After supper, Thorin’s company asked me to recount the travels of my group for a while. I had met all of the company before they had left on the quest for Erebor, but I did not know most too well. Balin and Dwalin, for example, I have known all of my days and it is as pleasing to see them again as it is my close kin. Those that had only been introduced to me a year ago introduced themselves again and we talked for a while.
After, I made my way back to the royal rooms, though I waited before heading to bed. I found a terrace, over looking the land that was lit only by the moonlight. I also found Thorin, sitting quietly on the terrace. His thoughts must have been quite distant, as he gave a small jump when I tugged at his braid. I asked what exactly had his thoughts in such tangles while I stood behind him, using my fingers to comb actual tangles from his hair.
Thorin was quiet for several long minutes but I know how he broods and thinks and knew to wait for him to find the right words. He finally confessed to thinking of lands beyond Erebor, back to the green fields that marked the beginning of the quest. I stated that he missed his Hobbit, as it was clear as the nose on his face. He didn’t deny it, just sighed and let me continue combing through his hair.
We stayed outside for a while, until I could feel sleep calling to me. I made Thorin stand and walk me back to my room, lest he stay outside and think all night. He wished me a good night and said that he was glad to have me here. I told him to sleep and he gave a nod and left me at my door.