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“That’s quite a tale, indeed,” Hænir said through mouthfuls of meat. “Although I’ve never heard the full story, it is one I’ve heard before. All the King’s Companions are very well aware of your exploits – how could we not be aware of the doings of our King’s own nephew!” He smiled at Bali and spoke in answer to the question in his eye. “I have not spoken of it before, as you did not. I did not know if you would relish of having one of the Companions with you – I assumed that part of your reasons for journeying forth on this adventure were to escape your life in Erebor, for whatever reason. I knew that I could only be a reminder of that life.
“But you ask to know somewhat of me. Indeed, Nerin and I have spoken much on this journey, but even to him I have not revealed much. Having been alone for so long, and unused to the company of friends I have not the practice I need to unburden myself. But I shall do my best, if it will do you ease; for I see that you wish to know more of the folk with whom you are likely to be spending your last days!
“I was fostered by the King at a young age, when my parents were killed by orcs during our journey from the Iron Hills. I fought by the King’s side in the War of the Ring – many of the Companions fell about him that day, but we were unable to save him. Alas! That I was forced to live beyond that day, carrying the shame of having outlived it when my lord did not!”
Bali said the words that many had uttered to Hænir over the years, “It was not your fault; I’m sure you fought with great honour and did requite yourself well – you must not bear the burden of that guilt!” But Hænir only smiled wanly and shook his head, “Nay, lad,” he said sadly, “I know all that, and I’ve heard it from many a Dwarf as I look up to and respect, your uncle among them! But I cannot feel it in my heart. I should have fallen that day in defence of my King, but the numbers were too many. They parted us and I was knocked down and unconscious before I could join him in death. This is why I have travelled on this journey…” He looked at Bali with a stern frankness and thought for a long moment before speaking next. When he did so, he spoke evenly but Bali could tell that it was only with a great effort. “When I heard that the King’s own nephew was going on a near hopeless journey to near certain death, and that he was doing so without so much as a single one of his uncle’s troops or Companions to protect him…well, the memory of my failure in the War began to stir and I saw why I had been spared. I would not let the issue of my King’s blood go into isolation and death unaccompanied. I left the service of my King and joined your party – if not to protect you, to at least die by your side. I have done the first already, now I hope that if it comes to pass, I will be able to the other with honour!”
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