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LOTR: TMCP Ch. 48
🕑 Added 2025-07-12 16:41:15 +0000 UTC"Our meeting wasn't by chance, was it, Gandalf?"
"Of course not. It was no coincidence."
Gandalf spoke slowly, "The matter of Erebor has always troubled me, Thorin. That dragon has been entrenched there for far too long. Sooner or later, it will draw the attention of something even more evil."
Erebor was a vital defensive position.
If it were breached and occupied by dark forces, they could use it as a pathway to march north, straight to Angmar.
At that point, the Witch-realm of Angmar might even have opportunity for restoration.
Evil's claws would reach through this route, bypass the southern defenses, and extend directly into the peaceful lands west of the Misty Mountains. When that time came, even places like Lindon and the Shire, always distant from the heart of conflict, would face grave peril. As for Gondor and Rohan, they would be assailed from all directions.
When the fortress falls, none can remain secure, no one could escape untouched.
"I encountered some foolish brigands on the Greenway. They mistook me for a vagabond."
"I imagine their fate wasn't particularly pleasant."
Thorin possessed some understanding of what wizards were capable of.
Gandalf nodded and produced a sheet of sturdy parchment.
"I found this upon them, a bounty notice."
"A bounty for what?"
"For your head, someone desires you dead. We cannot delay any longer. You are the heir of Durin, rightful King under the Mountain. If you can unite the dwarven hosts, you will possess the strength to reclaim Erebor. Summon a council of the seven dwarven houses, make them honor their ancient oaths."
Thorin fell silent for a moment. In theory, if he could rally the dwarven forces, it was indeed possible to retake the Lonely Mountain, but...
"The Seven Armies of the Dwarves swore fealty to the bearer of the King's Jewel."
That so-called King's Jewel was the Arkenstone, the Heart of the Mountain, a magnificent gem currently guarded by the dragon.
"Only with the Arkenstone can I summon them. But have you forgotten? Smaug claimed it long ago."
Gandalf kept his gaze fixed on the two ruffians nearby until he compelled them to depart the inn. Then he said, "What if I assist you in retrieving it?"
"How? It lies beneath the feet of a dragon."
"Indeed. That's why we require a burglar."
Gandalf possessed a strong intuition that this mission required a hobbit. That was crucial.
They were small, light-footed, moved without sound, and could easily blend into their surroundings. Natural-born sneaks, perfect for the role of a "burglar."
Quietly settling on the choice of burglar in his mind, he lit his pipe and, after contemplating for a moment, continued,"And also a valiant warrior, he might be willing to join our cause."
That fellow would definitely find this matter intriguing, his instincts assured him so.
And thus, the outline of a plan took shape.
Thorin, newly returned from the wilds of the Ettenmoors, and Gandalf, fresh from extensive travels of his own, wasted no time departing together for the Blue Mountains to discuss detailed plans and gather members for the expedition.
After all arrangements were settled, Gandalf departed first.
"I must locate a friend. Afterward, we'll meet in the Shire. I'll leave a mark upon the door."
He took his leave.
Soon after, Thorin and twelve dwarves who answered the call armed themselves and took the same road as Gandalf.
---
In April of the year 2941 of the Third Age, near the region of Bree-land, Gandalf leaned upon his staff, standing on a high ridge, gazing at the vast and surprisingly tranquil domain, frowning slightly.
The more he observed, the more compelled he felt to light his pipe.
"Where have I arrived? Is this still Bree-land?"
This "roadside stronghold" didn't feel much like countryside anymore.
Though he hadn't yet entered the territory, the verdant growth spilling over from the walls and glimpses of scenery at the edges had already stirred his senses.
As he watched, suddenly he noticed someone waving at him from atop the wall.
Gandalf raised his staff and waved it twice in response.
On the wall, Garrett walked to the gate, operated the lever to open the iron doors, and waited calmly for the wizard's arrival.
"Haha, how have you fared lately, Garrett?"
From quite a distance, just within earshot, Gandalf began his greeting.
"Not badly. Well, more or less. I haven't felt time pass this quickly in a long while."
At the moment, Garrett wore only a pair of enchanted netherite boots with feather falling on his feet; the rest of him was dressed in ordinary garments, no armor.
He appeared just like a relaxed townsman. And truthfully, he was quite at ease... aside from some weariness from all the construction work.
"Oh, by my beard, incredible."
As he neared the gate, Gandalf was immediately captivated by the scenery within. He couldn't help but lean aside, attempting to look past Garrett.
"Is this still the wilderness of Eriador? I could have sworn I'd arrived in Rivendell!"
"Thanks. I did undertake some renovations around the territory."
"Some renovations?"
Gandalf raised an eyebrow. "You certainly have a gift for understatement."
A friend had arrived, naturally, he couldn't be left standing at the gate. Soon, Garrett welcomed Gandalf into the stronghold. After a brief rest, he even personally prepared several dishes.
The two of them sat at table, dining and conversing.
"Honestly, if I didn't know you, I would have assumed this was some newly established elven homeland."
"I did borrow a bit from Rivendell's aesthetic."
"So this is what has occupied you these past months?"
Garrett nodded.
Thanks to his continual construction and planning, the territory now truly resembled a large, well-administered settlement, no longer a disconnected collection of scattered areas with vacant plots between.
Gandalf glanced through the window at the elaborate scenery and remarked, "Everything here is magnificent, the only regret is that it's too quiet. Apart from yourself, there isn't another soul present. And I'd suggest smoothing some of the edges on your structures. They appear splendid now, certainly, but the corners are so sharp that if someone accidentally struck one, it would truly hurt. By the way, what's that large pool over there? I hope you don't mind my directness, but it feels somewhat out of place with the rest of the surroundings."
"Good suggestions, and that's my ice harvesting area. I collect ice blocks there during winter. Spring came too suddenly this year, and I haven't had opportunity to dismantle it."
"Ice harvesting?"
Is that how ice is gathered?
Gandalf was puzzled momentarily, but then, remembering it was Garrett, he dismissed it.
They ate leisurely, chatting intermittently. He spoke of his recent time north of the Shire, about some short-sighted brigands on the Greenway, as well as the situation with scattered wanderers in that region.
"Wanderers..."
Garrett repeated the word, then inquired, "Do you know a ranger named Halbarad? I haven't seen him since we parted last time."
"No, I don't."
Gandalf shook his head. He possessed an extensive network of acquaintances, but not so vast as to know everyone in Middle-earth.
"But I can make inquiries for you. If I discover any relevant information, I'll inform you."
"Oh, no need, I only asked because you mentioned wanderers. With his skills, he should be fine."
"Let us hope so."
With that topic concluded, Gandalf finished the last portion of meat on his plate, set down his utensils, and said, "Actually, the reason I'm here this time is to inquire if you're interested in joining an expedition."
"Expedition?" Garrett's eyes lit up as something clicked.
Yes, of course, it was about that time.
"I knew a wizard wouldn't drop by without a purpose. So tell me more, what's this expedition you're talking about?"
