Hopeless Wanderer (Hobbit Fanfic Story)

Chapter 18: The White Council

The next day, Thorin had introduced me all the dwarves I hadn't met before, including Dís's children, Fili and Kili. They were very mischievous, and immediately got along with Oreth, Húron, Mîlel, Gilornel, Thingol, and Kyra. I wondered where Nemirel was, and Nanor informed me that he thought it would be best for her to stay behind. Although it hurt her, she obliged.

Speaking of Oreth and Mîlel, every since they were reunited, I rarely saw either one without the other. Mîlel claimed they were just friends, but I saw something more. Things were great in Rivendell, but it did not last. I knew Thorin would set off with his company to Erebor, and I feared for his safety. I offered to help, but Thorin refused, saying that he would not lose me, and that I'd be better off here...safe in Rivendell.

I sighed. I appreciate that Thorin cares for my wellbeing, but I want to help him. I then snapped back into my senses as I walked with Elrond and Gandalf.

"Were you even going to tell me about this journey?" Elrond asked.

"Of course I was going to tell you, I was waiting for this very chance. And really I-I think you can trust that I know what I'm doing."

"Do you?" Elrond retorted. "That dragon has slept for many years. What should happen if your plan should fail? If you wake that beast..."

"What if we succeed?" Gandalf inquired. "If the dwarves take back the mountain, our defenses in the east will be strengthened."

"It is a dangerous move, Gandalf."

"It is also dangerous to do nothing." Gandalf argued.

"Elrond, Gandalf has a point. Whether or not they enter the mountain or not that beast is bound to awaken some time. And what then?" I chimed in.

"The throne of Erebor is the rightful birthright of Thorin. What is it you fear, Elrond?" Gandalf asked.

"Yes, but have you forgotten the strain of madness that runs deep in that family. His grandfather lost his mind, his father succumbed to the same sickness. Can you swear that Thorin Oakenshield will not also fall?" Elrond reminded us. "Líreth and her children are part of my family, I refuse to put her or her children in any danger. Besides these decisions do not rest on us alone. It is not up to you or me, or even Líreth, to redraw the map of Middle Earth." 

We walked up the steps towards the open Council chambers as Gandalf replied. "With or without our help these dwarves will march on the mountain. They're determined to reclaim their homeland. I do not believe Thorin Oakenshield feels that he's answerable to anyone. Nor for that matter am I."

"But it's not me you must answer to." Elrond said as we arrived at our destination.

We turned to see my cousin, Galadriel. I wore a smile. I haven't seen her since the First Age.

"Lady Galadriel." Gandalf greeted.

"Mithrandir. Ah, Líreth." Galadriel greeted. She began to speak in Sindarin. "It has been a long time, I'm glad to see the both of you."

"It's nice to be able to see you after so many ages." I greeted back.

"Age may have changed me, but not so the Lady of Lorien." Gandalf complimented. "I had no idea Lord Elrond had sent for you."