Heavy loses ||Bilbo | Dís||
Word had reached him them that Dís, Thorin's sister, was making her way to the Lonely Mountain. She had no doubt received word of their reclaiming Erebor trough the help of the ravens that still dwelt on the mountain. Since Smaug's fall their numbers had grown considerably, and this was regarded as a good thing.
But to hear that she was coming-- it made the company that lingered there, who knew her sons ans brother well, uncomfortable beyond measure. Not least of all Bilbo. He had wanted to go back, and Gandalf waited patiently on the hobbit regarding his decision, to escort him safely back to the Shire. But for now Bilbo felt it his task to remain, at least until Dís arrived. They all owed her an explanation, he felt.
He dwelt there for a time with Dáin's leave. The reconstruction of Erebor had already began, as well as Dale. To see both places getting cleaned and rebuilt with the help of both men and dwarves was oddly inspirational., and Bilbo watched them often with little else to do.
Birds flew in and out of Erebor, bearing news from all corners that would concern them. Until finally one spoke of the arrival of Dís herself. She was less than a day away and would arrive that afternoon, if the bird was to be believed. So Bilbo waited at the gate-- now open to all once more. The lady was hard to miss. He could see her coming, greeted already by those who had business outside of gates.
It was difficult not to share the same mournful expression as those who were on the road. He put up the most welcoming smile that he could manage at this time, which with all things considered, fell a little short. Bilbo walked out of the gate to meet her half way, bowing before her.
“Bilbo Baggins, at your service. Welcome to Erebor, Lady Dís.”
