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A misty fog stretched across the waters. The air was moist and chilly, giving me a shiver down my spine whenever the wind blew. I propped myself up onto the edge of the barge and leaned over the ledge, letting my gaze fall deep into the dark, icy waters. I pulled my cloak tighter around me as I breathed in the cold air. I exhaled, watching a small cloud of breath exit my mouth. I turned myself and slid my way back down to sit. I looked to Kili, who sat next to me. His face was pale but I figured it wasn't just the effect of the change of weather. He almost looked lifeless.
I took his cold hands. "How are you doing?"
He slowly turned his head to look at me. His eyes were tired and it seemed that simple movements drained his energy. "Just a little worn, that's all," he coughed as his body trembled.
"You need to rest, Kili."
He lowered his head onto my shoulder. "I'll try," he whispered.
My eyes followed the movements of the boat. Shadows lurked next to us. A giant boulder emerged from the thick layer of fog.
"Look out!" Bofur exclaimed.
Bard effortlessly maneuvered past the boulder.
Thorin stomped his way to Bard. "Are you trying to kill us?!"
"Quiet Master Dwarf," Bard griped. "I was born and raised on these waters, if I wanted to kill you, I would not do it here..."
Dwalin gave Bard a cold look then turned to the rest of the company. "Oh, I've had enough of this lippy lake-man. I say we throw him over the side and be done with him."
"We don't have to like him, we simply have to pay him," Balin pointed out. "Now, c'mon lads, turn in your pockets." I tossed in my fair share without protest as the rest muttered while pulling out their coins. Balin began to count the coins. "Uh, there seems to be a problem, we are 10 coins short.
Thorin turned to Gloin. "C'mon, give it up, Gloin."
Gloin crossed his arms. "Don't look to me. I have been bled dry by this venture! What have I seen for my investment? Naught but misery and grief and –." Gloin stopped mid sentence, watching the Lonely Mountain arise from the clouds and mist. His eyes widened, "Bless my beard. Here take it. Take it all." He shoved more than enough coins to Balin. Balin put all the money in a small cloth pouch.
I cleared my throat and nodded behind me, warning the company that Bard was approaching us.
Bard reached his hand out. "The money, quick!"
Thorin placed his arm out in front of Balin, defending the money. "We will pay you when we get our provisions, but not before."
Bard looked up ahead with a frustrated look on his face. He turned his glance back down to us. His jaw stiffened. "If you value your freedom, you'll do as I say. There are guards ahead."
