Journey to Erebor

A Tide-turn

It was the long-awaited day, the cornation of Thorin but we still had to wait until mid day. I ran out to meet Pundin next door. He was getting ready and wore a dark,velvet cloak.It was glimmering in the morning light.He held a new sword which looked old but semed strong and sharp.His cobalt black,tousled hair flowed down. He looked the same, grim and steely but surprisingly showed signs of happiness. The lines of worry that he bore all through the journey faded.

We went along with Fili and reached the rampart outside. We were amazed when we saw the myriad of defenses set up to thwart enemies. Everything from Caltrops to boiling lead to sweep enemies off their feet. It was an unbreachable fortress.We talked about many things.We discussed about all the happiness we had on our way and had a good laugh. The climate was cool and windy. The wanton wind brushed its wetness on our faces.Just then a raven came flying and dropped a scroll in Pundin's hand.

We were anxious but as Pundin read each line written on the parchment his face blanched and grew long. He gently refused to show us the letter and stowed it inside his cloak.

Fili and I were disturbed but Fili led us back inside. Pundin drifted back to the way he was but only far more worse. He never looked us in the eyes, he denied his breakfast and lunch. We were then exploring the inner chambers along with Fili. Finally we reached the most interesting part of Erebor, the treasury. It was stupendous! Just then Fili was summoned by Thorin for preparations so he had to leave.

Pundin and I were alone in the treasury. We began to examine the weaponry and the vast amounts of varied coins present in the humongous heap.

I started to ask Pundin about the letter but right then a guard caught us. I could not believe it, I explained him about our situation and told him of what would become of him if Fili or Thorin knew this. But the guard took them as just empty boasts and manacled us. I repeatedly tried persuading him that we were not intruding or stealing but he just simply refused. On the other hand Pundin just remained silent, he never offered any resistance which was extremely unusual considering his prowess as a warrior.

So we were locked in the very dungeons of Erebor, the last place I ever thought I would be in! We would be missing the Cornation and a good many other things. I just sat down a closed my eyes and so did Pundin...