The Merging of Destinies (Legolas Romance) *New Version, Same Author*

17: Elves, a thief in the night and painful consequences

Everyone worked through the night until the pale light of dawn could be seen and Val could practically see the dwarves falling asleep where they stood. Bless them.

The she elf was sat with Bilbo on some discarded stones and watched as everyone slowly tidied things away.

'Nice going lads, nice work. Come on!' Ordered Thorin, who swept passed them.

One by one they made their way up the stone steps and peered out over the landscape before them.

Gold was what Val noticed straight away and realised that the Woodland Realm was stationed throughout the ruined city of Dale.

This is just great, Val thought sarcastically. Though she wondered why Thranduil was here. Actually, she knew but could hardly believe it.

Suddenly, the sound of horse's hooves could be heard clattering along the road. Bard appeared and Val let out a gasp of relief.

He's alive!

'Hail Thorin, son of Thrain. We are glad to find you alive beyond hope.' Said Bard.

'Bard! You're alive!' Exclaimed Val, unable to hold back the joy she felt.

The bowman searched for her and smiled when he found her, 'I'm glad to see you are as well.'

The two shared another smile before Thorin spoke up, 'Why do you come to gates of the King under the Mountain armed for war?'

Val held back the scoff that was threatening to escape her.

Bard looked back to the dwarf, 'Why does the King under the Mountain fence himself in like a robber in his hole?'

Val thought it was a very valid question.

'Perhaps it is because I'm expecting to be robbed.'

'You're not going to be robbed Thorin.' Said Val, who had enough of the dwarf acting like a raving lunatic.

All the dwarves turned and stared at her, shocked that she spoke against Thorin and in turn, spoke. She rarely did it.

'This does not concern you, elf.' Spat Thorin.

Val was tempted to throw Thorin over the barricade and watch him being ripped apart on the stones below.

Kili grabbed Val's arm and shook his head.

The she elf turned back to look at Dale and leant on the stone wall.

'My Lord, we have not come to rob you, but to seek fair settlement. Will you not speak with me?' Asked Bard.

Thorin inclined his head and made his way down to meet with Bard.

Val wanted desperately to go down but Kili held her back, 'Maybe it's best if they talk alone.'

She looked down at Kili and knew that he was right. That didn't stop her from speaking though, 'Is Thorin in the right mind to discuss matters like this?'

Kili looked away and said nothing. He knew Val was right.

However, one by one the dwarves made their way down and Val was quick to follow.

'Why should I honor such terms?'

'Because you gave us your word.' Remined Bard. 'Does that mean nothing?'

Val was impressed at how well Bard was keeping council.

Definitely a natural, thought Val but then she got an idea. I wonder...

Thorin turned back to the Company and looked deep in thought.

'Begone! Ere our arrows fly!' Shouted Thorin suddenly.