Chapter 43: Arrival

In which there is a search, a race against time, and a strained meeting.

The dizziness came on suddenly and Sara sank to the ground, cradling her head between her knees, taking care to breathe in through her nose and out through her mouth. The stinging in her arm was intensifying. At first she had simply thought the pain was from the torn skin on the inside of her arm, so she had ignored it, but now the pain was building and spreading.

"How long till he awakens?" asked Thorin, straightening from his place beside Legolas. He turned to face her and upon seeing her quickly came to crouch in front of her. "Sara what's happening, tell me."

"My arm," she hissed, trying to hold back the tears threatening to spill forth. "It feels like it's on fire and I can't feel my fingers."

"We need to get you back to the others," he said, reaching out to shake the elfs foot in an attempt to wake him, but the foot was withdrawn sharply from his reach.

"It's not enough just to get her back to your healer," said Legolas sitting up.

"Apparently not very long," grinned Sara, trying to mask her pain.

"She must be taken to the halls of my father. The spider's venom will work much faster in her mortal body than mine or yours," said Legolas, looking at Thorin.

"How long?" asked Thorin.

"I need to see the wound to gage the time we have left," said Legolas reaching for her. Thorin caught his hand glaring at the elf.

"She did not invite you to touch her."

"Thorin," she hissed, wincing as her arm throbbed. "He's got to see it. Ease up." Thorin's jaw worked for a few seconds before his grip slackened and released. Legolas untied the cloth and gently raised her arm probing it.

"That hurts," she said. He frowned as his hands moved down her arm to her hand.

"I imagine it does. Tell me can you feel this?" He pinched her fingertips.

"No. I can see it but there is no sensation." He grunted and moved back to her bicep and then lifted it to peer at her underarm again.

"The venom is spreading quickly and although you did not receive a full dose it will still kill you if you don't reach a proper healer before dawn."

"Dawn," she said, glancing at Thorin's pale face. Night had just about fallen and the light was quickly fading. "But how will we get..."

"We are not too far from the place," said Legolas, looking disgusted as he tossed the remnants of her sleeve aside and pulled a clean bandage from his pocket. Quickly he wrapped her arm. "But we will have to travel with great speed through the night." He pulled a leaf from his pocket and held it out to her. "Eat it. It should slow the venom's spread, though I'm not sure of its effects on a mortal." She took it before Thorin could object. Two chews in she spat it out and agonized as the aftertaste prissisted mercilessly. Grateful, she accepted Thorin's water skin and swallowed greedily, but it only seemed to make the taste intensify, embedding itself into her taste buds and working down her throat.

"I should have warned you, it's a fowl taste," said the elf.

"Foul is an understatement," she coughed, shuddering. "A skunk's butt would taste better than this."

"You have eaten skunk," asked the elf, incredulous. She glared at him. He sighed and shook his head. "I know it's unpleasant but it works. You will likely feel weak for a while, so don't panic. Your body is going to slow down drastically but so is the venom." And indeed she could feel her heart slowing as her limbs grew heavy. Unable to remain upright she toppled sideways but Thorin was there to catch her.

"This better work," groweld Thorin, glaring at Legolas who raised an eyebrow.

"Or what? I know the only reason you woke me is to guide you back to the path."

"I woke you because Sara insisted we not leave you to the spider's. If I were on my own, I would not hesitate to leave you to your fate." She tried to smack Thorin but found she could not even muster the strength to speak. Legolas had only been awake for a few minutes and already they were fighting. She glared up at Thorin and he must have seen her reproachful for he closed his eyes and pinched the bridge of his nose.

"Sara risked her life to save yours. Because of your blatant disbelief in the spiders she is paying the price. If you had listened to us, none of this would have happened," accused Thorin before letting out a long breath. "But right now she is more important than my grudge against you. It will displease her for us to argue further, and will do more harm than good." Legolas stood and looked down at them, thinking.

"Why did she do that," he asked, peering at her in Thorin's arms. "Why push me aside." She shook her head minutely.

"She can be quite fierce," said Thorin, brushing a loose strand of hair from her face. "Who can say but her. I will only say that you are not the only one she has risked herself to save. It seems to be a habitual tendency of hers."

"Not a very wise one."

"On that we can agree, though convincing her of that is another matter entirely," said Thorin, lifting her as he stood. She rolled her eyes, unable to move any other part of her body. A smile pulled at the corner of Legolas's mouth.

"Very well," he said nodding in resignation. "You can't say now, but perhaps when you are recovered you will enlighten me as to your strange behavior. For now we must make haste." He reached to take her from Thorin, but Thorin held her tighter to his chest.

"Quite protective of her aren't you," said the elf, his mouth quirked in a smirk as he instead reached for a cord around his neck and pulled it over his head. A large white stone swung free of his tunic. He held the polished crystal to his mouth and whispered into its surface and brilliant white light shone from the stone.

"Come," said Legolas, drawing Orcrist and holding the light higher. "I will lead you back. Quickly now." Brushing a quick kiss on her brow Thorin hurried after the elf.

Sara did not know how long it took to reach the path again, for her mind was hazy as she struggled to keep her eyes open. Her body was numb and limp save the burning in her left arm, and despite her best efforts, she found herself slipping in and out of sleep. At times it seemed like hours and others mere seconds between sleeping and waking.

"She's comin out of it," said a voice. Sara opened her eyes blinked blearily up at who held her. Not until she heard the voice again did she realize who it was.

"Bofur?" she asked, her voice squeaking. Her strength had returned somewhat.

"Aye lass, we're here," said Bofur. "Bifur, Ori, and I" There was a string of dwarvish and she turned her head trying to see Bifur. She blinked and waited for her vision to clear, but everything remained dark blurs.

"Something is wrong with my eyes," she said, feeling panicked. "Where is Thorin?"

"Don't ya worry about him lass. He's talking to that Leggy elf."

"Legolas," corrected Sara without thinking.

"Yeah that one."

"What happened to you Ms. Sara?" asked Ori, concern lacing his voice.

"Spider bite," she said weakly. "Where are Fili and Kili? Are they ok?"

"Don't worry bout them right now," said Bofur, adjusting his grip on her. "They will turn up. Ya need to relax." Fear spiked through her, adding to the pain building in her stomach.

"What do you mean turn up? Bofur, where are they?" There was the sound of someone being slapped.

"Knock it off will ya," growled Bofur, swatting at Bifur.

"Tell me," she insisted. "Tell me what happened to them."

"They are lost," said Ori. "Fili, Kili, Bilbo and the elf Tauriel are all missing. We think they went after you and Throin, but none of them have returned yet." She could hear Legolas and Thorin talking somewhere close by.

"What about everyone else?" she asked. "Is anyone hurt?"

"Not too seriously," said Ori. "It didn't take long for the elves to stop fighting us and turn their attention to the spiders raining down on us."

"What of you lass, ya said there is something wrong with your eyes."

"Everything is blurry," she groaned. "And I feel like someone has a fist full of my guts." It was quiet for a moment and she felt fur brush her cheek as Bofur pulled something heavy over her. A comforting smell wafted over her and she knew it was Thorin's coat.

"Bofur, take me to Thorin please."

"He's a wee bit busy lass."

"I know," she said. "I want to know what's going on."

"It's not a good idea," he said. She could hear Thorin and Legolas breaking into an argument.

"You can take me or I will go myself." She shifted slightly, mustering all her strength as if she meant to get up.

"All right!All right, lass. I'll take you." Relieved but satisfied, she let herself fall back into Bofur's chest. Grunting, he rose to his feet.

"Durin's beard but ya two are a good match. Yer both as hard stubborn as diamonds." Another slap. Another expletive. "What it's true enough," defended the toymaker.

"Just take me to him, Bofur," she pleaded. Grumbling, he moved off and she grit her teeth against the pain as his movement jostled her.

"It's the only way she will live," came Legoles's voice from a blond blur. "You have to let me take her now."

"You're not taking her anywhere," retorted Thorin.

"Take me where?" asked Sara, cutting into the conversation from her place in Bofur's arms.

"I told you to keep her over there," said Thorin, clearly displeased.

"She threatened to come on her own if I didn't bring her," said Bofur. "She says her vision is blurred."

"That's not a good sign," said Legolas drawing closser. Before he could reach her Thorin scooped her out of Bofur's arms.

"Thorin, where are Fili, Kili, Bilbo, and Tauriel?"

"Lost. We are looking for them," he said simply.

"How long have they been gone?" she asked.

"Almost four hours now," said Legolas. "You need to leave with me now or it could be too late. You have at most five hours left."

"What about the others? We can't just leave them behind. We have to find them, they could be in real trouble."

"But you will be dead," insisted Legolas, irritated. "Myrin and Lierin are out looking for them but we don't have time to wait. We must go now. If I carry you and run we can reach the palace in a little over three hours. Once we arrive I can send others back to aid in the search. If you remain with your friends you will die and help may come too late to save them."

"I'm coming with you," said Thorin.

"We cannot both go. Your kin and my Captain are missing. One of us must remain behind to keep order, and you cannot be the one to go, you are not fast enough," said Legolas doggedly. "Even if by some grace you managed to get there in time, what do you expect would happen when you arrived? A lone dwarf turns up with a woman in his arms? You would be imprisoned on the spot and by the time you told your story to the right person Sara would be dead, but they will not question me. It must be me and it must be now."

Thorin's grip on her slackened just a little. "How do I know you will treat her well."

"Whether or not my life was really a risk, she still put herself in harm's way for my sake," said Legolas. "May Iluvatar strike me dead if I let her come to harm."

"And you will send back help to look for the others?" asked Sara.

"I swear it." She nodded but gasped as their stomach protested the movement. Perhaps it was best she had not eaten since morning.

"Sara?" whispered Thorin into her hair.

"It's getting worse," she said "My arm burns, I cant see clearly, and my muscles ache all over."

"She's running out of time," said Legolas impatiently, stepping closer.

"It seems I have no alternative," said Thorin. "Take her, but not Mahal or Iluvatar nor any other will be able to save you if she comes to harm."

"She won't. I swear to you. Airidan!" called the elf prince.

"Here," said Aridan, approaching.

"I'm going on with Sara. Keep up the search until I send help. If they are not found by then bring the dwarf company along to the palace."

"What about the dwarves? Should we disarm them once again?" Thorin's arms around her stiffened.

"You can't do that," said Sara.

"She is right. Who knows but there are more spiders about. Disarm them once you reach the front gates but not before. My father will no doubt wish to see them immediately upon arrival."

"Very well," said Airidan. "May the Valar speed you on your way."

"Find them please," said Sara before Airidan could leave. "They are my brothers and best friend."

"I will do all I can but I can promise nothing. I am however fairly certain we will find them," said the elf. Legolas approached, his arms outstretched and Sara stiffened.

"Your men are not going to hurt or torment the others just because you and I are gone?" she asked. Legolas huffed irritated.

"Given our experiences this evening I should be asking you that. Can I trust your companions not to attack and overpower my guard?"

"My company will follow orders," said Thorin stiffly.

"See that they do," said Legolas reaching for Sara. Thorin bent his head and kissed her soundly on the mouth.

"Well I can see what your dwarf brother meant when he said it was not his place to take you as his own," said Legolas sarcastically. Thorin ignored him.

"See that Sara receives the care she needs," he instructed, sliding her into the elf waiting arms.

"Stay out of trouble," said Sara seriously, resting her head on Legolas's shoulder. The strength she had mustered was failing again and she let herself relax into the elf's grip.

"That sentiment is clearly more suited for you," replied Thorin. He looked to Legolas. "Go with speed and strength."

"I will," replied Legolas nodding. "Look for more of my kin about dawn." And before she could do so much as wave at the others they were off up the track. To her relief Legolas moved like beaded oil on water, seeming to almost float above the ground so quick and smooth was his gate.

"I didn't know elves could move so fast," she said, looking up into his blurry face, the light from the stone once again around his neck illuminating it. "How long can you maintain this speed?"

"I can sustain the pace for several days if need be, though you do hamper me somewhat."

"Sorry," she said.

"No need to be. I am aware that your injury is inflicted because of me. Loath as I am to admit it, you were correct about the spiders, but I cannot fathom why it should be so. Never before has anything like this happened. Something unusual is happening in this forest. For many years there has been a creeping evil building in the South, but recently it seems to have burst and spewed forth like some great dark boil on the land. Never have I seen so many spiders coordinated for an attack. Something must have drawn them in." He looked down at her. "You would not happen to have anything to do with that would you? You are quite strange. I know you have all been lying unabashedly, thought I sense no malice in it. It seems to be centered around you and to a lesser extent Mr. Baggins. What I wonder is the true reason you travel with them. Some bits of your story ring with truth, but bafflingly, they are the more outlandish portions."

"They say the best way to hide something is to tell the truth," said Sara, clenching her teeth against the mounting pain in her body. He must have caught the note of discomfort for he came to a halt.

"Is the pain growing too great?" he asked. She nodded. In point of fact she had been trying to hold back her tears for some time now. How on Earth had Dwalin lived with this pain for so long? No wonder he had been so crabby recently. Her resolve cracked and tears began to drip down her cheeks. The muscles in her core were clenched so tightly she feared she would never be able to relax again. It seemed to emanate through her in waves as she breathed. She would never complain about cramps again if she managed to live through this.

"Open your mouth. I have not wanted to give you this for it is very potent though effective, but it seems we have no choice."

"Potent?" she moaned.

"It will make the pain cease, but it will make you sleep and you are also likely to be very nauseous when you wake again."

"So ether I sleep through the pain and wake up sick, or I don't make it in time and I sleep through my own death." She had not wanted to show it in front of Thorin, but having an invisible clock ticking away what could be the last minutes and hours of her life was surreal and deeply unsettling. She hadn't wanted to add to Thorin's stress, especially with Fili, Kili, and Bilbo missing. He was first and foremost their uncle and King and her visible fear would only have made it more difficult for him to let her go. He should be there waiting for them. Besides there was nothing he could do for her. But she had no such compunctions about expression in front of Legolas.

"Don't speak that way. You will arrive in time. Now open your mouth." She did and something thick and sweet drizzled onto her tongue. A new sort of warmth spread through her, easing the pain and relaxing her. Now not only her vision was fogged but her mind as well. She reached to rub her face which was tingling. The rough cloth of her glove brought her up short. Panic cleared her senses, piercing through the haze for a short moment.

"Legolas you have to promise me something. Don't let them take my gloves off."

"Why? They are filthy."

"So wash them," she said hastily. "But don't let anyone take them off my hands."

"Whyever not?"

"Just don't. I have a … a" She yawned and was sure her lungs could not get enough air. "A birthmark. It's embarrassing." She was fading fast.

"This form a girl who doesn't bother to cover the scars inflicted by Azog?"

"Just promise me the gloves stay on," she insisted. "You owe me that much at least for trying to save you."

"I thought I was repaying that debt now," he said, chuckling.

"No, you're fixing a mistake, not making up for it. The gloves stay on. Please!"

"Don't fret. It is a small matter but clearly important to you. Your gloves will remain on your hands. I will see to it, though I know you're lying again. I can do this small service for you."

"You promise?" she insisted, her muscles heavy as lead.

"I swear it. I will see to it you maintain your gloves." With his assurance she felt herself give in and fall into the fading black.

Passing Sara into the elfs arms and watching him run away with her had been one of the hardest things Thorin had yet to do. Her face had been so pale but the pain she had been trying to mask had been his undoing. Legolas was right, he was not able to get her the help she required but the elves could. He snorted in disbelief remembering her stubbornness. Even faced with the possibility of her own death she had still not wanted to look after herself as much as Fili, Kili, and Bilbo. He would have to try and break her of that habit or she might not survive the coming months.

It was so disconcerting to have his priorities shift so drastically and quickly, but Sara just seemed to affect that sort of change wherever she went. Months ago his major concern was with the dragon in Erebor, weeks ago it had shifted to the coming battle, only hours ago it had been making peace with the elves, and now he was torn between worry for those lost and the one who gone ahead. The elf brothers Myrin and Lierin had been gone for almost five hours. Despite the coming dawn, the lack of sleep, and having nothing to do save scanning the trees for approaching figures, the entire company remained awake, milling about as the tension built. Thorin ran a hand over his face, pinching the bridge of his nose aware of the footsteps stopping by his side.

"It is said that worry does not help in a crisis," said Balin. "Still knowing it's ineffective does not make it diminish." Thorin did not reply as his gut writhed like live snakes sliding past each other, making him nauseous. He looked down at Fili's blade in his hand. Fili had made it himself after many hours under Thorin's tutelage. "Don't fret. They are smart lads and more than capable. They will turn up with Mr. Baggins in tow."

"I wish I had your confidence," said Thorin, slipping easily into dwarvish. "Greatly do I wish to see this blade reunited with its mate."

"It will be," assured Balin, also shifting to speak in their native tongue. "Just as you will be reunited with Sara before long." Thorin looked up at the old diplomat sharply. "What? Did you think my brother was the only one who noticed your mooning over her?"

"I suppose it's no great secret," admitted Thorin sheepishly.

"Only a dimwit could miss it laddy."

"How do you always manage to make me feel younger in spite of my almost 20 years on you?" snorted Thorin.

"Older you may be, but I believe myself to be wiser and more patient than both you and Dwalin put together."

"You always did manage to get the boys to do their lessons when I was at my wit's end with them."

"Just so," said Balin. "What are your orders? How should we proceed from here?" Thorin groaned and ran yet another hand over his face.

"What? Not going to try and convince me yet again to make peace with the elves?" he asked.

"I left that to Sara, she having the better chance of swaying your opinion," said Balin, looking for all the world like a satisfied tutor.

"Little though I like to admit it, your judgment was sound. Sara has indeed swayed my opinion, thus we will give her plan, in its entirety, our best effort. We will attempt to make peace with the elves. She says it is not only in our best interest for the coming battle, but also in the coming decades for our people."

"How do you wish to proceed? How much do we reveal?"

"No more than necessary," said Thorin, watching Airidan and Ruven talk quietly in elvish across the stone pad. "The elves will no doubt need to be told of our quest and possibly our intentions in Lake Town."

"What of Sara?"

"Her true origins and knowledge are hers to reveal, and I think would be best left unknown unless absolutely necessary. Even the mark on her hand."

"Then how do we explain her presence in the company? And what of Bilbo once we recover him?"

"The simple truth," replied Thorin. "Gandalf insisted we bring them both and threatened to abandon us if we refused. Who can know the workings of the wizard mind."

"And what of the battle? Do we warn them, and if so, how do we convince them of the future without revealing Sara?"

"We tell them what Dwalin reported and what Beorn overheard. We phrase it as a strong possibility rather than a certainty."

"That's all well and good, but what of the old fewd? The gems of Lasgalen?" Thorin blew out a weary breath. For all that he was King, he hated dealing with the politics of it all. He had dealt with his fair share over his many years, but it had been something he had to learn and develop on his own. Confident as his father and grandfather had been before the fall of Erebor, they had seen no reason to spoil Thorin's childhood, so he had been allowed to spend his days with his mother and younger brother and sister. It was not until after they had settled in the Blue Mountains that they began his training to someday take over as king, but even then there had been no urgency. His father had often been busy covering his grandfather's deficiencies as his mental facilities had failed, so lessons had been sporadic at best and after the war began, they had ceased altogether. Many times he had felt less than capable or qualified to rule his people, but with Balin and Dwalin at his side, he had made do. No one could ask for a more loyal friend than Dwalin and although, to his detriment, Thorin had not always headed Balin advice and council, he had been a tremendous asset over the years and a dear friend. Their bond had been solidified after the battle for Moria which had made orphans of the three of them, and king of Thorin. It was only recently that he and Dwalin seemed to butt heads, and though he knew the warrior to still be upset with Sara, he was well aware of the cool feelings that Dwalin held for him as well. Despite this, his friend had still returned to be by his side, however reluctantly.

"You know I was not privy to our people's politics at the time of that incident. I know only what I have been told, and I am inclined to believe as I have been taught."

"Perhaps we should hold that in reserve until we are able to ascertain an account from the Elves. I suspect the truth lies somewhere between the two stories."

"I find that agreeable, and if we must make amends to win their support, then perhaps within reason, a compromise can be reached." Balin regarded him for a long moment, his expression unreadable. "What occupies your thoughts old friend?" asked Thorin, feeling a bit uneasy under Balin's gaze.

"It's just a pity," said Balin, his face splitting in a sardonic smile.

"What is?"

"Pity we only met Sara so recently. She would have been very helpful several times in the past when your head needed turning. You can have quite a stiff neck at times." Thorin scowled, but before he could reply a shout of Elvish came from the woods, effectively ending their conversation.

"What was that?" asked Bofur, looking at Airidan.

"Myrin, he's found someone," said Ruven, coming to peer into the forest.

"Who?" asked Nori from beside the elf? Airidan pointed and they all waited with bated breath as two figures emerged from the gloom, bathed in the red glow of a lantern. Myrin led Fili along with a light hand on his elbow. There was a gash across Fili's forehead, but his face was open and alert as he followed the elf. In his arms lay the limp form of Bilbo. Thorin moved to stand on the path, waiting for Fili to be able to see them. Save for the shift in his weight as he carried the hobbit, Fili seemed to be unharmed. Relief mixed with worry for Kili and Bilbo. The hobbit's arm was bent at an odd angle between elbow and wrist, but his chest rose and fell in a steady rhythm. Where was Kili? Had he and Fili truly been separated? At last Myrin led Fili onto the path, and his nephew's face lit with recognition and relief, as Myrin went to talk to Airidan.

"Uncle,"called Fili, stepping forward. "Where is Kili?"

"He and the elf Capitan are still missing. What happened?"

"We saw the spider take Sara and you and Legolas chase after her" said Fili, brushing away a fresh trickle of blood from his temple. "We tried to follow you, Kili and I, unaware that Bilbo and Tauriel we're also following, but we were waylaid by several spiders and got separated. The last time I saw Kili he and the elf captain were fighting a group of spiders on their own. I can't say what happened to them, I was too busy trying to help Bilbo."

"What happened to the lad?" asked Oin, pushing past the others who had gathered to examine the Hobbit. "And what of yourself? Any injury other than a cut on your head?"

"I'm fine, but I fear Bilbo has a broken arm."

"How'd that happen?" asked Bofur, coming to see his friend.

"A spider had him up in a tree much like Sara the other day, but somehow he managed to kill it and it dropped him."

"Why didn't you catch him?" accused Bofur.

"I was busy fighting off spiders of my own down on the ground," defended Fili. "Actually, he fell right on top of the spider that had me in its grasp at the time. He killed the spider, unfortunately he was also injured."

"He will recover," said Oin reaching for Bilbo. "Though it's a nasy break, both bones are snapped, he's just lucky it's not compound. It's no wonder he passed out from the pain." Fili stepped away surrendering the hobbit to Oin and Thorin drew him into an embrace, heedless of the pain in his shoulder, but after a quick moment Fili pushed away, urgency in his eyes as he searched the gathered faces.

"She's not here," he said. "The Elf Prince, Legolas, is taking her on to the palace."

"Why? Uncle what happened to her?" insisted Fili panicked. Thorin quickly explained what had happened to Sara.

"I'm glad you sent her ahead," said Fili after a few minutes. "Will they be able to save her?"

"Prince Legolas seems to believe they can, but I am still uneasy leaving her in the hands of the elves."

"Fret not," said Airidan. "She will have already received the antivenom and will be sleeping it off. She may even be awake by the time we arrive. But before we leave we must find our lost companions, tell me young prince, what can you tell me of their last known whereabouts?"

"I'm afraid I can't add to what I already told Myrin," said Fili apologetically. "I wish I could."

"Very well," nodded Airidan, frowning. "We will continue the search. We should be joined by some trackers from the palace before long. Ruven!" Ruven approached and after a few words in Elvish turned and disappeared into the black of a night that was almost dawn.

"Thorin," said Oin, concern pinching his weathered features. "Dwalin is not well. I warned him not to over use his arm but with the spider's attack he had little choice."

"How bad is it?" asked Thorin, aware Airidan was listening.

"The dead flesh is spreading. I fear he may lose the use of his arm, and I would not like to think what happens when it spreads to his chest."

"What of the herbs you were given earlier?" asked Fili. "Aren't they helping?"

"They were meant to help with the symptoms only, not to truly stop the venom's work," cut in Airidan.

"Let me take a look at him," said Myrin, letting his pack slip to the ground. "I have experience with the spiders." Thorin considered him for a moment, but didn't miss Oin shaking his head and folding his arms over his chest. He glanced at Dwalin who was slumped over where he sat next to Dori and Nori. Never had he seen his friend look so poor. He nodded at Myrin.

"Do what you can, but don't expect him to be happy about it," said Thorin. Oin harrumphed and glared at him but Thorin ignored him. Myrin made his way to Dwalin but the warrior was so far gone he could barely muster a foul look for the elf.

"It doesn't look good," reported Myrin returning after a few minutes. "Your healer is indeed correct. He may lose the use of his arm entirely if he is not seen as soon as possible. We should leave now. Even then there's no guarantee that it can be saved."

"What about Kili and your captain?" asked Fili, looking to Thorin.

"We continue to search for them," said Airidan. "It is nearly dawn now but if you wish to press forward now I will allow it."

"Allow it," snorted Oin. "As if you could stop us if we wished to go. We outnumber you five to one."

"Oin," warned Thorin.

"You intend to simply surrender and be their prisoners even though we have the upper hand?" asked Oin scornfully.

"Like it or not we have nowhere to run," said Fili cooley. " Not only do we need the elves help but they also have Sara. What would you have us do?" Oin looked as though he might like to try fighting anyhow and Thorin could feel the building tension and was aware of the rest of the company listening intently.

"There is to be no more fighting," he said looking around at them one by one. He had to let them know where they stood now.

"Why?" asked Airidan, looking uneasy. "Why will you surrender to us?"

"Because," said Thorin, looking at Fili last. "It would behoove my people to try and revive an alliance that once existed between our people." The shock on the elfs face was nothing to the look he received from Dwalin. There was utter defeat in his eyes as he shook his head, but Balin placed a hand on his shoulder nodding his approval.

"Why would you want to do that?" asked Myrin watching him warily.

"That is something I will discuss only with your king," said Thorin firmly. "As for now…" But he was interrupted by the near silent but swift arrival of seven more elves. Unintelligible spurts of elvish flew through the air and Thorin ground his teeth, frustrated at not being able to understand. Despite his earlier warning, several of the company had their hands on their weapons, bodies poised to spring into action. Even his own fingers curled tighter around Fili's sword, which he still carried.

"We will leave now," said Airidan. "They will continue searching for our lost companions and we will depart for the palace." Thorin looked at him feeling torn. Greatly did he wish to hasten forward and be assured that Sara was well and have Dwalin and Bilbo seen to, but he was reluctant to leave without knowing Kili's whereabouts.

"I want to stay and help," said Fili, stepping forward.

"What good could you do in the search?" asked Airidan dismissively. "It would be best if you left with us."

"I disagree Kili is my brother and I won't leave this forest without him."

"What of Sara lad?" asked Bofur shouldering his pack before stooping to lift the still unconscious Bilbo into his arms. "Yers will be one of the fist faces she wishes to see, second only to Thorin here." Thorin shot him a warning look which was wholly ignored by the toymaker.

"She is safe with the elves. I don't believe the prince would allow anything to happen to her, but Kili is still in peril. He could be injured and were Sara in my place she would not hesitate to stay behind." Fili looked at him and Thorin pinched the bridge of his nose. He was going to have a bruise there.

"We only just recovered you. I'm not anxious to separate from you again. I much prefer to look for him myself."

"Let him go," said Balin. "You are needed to speak with King Thruduail, but Fili can be spared."

"But what good can you possibly do?" asked an irritated Airidan. "You are no elf, hardly equipped to leave the path and search for the forest."

"So send me out with someone. Kili is my brother and I understand the way he thinks better than any other than our mother. The pain from my injury will keep my mind clear, and I have already notified the effects of the fern. Kili will likely be inclined to resist recapture, but if I am there he may come without a fight. Please he's my brother and I won't be satisfied till he is restored to me." Airidan studied him for a long moment before shaking his head.

"Very well, but on your own head be it. We are not responsible for your safety."

"I understand," nodded Fili. "Uncle?" Thorin rubbed the back of his hand under his chin.

"So be it," he said letting his hand drop before he offered Fili his other sword. "Take this and see that you and Kili return or your mother will have all three of our heads."

"I swear it," said Fili, sliding the blade over his shoulder and into its sheath. Within a few short minutes all was prepared and Thorin watched as Fili disappeared back into the dark perilous gloom of the forest. Turning his face forward, he strode to the head of the group and stood by Airidan and Myrin. Bilbo lay in Bofur's arms and Dwain was supported between Dori and Bifur. He inclined his head to the elves and without a word they led the group forward down the path at a brisk pace, eager to leave this forest of nightmares behind.

It was not until past noon that they arrived at a narrow stone bridge spanning across a dark river far below. The forest here seemed to draw strength from the water, for the trees and their leaves had grown green and healthy in place of the sickly gray of the inner forest. Sunlight penetrated through the canopy with strong bright fingers that brought an unexpected boon to Thorin. He had not realized just how much he missed the warmth and light of the sun. They stood now under the full branches of many large beech trees, but across the bridge a short path led into the side of a stony hill. Great tall doors stood behind heavy pillars fashioned to resemble the trees around. Just as he had felt entering Rivendell, the air around them seemed to hum and thrum with a palpable but invisible magic.

"Here is the Woodland realm and King Thranduil's carvin halls," said Airidan, bringing them to a halt just in front of the bridge. He turned to look at Thorin expectantly. "Once you cross this bridge you will need to surrender your packs and weapons. Is that understood?" Begrudgingly Thorin agreed.

"We will comply," he said, turning to look at the others to be sure they had indeed heard. Although they were none too happy about this turn of events they each nodded their agreement. "Lead on." And so the elf did, leading them over the bridge and under the lee of white stone pillars. As Bifur, Dwalin, and Dori came over last followed closely by Myrin the doors before then cracked and swung open to reveal elf guards waiting for them. Airidan pushed forward and after a few whispered words passed by the guards before turning and waving Thorin forward.

"Leave your belongings here," he said, pointing to the floor beside the entrance. "The king is expecting you. Quickly call your men inside and let us be on our way. King Thranduil does not like to be kept waiting." One by one the others were called forward and they surrendered their packs and weapons, though the elves did not make them turn out their pockets again. Thorin had feared that Dwalin may refuse to surrender his weapons, but the simple truth of the matter was that the warrior could not have held a weapon in his own defense, so thoroughly had the venom wreaked its havoc. Once they were all inside, the doors swung closed and they were bathed in the light of the many lanterns and torches along the walls and path. Four more armed guards appeared and escorted them forward.

Thorin's steps were heavy as they drew further and further from the doors. Where was Sara? Was she indeed well? Had they arrived in time for them to save Dwalin's arm, and what of Fili and Kili? Had they found each other or had they been found by another foul creature. So intent was he on his own thoughts that almost did he miss the change in atmosphere as they passed through narrow doors and began to climb a flight of steps. The stairs were suspended in a large cavern, and shafts of sunlight poured like sand through skylights in the stone roof giving a soft light to their surroundings. They followed the stairs upward towards a central platform upon which sat a large throne of wood that seemed to have been grown rather than shaped by hand. A tall slender figure sat reclined easily in the chair, his face hidden in the dull shadows cast across it, but Thorin could see blue gray eyes watching him keenly as they approached. Airidan raised a fist, bringing them to a halt before he ascended the last few steps. He sunk to a knee, an arm crossed over his chest in salute as he addressed the King, his head bowed. The figure raised a hand, waving away Airidan like nothing more than last autumn's leaves. Airidan stepped to the side and the figure leaned forward, long white gold hair spilling down to frame the dower face of King Thranduil. He wore a crown of berries and leaves upon his brow and was draped in cloth of silver and dull green.

"Hail Thorin, son of Thrain," said the elf king beckoning him forward. Thorin stiffened. He was no subject to be commanded by this or any elf, no matter his station. The corner of Thranduil's mouth pulled in a smug smile. "Come Dwarf King, join me. I insist, for I have many questions. Let us hope for your sake that the answers you provide are more satisfactory and truthful than the ones you supplied to my son." Thorin stood still, unmoving, trying to reign in his anger. He must tread carefully in this encounter, everything it seemed depended on the outcome. From behind a guard nudged him forward and reluctantly, warily, he climbed the few remaining steps till he stood on the stone platform facing the elf king.

"What do you want of me?" asked Thorin, never taking his eyes off the pale slim face before him.

"Isn't it I who should be asking that question," asked Thranduil drolly. "Tell me, what brings you and your," his eyes flicked to the company behind him still on the steps, "disheveled companions to my door? What could possibly have brought you to my realm?"

"Necessity and the advice of a wizard and Beorn The Woodsman," said Thorin simply. One of Thranduil's dark eyebrows rose in disbelief.

"A wizard and the skin-changer? Do tell."

"We are being pursued by the goblins of the Misty Mountains and Azog The Defiler. The road to South is in disrepair and overrun while the road to the north runs too close to Mount Gundabad. We were advised to take your path as a safer option."

"Few but an elf would call that route safe," said the elf king, his long fingers curling around the wooden scepter in his hands. "Many had thought your old enemy to be dead and if the woman who arrived with my son did not bear his recent work upon her body, I would be disinclined to believe you. But tell me, why do you seek to travel this far east. I hardly believe it is to see to the marriage of your heir and nephew. What else in these lands could draw your attention more than the mountain and the treasure therein?"

"Our business is with our home and the worm who took it from us," admitted Thorin, crossing his arms over his chest.

"So you quest to reclaim your homeland and slay a dragon?" asked Thranduil, his voice dripping with scorn. "None, not even you, would be so foolish as to try and reclaim the mountain with such a small party. You could not be so reckless. No, I suspect a more prosaic motive, attempted burglary or something of that ilk."

"One cannot burgle something that belongs to them," said Throin.

"I suspect the dragon would disagree. You must have found a way inside the mountain. Of course your kind would leave a secret way in and out. You seek to acquire that which would bestow upon you the power to garner others to support your cause. You seek the Arkenstone." Thorin remained quiet, but the elf king smirked and leaned back on his throne. "So that is it. Tell me, Thorin son of Thrain, why should I let you continue on your way? Why should I allow you to wake the worm and risk his wrath upon my lands and those surrounding it?"

"Because Gandalf the Grey set us upon this path for reasons of his own," said Thorin. "He believes it unwise to leave Smaug to fester in my people's home."

"Mithrandir, yes. Legolas said you claim to journey with the wizard. What proof is there that you have come with his blessing?"

"Why else would we allow a hobbit and human female in our midst if not for the insistence of the wizard."

"And why would Mithrandir insist so? What could they possibly add to your party?"

"Who can fathom the workings of Gandalf's mind but he. Unless we agreed to bring them he threatened to abandon the quest."

"And yet he is not here," said Thranduil with a fake smile. "Where have you lost your wizard if indeed you ever truly had one?"

"He would not give us details, only said that he was needed away to the south at the behest of the White Council," said Thorin.

"Indeed," said the Elf King, drumming his finger on the arm of his throne as he studied Thorin. Standing he pulled forth a blade. Orcrist glittered in the sunlight as the elf king descended the steps and held the tip inches from Thorin's chest. "And where did you get this blade?"

"What I told your son was no lie," said Throin, glaring up at the elf king, his arms still folded over his chest unflinching. "We recovered it from a troll hoard and after Lord Elrond named the blades for Gandalf and myself, he returned them to us with his good will."

"If that is so, then what under the stars compelled you to go to Rivendell. I am not unaware of the unjust animosity you hold for my people and all other elves."

"Unjust," fumed Throin. "As far as I can recall it was wholly justified when you turned away an alli who was starving and homeless." The elfs smirk wavered momentarily but did not give way though he did once again sheath Orcrist at his side. When he spoke, his voice was velvet and death.

"And what pray tell would a sleeping child recall of such matters except what have been told him later? What would a mear boy know of such sorted relations?"

"I know what my eyes could tell, and I never saw aid come from your people or any other. As for what drove us to Rivendell it was once again necessity and the admonition of Gandalf. One of our company was grievously injured and we had not the skill or means to see to her relief."

"Her relief," echoed the Elf King. "I see. It would seem this is not the first time you have been forced to seek aid from those you despise."

"I do not despise the Elf lord of Rivendell, and even if I did, is it not a king's duty to see to the safety and well-being of those he is responsible for, no matter his personal feelings. We were all skeptical what a woman or hobbit could contribute to such a quest, but they have, and continue, to prove Gandalf's faith in them was not misplaced. We went to Rivendell out of necessity to see the Ms. Miller's needs."

"You are right," said Thranduil striding past him, his hands clasped behind his back. He peered down at the company. "It is a king's duty to see to the safety of his people, though it seems you will require more... practice if the shape of your company speaks to your competence." Thorin ground his teeth.

"Is it not also a king's duty to see to the safety of his lands and rid them of any potential threat to his or any other people crossing them?" asked Thorin cooley. Thranduil turned back to him, the smile slipping from his lips to be replaced by a scowl.

"We have been working to clear the forest of the pestilential beasts, but there have been some unforeseen developments."

"So we encountered, and on your protected path no less" said Thorin, pleased to see Thranduil's expression sour. He felt a twinge of guilt. This would not help him achieve his goal. "But, I did not come here to lobby a complaint." Thranduil approached and bent down, his face uncomfortably close.

"And yet your words ring with remonstration. Tell me Thorin Oakenshild, if not for complaint, then why have you come?"

"I have come to see if an old alliance can be renewed," said Thorin, the words bitter in his mouth. The only pleasure he derived from them was the Elf King's shocked look as he withdrew and stood erect. Thranduil's eyebrows fell in suspicion and he retreated to the comfort of his throne, his gaze weary upon Thorin.

"And why, pray tell, would you have an interest in that? What could you hope to gain from an alliance with me when your home is far to the West?"

"We do indeed intend to retake the mountain, before the end of this year in fact, and I want my people to be secure and in good standing with their neighbors."

"What do you mean secure?" asked Thranduil scornfully. "If you should succeed in reclaiming your home, which is doutable, who do you imagine you would need security from? Displeased with our people's past relations as I am, you cannot imagine I would start a war with you over it."

"It is not your hosts I fear," said Thorin, letting his arms fall to his side. "The hordes I fear are the ones amassed in the Misty Mountains, the army of Azog and the Goblin King combined. We have reason to believe that they are preparing to attack not only Erebor, but the men of Lake Town and even you, if afforded the chance." Thranduil watched him for many long moments, a small frown creasing his features.

"Tell me, why should I believe your intentions are true, or the validity of your claim of amassing armies to the West? Have you any proof you can provide?"

"Little but our own word unless you would ask Beorn. Three of our party along with him saw the orc armies marching across the land between Dol Guldur and the Misty Mountains. Beorn was the one who overheard one of the orc and goblin captain's discussing their plans to attack the people east of your of your Woodland realm."

"And the rest of your claims, persuade me they are true," said Thranduil, two long fingers pressed to his temple.

"Once again we have little in the way of proof without the word of Gandalf or Lord Elrond." Thranduil examined him with a face as smooth as polished marble.

"Tell me Thorin son of Thrain, do you wish an alliance with me in order to have my aid in ridding the dragon from Erebor?"

"No," said Thorin without hesitation. "He is our enemy to deal with. I will not accept your help in this matter. It is a task for dwarves alone, for it is our home and treasure we seek to reclaim."

"Not all your treasure I think," said the elf king, a smirk sliding onto his face once again. "For many years after your people fled, Dale and its inhabitants were pillaged. I would wager a large portion of that city's gold lies in your mountain beneath the dragon's feet. If you should reclaim your home what would you do with that small fortune?"

"I would restore it to the heir of the Lord of Dale," said Thorin, thinking of Bard the Bowman of Laketown.

"That is impossible," said Thranduil. "The heir of Lord Girion vanished some 80 years ago. Even my sources have been unable to trace any sign of them." Thorin's mind raced as he contemplated the ramifications of the Elf King's claim. If there had not been an heir to Dale in almost three generations what did that say about Bard? Was this to be yet another inconsistency in the book? Would they still manage to defeat the dragon? Surely they could now they knew his weakness. He needed to discuss these changes with Sara. Sara! What had become of her? He needed to end this and get Dwalin and Bilbo seen to.

"What then will you do with this treasure I wonder?" said Thranduil, bringing him out of his reverie. He looked up at the Elf King.

"I am unsure," he said honestly. "But that is not the matter I think you're truly wish to discuss."

"Indeed not," agreed Thranduil. "If your claim should prove truthful, and there is indeed trouble from the West, I would not be wholly opposed to a discussion in regards to a renewal of our old alliance. However, there is something that would have to be satisfactorily settled before that."

"You speak of the gems of Lasgalen no doubt," said Thorin, feeling a small twinge of pleasure knowing he had something the Elf King desired.

"I do indeed," nodded Thranduil, his face growing serious. "Just as you value the Arkenstone, I value those gems and the necklace crafted from them. Unless that matter can be resolved, I fear we have nothing else to say on the subject."

"Father," called a familiar voice. Thorin turned to see Prince Legolas climbing up another flight of steps to the left. He paused on the top step and Thranduil nodded him forward.

"What news?"

"Ms. Miller has awakened." Thorin had eyes and ears for Legolas only, waiting for what he would say next. As if sensing his attention Legolas turned to face him.

"Is Sara well?" asked Thorin, unable to contain the question further.

"I kept my word to you," said Legols. "While not yet whole, she will make a full recovery in time."

"Then I thank you." Thorin inclined his head minimally as did Legolas in response. "King Thranduil," he said, looking back to the king. Dark eyebrows rose once again. "While it is my desire to try and resolve our past differences, there are those in my party who are in need of immediate medical attention. Also I am afraid that both my nephews and your Captain of the Guard are still missing."

"Indeed those are rather pressing concerns," agreed Thranduil. "It will also be necessary for me to obtain proof of your assertions. It seems to me that the surest and quickest way to do so is to reopen communications with Lord Elrond. He should be able to clarify the situation. But it may take a few days."

"And until then?" asked Thorin warily. Thranduil gave a dismissive smile and rose to leave.

"Until then you will remain here."

"As prisoners? Or guests?" The Elf King stopped but did not turn around.

"Both."