#a smile reserved for his master burglar

[guardianofrivendell]

Dwarves Always Knock Thrice

Requested: Yes and no. @estethell​ challenged me to write a modern AU with Fíli and Kíli knocking at the reader’s door instead of Bilbo’s by mistake. I interpreted it as a ‘what if Fíli and Kíli end up in modern day Europe?’

Warnings: none so far, I wrote this with a fem!reader (sorry! I try to write more gender neutral in the future, I promise)

Summary: What if one day your favorite fictional characters knock on your door? A modern AU with a twist! (any similarities to what I would do in this case are purely coincidental 😏)

A/N: Yes, yes, I know. There are hundreds of fics like this one. But none of them were written by me and my weird sense of humor 😆 Depending on the response I’ll turn this into a multichapter fic, if not this will stay a standalone oneshot. 

Humming a rather cheerful tune, you pressed the button on top of the coffee machine and your morning fuel started dripping into your favorite cup. You waited patiently until the foam reached the edge and then you turned the machine off. With the cup held between your hands, you inhaled deeply. Nothing like the smell of fresh coffee for a perfect start of the day.

A few minutes ago your boyfriend had left to go to work, only to see him again by the end of next week. He was going on a citytrip with your group of friends for a few days, which had been planned ages ago.  You were supposed to go with them, but unfortunately, you didn’t have any vacation days left. No, it was back to work for you instead. 

Not that you minded. You loved your job, and you were lucky enough to be able to work from home when you wanted to. It didn’t actually feel like work that way. At least you had decent coffee, you didn’t have to dress up and you could take a break whenever you wanted.  And now with your boyfriend gone for the week, you had no interruptions and lots of quiet evenings to look forward to. Cheers to that, you thought while you sipped at your coffee. 

The dinner table became your makeshift workplace, coffee within reach. There were no video meetings scheduled today so you were wearing your favorite pair of black leggings and a long oversized knitted sweater, with fluffy socks on your feet to complete your comfy outfit. 

You moved your computer mouse and your laptop sprung to life.  James, your Sphynx cat, hopped on the table and pushed his head in your hand, demanding cuddles.

“Another day at the office, how dreadful,” you smiled, petting him behind his ear. James purred and started to bathe himself. 

He was a Sphynx cat, so there was no fur. Nothing but flawless pink skin, soft to the touch. It almost felt like petting a warm peach. You chuckled at the comparison, and James stopped his grooming to look at you. 

“Oh, I’m sorry your Majesty. I’ll let you to it.” 

You booped his nose and got to work. 

After a day of sifting through emails, processing data and editing documents and spreadsheets, you felt utterly exhausted. A phrase your boyfriend likes to throw at you on these moments suddenly came to mind, ‘How can you be so tired when you’ve done nothing but sit down on your ass all day?’ Always the charmer.

You stood up, raised your arms above your head and stretched, groaning in the process. You froze when your stretch session was interrupted by three knocks on your front door. 

“Who still knocks these days?”

It was almost 6 pm, slowly turning dark outside and you’d let the shutters down about an hour ago. It was something you did as soon as the sun was setting. It was silly really, but it made you feel safe. 

But now it prevented you from seeing who was at your door.

The neighbours from down the street wouldn’t come by for a visit, they were the kind of people that liked to keep to themselves. Your parents would call first, so… a polite burglar perhaps?

You couldn’t be too careful these days, especially now, when you were alone, so you went to your intercom first to see who was at the door. 

The camera didn’t show anyone. You could see a part of your front yard, but that was it. Strange… You thought you could hear voices, so maybe there was someone at the door after all. Maybe someone had driven their car into the ditch. Wouldn’t be the first time. You lived in the countryside, with roads where only one car at a time could pass, with ditches on both sides. A challenge for city people, and the occasional daredevil usually had to be towed out of said ditch. 

What’s life without a little risk, you thought, and made your way to the front door. You weren’t the one to turn away from people in need. It would probably get yourself killed one day, you were too kind and gullible and people tended to take advantage of that. 

Another three knocks sounded, a little louder this time and you swung the door open. 

“Finally!”

Your boyfriend rushed inside and shot up the stairs. When you looked to your driveway, you saw his car with the lights on, the motor still running. He was running late again. As usual. 

After a few minutes he thundered down the stairs, his hiking boots in hand. 

“Almost forgot these,” he said while lifting them. He kissed your cheek and ran off.  You sighed. “See you next week, sweet. I’ll miss you.” 

Sarcasm was your way to cope, to learn how to deal with the lack of love and care. Because who were you kidding? He wouldn't miss you. 

You shuffled to your kitchen, in need of something hot. To drink, that is. And while the coffee machine filled your cup for the second time that day, you rubbed your face with your hands trying to think of how you had ended up in this situation in the first place… 

“Just try and enjoy a week by yourself,” you whispered. 

You were about to take a first sip when three knocks sounded for the third time.

“Seriously?”

When you opened the door, you couldn’t stop the massive eyeroll when you saw it was your boyfriend again. 

“Hand me the reservation papers of the hotel, will you? I forgot them and I need the address for the gps,” he said. 

“I sent it in an email to Tom, and I put the address in the gps system yesterday. Now go, you’re late enough as it is. Call me when you get there okay?”

He smiled and kissed your cheek again. 

“Bye! Enjoy your week by yourself!” “I will, don’t worry,” you smiled. 

Before you closed the door there was a bright white flash. You covered your ears on instinct, something you always did when there was a thunderstorm. 

“That was very closeby,” your boyfriend gasped. “They didn’t say anything about a thunderstorm tonight.” “I’m not sure that was lightning… there was no thunder?” “It’s probably nothing to worry about.”

And with those words your boyfriend left for the second time that night. 

After closing the front door with a small heart, you tried to calm yourself.  You were terrified of thunderstorms, and you really didn’t feel like going through one when you were on your own. Let’s just hope he was right and it was nothing, you thought. 

Your coffee…! Taking a sip from the now lukewarm drink, you pondered if you would make it into an Irish or Italian one. Heaven knows you deserved it, right?  With your coffee still in hand you made your way over to the liquor cabinet, only to be interrupted by yet another pair of knocks on the front door.

“I’m going to kill him,” you murmured while you walked into the hallway. “What could he have possibly forgotten this time?”

You swung the door open with a little too much force, but you couldn’t care less by that time. The small amount of patience you had left was already out of the window and you just wanted to enjoy your spiked coffee. 

“What did you forg-?!”

Your voice got caught in your throat when your eyes fell on your visitors. Visitors. As in plural. Definitely not your boyfriend.  You recognized them immediately, there was no doubt who they were but… it couldn’t be! This was simply impossible!

In your shock you forgot you were holding your cup of coffee and it slipped out of your hand. The cup completely shattered on the floor but you hardly noticed. 

Because right in front of you, in the light of your porch light at your very own doorstep, stood Fíli and Kíli. 

As in Fíli and Kíli, nephews to Thorin, King under the Mountain. As in Fíli and Kíli, characters from The Hobbit. Fictional characters. With a heavy emphasis on ‘fictional’. Made up by Tolkien. 

So how the hell was it possible that they were standing in front of you, alive and well?

The two Durin brothers were a bit taken aback so it seemed, because they too remained silent at first. After a few awkward seconds Kíli was the one who decided to speak up instead of his older brother. He was clutching his sword and quiver, just like he did in the movie. 

“Kíli,” he began. He was side eyeing his brother who was still staring at you, and smacked Fíli’s chest when he didn’t respond.  “What?”  “Kíli,” Kíli repeated, pointing at himself and then at his brother who finally caught on. “And Fíli.” “At your service,” they both continued, bowing deeply.

“Y/N, at yours,” you responded without a second thought.  Kíli’s face split into a wide smile.

“We’re looking for master Boggins!” “Yeah, I kind of expected you to say that,” you murmured, but they heard you. “Oh, so you’re a seer?” Kíli assumed excitedly. “No! No, I’m just… me. But there is no mister Baggins here,” you said, correcting Kíli. “Are we at the wrong house?” Fíli wondered.   “I’m afraid so.” “Well… can you help us find him?” Kíli looked at you expectantly.

You sighed. “I would but, I’m afraid it’s a little more complicated than that.”

Both of their faces fell. They were so in character, if someone was pranking you, they did one hell of a job in finding these two actors. And their costumes were spot on, from the carvings on Kíli’s bow to the colour of Fíli’s fur coat. It was scaringly accurate… They looked so much like Dean and Aidan’s version, but not quite. You didn’t know why exactly, but you had the feeling they were real. They were Fíli and Kíli, sons of Dís. 

Fíli stared at you with a confused expression. “What do you mean, my lady?”

Oh. Now, if you weren’t already a little enamored by their looks, the title he just gave you would have. You weren’t exactly used to endearments. 

Not that Fíli had meant as an endearment but you wouldn’t mind if they called you my lady for the rest of your life. It just made you grow a couple of inches. 

“I’m probably going to regret this, but… come in.”  You stepped aside so they could enter the hallway. 

The heavy boots they were wearing made scratching sounds on your tile floor and your mind immediately went to your delicate wooden floors in the rest of your house. 

You were going to sound extremely bossy and uptight but you had to think of your interior. 

“Could you both maybe take off your boots?”

The two brothers looked at each other and shrugged their shoulders. 

“If you want?” Fíli asked you. 

“Please.”

You took the swords and quiver from Kíli so he had his hands free and placed them in a corner of your hallway. Fíli followed your example and added his own weapons to the pile. 

“I trust you not to attack us when we’re unarmed,” he winked at you. 

You smiled back at him, knowing all too well he still had some smaller knives hidden somewhere.  For a moment the thought of reenacting the knife scene in Mirkwood crossed your mind, but you thought better of it. He wouldn’t find it as funny as you thought it was and you’d probably lose a finger or two if you tried to take a knife from him. It was best not to challenge him. Yet. 

Once their boots were placed neatly next to their weapons, you motioned them to follow you into your living room. Your eyes drifted to the shards of your coffee mug and the spilled coffee, you needed to clean it up but it simply had to wait.

“I don’t really know how to begin explaining all this,” you said, while waving your arms around you, “but it might be a good idea if we sit down?”

You gestured towards the sitting area and both brothers took a seat on your couch.

It seemed like they didn’t know where to look first.  Their eyes wandered to your tv, surround system, laptop, aquarium, … 

Kíli whispered something in Fíli’s ear, to which the older brother shrugged his shoulders.

“Do you want to drink anything?” you suggested. “I have water, milk, beer, …”

Their eyes lit up when you mentioned the beer, so you nodded your head. 

“Beer it is, although I need to warn you. It’s Belgian beer, so it’s probably a lot stronger than what you guys are used to.”

You mentally facepalmed at your last sentence, why did you even mention that? They didn’t realize they were in a different universe, so mentioning your country would give them zero information. 

“I think we can handle it just fine,” Kíli commented with a smirk. Fíli nodded in agreement.  “Okay, but don’t say I didn’t warn you!”

After another look at the dwarves on your couch, you disappeared into your kitchen. You fetched two beer glasses out of the dishwasher and two bottles of beer from your fridge, before you noticed how much your hands were shaking.

Okay, Y/N, you need to calm down first… Easy to say when you have two dwarves sitting in your living room. Dwarves! And your favorite dwarves too.  How many times had you imagined this exact moment in your fantasies? In your dreams? 

Of course! That was it…!  You probably fell asleep at your laptop and you were dreaming.  But then why did it feel so real?

Maybe someone was pranking you after all? Nah, that wasn’t likely. Nobody knew you were even in the Tolkien fandom. Let alone who your favorite characters were. 

So it must be a dream... But if you were dreaming, they definitely would have been an exact copy of the movie Fíli and Kíli. As in, Dean and Aidan in costumes. The ones sitting on your couch looked slightly different, still handsome - Mahal, did they look handsome - but you would probably refer to them as discount Dean and Aidan. 

Your small mental breakdown was interrupted when Kili started to scream. 

“What is that?!”

Quickly snatching the bottles and glasses in both of your hands, you hurried back to the Durin princes. 

When you entered your living room, you were met with quite the hilarious view. Tolkien had described Fíli and Kíli as fearless and courageous, but there was nothing courageous about their behaviour right now.Fíli was sitting with his legs pulled up and Kili half on Fili’s back, pointing at James who was trying to jump on Fili’s lap. 

“That’s James, my cat.”

“That’s a cat?!” Kíli yelled. “What did you do to him?”

“Nothing!” you laughed, placing the glasses and bottles on the coffee table. “He’s a sphynx cat, he’s supposed to look like that. They don’t have fur.”

You called James and he immediately ran to you, so you could pick him up. He rubbed his head against your chin and started purring, happy to get some attention. 

You crouched down before the two princes.

“Go ahead, pet him. You don’t have to be scared.” “We’re not scared,” Kíli protested, puffing out his chest.  You smirked and rolled your eyes. “Of course not.”

They were wary at first, but eventually both brothers were petting James. Before you could stop him, James jumped out of your arms on Fíli’s lap and curled up against the fur of his coat. 

Fíli froze and tried his best not to let it show that he wasn’t comfortable with this at all. Next to him, Kíli had the hardest time keeping a straight face, biting his lip in an attempt to stifle his chuckles but his shoulders were already shaking with laughter. 

You poured their beer and placed it in front of them. 

“Like I said, it’s pretty strong so small sips. Do you want me to take James away?” Fíli shook his head. “I-it’s fine!”

You took a seat on your other couch and anxiously started to rub your thighs. 

“So… like I said, I don’t really know how to explain this but I think I know what happened to you.” “Wait… did something happen to us? I don’t understand?” Kíli asked, raising his eyebrows in confusion.

Oh, right. They didn’t realise they were in a different universe right now. Maybe you should take a different approach. 

“Can you tell me what happened before you knocked on my door?”

Kíli took the two glasses and gave one to his brother before he took a gulp, humming appreciatively. 

“I like this,” he said. “And to answer your question, we traveled to the Shire and knocked on the door with the mark. And here we are!” “But… my door doesn’t have a mark?”

It was Fíli’s turn to roll his eyes. “Kee, you’re not telling the whole story. But you’re right about this,” he smiled while raising his glass, taking another sip. “This is good stuff.”

You chuckled when you saw some foam sticking to his mustache.  He raised an eyebrow at you. “What’s so funny?”

“I have enough beer in the fridge, you don’t have to save some for later,” you laughed, pointing at your own lip to get the message across. 

Fíli quickly wiped his mouth with the back of his sleeve. The movement made James shift in his lap and the Dwarf went rigid again.  You decided not to say anything about it, you figured maybe Fili didn’t like cats that much. Or just James. 

“So what did Kíli leave out?” “Your door wasn’t the first one we knocked on. There was a round, green door in the Shire. And that one had the mark of Gandalf. He’s a wizard.”

You nodded. So far it went exactly like it should. Shire, green door, mark. 

“But when we knocked on it, we found ourselves in a field all of a sudden. And your house was the only one around so we figured that was where we were supposed to be. Since Gandalf is a wizard, you never know what to expect.”

Okay, that was different. It almost sounded as if they went through a portal of some sort. Like a portkey? They touched the portkey and traveled to a different universe? But portkeys weren’t part of Middle Earth, that was Harry Potter. Did they have something similar?

“You’re not in Middle Earth anymore,” you said softly. 

Both brothers stared at you with wide eyes, their beer long forgotten. Kíli looked at his older brother, and pulled at his sleeve.

“What does she mean by that?”

Fíli kept his eyes fixed on your face, searching your features to see if you were lying. If you were trying to prank them. 

“It means that you traveled between different worlds. In my world, where you’re in right now, Middle Earth is fictional. A story. It doesn't exist. Just like my world doesn’t exist where you’re from.” “I don’t believe you,” Kíli said with a frown. 

You had expected this. It’s not like you would’ve believed them if you were in their place. 

“Look around,” you tried to explain, “you can see things you recognize. The furniture, me being a human, … But you can also see things that you don’t understand. They are from this world.”

“You said Middle Earth was a story to you?” Fíli asked you.  “Yes. There are tales about Middle Earth, and Elves, Dwarves, Hobbits, the race of Men, … Orcs, wargs, goblins,” you explained, careful not to mention anything about their storyline or the one with the One Ring. “But I’ve never thought it could be real.”

They stayed silent for a few moments, letting it all sink in. 

“How… How do we get back to Middle Earth?” Fili wondered.  “I’m sorry, I really don’t know. But I’m going to help you find your way back. We’ll figure something out.” 

You played with your fingers, a telltale sign you were nervous.

“And in the meantime you can stay here... With me.”

A/N: There you go... This is the setup for a possible new multichapter fic if people are interested in it.   Just think of the two brothers in a modern day kitchen and bathroom, how the reader tries to cope with her fictional crush in her home and... how will they get back to Middle Earth? Would you be interested to read that? Let me know!  And of course let me know what you thought of this story :) 

A/N part 2: Sometimes tumblr switches paragraphs for no reason at all, if you notice this happened, send me a message! I’ll try and keep an eye on it myself, but some help is always appreciated.

Permanent taglist: @roosliefje​ @kata1803​ @artsywaterlily​ @entishramblings​ @sleepy-daydream-in-a-rose​ @marvelschriss​ @kumqu4t​ @myrin1234​ @dark-angel-is-back​ @the-fandoms-georgie​ @lathalea​ @xxbyimm​ @sokkasdarling​ @katethewriter​ @aredhel-of-gondolin​ @leethology​ @thepeanutcollective @elvish-sky​

Kíli taglist: @elles-writing​ @sxperncturalimpala67​

[7spaceace7]

By Fireflies’ Glow (Bagginshield)

Soooo I made a Bagginshield fic based off of this post and it’s on my Ao3 if you prefer to read it there, but here it is! The firefly scene didn’t make it into the movie’s cuts, so I made it myself and made it gay for good measure.

Word count: 2237

Warnings: None, unless you count unreasonable amounts of pining

Rivendell’s magnificence only extended into the evening, after the last light of day passed over the mountains surrounding it. Streaming waterfalls cascaded over the cliffs below, leading into rivers and streams down past the elven borders. Dusk crept up on Eastern skies in parallel to the setting sun, until the moon above followed its path high into the sky. Where there was sunlight cast into the water, silver moonlight now shone upon its surface. Bilbo had never seen an evening so beautiful, not in all his years. 

The beauty of Rivendell had so captured him that the hobbit had spent nearly all his time wandering about the kingdom. While his dwarrow companions dined together, Bilbo explored the main halls of Rivendell, and the hobbit was quick to continue his self-guided tour just after Thror’s map had been translated. There was no doubt that Bilbo had fallen in love with the Valley of Imladris. He had to see as much as he could before their journey picked up once more.

At least, that was his excuse to distract from the real reason he had put distance between himself and the others. In truth, he did not feel welcome at their table. Bilbo was acutely aware of his outsider status to the dwarves; he may have been a contracted burglar of this company, but the hobbit knew he was still viewed as little more than a burdensome stranger without any experience of the larger world. The worst part was that he couldn’t blame them.

It was no secret he was inexperienced. What he had in his skills of gardening and baking (the best cakes from scratch in the Shire, you see), he lacked in the practical adventuring repertoire of sword fighting and travelling across Middle Earth. He was a Baggins of Bag-End after all, such respectable hobbits didn’t just up and leave on journeys with strange dwarves who ate his pantry stock.

But then, Bilbo supposed he wasn’t a respectable hobbit anymore. He had left that title behind as soon as he grabbed his signed contract and rushed out of his rounded door all that time ago. Instead, he was a member of a perilous quest to slay a dragon and reclaim a dwarven kingdom. However, the title of “adventurer” didn’t seem to belong to him either. 

Another rounded corner of the path led Bilbo to find himself back where his exploration had started in the gardens. He hadn’t meant to come this way again, but it seemed his feet had started wandering on their own when the hobbit became lost in doubt. Bilbo didn’t mind, though. 

The gardens of the elves were some of the most enchanting he’d ever seen. Hedges encircled the area, trees sprung up their lanky limbs that seemed to welcome all who ventured there. It was well-kept, organized, and filled with flowers of all colors he’d only ever seen in books. The colors seemed to glow by moonlight as well, transforming into translucent blues, purples, and greens. Bilbo used to daydream about places like these from reading his books, wondering what it would be like to live in a place where such beautiful things can grow. Lord Elrond’s offer of staying in Rivendell returned to his mind.

“Master Baggins,” Came the rough voice of Thorin Oakenshield, pulling the hobbit from his thoughts in surprise. Bilbo’s head turned to see that the gardens had already been occupied by said dwarven king, who sat upon the backless, stone-carved bench alone. He held an expression that Bilbo could not place. At the least, it was not a glare or look of disdain toward him as usual. “I was beginning to think you’d run off. You made quick leave after reading the map. You weren’t at dinner, either.”

“You’re right, I was..”The hobbit shifted to his other leg. The words didn’t find him to explain that he didn’t think himself welcome in their company. Exploring didn’t seem much like a Baggins pastime either, so Bilbo’s sentence hung unfinished. “I didn’t realize someone else was here. I expect you wish to be left alone, I’ll take my leave-”

“The others are resting,” Thorin said before Bilbo could take even a step away. His gaze turned away from the hobbit and back to the open trees. “I couldn’t find sleep.”

“...So you came here?” 

Thorin bowed his chin in a nod. The halfling recalled many sleepless nights of his own being comforted by the fresh air found in his garden back home. He allowed himself to wonder if this was something he and the dwarf had in common.

“I never took you for a lover of nature.”

Perhaps on better terms, Thorin might have seemed amused. “I assure you, I am not. The gardens just happened to be far enough away from the sounds of Bombur’s snores.”

“I see. It is rather peaceful. In the gardens, I mean.”

“Indeed.”

Moments of silence stretched between the unlikely pair while the two admired their surroundings, even if Thorin wouldn’t admit to elvish work capturing his attention. Bilbo remained awkwardly at the steps of the garden where he was first stopped. He didn’t mind standing since Hobbits had more resilience in being on their feet for long amounts of time, but to Bilbo’s surprise, Thorin made room on the bench beside him. 

The halfling’s lips twitched in figuring what to say, should he say anything at all. Finally he decided that he ought to try and test the waters. If Thorin was offering him a place to sit, he would take the opportunity and see where it took him. The Tookish part inside told him that this could be his chance to reconcile their strained first impressions. Bilbo walked over and took his seat at the far end of the bench.

“I have my own garden, back in Bag-End,” He started, after the silence became too heavy to hold any longer, “You might have seen it when you arrived that night. It’s certainly not as impressive as this, but then I’m just one hobbit compared to many elves. Besides, it has all the flowers I really need, all of my favorites. The Shire has perfect weather for my hydrangeas best of all.”

The dwarf didn’t speak as he watched him ramble. Bilbo didn’t think Thorin much the type for listening about gardening techniques and therefore spared the details, but a quick glance over to the dwarf proved that he was, indeed, listening. Still silent as ever, but this was a bit different. The exiled king seemed at peace for once. Like he was grateful to hear of a hobbit’s silly affinity for plants instead of a mountain kingdom to be reclaimed.

It was a sight Bilbo found himself having trouble looking away from. He willed himself to focus on the fireflies gathering around the bushes instead. 

“Gardens were not to be found in the mountain,” Thorin’s voice softened at the mention of his old home. He always regarded the Lonely Mountain with careful, almost protective, thought. Bilbo’s eyes settled back on the dwarf and clung to every word. “Nothing grows underground, of course. No grass or soil to grow it, and there was no true light, save for the forges and fires burning.”

“None at all? Did you never go outside..?” Bilbo asked. He had known dwarves were the type to mostly stay underground, but such a concept still seemed so foreign to him. Hobbits were known to spend practically all of their time outdoors, and there was light everywhere he could remember. Thorin, however, shook his head.

“Dwarves in that time were born into the darkness of caves. They grew used to seeing rock instead of sky, and I was no different. From the moment I could walk, my time was devoted to training, watching my grandfather as he ruled so I could one day take his place. Learning of the kingdom and its people, of how to protect and serve them, everything a young prince must know,” Thorin explained. His eyes cast toward the ground as he hunched over, deep in thought. It seemed a painful memory sprung from his words without his meaning to. “There was no time for anything but such duties, especially as my grandfather’s health began to fail...” 

Thorin trailed off with regret held in his eyes. 

“There was little I knew of the world outside of Erebor’s halls, and that’s how it would have stayed were it not for the snake residing there now,” The exiled king finished with bitten words. Bilbo shifted uncomfortably.

“I’m sorry to hear it.” 

“I have no need of your pity,” Thorin’s words were said without malice. Instead, they were filled with shame, like he believed he did not deserve sympathy. Like this horror was his fault, somehow. “Especially from someone who knows a very different life.”

“Actually, it doesn’t sound completely different.” 

The dwarf’s taken aback look was all he needed to continue.

“I mean, I certainly wasn’t an heir to a kingdom, but in the Shire you didn’t go much of anywhere else. Sometimes to Bree if you were the type, but that would get you odd looks from the rest of town, and by no means were you considered the respectable sort. In fact, I’m sure by now I’ve probably been declared mad beyond all reason, going off on adventures with strange dwarves and a wizard.”

The light brown curls framing Bilbo’s face bounced when he chuckled. Thorin found himself wondering why he noticed this. 

“Hobbits simply don’t care much for learning what outside the Shire borders holds. We don’t get visitors, and we don’t do any visiting of our own. So..I suppose in that regard, I understand not knowing much else but what expectations you’ve been born to,” Bilbo finished with a hesitant smile. It was a smile simply for Thorin in that moment, reserved for his eyes and his eyes alone. And yet, the dwarf looked away, startled by its intimacy.

“I see both our clans have deemed us mad, then,” Thorin said, clearing his throat to hide the sudden topic shift.

“How do you mean?”

“The other dwarrow leaders called our quest a fool’s death sentence. I made mention of it before we left your home, but in truth they did not use as-- encouraging-- words as I led the others to believe,” The words of mockery bounced back bitterly to the forefront of his mind. “They believe we won’t make it alive to even reach the mountain. It is why we take on this task alone.”

Bilbo’s mouth twitched in thought again. “Well,” He began, “Perhaps they’re right.”

Thorin’s shock bubbled up instantly, paired with a list of insults in Khuzdul that he had half a mind to repeat from the aforementioned dwarrow council. The hobbit knew that look and raised his arms in defense.

“What I mean to say is, yes, perhaps you won’t reach the mountain, perhaps that’s how we’re fated to finish, but,” Bilbo took a breath, calmed his nerves, “It is still a noble cause to see through the end. And I know each of those who’ve followed you this far would agree. Anyone who doubts you hasn’t got the courage to see it as such.”

Thorin’s eyes softened. He looked down at the smaller creature, such a curious thing by anyone’s standards. A hobbit of the Shire, fond of books, green gardens, and the comforts of home, and yet it is he who has remedied his doubts of his birthright. 

“...Thank you.”

Bilbo simply nodded. Even if he himself wasn’t fit for this journey, he truly did hope these dwarves would succeed. They’d all lost so much when their home was taken from them. Especially Thorin. Thorin Oakenshield, who’d braved unfathomable death and destruction and still stood, facing up against an almost impossible task. And here he was, thanking a small hobbit for mere words. 

Their lives could not be more different-- and still, they were familiar. 

A soft, shining glow from the middle of the garden grove brought their attention away from one another. Dozens and dozens of fireflies had snuck their way closer and completely surrounded the pair on the bench. Their patterns blinked and glimmered for all to see, with shimmering water nearby to exemplify the view. Thorin, surprisingly, was the one captivated most. His cobalt blue eyes shimmered from their reflection, trained on their light.

“Perhaps you were right. About us being raised too differently,” The hobbit mused. A smile tugged at his lips as he watched the king become a prince again. “I don’t remember being so enthralled by the nightly fireflies.”

Thorin chuckled. A small, but genuine, bout of humor. Honestly, it almost shocked  Bilbo into the next age.

“Forgive me. I suppose I just never stopped to notice them before. Not in all my journeys across Middle Earth,” His smile lingered. Bilbo’s brightened. 

They held such a gaze for some time in comfortable silence. At first meeting, Thorin had sized up the simple hobbit for a commoner, unfit for the wilds of the journey the company had planned to cross. And perhaps that was still the case. Only time would tell if Bilbo was truly a loyal member of this quest, but for now, they had this moment to share.

That is, until Gandalf’s voice was heard passing along the bridge mentioning the dwarven king by name.

[gwen-ever]

I am coming home (bibloxcompany/afterlife)

A/N: Just something I had for a long time ready (eng not my first language sorry for mistakes :/)

Summary: Bilbo after a long life goes back home.

Warnings: sad, very sad, major character death, angst, sad fluff at the end.

Song: Coming Home - Skylar Gray

And the blood will dry

Underneath my nails

The years had passed, the hands worn out, the spirit withered.

Bilbo had struggled all his life, struggling against the desire to leave again, to see the Wilds again, to taste the air of the Misty Mountains, to rest under the shadow of the Lonely Mountain.

Dry was the blood on his blade, dry was the blood under his nails, washed away by the inexorable time, which flowed for him at last.

His last journey was never so desired, but his youthful spirit had abandoned him in the gardens of Rivendell. Like a blade beaten too long his spirit had broken, under the trees that withered in the valley. He would have never seen again the white peaks, no longer hear the thrushes or watched the great dwarves' rods that guarded the Mountain's entrance.

His memory left him, his hair got greyed, his skin crumbled and all his memories disappeared, leaving small fragments that seemed to him more and more confused, like all the faces from the people around him and their voices, only faint whispers.

And the wind will rise up

To fill my sails

White sails accompanied him in his last adventure, sails that would take him beyond his conception of the world, in a land of immortal memory and existence. Where everything would be peace and joy, and his withered heart would finish to beat.

The salt on his hands became more and more intangible, the days were always the same, the memories now completely disappeared gave him no more joy, he often wondered where he was, with whom he was and who he was. He was, he is, he will be, it didn't matter anymore.

So you can doubt

And you can hate

And there it was, a warm light, rising from behind white ribs, it illuminated the marked wrinkles on his face, but like a dawn too late it did not illuminate the soul of Bilbo, who in that instant, as the bright horizons approached, collapsed.

Even that time his journey was not over, stuck halfway through again, unable to move between the past and the future. Fate had reserved for him one last mockery, the last disappointment,the last pain, the last loss.

The greyness of the shapes in front of him became darker and darker, the voices more and more feeble, the eyes heavier and heavier, while for the last time he leaned on Frodo's shoulder, tired, tired for the last time.

But I know

No matter what it takes

It was a moment, his eyes snapped open, a whiff of air made him jump slightly backwards, but something blocked him, a fence, a fence he knew well. He looked at his hand on it while it was resting on the wood: it was smooth and spotless, timeless.

He made his gaze fall even lower by lowering his neck, little golden cufflinks adorned the long red sleeves of his jacket, a green vest was wrapped around his chest. He took a breath: it could not be his, he was too old , too worn by time. He wasn’t understanding.

When he looked up, the Bag-end was in front of him, so real that he stood motionless looking at every tile, every stone on the pavement, up to the green roof that lay on it. The evening light illuminated the old round door, which was ajar. From under its doorway came out a warm light, as well as from the two small windows on its side.

Slowly he began to walk too amazed to be able to hold his weight, he climbed the small stone steps trembling slightly. His legs hadn't been this strong for a long time, his eyes distinguished colors and his mind was clear of past horrors and confusion. He approached the doorway stretching his hand towards the door, a faint voice and the sound of footsteps blocked his hand a few inches from it.

Those voices.

A sudden heat permeated his chest.

He reached out his hand towards the door and pushed it slightly, something told him there was no need to knock.

I'm coming home

I'm coming home

Tell the world I'm coming home

Bag-end was as he had left: his armchair by the fire, the documents scattered on the table were in disorder, his maps moved to one side of the table, while his huge book was resting on the desk. But there was something different. Slowly and trembling he approached towards the small corridor, there the voices were louder and louder.

Those voices, those words, those noises.

His eyes began to moisten as he slowly looked out towards the door of his kitchen and let a tear drop at the sight of its interior.

Let the rain

Wash away

All the pain of yesterday

"Mr. Baggins! You are here!"

Kili's head rose smiling from the back of the room, with a smile that would have lit up the whole room if it had been possible. Twelve dwarves were around the table of his dining room, plates scattered along its entire length, full and overflowing beer mugs, stains on the walls and food scattered all over the floor.

"You ruined the surprise, I told you what we had to do, brother!"

Fili grabbed Kili's jacket and pulled him slightly down to his seat.

"Bilbo! You finally made it!" Bofur got up smiling from close to the door and looked out from it, the funny hat was swinging on his head while talking. "We were wondering where you were. I'm only sorry that Bombur snuck into the pantry, there wasn't much left, but Dori managed to prepare something". He nodded inhaling a bit from his brown pipe.

"Something that isn't soup!" Fili shouted in the back of the room laughing and raising his beer mug high to the ceiling.

"And he's also right, do you have any idea how long we've waited?" Grumbled Dwalin sitting by the door with his hands crossed at the chest "We were getting old here!”

"Dwalin don't be rude, Mr. Bilbo must have had his work to do." Dori scolded him, arranging the last dishes meticulously and placing a big pot around the table.

"We-we have kept everything in order! Mr. Bilbo!" Said Ori extending his head beyond Nori who was holding an arm around his shoulders, nodding looking directly to him.

"I, however, Bilbo, borrowed some of your pipe weed, I hope you don't mind".

"Sure, who knows who smoked it all, everyone here is good with other people's things." Glòin grumbles, sitting better on the chest. "Here, if it weren't for m,e you would all still have broken pipes, I invest well in Durins name!” He grumbled but that thing only made Bilbo smile even more and all of sudden he allowed a silent tear to come out, rolling down on his cheek, looking all the dwarves one by one while his hands started to shake.

I know my kingdom awaits

And they've forgiven my mistakes

It wasn't possible, it couldn't be, they were there for real, it wasn't a daydream, they were there. He remained silent while everyone was staring at him, some of them anxious while others with a slight smile on their lips.

"Y-you're here." He whispered and let a sob come out of his chest, causing Balin to worry, who came up from his seat and put his hand on his shoulder.

"Are you alright laddie?" He didn't answer, he looked at him and continued to let the salty drops fall on his cheeks. Bilbo nodded quickly and wiped his tears with the back of his sleeve, but they did not stop pressing his eyes insistently.

"Sorry, I-I...I've been busy." He said among the tears, pulling up his nose. "I'm sorry, I'm sorry for everything." He cried as he looked at them in the face again and a sad smile was painted on everyone's face but their gaze changed when their eyes moved to something behind his shoulders.

"You made it in the end master burglar." A deep sudden voice made his heart stop, or made it start again, he could not say for sure. He only knew that when he turned to look behind him, the tears stopped suddenly. There had not been a day when that voice did not echo in his head, when that look did not haunt him, when his blood did not stain his clothes.

Two blue eyes looked at him, kindly, a small smile appeared on the face of the dwarf with long raven hair greyed by time.

"Welcome home Bilbo."

I'm coming home

I'm coming home

Tell the world I'm coming

Home

[finnofamerica]

Crawl - Thorin Oakensheild x Reader

Summary: Upon meeting you in Bag End, Thorin immediately knows that you are his one, but for the sake of the quest he decides to keep that to himself. 

Word Count: 1,151

Date posted: 05.08.2020

Note: I want to give a very special thanks to @fizzyxcustard​ for her wonderful advice on writing Thorin, and I wanted to extend my thanks to everyone else who helped me with his charaterization - including the people whose content I shamlessly consumed. Title based off of Kings of Leon bc I really vibed with the song when I was thinking about this one. 

|| Masterlist || Requested by @queenofmankind​

Bag End was a cute little Hobbit hole in Hobbiton. It was warm and cozy and filled to the brim with thirteen dwarves, a wizard, and the hobbit himself. Naturally, the second you knocked on the door Bilbo Baggins was ready to throw down. 

“No! No more Dwarves!” You hear him yell from beyond the threshold. 

“I’m no dwarf, Master Baggins!” You laughed as the door swung open. “Y/n.” 

You could hear Gandalf inside, telling the little hobbit to let you in. 

“Gandalf,” You gave the older man a hug, “Sorry I’m late.” 

“Nonsense, child.” 

Thorin hated the idea of you being there, but Gandalf put up as much of a fight for you as he had for his burglar. Thorin studies you, all intense grey eyes and brows furrowed. He could hardly believe that you, looking like a gift from Mahal himself, were as fierce a warrior as Gandalf insisted that you were. He knew instantly that you were his One. You seemed to glow in the honey light of the Hobbit home, ethereal in your seat, polishing arrows and knives. 

You were listening to every word, despite the fact you busied yourself with your weapons. Glancing up every now and again, meeting the King’s eyes. You were curious about Thorin, almost certain that his gruff attitude wasn’t all there was to him. Just like Bilbo, Thorin alienated you from the group, speaking on how you didn’t belong, and you weren’t meant for such things. By all the gods in the heavens, you were determined to prove yourself a valuable member of his company. 

You took the late watch most nights, keeping to the edge of the camp, eyes scanning the darkness, listening. 

“It is late, you should rest,” Thorin said to you while the other’s snored. 

“With all due respect, Your Majesty, You hardly sleep, and when you do it is hardly restful. I am fully capable of handling the watch, and should I tire, I will wake Master Dwalin to take over.” You gave him a smile. “I know how much is at stake for you, rest well.” 

From that moment Thorin was more thoughtful with you. Not in the, he’s overly nice kind of way. More that he was watchful, almost admiring the way you were kind to every member of the company. You’d repaired Ori’s slingshot more than once, mending tears in tunics, and putting up with his nephews’ antics with nothing less than a smile on your face. At night, when you shivered in your sleep, Thorin couldn’t stop himself from covering you with his cloak to ease your chill.

The fact that he knew you were his One was eating him up inside. He knew he had to keep an eye on you - you were the one he was meant for. The universe promised him to you and the fact that he couldn’t tell you was torture to him. But he knew he couldn’t let his longing get in the way of reclaiming Erebor. He could not let this be a distraction from his journey for his rightful home. So he couldn’t help but tell his most trusted advisor, Balin. 

Balin was kind with his words, suggesting that he tell you. Tell you about the fire that burned in his soul for you. Some nights, when he looked at you, he feared that you could see it in his eyes. Still, Thorin refused but knowing Balin shared part of that weight relieved him.

Mirkwood was a dreary place. The canopy blocked the sun and the cobwebs in the branches turned whatever light filtering through a dull grey. You were familiar with these wood, and you suggested taking the lead, only to be denied. 

Covered head to toe in cobwebs, you stood in the group as the Mirkwood Elves surrounded. 

“Y/n,” Legolas lowered his bow, “What are you-?” 

“It’s a long story.” You shrugged, following as the guard lead the dwarves to the dungeons. 

“Y/n, why do they know your name?” You could hear Bofur ask, he was quickly silenced by the elf next to him. 

“What did they do with Y/n?” The dwarves asked. None of them had seen you get locked in a cell, “Where is Thorin?” 

Many of them knew you were his one at this point, and they all worried for you. You weren’t a dwarf, but you were as much a part of this company as any of them and if they were to succeed, they would have to stick together and defend their own. 

In the throne room, Thranduil was looking down at the Dwarf King. 

“You have found a way in. You seek that which would bestow upon you the right to rule. A King's jewel. The Arkenstone. It is precious to you beyond measure, I understand that. There are gems in the mountain that I too desire. White gems of pure starlight. I offer you my help,” Thranduil was a smart man, you hoped he would be kind. “I will let you go, but you must return what is mine.” 

You frowned at Thorin denied his offer. He should’ve taken the offer. Though you hardly wanted to admit that you’d grown a soft spot for the dwarf. 

“Enough!” You shouted, pushing yourself off the wall you were leaning against. “Thranduil, this will be completed with or without your help, and we are running out of time.” 

The silver-haired Elf king glowered at you. 

“You may be my lover but you have no right to speak to me this way.” Thranduil scolded. 

“You have given me a home, and you have treated me better than I could’ve ever asked for, but I ask for this.” You stood your ground, not backing down even as he invaded your personal space. “Please, if you will not help us, then at least let us complete our quest.” 

Thranduil let out an agitated breath. “Very well, but you risk your home.” 

“If I can help return these dwarves to their rightful home it will all be worth it.” You cupped his cheek, “I know all too well what it’s like not to belong anywhere.” 

Thranduil spoke a few words to his son, telling him to release the dwarves and send them on their way. 

Lover, the word burned in Thorin’s brain with a fire that consumed. They were released from their hold, and that they had to be grateful to you for, but Thranduil’s lover! You were Thorin’s one, how could you settle for sleeping with his enemy. 

Thorin’s heart longed for you, but every time he looked at you after that, he could only see Thranduil holding you, loving you in the way he had long desired over these past months. Cold, reserved, just when you thought he was warming up to you, he completely changed. A scorned king, longing for a woman who was spoken for. 

|| Part 2 || Tags: @fizzyxcustard​ 

[imagine-loki]

The Slutty Webs One Weaves

Title : The Slutty Webs one Weaves

Chapter NO. 2 of 10?

ORIGINAL IMAGINE: Imagine Loki’s Asgardian wife learns women write fanfiction about him on a trip to Midgard. She’s edgy for the duration and lets him have it when they get back.

Author: lokilover9

Rating: M

Notes: Hello everyone. I will get to writing another chapter of Irked, but for now, here’s a mini crack fic. Should be good for a laugh or two.

When Loki and Astrid entered their vehicle in the Towers underground, he opened portal, exiting in the woods on Staten Island and she pouted.

"Not hiking again, Loki. Skunks are mean."

He tisked. "Bushy tailed scoundrels. I did warn you to keep away."

"I thought it was cute. Where are we?"

"A dumping location of one golden eyed jester. No matter." He conjured a cabin and opened its door. "Still wish to get naked?"

They fucked for hours until Astrid lay spent, resembling a deflating blow up doll.

"Dress now my lovely? I'll gather your belongings from the truck."

With her brain afloat in subspace, she hazily replied. "Yes Master." *****

They entered Asgard and Heimdall arched a brow at her bedraggled appearance. "Welcome back, my lady."

"Midgardians make edible panties."

Loki scooped her into his arms. "Nothing a good slumber can't fix. Ta ta, jester." He chuckled upon pulling a key from his pocket when undressing. "I dare to ponder your predicament before realizing this missing, Cootyoodles." *****

Weeks passed while down on Midgard, several burglaries had occurred in rich homes around New Jersey. Only cash was ever stolen, yet the thieves exceptional skill at avoiding detection was a growing concern.

Pepper and Tony sat watching the news.

~ "Another burglary in Jersey last night left police no closer to identifying a suspect. More at eleven." ~

"Didn't the thiefasaurous make a peanut butter and banana sandwich at the last house,? I'd love to know how they're hacking the security cameras. Clever bastard."

"Could be a woman, but definitely a pro."

"There's an erotic vision. You dressed as a bandit, searching a homeowner's porn reserve while snickering at their amatuer bondage supplies."

"Why risk imprisonment? Were the porn in your 'Butch's Bitch' file dvd's, they'd line a path from here to Miami."

"Ooooh, does that mean we're on the same page?"

"Mmm..no. You're horny and I'm craving nachos. Please unravel yourself from my thigh?"

Stark playfully gnawed on it. "And if I don't? What then, Mistress?" He obeyed when the lights flickered and Jarvis announced a security breach. "Speaking of bandits, ours is an Alien God breaking a promise."

"Jarvis never detected him before."

"Likely an impish forewarning attempt. I'd bet a thousand he's hoping I'm shackled to the coffee table, sucking a rubber cock for his own amusement."

'Note to self.' Thought Pepper. 'Add to 'to do' list.' "What makes you think him so savage?"

"Loki's a sexual deviant."

"Oh?"

'Blabbermouth. Now she's intrigued.' "Everything back to normal, Jarvis?"

"Yes, Sir."

"Told ya and I know just where to find the prick." Tony stepped onto the sixtieth floor to find it minimally illuminated by the moon. "Nice touch, Snowflake. A prelude to another smug entrance? Consider it your last." When met with silence, he angrily strolled to the rooms center. "Show yourself! NOW!"

More silence, except for the hum of the approaching elevator.

"Huh. Never pegged you for a coward." Tony didn't intend to fight Loki. Merely to end their friendship, while emphasizing the seriousness of his boundaries being overstepped.

The intruder judged otherwise.

The door slid open and from behind the bar, came a sphere of light travelling at warp speed, making a whooshing sound as it encompassed his suit pieces, halting their pursuit, then dropping them to the floor in a clanging heap.

Stark sat crouched on his knees, enthralled by a figure slowly emerging from the shadows.

"I am not a coward Iron M..Man."

He lurched forward and the swaying soul fell limp in his arms as the rooms lights flickered on. "What the hell?" Moments later, he rushed off the elevator to a shocked Pepper. "Meet our intruder."

"A child???"

"Surprise?"

She offered a warm cloth as he timed the wee souls pulse. "Heart rates good."

"Who…"

"Didn't get a name." Clad in males clothing a size too big and a snug fitting Captain America cap, the child was filthy. Upon removing it, a mass of knotted, raven hair fell over his arm.

"He's a she?"

"Apparently." Desperate to rouse her, Tony kept talking, while wiping her face. "Can you hear me, kid? Come on, wake up." His actions revealed flawless, alabaster skin, high cheekbones, a perfect nose and overly pink lips. Her fingers were long and slender, as were her limbs and the more he looked at her, everything began to click. "If her eyes are green, someone has some 'splaining to do, Lucy."

The girl stirred, scrambled from his lap, bolted across the room and halted in a battle stance, fists raised, brows furrowed and her piercing green eyes, wildly darting between him and Pepper.

He slowly rose, arms in the surrender position. "Easy, Little Warrior. We won't hurt you."

"Where's my hat?" She sternly demanded.

Tony slid it across the floor and she planted it sideways on her head, sloppily tucked her hair inside and returned to battle stance. "Liar! I came to you for help and was almost attacked!"

"My goof, kid. Ya scared me. What's your name?"

"Brianna. It means strong, virtuous and honorable."

"Perfect for a female warrior. A brave one too."

Pepper cut in. "Hi Brianna, I'm..."

"Virginia Potts, born September 27nth, 1972 in Arlington, Virginia, CEO of Stark Industries and one badass role model. Nice to meet you."

She smiled. "Ditto. Are you injured at all?"

The girls fists lowered. "No, just hungry and exhausted."

"Unacceptable." Said Tony. "What can we get ya?"

"A peanut butter and banana sandwich?" They threw it together and she wolfed it down with a glass of milk. "Have any tater tots?"

"Sure do. Brianna, is there anyone we should call?"

Her scowl returned and an unseen force, swiftly elevated their phones, suspending them inches below the twenty foot ceiling. "Mom's awal, and Daddy's unknown. Alert anyone of my whereabouts and after escaping their captivity, I'll return 'undetected' to enact revenge."

"O-kaaay. Any ideas on the spunk doner, Virginia?"

"Really, Tony?"

"Just sayin'. We promise not to alert anyone without your permission kid, if first, I get a promise or two in return."

"You dare making commands knowing what I'm capable of?"

"Hear me out, Little Warrior. Please?"

She chomped into a tater tot. "I'm listening."

"I've some questions."

"You can ask, but don't expect answers for every one. What else?"

"You stay a while. At least until finding a Tower to call your own."

"No way, Jose. I'm the restless type."

"A month then?"

Stark played the puppy eyes card as Brianna sized him up like a scheming Clint Eastwood might a brazen saloon patron.

"A week and we take it from there."

"Deal."

Once their phones safely landed, she asked to use the bathroom. Pepper lead her to a guest room and was stopped at the door. "Thanks. A little privacy, please?"

After it closed, Tony snuck into the hall and quietly relayed of first encountering the girl. "It's irrefutable. That's Loki's mini me in there."

"Her powers are undeniably similar, but without a paternity test..."

"And how do we achieve that? Shimmy up the bifrost and demand Prince Jezebel see a phlebotomist? Fuck, if they're not related, where 'did' she come from? Maybe we're being invaded by the real Body Snatchers."

"Who've begun with a child in a Captain America hat, they specifically sent here?"

"Have any better conclusions? I suspect she's the burglar too."

"Why, because they like the same sandwich?"

"Think, Butch. If she can break in here, houses are a piece of cake."

"Think, Cootyoodles. Even with powers to hack security systems, how does a child that young burglarize nine houses without being seen, heard or leaving behind any dna?"

"Never underestimate your opponent." As Tony rambled on about examples, she seemed distant. "Butch?"

"I just realized something. Brianna said her Mom was awal. We're avid news watchers and there hasn't been a local Amber Alert for months. What if she isn't looking for her? What if no one is?"

"Perhaps we're both getting carried away and Brianna's…a special breed of Leprechaun that eats feet. We sleep in my suit boots and problem solved."

Pepper smirked. "What exactly happened to you in space? Stay here while I check on her?" Soon she called to him in a whisper. "Come look at your opponent."

Stark's real heart melted when seeing Brianna asleep in the large tub. A bath towel covered her little body and another lay folded beneath her head. "Poor kid. I'll move her to the bed."

"No don't, Tony. I think she crawled in there to feel safe." *****

In the morning, they found an open box of Count Chocula cereal beside a dirty bowl in the kitchen.

"I hadn't opened that yet."

Pepper yawned. "And?"

"It's half empty."

"Awesome. If she's anything like you jacked up on sugar, please hide it?"

He popped a handful into his mouth. "I thought you liked my inner child?"

"Not when he's Dash from the Incredibles. What's that noise?"

"I'll go look." Stark opened Brianna's door to a six inch knife whizzing towards it. "Morn..WHOA!" He closed it within an inch as she aimed another. "DROP the weapon, Little Warrior!"

She casually tossed it onto the bed. "'Sup?"

"'Sup?!? Those aren't toys, young lady! You could've removed half my face!"

"Nah, my aims too polished. See for yourself."

Pepper arrived to find him gawking at the wall. "Hi Brianna. Tony?"

"Iron Man's upset 'cause I short circuited his Arc Reactor."

"Kinda. Feast your eyes on why, Virginia."

A wooden cutting board hung centimeters from the door frame, impaled by eight knives and Brianna sighed. "I'd almost made a perfect x, until interrupted."

"Hey, I knocked..once."

"But didn't wait for permission to enter."

"Let's not argue, hm? Coffee's done, Tony. Would you like a bath, Brianna?"

"With bubbles?"

"Raspberry Sorbet, scented."

Butch later regretted leaving behind the bottle as Little Warrior had a blast, pouncing into the mountainous sea of bubbles the Jacuzzi's jets summoned and soaking the floor. After loaning her a small t shirt and a pair of leggings she secured around her waist, she watched in amazement as like with their phones, an unseen force carefully lowered the cutting board into the girls awaiting arms.

"Ready, Badass."

"Call me Pepper, please?"

"Sure."

Once in the kitchen, Tony learned of her trick. "Just another checkmark on the growing listy poo of spunky d' evidence, Virginia. Thanks kid, I'll take that." The board seemed super glued to the island as he tried apprehending it. "Make that two checkmarks."

The silverware drawer opened, nudging his butt, as Brianna climbed onto a stool with a mischievous smirk and hovered a fist over the knives. "Scooch your booty, or be turned into swiss cheese." Her hand opened, releasing a pea sized light that burst into a mist with the snap of her fingers. As she slid back, it encompassed only the board, individually plucked each knife from its surface, neatly steered them into the drawer and vanished after it closed.

Tony's mind was projecting a vision of Loki on a cheesy, 70's era game show, its animated host announcing; "Our grand prize winner, ladies and gentlemen! The willy nilly, cock weilding, Prince Jezebelll!"

Brianna's voice silenced the fanfare. "I promise not to play with knives anymore."

"Erm..that's great. About those questions, kid."

"Shoot."

"Why the target practice?"

"Saw it on tv once. It kills boredom."

'And a charging rhinoceros, no doubt.' "These balls of light…"

"I call them my magic and maneuvered this one slower, to give you an idea of how they work. Neat, huh?"

"Very and the one used on my suit?"

"Nothing special."

"How do you create them and the unseen force?"

"Classified."

"Have you greater abilities?"

"Enough to make David Copperfield seem a quack."

"How did you break into my tower?"

"Top Secret."

"How did you get here?"

"Walking, buses, taxis, trains and one bicycle."

"By yourself?"

"Mostly."

"How long was your trip?"

"Nine days."

"How did you afford it?"

"My allowance."

"Why the boys clothing?"

"You already know."

"Where are you from?"

"Are you done insulting me?"

He froze. "Excuse me?"

"Nearly every question, except number 5, were tests to see if I'd slip up and surpass revealing the basics. Magic aside, you're trying to assess my intelligence, so here's some insight. Every response minus 'target practice', was either a lie, or half truth. Why? I am never going home and therefore will never reveal more about myself than I decide necessary. If that's unacceptable, tell me now, I'll thank you for the hospitality and be on my way. Oh, and the ball used on your suit? It was bigger, faster, and more powerful out of necessity."

The only person Tony felt might know more about Brianna was Thor, but couldn't risk breaking his promise. She was brilliant, yet seemingly naive to the constant danger she was in. Iron Man would protect her, whilst awaiting further guidance from wherever the cosmos were plotting to chuck it. The heavens, perhaps? The tooth fairy? Captain Kangaroo?

"We'd much prefer you stayed." Said Pepper. "Please don't be angry with Tony? It's difficult not to think of how frantic we'd be if our child went missing."

Brianna's face softened for merely a second, before she re poised herself. "You would?..Look, I'm a survivor, so don't bother worrying about me. May I make my request now?"

"Please do, Little Warrior."

"Your fellow Avenger, Thor. Do you trust him?"

'All this for the God of Thunder?' Thought Stark. "With my life. Is he your favorite and you'd like an autograph, or a picture together?"

"Don't have a favorite Avenger. Just need you introduce us."

'Wut?' "I could, but that means alerting him you're here."

"If you trust him, I trust him."

"I'm grateful for your faith in me. He'll ask why?"

"I need him to set up a second meeting with is brother, Loki."

And there was Tony's guidance. A beam of light, trailing from the realm of Asgard, down through Earth's clouds and settling on P.J.'s prodigy, igniting her aglow.

"Eh he. Why not? Nothin' like those warm and fuzzy feelings amongst kin, right Virginia? Pardon me ladies. Cootyoodles has a call to make and a suit to tweak."

Brianna giggled. "Who gave Iron Man that name?"

"A friend, but he prefers Tony. Feel like watching a movie with a badass role model?"

"Okay, but none of that fairy tail, princessy stuff. Ever see Bram Stoker's Dracula?"

"Isn't that violent for someone your age?"

"Nope and guuurl, what a love story. The blood and guts are awesome too."

[darnloveablecharacters]

Prove Me Wrong, Part Six: Hope for the Future

Series Summary:  Caithwistë, born from the only known pairing of an elf and a dwarf has spent most of her life in hiding. When an old friend, (or a certain meddling wizard) finds her in the woods, everything changes. Now, she will have the chance to prove the world wrong about her value. A ‘The Hobbit’ fanfiction based off of the following imagines from @imaginexhobbit: This One is the basis of the story, and This One and This One will be added in later. If you recognize it, it belongs to Professor Tolkien or Peter Jackson. But, as usual, the story and all of the mistakes are my own!

Prove Me Wrong - Masterlist

Chapter Notes: Did anyone else notice that Bombur never spoke in the movies??? Like at all....

Warnings for this chapter: none

By the time the sun rose the next morning, the Company was up and ready to leave. They lingered close to Hobbiton as long as they could, hoping that Bilbo would change his mind and appear. He never showed though, and a frustrated Thorin barked the order to move out. Caithwistë rode on a gentle bay pony next to Mithrandir, and listened as the dwarves chattered cheerfully. She had taken great care to learn their names, and even joined in the wager of whether the burglar would show or not.

“You seem to be getting on with the Company very well Caithwistë.” Mithrandir said quietly, leaning toward her. “This had already been good for you I think.”

She rolled her eyes, smirking, when they suddenly heard someone yelling.

The Company stopped, and she smiled at the sight of Bilbo running to catch up with them. “I signed it!” He said, slowing to a walk as he reached Balin and held up his contract.

Balin accepted the contract, and pulled out his pocket glass again to inspect it. “Everything appears to be in order.” He said smiling. “Welcome, Master Baggins, to the company of Thorin Oakenshield.”

All of the dwarves cheered, apart from one. Thorin glared toward the hobbit then turned his horse away. “Give him a pony.” He commanded.

The company began to move forward again, and Fili and Kili pulled a protesting Bilbo onto his own pony.

“Come on, Nori, pay up. Go on.” Oín called out.

Bilbo, who was now riding between Caithwistë and Mithrandir asked, “What’s that about?”

Mithrandir smirked. “Oh, they took wagers on whether or not you’d turn up. Most of them bet that you wouldn’t.”

Bilbo glanced between the two of them. “What did you think?”

“Hmmm.” Mithrandir hummed, as they both caught the bags of coins hurled in their direction. “My dear fellow, I never doubted you for a second.” he said, stuffing the sack into his bag.

Caithwistë winked at Bilbo as she pocketed her own sack. “I knew you would come, eventually.”

They traveled at a steady pace after that, and Caithwistë fell back in line next to Bofur. They stopped briefly when Bilbo demanded they turn back so he could retrieve his handkerchief. Bofur chuckled and ripped a piece of his cloak off, tossing it to Bilbo. “Here, use this!”

Bilbo wrinkled his nose at the cloth, making a few of the dwarves laugh, and the company moved forward again.

“Hobbits are odds creatures.” Bofur mused after a while.

“That they are.” Caithwistë said, chuckling.

Bofur glanced at her as if he had suddenly realized who was riding next to him. “I am sorry Miss Caithwistë. I meant no offense by it.”

Caithwistë was confused at first before she realized the error she had nearly made. “There was no offense taken Bofur. I know we must seem odd to you.” She said, hoping that would cover for her small slip.

Bofur smiled, “You seem much different than the hobbits I’ve met.”

“How so?” She asked nervously.

“Well for starters, you wear shoes.” He said gesturing toward her feet.

“Oh.” She said, giggling at his assessment. “I suppose that is odd.”

“Leave the lass alone Bofur.” Dwalin growled as he pulled his pony closer to them. “She’s different, but that makes her better.”

Caithwistë glanced at Dwalin in shock. She had never heard anyone, other than Mithrandir, speak so kindly about her. Abashed, Bofur muttered another apology and urged his pony forward to join his brothers.

“Don’t be too harsh with him Dwalin. He meant nothing by it.” Caithwistë said.

“No, he didn’t. But he knows little of the world, and of common courtesies. He will have to learn.” Dwalin said, glaring at the back of Bofur’s head.

“Thank you Dwalin, for your kindness.”

He grunted, and they rode in silence. She had already learned that Dwalin only spoke when he felt it was completely necessary. That made his coming to her rescue even more significant in her mind.

They made camp for the night at the edge of the rocky cliff. Caithwistë presented Bombur with a couple of rabbits she had picked up along the way. She had been forced to leave the company to find them, as they made too much noise and scared off the wildlife.

“Oh, thank you Miss Caithwistë! These will make an excellent stew.” Bombur said cheerfully, and began cleaning them immediately.

She watched him, fascinated as he worked. He seemed to be the most reserved of the dwarves, but when it came to food his face lit up like nothing she had ever seen before. He made quick work of preparing the rabbits, and excitedly answered Caithwistë’s questions when he threw something in the pot she didn’t recognize.

The Company fell asleep shortly after they ate, exhausted from the days travel and with full bellies. Fili and Kili would take the first watch, so Caithwistë set her bed roll close to the edge of the trees and listened to the sounds of their snoring. She sighed, amused, and already content with the Company. For the first time in her life, she fell asleep with hope for the future.

[kittenwritesstuff]

Until the end starts

Fandom: The Hobbit Pairing: Thorin x (human)reader Genres: angst, fluff Words: 1.304 Summary: While imprisoned in Mirkwood, reader is on the verge of breaking down. Thorin is there to console her, which leads to confessions - requested by Anonymous

The Quest was nothing you were prepared for. You had not expected being chased, captured and the amount of fear you were feeling for most of the time. Surely, you did not imagine you would gain so many new friends and see a hobbit, a member of a race you didn’t believe even existed.

And, frankly, you had not expected to fall in love. And on top of that, with a dwarf.

Thorin Oakenshield was the most stubborn and distant being you had ever met. He barely spoke a word to you, hardly granted you with as much as a gaze but your heart ached for him and you could do nothing about it.

The realization that your feelings for him were more than just a sympathy and compassion came when you made a stop in Rivendel. With full stomach and a sense of relaxation you let your mind catch up with what had occurred. Having allowed that, it dawned on you, leaving you anxious and worried.

What if someone noticed? What if you’d die? What if he would die and you would mourn him for the rest of your life, him and the fact that he passed without knowing he was loved?

Yet, you could not bring yourself to confess. You could not let those three words fall from your mouth without a painful clench on your heart and a sickening feeling in your stomach.

You had quietly suffered sleepless nights and hours of dread while you continued the journey, protecting the dwarves and the hobbit with all your might. Gandalf, your dear friend, not once admitted that he saw a change in your attitude. You knew that he knew – he was a wizard, wizards noticed everything, after all.

Even staying at Beorn’s house was not peaceful enough to make you utter a word. As you were nearing the Mountain, Thorin was becoming more and more focused on accomplishing his goal, unable to see a shift in your demeanor and that you became almost as distant and silent as he was.

You almost cried when Gandalf announced that he had to part ways with you. Mirkwood forest was dark and uninviting and you prayed that you would be lucky enough to pass through it with no bad adventures.

Of course, you were attacked by giant spiders and captured by elves. You should not have been surprised.

And now, after you were thrown in a cell, laughed at for joining the pointless quest and left alone, you were on a verge of breaking down and giving up entirely. To no avail Balin was soothing you with kind words, to no avail was Fili’s attempts to cheer you up.

You curled up in the far corner of the small cell and rested your head on your bent kneels, trying your very best to not burst into tears. In your mind, you were recalling every moment of joy you shared with the Company, every joke you, Fili and Kili made and every time yours and Thorin’s eyes met even for a brief second.

It must have lulled you to sleep, because when you opened your eyes, a figure was leaning against cell’s bars.

“No deal?” you asked miserably, looking up at Thorin, who gave you a stern look.

“I will not bargain with a foul Elven king, who once refused to help us.”

“So, we will not reach the Mountain.”

“We will. Master Baggins-“

“Bilbo is not here. I have not seen him. What if something happened to him in the woods, Thorin? What if we lost him?” you whined, covering your face with your hands, concern and panic overwhelming you.

You heard a shuffling and suddenly Thorin was crouching in front of you, reaching for your palms with a gentle touch.

“Do not fret, he is well. He’s more of a burglar than we may think.”

“But he’s alone in a palace full of guards.”

“Are you worried about every one of us?” Thorin’s voice was surprisingly amused and you furrowed your brows as you stared at him.

“Yes, my dear King, I fear for all of your fates. That’s what friendship means.”

“Y/N,” he started and shifted closer to you, finding it rather hard because of your position. So, he sighed and moved around you, motioning for you to create some space for him against the wall. When you did that, Thorin sat on the ground and gingerly eased you against his chest, wrapping one of his arms over your shoulder, with the other he began stroking your hair. The unexpected tenderness and closeness made you freeze at first but as his caress carried on, you relaxed into it.

“Is that why you have been so reserved lately? Because you’re scared?”

“Aye. And you are not?”

“If I am honest, the closer we get to Erebor, the more frightened I become. I never expected we’d encounter so much.”

“We almost died so many times…” you mused and Thorin nodded, letting out a soft hum.

“But we’re alive. And we will survive, Y/N. We’ll defeat Smaug and the Mountain will be ours again.”

“You sound very sure, Thorin.”

“I need to believe in our luck, otherwise I would give up even before the quest started.”

You had no answer for that, so you remained silent, choosing to simply enjoy Thorin’s presence and the way his fingers brushed through your hair, your fear slowly ebbing away.

He started to hum a tune, unknown to you and you assumed it was a Dwarfish song. It was slow and calming and Thorin’s deep voice only made it more beautiful.

“I can’t even imagine what would happen if one of use fell. I only know that I’d be unspeakably heartbroken if you died. I accepted that I could die throughout the journey but if you did – that would be worse. I know that we don’t speak much but I grew rather fond of being around you, Thorin, even when you’re quiet and lost in your thoughts.”

His hand in your hair stopped, falling eventually on your shoulder as his chest rose with a deep inhale.

“Thought of losing you is what I can’t stand,” you carried on, not wanting to pause, “I could not… I didn’t mean to love you. I didn’t plan to. But it happened and I will not see you dead. I will not bear it.”

“Y/N?” he whispered, reaching to touch your cheek but you flinched away, ashamed of saying so much. The tension you felt and that serene moment between you and Thorin lured you into confessing and now, now you started to regret it.

“Please, look at me,” he pleaded, his voice soft and you turned your head to a side to fulfill his ask.

“If you feel guilty for your feelings for me, then so do I for my feelings for you. I’ve tried to fight it, but I cannot. And I don’t want to. I didn’t tell, simply because I am not of race of Men, and how could I expect you to love me back?”

“But I do,” you found yourself admitting quietly and Thorin’s lips curled into a small smile.

“I know it now.”

“How long will it take for you to kiss me? Or should I wait until we are imprisoned again?” you chuckled, watching his face as he cackled, a sound you never thought you would hear. It filled you with happiness and relief.

Thorin said nothing, yet his hands cradled your face, thumbing at your cheeks as he leaned in and brushed your lips with his two, three times before he pressed them firmly against yours, swallowing your gleeful yelp.

And all you could think of was that Bilbo wouldn’t free you too soon. You needed to make up for the time you and Thorin wasted. 

[lexiseigneur]

Chapter fourteen: The last Sun Hunter

Ao3

It was reassuring finally knowing how she was going to die. Speculating constantly on the subject for the past year had been a burden. And part of her since the day she had met Joshua had been convinced that living in the bunker was just delaying the inevitable. One way or another, she would perish as a consequence of the Strigoi plague. How ironic that her own actions would precipitate that event.

Quinlan’s memory replayed over and over again. An old woman with compassionate eyes had explained to him how his essence was connected to his progenitor’s. Her name had been Ancharia. Lexi had also gleaned Quinlan’s affection and guilt. She had no intention of asking more about that woman at this very moment. It had been difficult enough to convince her companion to leave that basement. For the first time since she had met him atop that hill, the Dhampir appeared defeated. And Lexi was acutely aware that this was her fault. However, as much as she wished she could alleviate his suffering, she did not regret what she had done. Together, they would end the nightmare and their reward for this coming sacrifice was their time in the Bond.

Strigoi roamed the streets of the city. Having stayed put the entire night had been a shortsighted decision. The heaviness of Quinlan’s thoughts seeped into her mind. There was little she could do as sharing joyful memories required focus. That concentration she needed to dedicate to their course through the infested town. The creatures were relentlessly looking for the Born and had spread in the suburbs. Sprinting from shadow to shadow, the couple crossed Santa Fe and entered the parking lot where the SUV was hidden. It stood anonymous amongst a quantity of other abandoned vehicles. Lexi and Quinlan had consumed her last reserve of blood before leaving the house. Both were getting thirsty. As soon as they drove away, they shared another ration. In Quinlan’s cooler, a single pack remained.

“I burglarized a donation center a week ago but my provisions did not last long.” Quinlan informed her.

“We will have to do that again.”

“Indeed, but there are more pressing matters. The sun will soon come. So far south, it would be judicious to seek shelter.”

Telephone poles cast short shadows beside the road. Around them, arid planes spread toward the rocky hills in the distance. Even with her hood, her glasses and the cover of the vehicle, she grew uncomfortable. How she hated that sun now.

“There are buildings ahead.” Lexi noticed.

Quinlan nodded and accelerated. A forlorn gas station stood amongst a few modest houses. This had not been anyone’s home at least. One of the buildings had once been a seedy looking bar. They hid the SUV behind it. No need to attract the attention of any passing vehicle, however rare they might be. On the back seat, under the near-empty cooler, were half a dozen books. All had flowing lava or exploding mountains on their covers. Lexi did not want to look at them so she gathered the volumes and shoved them into the metal trunk. Then they took the precious devices and entered the bar through its back door. The small space was filled with round tables and at the back, a vast counter spread across the length of the room. They deposited their cargo on the dusty wood of the bar.

“If there is still any fuel here, we might be able to drive straight back to the bunker.” Said Quinlan. He dripped a few drops from their last bag to the brains in the jamming devices. Worms plucked hungrily at the red blooms.

“About that…”

She shared the memories of Laura and Emma but not of the two men. Quinlan turned slowly to her, bewildered.

“You did what?”

“I’ve helped people who needed shelter more than I did.”

“You’ve compromised our base of operations.”

“Quinlan, when you left I doubt you planned on coming back. You relinquished your claim on that place.”

His brow was suddenly crossed with deep lines.

“Did you not plan on going back yourself?”

“I wished it but I knew it was unlikely. I thought you might have found the Master by now.”

Quinlan grunted as that remark. Then he shook his head in confusion.

“Did you not plan on going back after defeating him?”

Lexi did not reply. Even with her Dhampir strength, she had been convinced that the Master would kill her. Ever since she had seen those red eyes fixated on her, it has seemed immutable. Quinlan scrutinized her expression.

“You knew nothing of my plan or of our deadly connection to him, but still, you did not expect to survive this?”

“No, I guess I did not. Not truly.”

The muscles of his jaw jutted out.

“Why are you so willing to die?” There was anger in that thought.

“I am not willing. I accept that possibility because I do not see the point in rebelling against it. I am tired of being scared.”

He shook his head and turned away from her.

“This is my fault. I should not have involved you in that war.”

Lexi sighed and put a hand on his shoulder.

“I had accepted that I might die before we even met. When I crawled on that hill to help you, I was quite sure it would be the end for me.”

She leaned to look at him and he avoided her gaze.

“Quinlan, helping you that day was my choice. Just like what is happening right now is my choice. By blaming yourself, you diminish the value of those decisions. You act as if I could not knowingly lay down my life. As if I had no agency.”

In a blur, he turned back toward her.

“No…I did not mean that.”

“Please, do not regret involving me because then we would have never known each other.”

The corners of his lips lifted in a melancholic grin.

“I will never regret knowing you, Lexi. I cherish every moment.”

“Even that day?”

In the recollection she shared, Quinlan had just finished drinking two deer and she was screaming at him. The Dhampir had sprinted to her and growled menacingly. He laughed and pulled her close.

“So you wanted to shoot me?”

“I did. I knew it wouldn’t kill you and I was quite mad.”

“I pray the Gods that I never anger you again.”

This remark made her cringe in remorse. Her rage had already been costly for two humans. Lexi bit her lip and looked up into his eyes.

“I killed two men that day. When I gave the mother and daughter the map to the bunker.”

“How?"

She showed him and his mouth contorted in disgust.

“They deserved it.”

“Did they really?”

“Is there anything more repugnant than attacking a mother and her child?”

Lexi could not immediately think of other such scenarios. But surely, if Quinlan forgave her, then she could forgive herself as well?

“You gave them your map…”

“I did.”

“Lexi, how did you find me?”

She chuckled. As if he did not know.

“The vast place! Where the Bond is! I can see you there.”

“I am afraid I do not grasp the meaning of your response.”

The woman caressed his temple.

“Inside your mind. Look for the place where you can hear me.”

“I believe you might have had more practice in such endeavors.”

Of course, she had. Already as a child, she had begun treating her mind like a place she could manipulate.

“I’m going to hide and remain quiet. Look for the beacon in the lightless world.”

“Wait…I do not think I can do that.”

Her smile turned into a smirk.

“You? I thought you could accomplish anything you wanted. Maybe I was wrong…” She said out loud.

Quinlan rattled and uncovered his sharp teeth. Excited by this little game, she kissed his cheek and disappeared.

“I will find you, you little vixen. And when I do…”

Lexi repressed a laugh as she hid. The building had a crawl space at its very top and she crouched there. Curious of his progress, she dropped into the grey pool. Inside the boundless space, Quinlan was close. The cocoon of brightness was vibrant and so was her own light. How could he not see it? After several minutes, the cocoon cracked open. Fascinated, she observed as his glow expanded. Intense as a sun which did not burn. It was towering and dazzling. Lexi suddenly felt very small next to his gigantic presence. In a matter of seconds, he would perceive her. Like lances, beams of his brightness pierced the space around.

Dread squeezed her insides. Behind him, like a moth seeking a bulb, a red stain crept. It was blind and did not shine. The thing snapped in out and out of existence, reappearing near the spots where Quinlan’s light had shone brightest. It was getting closer to him. The abomination did not belong here. Lexi rushed back to the physical world and screamed.

“QUINLAN! STOP!”

She sprinted to him and was met with deep confusion.

“What is the matter?”

“You cannot project yourself like this. He knows your light. When you reach too far, he feels you.” She said.

Quinlan had not immersed inside the vastness the way she did, he had expanded the glow of his soul. His method was clearly dangerous. Scared for the safety of the Bond, she returned to her mind. Everything was normal. The stain was gone and Quinlan’s soul was back into its firm cocoon. She breathed.

“It’s safe. We’re safe.”

“This means I cannot find you as you did.”

“If need be, I will find you again.”

“It will be one hour before the sun is covered. When that time comes, let us not dally.”

Lexi nodded. The toxic light provided protection but they needed to remain careful. So they waited. And when the sun started to wane, they knew they had made a huge mistake. Two clouds of dust lifted in the horizon. One came from Santa Fe and the other from the direction they had intended to take. They blocked the only road from both sides.

“They are semitrailer trucks.” Said Quinlan after focusing on their sounds.

She concentrated as well. Besides the powerful engines, there was nothing there.

“I cannot hear anything inside.”

“It means the drivers are not human.”

Lexi growled loudly. Strigoi did not have a heartbeat.

“How many? I cannot hear anything besides the truck themselves.”

“I believe they are attempting to camouflage their sounds.”

They had timed the assault to coincide with the arrival of the ochre light. The Dhampir were trapped between the two incoming trucks. Terrain east and west became rapidly too rocky for the SUV to manage.

“Shall we run?”

Quinlan was still focusing deeply and a satisfied smile appeared on his face.

“No need. There are just a few dozen of them.”

“Hum…”

“The Master did not have time to gather more. We are the lucky ones this time.”

The self-assured Dhampir checked his Micro Uzis. His ammunition was limited to what was left in their magazines but that did not appear to bother him.

“I can deal with them myself. Please remain inside. Do not let them see you…this time.”

Memories of that catastrophic night surged into her mind.

“There are even more than last time. I will fight with you.”

“It really is not necessary. Your change gives us an edge and it would be foolish to waste it. You must keep out of sight.”

“I trust your abilities, I really do, but you almost died last time.”

His gaze shifted and he needlessly checked his magazines again.

“There is something you are not telling me.” She pushed.

They could not lie in the Bond, but they were not obligated to speak.

“That night, I was distracted because you were there. I would have let that Strigoi find any other human associate. It would have mattered very little to me if the Master saw them.”

She growled and gripped the edges of the bar. Quinlan had nearly died because of her. Because she had been a liability. The wood splintered around her fingers. From now on, she would never be a burden to him. Like he had said, she was now “an edge”. Lexi relaxed. She had to remain hidden not because of her weakness but purely for tactical reasons. This she could accept.

“At least finish the blood.” She said.

“Very well.”

After his meal, the Dhampir removed his coat and goggles and put his holsters and the sword sheath directly above his vest.

“This time I enter the battle with the reassurance that if one of them finds you, it will die swiftly.”

Lexi felt reinvigorated by his faith. She observed from a window as he walked into the ochre light. The Dhampir stood on the asphalt, mocking one of the nearing trucks then turning to also taunt the other. Lexi snorted. Both large vehicles stopped askew to block the road completely. Their windows were tinted, protecting the drivers from harmful rays. It would not protect them from the lone warrior. Strigoi poured out of the bellies of the metal beasts. Crimson eyes jumped from creature to creature.

INVICTUS! They screeched in unison and that display made Quinlan laugh.

Like a flock of starlings, they moved and surrounded him.

“Beloved, please duck.”

She obeyed and instantly the rapid fire of automatic weapons drowned the snarls of the Strigoi army. Two rounds pierced the windows above her. Most landed inside white flesh with satisfying thuds. The bullets would be insufficient and the sword would have to sing. When the Uzis stopped firing, Lexi resumed her observation. The dance had begun. Red eyes blinked everywhere and then closed forever when metal flashed.

Quinlan flew among them. As her Dhampir eyes managed to follow, she was taken aback by the gracefulness of his gestures. Notwithstanding her new abilities, she could not move like this yet. On the horizon above Santa Fe, more dust was rising.

“More are coming. I should join you and finish this quickly.”

“No! Your existence is a weapon! We must keep it a secret!”

He was right. Her new strength gave them an advantage intrinsically but also because the Master could not predict it. Quinlan was healthy and still fighting with mesmerizing grace. When she reached through the Bond tentatively, she could perceive his confidence and…his pleasure at slicing unencumbered. Falling into savagery was delightful. As her own heart ached to enter the battle, she understood.

When the approaching vehicles got close enough she focused on the sounds within them. Ten heartbeats rang clear. The engines were small compared to the trucks. She doubted more Strigoi accompanied the humans. Slowly, Quinlan was tiring. Should he falter, even for an instant, she would be at his side.

“There are ten humans coming.” She warned.

“Inconsequential.”

Twenty Strigoi stood strong when three SUVs arrived at the level of the parked truck. The cars stopped in the dirt on each side of the road. Humans emerged from their sunroofs and she promised to herself that should any of them shoot Quinlan, she would drink them dry. That animosity permeated through her self-control.

“I know. Let me contend with them. Everything is well.” Soothed Quinlan.

She did not protest but braced herself when the men pulled high caliber automatic weapons upon the vehicles. Quinlan started whizzing about, making himself a difficult target. Then a loud voice boomed above the Strigoi cacophony.

“QUINLAN! GET OUT OF THERE!”

“Huh?” Said Lexi to herself.

The warrior sprinted to the SUVs and the Strigoi followed. But he was faster. As soon as his silhouette joined the men, they opened fire on the swarm. Limbs and torsos exploded at the contact of the powerful projectiles. All was over in seconds.

“What is happening?” She thought.

“The last Sun Hunter.”

The image of a young man appeared in her mind and with that, the respect of one warrior to another. Then a name: Augustin Elizalde. She was still unsure what he meant by Sun Hunter but at least, this was not an enemy. Relieved, she concentrated on their spoken exchange and watched.

“I fucking knew this mess was for you!”

The man jumped off the car roof.  He thrust a palm toward the Dhampir who accepted the handshake.

“We’ve been tracking you for two weeks, man!”

There was a murmur of agreement in the small crowd.

“You have?”

“You thought nobody would notice a ghost making Strigoi sashimi all over the place?”

Quinlan was embarrassed, she could sense it. He did not like being exposed in such an unexpected way.

“I guess I cannot be surprised that humans might also have…taken notice.”

Gus laughed and added:

“When we arrived in Santa Fe we had missed you by less than a day…I was pissed. But then, some Strigs started gathering and, we’re no fools. We knew they were coming for your white ass.”

A hint of irritation at the colorful language. Lexi giggled.

“Why have you come to find me?”

“I thought you were dead since the bomb. Do you think we want to live the rest of our lives like rats? We want the Master dead."

The other men nodded and some threw words of agreement. Quinlan paused.

“The Sun Hunter and his confederates would make formidable allies. He had proven useful in the past.”

“Can we trust them?” Asked Lexi.

“Since we all share the same goal, I believe we have little choice.”

“Then I’m coming.”

He was unsure but she was not. She walked out of the house, hoodless.

“You better introduce me before they start shooting again.”

“Mister Elizalde, my companion will join us now.”

“Your what now?”

Lexi closed the distance between the bar and Quinlan in seconds. Some of the men jumped back in surprise and the one standing closest to Gus positively screamed.

“MADRE DE DIOS!”

She stood by the Dhampir's towering silhouette with a hand on his back. His body radiated intense heat due to the recent battle.

“What’s this?” Gus asked, less surprised than the other men.

The olive-skinned fighter was rather handsome with his dark eyes and high cheekbones. Despite his agreeable features, the tattoos on his neck and arms made him look fierce.

“My name is Lexi.” She said and looked at each member of that troop. Not a single woman and they seemed like they had seen better days. All were unshaven and one had a terrible scar across his face.

“Nice to meet you, Mister Elizalde.” She added and offered Gus a hand which he shook. This was the first time a human looked at her new face. His gaze was confused but fearless. She grinned.

“Nice to meet you too, huh, ma’am.”

Then he turned to Quinlan.

"So you have a sister?”

"Oh hell no." She thought.

“Revolting.”

Her smile morphed into a grimace. Quinlan must have reacted similarly because Gus’ face transformed with the realization that their relationship was of another nature. He nodded and waved a dismissive hand. The men had gone over their surprise and were detailing the two Dhampir. Their eyes switched from Quinlan to Lexi, comparing. Some exchanged looks and there were discreet smirks. The gang judged she was not as impressive as Quinlan was. They had just seen him fight after all, while she cowered within the safety of the bar. Still being regarded as weak was bothersome.

“I’ve got like a thousand questions but I think we should bounce first.” Said the Sun Hunter.

“Agreed. We have our own vehicle.”

They made arrangements and soon it was decided that their own SUV would lead. Gus and his cousin, Raul, would ride with them. The other eight would remain in contact via radios. Before departing, they checked the fuel tanks of the deserted station. They were empty. Not ten minutes of driving later, Gus could no longer hold back.

“So there are two of you, huh?”

His dark eyes observed them briefly in the rearview mirror before returning to the road ahead. Lexi reached for Quinlan’s mind and they exchanged words in the span of a few seconds.

“Does he know how you were born?”

“No. I never told him.”

“We cannot tell him of my origins either. For that matter for now on, the story of your creation needs to be kept secret.  If I figured out this out thanks to you, others could as well. We don’t need another Eldritch Palmer.”

“What should I say?”

“That you were born from a Dhampir mother and father.”

“Why should he believe that?”

“Because you’re going to sell it and so will I. If we are lucky he might never ask. From now on, our story is that our species is a cousin to the Strigoi and the Master hunted us to extinction. We cannot infect humans, ever. This is our taking revenge for the genocide of our own.”

“Very well.”

Quinlan turned to Gus who was completely unaware of the exchange which had just taken place.

“So it seems.” He replied.

“Hey, lady, why did it take so long for you to climb into the ring?”

It was lady now? Urg.

“What makes you think I haven’t been plotting from the shadows this whole time?”

For their lie to work, she would need to suggest that she was much older than she really was.

“Really?”

“I only come out now because events are ripe for a final blow.”

“I like the sound of that. But then what are you doing on the other side of the fucking country? The Master is still in New York.”

“Ha! What indolence! He basks in his perceived victory.”

Quinlan was shaking from the revelation and the remark had burst through the Bond.

“How can you be so sure about that?” Lexi asked.

“I’ve got some eyes all over the place. We cornered the black market in the city. And a few of my little birdies told me that Eichhorst is established there…I figured…”

“You thought well. The lapdog would be reluctant to leave his master’s side.” Said Quinlan.

While they spoke about the probability that the Master did indeed reside in New York, Lexi’s brain was bubbling. This information and their new associates changed everything. Even more than her new body. The outlines of a plan, insane but elegant, formed. It would be dangerous and involve her meeting the Master while shackled but it could work. She shared it in the Bond. Quinlan snarled and turned to her.

“You are NOT doing this. I will not allow it.”

Lexi was disappointed. They were past this, or so she had thought. The rage which had carried her through her transformation came back. It had not disappeared at all, it had merely been repressed. Quinlan startled and pulled away from her.

“Mister Elizalde, would you be so kind as to park at your earliest convenience?” She said.

Her voice was smooth ice.

“You got it, ma’am.”

As soon as the vehicle stopped, she exited it and Quinlan followed. They were on a deserted highway. Her back turned to him, she cracked her neck and assessed the overwhelming urge to draw her machete and jump him. She ran her fingers through white and brown hair. No. This was not something she could do. Not for lack of desire or ability but because it would be wrong. She could not resent him for depriving her of her agency using his force then turn around and do the same. Love could not be corrupted by violence every time a problem arose. They were adults. Equals. They could use their words to resolve their problems, even those that drove them crazy. Especially those that drove them crazy. Lexi had no intention of being in a relationship as dysfunctional as her parent’s marriage. Even if it lasted only a short time.

"We just discussed this, Quinlan."

"It is nonsensical to put yourself in so much danger."

"There is no way to face the Master safely. Even the best case scenario means we die."

"If you give him the opportunity, he will inflict upon you a fate worse than death."

"Yes...but I accept that possibility."

"I do not."                                                                                                                

The wings of her small nose flared.

"Am I a doll to you that you can prop up as you wish and toss in a box when you are scared I might break?"

"What a preposterous analogy."

"Isn't that what you did when you left me behind?"

His scowl was almost savage.

"All I wanted was for you to be safe. You would have never accepted to let me leave. To let me walk to my death alone."

"No, I would not have."

"Then I was right, wasn't I?"

"No. You were so completely wrong."

His hands closed into tight fists and he looked away.

"You broke your promise." She said.

That made him wince.

"How can I trust you if every time you are afraid, you tread on my consent like this?"

"I did it so you would be safe, not to hurt you."

"You used your superior strength to crush my will."

He faced her and even in the shadow of his hood, his horror was evident. But his fear was still clear in the Bond, stronger than his regret. He still thought himself justified. This was not something Lexi could tolerate. It was crucial for him to comprehend how much his actions had diminished her.

"I will show you something. It will hurt."

He nodded. For the first time since her transformation, Lexi reached for the dark room. That cramped place was different. More tangible. She opened her mind’s eye and found herself in a basement. It was dark and dusty. A flight of rotting wooden stairs led to a closed door and at ceiling level, on the wall opposite the steps, was a small window. Through it, she could see the lightless vastness and Quinlan's soul. On shelves covering the brick walls rested all the monsters she had locked here. Each was contained in a jar and as the worms had, they moved as she moved. So her mind had indeed changed as well. It was more solid, more real. Now that it inhabited the vastness, it had gained substance.

In that dark room, she could not hear Quinlan and that loneliness was strangling her. Even as she resented him, she wanted his presence. But Lexi had to bear that suffering just a little longer.

There was no need to peruse through the imprisoned memories. It had been the second one to ever become a permanent resident of this dark room. The dustiest shelf had to be the oldest. When she took the second jar from the left, she knew she was correct.

Holding it with only the tip of her fingers, she climbed up the stairs. Laid before the door were empty cardboard boxes and she grinned joylessly. Those were for the thoughts she only pushed in the room temporarily. She twisted the handle and Quinlan's voice immediately echoed.

"Lexi?"

It was good to hear him. She hesitated as she pulled the door shut behind her. This was not a memory she wanted to relive ever again. Never before had she retrieved a recollection from the dark room. There was a good reason those tormenting nightmares were locked away from the rest of her psyche. Freeing one was a terrifying prospect.

Now she advanced in that house which was her mind. It was cozy, with old wooden furniture and a lot of clutter. She stared at the flashes inside the glass. Then she closed her eyes and smashed the jar on the floor.

 Lexi was shaking. She had done something mightily stupid. When a neighbor had praised her father in front of the congregated church for his donations and for being a pillar of their community, she had snorted. It had been only a month since she had slapped that Bible out her mother's grasp and since then she had thought many times about her father's violence. She despised him and that feeling had shone through at the worst moment. People had turned to her briefly when she had made that idiotic noise. And her father's eyes had stared at her just long enough to make her understand what type of punishment laid ahead.

They drove back home. She jumped out of the car as it parked, rushed inside and attempted to get to her bedroom. But her legs were small and his were long and far-reaching. A clammy hand closed on her nape and yanked her back before she could climb up the stairs. This time, his rage was focused solely on her. She had humiliated him. Tarnished his impeccable image. When he grabbed her shirt and slapped her hard she knew this time would be different because her affront had been unforgivable. So she did something she had never done before.

She fought back.

Screaming, she clawed at his hands, kicked and even tried to bite. But it was pointless. Lexi was just a child and even as she struggled to protect her body from his violence, she was aware of her helplessness. Her defiance angered him further. The punishment would only be more severe. His hand closed on the small neck and his fist connected with her cheekbone. Immediately, her body went limp and she fell. A ringing vibrated in her head and she could not control her muscles. The girl wondered if that was what dying felt like. Her father walked away and since the danger had passed, her mother came to her help. She cursed her own weakness and drifted.

 Her real eyes opened and she chocked on the desperation of her younger self. Quinlan clawed at his temples as if attempting to remove the memory. He grunted when it stopped pouring through the Bond. Lexi focused intensely to leash that memory again. The dark room swallowed it whole, more easily than it would have with her human mind.

With trembling fingers, Quinlan caressed his cheekbone. Had he ever felt that vulnerability? It was a special type of feeling, helplessness at the hand of those who ought to be protecting.

“I understand now. Please, forgive me.”

His pain was digging into her deeply. It was overwhelming guilt. The emotions twisted her stomach and made her dry-heave.

All the moments she could recall where her heart had swelled with love for him, she gathered and applied onto his distress like a balm. Quinlan sighed in relief and shared his own. For an instant, Lexi saw a polar bear, heard the racing of a heart and observed herself trying to muffle it. Already then, he hoped and desired. Lexi embraced him and they found each other’s lips.

“Did we stop just so you two could fondle each other?”

Lexi startled. The presence of the humans had slipped her mind. Quinlan rattled and glanced at a confused but entertained Gus.

“We have to tell him about our…mode of communication. It’s necessary for the plan anyway.” She said.

“Agreed.”

The couple re-entered the car in the blink of an eye.

“Holy crap!” Yelped Raul, still in the passenger seat.

“I’m sorry! Didn’t mean to startle you.” Said Lexi with an apologetic smile.

“It’s ok, ma’am.”

She scowled. Gus sat behind the wheel again.

“Call me Lexi, please. You too…Gus.”

Raul nodded but still appeared worried. The Sun Hunter turned briefly and gave her a nod of agreement.

“Mister Elizalde, we can leave now. We have a plan to discuss.”

“Let’s hear it.”

“First we have to clarify something.” Said Lexi.

The couple exchanged a look. How would they react to this information?

“When we stopped, Quinlan and I were discussing an issue.”

“Huh…no…you guys just stood there then smooched.”

The woman laughed at his choice of words.

“We do not require spoken words to communicate.”

Raul’s eyes widened but he stared ahead. Gus shrugged.

“Yeah…The Ancients did that too. At least you guys can also speak. What about the plan?”

“It doesn’t bother you?” Asked Lexi.

“Nah, ma…Lexi”

She beamed at him and via the rearview mirror, the Sun Hunter returned the smile.

“To make things simple: we have the means to incapacitate the Master temporarily. Machines that will mess with his brain. But for that, we need to know in advance where he will be. We also need him to be in sight and unlikely to flee.” Started Lexi.

“Ok. How you gonna do that?”

“Lexi will be bait. The Master thinks she is human and through the years, he has taken immense pleasure in killing the humans I cared about.”

This was what he had objected to.

“Why would he think she is human?” Raul turned to them and detailed Lexi once more.

"We have hidden my appearance and masked my Dhampir scent. The Master knows that we are together but not of my nature."

“If the Master’s people capture Lexi, he will have her brought to him immediately.”

Gus shook his head.

"Yeah, how you gonna hide that she ain't human then?”

"One of your men will pass as my captor. My face doesn't need to be identified. The human scent we used would be enough."

“In that moment just before she is lead to him. I will seek a Strigoi and make a deal with the Master.”

“Huh…”

“I will offer my life against hers.”

They were certain that the Master would not resist the appeal of destroying his sanity before killing him. And the best way would be to hurt Lexi while Quinlan watched.

“That sounds like a shit plan.” Said Gus.

“That’s when you and your men become important. You need to make sure the devices I built surround us and are functioning. Once the Master, Quinlan and I are in the same location, you will activate them. Then, we will destroy his body and take the worm.” She said.

“The what?” Asked Gus.

“His essence. What jumps from body to body.” Clarified Quinlan.

"What the hell? He can do that?" Asked Raul.

"So could the Ancients but this ability was not openly advertised for obvious reasons."

"Yeah, those dicks weren't exactly the sharing type." Said Gus.

“Then we will flee with the worm and dump it into an exploding volcano.” Concluded Lexi.

Gus laughed. His eyes appeared in the rearview mirror.

“You guys have to be joking. Volcanoes don’t fucking blow on command.”

“No, they don’t, Mister Elizalde. Unfortunately, while we know for sure a nuclear explosion will destroy the Master, so does he. In the past year, he has taken possession of all those weapons. However, such natural explosions are just as destructive. Sometimes more so."

"What about just filling him with silver?" Asked the Sun Hunter.

"It would hurt him but not kill him. Even direct sunlight did not destroy him. His body, the outer shell, would just be discarded." Replied Quinlan.

"Crap." Said Gus. He and his cousin exchanged tense looks.

“But he cannot hide entire mountains away. And volcanoes give warning signs. There are monitoring systems for active ones around the world. We need to find a way to tap into those systems, then when one is about to go off, we will set our plan in motion.” Said Quinlan.

He had obviously already read some of the books she had put away.

“How the fuck are we gonna tap into those systems?” Said Raul.

Quinlan opened his mouth to answer but Gus cleared his throat.

“I’ve got a guy for this type of shit.” Said the Sun Hunter.

“You’ve got a guy for volcanoes?” Asked Raul.

“No, dumbass. I’ve got a guy who hid a lot of the brainiacs the Strigoi wanted dead. If any of them know of this volcano system bullshit, then the Librarian will bring them to me.”

Gus nodded to himself and bit his lip.

“I’ve been sponsoring this Librarian dude. I wanted info on the Master and he’s been tracking historians and other smart ones for me. But after the bomb went off, they were the first to be rounded up and slaughtered. We never got much intel that way."

"Historians were executed?" Whispered Lexi.

"Not officially but we ain't stupid. Basically all leaders and anyone with two brains cells to rub together disappeared quickly."

Lexi closed her eyes in mourning for those who died for the crime of carrying the accumulated knowledge of humankind.

"This is what he does. He steals knowledge and memory. What makes a person a person. Now he will accomplish that at the scale of an entire species." Said Quinlan.

Raul leaned toward Gus and murmured: "You think they are chatting right now?"

"He wants to erase humans. Domination is not enough." Said Lexi and she shook her head. How would humanity ever bounce back from this?