HI! HERE'S A LONGER CHAPTER! LET ME KNOW HOW I'M DOING! :)

Bold Italic~ Black Speech

Italic~ Elvish

Pacing back and forth was the only thing keeping me from going insane.

King Thranduil and I came to an agreement. He would part ways with the Dwarves, much to his disappointment, and I would be his to call upon if ever there was a need...and of course he wanted his sparkling jewels. There was no getting around that.

Now I merely had to wait for the Dwarves to be set free. The King allowed them stay, if only for a few days, along with gear and weapons for the journey to Erebor. I was surprised by the gesture of good faith, but it worried me that I'd yet seen my company. My merry bunch of Dwarven kin had yet to be released from their prisons.

I shuffled my feet across the stone ground, the dress I wore getting caught beneath my slippers a few times. It was frustrating having to wait.

"This is taking too long..." I bit the nail on my thumb and scrunched my face in irritation.

"Lass, you just need patience. They'll bring them in when ready." Gregor sat in this small hall, sipping from a goblet of silver while leaning forward on the carved table.

"It's been two hours, Gregor! What could possibly be taking them so much time?"

Agitation was rearing it's ugly head while nerves made my stomach flip. My friends thought I was dead...This reunion was sure to be an emotional one. Mixtures of feelings were bubbling within me and I couldn't hold them off for long.

I just...wanted to lay my eyes on them once more.

The handle to the hall opened with a groan and I whipped my head around so fast I could feel the strain of muscles tighten.

"My Lady." It was just another handmaiden bringing carafe of Elven wine. Gregor's been indulging in it's finery since we'd arrived.

"Oh. Thank you." I released the air in my lungs and turned away from the she-elf as she set the bottle upon the wooden table.

With the door open, I could hear the laughter of Elves down the corridor. There seemed to be much merriment in their voices. It was rather loud for Elves...

"Sounds like one hell of a party." Gregor observed offhandedly.

The She- Elf smiled and bowed respectfully. "It is Mereth Nuin Giliath."

Cold washed over me.

"What's that?" Gregor asked with interest ignoring the obvious panic attack I was having just a few feet away.

"The Feast of Starlight."

"Hm," Hummed Gregor, "Sounds encha-."

"HOW COULD I BE SO STUPID?"

The sudden outburst caught both Gregor and the handmaiden off guard, looking scrupulously in my direction.

"What are you shouting about, lass? It's just a party."

As I turned to face him, the streams of tears brought confusion on Gregors face. He leapt up from his seat to bound over with heavy footfall. His hands reached my shoulders and he peered down at me.

"What's wrong?"

"We need to find them...before they get away."

Gregor understood that I knew much about the future...so his only conclusion was I'd incompetently forgot one minor detail.

More than minor.

Gregor swiveled his head around to look at the maid.

"Where are they keeping the Dwarves?" It was a command from a large man...and it caused the she-elf to step back before answering.

"Uh, they keep prisoners in the cells below...but they're well guarded..."

"We have to go!" I pushed passed Gregor and picked up my dress. If there was ever a time I needed to fly, it would be now.

My legs carried me out of the hall and down the corridor, looking for stairs that led to the bowels of the cave. Behind me, the loud boots of Gregor caught up and rounded the corner with me.

"Do you know where you're going?"

"Absolutely not!"

"Tch. Didn't think this through did ya, lass?"

"Not the time, Gregor!" My annoyance laced with worry and he only chuckled at that.

"Listen, you're too slow. I'll find them." He began ripping off his top as he ran with me, throwing it to the ground as we passed a few lady-elves. They screamed in surprise while stepping out of the way, the shirt landing at their feet.

"What am I looking for?" He ground at while trying to unbuckle his belt.

"Dwarves!"

"I mean-Damn it, lass! You know what I mean!" His teeth were beginning to grow sharp, his face contorting slightly.

"Search by smell. They're probably the smelliest bunch in this entire place. There should be a hobbit with them as well." Then I remembered, "The cellars! Find the cellars! Should be loads of wine and barrels. They're going to use them to escape."

"Perfect." He grinned and jumped forward, completing his transformation with a howl as he bounded away on all fours.

"Don't hurt them! Just stop them!"

I wasn't sure if he heard me. The moment he took off, I was left alone, trying to catch up with shape-shifting wolf, a company of Dwarves, and an angry Captain of the Guard.

How could I forget?

Bilbo led the Dwarves down flight after flight of stairs, delving deeper into the stronghold. They were lucky they hadn't run into any guards yet. He thanked the stars for allowing them such good fortune considering the loud lot following closely.

He had no trouble getting around with his magic ring, but with these bumbling oafs making all sorts of noise, he was surprised they hadn't been tossed in a cell yet.

In no short time, Bilbo brought them to their predetermined destination. He'd scoped this place out for days, trying to figure out the best course of action to escape.

His answer came in the form of barrels. It would lead them right out of here.

Softly, he descended the stairs with the company close behind. They were almost home free.

A pair of elves passed out at a nearby table gave him second thoughts, but he nonetheless pressed on. They'd obviously partook in the Elvish wine. If they woke up, there would be a whole new set of problems.

"This way." He waved for the Dwarves to follow behind him. "Come on."

Kili was the first to step off the stairs and immediately regret having followed Bilbo. He grimaced and looked back at the others.

"I don't believe it. We're in the cellars!"

Bofur was just as annoyed as Kili, turning to Biblo. "You were supposed to be leading us out, not further in!"

"I know what I'm doing." Bilbo argued, only to be shushed by Bofur.

They filed in, one at a time. Fili followed closely behind Kili, taking in the cellar and its contents. Why did Bilbo lead them down here of all places? If they were going to get out, they needed to go up, not down.

While he wouldn't mind escaping, the time within the cell gave him space to think. His thoughts led him to one conclusion; this journey was cursed, he was sure of it. He feared this would be the end of their bloodline. Fili slept restlessly in the cell. Restlessly most nights, to be honest. Visions of death haunted him.

Things haven't been the same for Fili since Rivendell, but it took a turn for the worse in the Misty Mountains. Watching Emma fall off those cliffs was what broke him. Everything that came after only cemented his the coldness in his heart and a chill in his bones. So yes, he believed without a shadow of a doubt that this endeavor was cursed.

But now was not the time to lose focus.

His mind turned back to the task at hand. Following the Bilbo's commands. He'd led them down here for a purpose, suggesting they get into the barrels. The idea was preposterous. He'd argued just as much as the other, quietly of course. They were close to turning back when...

A howl echoed in the distance.

The company froze, looking toward the stairs fearfully. After all they had been through, the sound of a warg brought a cold sweat to each Dwarf.

"Get in. Do as he says! Quickly!" Thorin Oakenshield held his eyes on the stairs.

The Dwarves struggled to get into the barrels, helping each other squeeze in, especially Bombur. Finally he was forced to suck in. The barrel nearly swell.

Each passing moment grew intense as they scrambled.

Heavy paws grew louder and louder as they settled into the barrels. In a panic, Bofur popped his head out and looked to Bilbo who was standing there next to a large lever.

"What do we do now!?"

Bilbo put his hands on the large wooden lever and gave them all a glance.

"Hold your breath."

"What?"

"Uh oh."

"Get ready!"

The loud cranking of the door being released beneath caused the elves at the table to stir, but in moments, the barrels were rolling down slope, crying out as they fell into the water below.

All that was left in the end was Bilbo...and he really hadn't thought this all through. How was he going to get out? Panic was setting in as he shuffled against the hatch.

He stomped, trying to open it, when he heard the unmistakable sound of claws against stone behind him. He swirled around, ready to draw his sword...and saw the biggest wolf he'd ever laid his eyes on. It stood at the bottom of the steps, peering at him over racks of wine. It was larger than any warg they'd run into.

And just stood there, huffing, its eyes trained on the hobbit. They glowed in the failing light.
Bilbo swallowed and pulled out his sword, holding it out in front of his as he began to back up. The wolf didn't budge, only held eye contact, sizing up its prey. It looked amused, like it was waiting for Bilbo to actually make a move.

"Did you find them?!" A familiar female voice rang out, interrupting what Bilbo thought was an intense moment.

The voice captured his attention, however, and he looked toward the stairs as several other footsteps and the shouting of Elves could be heard. If he didn't get out of here, he'd be caught.

And then what good would he be to the Dwarves?

Bilbo took another few steps back, fearful of his impeding capture. As he did so, the hatch began to plummet on one side, catching both Bilbo and the wolf off guard.

I hurried down the steps with Tauriel and her guard in tow. We'd met somewhere along the way as I revealed where the Dwarves were going. If they got away, I'd likely never see them again.

And if the Elves let them get away...well they would look rather foolish now wouldn't they? Letting a bunch of Dwarves get away from a Kingdom that was meant to be inescapable. The King would be mighty pissed if he let that happen.

Worry and nerves were causing my chest to burn. All the turning in my stomach was surely bringing about some acid into throat. Leave it to the Dwarves to put me through all of this suffering.

Nearly tripping down the steps, Tauriel was the first to get to the bottom, with myself close behind. What awaited us was the form of Bilbo falling into the depths of the cave river below. I saw only a glimpse of him, but I knew it was too late.

The hatch slowly fell back into place and we were all in shock. They'd actually gotten out of there without running into a single guard.

I let out a frustrated sigh and looked to Gregor, who was just standing there blinking.

"You couldn't at least...I dunno, maybe stop him?"

The wolf shrugged and stepped toward me with a huff.

"We have to stop them. Find Legolas! Prepare the guard-"

"Tauriel, you're going to need more than your guard. The Dwarves are going to get to the gate, but they'll be under attack the moment they get is an Orc ambush waiting for them."

"Orcs? So far into our lands? Are you sure of this?" The Captain of the Guard looked to me, hoping that what I was saying was untrue.

"You should prepare for a battle. I assure you what I am suggesting is quite real." I looked over my shoulder at the other Elves with us. "Find your King and Legolas. They'll want to be aware of this."

For a moment, they looked at each other and raised an eyebrow, not sure if they should follow my orders.

"Do as she says! Go!" Tauriel demanded, without missing a beat or questioning the authority I was trying to shove at them. As far as she knew, I was higher on the totem pole than even her King.

I met her eyes and smiled. "Thank you." She gave a small nod in return and began to ascend the steps after her guardsmen.

I shared a glance with Gregor. If there was going to be a fight, we both were going to be there. There was no way I'd leave this to the Elves. He must have agreed. The wolf before me slowly lowered down to allow me to ride him once more.

"Oh! Tauriel!" I shouted up after her.

As she turned, I placed a hand upon Gregor's neck, ready to mount my ride to the river. "Have one of your guard fetch my hammer...and make sure they don't touch it with their bare hands."

"Yes, of course." Before she could say much more, Gregor was carrying me up the stairs, shooting passed her.

"See you at the gate!"

Everything after that was a blur. Gregor knew where I wanted to go and followed the shouting of Elves and the scent from which we came. It took him little to no time to find his way out of the strong hold. He shoved us through a group of guardsmen, hearing a horn sound off in the distance. I knew time was running short.

Thankfully, my steed was a wolf on steroids. Fast and strong. He leapt through the brush and maneuvered around anything that was in his path. My fingers tingled as I held onto the Gregor...and it wasn't because I was clenching for dear life.

Ever since I unlocked the power within Nambalos, there was a surge of electrified ability running its course. It was pulsating beneath my skin and giving me the biggest boost of confidence I'd ever felt in my life.

I felt like nothing could stop me. My purpose in life was to stop evil from spreading. To stop Sauron once more. To protect these Dwarves.

Fighting the spiders had really brought something out of me. Time to show these damn Orcs there was a new asshole in town. And that asshole was me.

"Pucker up. It's about to get messy." Cliche catchphrase, check.

I smirked as we neared the sound of clashing metal. The party started without us. I could feel the muscles of Gregor tense and contort as he recognized the battle cry of Orcs. We bounded through the brush to a sight I'd nearly gasped at.

The Elves at the gate were being completely overrun by the Orcs spilling from the around them. They hopped over the walls and slaughtered them like sheep. Any weapons that had fallen were taken up by the Dwarves, who were hacking away at the countless opponents who were ordered to kill them.

Thankfully, I made it just in time. The gate wasn't open.

Gregor slid to a halt as I pulled on his fur. Without a thought, I jumped to the ground and ripped the bottom half of my dress away with struggling fingers. I'd be no good to anyone if I was stumbling over it.

"Help the Dwarves! Get them out of there so they can fight better!"

I began to walk away from him, my eyes trained on Orcs who were running amok. I made it three steps before I heard a huff from Gregor.

"Don't worry about m-" I was caught off guard by an Orc, snarling as he came at me with a raised sword.

Pure instinct kicked in.

My hand stopped the orcs from coming down, while my other hand was at it's throat, squeezing the oxygen from it's blackened lungs. The Orc wheezed and tried to escape from my grip, using a heavy fist to round onto my face. The blow landed, whipping my head to the side...but...

I felt nothing.

Slowly, I turned my gaze back on the Orc. Our eyes locked. Fear within his...murder within mine.

The smirk I gave him was accompanied with a loud snap. Which led to the Orc going limp within my grasp before I allowed it to slump to the ground. I broke it's neck with my bare hands.

I was grinning down at the corpse with adrenaline pumping into my veins. A slight noise beside me pulled me from my kill.

It was Gregor in his wolf form giving me a once over. It must have surprised him that I didn't need my hammer to defend myself. This didn't surprise me, however. I knew what I was once capable of...and it was just like riding a bike. I never forgot.

"See, I'm fine." I said motioning to the dead Orc. "Just go help the Dwarves."

Gregor shook his furry head as I bent down to quickly relieve the Orc of it's weapons; a grim looking sword with jagged edges. More like a saw blade...Not my choice, but it would do until my Hammer arrived.

With the wolf's departure, I turned my attention back to the gang of Orcs making their way to the Dwarves.

I ran as fast as my legs could take me, encountering the next Orc with a heavy slice of my sword. The sickening sound of the jagged blade tearing through flesh did little to deter my fortitude. The Orc fell to the ground with a heavy thunk, losing all life within it's disgusting husk.

The moments my eyes peeled away from the corpse, I witnessed three more turn their focus to me; A petite young woman in an Ivory gown, torn and tattered, the sleeves soaked with blackened orc blood.

My eyes hardened as I stepped toward them, completely forgetting that there was once a girl inside me name Emma. It was like a dream now. A far away memory. All I could see now, was the aura of evil surrounding these Orcs...and the power I had to rid them from this world.

"Let's go."

And they descended upon me like a pack of hungry wolves.

The Dwaves were huddling under the bridge as tight as they could, but the Orcs just continued to pursue, forcing Dwalin and the others in the back to fight. They picked up swords and knives from the Orcs that fell, awkwardly using them to slay their enemies whilst balancing within barrels.

Kili and Fili both swung their rusty weapons at another set of Orcs that attempted to end their lives. It was a common occurance now. Everyone seemed to be against them.

"They just keep coming!" Kili shouted as he swung around in the barrel.

"Keep them off as long as we can, we're sitting ducks here!" Fili retorted, trying his best to protect his little brother, even when he was aware Kili could defend himself just fine.

"There's a lever at the top of the bridge! It must release the gate!"

"Don't even think about it Kili!" Fili whirled around in his barrel to face his brother, who was thrusting a blade into the chest of another Orc. "If you go up there-"

"We can't just let them overrun us!" Kili interrupted, causing a pause from his brother.

They shared a look before Fili put a hand on his brothers shoulder...and hoisted himself up and out of the barrel.

"You stay here."

"Hey! What are you doing?! This is my idea!"

"Right," Fili looked down at his brother with a smirk, "and your ideas always turn out to be nothing but trouble. You'll thank me later, I promise."

The blonde Dwarf was off, leaving his brother shouting and trying to fend off another Orc that splashed into the river with them. Fili used the barrels as a path, jumping onto the stone bridge with unsteady feet. He nearly toppled over at the edge, but regained his balance and stood firmly.

His success was met with an Orc, coming right at him. He dodged the swift hack of a sword, the blade barely brushing against the hair on his head. It was a close call that was followed by another. Fili stepped back and grabbed the Orcs free arm, countering the heavy punch he would have received. With a brief moment in the fight, Fili was able to deliver his own attack, using his large fist to plow right into the jaw of the Orc.

The plow was enough to stun the Orc as it stumbled to the ground. Another came to the rescue, looking to avenge its fellow Orc. It moved to bludgeon Fili with it's oversized club, but was met with the sound of a growl from beside it.

It was a sound that caught both the Orc and Fili off guard. Their heads barely turned when a large, dark haired warg jumped onto the Orc and mauled it. It screamed in agony as the warg ripped it to shreds.

The blonde Dwarf, stumbled back, catching his foot on the stone steps. Fili scrambled to gain his composure, stumbling up the stairs to pull the lever. If the warg got to him next, it would be over.

Getting to the top of the bridge, the lever was a clear shot. Just a few meters away. He'd pull it and the company would be on their way to safety.

A sudden pain shot through his back. He tumbled to the ground and turned over, seeing another Orc. It's lips curled up over black teeth and raised a mace it struck Fili with seconds ago, looking to smash his head in.

Fear erupted through Fili. This was it. The end of his life. A sort of resolve rolled through him as time slowed down. Flashes of his life came before him and he had to admit...He didn't regret much. Perhaps not giving his brother more time together or not living up to his mother's expectations as the oldest. Not being stronger or taller. He could have been nicer to Kili when they were wee lads or found the time to enjoy what he had. Maybe he could have stolen a few more kisses or laid with a few more lasses.

Perhaps he should ha-

The Orc was thrown out of the way and over the other side of the bridge into the raging rapids below...and in it's place stood a very muscular, tall man...naked as a babe.

"Are you injured, lad?" The man put out a hand, hoping to help Fili to his feet.

Fili just stared at him, blinking. What just happened?

"Come on, boy. I don't have all day! We need to get your companions out of those barrels before they swarm us again!"

"Who-" And then Fili remembered he needed to pull the lever. It was righ there. He could just...

"Please don't do it!" The man grabbed Fili's wrist, holding it firmly as the blonde Dwarf attempted to reach for it.

"Let me go!" Fili was ready to fight now, regardless of the pain shooting through his spine.

"Stop being difficult! We didn't come all this way to help you Dwarves, just for you to muck it up!"

Fili stopped and looked up at the man, having to arch his neck to raised an eyebrow.

"Help us?" He didn't sound convinced.

"A bargain was struck with King Thranduil to release your company, but you fools escaped before they could release you."

The large man was almost ambushed by an Orc, but he released the grip on Fili and easily avoided the blade before grabbing the creature, hurling him away.

"Let's get your friends out of the barrels." The man turned away, lumbering down the steps...still naked and very confident.

"How can we trust you?" Fili called out, taking a few painful steps after the man.

Once more, the man locked eyes with him, a smirk on his lips. "Don't worry little Dwarf. I promise no harm will come to any of you. We are allies, after all."

Allies? Fili wasn't sure if he could really trust this man. He was walking around naked, for Makers sake. Only a crazy person would do that.

Fili had a choice to make...pull the lever...or believe this weird man...

The answer seemed pretty obvious.

The blonde dwarf reached the lever and held the handle firly in his grasp, ready to pull as hard as he could.

"FILI! IF YOU OPEN THAT DAMN GATE, I'LL KILL YOU MYSELF!"

A voice carried over the sound of clashing weapons and grunting Orcs. A voice so familiar and haunting that it made his blood run cold. He must be hearing things...

Fili shook his head and cursed her for showing up like this. For pestering his thoughts and visions of her since her demise.

"EMMA!" Kili called out in disbelief. Her voice was heard by the others as well?

"She's alive! Praise the Maker, it's a miracle!" Balin shouted.

"I don't believe it..." Dwalin spoke quietly, shocked as the others.

Stormy blue eyes looked away from the wooden lever and searched for the source of his nightmares. To the one who caused him to obsess and fret over. To the woman who seemed to latch onto his very soul, tugging at his will.

There she was. Chocolate hair whirling around in tendrils, casting a brilliant shimmer in the sunlight. Unnaturally fair skin practically glowed beneath the black blood that was splattered against it. Green eyes sparkled, as though emeralds were in their place, a gift by the Gods.

She looked just as he'd last seen her.

"Emma..." The name hadn't left his lips in months. Not since...

His hands fell away from the lever and he watched her, even as arrows began to fly across his vision. Slowly, he stepped down from the bridge to where the man was standing. The Orcs now had their full attention on Emma, wanting to take her out once and for all, leaving the Dwarves alone for the time being. She fought them with a ferocity he'd never seen.

Never had Fili seen her look so strong.

But as the Orc's began to circle around her, his awe turned to concern. She had no way out and no one to watch her back.

The vision of her hanging from the ledge in the mountains swirled within his head. Emma looked to helpless and there was nothing they could do to help her. Nothing. They couldn't help her. He couldn't...He didn't...

As he looked on, his resolve hardened and fists clenched.

He didn't try hard enough.

But this time...

"We have to help her...We have to help her!" Fili called out, getting the attention of his kin. "Get out of those barrels and pick up a weapon!"

A FEW MOMENTS EARLIER

I was never a very good swordsman. There was no problem admitting that. No amount of training or combat could give me the confidence I needed to use blades. Don't get me wrong, I could kill with one easily, it just...wasn't comfortable. There was too much fluidity to it. Too much thought. Fighting these ugly Orcs reminded me just how unpolished I'd become. There was something heavy-handed about using anything other than my hammer. These rough weapons the Orcs used were harsh and unfit for my hands.

My small hands and those of the Orcs will forever be incompatible.

Now, skill. That was a whole other story. They came at me swinging wildly. Aggressively trying to strike me down.

The smirk on my face as they tried their best said only one thing: Fat chance.

Every particle of my body was vibrating with energy, waiting to burst forth. I could tell Nambalos was close by...and getting closer by the minute. We were practically one by now. Boy, was I glad to have her back. She carried me through so many battles, it was almost inconceivable that I'd go so long without her in my life.

Embedding the Orcish blade into the shoulder of my momentary opponent, I brought a foot up and kicked hard into its chest. The force was so great, the blade came from from its flesh and the Orc was sent several yards away, crashing into another, both crumbling to the ground unconscious.

My eyes peeled away for a second, looking in the direction I'd sent my companion, Gregor. Had he made it to the Dwarves in time?

A visibly relaxed and let out a breath of air. They were still there. I looked on, taking in the forms from where I stood. It was hard to believe they were yards away.

My attention flipped back to the next Orc, who dared to step into my space. It gave no second thought whether it was wise to take me on.

Commands were commands...and none of them seemed to have a mind of their own. They only knew hate, destruction, and domination. The weakest were scared of the strongest. This one would be easy pickings.

"Let's go." I swirled the sword in my hand as he came at me.

It was like fighting a child. He ran at me with everything he had, only to be sidestepped. The fumbling Orc corrected himself and tried once more, only to be sliced across the chest.

No mercy shall be given this day. Not to them. Not to any Orc.

Emerald eyes located my next opponent. The tall one...standing above the rest, throwing out commands.

What was his stupid name again? B-something. I knew he was the one sent to kill the Dwarves. His sights were completely trained on them, not paying any attention to my insignificant form. I was nothing to him...

He was in for a very rude awakening.

As the name clicked in my head, I let the jagged sword in my hand rest at my side, my fingers gripped so tight, the knuckles were white.

"BOLG!" My voice boomed.

My call was answered with a pair of beady eyes and clenched teeth looking my way. He'd just strung his bow, ready for the perfect shot when I caught his attention. My voice resounded so loudly, it nearly made him believe Azog was there.

Instead, he found a petite woman covered in orc blood, glaring at him.

The orc obviously didn't believe I was a threat. He turned back to his bow and aimed down the sights.

"Do you not believe your master would want me? After all, he sent so many of you to capture me so many times...I hardly believe he'd let you live if he knew you had the chance...and let it slip away."

The Orc was surprised I spoke in black speech, but immediately realized the stakes were high. They hadn't seen the female since the mountains and only assumed she'd succumbed to the harsh environment.

But here I was. Alive and well.

The bow and Orc turned, releasing the arrow at me instead of his intended target. The black arrow sliced through the air, carving it's way to my chest. It would be deadly if the arrow landed true...but I wasn't about to die today.

With a quick motion, I brought up the sword, batting away the arrow before taking my steps toward the Orc leader. He didn't panick or faulter. He notched another arrow and shot it toward me once more, only for me to deny him his prize. Funny how he was trying to kill me...considering Sauron wanted me alive.

Or maybe...he no longer wanted me around to spoil his fun.

"Kill the female!"

Oh, so he wasn't going to take care of this himself, eh?

I took note of the Orc now turning their attention to me. This was bound to get messier than anticipated. I just hoped I'd be able to hold them off while Gregor helped the Dwarves.

My eyes only shot over to my friends for a second, but it was enough to see the blonde head of a certain Dwarf atop the bridge. Shit, wasn't Kili supposed to be there?

Fuck. Fili wouldn't listen to reason when tension was high. He was more like Thorin than he likely realized.

I barely dodged a spear. Grabbing hold of the handle, I pulled hard, bringing the wielder closer to my proximity and ran him through the stomach. The weak Orc toppled over with only a grunt only to be replaced by two more.

Dual swords swung downward, attempting to, with little effect, wound me. The sword in my possession came up to meet theirs. It was now a battle of strength. I held them at bay while taking a step forward, successfully pushing them a step back.

My eye caught Bolg looking toward the bridge, with another arrow ready to go.

I was sweating now. My heart hammered against my chest. If he released that arrow, it was Fili who would be it's victim. I tore my eyes to the bridge and noticed the foolish blonde Dwarf of my nightmares reaching for the lever.

Sucking in air, I pushed hard against the swords, the Orcs falling back at the force. The moment I was free of them I released my weapon, letting it soar through the air, spinning like a windmill.

My breath hitched while I watched, time slowing with anticipation. Bolg didn't see it coming. Not until it was too late.

The hilt of the sword hit Bolg in the side of his head and the arrow let loose. I gasped loudly, fear lacing my features and I swiveled to witness what I could only imagine was Fili falling in agony.

The Valar were smiling upon me today. An audible thunk was heard as the arrow embedding into the tree beside the bridge and my eyes found Fili, who was foolishly about to pull that lever.

"FILI! IF YOU OPEN THAT DAMN GATE, I'LL KILL YOU MYSELF!"

If I could just get to them, this wouldn't be so damn difficult. The Orcs were keeping me from my goal and it was really starting to piss me off.

Unfortunately I wasn't the only one pissed off...

Bolg rounded to glared at me and I scrambled to grab a fallen weapon.

"KILL HER! KILL HER NOW!"

Presently, my weapon handling was quite skilled, but the Orcs were relentless now that Bolg focused all of his forces on me. Offensively, I could beast my way through this. Defensively, I was having a bit of trouble. I took down two Orcs with the new sword I'd picked up before I realized I was vastly outnumbered.

The Orcs had surrounded me, with Bolg grinning with saw like teeth. He held a large blade firmly as he moved toward me, the smaller Orcs parting to make way. The only expression on his face told me he'd enjoy putting me down.

It was possible...The thought of dying crept its way from the back of my head, but when you've already died a couple times, it didn't really bring the feeling of dread.
I met his grin with a smirk and shifted my feet to better direct my next move. Taking him out would bring me great joy. One less chess piece to worry about.

War cries suddenly filled the air.

The Orcs and myself all turned to see 13 armed Dwarves, a Hobbit, and a large wolf coming full speed.

Bolg scoffed. "Slay them all. I'll take care of the girl."

The other Orcs took off at their new orders, ready to slaughter the Dwarf-scum. Bolg, on the other hand, was ready to take me all for himself.

Presently, my weapon handling was quite skilled, but the Orcs were relentless now that Bolg focused all of his forces on me. Offensively, I could beast my way thorugh this. Defensively, I was having a bit of trouble. I took down two Orcs with the new sword I'd picked up before I realized I was vastly outnumbered.

The Orcs had surrounded me, with Bolg grinning with saw like teeth. He held a large blade firmly as he moved toward me, the smaller Orcs parting to make way. The only expression on his face told me he'd enjoy putting me down.

It was possible...The thought of dying snuck its way from the back of my head, but when you've already died a couple times, it didn't really bring the feeling of dread.
I met his grin with a smirk and shifted my feet to better direct my next move. Taking him out would bring me great joy. One less chess piece to worry about.

War cries suddenly filled the air.

The Orcs and myself all turned to see 13 armed Dwarves, a Hobbit, and a large wolf coming full speed.

Bolg scoffed. "Slay them all. I'll take care of the girl."

The other Orcs took off at their new orders, ready to slaughter the Dwarf-scum. Bolg, on the other hand, was ready to take me all for himself.

Our eyes locked. If he thought he could take me on just because I was smaller than him, he was sorely mistaken. Regardless of how confident i was feeling about this fight, I still swallowed hard...and he saw right through the front I was trying to put on.

With a mighty roar, he came at me. Each blow I attempted to shield with my own sword was painful. The force Bolg put into his advances vibrated through my weapon, down the hilt and into my hands. It shook my bones and stung enough for me to gasp. The other Orcs hadn't pushed me like this. The difference in power was shockingly obvious.

I winced and stepped back as he pushed with each swing of his heavy blade. Finally, he gave one might downward strike, causing my knees to nearly buckle. The sounds of battle around me were drowned out by the beating of my heart. I held him above me, but he didn't seem to have any trouble putting more of his strength into the struggle. Clenching my teeth, I focused my energy into fighting back...but he was stronger than I expected.

My left knee gave out and I dropped it to the ground while still maintaining what little hold I had on him. All he had to do was kick me or put allof his weight into his weapon and it was al be over.

That thought must have crossed his mind at some point, for he was grinning down at me with menacing excitment.

Arrows let loose all around us, striking Orcs left and right. The Elves had arrived.

They sprung forth from the bushed and trees, taking down one Orc after another to protect the Dwarves, their land, and me.

Bolg took notice of the situation and grimaced with frustration. There were more Elves than they could handle.

"EMI! YOUR WEAPON!"

I heard the voice of Tauriel and looked over my shoulder. She had Nambalos with her, its bindings tight as to not harm anyone.

I just had to get to her.

Oh-wait. She's throwing it.

Shit! I had to make a move if I wanted to catch Nambalos, but-

My eyes tore back to Bolg, who was starting to let up on his advance. It seemed the presence of so many Elves made him nervous.

Narrowing my eyes, I shoved to my feet to catch him off guard and pushed as hard as I could while spining away from him. I let the sword I was holding go, giving him the advantage he was looking for. Just as he gain his composure, Bolg lifted his blade and swung.

Without a weapon, I was open to him.

The bindings on Nambalos began to slip, the fabric uncovering the shimmering white mineral that it was made of. Time slowed...and I prayed to the Valar.

Outstreching my fingers, I found the the handle easily...or it found me.

Grasping Nambalos, it sang to me and in return, I sang back. Our souls met to embrace and once more, I was whole.

A blinding white light exploded from Nambalos, amplifying its power to those of darkness. The force was so strong, it blew the Orcs off their feet and caused the rest to shield their eyes.

Bolg never got the chance to kill me. He and his weapon were flung away, his shout of terror disappearing with him.

When the light began to fade, I was there, holding Nambalos firmly within my grasp. A rush of cold air filled my lungs and I let it out, my breath visible as it escaped my lips.

"FALL BACK! RETREAT!"

Bolg's voice captured the attention of the remaining Orcs. They scrabled to their feet and attempted to escaped.

This brought the Dwarves and Elves out of their shock as well. Arrows flew and Dwarves gave chase to the Orcs who tried to scurry away.

The light held within me terrified them.

Smirking, I waited for the rest of the Orcs to run while narrowly avoiding arrows.

Some got away. Some laid dead upon the ground.

One, however, was about to be slain when I called out to Tauriel.

"Leave that one! Take him to King Thranduil."

She gave me a nod, understanding that we needed at least one prisoner. This Orc would talk...whether he wanted to or not.

With the Orcs now on the run, I sighed heavily.

"Emma? Is that really you?" How could I forget? Kili's voice caught my attention and I turned to look at him.

He stood there with the rest of the company trailing in behind him. They'd all done their part to help and now they were finally able to see me. Really see me.

Not so long ago, they'd watched me fall. Their eyes filled with grief and relief at the same time. I scanned their faces, each and every one of them. Words could not express how happy I was to see the Dwarves, and Bilbo, alive and well.

"H-How is it possible, lass?" Bofur was the first to step forward, almost unsure if this was real. The weapon had long since fallen from his hands and he gingerly reached forward to touch my face. His rough fingers grazed my cheek before his eyes went wide and his whole hand cupped my face.

"She's real! It's really her!"

"Of course it is!" Kili was the second to approach me and he didn't hesitate to swoop me into his arms.

I couldn't hold it any longer. Nambalos fell from my fingers and I wrapped my arms around Kili, holding him as tight as I could. A sob burst from my throat and a waterfall of tears released.

That was when the dam of emotions broke out amongst all of us. Dwarves swarmed me and one by one, with the exception of a few, I was able to take them in.

It was an immediate reaction that had the Elves at least understanding this was a tender moment. They didn't move to take the Dwarves prisoner again and only watched. Tauriel had a small smile on her lips while Legolas stood beside her, looking a rather uncomfortable. His distaste for Dwarves was still prevelant.

But what did I care? I had my company back. My friends.

In the mix of it all, I hadn't once seen the stormy blue eyes that normally berated me for being so clumsy or danger prone. It wasn't utnil I moved to the back of the group that I came before Thorin, who had Balin on his left and Fili on his right. The rightful King Under the Mountain smiled at me cautiously.

"You're alive, I see."

"Yes...Very much so."

He was still weary of me. Understandble. I'd been pretty difficult with him and the company.

"I'm sure you have a lot of questions..." I let my shoulders slump a bit. The adrenaline was starting to wear off.

"I was told you made a deal for our release."

Oh. He sounded a bit annoyed. After everything, he couldn't just, I don't know, be happy to see me?

Before I could answer, Legolas stepped in beside me, his head slightly bowed as he began to speak.

"Lady Emi, I'm afraid my father has requested the Dwarves to be imprisoned longer than agreed...as punishment for escaping."

Of course he did.

Another sigh and roll of the eyes, I looked at him with a stern expression.

"You'll do no such thing. If even a hair is put back into those cells..."

The threat was there. His piercing blue eyes held mine. He didn't like threats, especially to his kin.

"If your father wishes to go back on his word, I'll take my Dwarves by force, if I have to."

Slowly, he seemed to cave and nodded carefully.

"I meant no offense, My Lady. Surely, my father will understand."

"He will. We have much to discuss...all of us."

"Have you thrown your lot in with the Elves?!" Thorin interrupted, stepping closer. He was incredibly on edge with being imprisoned by the Elves and having their escape ruined because of her...even though he should be happy I was alive.

Shifting my eyes back to Thorin, I noticed how tense he was. I couldn't blame him for being so uptight. There was a lot at stake.

"If you wish to take Erebor, Thorin Oakenshield, I suggest you listen to reason."

"You have no idea what we've been through! How dare you just waltz back to us and-"

"Hold your tongue Dwarf!" Gregor, in all his naked glory, stepped forward...and caused the Dwarves to prepare to fight.

"Okay look," I started, rubbing my temple as I tried to find some middle ground here," It's been a really exhausting day for everyone. Can we just go back inside and relax? Maybe get some food or something?

"How do you expect us to just go back there? They imprisoned us, Emma." Finally, his voice.

Fili defended his Uncle just as they all would, but his eyes averted when my eyes tried to meet his gaze. Instead, he looked down and reached for my hand. Regadless of the black blood splattered against pale skin, he caressed my knuckles softly.

I suspected he hand another reason to speak up.

"We watched you fall..."

Sorrow filled my heart as I allowed him to hold my hand. I cast my eyes to our connected hands and tried to hold back the tears.

"We mourned you..."

"I know."

"You can't expect us to just come back from that so quickly, Emma."

That name. It was starting to really get to me that I've been holding back from them about everything.

With as much courage as I could muster, I pulled my hand from him slowly.

"Emi."

As I let my eyes rise to meet his face, Fili let his confused eyes connect with mine. There they were. Those storm filled eyes.

I gave him a small smile, trying to hide any trepidation.

"My name is Emi."

"What are you talking about, lass?" I heard Bofur ask somewhere behind me.

"I'm afraid I've been hiding something from you for some time..."

The Dwarves and Bilbo slowly moved in closer, confused and concerned about what I was about to say. Perhaps I wasn't a seer...or maybe I was some thief instead.

"Do you remember when you asked me if I was a Dwarf?" I asked Fili, holding his gaze while trying to be brave.

He nodded, sadly remembering a time before chaos started. "Of course I do."

"I said then that my father was a Dwarf...I lied."

"It was easy to see through your lies, Elf-friend. Do you think we were all so foolish as to believe you were one of us?" Thorin was trying to justify his anger, but I kept my eyes on Fili. He would at least hear me for everything I was about to say.

"My father isn't a Dwarf." I confirmed once more. "My father is something greater than Dwarves or Elves."

Fili furrowed his brows as he looked at me, trying to understand what I was trying to say and I was trying to find the courage to say it. My bottom lip trembled and I searched his eyes for strength to tell him the truth.

The words just bounced around in my head and I struggled to form any coherent sentence.

"Her father is your Maker, Dwarf. Mahal...Aule. "

Bless Legolas. He was quick to intercept my struggling demeanor. But I think what he really wanted to do, was to wipe the smug look right off Thorin's face.

And it did.