Elrohir panicked, now aware of his mortality now that Bilbo had left them with Tauriel. “No! Bilbo! Come Back!” Elladan screeched, Tauriel tackling him.

The hobbit snickered to himself, hearing the commotion Tauriel’s victims made, no doubt the young princes would return later that evening sporting a bruise or two. He turned into the throne room. “Elen síla lúmenn' omentielvo, Lord Elrond.” Elrond lowered his head in greeting, “Well met, Bilbo Baggins. What has been the reason for such a visit, my friend?” Bilbo laughed, “Nice to see you too, well met, Elrond” He started.

It had been less than a century when everything seemed to turn on its head. When the Shire’s twenty sixth Thain had passed, a new one was put in his place, this Thain (Isengrim III) was… less than welcoming to the skinshifter, despite the kinship held between them.
This encouraged the Shire-folk to dislike (in some cases, hate) the hobbit greatly. They no longer exchanged warm, kind smiles between each other, and this also resulted in poor treatment of his goods (grossly overpriced; stale or borderline rotten; or none at all).
This concerned Bilbo, as he now had Tauriel to take care of. “Of course I have Belladonna and Bungo, bless their hearts, but it isn’t enough.” Bilbo inhaled, switching back into westron, “We’re already living with the two, I shan’t ask for them to provide for us as well!” He threw his hands up into the air.

He’d come to Elrond to suggest he take in Tauriel for the time being as they were elves, and Bilbo wasn’t. They could train her in things he couldn’t. Elrond disagrees, “Bilbo, we couldn’t possibly teach her more than what you have taught her, we don’t have the skill. You’ve taught an extremely skilled warrior, much like yourself” Elrond chuckles to himself, “I understand your situation, and I will consult my advisers and when I have an answer, I shall inform you of it.” Bilbo lowered his head, thanking the lord in front of him. “Malloa nai, Elrond.” The ‘for everything’ went unsaid. “Alyë auta i lye, Bilbo.”
The Elven lord smiles warmly, “Do you know where the nérillë herdir are?” Bilbo grins. “They’re sparring with the lady Tauriel, my lord.” A nearby royal guard supplies, The king visibly wilts with the news.

Elrond sighs, bringing up his thumb and index finger to his temple. “What did they bet on this time, Bilbo?” Said hobbit laughed, “They’re to be the bait for the warg hunting this coming week, Elrond,” And, as if summoned, both princes came tumbling into the throne room, Tauriel trailing leisurely after them.

Both the king and hobbit winced. The princes were a sight for sore eyes, dark hair tangled with leaves and twigs and they were both sporting yellow bruises all over. Elladan had a blue eye and Elrohir had a welt on his throat. “Tauriel, Lebenin, what did you do?” Bilbo questioned, exasperated. The she-elf smiled sweetly, “Adanedhel, they made another bet whereas if I were to beat them in a hand-to-hand sparring session, I would get to go lead the hunt next Highday!” She beamed.

“It’s not fair, Bilbo! She knows how to spar like dwarves and elves combined! How did you teach her that?!” Elrohir whined, clearly upset about the outcome. Elladan scowled, “If you didn’t make that bet with her we would be okay, you Lehtilírë úcar!” Tauriel snickered, both Elrond and Bilbo hid their mouths behind their hands, attempting to stifle their laughter.

*** T.A 2939 - two years before the quest.
Bilbo Baggins was an outcast, for a lack of a better word. Not many in the shire liked him, but very few actually tolerated him.
Once The Shire had become aware of just what Bilbo happened to be, they shut him out completely.
It was around elevenses on a Hevensday when the current Thain, Fortinbras Took II, had come knocking on Bag End’s door.

“Good morning Bilbo, Tauriel.” He lowered his head slightly to greet the skinshifter and elf. Both were a sight for sore eyes, moreso Bilbo than Tauriel. “May I have a word with you, Bilbo?” Although Bilbo’s eyes narrowed in suspicion, he nodded. “Very well then, Fortinbras, please have a seat, I will join you in a moment.” He gestured down the hall, where the dining room sat. Fortinbras lowered his head in thanks before making his way to the dining room.

Tauriel looked at her father, worry thrumming through her like a school of spooked fish. “Adanedhel, are you sure you're okay?” He wasn’t, but he was getting better. He nodded, he gave her a small watery smile, “Not really, Gûl nîn thôl, but do not worry, I will get better.” Tauriel placed a hand on her fathers head, “Please do, Adar, I do wish to spar with you again.” She smiled, “We both have not done so in a long while, so we are rusty,” She bent down, “Especially you, Perian beleg.” Bilbo gasped playfully, “I am your father, Tauriel.”He smiled, “But thank you, my Glanui, I will get better soon” Bilbo wrapped his arms around the taller beings waist, hugging her.

“Ú-meluva.” He spoke before stalking off to where Fortinbras sat.

Bilbo’s gaze bore into the oak table at infront of him. It was cruel what the hobbit was suggesting. Tauriel had been enraged when she heard what had to be done, she was aware of what kind of mental scars her adanedhel was plagued with, and how this would impact him. She ended up having to leave the smial, if she hadn’t, there was no saying what could have happened to the Thain.

Bilbo inhaled shakily, “Is…is that what I have to do to stay in Hobbiton?” Fortinbras nodded. “I am very sorry, Bilbo, but there are no other options.” Bilbo stayed silent for a moment longer. “What- what about a tattoo? I have a high pain tolerance, but my ears…” He trailed off and Fortinbras nodded his head in understanding, “I’m sorry it has come to this, cousin, but we cannot simply go with a tattoo. We will have to take a notch out of your ear to signify what you are.”
The skinshifter shifted in his seat before looking up, “Why a notch? Why not an earring? I’ve met other’s with abilities and they have only needed to get earrings.” He inhaled, “So, Fortinbras, why must I have a piece of my dínen ear removed?!” He was borderline hysterical now.
Fortinbras sighed, putting his index and thumb to his temples, he spoke. “Because, Bilbo, you are a Draig. I understand the wolf, as you have a better way of helping us, but your draconic form is still extremely dangerous. Those who had been forced to bare an earring didn't hold shapeshifting abilities like you.” Bilbo sighed.

He hung his head in resignation, “Very well then, Fortinbras.” The Thain opened his mouth to speak once more, and Bilbo cut him off; “But. I wish to take care of this now, while Tauriel is not present.” Fortinbras looked uncharacteristically distressed, but complied. “Okay, I wish to go get my medical supplies to carry out this procedure, I will be back in a moment.”

When Tauriel had returned to Bag-End, she stood in the Smial’s doorway, shocked and pale. There sat Bilbo on a chair, an ear bandaged and looking faint. “Oh, Adar…” She breathed, walking closer to the hobbit she saw his left ear was shaped oddly in the thin bandaging.
Her heart dropped to her knees. “Adanedhel, why?” She lowered herself to her knees to look at Bilbo, his golden eyes, now more green than hazel, looked at her with a haunting but relieved expression.
“Oh, Lebenin, you’re back…” His voice hoarse, as if he’d been screaming. “Now we can stay here.” He smiled at her.

Tauriel’s eyes grew misty. “You Estelad verenidh!” She hissed, eyes burning with unshed tears. Bilbo chuckled, “Hey now, I’m still your adar, that doesn't mean you can insult me. You needn’t worry, my Nîn Orch leithon, we are safe now.” He held the crying elf’s face gently, “Do not fret Tauriel, it didn’t hurt.” He put his forehead to Tauriel’s, holding her close as she cried quietly. “I didn’t want for you to do this, we could have gone to Rivendell…” Her voice quieted off as she cried harder.

Bilbo looked at the elf in his lap with soft loving eyes. He hoped he'd be able to shield her from the words spoken to him. "Soon, my gûlwen. Soon." He whispered

Chapter Text

“ Uznâkuzûl gabilanumiz - rakhas tarku dimdum “

  *** T.A 2941 - the day before the quest. (Trewsday, 25 Astron)

Bilbo was glad Tauriel had slept through Gandalf’s visit, she was already extremely overprotective when it concerned him. He wouldn’t put it past her to attack one of the maiar. 

His feathers had been sufficiently ruffled with the news of dwarves wishing to reclaim Erebor from Smaug. Smaug , Bilbo’s crawled at even the mention of the name. Of course it just had to be Smaug. Bilbo had always known of Smaug’s greed; as a fire drake, it was extremely easy to feel the pull of gold. Even as a frost drake himself, he could feel the faint pull of gold. He was glad he and his kin didn’t want nor care for gold as much as their flame-inducing counterparts did.  

He stood up from his bench. It should’ve been around second breakfast, if his internal clock was right. The only reason Bilbo had agreed to this adventure was because he owed the Istari a favour for saving his life, and with that, he inhaled and went off to wake the elf sleeping in the large, empty smial. 

“So… Because you owe Mithrandir, you agreed to join a quest to reclaim the Kingdom under the Mountain?” Tauriel shook her head as she took a bite of her scone, only Bilbo would agree to something as ridiculous as this. “ Adanedhel , you are aware of what type of draug you are, correct?” Bilbo nodded, “Yes, I am aware, Nîn Orchuil Calad . But, need I remind you that I am almost as large as Thaur when in my draconic form? We may be completely opposite in what we breathe but we are similar in size.” Tauriel stated, “I still think Mithrandir was wrong to ask this  of you, Adar .” Bilbo shrugged, defeated “When is anything Mithrandir does fair? Now, Tauriel, Lebenin , I am going on this quest, don’t look at me like that.” Tauriel shot him a glare, “Although, I do not know if their leader is willing to let you come along with me, from what I’ve learnt about the Dwarves Of Erebor, they do not take to elves kindly...” Tauriel nodded once more, she’d learnt of what Thranduil had done to the dwarves of Erebor when trying to find out about where she’d come from, and eventually finding out about Greenwood and their king. 

Bilbo, not looking up from his plate of scones and clotted cream, said something that caught Tauriel’s attention. “Shall we prepare food for our guests like Peredhel does?” The elf grinned, “Whatever do you mean, adar , preparing greens for a bunch of travel weary dwarves when they eat meat? How scandalous !” She gasped, “What a bad host you’d be! Oh the gossip!” She put the back of her hand to her forehead and mock fainted. Bilbo’s eyes met hers and they both broke out in loud, raucous laughter. “But, in all seriousness, Adanedhel , I think it’d be best to get on their good side.” She paused, “However, if they just so happen to misbehave…” Tauriel grinned sadistically, unbothered about the unfinished statement. Bilbo shook his head, bemused. 

Bilbo stood up, collecting the dirtied dishes before returning them to the kitchen to be cleaned. “ Hado i'lam , Nîn Lissësûl , we have guests to prepare for.” His face had glowed with excitement and Tauriel couldn’t help but smile back, this had been the first time since Bungo and Belladonna’s deaths that he’d smiled a true smile. “Very well then, Perian beleg , let us see who can create more food for our guests.” Bilbo shot her a glower worthy of refreezing The Brandywine river. “Do not call me that, you Gwannen Edhel .” He shot back. 

She laughed as the hobbit shook his head fondly. “No, Tauriel, I think tomorrow we shall prepare food, today we will take care of supplies,gear and legalities,” He sighed, “We will not be returning to The Shire once we leave, so we need to make sure BagEnd doesn’t go to anyone unfit to own it.” Tauriel nodded thoughtfully, “Mhm, that is true.” She stood, “So, no dear Lobelia Sackville-Baggins?” Bilbo’s face of pure, unfiltered pure horror at the mere thought sent Tauriel into a fit of giggles. “Sweet Eru, no !” He gasped, the chains on his wrists clanging. 

It took the rest of the day to sort out the financial aspect of things, purely due to the unhidden rageful hatred directed at Bilbo. Tauriel had been given the task of heckling men from Bree for supplies (which usually wasn’t very difficult — all it took was a flash of her bow and arrows to get the job done) for the quest to come, as well as food. Then, She and Bilbo went out hunting for deer and fowl. The task was finished several hours earlier due to Bilbo’s aid with shifting into his wolven form. 

It was around Afternoon Tea, 3pm, when the two of them had finished. Tauriel smirked, “That was a hunt well done, right Xarith Sylth ?” The large green wolf in front of her shot her a look before dragging the deer carcasses back to BagEnd. It was the telltale sounds of bones snapping and popping that had turned Tauriel around to leave the room to retrieve a large amount of Devil's claw, a piece of meat and the spare clothing reserved for after Bilbo’s shiftings. 

The skinshifter let out a small murmur of thanks, before bringing himself to stand on his feet once more. The shackles around his wrists and ankles now jangled loudly as he forced his bruised, aching limbs to comply. Once he had the pair of pants on, he moved to put his shirt on when he hissed, reaching for the Devil’s Claw, he almost swallowed the handful of herbs whole.

Tauriel watched this from the doorway of the kitchen, chewing on a nail. This was normal, but it still worried the elf. She was able to breathe properly when the bone-tired hobbit had slumped down, once more, on the floor. “Come on, Adar , let’s get you to bed. We have a long day ahead of us with those Naugrim of Mithrandir’s.” She muttered, picking up the sleeping hobbit and returning him to his room. 

  *** T.A 2941 - The Quest. (Hevensday, 26 Astron)

Bilbo woke up just before second breakfast. Tauriel had taken it upon herself to take care of breakfast that morning, Bilbo was grateful. “Good morning, Nîn Thaweg nín Galenas .” Tauriel simply hummed in greeting from where she was stationed in the kitchen. “Are we going to have that goew idhrin you promised me?” 

Bilbo laughed as he took a seat at the large table. “Sure nîn ion , We have to do so anyways, I-” He paused, looking down. Tauriel looked up. “What is it, adar ?” Bilbo was looking at his shackles now, “Do you suppose I am to hide my shackles? I would assume that, based on past experience, Mithrandir has yet to inform the dwarrow of my… predicament …” He trailed off, wondering about what and how these dwarrow would react to a hobbit with shackles around his wrists and ankles. Not to mention the other hundreds of things that made him stand out (scars everywhere , his unnatural eye colour, his sharper teeth, and so on). Tauriel shrugged, turning her attention back to the sausage she was cooking, “I have no doubt that they would have quite a reaction to those shackles of yours . ” She chortles, “But, if you’re truly asking me, then yes, Adanedhel , I think, for now, we should keep that under wraps.” Bilbo nodded. “Thank you, Nîn Orch leithon .” Tauriel smiled. 

It was then Bilbo’s nose caught wind of rotten meat. He wilted. Might as well go take care of that, he moped. 

And so then began the competition between an elf and an unusual hobbit. The day had flown by, and by the time several traditional hobbitish and dwarven dishes had been made, the day was gone. What had pulled Bilbo and Tauriel out of their competitive mindset was the doorbell ringing in the background. Bilbo dusted his hands of flour and went to invite the guest in. “Stay in here for now, I can’t be certain the dwarves won’t attack you.” Tauriel nodded. 

It shocked him at first, who was standing on his doorstep. It was a tall dwarf. He seemed to loom over the hobbit, he had two large axes strapped to his back, a bald, tattooed head.He wore a large green cloak. “Dwalin Fundinson, at yer service.” The dwarf grumbled, eying the hobbits (albeit elvish) ears. One had an indent in it, interesting ... It took Bilbo a second too long to gather his bearing,  seeing as the dwarf strode into his smial, pushing him aside. “Well? Where is it?” Bilbo gaped. “Excuse me?” The large dwarf looked at him expectantly. “The food. He told us there would be food an’ a place for rest.” Bilbo paused for a moment.

“He?”

 “Tharkûn .” Bilbo groaned. “Did he now?” The dwarf nodded. Bilbo inhaled, “Well then,” He clasped his hands behind his back, “Bilbo Baggins, at yours.” He lowered his head in greeting, “Kindly remove your cloak and muddy shoes,” He turned to leave, “You may keep your other weapons if you have any, but please, master dwarf, remove the axes. There is a large table to your right, you may put them there.” Dwalin did, infact, do as Bilbo had asked and put his axes on the table. Bilbo paused, “Uhm.. Master dwarf, can you please remove the knuckle dusters as well?” The dwarf looked at him before smiling sweetly, “I don’ think I can, master Baggins.” Bilbo took a breath and counted to ten in his head. “Master dwarf, I do not wish to damage anything within my smial. Please remove the knuckle dusters, you may keep your other weapons.” Dwalin blatantly ignored the request, moving to step around Bilbo. The hobbit sighed once more, before grabbing the dwarf by the wrist and throwing him on the floor, efficiently knocking the wind out of the shocked dwarf.  It was Bilbo’s turn to smile sweetly, “Now, Master Dwalin . Please remove the knuckle dusters before we have any further problems.” Dwalin complied, pale and slightly wide-eyed. Once his knuckle dusters were on the table with his axes, the hobbit smiled and led him to the dining room.  The dwarf blinked at him as the unusual hobbit took his leave. 

Bilbo sighed, it was going to be a long night. Confound that damn wizard! He returned to the kitchen, where he’d last seen Tauriel, but was nowhere to be found. He smirked, “Cheeky elf.” he murmured, taking three large plates to the dining room. “I’m glad I took the time to pack away Bella’s pîrnen , that wouldn’t be a very delightful experience!” He spoke to himself, setting the large table. He heard heavy footsteps approach him, he turned around just as another jingle of the doorbell  sounded out. “Oh! Master dwarf, feel free to start eating while I go tend to the door!” All he got in response was a loud grunt as he scampered off to the door. 

“Balin Fundinson, at your service.” The white haired dwarf spoke. Bilbo smiled, “Good evening master dwarf, one of your kin has already arrived.” Bilbo smiled kindly at the dwarf. “ Please remove your muddy shoes, cloak and any large weapons on your person, you may put them on the large table to your right.” The dwarf complied, “Indeed it is, I think it might rain later.” Bilbo looked over the old dwarfs shoulder, humming,”Hmh, Well I hope not!” He chuckled. “Right this way, master dwarf.” He led Balin to the large dining room, where Dwalin was eating. “Oh haha! Evening brother!” Balin yelled, walking up to his brother. “By my beard, yer shorter an’ fatter than last time!” Balin chuckled, “Wider, not shorter.” He corrected with a grin, “But sharp enough fir the both of us.” He winked. 

Bilbo winced as the brothers racked their foreheads together in greeting, he would never understand why dwarves did that. His musings were, once more, interrupted by the ring of the doorbell. “Kíli,” a dark haired dwarf spoke, “and Fíli,” the blond one continued. “At your service!” They spoke in unison. They seem a lot like Elladan and Elrohir, he mused. The brunette spoke again, Kíli , Bilbo reminded himself, “And you, must be mister Boggins!” The dwarf grinned, proud of himself. The blond dwarf smacked Kíli's head, “ Baggins , Kíli!” He hissed. Bilbo nodded, eyes filled with mirth, “Indeed I am, master dwarf. At your service.” He once more lowered his head in greetings before the two. Kíli then pushed Bilbo out of the way to inspect the house. Fíli smirked at the hobbit before dropping his weapons in his arms, “Careful with these, I just had them sharpened” He winked. 

Bilbo gaped. “ Excuse me .” He hissed, stopping the two dwarves. They both turned back to face him, and he hardened his gaze. “Now. You will put your weapons on the table, remove your coats and-” He was cut off by  Kíli wiping his boots on Belladonna’s glory box . That did it, no one disrespected Belladonna's memory. No one . He dropped the weapons. “-your boots.” he finished, glaring at the two dwarflings with cold fury thrumming through his veins. “Remove them. Before I remove you myself .” Both dwarves quickly complied,  Fíli grumbling about his newly sharpened weapons and Bilbo could’ve sworn he heard Kíli say something under his breath similar to “Mister boggins reminds me of amad,  Fee.” the older dwarf whined as he removed his boots and coat.

“Come on then,” Bilbo smiled warmly, addressing  Kíli and Fíli. “Master Balin and Dwalin are already eating, you may go join them.” Both dwarves ran to the dining room with the promise of food in their minds. 

 He chuckled, “They’re much like you, Nîn Lissësûl . Eager to fill their bellies with food.” Tauriel stepped out of the shadows near him, “Indeed, adar . Although…” Bilbo grinned, “The brown haired one?” She deadpanned, “No, adar . I do not find him attractive. I was going to say that the blond one seems.. familiar..” Bilbo hummed, “Yes, If I remember, it was that edhel Elvellon of Thranduil’s that swooned over an, And I quote,‘unfairly attractive dwarven prince! And, oh my Eru, did you know he had blond hair!?’ when we last met with him, no?” They both chuckled. “I believe so, adanedhel . And I wouldn’t put it past Legolas to wish to court him. He is rather attractive, I-” She was cut off by more doorbell ringing. The two shared a look before she disappeared from sight once more. 

When he opened the door, eight more dwarves fell in a pile on the floor. Bilbo stared dumbly at the pile of dwarves at his feet, he was pulled back to the present by a chuckling voice. He looked up to meet the gaze of the grey wizard. “Gandalf.” he greeted. “Ah! Bilbo, my boy!” Bilbo shot him a look. He moved to reply, but the group of fallen dwarves had finally gathered themselves. He had learnt their names were as follows; Bifur, Bofur, Bombur, Dori, Nori, Ori, Óin and Glóin. He felt a protective feeling streak through his body like it had with  Kíli and Fíli. He smiled widely, “Do come in, master dwarves! There is food; ale and beds for you all, but I must ask that you remove your boots, cloaks and larger weapons. I do not wish to wrangle them off of you as I did master Dwalin.” He smiled brightly before turning around to finish bringing out all the food he and Tauriel had made. What he missed was the dumbfounded looks he got from Nori,  Kíli, Fíli (who happened to be passing through the parlour to greet Ori) and Ori. Nori in particular was shocked, that small melekûn had been able to get Dwalin to put down his prized knuckle dusters? Nori shook his head before rejoining his brothers in the dining room. 

Bilbo had returned with several more plates of roasted meat, stew and pies. It shocked the younger dwarves to see such an abundance of food, it pleased Bilbo greatly to see dwarves enjoying his food. He smiled, “Master Nori?” The dwarf in question looked up, “Yes?” Bilbo looked at him impassively. “Please, kindly put back my friend's silverware. I do not wish to lose them.” Nori gawked. How?! He looked up again to where the hobbit stood, only to find he’d once again disappeared. 

What ensued next, Bilbo would deny the large squeak he’d made when the dwarves had started singing a song, of all things when he had asked that they not blunt Belladonna’s precious knives. But, he could happily report none of the ceramics had been broken, luckily. But, much like everything else having to do with dwarves, the activity of attempting to send Bilbo into a grave, it was abruptly stopped when the sound of knocking echoed through the lively smial. “He’s here.” The wizard spoke. 

Bilbo felt something deep inside him warm intensely when he laid his eyes on Thorin Oakensheild. The dwarf carried himself like a royal should, and Bilbo thought it rather suited him. The hints of silver hair at his temples that seemed to heighten his attractiveness, much to Bilbo’s chagrin. “Gandalf.” He greeted and sweet Eru! his voice! Thorin stepped into the smial. “I thought you said this place would be easy to find. I lost my way twice.” He unclipped his cloak while Bilbo’s thoughts had been left to run positively rampant with images of the dwarf in front of him. “I wouldn’t have found it at all if there hadn’t been for the mark on the door.” This shook Bilbo out of his stupor. 

“Mark?” He spoke up, drawing the attention of the king and wizard. “ Gandalf .” He glared at the istari, “Did you put a mark on my door ?!” Gandalf, for once, answered plainly, “Yes, Bilbo, there is a mark on your door, I put it there myself.” Bilbo glared daggers at the istari, who inhaled again. “Bilbo Baggins, allow me to introduce the leader of this company, Thorin Oakensheild.” The dwarven king turned his attention to Bilbo. “So, this is the hobbit.” He started to circle Bibo, “Tell me, Master Baggins, have you done much fighting?” Bilbo glared at Tauriel, who, still shrouded in darkness, was giggling quietly. “Do you prefer axe or sword? What is your preferred weapon of choice?” Bilbo’s attention moved from Gandalf to the interrogating king. He enjoyed throwing axes, daggers and other things, but why not mess with the dwarves?  “I’m rather good at conkers, if you must know.” Thorin looked at him incredulously. “He looks more like a grocer than a burglar.” 

This prompted Tauriel to speak up. “Master dwarf, I can assure you, adar is extremely skilled.” The sudden, extra voice had made most of the dwarves jump in surprise. Ori had seen the elf and had exchanged a kind word or two, he hadn’t any idea as to why an Nauco was here, but the word adar gave him a damn good idea. Thorin raised an eyebrow, looking around the room. “Who are you?” Bilbo looked like he wanted to die. “Tauriel, dear, can we not?”  Kíli and Fíli looked at the hobbit. “Tauriel?” Fíli began, “Whose that?”  Kíli asked. Bilbo opened his mouth to answer when a small knife went flying through the air, right at Bilbo’s head. Several dwarves lurched, Bilbo moved his head. “Tauriel. I applaud you for sticking up for me, but attacking me to prove a point?” He put his hands on his hips, this was followed by a tall elf stalking out of the shadows near Gloin and Oin. “Sorry, adar , but I won't let that gwador haered insult you.” She emphasised this point by shooting the dwarven king a glare. 

The royal dwarf’s eye twitched. “Tharkûn .” Oakensheild growled “ Why is there a gurnovos'comys here?” He sounded livid. Tauriel inhaled as Bilbo paused. “Excuse me?” He stared at the dwarf, a protective rage pulsed under his skin, begging, pleading to let his shift and rip this Honoroth Vurin to shreds. Tauriel must have noticed this, putting a hand on his shoulder she whispered, “Calm down, adanedhel , I am fine.” 

Thorin observed this with interest. An elf , he scoffed, comforting a hobbit . He took a moment to assess the hobbit properly. His most noticeable features were his elven ears and the silver shackles that sat snug on his wrists and ankles. How peculiar…

Gandalf spoke up, obviously uncomfortable, at what? the dwarves knew not. “Bilbo, my boy. Do you not wish to know why these dwarves are here?” The hobbits' eyes met his, “You and I know damn well why, Mithrandir.” He turned to the dwarves, “But I’ll entertain it.” The next several hours consisted of dwarves (see:  Kíli and Fíli) attempting to scare Bilbo, Balin discussing his contract (to which he signed, no questions asked), Bilbo showing all thirteen dwarves to their respective rooms, although he knew they would probably sleep in families, and the Dwarves singing a song. 

Bilbo sat in front of the hearth, curled up, he was reading one of his many books, enjoying the last of such comforts, as he knew he wouldn’t have them back anytime soon. He was interrupted by the sounds of hesitant footsteps coming nearer. He closed his book and looked up, smiling. Ori and  Kíli stood near Bilbo, looking rather uncomfortable. “What can I do for you boys?” Ori looked hopeful, while Kíli was hesitant. “Would you mind telling us about hobbits? And their cultures?” The young dwarf was practically vibrating. Bilbo shrugged, a lax smile made its way onto his face. “Sure, why not?” 

And that's how Thorin found the three of them later on in the night; the hobbit asleep on his chair, Ori and Kíli both sprawled across the carpeted floor. He shook his head at his nephew's antics, arms wrapped around Ori like a boa constrictor. There was a nagging feeling in the back of his mind about the hobbit. 

“Just who are you ?” He whispered, eyeing the still form of the halfling

Chapter Text

“ Curanë allassë, laitalassë “

  *** T.A 2941 - The Quest. (Mersday, 27 Astron)

Bilbo woke with the sun. He’d ended up sleeping in the living room with two of the dwarflings, speaking of… He paused, raising an eyebrow at the pair. The two seemed close. He shrugged. Time for a quick, light breakfast before they leave. He hissed when he moved to stand. His muscles ached with stiffness with his movement. He tried again, and succeeded in standing, now he needed to get to the kitchen, he groaned. He didn’t want to move, but they needed breakfast. And with that thought in mind, he made his way to his larder to grab food to cook.

When he got to the larder, he found that just over half of his barrels of ale and wine had been finished. He snickered. No doubt the dwarves (and possibly Gandalf) would be nursing some foul hangovers. He liked hobbitish and elven wines and ales, as he found hobbits make stronger ales and elves made sweeter wines. Bilbo grabbed a bowl of ginger root to put out with tea. After putting out the ginger root, he started on breakfast. As he moved with fluidity  around the kitchen, he hummed. It was a song Belladonna would sing when going about her day. 

He turned around to plate the pancakes he’d been making when he noticed someone watching him. He jumped and nearly dropped the pan in the process. Once Bilbo had gotten over his fright, he looked up; it was Fíli. “Oh! Good morning master Fíli, how are you?” The dwarf grumbled, holding his head. “Ah, sit down and eat this.” He handed a piece of ginger to the hungover prince. “Let me get you some tea to help wash that down.” Fíli complied and Bilbo turned back to finish off the pancakes and bacon. He had also thrown in a few hobbit hashes for himself. 

It was Kíli and Ori that came in next, talking quietly amongst themselves. Bilbo smiled, “Good morning master Ori, master Kíli.” Both dwarves looked up and smiled, “Morning master Baggins!” came Ori’s yell, which, in turn, caused Fíli to groan. Bilbo chuckled, “You three can just call me Bilbo, and do keep it down.” He looked at them with mirth, “They had quite a bit of Ale last night, so they are bound to be sensitive.” He gestured to Fíli with a small smile. 

Kíli looked confused, “But Fee can drink an entire barrel of ale before he’s like this..” Bilbo laughed airily, “Hobbit ale is much stronger than dwarven ale. As well as ale made by men.” Ori, who had been standing at Kíli’s side, walked over to one of the half empty tankards and took a sip. He nodded, “Yeah, Bilbo’s right, Kíli. I don’t doubt even Nori would be hungover today.” He looked at Bilbo again, “what are you making, Bilbo?” The hobbit in question opened his mouth to answer, but was cut off by large, fumbling footsteps coming into the kitchen. 

There stood Dwalin, Nori and Bofur, all looking like they had sparred with a large bear, Bofur had lost his hat, and Nori looked particularly bad. His beads were missing, and his hair had lost its shape. Ori let out a suspicious cough. Bilbo looked at them, mirth swirling in his hazel eyes. “Good morning, master dwarves. Do you want some tea? There is some ginger root on the table to help with the headaches.” The three dwarves gave him grumbled thanks before sitting down at the table. The rest of the dwarves slowly trickled in after that, no one paying attention to Tauriel, who had been standing by the large table. Fíli; feeling better, had started conversing with her idly. 

It warmed something deep within Bilbo to see Bag End alive. His eyes slowly moved over the group, stopping at Kíli, Fíli, and Ori. They were all conversing with Tauriel, who happily humoured their questions. Slowly over the next half an hour, most of the company started filtering in, drawn by the smell of food. Soon Bilbo found himself conversing with the company’s cook; Bombur. They talked about recipes, among other things. 

As he took out another bowl to start making some food for the road; there was a rushed knock on his door. None of the dwarves seemed to notice, so he dusted his hands of flour and went to go see what the commotion was about. What stood in front of him was another hobbit, Lobelia. He groaned inwardly. Putting a wide smile on his face he greeted her. “Lobelia! How nice to see you, what ever do you need?” Okay. He’d admit his smile was more a grimace than anything, but it was Lobelia . The hobbit lass looked at him with an upturned nose. “ Cousin .” she greeted. “Are you going to invite me in?” No . “I’m not letting you have Bag End.” Her cheeks turned a lovely shade of enraged red. Bilbo grinned. “I am more deserving of Bag End, not you!” She screeched. If she kept this up, she’d disturb the company. He winced, “Lobelia, cousin, I have guests over. Would you be a dear and sod off ?” The offended look on her face was comical. Bilbo returned the look with a smile before shutting the door. “Do come back later!” He called through the door, laughing to himself. 

He turned around and met the gaze of his elf. She and Bilbo broke off into mad giggles. “Again, adar ?” He nodded, turning back to the kitchen. “Indeed.” He paused, “No doubt she’ll try and get Bag End while we’re gone.” The three dwarflings looked to him with questioning gazes. “To explain this properly, understand that I am not a Baggins by blood. Lobelia married into the Baggins clan. Whereas I was adopted into the clan, understand?” The three nodded in answer. “This smial belonged to my late friends. And they chose to give me Bag End, for what reason, I don’t know. But what I do know, however, is that Lobelia wants Bag End. And she’s more than willing to play dirty to get it.” Fíli and Kíli shared a puzzled look, “But, mister Baggins, why would she do that? Wouldn’t she be a social outcast if she did?” Bilbo smiled, he was catching onto Hobbit culture. “You are correct, Fíli, however.” Bilbo turned to continue mixing the batter, “I am… not well liked in The Shire. Therefore, even if Lobelia were to try anything misguided to obtain Bag End, no consequences would come to her.” 

He missed several looks of concern as he bent down to pull a tray of food out of the oven. “Infact, most hobbits would rather I leave. That was one of the reasons I signed the contract. Also, Kíli?” He stood up to grab the bowl of batter, “Yes, mister Baggins?” Kíli had stalked into the kitchen to try to pilfer some extra scones. Bilbo smacked his hand with a spoon; “Hands off.” Kíli whined, holding his hand. “Where is your uncle? I would assume he wishes to leave before midday.” Kíli shrugged, “Dunno, mister Baggins…” The dwarf trailed off, attempting to grab another scone. A resounding yelp echoed through the smial. “Hands off!” followed. 

There was a deep chuckle that came from the corner of the kitchen. Both Kíli and Bilbo looked up, meeting Thorin’s gaze. Bilbo didn’t yelp. Nor did Kíli. They would deny that fact until they died. Kíli scowled, rubbing his hand.“Are you going to steal any more food before the journey, Kíli?” Bilbo looked at him with a raised eyebrow. “No…” He grumbled. Bilbo laughed quietly as he turned to finished making food. He missed the fond look Thorin had, as well as Kíli's gawking.

Chapter Text

“ Tibi protegam te usque ad supremum spiritum “

“ There was a deep chuckle that came from the corner of the kitchen. Both Kíli and Bilbo looked up, meeting Thorin’s gaze. Bilbo didn’t yelp. Nor did Kíli. They would deny that fact until they died. Kíli scowled, rubbing his hand.“Are you going to steal any more food before the journey, Kíli?” Bilbo looked at him with a raised eyebrow. “No…” He grumbled. Bilbo laughed quietly as he turned to finished making food. He missed the fond look Thorin had, as well as Kíli's gawking ”

----

It wasn’t long before the company took off. Bilbo had been able to wrangle every single dwarf into a somewhat okay position, with their headaches, considering their severe hangovers due to ale and wine. He’d gotten Nori’s beads back to the dwarf, conversed with Bifur (his cousins weren’t paying attention), who was ecstatic to be able to converse with someone properly, considering he spoke in a combination of ancient Khuzdul and modern Khuzdul. Bifur had promised to keep Bilbo’s knowledge of Khuzdul a secret for the time being. 

 Bilbo was able to pull a pony for each and every member of the company (he paid twice as much to allow Farmer Maggot to let him see the ponies - not to mention the actual price of buying them…), as well as talk their leader into letting him buy them instead of Bree ponies. “I can get them for a fraction of the price, Master Oakenshield.” He drawled, “And besides, the men of Bree are rather willing to overprice you purely because they can.” He’d suggested. Bilbo had forgotten what it was like to converse with Farmer Maggot, convincing him to sell him the ponies was a different matter entirely.

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When faced with such information, Thorin relented. The exiled king didn’t need to be unnecessarily charged for something worth so little so early on. So, he allowed the burglar to sway his decision on transportation. He’d overheard the halfling’s conversation with his nephew, about him not being well liked, Thorin thought it was a load of bull. Granted, he had yet to disprove the halfling's claims. The halfling seemed as snooty as every other halfling within The Shire, his appearance was just a bit off the shackles, the lack of a midriff, why on middle-earth was there a notch taken out of his ear, his sharper (than normal) teeth and the positively predatory gaze of his, but that couldn’t constitute alienation, in his humble opinion. His questions, however, were only amplified when they officially set out (without the elf, thank Mahal). Thorin could hear the whispers that floated through the growing crowd of busy bodies. He turned his gaze to the halfling, who happily conversed with Fili. Couldn’t he hear the whispers? He pondered. The company continued making their way to a farmhouse where, supposedly, the ponies were being held. While their burglar conversed with the farmer, Thorin couldn't help but notice the looks of disgust other halflings held for him. He noticed how the farmer seemed to avoid touching their burglar altogether. He frowned, what was the cause of this? Thorin shook his head, clearing himself of such thoughts. They were unnecessary. When the burglar returned, he looked happy, there was another emotion lingering in the halflings gaze. Thorin couldn’t seem to make it out. Tell me what troubles you.

As they made their departure, Thorin brooded thought about their newest addition. There was an air of secrecy that intrigued him. He had turned to Tharkûn for answers, but the blasted wizard only answered back in tongues. Thorin had a creeping suspicion that the wizard enjoyed it. His mind wandered back to the halfling, who sat with his sister-sons. Kili was animatedly talking about the time he and Fili bested Dwalin in a sparring lesson. When the warrior cut in correcting Kili saying, “Nope. Ye never bested me inna fight. Tried? Per’aps, but beat me? Ye still need te train more.” His The halfling snickered at the look Thorin’s sister-sons threw at Dwalin. He felt something deep within himself warm at the small chuckle emitted from the smaller being. I want to be the reason for that laugh. 

—————————

The first few days could have gone much better; Bilbo, and every other member of the company, was soaked to the bone. He was irritable and cold. Halfway through the day, Dori spoke up, “Mister Gandalf, can't you do something about this deluge?” Gandalf didn’t turn to face the dwarf as he answered back; “It is raining, Master dwarf, and it will continue to rain until the rain is done. If you wish to change the weather of the world, you should find yourself another wizard.” This caught Bilbo’s attention, of course he knew of the other wizards, sweet Eru, one tried to say he deserved death. “Are there any?” Gandalf looked at him, blinking. “Other wizards, I mean.” The wizard smiled, “There are five of us. The greatest of our order is Saruman the White. And then there are the two Blue Wizards... You know, I've quite forgotten their names.” Bilbo narrowed his eyes, he knew gandalf knew the names of the two blue wizards. “And the fifth wizard?” Gandalf shrugged, “That would be Radagast the Brown.” Bilbo smirked, “Is he a great wizard, or is he more..” He grinned, “You know, like you?” Gandalf pointedly ignored the blatant insult, “Well, I think he is a very great wizard... in his own way. He has a gentle soul who prefers the company of animals for others. He keeps a watchful eye over the vast forest lands to the East, and a good thing too. For always evil will look to find a foothold in this world.” Their conversations were cut short by their leader calling out to stop for the day. 

Bilbo couldn’t sleep. It wasn’t that he was uncomfortable (He’d slept in worse conditions..), It was more so the nagging feeling of something was wrong. Completely and utterly wrong. While he lay there in relative silence, there was a piercing howl that cut through the air. Wargs. “Where’s that coming from?” Bilbo sat up, only to be met with the sight of Kili, looking mischievous. “Orcs.” Kili said, looking grave. The joy in his eyes gave him away. Bilbo humoured him despite the cold chill running up his spine at the mention of the cruel creatures. “Orcs?” Fili nodded somberly, “Throat-cutters. There’ll be dozens of them out there. The lone-lands are crawling with them.” Bilbo raised an eyebrow at them. “They strike in the wee small hours when everyone’s asleep. Quick and quiet, no screams. Just lots of blood.” Kili added. Bilbo’s eyes darkened. “Is that amusing to you, Kili? If you think that is something worth joking about, you are severely wrong.” Kili looked taken aback, “We didn’t mean anything by it.” The dwarf defended himself. Bilbo’s voice was cold, he wasn’t looking at them anymore. Instead he was staring out into the night sky, memories of pain and torture replaying in his mind. His back ached, the phantom pain coming back to haunt him. “You are right about the blood, however. There would be so much blood…” He turned his gaze back to the boys, Kili and Fili looked chastised and Bilbo could see the worry dancing in their eyes. 

“The burglar’s right.” Came a deep voice came from the edge of the camp. “You know nothing of the world if you think such a joke is humorous.” This was when the battle of Azanulbizar came to light. He understood the hatred the king had for Orcs. He had his own too — it just didn’t stem from just the killing of a family member. The images of Belladonna’s and Bungo’s corpses, ripped up and the crimson colour of the snow below them, the feeling of metal hitting him, the feeling of pure, unfiltered agony, fear and the need to survive filled his dreams for the rest of the night. 

The next morning, Bilbo arose with the sun. He chose this opportunity to go give Myrtle an apple. “There you go, nîn rochel. You did so well yesterday, I’m so proud of you.” He whispered, feeding the apple to her. He stayed there until he heard the others starting to rise, his mind replaying the speech Balin had given them about Thorin from the night before. He helped finish packing before they set out once more. Something within himself knew Azog hadn’t died, he knew the orc, and he knew his tactics. There was a high possibility of the Company being hunted, the pact of wargs from the previous night solidified that theory. 

The first problem they encountered came much faster than Bilbo would’ve preferred. The Company had stopped for the night in an old, burnt farmhouse. Bilbo turned to the Istari, “I can smell the lingering effects of smoke, Gandalf, not to mention the farmhouse faintly smells of something else. Something was here not too long ago…” The wizard nodded, “Let me try and discuss this with our leader, my boy.” That ended with the wizard storming out of the camp. Bilbo couldn’t help the hot glare he shot at Thorin’s back. Ronn orch, he thought, sourly. “Master Baggins! Over Here!” Bombur called out to the hobbit. Bilbo scurried over to the cook, who was holding two bowls of stew. “Can you give these to the princelings? They’re watching the ponies.” Bilbo smiled, taking the bowls, “Sure, Bombur.” 

The two princes were pacing back and forth when Bilbo found them. He raised an eyebrow, “What are you doing?” Kili jumped, “Mister Boggins! We have a problem!” Fili began, “You see, we had sixteen ponies…” Kili continued, “But now we only have fourteen…” Bilbo sighed, this was going to give him a headache. “And? Why are you telling me this?” Fili smiled, “We thought, that-” Kili jumped up, “Because you're our burglar, you can get them back!” Oh. Bilbo opened his mouth to say something when Kili pointed out an uprooted tree. The two princes made a dash toward it. Bilbo groaned, running after them (being careful to not spill the bowls of stew). The three of them came to a sudden stop right behind a large fallen tree. 

They were right outside of a camp. Trolls, Bilbo realised. Then the stench hit him, he fought the urge to gag. He turned to pointedly look at the princes. The three trolls argued in the background about the poor farmer and mutton. Kili smiled, “Okay, mister Baggins, you have to go rescue our ponies!” Bilbo stopped. “No.” Kili’s face falls, “What do you mean no?!” Bilbo puts the bowls of stew down, sighing. “You will go tell your uncle about this and then we’ll come up with a plan.” The dwarflings looked at Bilbo, “But you’re so small they won't see you!” Fili counters, Kili pushes Bilbo forward, “Hoot twice like a barn owl if you need help.” And with that, they took off. Bilbo caught Fili by the collar, stopping him from running away with his brother. “I need your help, Master Fili. I cannot do this alone.” The dwarf fought with him about it briefly before realising the same thing. Fili nodded, defeated. “Very well then, what should we do, Mister Baggins?” Bilbo glared at him, “None of that nonsense. Call me Bilbo.” Fili smiled, “Then you must call me Fili.” Bilbo nodded, “Now, here’s the plan…”

With a last reluctant glance back, Fili nodded at him, he made his way to the troll camp. He gagged, it smelt horrid. He inhaled deeply, then regretted that decision. He stepped out into the open, “Good Evening, Gentlemen.” The three trolls stopped bickering, turning their attention to the hobbit. “Oi, wot are ye?” The largest troll spoke, grabbing Bilbo. He squirmed, the large fingers around him tightened. “I’m uh” It was hard to breathe. “I’m a bur- a hobbit?” It was more of a question, but it did the trick. The troll looked perplexed, “A burglabit? Wots tha’?” Another troll asked. He ignored the name. There were spots in Bilbo’s vision now. He needed oxygen. “Thats-” He spotted Fili opening the pen where the ponies were being held. He took a shallow breath, “OI” The third troll called out, grabbing Fili. Fili screamed as the troll threw him. He ended up landing in a tree and Bilbo sighed, at least he was safe. He was going to throttle that thrice damned wizard the moment he saw him again, he’ll be lucky to escape with his beard and staff intact. “Bilbo!” Fili screamed, now realising the situation their hobbit was in now. Bilbo’s vision was blurring, but he saw Fili throw something at the hand holding him. That did nothing to help, if anything - it escalated the situation. Bilbo glared at Fili, “Go get the others!” And the dwarf didn’t argue, surprisingly, instead he jumped down and ran back to the camp at breakneck speed

Bilbo inhaled, “I suggest you let me go..” He spoke, his voice sounding strained to his own ears. The troll holding him looked at him, “An why should I do tha’?” Bilbo was able to manoeuvre his arms to a small knife he kept on his person. He was able to unsheath it when he heard the cries of his dwarves. He hung his head in relief, then took the small knife he held, and jammed it into the troll's fingers. The troll yelled, letting go of Bilbo. As he hit the floor, he took a deep breath of air, it made his vision swim. One of the dwarves ran over to Bilbo, pulling him upright. He wanted to puke. He swallowed the rising bile in his throat, grabbing for his knife. Right as he moved to start helping the dwarves, two of the trolls picked him up again. He swore colourfully. “Put down yer weapons or we rip ‘im apart!” One of the trolls yelled, pulling slightly on his arm to punctuate the threat. Bilbo made a sound of distress, something in his shoulder popped loudly. His eyes met Thorin’s, who was frozen mid-stride. Bilbo felt his heart drop, he shook his head slowly. Thorin ignored him, and stuck his sword into the ground below him. Bilbo groaned. 

And that’s how they found themselves in sacks. Three of his dwarves were above the fire, being turned like a spit roast. The next several moments included Bilbo convincing the trolls to not eat the dwarves (“They're infested with parasites, it's a terrible business, I wouldn't risk it, I really wouldn't.” “ Ye ‘ave parasites, ye traiter!”), and then nearly offering himself up to get eaten (“Then we’ll eat ye.” “Do it then.”) and Gandalf, ultimately coming to the rescue. Zero stars, do not recommend. While Oin checked on Fili for injuries, Bilbo limped over to a tree stump. Thorin had been glaring daggers at him from the moment Gandalf had come to the rescue. Bilbo sighed, not having the energy (emotionally nor physically) to deal with his dramatics. It could happen later, once his bruises and dislocated shoulder had been taken care of. 

Bilbo looked up and called the closest, least occupied dwarf he could find. Which happened to be Bofur. Once the dwarf had made his way over, he sat down. “What’s wrong Mister Baggins?” Bilbo sighed, “Would you mind helping me? I think I dislocated my right arm.” Bofur nodded hesitantly, “What do you need me to do?” Bilbo stood up, “Do you have any leather on you? I need something to bite down on.” Bofur handed him a belt. Bilbo nodded at him, “Thanks. Now, I need you to push my arm up when I tell you to, okay?” Bofur nodded. Bilbo put the folded up belt between his teeth, and nodded his head, signalling for Bofur to push his arm back into its socket. He let out a strangled scream at the sudden pain, his vision turned white for a moment. “I’m sorry Mister Baggins.” Bilbo shook his head, “Don’t worry about it,” He breathed, “Also, call me Bilbo, will you?” Bofur grinned, “Then you call me Bofur!” Bilbo nodded, “Very well then, Bofur.” The dwarf laughed, tapping his left shoulder before rejoining his brothers. He stood up to leave when he noticed Thorin berating Fili and Kili, he felt guilt gnaw at his insides. He shook it off as someone shouted something about a troll hoard. 

Bilbo refused to go anywhere near the damn cave, it reeked. While everyone else searched the cave, Kili and Fili came up to Bibo, heads bowed and looking pathetic. Kili looked like he was on the verge of tears, while Fili looked ashamed of himself. “We’re really sorry, Bilbo.” Fili seemed so much younger now. “It was… it was my fault for not acting sooner to try and save you from the trolls…” Bilbo shook his head, smiling, “You did what you could, Fili. And I’m proud of you for it.” He turned to Kili, eyebrows raised in question. Kili’s eyes misted over further. “I’m so sorry Mister Boggins! It was my fault you got so hurt!” He cried out. Bilbo shushed the taller being, “I don’t blame you, Kili.” He paused, “Granted, you both would’ve left me to deal with the trolls by myself if I hadn’t caught Fili, but you didn’t cause this bruising of mine. It’s okay.” Kili smiled, sniffling. “Can- can I also call you Bilbo?” The hobbit looked at him incredulously. “I told you to call me that before we left!” He chastised playfully. Kili and Fili laughed quietly at their hobbits' antics before Gandalf came up from behind them. “Bilbo, I have something for you.” The two dwarves skittered off to Eru knew where. Bilbo shook his head fondly, they were so young. What they were doing wasn’t meant 

Bilbo looked up at the wizard expectantly, “Yes, Mithrandir?” Gandalf took out a small, elven blade and handed it to the smaller being, “It is of elven make. It glows when Orcs and Goblins are nearby.” Bilbo shook his head, “Gandalf, I already have my weapons. I don't need another.” Gandalf just stared at the hobbit in return. His eyes met the Istari’s. They stood there for several more minutes before Bilbo scowled and snatched the sword out of the Wizards hand. The wizard wore a smug look. Bilbo stared at him for a moment. “Don’t think I won't break your staff for leaving us alone back there. Because I will.” Gandalf’s face remained smug. Bilbo scowled. “Let’s get moving!” Came a loud yell from behind Bilbo, who jumped at the sudden noise. The king-in exile glared at the hobbit, who in turn, glared right back. “Try to not fall behind, master Baggins.” 

Confound that damned dwarf! Bilbo had been roped into a conversation between Kili, Fili and Ori. He was content to glare holes into their leaders back, but the youngest members had different ideas. They were speaking about something that had to do with Nori and Dwalin. The sound of rushed movement coming closer to them pulled him out of his mind. “Someone’s coming!” He hissed at the three infront of him. The joyous chatter immediately died when they heard the movement Bilbo told them about. Within a matter of seconds, everyone had drawn at least one weapon each. Much to Bilbo’s chagrin, the dwarves made a circle around him, protecting him from danger. Kili and Fili were the closest to him, and he glared at them. Kili grinned back. Fili winked. 

Charging right at them was a wizard, Radagast The Brown, Bilbo realised belatedly. The wizard was shouting something about darker forces. Shit. Bilbo felt a dread pool in his belly like a ball of lead, he was right. As Radagast was talking to Gandalf, he spotted the hobbit. “Bilbo!” Bilbo smiled and waved, “Hi Radagast.” The wizard brightened, it had been many years since he’d last seen the hobbit. And the last time they parted, he looked to be more dead than alive. It was refreshing to see the light in his eyes. 

A howl tore through the air. Bilbo looked up, “Was- was that a wolf? Are there-” He paused, he spotted a large wolf looking creature stalk nearer to him. “Nope. It’s a warg.” As if to seal his fate, a warg jumped at him. He let out a sound of panic before burying the small letter opener of his into its skull. Another one lunged for their leader, Kili was able to draw and shoot his arrow in time; taking down the warg. “Warg scouts,” Thorin hissed, “Which means an orc pack is not far behind!” Bilbo groaned, “Orc pack?!” His day couldn’t have gotten any worse. 

Gandalf looked panic-stricken. “Who did you tell about your quest, beyond your kin?” Thorin looked offended. “No one.” Gandalf tensed, “Who did you tell?!” he demanded, “No one, I swear.” Thorin stepped forward. “Gandalf. What is going on?” Bilbo asked, drawing the attention of the stressed istari. “You are being hunted.” He informed the hobbit, gravely. “We ‘ave te get out of ‘ere.” Dwalin stated the obvious. Bilbo wanted to rip his hair out when he turned around to find the ponies had run. “Well, the ponies bolted, so I don’t suppose you have any other ideas?” The hobbit turned to look at Gandalf. 

Radagast smiled, “I’ll draw them off.” Gandalf turned, “These are Gundabad wargs, they are bound to outrun you.” Radagast huffed, “And these are Rhosgobel rabbits, I’d like to see them try.” And with that, he took off. “Follow me!” Gandalf bellowed. The group of dwarves and hobbit followed Gandalf through a large hill. Bilbo was amazed and amused to see Radagast giving the orc pack a run for their money. One of the dwarves grabbed Bilbo by the arm and pulled him closer to the group; they were hidden beneath a large rock. Bilbo’s breath caught in his throat when the growl of a warg sounded from right above him.

Chapter Text

“ Tibi protegam te usque ad supremum spiritum “

“ Radagast smiled, “I’ll draw them off.” Gandalf turned, “These are Gundabad wargs, they are bound to outrun you.” Radagast huffed, “And these are Rhosgobel rabbits, I’d like to see them try.” And with that, he took off. “Follow me!” Gandalf bellowed. The group of dwarves and hobbit followed Gandalf through a large hill. Bilbo was amazed and amused to see Radagast giving the orc pack a run for their money. One of the dwarves grabbed Bilbo by the arm and pulled him closer to the group; they were hidden beneath a large rock. Bilbo’s breath caught in his throat when the growl of a warg sounded from right above him. “

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Kili darted out, shooting the warg and its orc down. The company ran out once more, running out more into the open. Bilbo turned around with just enough time to stab the glowing letter opener into a warg’s skull, killing it. The animalistic blood-lust that, normally, dominated Bilbo when he was in another form, took over. To the outside eye, nothing much changed, appearance wise. Bilbo snarled at another warg and its orc rider. “ Ghashnuk thrak ogash .” He growled, a predatorial, crazed grin made its way onto his face. He charged, attacking the warg and its baffled, offended rider. Once he killed the warg and slaughtered the orc, he looked around. Relieved to find that there was no dwarf around, he laughed. His quiet chuckling cut off in his throat as he heard an orc growl; “ Urzûn ashkûn krash, Urz lugûrz. ” Bilbo turned, the blood-lust haze taking hold on his mind once more. This time with a hint of revenge. His vision blacked. 

When Bilbo came to, he found they were running again. This time, however, they were running towards the gates of Rivendell. Through the exhaustion coursing through his body, he chuckled. “Gandalf. Really?” The wizard looked down at him, “It is necessary. But yes.”  Of course Gandalf had directed them to the elves. He moved to run once more, when he felt a sharp pain shoot through his leg. He looked down to find blood trickling down his calf. Huh.. must’ve been stabbed . He thought distantly as they came to a stop. “ This was your plan all along. To seek refuge with our enemy.” Paranoid dwarves , Bilbo thought as Thorin hissed. “You have no enemies here, Thorin Oakenshield. The only ill will to be found in this valley is that which you bring yourself.” Chided the wizard in return. The dwarf ruler and the wizard bickered back and forth for a few minutes before they were interrupted by a dark haired elf making their way down the steps of the Last Homely House. 

“Mithrandir.” The Elf greeted tersely, eyeing the group of dwarves. Gandalf turned to the elf, “Ah, Lindir.” He bowed his head in greeting. Thorin growled something under his breath (“stay sharp”). Lindir looked at the wizard before allowing his eyes to wander the tight group of dwarves once more. His gaze stopped on a single individual within the middle of the group. Bilbo. Lindir hummed. 

Bilbo glanced back at the stairs Lindir had been standing on. His eyes caught Lindir’s. He smiled warmly. The elf in question raised an eyebrow in question. Bilbo shrugged helplessly. “We heard you have crossed the valley.” The elf looked at Gandalf once more. 

The wizard in question stood forward, “I must speak with Lord Elrond. It is of urgent business.” Lindir shook his head, “My Lord Elrond is not here in this moment.” Gandaf looked perplexed. “Not here? Then where is he?” The elf shook his head once more. 

The sounds of horns alerted Bilbo and Gandalf to Elrond’s location immediately. Lindir looked uncomfortable. Thorin looked alarmed. “Close ranks!” The dwarf shouted. Bilbo groaned as he noticed the dwarves making a protective circle around him, Ori and the two princelings. Utterly ridiculous . Bilbo opened his mouth to say something as Elrond came into view. 

“Gandalf.” The Elven lord greeted. Gandalf looked at the elf. “Lord Elrond, my friend. Where have you been?” The wizard lowered his head in greeting. The elf returned the gesture. “We’ve been hunting a pack of Orcs that came up from the South. We slew a number near the Hidden Pass. Strange for Orcs to come so close to our borders. Something or someone has drawn them near.” He raised an eyebrow at Gandalf, who had the decency to look somewhat apologetic. “That may have been us.” Lord Elrond continued forward before – rather gracefully – getting off his horse. 

He looked at the company of dwarves before greeting them. “Welcome Thorin son of Thráin.” He addressed. Thorin looked incredulous. “I do not believe we have met.” Elrond smiled, “You have your grandfather’s bearing. I knew Thrór when he ruled Under the Mountain.” Thorin looked indifferent. “Indeed? He made no mention of you.” Bilbo groaned silently at the obvious, immature insult. This was going to impact some things later on. And he wanted his meats, not the – rather appetising – greens Elrond gave to distasteful guests. Elrond, thankfully, paid no mind. “ Menna miriel a chîn thîdh dîn .” He spoke to a servant nearest to him. Gloin spoke up, “What is he saying? Is he offering us insult?” He demanded of the wizard. Bilbo outwardly groaned this time, bringing attention to himself. “No, master Gloin. He’s offering us food.” Bilbo offered exasperatedly. He noted Elrond’s look of mirth in his peripheral vision. Gloin blinked. “Well, in that case,” He grinned, “Lead on.” 

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Fili looked at Bilbo warily. He had witnessed the change in Bilbo’s demeanour while they battled with orcs and their riders at The Hidden Pass. It was.. unsettling .. at best. Something about the hobbit seemed unnatural in those moments. His nails and teeth grew sharp and his eyes went a golden colour for a brief few moments. Fili thought about the baffled look on the orc's hideous face as Bilbo spoke in their language. That was another thing. Bilbo knew Orcish . How he knew such a foul language, he didn’t know. What scared Fili the most was how predatory Bilbo looked as he attacked the Orc. There was not a single image of the Hobbit that looked sick at the sight of blood. No, what Fili saw was pure, sick satisfaction as the orc’s head fell to the floor. He just couldn’t get his mind off of the animalistic appearance their burglar had taken on while he thought no one was around. Fili saw his features return to somewhat normal, his eyes seemed more golden than his hazel irises. His pupils still looked cat like, they weren’t as sharp. His nails had seemingly retracted . He watched how Bilbo had looked around, seeing if anyone had been around. What he failed to do, however, was look up . 

Fili watched as their burglar laughed, mocking the orcs headless body near him. He watched as another orc came up behind the hobbit, and spoke to him. It was something the orc had said, that turned the burglar animalistic once more. The orc seemed to be content with playing, toying , with the smaller being. It infuriated Fili to see him be mistreated. The dwarf prince fought off the cold shiver that ran down his spine as he watched Bilbo kill the orc slowly. This time, he noted, Bilbo seemed different. Instead of the careless fighting, the need, the want , to spill blood Bilbo had portrayed earlier, had left him completely. This time his eyes and stature were hardened. The way he took out the orc showed Fili that the hobbits' actions were fueled by cold rage and a lust for revenge. 

This fact perplexed Fili. What did an orc do to Bilbo, a halfling , no less. Perhaps something to do with the cold winter they had several years prior? To the dwarves' knowledge, it wasn’t that bad of a winter, but according to other sources, it had been bad for other races (men specifically). Perhaps something had happened to the hobbits too? He shook off the shock he felt, he’d have to ask the hobbit later on. 

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Fili looked dazed to Kili. Perchance it was because they were staying with those elves? No, it couldn’t be that. Fee liked elves, despite them abandoning them during a war where they (See: Thorin and the other older dwarves) grew up.  Despite the bad blood between dwarves and elves. Fee’s just weird, Kili decided. What he failed to notice, however, was the look of dawning horror on the younger dwarves' faces as Fili stared at the small hobbit. Even someone that didn’t know the blond dwarf intimately could see the cogs turning in his head, the thoughts wiring around his brain as he tried to make sense of something . Something Kili missed entirely as another young dwarf, Ori, called out to him, drawing his attention away. 

Fili and Kili had always been close. They stuck to each other like glue. They had also had their differences. It was something Kili never prided himself in, all the fights he and his younger brother had gotten into over trivial things —“no, Kee, that's my comb. See? It even has my name in khuzdul on it.” “No. It’s mine!”  they were twelve at the time — he mused. One of the bigger arguments the two had, had been about elves, those damned tree-shaggers! Kili would curse when the younger of the two would swoon over the tall, pale, pointy eared beings. He would never understand the appeal of elves. Dwarves were much better. Ori was much better. He shook his head, face burning. Bad Kili! Stop thinking those things about sweet, kind, beautiful Ori! He chastised himself. The dwarf groaned. This was not going well. He knew what Ori was to him, but it wasn’t the time. And, besides, Kili wasn’t attractive, by any means. He had a short, almost non existent beard. Who would find that attractive? Ori would , his traitorous mind supplied. His face felt like it had been lit on fire, no doubt he was cherry pink. “Hey Kee!” 

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Bilbo knew immediately one of the princelings had seen the display by the pass. He groaned into his hands, this just complicated things. He was going to have to pull the prince aside to confide in them (a threat or two never hurt anyone…), and make sure they didn’t tell anyone. Bilbo will have to tell them at some or other point in time, preferably before the battle with Smaug, but he needs to find the right time… His thoughts trailed off as he made his way through Rivendell, to where he and the dwarves were going to be staying, he stopped.  Mahal give me strength to deal with your children . It had taken the word of Gandalf and Balin, who (thank Yavanna ) trusted Bilbo, to convince the Company, and their brooding leader to comply with Elrond’s wishes. 

The company’s quiet was soon broken by giggles and laughter emanating from the trees above; “It is the Calenandur Elrûn , The famous laeg amlug ! We have been blessed by his presence!” a light voice (He assumed it was Elladan) spoke, before another one chimed in. He snorted. “Indeed! And—'' The other voice (Elrohir, no doubt) gasped obnoxiously—“Are those naugrim ?! Who knew someone so great and mighty would converse with dwarves?” The laughter rang out again, like bells and wind chimes. Bilbo laughed openly, his light, airy voice joining the bells and chimes of laughter. Elladan and Elrohir were so going to pay the price later on. He grinned, a plan already coming to mind. Ori eyed Bilbo, what did the elves mean when they had called Bilbo a dragon? 

Bilbo soon thereafter figured out  which prince had seen him. It was Fili. He saw the look in the dwarf’s eyes when he looked at Bilbo. He sighed, this was going to be difficult. Not to mention Ori, their scribe was catching on fast. After mulling (not brooding.) over the options he had, he came to the decision he would inform the three youngest members. They would be the most open minded about what he was. It was his best bet, either that or he chances Fili or Ori to go to one of the older members of the company, and he would not, could not , let that happen. Now, it was just a matter of when . First, however, he had two elven princes to take care of. He bared his teeth in a mischievous grin, this would be fun. 

It took him a moment longer than he wanted to get up. He’d chosen to shift again, moreso to fuck with the young elven princes, but if he timed it right, he’d also be able to tell (or show) the three dwarves about him. He was abusing the fact that, apart from Elrond, Thranduil (he was abusing his power as an elven king), Gandalf and a few select dwarves that have all died, no one knew he had another form. He paused, Elladan had seen Bilbo’s wolven form before (as well as his draconic form, but that's a different story altogether). The elf would never pass up a chance to scare his brother, however. He shook his head, bemused. 

Bilbo had been shifting from time to time while the company travelled, however, he didn’t get much chance. He couldn’t sneak out very often, which only made his shift ever more painful, not to mention the fact that he was two heads taller than Gandalf when in his wolven form, despite his natural pelt being a mossy colour, his form was painfully obvious. He let out a slow whine before standing up on his paws. He slowly made his way through the gardens of Rivendell, no doubt the two cauniath would have found his dwarven companions. He snickered inwardly as he rounded a corner to see Elrohir and Elladan terrorising the dwarves (see: Kili, Fili and Ori). Elladan saw him, grinning like a madman, he nodded his head to where Elrohir was stationed, not far off from the large wolf. 

Bilbo slowly stalked over to the other elven prince. He spotted Tauriel in the corner of his eye, shaking her head with a deadpan look on her face. He moved his ears, catching the sounds of her muttering; “Really? Of all the people to ambush, he chose that Caun-dolen Aran to ambush, and in front of dwarves of all people!” He snickered inwardly at her exasperation, before growling lightly and pouncing the prince. Elrohir did not scream like a little girl. All the while the three young dwarves froze and Elladan guffawed loudly. Bilbo licked the elf’s face (it is still below me, Tauriel, thank you very much), covering him in slobber. Elrohir continued to scream, while Fili and Kili looked between the large, hulking form of the green, mossy looking wolf, before letting their gaze travel to Elladan, who was crying-laughing now.

Kili noticed the elated look on Ori’s face as he stared at the wolf in front of tem. He opened his mouth to ask what was going on, the dwarf turned his attention to him, eyes shining. “That’s Durinul kibilat khuzuda lassûna ! You know, the one that was spotted by Master Fundin? Yeah that one!” The scribe continued to ramble, and Kili froze, so that was the large wolf that had protected Fundin’s caravans all those years ago. He hums, it checks out . The one elf prince (Illadin? Ellordorn? Ellidin? Elladan. Wait- Elrirhor? Elrohir? Ellohair?) whistled.  The large canine stopped its descent on the other, now dishevelled, elf to look up at him. The wolf’s eyes narrowed, as if glaring. The brunette elf smiled, clasping his hands behind his back, “My dear Calendrû las , I do believe your friends are looking for answers, don’t look at me like that, I know of your plan,” The beast glared hard at him, “And besides, poor Elrohir called mercy several minutes ago.” The prince snickered. The large green beast let out what sounded like a sigh, before moving off of the messy-haired prince. 

The large beast looked at Elladan expectantly. “I know, I know.  I have gotten some helpers to go fetch you clothing. Now, I advise you to shift back before you hurt yourself,” He paused, looking back at Fili, Kili and Ori, “Or if anyone else sees you.” Fili raised an eyebrow, “What do you mean ‘if anyone else sees you’? And who are you talking to?” Elladan looked at Bilbo, who shook his head in defeat, before looking back at the dwarf princes with a grimace. “I suggest you look away for this next part, and, for the love of Middle Earth, don’t freak out.” Kili opened his mouth to retort, but was cut off by the sounds of crunching, cracking bones. Alarmed, he looked at his companions, before looking away, taking the advice. Once the sounds of breaking and snapping stopped, Kili looked back and gasped. There stood Bilbo, leaning against Elladan, looking pale and tired. The hobbit let out a deep sigh. “I s’ppose I should tell you what I am, I assume you with to know?” His speech was slightly slurred, but his eyes were clear. 

Fili cleared his throat; “Sure, let's hear it then.” He was concerned for Bilbo, but that didn’t mean he wasn’t curious. Another elf with blond hair came running out of the building behind them holding a plant. He was confused, but brushed it off when Bilbo sat down, beckoning them closer. Once they had all been seated, Bilbo took a deep breath. “So, I assume you will want the whole story? Or the basics?” Ori looked at the hobbit, “Everything, please.” Bilbo sighed, “It’s not going to be pretty.” He warned, before starting. 

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Bilbo was born before Morgoth still reigned supreme, and then lived through it. He still remembers when the orcs came and took him away when he was still a babe. His mother had defended him to her death. He couldn’t remember what she looked like, it had been too long. Time and trauma blurring her features. What he did remember, however, was the never ending torture he endured. He remembered the shackles placed on him. He remembers the first time he got skinned, when the orcs figured out he could shift into a wolf. He remembered the pain of having his pelt ripped from him. He remembered not having enough strength to shift back into his original body. No, not until his pelt had grown back. 

Then he was whipped, stabbed, and abused over and over and over again. He remembers the orcs pulling his scales off, he remembers being whipped while in his draconic form. He remembered the burns he endured. His body still held every scar he had obtained in that time. He still had the whip marks on his chest, his back. He still had the cuts and burns littering his arms. He still had the large scars on his legs where wargs had bitten him. 

He remembers the other skin changer, a cousin, there with him. A bear. 

He remembers how they were the only two to get out alive. He remembers how the orcs cut his wings, his tail, his talons, his snout. How he was skinned over and over and over again when he had regrown his pelt. He remembers the fire on him. He remembers how he and his cousin are the only two left. Bilbo was barely alive. He had been shot down with a large flaming ball. He still had the large, round scar on his stomach.

He owed Gandalf, Elrond and Galadriel for sparing him. Despite his want for death. The yearn for it. The sweet release of it. He was forever in their debt for never letting him pass. He reminisced about his meeting with Elladan and Elrohir. How Elladan looked at him with wonder, where Elrohir looked apprehensive. 

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By the end of his recounting of his life, The three dwarves in front of him looked horrified. Ori looked close to tears, while Fili looked as though everything made sense. “So, that’s why you acted the way you did with the orcs?” Bilbo nodded, “Indeed.” The prince stopped once more. “What did he say to you? I noticed you understood him. And you also said something.” Bilbo chuckled, “Well, I promised I would slaughter the first orc.” Kili paled, “And then the other orc, the one you watched my fight, said, ‘ Urzûn ashkûn krash, Urz lugûrz. ’ Which essentially means, ‘We meet again, you mutt.’” Bilbo chuckles. Ori looks at Bilbo, “Do you know any other languages?” Bilbo nodded, “Indeed I do. I know Sindarin, Orcish, Khuzdul,’ He ignored the mortified looks on their faces, “Draconic, Latin and a bit of the language of Manwë.”

He chuckled at their faces. “I learnt Khuzdul before it became such a secret.” Kili and Fili deflated. Ori paled once more, this time looking behind Bilbo. “Uh-” He was cut off with a loud “What the fuck?” Bilbo whipped around, only to come face to face with Dwalin. Bilbo grimaced. “Well. I guess we’re gonna be here for a while longer.”