Now outside, we are preparing to leave. I have changed out of my dress and into a comfier top and pants. Thranduil is helping me put the last pieces of armor on as I allow my eyes to scan the crowd of my fellow fighters. Now fully dressed, I slip my quiver around me and begin to grab my bow. I feel Thranduil's hand on my shoulder so I turn to pull him into a hug. We stand there for what feels like no time and forever at the same time.
"Let us be off," he says quietly. He squeezes me one last time before escaping my grasp. "If something happens to you-"
I put my finger to his lips not allowing him to finish his sentence. "It will be okay. We will go there and return back home once we are finished." I smile. "You can get whatever is it you want, but we will make sure Tauriel and Legolas are okay first." He smiles and leans down to kiss me goodbye.
I place a helmet over my head and adjust my armor. News of the Desolation of Smaug has been spreading through the lands. There are only the Dwarves in the mountain, and I fear they stand no chance.
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Updated 5-29-2023