Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Thorin Oakenshield wheezed as he stared at the face of his dear hobbit. It was better this way, he told himself. How could he live knowing he had almost killed his Amrâlimê, the light of his life? It would be dishonorable. If he had a beard left, he would cut it for his actions.
“Don’t leave me, Thorin.” Bilbo sobbed and he tried to muster up a smile for him but it was too late. He took his last breath and let darkness take him.
He woke up screaming for his ‘Ibin. He sat up and vomited, hanging his head off the side of his bed. He couldn’t grasp where he was. It looked like his old room, the one in the Lonely Mountains. Where were his ancestors? His Grandfather? His Mother? They should be greeting him, welcoming him into Aulë’s Halls.
“Brother! Are you alright?” His door was flung open to reveal Frerin. He stared at him and rubbed his eyes. Frerin looked so young! He couldn’t be more than fifteen, his beard barely whiskers.
“Frerin, why do you look like that? Where is our Maker?” Frerin gave him a worried look before whispering something to someone out in the hall.
“Nadad, are you okay? I think you must have had a dream. Are you ill?” He laid his hand on his forehead and Thorin marveled at how real it felt. He hadn’t seen his baby brother in over one hundred years and he could feel tears falling down his face.
“Mahal, I’m so happy to see you!” He swept him into a hug and ignored his surprised look.
“Boys, what’s wrong?” His mother came barreling in, an axe in each hand. She took everything in before setting them down.
“‘Amdel! Thorin is sick! He’s been acting weird and now he’s asking where our Maker is!” His mother sent Frerin away and called a servant in to clean up his mess.
“What’s wrong, my son?” He couldn’t help his bitter laugh.
“I am dead and I did such a terrible job, even Aulë will not greet me.” It was odd that the Maker’s halls looked like Erebor. He had no right to the mountain and it left a bad taste in his mouth that he would rest here until the end of the world. Perhaps this was his punishment? A well deserved one, if that was the case.
“Thorin, what are you talking about? Did you spar with Dwalin before bed? You know that gives you night terrors!” He furrowed his eyebrows. He stopped fighting with Dwalin at night after the Desolation. He had his people to look after and mouths to feed, there was no time to duel with him.
He looked closer at his mother and saw her marriage beads. She had sold them on his thirtieth birthday to buy him new boots. He hadn’t seen them in years. He frantically looked around his room and scrambled out of his bed. Everything was the same as he remembered. His old gem kit lay on his desk and the first bracelet he had forged himself lay proudly on his shelf. Ignoring his mother’s calls, he left his room and looked around. Guards were stationed outside his room and they bowed when he walked by. He walked even faster and found himself outside the throne room.
“Open the door, Thorin.” He chanted to himself. He slowly pushed the doors open and froze at the sight before him. The Arkenstone was mounted in the throne, exactly like it was before Smaug came. His grandfather had been so proud when they found it. The Heart of the Mountain, he called it.
“My Prince?” Dwalin looked like he had just woken up, his hair braided tightly against his head. He couldn’t help his panicked laughter at the sight of his old friend. Dwalin hadn’t had so much hair since they were pebbles!
“My Prince?” He repeated and Thorin frowned. His people never addressed him by his title, he wouldn’t allow it. He was a King without a crown. What was the use of formalities when his people were starving? How would a title help a sickly child? It wouldn’t and he saw no use for such frivolous behavior.
“Dwalin, what year is it?” He felt a sinking in his stomach as his friend answered.
“It’s the year 2066, my Prince.” He felt his eyes roll into the back of his head and he fainted.

~~~~~~

Thorin hadn’t left his room in a week. He had gone back somehow. He was in his twentieth year. Smaug had not yet taken his home. His people were not yet homeless, living off the scraps of others. His Khîê hadn’t even been born yet. His heart stuttered at the thought of Bilbo. He was such a fool. How could he atone for his sins when his beloved wouldn’t even remember him? Perhaps it would be better to not seek him out. He had done nothing to earn his One’s love. His door was thrown open, pulling him out of his depressing thoughts.
“Nadad! Please come out! Everyone is worried.” His sister cried out as she stormed into his room. He had forgotten how loud she used to be. She would crack the floors with her stomps. She had learned to be quiet when they lived in the wilderness. One wrong move and they would be forsaken. Dís was only ten years old now, her braids swinging around her face. She had gone through a phase where she would only wear two braids and she would put dozens of claps and beads twined around them.
“Nadad, what did you do to your face?” Her eyes were glued to his chin, where there used to be some sparse hair growing. He had taken a razor and shaved them off. He would not grow a beard. Not until he could forgive himself for all of his many mistakes.
“Don’t worry, pebble. Now come here. Nadad wants a hug.” She gave him an odd look but let him scoop her up. He knew he had been rather mean around this age before, convinced he was an adult. How wrong he was, Smaug had shown him that.
“Everyone is trying to pretend they aren’t afraid. They whisper that you're starting to act like grandfather.” She said, her face buried in his hair.
“Hmmm I see. If I start hoarding jewels, I give you permission to hit me over the head, okay? Someone has to make me see reason.” He joked and was rewarded with her peals of laughter. Older Dís had lost this carefree attitude and he was suddenly filled with determination. He would not make the same mistakes twice. His people would be safe and he would keep his family together.
“Now pebble, I need help braiding my hair. Would you help this poor dwarf?” She giggled and replied.
“Of course nadad! I’ve learned two new braiding techniques from father!” As his sister yanked a comb through his hair, he began to plan out a strategy that would help him keep his home.

~~~~~~

He sat at the council meeting and tried to resist banging his head against the marble table. Mahal, they all had rocks in their heads! They had been discussing the same topic for two hours. Durin’s day was coming up and the merchants guild wanted a bigger budget.
“But why do they need more gold? Did they not have the same budget last year?” Farin demanded, slamming his fist on the table. The other Lords muttered their agreement. Thorin couldn’t help his disdain of the other dwarf. He had quickly abandoned them after Smaug came and ran to the Stonefoot clan in the east.
“Prince Thorin, do you have any comments to make?” Fundin asked, father to Dwalin and Balin. Balin gave him a warning look that he ignored.
“Give them the gold. We only celebrate Durin one day a year, should it not be as grand as possible? We will also have clans from all over traveling to the Lonely Mountain. We can’t look like we can’t afford to celebrate, can we?” The table erupted, dwarves shouting over each other. His father slammed his axe on the table, cracking it in half.
“We will raise the budget. Well done, Thorin.” His father praised him.
“Thank you father. May I leave? I have another meeting.” Before he would have straightened with pride but he honestly couldn’t care about his father’s approval. He had way too much going on. He had set up a meeting after this and he had to keep his head. His father gave him a worried look but waved him off. Dwalin and Balin followed him out.
“My Prince, you’ve been acting odd.” Balin said delicately, watching his reaction. He snorted at the older dwarf’s tactic.
“It’s fine, Balin. Things are going to change and I have to be prepared. Also, I told you both to call me Thorin. Don’t make me repeat myself.” He hated threatening his kin but he wanted them to feel comfortable around him. He wanted his friends back. It was selfish of him but they had been able to tell his mood by a single glance. They had faced victories and bitter losses together. They were truly baraf, his family.
“Yes, Prince Thorin.” Dwalin said awkwardly and he rolled his eyes. They would get there.
“Nadad! Where are you going?” Frerin ran up to them, crumbs on his face. He probably just got back from the kitchens. The cook always gave his brother sweets when he stopped by.
“I have a meeting. Would you like to come with?” Frerin’s face lit up and he grabbed his hand.
“Yes! I’m so excited.” His siblings had never really gone to meetings before because they were not the Heir. He had been going to them with his father since he was dwarfling. He saw the Lin brothers share a look. He knew they would eventually break and ask him about his changes. Well they were about to get an even bigger surprise.
“King Thranduil, thank you for agreeing to meet with me.” The cold elf king glanced at him before saying “I was surprised by your letter. Shall we sit?”
“Nadad, what’s he doing here?” Frerin whispered loudly, everyone hearing him.
“I need to speak with him. I need you to be polite, can you do that for me?” Frerin glanced at the blonde elf and flushed.
“Yes, elder.” It seemed he had found where Kíli got his love of elves from. There was no use beating around the bush, a saying Bilbo had quoted often.
“A dragon will come in four years.” Everyone stared at him, their confusion plain to see.
“And how do you know that, Prince Thorin?” The elf king had his elbow propped up on the table, looking like he didn’t have a care in the world.
“I had a dream. The Desolation it will cause will affect everything in the West. Dale will burn and Greenwood will be encased in the Shadow.” Thranduil narrowed his eyes at him.
“Have you told your King about you dream?” His mocking tone was plain to hear and the other dwarfs bristled.
“I will be honest with you, Thranduil. My grandfather is sick. He lives in our treasury, counting gold day and night.” He held up his hand to stop Balin from interrupting him.
“Perhaps if grandmother was alive, she would be able to pull him out of it” an image of Bilbo dangling from the wall had him grimacing in pain “but probably not. I need to know that you will stand by Durin’s folk.” The elf king considered him carefully.
“I will not fight a dragon.” He stated. Before Thorin would have called him a coward, an oath breaker but he had seen what lay underneath Thranduil’s glamour. Dragon fire wounds never healed and he was a testament to that.
“I would not ask you too. The Dragon will come to the mountain. All I ask is that you provide shelter for my people if it comes down to it.” He learned from Bard that the elf king had provided food for the humans and helped them get on their feet. He liked to assume they would have done it for the dwarfs if they had asked, instead of his grandfather demanding Thranduil sacrifice his people to get their home back.
“Why should I help you, Prince Thorin? Your King has shown me nothing but disdain these last couple of years.” He winced at the elf’s tone. He was right, his grandfather had shown everyone his dislike as his sickness grew worse.
“I know it means nothing but I would apologize for his behavior. Grandfather is sick, he doesn’t like anyone but his gold.” Frerin held his hand under the table and he hated saying such cruel words in front of his brother but they had to be said.
“I also have a gift. Even if you say no, it will still be yours.” Bilbo had talked at great lengths about hobbit culture with him. It was fascinating, the differences between their people. Gift giving was especially important to hobbits. The size and worth of your gift could either start or end a family feud. He pulled the necklace from his pocket and set it on the table. The white gems of Lasgalen shone with an inner light.
“My Prince!” Balin gasped out loud, his shock mirrored by the others.
“I hope this will heal some of the pain caused by my people. Please take time to consider my words and let me know your answer.” Thranduil slowly picked up the necklace and held it gently in his hands.
“Did you know my wife always wore this necklace? She would even wear it under her armor. She said it would keep her safe.” An ancient grief shone in his eyes as he continued “it didn't, of course but perhaps it will remind me of happier times.” He stood up and his guard did the same.
“I will not fight the dragon, if one were to come but I will help with the aftermath.” He left and Thorin let out a sigh of relief.
“Nadad, why didn’t you tell us of your dream?” Frerin said, his eyes filled with fear. He gently knocked their foreheads together and said “do no fear, pebble. I will not let anything happen to us or our people.”

Chapter Text

Thorin spent the next four years preparing as his grandfather wasted away in the treasury. His people would whisper about his strength in the face of such madness and he ignored them. He did not deserve their praise, not yet.
“My son, come join us for dinner.” His mother called out as she passed his office. He put away the ledger he had for their food supplies. He had been storing away gold and food in secret foothills along the mountain. If Smaug succeeded in taking his home from him a second time, at least they would be a bit more prepared for it.
“Nadad! Is that grey in your hair already?” Dís snickered from beside him. He reached over and flicked her forehead.
“If you are jealous of my flowing locks, just say so sister.” Frerin snorted and a pea came out his nose. He shared a look with Dís and they both burst into laughter as his parents looked on fondly.
“Is grandfather going to join us?” Dís asked and he saw the way his mothers mouth tightened.
“No, he is busy.” His father replied and Thorin glared at him.
“What father means is grandfather is sick. If you ever find yourself alone with him, promise me you will come find me. Both of you.”
“Thorin!” His father reprimanded him and he ignored him.
“Promise me.” He repeated himself and his siblings swore. His grandfather was getting more erratic, convinced everyone was out to get him. He would not allow the crazy old dwarf to hurt his siblings. They finished their dinner and his father asked him to stay behind.
“Thorin, you should not be saying such things about the King.” He clapped his hands together and replied.
“It is the truth, father. You cannot have missed the signs. Grandfather is dangerous and I will not allow him to hurt us.”
“He is your King.” His father said softly. Thorin straightened his shoulders and replied.
“For now.” His father looked horrified at his words.
“That’s blasphemy, Thorin! You could have your tongue cut out for such words.”
“I will not allow him to hurt us or our people.” He said firmly and left. He loved his parents and his grandfather but it had been many years since he had last seen them and he could admit in the privacy of his own mind that his people had been better off without the two dwarfs. His grandfather was mad, throwing their people away like rocks and his father was mad, grief twisting his mind in a dangerous way. He would do what he always did in situations like this. He would carry on.

~~~~~~

It was finally the day Smaug came. Thorin had sent all of the women and children to Greenwood, stating that the elves needed help with some smithing and it would be a good learning experience for the children. Both of his siblings had gone along with his mother. They didn’t know why he was so demanding but had understood the urgency in his tone. Thranduil had invited all of the people from Dale as well. Thorin could still remember Bilbo weeping over the burning of Laketown and would not forsake his neighbors again.
“You’ve been out here for a while, laddie.” Fundin said softly, he eyes scanning the area.
“I am simply waiting.” Smaug would come and he could only pray to Aulë that he was missing a scale in the same spot as before.
“This fell out of your journal. Should I start the courtship papers?” Fundin held up a drawing and Thorin felt his chest ache at the picture of Bilbo. He had decided he would not seek out his One, he had only brought pain and misery in his life but he could not stop drawing him or making him trinkets. The sketch Fundin held up was when they were at Beorn’s. Bilbo had made them all flower crowns and he looked stunning with the sun at his back.
“No.” He whispered, his voice cracking in pain.
“There will be no courtship. He does not know who I am and it will stay that way.”
“You are a Prince, I am sure he would not turn you away.” Funding’s voice was gentle as he clapped him on the shoulder.
“I do not deserve him.” Fundin opened his mouth to argue when Thorin spotted a dark shape in the distance.
“There you, worm.” He loaded the arrow he had forged out of mithril.
“Thorin, what are you doing?” Fundin shouted as the worm got closer. Thoring gave him a viscous smile and said “I am defending my home.” He let his arrow fly and prayed to his Maker that it would strike true. Smaug let out a roar and fell from the sky, his body landing between Dale and Erebor.
“By the Maker, you actually killed a dragon.” Fundin blinked before fainting from shock. Thorin watched the dragon for any signs of movement and saw none. He could not believe how easy it had been. All of their pain and suffering for nothing. He was suddenly furious with himself, if only he had been prepared the first time! He took some calming breaths and stared at his sketch of Bilbo.
“I miss you so much, Amrâlimê.”
An hour later, people were surrounding the mountain. His father had been trying to speak with his grandfather when the dragon came and had been surprised as everyone else by its body now rotting away on their stoop.
“Thorin, you idiot!” Frerin shouted as he jumped down from Thranduil’s elk and tackled him to the ground. His brother and the elf king had a weird friendship going on. He was pretty sure it consisted of Frerin following the elf around and Thranduil allowing it but it was none of his business.
“I am glad to see you unharmed, Prince Thorin.” Thranduil said, his son by his side. He suddenly got the image of Legolas calling Glóin’s son a goblin and snorted. Glóin had sworn a feud with every elf after that incident. He hadn’t shut up about it either. Thorin wouldn’t have been surprised if he had made poor Ori put it in his official report about their quest.
“The Prince killed the Dragon!” The people started shouting out “Dragonslayer!” and he flinched at the name. He would rather be Oakenshield but it was too late.

~~~~~~

He watched as they lay his grandfather in the stone, his body draped with finery. He had died in the treasury, the guards not finding his body until three days later when they did their annual check.
Thorin couldn’t help his relief and hated himself for it. He should be grieving and he could only feel solace at the fact that his grandfather would never be able to give the order to march to Khazad-dûm.
Thrór had been a good King once upon a time and Thorin mourned the dwarf his grandfather had been. His people sang as his grandfather was lowered to the crypts, the Arkenstone with him. The council had been furious but he would not budge and his father had supported his decision to bury the gem with his grandfather. He would rather smash the horrid thing to pieces but his people would probably revolt at such actions.
“Nadad! There’s a wizard here!” Dís cried out as she ran into his office. He jumped up, it could only be one person. Entering their sitting room, he found Tharkûn leaning against his staff.
“Gandalf!” He grinned at the surprised wizard.
“Prince Thorin, what a warm greeting for this old man.” He knew he had only met Tharkûn a handful of times but he couldn’t hide his excitement. They may have butted heads often but the Grey Wizard had been one of the few to help him get his home back. Sure, he had his own agenda but he was still part of his Company.
“You will always be welcome in our halls, Gandalf!” He could see Frerin mouthing Gandalf’s name and berated himself. He was an idiot! Only the hobbits called him by that name, Bilbo said it was a gift from the first Thain because they did not have a word for his name in hobbitish.
“Thank you, Dragonslayer.” Thorin no longer flinched at the title but he still did not like it.
As they dined later that night, he heard Gandalf mention hobbits.
“Oh! I’ve read a book on halflings. Don’t they have big feet?” Dís said loudly, her eyes curious. Thorin could not help cutting her off.
“Do not call them that, Dís. It is insulting, they are not half of anything. Talking about a hobbit's feet is like talking about braids, they are sacred.” His family and the wizard gave him curious looks.
“That is correct, Prince Thorin. I’m curious about how you knew such things? Hobbits do not welcome outsiders.” He opened and closed his mouth before blurting out, “Thranduil told me. I was curious and he was kind enough to educate me.” Gandalf didn’t seem convinced but let the topic drop. Gandalf stayed with them for a week, paying his respect to Thrór.
“I can’t imagine what would have happened if you hadn’t killed the dragon.” Gandalf commented and Thorin grimaced.
“The Desolation would have a lasting effect in the West.” Gandalf let the topic drop and wished him well.
“You always have a home with us, Tharkûn” the wizard just smiled at him and he watched as he wandered down the path towards Dale.
Years passed by and his family grew. Dís ended up finding her One in Narvi, a dwarf who worked in the lower mines. The council had been in an uproar over her decision but their father had ignored them.
“The Maker himself picked Narvi as her One and it would be an insult to ignore His choice.” They had been silent after that. Thorin would not let him die again. His beloved sister-sons would grow up with their father. Frerin had become the mediator between Erebor and Greenwood. He had grown to love the stars as much as he did stone. His brother was now older than he had been in his previous life and it warmed his heart. His parents were both still alive and his father was a fair king. His sister was pregnant with his nephew and he could not ask for anything more.

~~~~~~

He greeted Bifur as he entered the forge. He was still shocked every time he saw Bifur without an orc axe sticking out of forehead. The Urs were regulars at the forge. Bofur would stop by after working in the mines, talking with Narvi about the latest gossip. Bombur would bring Bifur treats he had made in the kitchens. Thorin had personally invited the Urs from the Blue Mountains. They had been raised there for generations and he was always touched that they had joined his Company in his first life, just because they could and wanted to help. Thorin started etching designs on the ear cuff he had made. He was a blacksmith by necessity but his true calling had been etching. He loved carving designs or words into metal. It helped calm his mind and settle his fears. He looked down at the ear cuff, words of devotion lovingly written in runes. He was suddenly transported back in time.
“Bilbo, you would look stunning with jewels hung in your ears.” Bilbo gave him a scandalous look and replied.
“Thorin! That would be social suicide! Hobbits do NOT purposely damage our ears. Our ears are very sensitive.” Thorin gave him a sly look and said “oh yes? Perhaps I should see for myself.”
He blinked the memory away and gently put the cuff with the hundreds of others he had crafted. If he ever met Bilbo again, he would give him a cuff everyday. He would never have to wear the same one twice.
“Irak’adad! Are you done?” Fíli yelled from outside his door. Kíli was holding onto his hand with his thumb in his mouth. His nephews were little rascals, running wild through the mountain. He had been rather hard on them before and he had regretted it everyday since. This life he would be gentle, not caring what the other clans thought. These boys were his pride and joy.
“Kíli, did you hear something? Did a tiny goblin get in the forge?” His youngest nephew climbed up his back onto his shoulders and buried his hand in his hair.
“Uncle! It’s me, Fíli! I am not a goblin!” He stomped his foot and Thorin knew he got it from his mother.
“Oh Fíli! There you are!” He pretended to see him for the first time and picked him up. He settled him on his hip and waved goodbye to Bifur. He strolled through the marketplace and waved at his people. They called out greetings and blessings to him.
“Uncle, look it’s Ori!” The young dwarf was looking at books and turned at the sound of his name. Ori was still just as shy as he had been before but his family hadn’t suffered as much. Dori’s tea shop was booming and Nori was still up to no good. Thorin had run into the stuffy dwarf a couple years ago and had made a big production of calling him cousin. He knew how much tradition meant to Dori and the shame he felt at his heritage. Just because his ancestor had refused to acknowledge the daughter he had out of wedlock did not mean Thorin would not fix his mistake. The whole mountain knew the Ri family was part of the Durin line.
“Hi Princes!” Ori gave an elaborate bow and Thorin muttered about Balin’s bad influence.
“Ori, you can call me Uncle and the two pebbles by their first names. We are family, after all.” Ori blushed and said.
“Master Balin said one must keep formalities, even between kin.” He was going to knock some sense into that old dwarfs head.
“Well I give you permission.” Ori gave him a sweet smile and replied.
“Okay Uncle!” He ruffled the boy's head and kept walking, listening to Fíli ramble on about the frog he had found earlier.

~~~~~~

“Thorin, I do not understand! Why are we sending warriors to the Blue Mountain?” His father just gave Fundin a pitying look. He had been trying to understand Thorin’s thoughts for two hours, to no avail.
“Because this winter is going to be horrible and our neighbors will need help!” He cried out, his hands curled into fists. Bilbo would be in his late tweens and the Fell Winter would steal both of his parents from him. Thorin would not allow himself to seek his One out but he wouldn’t allow him to experience that same pain twice.
“Okay Thorin, we’ll send warriors to the Blue Mountains for the winter. We can also see the condition of the old mountain and offer our support to the dwarves living there.” His shoulders relaxed and he gave his father a look full of thanks.
“That’s a good idea. I don’t want him to know I sent people, he’d probably think I’m crazy.” He muttered to himself, missing the look his father and Fundin shared.
“Now let’s go pick our best dwarves to go!”
Dwalin was put in charge of the quest and practically oozed pride, his chest puffed out.
“I am happy for you, my friend. You better get home safe or I will drag you from the Halls of our forefathers myself.” Dwalin barked out a laugh.
“Yes, Thorin.” He gently bumped their heads together, ignoring the whispering of those watching. He knew some dwarfs thought he was together with Dwalin but that was not the case. He would not take anyone but his One. He was disgusted by the advances of others and had actually gotten sick on one special occasion. Frerin hadn’t let him live it down.
“Mister Dwalin! This is for you!” Fíli proudly handed him a crudely forged knife, the handle barely staying on.
“Thank you, young Prince. I will treasure it.” It was always an honor to receive something forged by a dwarfling. Dwarves treasured their children. He had witnessed a Man hitting his son once and had been horrified. How could they harm the greatest blessing they could get? He kept a closer watch on the pebbles under his care, making sure nothing like that would ever happen to them. They waved the group off and Thorin could breath a little easier.

Chapter Text

Bilbo Baggins had lived an eventful life. He was fully prepared to reach Yavanna’s gardens and relax after messing everything up. He would never forgive himself for making his nephew bear his burden and he was prepared to be punished for his stupid actions. He let the lull of the ship calm his nerves and took his last breath. It was a shame he would never see the Undying Lands.
Twenty six year old Bilbo Baggins tripped and slammed his head on a rock. As he lay there bleeding, memories flooded his mind. Of riddling a dragon and riding barrels through the Elven King’s realm. Of friends that became family and a love that carved its way into his heart.
“The bleeding Ring!” He screeched and sat up. Blood ran down his face and he ignored it. He had to get the Ring and destroy it! He would not allow his darling nephew to bear the burden. He did some quick math and realized Fell Winter would be this year. He weighed his options and made his choice. He loved his parents with his whole being but he would split Arda in half for his nephew. He would take the Ring to Mordor. Running home, he ran into Lobelia. She had not yet married Otto and he was thrown by how young she looked.
“Bilbo! Have you come to propose?” She asked, her eyes narrowed into slits. He knew it was her ma who was pushing her into his family and felt a pang of pity for the girl. She hadn’t always been a silverware stealing hag.
“I’m sorry, Lobelia. I’m actually in love with a dwarf.” Her mouth fell open and she looked around quickly.
“Bilbo, you can’t say that. You know proper hobbits don’t like outsiders.”
“Proper hobbits can stuff it. I don’t care about all that nonsense.” She looked floored. He understood the feeling. Before the dwarves, he could not imagine sleeping outside or eating only three meals.
“I like your attitude, Bilbo! It seems you’ve found your spine. Why are you bleeding?” He forgot how much he had liked her in their youth. Before the Sackville-Baggins name had snuffed out her spirit.
“I hit my head on a rock. I have to get going, I’m going on an adventure.” He left her sputtering on the road and raced home.
“Bilbo! What happened, son?” His pa quickly pressed his handkerchief against his forehead and Bilbo let himself soak up the attention. His pa was a soft, gentle hobbit and he had resented him in his tween years. He wanted to run wild and find elves, not study numbers. When he was older, he understood the spine of steel his pa had for dealing with idiots all day.
“I tripped, pa. I need to speak to you and ma.” His pa led him to the sunroom where his ma was. His last memory of Belladonna Baggins had been her wasting away from a broken heart. Outsiders didn’t realize how much hobbits loved. Like dwarves, they would only love once. Losing that love would prove fatal to them. The only reason Bilbo had kept living was the Ring’s influence.
“I know I’m going to sound crazy but I need you both to promise you will stay with Old Took for the winter.” They had been going to the Great Smial when his pa had been torn to shreds by a warg. If they started there, they would survive the hard winter to come.
“Bilbo darling, it’s still summer. Why are you so worried about winter?”
“It doesn't matter! Please promise me.” They shared a confused look but agreed. He let his shoulders relax and spent the rest of the night cuddled up with his parents. He could tell they were thrown by his change of attitude but didn’t say anything. That night he stole his ma’s traveling pack and snuck out the door, leaving a note behind. Once he was on the main road, he took a moment to get his bearings. He had somehow remembered his past life and it was a mess. He would bear the One Ring and spare his nephew the pain of it. His nephew had been fifty one when he sailed for the Undying lands. He had been so young and his pain had been so great, he could not find peace in the Shire. Bilbo would walk on hot coals to make sure his nephew would grow old.
“There you are, Bilbo! I’ve been waiting an hour.” Lobelia’s voice broke through the silence. He jumped a foot in the air and held a hand to his racing chest.
“Shit shit shit, what are you doing here?” She had a sack thrown over her shoulder and gave him a look.
“I’m coming with you. Wherever you’re going.” She added and he gasped at her.
“No, you are not!” He would barely be able to take care of himself, let alone another hobbit!
“Yes, I am!” She planted her hands on her hips and he mirrored her stance.
“Lobelia! I can’t protect you or even guarantee you’re going to return.” She just flipped her braid over her shoulder.
“Bilbo, if I stay here, I will shrivel up and die. Sure, I’ll marry someone rich and pop out a handful of faunts but I will not be happy. My life will be over as soon as I change my name.” He closed his mouth and sighed.
“It’s going to be dangerous.” She grinned and said “Bring it on!”

~~~~~~

He found the troll cave and thankfully, it was empty. He unburied Sting and couldn’t help his nostalgia. He had been through a lot with this sword. He had a vision of Thorin teasing him over his tiny sword and he shook his head. He would not think of his beloved.
“Bilbo, did you find something?” She had found two small axes and hooked them on her belt. Lobelia had grown up on a farm and he had no doubt she would be deadly with the weapons.
“I’m naming it Sting.” She shrugged and they trudged on. He was hoping they could make it to Rivendell by nightfall.
“So what exactly are we doing?” He hadn’t told her the true meaning of their adventure.
“I know where the One Ring is and I’m taking it to Mordor.” She thought about it for a moment before saying “I heard it’s warm there. That’ll be kind of nice, almost like a vacation.” He laughed hard. Only Lobelia would think Mordor would be a vacation.
They walked for a couple more hours before he heard warg howls. He let out a curse and looked around frantically for the secret passageway. It wasn’t really a secret since half of Arda knew about it.
“There! Come one, Lobelia!” He pulled her down the entrance and let out a breath of relief.
“Thank Yavanna, I need a bath so bad.” She dramatically pinched her nose and agreed with him.
Walking up towards Rivendell, he was surprised when no one greeted them. It seemed like the whole courtyard was empty.
“Hello?” His voice echoed and they heard footsteps. A blonde elf appeared, his beauty stunning the two hobbits.
“Hello travelers. How may I help you?” Bilbo turned to Lobelia and saw her wipe the drool off her face. Hobbits loved beautiful things, be it flowers or people.
“We were hoping to rest for the night, if you’ll permit it?” The elf stared at him for a while before smiling. He shone like the sun, Bilbo was dazed as he followed him.
“May I know your names?” Lobelia straightened her clothes and said “my name is Lobelia and this is Bilbo. Pleased to meet you.”
“Well met! My name is Glorfindel.” Bilbo squinted at the elf. His name sounded familiar but he couldn’t quite place where he heard it before.
“Nice to me you, Mr. Glorfindel.” The elf seemed to be waiting for them to say something. He traded a look with Lobelia before commenting.
“We would love a bath, if you don’t mind.” The elf blinked and led them to one of the many bathrooms.
“Thank you!” They cried out and began shedding their clothes. The last few weeks had them closer than before and Bilbo wasn’t embarrassed to be naked in front of the other hobbit.
“Did you think-” Bilbo finished her sentence.
“That Mr. Glorfindel was kind of batty? Yes.” She giggled and said “I thought so! Maybe all of the skincare went to his head.” They both laughed and soaked in the tubs until they were pruney. Once they were dressed, they searched for the kitchens. Hobbits could find food faster than a dog could find a bone. It helped that Bilbo vaguely remembered the Valley’s layout. He had been old when he arrived and downright ancient when he left in his last life. As they sat down to eat, they chatted about the latest gossip they heard.
“-and then he said she kissed like a pig!” Bilbo had never laughed so hard in his life. Yavanna, he should have befriended her sooner.
“Hello guests! I’m sorry I didn’t receive you.” Elrond found them in the gardens, sharing a smoke. Mr. Glorfindel was with him and Bilbo did his best not to look at Lobelia, he didn’t want to laugh in the poor elf’s face. That would be rude. He could hear Thorin calling him a tree-shagger in his head and bit his lip.
“Thank you for the room. We will be on our way in the morning.” Elrond hummed and said “You’re heading back to the Shire so soon? You are welcome to stay longer!”
“We will be continuing forward, sir.” Lobelia said and Bilbo was grateful she didn’t mention the nature of their quest. He knew it was cruel of him but Elrond had failed to destroy the ring the first time with Isildur. Bilbo had made Lobelia promise to shove him in the lava of Mordor, if he seemed to be wavering. Elrond should have done the same with Isildur.
“Are you sure? The world is a dangerous place for gentle creatures.” Bilbo narrowed his eyes and saw Lobelia do the same.
“Gentle? Is it because we’re not as tall as you? I think this elf is calling us short, Bilbo!”
“I think you're right, Lobelia! The nerve of some people! Just because we’re an appropriate height. Can you imagine being so tall? All those awkward limbs.” Mr. Glorfindel gave a fake cough that sounded like a laugh.
“My apologies, if I offended you. I would just hate to see you get injured.” Elrond offered and Bilbo decided to let him off the hook. He had helped him in his last life.
“You’re forgiven. At least you didn’t call us Halflings.”

~~~~~~

“Bilbo, that elf is following us.” Lobelia said casually.
“I know. I think he’s purposely stomping his feet.” Hobbits had keen ears and light feet. It’s why Gandalf wanted him to begin with. They stopped at a rock and waited for their stalker to catch up.
Mr. Glorfindel froze when he saw them waiting for him.
“Hello. It seems we’re going in the same direction.”
“How interesting! We were just taking a break, if you would like to join us?” The elf sat down and they moved as one. Lobelia grabbed one arm and Bilbo got the other. They held him down and Bilbo questioned him.
“Why are you following us? We have something very important to do and you’re getting in the way!” The elf seemed amused by their reaction.
“Most people would be begging for my help but you two can’t wait to get rid of me.” This elf seemed to have enough pride for two dwarves!
“And why would we want your help?” Lobelia said rudely and Bilbo nodded in agreement.
“Because I slayed a Balrog?” Bilbo felt the shock show in his face.
“You slayed Durin’s Bane?” The elf gave him a curious look before replying.
“Only Dwarves call it that.”
“I don’t believe it! You look like a stiff breeze would knock you down.” Lobelia announced and Bilbo agreed with her. The elf looked like he missed too many second breakfasts.
“Whether you believe it or not, it is the truth. Now where are you two going?” Lobelia looked to him for guidance and he reluctantly let go of the elf’s arm. They spoke quickly in hobbitish before coming to an agreement.
“We are headed to Mordor.” The elf laughed before stopping abruptly when they didn’t join in.
“Why in the world would two young hobbits go to Mordor?” Bilbo kicked a rock before answering.
“To destroy a Ring.” Glorfindel seemed to shrink before he said “that Ring is lost.” His voice was sharp and his hands were clenched at his side.
“But it will be found. It wants to be found.” Bilbo gently replied. If he didn’t find it, someone would. Bilbo was determined to get rid of the damn thing as fast as he could.
“I see. I will join you.” Bilbo glared at the elf.
“No thank you. Three is a crowd.” He followed Lobelia and they marched forward.
One week later, they climbed the mountain. Bilbo was thankful the sun was shining. It had been absolutely terrifying to do it in the dark.
“Fin, you have not lived until you’ve been to a hobbit wedding! The last one had a whole pig!” Bilbo would have to bring the elf to the Shire, if they returned. His gardener Hamfast would faint if he saw a real elf. He was the one who had told Samwise stories of the fair folk.
“What would you be doing if you weren’t going on an adventure?” The elf asked and both hobbits were quiet for a moment.
“I would be studying with my pa to take over as Head of the Baggins family.” The Baggins family were gentle hobbits. Everyone wanted to be them or marry them, the perfect example of what a hobbit should be.
“I would be getting married to someone chosen by my ma.” Lobelia kicked a rock and seemed to scowl at the ground.
“And you, Fin?” Glorfindel paused and said “I would be helping Elrond with paperwork probably.”
“How boring! No wonder you were so eager to join us!” They laughed and continued their hike. Bilbo finally found the cave he had fallen through last time.
“This is the back door to the goblins cavern. We need to get in and I need to grab the Ring. I’m not sure how we can manage it without getting eaten.” He admitted. They thought about it before Lobelia gave a vicious grin.
“Bilbo, you remember Longbeard’s fireworks?”

Chapter Text

Bilbo snuck through Gollum’s cave and waited for the little beast to arrive. Fin and Lobelia were distracting the goblins by setting off fireworks. They had agreed to meet on the other side of the mountain. He felt relieved that Glorfindel went with Lobelia. She would keep him safe. He had seen her split a cow in half.
“What is it, precious?” A voice that haunted his dreams hissed out and Bilbo waited for the hobbit to appear. It had taken him hours of searching before he discovered Gollum’s identity. Sméagol was a horror story told to fauntlings about the power of greed. It was the reason they gave presents at their birthday instead of receiving them.
“Sméagol! I’ve come to play with you. Come out.” The former hobbit gave a shriek.
“We don’ts knows it! Who is you?” He was just as Bilbo remembered, except now he could see the hobbit he had been. His pointed ears and large feet gave it away, even though he was skin and bones.
“My name is Bilbo and I’ve come to steal your precious.” Gollum reacted the way he thought he would. He launched himself at him and they fell to the ground in a heap. They fought back and forth for what seemed like hours but was probably only minutes. He felt Gollum tear a chunk of his ear off and hissed in pain. He finally got the dagger out and slashed forward. He made contact and Gollum gave a howl.
“It burns us, yes it does!” Bilbo tightened his grip and kept stabbing. Gollum would not be coming out of this alive, not this time. He pushed the limp body off of him and heard a clink as something fell on the floor. The One Ring lay at his feet, begging him to pick it up. He grabbed a handkerchief out of his pocket and wrapped it around the foul thing. He did that three times before stuffing it in a bag around his neck. The call was muffled but he could hear it in the back of his mind. It was promising him everything he wanted.
“We could find Thorin. He would be ours and no one would take him from us. We would make sure of it.” He pushed those nasty thoughts away and gently touched his ear. Yavanna! Half of the point was missing. He gave Gollum a kick and left his nasty cave.
“If I ever see this place again, I’m just going to let the little creep kill me.” He stumbled through the tunnels until he saw the same crack as before. Sunlight filtered through and he basked in the warmth. Hobbits need sun to survive just like plants they tended.
“Bilbo! What happened? Are you okay?” Fin bandaged his ear and he explained what happened.
“You should’ve bit his ear off, Bilbo! An eye for an eye!” He gave her a wary look. Perhaps he should be worried.
“We need to get going. It will take us months to walk to Mordor.” Both hobbits burst out laughing, much to Fin’s confusion.
“We’re not walking to Mordor! Are you crazy? It would take forever!” He looked them over and asked “then how are we getting there?” An bird call answered his question and a giant eagle landed a few feet from them.
“Hello Gwaihir! Thank you for agreeing to take us to Mordor!” The eagle gave a screech in answer.
“Bilbo, how’d you contact them?” Fin looked flabbergasted as the appearance of the giant bird.
“I gave a letter to a raven and asked him to pass it on.” He wasn’t sure it would work but was grateful it did. They piled on top of the great eagle and set off. It seemed like they had been flying for years when the vile peaks of Mount Doom was in sight. He was relieved. He could only play so many games of eye spy before he wanted to throw himself off their eagle friend. The orcs below didn’t notice their descent and Gwaihir dropped them off.
“It was nice knowing you! Please remember us fondly.” The eagle flew off and he stood straight.
“Alright my friends, let’s go rid the land of evil.” They had to walk up the slope and each step felt like a weight was being added to his back. It seemed the ring had caught on to his plan and did not want to be destroyed. They finally reached the top and Bilbo wiped his face.
“You can do it, Bilbo!” Lobelia chanted and he took his bag off.
“We could rule together, Bilbo! I’ve seen what’s in your heart. You want the dwarf, I can give him to you!” Bilbo curled his fingers around the ring and threw it over the edge.
“Fuck you!” He screamed as it fell into the fires.
“Oh thank Yavanna. I was about to push you in.” Lobelia sighed and hugged him close. Fin joined them and they basked in the moment. That was when the volcano decided to erupt.
Bilbo panted as he cut down another orc. He looked back and saw the lava coming up behind them.
“Uh you see that too right?” Lin was slicing through orcs like butter, his hair glistening in the wind. Bilbo would have to get his hair routine before they died.
“Let’s just dodge them and keep running!” Lobelia cleaved an orc in half and they sprinted down the mountain.
“We just have to out run them and the lava should do the rest.” He wheezed out and Lobelia laughed. They finally reached the bottom and he skidded to a stop.
“You have got to be kidding me!” A giant spider blocked their path.
“What have you done? My food is getting burnt!” She screamed and crawled towards them. Bilbo hated spiders!
“Gross gross gross! Someone get it.” He would rather get killed by the lava coming towards them. A screech broke through and Gwaihir dove forward. He picked the spider lady up with his claws and flung her into the lava.
“Gwaihir, you came back for us!” The eagle quickly landed and they scrambled on. As they flew away, Bilbo flipped the remaining orcs off.
“Suck on that!” He laid down on his feathery friend and breathed heavily.
“I can’t believe we’re not dead.” He watched Lobelia wipe her axes off.
“I know! Can you see ma’s reaction once we get home? She’s going to be foaming at the mouth!” Bilbo laughed brightly.
“My parents are going to tan my hide. I won’t be able to sit for a week!” He couldn’t help but cast his eyes towards the Lonely Mountain. He had heard from the Men in the next town over that Erebor had fought off Smaug. The Desolation didn’t happen so there would be no quest or Company. He would have no chance of seeing Thorin again. He was probably already married. Ignoring the pain in his heart, he dozed off. He never saw the look Glorfindel and Lobelia shared or Gwaihir turning West towards Greenwood.

~~~~~~

Thorin followed Thranduil through the forest. It was spring and they were meeting to discuss the trade route. The winter had been long as he waited for Dwalin to return. The Shire had welcomed them and his dwarves came back ten pounds heavier. He hadn’t had time to meet with him before he had to leave for Greenwood. As he broke through the tree line, he saw Dwalin and Balin were in the guard waiting for him. He was hoping to hear news about Bilbo. Even if it was just in passing, he would be satisfied.
“Nadad, do you see that?” Frerin pointed at the sky and he squinted as he stared at the dot that was growing closer.
“If it’s another dragon, I am not dealing with it.” He joked and Thranduil snorted.
“It looks like an eagle.” Giving a shout to his guard, he said “no one harm the eagle! They are part of Manwë’s domain.” He had not seen one in this lifetime. Probably because they stayed in the East. It was worrisome to see one so far West. The Eagle gave a screech and dove towards the ground in front of them. He saw that it had people on its back.
“Yavanna’s Green Earth, are you trying to kill us? I said to gently fly down! They’re going to think we’re trying to fight them!” A girl’s voice shouted at the eagle and it screeched back.
“Lobelia! Leave Gwaihir alone. You know he tries his best.” A voice he longed to hear came from the back of the eagle. You’re crazy, Thorin. There’s no way he’s here, he told himself. Perhaps the long hours had finally caught up to him. An elf peered down at them and he heard Thranduil cuss beside him.
“Anyone but him!” He muttered. The elf turned to the others and they were climbing down. The eagle flew off, leaving them behind.
“Wait Gwaihir, where are you going? I left my best handkerchief on your back!” Bilbo Baggins shouted at the retreating eagle. Thorin could hear someone breathing loudly and realized it was him. He could see all of the dwarfs staring at Bilbo and glared at them. He knew Fundin had found his stash of drawings and passed them around.
“Fin, I thought we were going home! Why are we stopping by Greenwood? Oh no Fin, he doesn’t like you like that.” Bilbo hadn’t noticed them and gave the elf a pitying look.
“That’s rude, Bilbo. I thought we were friends!” The elf gave a sniff and hid his hands in his face.
“Well I would offer you a handkerchief but Gwaihir has left us!” The hobbit lass turned and caught sight of them. She gave a whistle and said “Bilbo, turn around. There’s a dwarf that meets all of your standards behind us!” He froze as Bilbo turned around and their eyes met. He greedily looked him over and his eyes landed on his ear. It still formed a point but it looked like someone had carved a chunk of it off. His mind went blank and he was shouting in Khuzdul.
“Who has done that to you? Tell me their name and I will mount their head on the gates of Erebor!” The golden haired elf snorted and said “Bilbo already took care of the creature that bit off his ear.” Bilbo still hadn’t looked away from him.
“Bilbo! That very handsome dwarf is looking at you. Introduce yourself!” The lass pushed him forward and Bilbo straightened his shoulders.
“I brought you something.” He announced and dug around his pockets. He stomped forward and held it out. Thorin slowly reached forward and let it fall into his hand. He looked down and felt his breath catch in his throat. It was an acorn. Bilbo was watching his reaction and he gave him a shy smile.
“Hi Thorin.” He reached forward and hugged his One tight.
“Forgive me, my love. I am a fool and an idiot. I do not deserve you.” He whispered more apologies, Bilbo holding him just as tightly.
“I’ve missed you.” Bilbo whispered and his chest burned at the words.
“Uh Bilbo, that’s not what I meant.” A voice broke up their reunion.
“Shove off, Lobelia. We just survived that giant spider and I am trying to celebrate!”
“Lobelia Bracegirdle? Bilbo Baggins?” Dwalin asked as he stepped forward. The two hobbits shared a look and Bilbo said “yes? Can we help you?” Dwalin scowled at them.
“Where have you two been? The whole Shire has been in an uproar! You have been gone for five months!” He gave Bilbo a confused look. Wasn’t Lobelia a Sackville-Baggins? He thought they hated them? Bilbo whispered “I’ll explain later.”
“Excuse me? You have no right to use that tone with me! I’ll hack you apart like a chicken!” Lobelia was in Dwalin’s face and his cousin laughed.
“I’d like to see you try!” Before it could escalate, Bilbo dragged her back.
“Please excuse our appearance, we’ve been traveling for a while. Perhaps we could go somewhere with a bath?” Thorin was happy to oblige.
“Come Bilbo! Erebor has a beautiful indoor spring! You will love it.” He would cater to every whim his love had. He had some serious groveling to do.

~~~~~~

Thorin ignored everyone’s look as he waited for Bilbo to get done bathing. The door opened and he looked up eagerly, only to find the elf.
“Thrandy! I’ve missed you!” The elf reached out to hug Thranduil and the elf stepped to the side, causing him to fall.
“You’re so cruel.” The elf stood up and stared at him.
“I don’t believe we had introductions earlier.”
“I am Thorin Dragonslayer, Heir to Erebor.” Everyone else called out a greeting and he continued staring at him.
“I am Glorfindel.” The other dwarves gasped in shock. The Balrog slayer was here?
“I’m curious as to how you know Bilbo. You were rather friendly with him.” He questioned, his hand drifting towards his sword.
“Lin, how about you mind your own business?” Bilbo said as he walked through the door. The elf pouted and sat down.
“You’re so mean, Bilbo!”
“And I should have let that warg eat your hair!” He sat down next to Thorin and he could feel his heart racing. He was here and he was healthy. He looked him over again and noticed how thin he was. Perhaps he wasn’t healthy?
“Bring Oin here!” He barked out and one of the guards hurried off in search of the healer.
“Bilbo, tell me. Are you ill? I will find the best healer’s in Arda to come to the mountain.” He promised and Bilbo started laughing, his shoulders shaking with mirth.
“Thorin, you’re ridiculous! I’m fine. I’m actually hungry.” He motioned to another guard and he ran out in search of food.
“Bilbo, he’s practically panting at your feet.” Lobelia commented in hobbitish and Bilbo blushed bright pink.
“I would happily follow every command from Bilbo.” Bilbo buried his face in his hands and Lobelia howled with laughter.
“You have to keep him! Imagine everyone’s face when you come home with a dwarf. I think the mayor might just keel over!” She switched back to the common tongue.
“Only in my dreams.” Bilbo replied. Everyone looked confused as they looked between the hobbits.
“Prince Thorin, I’m curious as to how you know hobbitish. Outsider’s are not permitted to learn. Most people don’t actually know hobbits have a language.” Glorfindel asked, his eyes narrowed on him. Bilbo stood up and calmly kicked the elf in the shin. The Balrog Slayer crumpled to the ground and Bilbo put his foot on his chest.
“Lin, I’m only going to say this once. Keep your pointy nose out of my business.” The elf seemed resigned as he said “yes, Bilbo.”
“But because we’re such good friends, I will tell you. I accidentally intercepted a piece of mail and sent Thorin the letter with an apology. We started a correspondence and have talked for several years now.” Thorin was awed. His Kurdu was brilliant! It’s why his Company had nicknamed him Silvertongue.
“Bilbo, you can’t just kick the legendary elf.” Thorin commented but his grin showed his true feelings.
“Honestly Thorin, Lobelia and I decided there was no way Lin slayed Durin’s Bane and if he truly did, it’s from his horrid jokes.” Lobelia chimed in.
“Or he strangled it with his horrid smell! How can one smell like cinnamon when covered in orc guts? It must be the work of dark magic.” The hobbits roared with laughter as Glorfindel sighed and slumped his shoulders.
“Next time I’m letting that giant spider eat you, Bilbo!” Thorin cocked his head to the side.
“There are no spiders in Greenwood? What is he talking about, Bilbo?”
“You have to swear not to get upset!” Thorin took his hand and kissed the back of it.
“I swear it, Bilbo.” He could see his kin giving him shocked looks. He had never shown any interest in anyone romantically. Now a stranger walks in and he’s practically groping him in front of everyone. He would not hide his feelings from his One so they would just have to get used to it.
“Ahem as you can tell Lobelia and I went on an adventure.” Dwalin snorted from his spot.
“You might want to write to your folks. I thought your da was going to carve me up with his cooking knife when he first saw me.” Bilbo grinned at him and Lobelias said “I bet you would taste wonderful.” He had the pleasure of witnessing his cousin blush bright pink.
“Well we needed to go to the goblin caves.” Thorin choked on air and started coughing.
“The goblin caves?” He wheezed out. Bilbo just patted his hand.
“Yes, dear. And I found a trinket in the cave.” Thorin remembered that. Bilbo had found his magic ring. It had helped them greatly on their quest.
“Well I should say Sméagol bit off my ear and then I found the trinket.” Thorin felt his mouth fall open.
“The hobbit from the story?” Lobelia gave him a surprised look.
“You really do know Bilbo! Only he would be stupid enough to tell an outsider about hobbit culture.” Thorin blinked at her. Bilbo wasn’t supposed to tell him? He quickly backtracked.
“Oh I don't know it! I was just guessing.”
She reached over and flicked his forehead.
“You’re a terrible liar.”
“You can’t flick his forehead! He’s the Heir to Erebor.” Balin cried out.
Bilbo and Lobelia spoke in unison. “Hobbit’s don’t recognize any Kings.” Thorin laughed at the scandalized expression on Balin’s face. Early on in their Quest, Bilbo had shouted the same thing at him. He had also hit him in the side of the head with a chestnut. His kin had been outraged but he was interested. No one outside his family had spoken to him so rudely before. It was oddly refreshing.
“Anyways! Yes Thorin, you are right.” He preened at his One’s complement and made a rude hand gesture to a disgusted Frerin.
“What story?” Fíli asked from the doorway, Kíli still hiding behind him. Bilbo lit up at the sight of his nephews and Thorin practically melted on the spot. The boys had called Bilbo Irak’amad. Once Bilbo learned the word meant Auntie, he had made them embroidered handkerchiefs.
“Fauntlings! So cute! Come here and I will tell you.” The boys stomped in and sat at Bilbo’s feet, their eyes staring at the hair on top of them.
“Er Master Baggins, you do not have to tell them hobbit secrets.” Frerin stated and the other dwarfs nodded. They knew the importance of keeping traditions private.
“Nonsense! Who will stop me after all?” The elf and Lobelia laughed at his words.
“What do you mean?” He had been waiting for Thranduil to speak up. He knew the elf secretly loved hobbits. He had called them cousins and grew up hearing about them from his father.
“The Baggins family was one of the original hobbit families and instrumental during our Wandering Days. Old Took is Bilbo’s grandpa. Bilbo is eighth in line for the Thainship.” Thranduil was enthralled with her explanation.
“So he is a Prince of his people?” Thorin watched his beloved’s face. Hobbits did not believe in royalty. It was actually seen as rather embarrassing to marry a noble.
“Please do not say that. Most hobbits would box your ears over such an insult. The most important things to hobbits are kin, a warm hearth and food to share with others. Material goods make life easier but are worthless in the end.”

Chapter Text

Bilbo couldn’t believe Thorin remembered! It was like he was being rewarded for destroying the Ring. He would have crawled up Mount Doom if this was what lay on the other side.
“But the story, Master Boggins?” Fíli asked and Kíli gave him a smile. His heart was melting at the sight of his sweet boys, whole and healthy.
“Sméagol went fishing on his birthday with his brother. His brother Déagol caught a huge fish and it pulled him right out of the boat! When Sméagol finally managed to pull him back in, Déagol was holding something. Something precious. Sméagol was convinced it was his birthday present and in a fit of madness, hit his brother with a rock. He ended up killing him and that is why hobbits give gifts on their birthday instead of receiving. Sméagol was also the first case of kin killing in our records.”
“Can you imagine the look on ma’s face when you told her you hacked down THE Sméagol?” It was obvious Lobelia was having the time of her life.
“Lobelia’s ma runs a historical women’s society.” He explained to the others.
“In my defense, he chewed my poor ear off. I'm never going to show my ears again.” He was surprised at how upset he was over the fact. Ears and feet were important to hobbits. He gave Thorin a considering look. Dwarves didn’t care about that so perhaps all wasn’t lost.
“Bilbo, let’s go freshen up before your dwarf invites us to dinner.” He waved goodbye to everyone and let Lobelia drag him away.
“I like him, Bilbo! I always thought your other half would be beyond the boundaries of the Shire.” He couldn’t help giving her a tender embrace. He was so glad he got to know her. She really was a sweet lass.
“Enough of all this sappy talk. Let’s go buy some clothes!” He said and her eyes lit up. Before the quest, he had rooms dedicated to clothes. It was his obsession. He loved dressing up for outings and trying on different outfits.
“Lead the way, cousin!”
They ended up in a colorful marketplace with vendors shouting out greetings from their booths.
“Bilbo, we don’t have any money.” Lobelia stated and he held up the coin purse he had stolen from Lin. Once a thief, always a thief as Nori used to say. She covered her mouth to hide her laughter. They wandered around and Bilbo could feel the eyes watching them. He knew most dwarves had never seen a hobbit before and ignored them.
Someone ran around the corner and collided with him. Hands held him up and a familiar face looked him over.
“You alright?” Nori asked and quickly looked behind him. Bilbo could see the guards running up to them and laced his arm through the startled dwarf’s. Lobelia copied his action and they pulled him along.
“Stop right now! Let go of those two creatures!” A red haired dwarf called out and they were surrounded.
“Excuse you? Our friend was just showing us the sights. We’ve never been so far from home before.” Bilbo said and stood protectively in front of Nori.
The guards did a double take when they looked at him and started whispering between themselves. Lobelia raised her eyebrows and he shrugged. Maybe he had something in his teeth?
“That dwarf is a thief, Sulkhalûkh.” The guard explained and Bilbo narrowed his eyes.
“Fine. How about this? You can search his pockets and if you don’t find anything, you let him go.” The guards shared a look and started patting down Nori.
“We’re sorry for bothering you, Sulkhalûkh. Please enjoy your stay in the mountain.” They bowed and scurried off.
“Yavanna’s green garden Bilbo, did you wave Sting around when I wasn’t looking?”
“Why did you help me?” Nori asked and crossed his arms over his chest. It looked like he was trying to intimidate him and Bilbo found it cute. The Ri brothers were the first ones to talk to him when he joined the Company. Nori had taught him some tricks and he had found a reading partner in Ori. Dori would make him tea before he went to sleep. They hadn’t cared that he was useless or that he didn’t know how to fight. Bilbo had loved them for it. It was like he had gotten a small piece of his family back.
“Because I think you’re cute.” He handed over the big gem he had stole from Nori’s pocket and continued “and next time, don’t get caught.” He patted his cheek and walked away.
“Bilbo, did you hear what those guards were calling you?”
“I know! I’m pretty sure it meant big squash! Who even says that?”

~~~~~~

Thorin hummed as he walked into the dining room. He stopped when he saw how many people had joined them for dinner. Fundin and his sons were in attendance as were his parents. Since they had all gotten older, they usually only ate breakfast together.
“Why are you all here?” Dís shot him a dirty look.
“What do you mean, nadad? Frerin has been telling anyone with ears that you have been enthralled by a golden haired fairy.” Frerin blushed and stuttered out.
“I have not!” He pinched his nose and sat down.
“Well I suppose he’s not wrong. Bilbo’s hair is beautiful and he does remind me of a fairy. But why is he here?” He pointed at an innocent looking Thranduil and scowled.
“Prince Frerin invited me, of course.” He gave his brother a foul look. Thranduil was going to try and steal all of Bilbo’s attention!
“-and the Bilbo snuck a handful of lemons into her pie! The whole Shire was gagging every time someone mentioned blueberry pie for a year!” One of the guards escorted the hobbits in and bowed.
“Thank you for the tale, my lady. Please let me know if you need anything, Sulkhalûkh.” Bilbo opened his mouth to say something but the guard had already left. Lobelia was the first to see all of the people waiting and she let out a laugh.
“Bilbo, your dwarf moves quickly! He has already invited his kin to dine with us!” Thorin blushed and was thankful the others didn’t know hobbitish. He could hear his sister and Fundin let out a gasp when they actually saw Bilbo. Bilbo bowed and Lobelia gave a curtsy.
“Bilbo Baggins and-“ “Lobelia Bracegirdle” “At your service!” They said together and his nephews giggled at the production.
“Please sit! It is a long way from your homeland.” His father said and Bilbo sat next to him.
“Thorin, why has every guard I’ve come across called me a big squash? Is there some hobbit joke I’m not understanding?” Bilbo asked as he started loading up his plate. Balin spat out his drink and started coughing loudly.
“They are not calling you big squash.” Thorin said awkwardly and Bilbo waited for him to finish.
“They are calling you tiny dragon.” Bilbo wrinkled his nose.
“I haven’t even seen a dragon!” His kin was watching him intently and he glared at them.
“It’s because Uncle is called Dragonslayer! He’s been drawing pictures of you for ages!” Kíli said around a mouthful of food and Thorin wished the floor would swallow him up. It was all Fundin’s fault for passing his drawings around! He didn’t know what the old dwarf had been thinking.
“That’s so sweet!” Bilbo cooed and patted his hand. The hobbits hadn’t seemed bothered and just kept eating.
“You don’t mind? I will tell them to stop, if it bothers you!” Thorin said and Bilbo laughed.
“I’d rather be called that than barrel rider!” Thorin laughed. Hobbits hated water and he was sure that had been the worst part of the Quest for his One.
“Hey Bilbo, you never finished your story earlier. Why were you riding an eagle?” Fíli asked and Dís hushed him.
“My apologies, Master Baggins. They are still young.”
“Nonsense! Everyone here is free to call me by my first name.” Giving someone permission to call you by your first name was huge within dwarven society. It showed you thought of them in a favorable manner.
“That is very kind of you.” His mother said and Bilbo grinned at her. He watched her blink a couple of times before smiling back. Bilbo could make friends with an orc, he was so charming.
“So where was I?” Bilbo pretended to stroke a beard he didn’t have and the boys laughed out loud.
“You had just gotten your ear chewed off!” Kíli shouted and Glorfindel, who had just snuck in, winced.
“Ah yes. That was nasty business. I still can’t believe you didn’t get an infection, Bilbo.”
“Hobbits are a hardy people.” Bilbo gave a sniff.
“So after Lin bandaged my ear, Gwaihir appeared. I had sent him a letter through a raven and thank Yavanna, he had gotten it.” His siblings gave him a suspicious look. It was known across Arda that ravens served the Durin Line. Thorin actually didn’t have anything to do with it and was pleasantly surprised the ravens listened to his beloved.
“Yes, Lin thought we were going to walk to Mordor! Can you imagine?” Lobelia laughed and Thorin froze before turning to Bilbo.
“Bilbo, what is she talking about?” Bilbo slowly finished chewing before responding.
“You promised you wouldn’t be mad!” He reminded him.
“It turns out my trinket was the One Ring so I had to take it to Mount Doom.” Bilbo said in a rush and Thorin could see the edges of his vision turning dark. He took some staggering breaths as Bilbo watched him worriedly.
“It wasn’t that horrible. I did make Lobelia promise to push me in if I faltered though. Didn’t want another Isildur situation.” Bilbo gave a nervous laugh. Thorin rubbed his temples.
“And then what happened?” Bilbo fidgeted in his seat.
“The mountain exploded.” They had seen smoke rising from Mount Doom. They had sent word to Gandalf so he could look into the situation. He hadn’t dreamed Bilbo would be involved.
“Ah Bilbo, don’t forget about all of the orc’s we had to face or the giant spider.” Glorfindel added and Thorin paled.
“Bilbo! You hate spiders.” He shivered and nodded furiously.
“I know. Thank goodness, Gwaihir threw her at the incoming lava.”
“I can’t believe you destroyed the One Ring. Your names will go down in history!” Thranduil cried out, his eyes wide in awe as he looked at the hobbits.
“No thank you. We don’t need all of that nonsense.” Lobelia said primly.
“Yes, we didn’t do it for recognition. It needed to be done so we did it. End of story.” Bilbo continued.
“There’s no reasoning with them, Thrandy. They threatened to twist my ears right off if I told anyone!” Both elves shivered in fear and Lobelia cracked her knuckles.
“Can I be the one to tell Gandalf?” Thorin asked, his grin cheeky.

~~~~~~

Thorin froze when he found his family waiting for him in his room.
“What’s going on?” He looked everyone over to make sure they weren’t hurt.
“Is Bilbo your One, Irak’adad?” Kíli blurted out and Fíli hit him on the head
“Good job, Kíli! We were supposed to be sneaky.” Kíli’s lip started quivering and Thorin hugged his youngest nephew.
“We do not hit, Fíli. Apologize to your brother.” Fíli gave a half hearted apology.
“To answer your question, yes. Bilbo is my One.”
“How did you know what he looked like?” Dís asked him suspiciously.
“I dreamed about him.” It wasn’t technically a lie. Every time he closed his eyes, he saw Bilbo.
“It is a blessing from Aulë.” His mother said, her eyes shining with joy.
“Do we even know how hobbits' courtship works?” Frerin asked and they all looked at him. He opened his mouth to answer and realized he had never asked Bilbo. They both knew they would marry and the topic had never come up. Then he went ahead and died.
“You don’t know, do you? You’ll have to wed in the customs of both your people and his.” Dís said. His father gave a shout and said “two weddings! How wonderful.” Thorin rolled his eyes at him. Dís had always wondered how he had been so solemn when their father was so cheerful during their first life. It was probably because he had to lead his homeless people all over Arda.
“Stop, all of you. I haven’t even spoken to Bilbo about this. He-” he took a pained breath “he may not feel the same way.” Frerin walked over to him and smacked the back of his head.
“Anyone with eyes can see he feels the same way, you idiot.” Fíli shook his finger at him and said “you can’t hit your brother! Uncle said so!” Thorin gave him a smug look as the boys forced him to apologize. His family wished him well and filed out.
He plopped down on his bed and stared at the ceiling. He had prayed he would be reunited with Bilbo but never in his wildest dreams did he think he would remember as well. He swallowed thickly as he thought of the Gold Madness and what he had done. They would need to speak soon. As if summoned by his thoughts, someone knocked on his door.
“Thorin! Are you awake?” He flung himself off the bed and yanked the door open. Bilbo had changed his clothes and gave him a grin. The guards were watching them and he swore one of them whispered a blessing for their health.
“Thank you so much for the help! Thorin and I just need to have a little talk!” He waved cheerfully at them and pulled the door shut.
“Hi.” Bilbo said happily and Thorin couldn’t help wrapping himself around his beloved.
“We need to talk.” Thorin said softly and hated the shadows in Bilbo’s eyes.
“Yes, we do.” They sat opposite of each other and Thorin started.
“Bilbo Baggins, you are my other half. Aulë had chosen you to stand by my side and my actions have shown that I was not worthy. Not only did I unjustly criticize you from day one, I also gave my kin the impression that they were allowed to do the same. I did not welcome you as I should have and I’m sorry. During my Madness, you proved your loyalty and heart by hiding the Arkenstone from me. Instead of rewarding you for saving us, I did the opposite. My actions on the wall that day were shameful and I cannot apologize for how I have hurt you-” Bilbo wrapped his hand around his mouth so he stopped talking.
“Thorin Oakenshield, do yourself a favor and stop flapping your gums.” This was not how he had envisioned this conversation going.
“In my later years, I asked Elrond something. The One Ring fed off negative emotions. We theorized that it was the reason you could not break free of the Madness. If I had known-.” Thorin pulled the hobbit closer.
“It was not your fault, my heart. It seemed like we were both to blame.” Blibo gave him a bitter smile.
“Would you like to hear what happened after you died?” The next two hours were spent in silence as he listened to all of the pain his Amrâlimê had suffered without him. Bilbo spoke of his darling nephew who would sail to the Undying Lands barely in his middle age, of Arda coming together to stop an unspeakable evil, of a wizard dying and a wizard embracing evil. By the end of his tale, all Thorin could do was hold him tightly.
“There was one good thing about it.” Thorin gave him a look filled with disbelief.
“Thranduil‘s son fell in love with Gloín’s boy.” Thorin laughed as he imagined the Elf King’s face.
“Didn’t he call wee Gímli a goblin?” They laughed even louder as a weight disappeared from their shoulders. Everything wasn’t suddenly perfect but they were together again.

Chapter Text

“Bilbo Baggins! You come out here this instant!” A strict voice yelled out and Bilbo snapped his head to the side. Thorin had invited them to view the throne room in all its splendor. Entering the room was a band of hobbits with Gandalf at their side.
“Da?” He gasped out and Bungo Baggins stormed forward.
“Do you know how worried your ma and I have been? We thought you were hobbitnapped! Then we find out you went on an Adventure!” He had never seen his da so angry before and he didn’t know what to do. He may be an old hobbit mentality but he knew better than to cross his elders. His da was ranting some more before he caught sight of his ear. His face paled and he stumbled forward.
“We will discuss this later. I prayed to Yavanna everyday to watch over you and I’m thankful She listened.” He hugged him tightly. Bilbo gave a sniff. Thorin had told him he had sent warriors to protect the Shire during the winter but he still hadn’t believed his parents would survive.
“Lobelia Bracegirdle! I’m gonna tan your hide once I get my hands on you!” A large hobbit woman shrieked and Bilbo snorted into his hand. Primrose Bracegirdle was stocky and muscular from working on the farm most of her life.
“You’d have to catch me first, ma!” The woman chased Lobelia around the throne room, yelling threats.
“Bilbo, that dwarf is staring at you.” His ma said loudly and all of the hobbits turned to look at Thorin. He straightened his shoulders and said “Hello Mr and Mrs Baggins. It is an honor to meet you. I am Thorin, son of Thraín.” He gave an elaborate bow.
“I’m going to marry Thorin, da.” Bilbo announced to his parents and Lobelia laughed from her ma’s side.
“Thorin already invited Bilbo to meet his kin!” All of the hobbits spoke at once and the throne room was filled with hobbitish.
“Bilbo my boy! I hadn’t guessed you would be here.” Gandalf was just as Bilbo had remembered him and frowned.
“Gandalf, I thought you were dead. How unfortunate to find you still above ground.” He turned his back on the wizard, ignoring Frerin’s gasp of horror. The hobbits looked between them before following him.
“Ah Bilbo, do we not like Gandalf?” Thorin asked hesitantly and took his hand.
“No, we do not.” He hissed out and gave the wizard another dirty look. He would never forgive him for dragging Frodo off into the Wild.
“I see. I’m sorry, Gandalf. Bilbo has spoken.” The old man looked between the two of them.
“Thank you for escorting us, Longbeard. We have to prepare for a wedding, you see.” His ma patted the wizards knee and the hobbits left the room, leaving Thorin and Frerin behind.
“A Dwarf, Bilbo?” His da asked as they settled into the sitting room.
“My heart beats for him.” He said firmly and saw his ma squeal happily before she tackled him to the ground.
“This is wonderful news, sweetling! Your da and I thought you’d never settle down. We didn’t mind, of course but now we will get grandfaunts!” Bilbo was trying to breathe through his ma’s hair and heard someone clear their throat loudly.
“How ridiculous! Need I remind everyone that that Dwarf is royalty?” Longo Fairbairn stated and Bilbo glared at him.
“I don’t see how that’s any of your business!” He spat back and Lobelia put a hand on one of her axes.
“I’m just thinking of the Baggins ' name. Your family is admired by the whole Shire. Can you imagine how they would react to Bilbo running off with a Dwarf?” Bilbo was seeing red and that was never a good thing.
“Oh really? I’m sure it has nothing to do with your son trying to court me?” He saw Lobelia snort as Longo stuttered out a reply.
“My son would be an excellent partner.”
“I would rather marry an Orc than Ponto Fairbairn!” Bilbo gave the older Hobbit a nasty grin.
“We all know why he’s so eager to marry his son off! Ponto can’t match his clothes to save his life.” The Shire still talked about the time he had walked around town in a spotted vest with floral trousers! The room was dead silent before Longo took a step forward.
“You take that back, boy.” Bilbo just rolled up his sleeves before stepping forward as well.
“Make me.”
Bilbo couldn’t believe the audacity of this idiot! He didn’t trek halfway across Arda and be reunited with his darling dwarf, just for some old Hobbit to try and break them apart. A knock sounded on the door before Thorin peeked his head in.
“I apologize if I’m interrupting, but we have prepared a welcoming feast for you.” At the mention of food, everyone stood up and stared at him expectantly.
“Well lead the way, laddie!” Grandmother Baggins said before hobbling forward. A giant table was set up, overflowing with food. Thorin’s family plus Fin and Thranduil were waiting for them.
“Bilbo! We missed you.” Fíli cried out and he saw his ma melt at how cute Thorin’s nephews were. Introductions were made before everyone started passing plates around.
“Your Dwarf is strapping lad, Bilbo.” Granny Took said and Bilbo beamed at her.
“Did you see the color of his eyes? Simply stunning! They remind me of the flowers growing in the Old Forest.” Suddenly everyone was clamoring to get a good look at Thorin’s face.
“You’re right, cousin! They are very pretty. Prettier than any other suitor you’ve had.” Lotho Took said, grinning wildly around the room.
“And Thorin is a smith.” He announced proudly and Primrose Bracegirdle gave a sharp whistle.
“Oh my! Despite his status, you seemed to have picked a winner.” A blacksmith was the second most attractive position in Hobbit culture. Since they were made up of farmers and simple folk, anyone who could work with their hands always had their fair share of admirers.

~~~~~~

Thorin blushed under such praise from Bilbo’s kin. He had never met any of them in their first life and he was happy that Bilbo was surrounded by his family.
“So when is the wedding?” Bilbo’s mother asked and Bilbo grinned happily.
“As soon as possible. I won’t have anyone trying to steal Thorin from me.” Frerin choked on his food as Dwalin pounded on his back.
“Don’t worry about that, Bilbo! Thorin has been scaring everyone away for years!” Dís said and he sank lower in his chair. This was so embarrassing! Bilbo gave him a sweet smile before announcing “Good! I will shave anyone bald if they so much as look at him too long!” The Hobbits roared with laughter while his family gawped at him. Lobelia leant forward and said “Fin! You were so sure you could outdrink Bilbo and I. Time to put your money where your mouth is.” The next hour was spent in awed silence as the two Hobbits drank the mighty Balrog slayer under the table. The other Hobbits followed suit and they all stood up before lining up. Grandmother Baggins took a deep breath before she started singing loudly, her voice echoing throughout the chamber. Granny Took joined in and everyone else moved in unison, their feet sliding along the floor. They jumped and twirled, limbs flailing everywhere as his kin looked on. He had never seen Thranduil look so happy as he watched the Hobbits dance, Glofindel leaning heavily on his shoulder.
“Thorin! Come join us.” Biblo called out, his eyes glowing with joy. He didn’t need to be told twice as he yanked off his boots.
“Irak’adad! You're taking your boots off?” Fili sounded scandalized as he watched him.
“I would hate to step on Irak’amad’s feet.” He explained and his nephews giggled before copying him.
“We want to dance too!” Bilbo’s Mother held her arms open before shouting “Come dance with Granny, boys!” He followed his laughing nephews and took Bilbo’s hand, making sure to kiss the back of it.
“Make sure you don’t let go, Thorin.” Bilbo said seriously while gazing into his eyes. Thorin swore his heart was going to give out from such a look. They danced the night away, his family mingling with Bilbo’s. Lobelia had challenged Dwalin to an arm wrestling contest and he hadn’t seen who had won. Frerin ended up making eyes at Glorfindel while Thranduil watched in amusement.
“Bilbo works fast, doesn’t he?” Grandmother Baggins said as she stared him down. Bilbo was showing Dis the perfect bread to meat ratio for a sandwich and he blinked at her in confusion.
“I don't understand, Elder?” She rolled her eyes before pinching his ear.
“You will address me as Grandmother, boy. By holding onto your hand during the dance, Bilbo made his intentions clear. Hobbit custom states by binding your hands, you announce your intention to bind your lives. If you should let go, your union would have ended before it even began. I shouldn’t be surprised, Bilbo has always been decisive.” Thorin couldn't help his sappy smile at his Kurdu .
“I love him with my whole being. If I was forced to choose between my Kingdom and Bilbo, I would choose him without hesitation.” He told the old woman and she patted his hand.
“Good.” Bilbo came over and sat down beside him, lacing their fingers together. Now that Thorin knew the significance behind it, he held his hand tighter.
“You have twelve siblings?” His Father looked joyful as Granny Took laughed.
“Her da wanted one more but I told him I would cut it off if he so much as kissed me!” Fundin looked like he was going to faint at the news.
“So many children! What a blessing.” He murmured softly, the other Dwarfs agreeing. His nephews started yawning before Dis stood up.
“I think it is time for bed for young pebbles.” The boys pouted before Bilbo’s da softly cleared his throat.
“Perhaps I could tell you a bedtime story? Did you know Hobbits invented golf?” His voice faded as his wife followed him. Thorin quickly stood up before bowing low as he peeked up at his Amrâlimê.
“I would like to escort you to your room?” He asked and the Hobbits catcalled them before Bilbo gave them a rude hand gesture.
“I would like that.” They were silent as they walked down the hallway, guards whispering encouragements.
“I hope you have a good night.” He said and Bilbo rolled his eyes before pulling him into his room.
“Lay down, please.” He said politely and Thorin did as he was told. He would do anything Bilbo asked of him. Thank Mahal, he had forgotten to put his boots back on. Bilbo wiggled into bed before laying his head on his chest, his hand buried in his hair. Their intimate moment was interrupted by Bilbo’s stomach growling. He laughed before digging around in his pocket. He knew better than to keep a hungry hobbit waiting as he dropped the tea cake he had brought.
“You’re so sweet!” He said before digging in. He still had crumbs on his face as he started snoring. Thorin tenderly wrapped his arms around him before closing his eyes, his chest warm with happiness.