Chapter Text
8 Years Later:
As birds sang to the rising sun, Bilbo Baggins quickly got dressed. He wanted to get to the market as soon as possible so that he could hopefully be home in time to see his father before Bungo left. The markets of Esgaroth were less flourishing than the ones in their home of Dale, but travelers were always seen wandering around stalls and pubs. If Bungo was lucky, he could make a pretty penny off of those men. That was if Bilbo’s father would even get there on time.
Putting on his simple clothes and failing to fix his mop of curly blonde hair, Bilbo grabbed a basket and a pouch of coins before setting off into the market. The Baggins’ garden was still doing wonderfully so he would only need to get some bread, meats and dairy products they couldn’t produce themselves. Bungo left the garden, their few chickens and their horse Myrtle for Bilbo to take care of. He didn’t mind as it gave his father more time to work on his inventions.
Bilbo stopped by the small chicken coop next to their house and mentally added more chicken feed to his list. Perhaps even some nice apples for Myrtle as well. She favored Granny Smiths and Bilbo hoped they would be in stock. Quickly making sure his animals were fed the young man stepped out onto Bagshot Row.
Dale was a quiet place in the mornings, but Bilbo knew this peace would not last. Many workers, shopkeepers, travelers and Dale’s citizens would be buzzing around hoping to get the best deals before heading home. Bilbo hoped that he would be early enough to beat most of the crowd as he saw the Gamgee's opening up their stall. Hamfast was one of the most renowned farmers in Dale and was the one who taught Bilbo how to start his own garden. Bell, his wife, was an excellent baker and one of Bilbo’s truest friends along with Hamfast himself.
With them was all of their young brood. Hamson was ten and one of the brightest children Bilbo had ever met; always asking the man to tell him stories or help him with his arithmetic. As school was just starting for the young lad Bilbo was happy to do anything for him. Halfred was still too young to go to school, only being seven didn’t always have its perks. He wanted to be at school with his brother but settled for helping his family more. Daisy and May were five and two, respectively. Both of the young girls took after their mother and loved to bake. And always trying to steal Bilbo’s time away. When he came into their view, all four of the Gamgee children tackled him to the ground.
“Mister Bilbo!”
“We haven’t seen ya in so long!”
“Halfred, we saw him yesterday at luncheon.”
“Well that isn’t stopping you from hugging him either, is it Daisy?”
Bilbo smiled as he untangled himself from the arms of four grabby children and stood up to brush off the dust from his clothes. May raised her arms in a silent plea to be picked up, which Bilbo happily obliged. Hamfast laughed as his children began pulling the younger man over to their parents.
“Hello there, Bilbo,” the farmer beamed. Bilbo smiled back and somehow gave his friend a hug despite having a young child wrapped around him.
“Good morning, Bilbo my dear!” Bell called out from the stall. Fresh bread and other pastries started to pile on the front counter and finally, the woman came out. Her hair was pulled into a tight ponytail, flour covering her hands and apron. Bilbo couldn’t help but smile at her as he handed May to Hamfast. The farmer quickly started to give his children small tasks to keep themselves preoccupied. Bilbo silently thanked the man so that he could talk to Bell in private.
“Hello Bell,” he paused, making sure none of the children could hear them before continuing. “Is the morning sickness starting to ease up? If not I can go to the Bolger’s apothecary today and get you something if you’d like,” he whispered as he saw Bell gently rub her protruding belly. The fifth child was just a few months away and Bilbo was terribly excited for his friend. However, her health seemed to take a turn for the worse this time around and Bilbo didn’t want any of the children to worry about their mother. If he could help her at all, he would do so no questions asked.
Bell chuckled lightly before hugging the only son of Bungo and Belladonna. She had promised Belladonna on her deathbed that she would look after the young boy like an older sister. Bilbo didn’t remember much of that day except for the smell of pungent medicine and hot tears streaming down his face. And his mother making Bell promise her to keep her son safe. Of course, that didn’t stop Bilbo from always making sure Bell always had everything she ever needed. With the way Bell was smiling tightly, though, Bilbo knew she wouldn’t let him get away with it easily today.
“I will not have you go out of your way to help me, Bilbo,” the woman voiced her stubbornness as they pulled away. The younger of the two narrowed his eyes at her in obvious defiance before looking down at his basket. Ah, of course! He had to return a novel to Pimpernel today and he could ask her if she knew if Amelia had a new stock of anise and peppermint.
“Bell, I have to go to Nellie anyway. She’ll be able to ask Amelia if there’s any new stock. I won’t be going out of my way, but we both know I would anyway,” Bilbo countered. Bell seemed to think this through before finally surrendering. They both knew she needed to be as healthy as she could and once Bilbo set his mind to something no one could stop him. They set to putting the last of the goods from the farm and bakery out on the stall. The children, minus Hamson who was now on his way to school, all went to the center fountain to play with the ducks and any others nearby. Bilbo made his purchases, which he failed to persuade the two to let him pay full price, and eventually prepared himself to leave their stall. However, he had one last thing to ask them.
“Do tell me, are there any names you are thinking of?” Bilbo inquired while shifting his now almost full basket onto his left arm. The young man may not have had any siblings but he always treasured the Gamgee children with his whole heart, along with his many nieces and nephews. His curiosity on the newest member of his friend’s family was gnawing at him.
Hamfast smiled at his wife as he brought her closer in his arms. “For a girl, we were thinking of Petunia,” he answered and Bilbo grinned in return. A beautiful name for a surely beautiful child in the most wholesome family he could think of. Bell was the next to answer. “If it’s a boy, I told Hamfast I want to call him Samwise. Quite the proper name, isn’t it?”
Bilbo nodded and smiled at them. They were such a lovely couple, happy with the few things they had and their gorgeous children. It caused a pang of hurt and...longing to have that kind of love for someone. His father’s true love was taken from him when Bilbo was still very young but their love was a powerful burning sun. Bilbo’s closest friends had found that love in someone already and while Bungo still wanted to keep Bilbo all to himself they both knew he would have to marry someone. Soon.
And that someone would not be anyone Bilbo loved. That he knew for certain.
After saying his goodbyes and buying a few more necessities around the market, the young man found himself at the front of Bolger Apothecary. Amelia was an expert in the medical field but she excelled in herbal remedies. It was one of Bilbo’s favorite places to visit and it helped that her wife, Pimpernel or better known as Nellie, was one of the other few bookworms in town. The woman collected all genres and authors to add to her large library which she openly shared with Bilbo. A small chime echoed through the shop as Bilbo stepped inside. Ginger, aloe, arnica, chamomile and other herbs were meticulously stored. Some dried and hanging from the ceiling along with the lavender Amelia favored, some in jars while others were in boxes. Bilbo knew he would never find what he was looking for by himself and went up to the front counter.
Sitting on a small, cushioned chair was Amelia Bolger. Her dark locks were pulled into a loose bun and many curls freed themselves from their ribbon prison. She was currently sucked into a book, The Many Advantages of Foreign Medicinal Herbs by Radagast Brown. A certainly strenuous title but Bilbo was not one to judge. Coughing politely, he was able to bring his friend back to reality. Her dark eyes light up when she saw her old childhood friend. They had both meet by thanks of Nellie, the rambunctious daughter of the Boffin family simply had to have her two closest friends meet when they were younger. Little did they all know back then that eventually Nellie would become a Bolger and that simple Amelia would be able to calm her dear heart's adventurous spirit with the power of books. Nellie would get so lost in them that it was a journey all on its own. Of course, this is what started the whole addiction to finding new novels but at least her wife would not have a heart attack at the prospect of Nellie getting hurt on an adventure.
“Bilbo!” Amelia exclaimed as she jumped from her seat, quickly crossing the border between them to give Bilbo a warm hug. The man smiled as they pulled away, always appreciative to have such wonderful friends here. Granted, he lived most of his life in Dale. But when his father had moved them away from the Shire, away from where Belladonna died, Bilbo never thought he would be able to speak to another person; let alone smile and laugh. He was lucky the Gamgees moved with them, seeing a promising future in a new town, but Hamfast and Bell were already married and ten years his seniors. Meeting Nellie and Amelia changed his life for the better.
“How are you on this fine day?” the woman asked, now busy trying to fix her hair. Bilbo laughed at her before he clamped a hand over his mouth at the sight of her lethal glare. He knew that being on her bad side was a death wish.
Quickly composing himself, Bilbo responded. “Very well, my friend. Though I need your help with something.” At this, Amelia raised an eyebrow and skeptically looked him over.
“You don’t look ill.”
“It’s not for me, it’s for-”
“Bungo? What are his symptoms? Fever, headache, any-”
“No, Amelia! Just listen for one bloody moment, would you? It’s for Bell. Do you have any of the anise and peppermint tea that helps her so much with her morning sickness?”
Amelia pursed her lips in thought before nodded. “Yes in fact I do. It may take me a few minutes to find some other things to help her though. I’ll only give the best for the Gamgee family,” she said, smiling brightly. Bilbo let her get to work as he headed towards the back of the shop. At the end of a long hallway was a twisting spiral staircase that led to the Bolger home. Climbing up, Bilbo heard the pacing footsteps of one very nervous Nellie Bolger. When he finally made his way to her library he could see her short curly hair bouncing with every step she took. Her hands kept clenching her dress as she stared miserably out the window before continuing her fretting. At this rate, she would ruin their oak floors.
Nellie turned to see Bilbo and immediately ran to him, nearly crushing him in an embrace. The young man, not used to seeing her so distressed, lifted up her face to look into her eyes. Tears were building before she buried her face into his shoulder again.
“Oh dear, Nellie, what on earth happened?”
He was only meet with sniffles and little trembles. She was two years younger than him and Bilbo treated her like a little sister. If something was this troubling to her he knew it must've been terrible. After a few moments, Nellie finally pulled away and Bilbo gave her his handkerchief which she gratefully accepted. Taking a few deep breaths, the woman pulled herself together and finally looked at Bilbo with the strength and determination she always held. Whatever this was, Bilbo was ready to listen.
“He’s back.”
Bilbo tried not to let his stomach drop nor let his worry show. This could be any person. Many of men had left Dale the past two months and the last time Bilbo had saw...him; there was a strong possibility he would not be coming back.
“Who, Nellie?” he questioned. Her forest green eyes narrowed as her entire face tensed up. That was definitely not the right thing to say, apparently.
“Don’t play games, Bilbo! I saw him with Gollum walking around the market today! You barely dodged him as you came here!”
Well, there went any hope Bilbo had left. Gollum, the poor town fool of Dale, was mistreated by many people. Save for some friendly merchants, the Bolger’s, the Gamgee’s and Bilbo himself. They played a game of riddles every time they met, which made Gollum love to seek the young man out. This wouldn’t have been a problem unless a certain someone didn’t use the man as a Bilbo locater. The poor soul had been left homeless by his family only to be taken by him. It wasn’t an act of kindness, no Bilbo knew better than that. He only gave Gollum clothes, a home and one single ring that the man wore on a chain. It was the only thing he could claim as his; his precious. It was horrible how awful Gollum was treated and everyone knew that they could do nothing to save him. Well, that was the mind thought of those who didn’t worship the ground that he walked on.
Smaug, the greatest calamity of Bilbo’s life.
The man was a veteran of war and he never let anyone in Dale forget the sacrifices he made. Nor did he let anyone forget how splendid and grand and oh so perfect he was. A narcissistic, egotistic, greedy and vain human being that Bilbo absolutely despised. Unfortunately, it seemed that Smaug couldn’t get enough of him.
Three years ago, three whole years, Smaug had begun to court him...though it seemed that the man only wanted Bilbo to praise him. There were moments when Smaug was charming and sometimes his gifts were thoughtful, but every day was filled with him hunting Bilbo down only to want to bask in adoration that the younger man never gave. Bilbo was “As stubborn as a bull, as brilliant as the sun and as tempting as a vault of gold,” according to Smaug. Obviously, Smaug only went after the greatest of prizes. That was evident enough during his hunting trips. While most men came back with rabbits or the occasional doe, Smaug would return with bucks and wild hogs. He adorned himself with the finest clothing and jewelry Dale could offer and back then he made it clear that Bilbo was the only person he would settle for.
He liked the challenge. Bilbo did not.
The young man hid from Smaug daily and when they did speak he made it painfully obvious that he did not wish to marry the man. Not now, not ever. Gollum had begged Bilbo to consider the marriage. “We could play the game of riddles all day! And he’s not too bad to live with; you’ll only have to clean and cook and do as he says. It’s simple!” But Bilbo told him no, just as he did with the Gamgee’s and all the others who wanted him to get married off. Even Bard, the ruler of Dale and a good friend of Bungo, wished to see him married to someone soon. Though Bard showed his distaste for Smaug he was happy that a person of such high seating in their city was interested in the young man. Bard’s children, luckily, were on Bilbo’s side. Bilbo had turned away suitors before and perhaps it was his own fault of doing so that made him such a tempting target to Smaug. But Bilbo could not marry someone who he did not love. Especially if they would take his freedom away. And that was exactly what Smaug would do.
But those problems had left Bilbo two months ago when Smaug, Gollum, and a small hunting party left to Mirkwood; one of the largest forests in all of the lands. Many rare beasts were said to live there, though Lord Thranduil told everyone that no such fantastical things ever occurred in his forests. Dale, Esgaroth, and Mirkwood had good relations so luckily the party was allowed to hunt there. And, better yet, Smaug would be gone for a very very long time. Bilbo hoped that Smaug would never return, hopefully finding a new and willing partner or getting lost in the dense forest. But, of course, luck was never on Bilbo’s side.
“Do you think he saw me come in?” Bilbo inquired as he rushed over to the window. Sure enough, there he was. Tall body covered in a velvet, ruby red coat. His boats newly shined and his inky black hair a signal of doom to Bilbo. He was trying to look his best, that was for sure. And in his hands was a bouquet of flowers. Yellow daffodils, for new beginnings and future success. Blue violets, symbolizing affection. Jasmines, meaning love and sensuality while also showing nobility and grace. Bilbo snorted at that one; Smaug couldn’t help but compliment himself at every given opportunity. And lastly in the unfortunately beautiful arrangement, were forget-me-nots. By Yavanna’s tears that was terribly romantic. It all meant so many things. Never forget my love, my heart is yours and Bilbo’s personal favorite; authentic love bursting with memories. How Smaug was able to find out that those small yet beautiful creations of nature were Bilbo’s favorite flower, he did not know. What he did know is that it made him want to destroy the flowers as soon as possible.
“Oh Bilbo,” Nellie muttered, bringing the man out of his thoughts. He knew she hated Smaug with a passion as she was never one for having her friends tormented and bothered. “I wish he got lost in those woods! Curse him and his persistence! Damn his name and belongings! I shall march down there and give that snake a piece of my mind!”
As the furious woman was about to march off, Bilbo quickly pulled her arm back. Looking up at him in confusion, Nellie stopped and waited for an explanation.
“I need to face him myself. Though I would like to take a part of your strength with me, if I could?” he spoke with pleading eyes. Understanding immediately, Nellie grabbed Bilbo’s basket and replaced his book with two new ones. Hopefully trying to get him to stay inside for as long as he could and give him something to focus on when his father left. Smiling in gratitude, Bilbo hugged his friend. Nellie looked at him one more time before staring at the window.
“If he bothers you anymore I will not hesitate to chop his berries off.”
A moment of silence passed before the two of them were laughing like fools. Amelia, apparently having seen Smaug lurking outside her shop, came upstairs then and she smiled at the two. They were just like children again, all happy and full of joy. Nellie smiled at her wife before running to give her kisses. Amelie laughed, lifted the young woman and spun her around in the air before turning to Bilbo. She pulled out the herbs Bell needed and put her hand up when the man started to pull of some coins to pay.
“I’ll deliver the package to Bell today, all free of charge. Go home as quickly as you can,” she paused and gave her friend a deep hug. “You are strong; he will back down eventually.”
As comforting as the words were, Bilbo wasn’t sure they were true.
Stepping out of the apothecary was like jumping out of the frying pan and into the fire. As soon as Smaug saw Bilbo, he puffed out his chest and smiled with all his perfect teeth; including the abnormally sharp canines. If the look in his strange golden eyes were anything to go by, Bilbo wasn’t getting out of this situation easily.
“Good afternoon, Bilbo,” Smaug practically purred out. Oh, he was definitely proud of himself on this day. Coming back early from a trip, brand new clothes and a beautiful bouquet that he was just itching to give to the younger man. Gollum looked at Bilbo with wide blue eyes full of hope that today would be the day Bilbo accepted Smaug. Hating to disappoint the somewhat childish man, Bilbo gently smiled at the two.
“I’m glad to see you both returned home safely. I’ve heard the pub just isn’t the same without you there,” Bilbo commented. Polite chatter was always a good way to get out of sticky situations. He learned as much from dealing with many unsavory relatives. Smaug’s eyes glistened with a dangerous mischief and Bilbo wanted nothing more than to run back to Bag End as fast as his legs could carry him.
“I’m glad we came back early too, my dear,” Smaug countered the neutral comment with a sickeningly sweet remark. Of course, he would, Bilbo chastised himself. What a foolish hope that Smaug would’ve moved on. Gollum finally moved forward and smiled at Bilbo, who happily returned it.
“Mister Gollum, I have a new riddle for you,” Bilbo proudly stated, which immediately lit up the man's somewhat sickly face. Bilbo hoped some of the other hunting members were kind to him and let Gollum share a tent, not wanting to imagine the poor man sleeping outside in the cold. Knowing Smaug, he wouldn’t stoop as low as to have even the most docile creature share something with him. Except for Bilbo. That thought made the young man want to vomit.
“Oh! Please do share, Master Bagginses!”
The slight mispronunciation of Bilbo’s last name was always endearing and giving Gollum his brightest smile, the man began his riddle. “Thirty white horses stand on a red hill. First they champ, then they stamp and then they stand still.”
Gollum and even Smaug seemed somewhat confused by the riddle. Bilbo was quite impressed with himself until his unwanted suitor smiled wickedly at him. Bending down a few inches, Smaug leaned into BIlbo’s ear.
“Quite clever of you, Bilbo. Quite clever indeed.”
Bilbo took a step back and narrowed his eyes, causing Smaug to laugh at him. Laugh! The audacity of this man truly made Bilbo’s blood boil! Biting his tongue to hold back a snarky remark, the blonde turned away and focused on Gollum. Gears were turning in his head before his eyes finally popped open.
“Teeth!”
Smiling and giving a proper applause, Bilbo congratulated the man for answering correctly. Gollum promised to return to Bilbo tomorrow and give the man a riddle that would surely stump him. Bilbo looked forward to that despite having the confidence that no problem could ever confuse him. Smaug didn’t seem as impressed and quickly threw a small coin purse at Gollum.
“Go buy some things for dinner, Gollum. And don’t dilly dally; just head straight home,” he ordered. The small man picked up the coin purse, said his goodbyes and ran off to the market. Hopefully, Hamfast still had some nice produce left for him to purchase. Smaug returned to Bilbo with a fond smile on his face. “I’ve missed you, Bilbo. I hope my absence hasn’t made any other...unworthy suitor too bold to approach you.” He must’ve thought that was just the most charming thing to say; as if he had any claim over the young man. Bilbo let out a breathy laugh before looking out over Dale.
“No, in fact, these past few weeks have been quite silent.” And peaceful.
“Well, I’m glad then. Here, my sweet, I bought these for you.”
The yellow and blue bouquet was quickly shoved into Bilbo’s arms. He was lucky that his basket had fit everything in it, otherwise, he would be overloaded with everything. Not that Smaug would care; he probably already planned for Bilbo to be his personal shopping cart when they went out. Gollum would have at least a break from being the man's personal pack mule for a while.
“Oh these are beautiful, thank you. Though I’m surprised you did not find someone else to focus your charms on while in Mirkwood,” Bilbo responded. Smaug laughed, causing nearby crowds of people to look at them. Some seemed ecstatic that Bilbo wasn’t pushing the man away just yet; while the many lads and lasses who fawned over Smaug glared at the two. Fantastic.
After composing himself, Smaug wrapped an arm around smaller shoulders while his lips curled into a terrifying smile. “Why would I ever need some fancy foreigner when I had you back home? Distance makes the heart grow fonder, Bilbo.”
Great. Just great. Slinking his way out of Smaug’s pinning grasp, Bilbo began to walk away. Smaug followed, as usual, and they fell into a typical discussion. The hunter boasting about his kills and how much money he made of off them. Then, of course, he would try to impress Bilbo about how the other hunters failed to match his incredible skill. It bothered the young man how easy it was for Smaug to pick up their usual routine like no time had passed and how he ignored that Bilbo was not at all interested. Luckily they made it to Bagshot Row fairly quickly, giving Bilbo an opportune time to escape from this dreadful conversation. Smaug stiffened as he saw Bag End come into view and quickly stepped in front of the other.
“Shall we head to The Prancing Pony? I heard they have a new shipment of delectable fish in store for everyone. My treat,” he grinned. Bilbo shook his head before stepping around the other man.
“I do not know if you heard me while we were walking,” the younger spoke already knowing Smaug didn’t, “but Bungo is leaving today. You know I love to spend time with him before he goes.”
Golden eyes narrowed at the incoming green front door. Bilbo quickly swallowed his fear hoping that Smaug would just leave him be. The man smiled in mock politeness and nodded. “Of course, of course. I shall see you later then,” he finished with a flourish and stalked off. Bilbo was very lucky that the man let him go so easily, otherwise, it would be another tiring day of trying to outwit Smaug.
Stepping into his home was very relieving. He hadn’t expected his day to go sour with the unexpected return of his unrelenting tormentor, but now that he was home he could distract himself with chores. Putting the groceries away, restocking the chicken feed, brushing Myrtle, cleaning. It didn’t take long until Bilbo was able to sit down and look at the books Nellie had given him.
Macbeth and Hamlet, both by William Shakespeare. He supposed it made sense as BIlbo never read from this author before. The name was legendary, of course, but he never had the time nor the opportunity to sit down and appreciate these works of literature. Nellie truly was trying to make sure he stayed inside while Bungo was away.
Speaking of Bungo, it was already late afternoon and Bilbo didn’t want his father traveling on an empty stomach. He stretched before heading off to make a nice meal. Something light that would make the man tired on this trip but also something quite filling to keep his energy up. A nice beef stew should work nicely, Bilbo thought to himself as he hurried to the kitchen. Picking up a large pot and setting it on the stove, Bilbo quickly got to make his father’s favorite stew. After pouring water into the pot he began heating up some oil and beef in a skillet. Soon the recipe was the only thing on his mind and he fell into an easy routine. Sear the beef until brown on all sides before transferring to the pot. Cut potatoes, carrots, onions, and celery before adding those too. Sprinkle in salt, pepper, paprika, garlic, bay leaves and allspice into the mix before letting it all simmer. The kitchen was filled with the enchanting aroma of a homemade meal and without thinking, Bilbo began to set the small table for two.
Luckily the smell of food was enough to draw Bungo out of his workshop. He inhaled deeply, sighing as the memories of making this dish with his family filled his mind. His son thankfully inherited the skills of a chef from his mother. In fact, Bilbo was practically another version of her.
“Bilbo, I see you’ve been busy today,” the old man commented as he sat at the table. Bilbo poured him a cup of tea before cutting small pieces of bread for them to munch on until the stew was finished.
“Yes, I would’ve been home earlier if Smaug didn’t bother to walk me home,” the blonde responded with an edge of hatred. Bungo laughed at his son’s obvious distaste in his suitor before frowning.
“Smaug is back already?”
“Unfortunately. And he had the nerve to get me those while also being as cocky as ever! I don’t know how everyone else tolerates him,” Bilbo complained pointing at the bouquet of flowers he put on the windowsill. No need to try to save them when he didn’t want any of Smaug’s gifts in his house.
Bungo rubbed his chin before looking up at his son. “He’s not as horrible as you make him out to seem. He could provide for you when-”
“Oh, not you too! Father please I hate him, you know this!”
“Peace, my boy. I am not happy about this either but...I’m growing old. That’s obvious. I will not have you stay around here to take care of me when Smaug could give you a proper life.”
Bilbo scrunched his nose before turning away to finish the stew. They were served in silence and as Bilbo sat down in his chair, Bungo saw his mind thinking. The brilliant brain his son had was already thinking of a way to convince his father he was fine alone. “I don’t want to fight before you leave,” Bilbo finally said before beginning to eat. They would talk about this when Bungo got back from Esgaroth, that was for sure. But for now they ate and laughed and all seemed right in their small pocket of the world.
-~-
Bungo could have blamed many things on why he got lost. Leaving Bilbo behind was never a good thing especially when his son had turned down Smaug right in front of his face while they were finishing loading the cart with his paintings and music boxes. Bungo had made sure Myrtle was strapped in before turning to see the two bickering. Well, Smaug was instigating and Bilbo was telling him to leave. The man eventually did listen to Bilbo but not before wishing Bungo a safe trip. That seemed to make Bilbo’s mood even worse.
Yes, Bungo could blame it all on his worrying for his son. He also could have argued that the impending storm had made him hurry and rush past signs. In truth, he knew he was on the wrong path when no bridge came into view. It was his own pride of knowing exactly where he was that made this whole mess worse. They were still in the forest but as they went deeper and deeper Bungo knew that he truly had messed up. The signs that were there were faded beyond recognition; all except for one.
Erebor
The name seemed so familiar but Bungo could not figure out why. Perhaps an old town? If he followed it maybe he could get help and in the morning head back to Dale. He’d rather not have Bilbo worry about him and perhaps they could go to the markets together. With a new plan, Bungo set off in the direction of Erebor.
What he saw was most definitely not a town.
Overgrown vegetation covered the steel gates that were thankfully open. Old market stalls and servant homes were abandoned and standing in the center of it all was a grandiose gothic castle. It stood on a rugged slope, invading rose bushes laid against half-ruined walls. The windows dark and gaping as if heading into an eternal abyss. The battlements glistened with ice in the crystal cold air, their ragged outlines blending into the rocks behind. This was wrong, it shouldn’t have been so cold here. It was almost as if this castle were trapped in a permanent frosty state, a cold wasteland while the rest of the world enjoyed a gentle spring.
Bungo was about to turn away when he heard the howling of wolves behind him. No, he couldn’t travel in that especially if they decided to attack Myrtle. Cautiously he dismounted his trusty horse and led her to the castle. There was thankfully a covered stable near the front and Myrtle would be protected from the elements and creatures of the night. Bungo quickly unlatched her from the cart so that if they needed to leave quickly they could. He was troubled that such fresh hay and even water was available. Did...did someone actually still live here?
“Stay here, girl. I’ll go see if anyone is home and see if maybe we could rest here for the night,” Bungo said to the already feasting Myrtle. She snorted in response before turning her attention to the long grass growing inside.
Gathering his courage, the old man stepped back into the chilly air of this strange night. The grand door seemed to impose itself on Bungo making him feel incredibly small. He lifted a hand and knocked on the door. No response. He pounded one more time and was about to turn away when the door silently opened. It didn’t groan like an untouched door would. A chill ran down Bungo’s spin but nonetheless, he stepped inside. No one was there. Not a butler or royal or even a simple homeless villager. Bungo felt incredibly terrified of the empty castle. How did the door open? How did-
“Fili, look!”
“Shut up, Kili, I see him!”
Voices. They sounded like two young teens, perhaps brothers by the way they were bickering. That was some relief, maybe they had fled their home and were in search of somewhere to stay. “Hello?” Bungo called out as he went forward. “I don’t mean to be a bother but the weather and wolves are making travel very difficult. I was hoping to rest for the night.” Nothing. As he made it into the main receiving room, the door slammed shut. The man practically jumped out of his skin and was left in pure darkness.
Before he knew it, six small lights illuminated the dark room. Bungo hurried over to them and saw two of the most beautiful candlesticks he ever saw. They seemed to be modeled off of young princes, each having a candle on their head and holding one in each hand. He traced over some of the designs, completely mesmerized how one had a mustache and the other seemed years younger. But they belonged together like they came from the same maker. “Exquisitely made,” he muttered to himself and if possible to two candles burned brighter. Picking up the two, he headed further into the castle. He was appreciative of the light these found candles brought him, but the cold was still shaking Bungo to his core. Suddenly, a large flame bursted into existence. The room, which Bungo could now see was a living room perhaps for the royal family, was lit up. It seemed clean but filled with many strange things.
On top of the now roaring fireplace were two feather dusters, one with a strange star-shaped handle and the other a small and more delicate version. Next to the fire was a harpsichord, battered and beaten but obviously cared for. On its surface was an old clock, ticking away as if it had no clue the world around it was frozen. Bungo put the two candlesticks on either side of the clock and looked around the room more. To the left of the mantle was a small medicine cabinet, strange placement for such an item but perhaps the family wouldn’t want to run all the way to the infirmary if a child was hurt. Nearby the couch was a small cart with a beautiful teapot and matching teacup. The pot, while seemingly normal, had a strange top; almost like a hat. The cup was very large and could probably hold three servings of tea in one sitting. Finally he saw a hat rat with a chip on the front; still beautiful in its own right.
Bungo cautiously sat down on the cushiony furniture and looked around for any sign of human life. To his dismay, it seemed the two voices he heard earlier had no intention of coming out. He coughed and brought himself closer to the fire.
“Thank you, whoever and wherever you are, for your hospitality,” he called out. Maybe if he showed he meant no harm his host would come out. Bungo swore he felt eyes all on him, especially a heavy piercing one.
“He’s nice, don’t you think?” he heard from his right. It was the younger of the two voices again. Kili, he remembered.
“Yes, nice manners but he seems ill. Perhaps the chill from outside,” an older voice responded. Three people? All afraid to show their faces? They were whispering and probably thought he couldn’t hear them. Maybe it was best to let them keep thinking that.
“Balin, we can’t help him more than we already had. Uncle is probably already furious we let him in,” the oldest teen spoke calmly. Fili, yes that was his name. The older voice was Balin then. At least Bungo had names now.
“Do you think he has a ward? Someone close to Thorin’s age? It could be worth a-”
“Shush!” A new voice interrupted Kili. He seemed around the young teen's age, voice light and fluttery. He was also in front of Bungo, perhaps hiding in the dark. The old man kept his head down as he heard movement.
“Ori, you can’t just move around like that,” Fili chastised though he seemed lenient on criticizing the new speaker.
“We all need to be quiet before he hears us,” Ori hissed back in a hushed tone and the old man realized Ori was over by the original group now. Bungo looked up at the mantle and held back a gasp. The smaller feather duster was gone from its original place. Turning to look at where the group was talking, he saw the missing item next to the older candlestick. The arms of the candles had moved and now the clock stopped ticking. The small and large hand of it almost made a split beard.
He also couldn’t help but notice they all had faces.
They were somewhat human but also like the maker had etched them in. Still, they had eyes that blinked, blinked at him. Bungo stood up in a hurry before backing away. One candle jumped down from the harpsichord (it had legs!?) and headed over to the man. “Please, don’t be scared.”
Oh, sweet Yavanna. That was Kili. Those voices came from the...the objects in the castle. Bungo was panicking, terrified out of his mind and as he backed up he hit something warm. And fury. And alive.
A deep growl emanated from the creature behind him. Bungo quickly spun around and his entire being shook with fear. Standing in front of him was a large beast, covered in dark fur. Its hand like paws had dagger-sharp claws at the end and horns protruding from his head. Somehow the beast wore a large cloak and ripped pants that ended at the knee of wolf-like legs. Bungo had seen nothing like it before and surely it was the thing of nightmares.
“What are you doing in my home?” it growled out. Bungo couldn’t open his mouth and he saw icy blue eyes narrow in frustration. Kili and Fili jumped forward on the mantle and tried to get the beast’s attention.
“Uncle Thorin! Please, we were just helping him! It’s freezing outside and there are wolves and-”
Kili was cut off by the beast, Thorin, snarling at the candles. His nephews? This was too much for Bungo to understand. Was this a curse placed upon the mystery royals? This eternal suffering as objects and monsters? Forgotten in the cold by the rest of the world? Bungo backed away from the beast who had turned his attention back to the old man.
“P-please sir, I’m sorry for intruding. I...I didn’t t-think anyone lived here and I needed a place t-to stay,” he stammered out. The cold outside was nothing compared to the fear inside here. He couldn’t stay and die, he needed to get out and get home to Bilbo. His eyes widened at the thought of his son and he was quickly filled with determination to get out alive.
“I don’t appreciate unwanted guests,” the wretched beast rumbled. Bungo nodded and looked over his shoulder to make sure he didn’t trip over anything. The harpsichord was now moving as well, the keys making a grim expression. Was everything alive here?
“I am deeply sorry, please let me make my exit and I shall never bother you again.”
“How do I know you will not tell others of my home? Will you send them to kill me and my family?”
“N-no, sir! I would never!”
The beast glared at him for a moment before turning away with a dismissive huff. Bungo took this as a chance to turn and run, already thinking of ways to get help. Smaug knew these roads better than anyone and traveled most days off trail. If he got out and stayed alive during the night he could call out for help and hopefully Smaug or his hunting party would hear him.
“Just get Smaug,” he whispered to himself as he headed out.
“What did you say?”
Bungo turned to see the beast watching him with careful eyes. The door was so close to his reach and if he could just make it to Myrtle they could ride off.
“I didn’t-”
“Smaug is a dangerous hunter, I remember his hotheadedness.” The beast paused before looking intently at Bungo. “You mean to tell him of me.”
“No! I just need to find him to help me get home!”
“Lies! I give you a chance to live and you lie to me! Is that how you show gratefulness? You wish to send a hunter to destroy my family!”
The entire castle seemed to shake with the beast’s rage. Thorin, if that even was his true name, lurched forward and tried to grab Bungo but the man somehow made it out of his reach. Running out the door and trying to ignore the roaring behind him, Bungo made it back to Myrtle. She was panicking almost as much as the old man but they were miraculously able to set off before the castle doors swung open again. The wind screamed around Bungo as he urged Myrtle faster and faster. He swore he could hear voices encouraging him to make haste which he was doing without a fault. Wolves or not he would be safer out in the wilderness than in a cursed castle with a horrible monster as its king.
Bam!
They didn’t even make it past the gates. The beast had jumped in front of them and landed with a terrifying thud. His eyes glowed with rage and hate, yet Bungo could see an unknown fear. The old man began to shake, from the cold or the panic of being killed he did not know. Myrtle, the ever brave horse was in full survival mode, her legs pushing them forward in a hurried attempt to escape. Yet, in one swift motion, the beast grabbed Bungo off of the steed who, not noticing her missing rider, rode off into the night.
Leaving Bungo Baggins at the mercy of a terrible beast.
-~-
It was already past mid-day. Bilbo knew he shouldn’t be worried; perhaps the merchants of Esgaroth were just keeping Bungo enticed in conversation. But this had happened before and Bungo always promised his son he would be home before the respected time for lunch passed. They were reaching supper time now.
Even reading the wonderful books Nellie had lent him could calm the young man down. He was panicking and dreadful thoughts all raced through his head. What if he got sick on the road? The weather was particularly nasty last night and an old man had no reason to be out there. What about the wolves? Granted they didn’t usually attack travelers but a lone man with a well-fed horse? Twas a perfect target for a hungry pack.
It would do no good to sit and worry all day. Bilbo decided he would head out to town and see if anyone had any news on his father. Grabbing a cloak to keep the light rain from ruining his shirt, Bilbo set off in search of Bungo.
The Gamgee’s, as resourceful and observant as they were, had no news about Bungo what so ever. Nellie and Amelia were at a loss as well though they promised him his father would be home safely and soon. The merchants and neighbors and school boys and farmers and everyone else Bilbo could think of to speak too had not seen the man since his departure yesterday. Thinking off all the places his father could’ve went too Bilbo headed off towards the Great Hall.
Bard kept his doors open for all to come and speak to him. Luckily no one seemed to be with the Lord of Dale at the moment and Bilbo was quickly able to address this issue.
“My, that does seem so unlike him. And you're sure no one has seen him?”
“Yes, my lord. I was praying beyond hope that he would’ve stopped by here but-”
“Bilbo!” Smaug interrupted as he marched into the receiving room. Gollum was shuffling behind him along with a few members of the hunting party. Bilbo eyed Azog and his son Bolg, two abnormally pale and large men who fortunately didn’t bother the young man as much as Smaug did. Still, it was a blessing that they stayed back near the entrance rather than crowding Bilbo like their leader was doing.
“I’ve been hearing all day about how you’ve been looking for your father,” Smaug began as he frowned slightly. Bilbo narrowed his eyes skeptically before nodded in response.
“Well, I hate to be the bearer of bad news but we have found something.”
Bilbo’s stomach dropped, his fists shaking. This was awful, absolutely awful! Whatever Smaug had found would certainly spell bad things for Bungo’s situation. He didn’t know what they meant; was it a torn piece of cloth? Blood? His...his body? Bilbo felt tears building in his eyes as he stared at the taller man for an answer.
“Myrtle came storming into town just a few minutes ago,” Smaug finally said. Bilbo blinked before rushing past everyone in the hall. Sure enough, a few stablemen were trying to calm down the raging horse. Bilbo ignored everyone’s shouting as he focused on calming down his horse himself. After a few moments, Myrtle focused on Bilbo and they looked intently at one another.
“Take me to him.”
The horse neighed and allowed Bilbo to settle on top of her. Smaug, Gollum, and Bard were staring at him in confusion, along with many of the townsfolk. Bell Gamgee pushed past the crowd as the young man began to ride off.
“Where are you going?!”
“To find my father!”
Before anyone could respond, Myrtle took off out of Dale. Bilbo had no idea where the horse was going to take him but he trusted her to lead him to his father. Was it foolish to rush off out of the blue to find Bungo? Yes, of course, it was. But there was no telling how much danger Bungo was in and Bilbo was not going to let his father down.