[Himaran]

SAVE FOR ANY OTHER LAST POSTS

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Novnarwen's post -Dwalin

It was a silent company that set out that day. When thinking about what they had been through, especially after the last event, Dwalin understood why. Now he found himself deep in thought however. Not only had he doubted that his brother was alive, been bitten by a snake, lost the map, seen Kain die, but he'd also promised these dwarves treasures. In fact, Dwalin had to admit, he had imagined mountains of gold and oceans of silver. Unfortunately, that had only been a dream not coming true. All they had was the crystal ball they had taken from the Rhuians, and what were they supposed to do with it? Dwalin didn't at all mind Hænir wanting to give it back to the Rhuians, as he would certainly not find it in useful in any way.

The lack of treasures and their misfortune was eating Dwalin up inside, as they walked in silence. And if that wasn't enough, he kept thinking about the second voice in his head; the one that had said all those things about him being jealous at Bali. Had he not proven himself in the chamber, when he had saved his brother's life? Dwalin frowned, being ashamed of himself. How should he not have saved him? They were brothers! And yes, he cared for him very much. Was he really jealous, or did he just admire him? Those were two very different things, but hard to tell apart. Deciding that he would have to think this through, he snorted and followed the others.

Soon, the company found themselves looking into the eyes of one of the Rhuians; a woman. Dwalin had seen her in the chamber. She, too, had stood stricken, as if the world was about to end when the dwarves threatened to destroy the orb. At the time, Dwalin hadn't felt anything. He hadn't offered her a thought. Now on the other hand, he realised, by looking at her, that it was right to give it back. As Hænir handed the crystal ball of to the woman, Dwalin smiled. They hadn't found any treasures, but Dwalin settled with the thought of Hænir showing such nobility was a treasure in itself. He only hoped that the others settled with this thought as well.

***

For each step however, as they got closer and closer to Erebor, Dwalin had difficulties coping and believing that they were on their way home from a perilous adventure. It had only brought but misfortune to all of them, so it was no wonder why he couldn’t cope with it. Or was it? After the company passed the sea of where Kain had died, Dwalin couldn't stop thinking of this event. Had it been his fault? After all, it had been he who had dragged the dwarves out on this quest. And what did any of them come home with except a story about bad fortune and much misery? He shook his head. At last, Dwalin had made up his mind.

"I need to talk to you," he whispered into Bali's ear. "But it can wait until we get home."

He turned his gaze to sky as they were coming out from the jungle. Far ahead he could spot a bird, flying. Was it coming towards them, to meet them, or would it be waiting for them when they came hurrying along the road out of Rhûn? Dwalin wondered.