𝙎𝘼𝙋𝙃𝙄𝙍𝙀 𝙒𝙄𝙉𝙂𝙎, the hobbit

03

As the sun began to rise over the Sapphire Wood, its gentle rays filtering through the shimmering leaves, an atmosphere of both warmth and melancholy settled over the company. It had been several sunrises since they first arrived, and in that time, bonds were forged through shared trials and laughter. Saphira, the great blue dragon, had come to cherish their presence, her heart swelling at the camaraderie that had blossomed between her and the dwarves.

Together, they had harvested provisions for the long winter ahead, gathering nuts, berries, and herbs in the golden light of the autumn days. The dwarves, with their diligent hands, had also pitched in to help Saphira and her dragon kin build the hatchery—a cozy, sheltered enclave nestled in the heart of the wood. They worked tirelessly, crafting a sanctuary where new dragons could someday hatch and take flight, even if the future of dragonkind remained uncertain.

During these days, a remarkable change had taken root in Thorin Oakenshield, the proud dwarf prince. He had grown closer to Saphira, whose vibrant spirit and wisdom had begun to soften the edges of his hardened heart. Their conversations held a depth that transcended their different worlds, and in quiet moments, he found solace in her presence. Saphira had reminded him, even amidst the burdens of his quest, of the importance of companionship and trust.

Yet, as the warm glow of dawn painted the sky in hues of orange and pink, Saphira felt an ache in her heart, knowing that it was time for the company to move on. They had shared many stories, and laughter echoed in the very air, but the call of Rivendell beckoned, promising respite and knowledge that could aid them in their journey to reclaim Erebor.

Gathering the dwarves for one last breakfast among the ancient trees, Saphira took a deep breath, her voice steady yet imbued with emotion. "My friends," she began, her wings folding gracefully at her sides, "it is hard to believe how quickly time has passed. You have all given so much to me and my kin. Your strength in the harvest, your craftsmanship in the hatchery—these are gifts I will cherish always."

A mixture of proud smiles and melancholic glances spread through the group, and the dwarves returned her gaze with warmth.

"Your kindness has renewed our spirits, and I hope that you carry a piece of this place with you into your travels," she continued. "But understand that now, the time has come for you to begin the next leg of your journey to Rivendell."

Thorin stepped forward, eyes glinting with a mix of sorrow and gratitude. "Saphira, we could not have achieved what we did without your guidance. You've shown us the power of unity and friendship, lessons beyond treasure and kingdoms."

Saphira inclined her head, her heart swelling with appreciation. "And you have reminded me of the strength of the heart, Thorin. It has been an honor to share this time with you."

As they feasted on the last of the fruits and breads gathered from the woods, laughter mingled with stories of daring deeds and mischief they'd shared over the past weeks. Though the dwarves tried to mask their sadness, the weight of departure hung in the air like morning mist.

Finally, as the sunrise reached its zenith, signaling the time to leave, Saphira stood tall. "Together, let us gather our belongings, and I shall guide you to the borders of the Sapphire Wood. From there, the path to Rivendell is yours to tread."

One by one, the dwarves rose, and Thorin took Saphira's foreleg, giving it a firm squeeze. "Thank you, dear friend. We will return, and when we do, may there be more dragons soaring through these skies."

With one last shared smile, the company set forth, their steps echoing with purpose. As they walked side by side, the sun casting a golden glow around them, Saphira felt the bond they had formed would endure, no matter how far apart they might travel.

"I shall watch over you," she called out as they approached the edge of the wood. "And wherever your path leads, remember—you are never truly alone."

With that promise lingering in the air, the company stepped beyond the confines of the Sapphire Wood, hearts warmed by their shared journey and the friendships that would carry across the miles. Saphira, ever vigilant, spread her great wings and took to the sky, a blue streak against the backdrop of dawn, assuring them with her presence that they would always find their way back to each other.

A heavy cloud hung over the Sapphire Woods, where Saphira, the brilliant dragon of deep blue, tread carefully among the ancient trees, their branches stretching high towards the sky. The forest, whose wisdom was older than most, whispered as if its secrets were shared only in the embrace of silence. Longing for the warmth of companionship, Saphira felt a gnawing solitude; she knew that they had departed without her, and it was as if a part of her very soul had been left behind amid shadows and echoes.

As she pushed aside her worries for a moment, her attention was drawn to something unexpected—a small bird, clad in a cloak of white feathers, flew towards her in haste as if bearing tidings from the distant horizon. It soared with a grace that made even the most majestic stars pale in brightness. "Your Highness," it chirped, landing lightly upon the shimmering horn that adorned the dragon's head, just as Saphira came to a halt to listen.

"Yes, yes, what is it, Charlie?" she asked, her voice flowing like a gentle stream, filled with a soft yet authoritative tone.

The bird, no more than a little herald with wings of light, hovered before the magnificent creature that was Saphira. "The Company is in danger. They need you," it informed, its urgency carrying the weight of its message.

Saphira sighed deeply, a sound that rumbled like distant thunder. "I am on my way. Tell Snowfang to keep Oreo in check," she commanded, fully aware of the sharp lines of conflict often drawn in the presence of the Company. "And inform them that none may sit upon my throne," she growled, a shimmering glint of regal authority in her eyes.

The bird nodded, as if bearing the full weight of her words, before it took flight with a haste that only a messenger could maintain. Saphira, with a great heart and courageous wings, gathered her thoughts. She surged forward in a swift motion, stretching her feathered wings as if to embrace the entire sky, and took to the endless expanse, heading for Danogurs, where the dwarves, in their sorrow and bravery, awaited their queen.