Too Far Gone

Chapter 15

Few days passed.

I resumed work every morning with Bain. Time passed slowly, day by day.

I visited the great stone a time or two. And tried to drown my blank thoughts in my work.

Bain excused the crew once again after a hard day of work. I dropped my hammer and took my hand off of the metal.

I strode past Bain, who placed a firm pat on the back of my shoulder.

Walking along the city with my sword at my side, for I always carried it, I scanned the stands. They were bustling with citizens all about.

The sun was beginning to head down in the west and the sky illuminated in it.

A minor pain clenched unto my veins. I stopped dead in my tracks through the busy city.

I shook the sudden surge off and kept walking through Bree, only to be stopped not a few seconds later by a tall, dark-haired man who's features were assertive and harsh. He had little facial hair and a stern look on his face. He looked as though he was preparing for battle.

"You." He said. "You, have been recommended to assist us in hunts 'round the city, to ensure the border was not breeched."

"I do believe you have encountered the wrong person, good sir." I began to pass him.

He turned. "Madeira, of Erebor, correct?"

I stopped, but did not turn back.

"This is correct."

"Well, then I've not mistaken you." He said, walking slowly towards my turned back. "We require your aid as one of our men has stepped out, ill."

I shot around. "What is it that you need." I inquired, in a monotonous fashion.

"We leave now, get what you need and come to the stables."

I nodded and headed for Bain's to suit into my armor.

~

((General: Thorin))

His arrival upon the Blue Mountains was not any short of warm and joyous.

The mountains sat contently with the sun behind it, slowly setting.

Thorin stepped into sight of a crowd from Erebor as they paced around the city outside the mountains.

Balin and Dwalin caught sight of him and immediately walked upon him.

Thorin's expression was monotonous as he strode towards the Blue Mountains.

"Laddie!" Balin rejoiced. "T'is great to have you back all in one piece."

They exchanged Dwarf-style hugs and shaking of the hands.

"Good to see you, as well, my kin."

Balin maneuvered his head in an attempt to see behind Thorin. Thorin remained staring ahead.

"Thorin, where on earth is Madeira?"

"That is not my concern anymore."

"Is sh-" Baling cut out.

"No." Thorin sternly stated.

"Do you not-"

"No, Balin. She is too far gone." He asserted, passing by the greeting Dwarves.

~

((Madeira))

We set out not a few minutes later, I had geared up with greaves, shoulder armor and a corset.