The Prophecy

Smaug, Wakey Wakey

Zarina followed Balin and Bilbo as they walked through a tunnel leading deeper into the mountain. She couldn't see much of Erebor yet, but figured that the mountain would become more interesting deeper in. On the way Balin reminded Bilbo why he was their burglar to begin with, filling him in about what he was to steal.

"You want me to find a jewel?" the hobbit asked as they stopped at another turn.

"A large white jewel, yes." The dwarf replied.

"Wouldn't there be quite a few white jewels down there?" Zarina asked sceptically, "From what I've heard, it's a treasure room down there."

"There is only one Arkenstone." Balin said and looked at Bilbo before continuing down another hallway, "You'll know it when you see it."

The hobbit nodded, still not completely sure what he should be looking for really, "Alright."

Balin began to walk down the tunnel with Bilbo and Zarina on his heels, but then paused. He sighed, "In truth, lad, I do not know what you will find down there." He sounded concerned, "You needn't go if you don't want to, there's no dishonour in turning back."

Bilbo quickly stopped him, "No, Balin, I promised I would do this, and I think I must try."

Zarina admired his courage. She couldn't believe that that was the same hobbit she had to force to leave his home to join them on this adventure, the same hobbit who lost his mind when discovering that he had forgotten his handkerchief, the same hobbit who barely knew how to ride on a pony.

Balin looked at Bilbo, then began to chuckle appreciatively, "It never ceases to amaze me."

Bilbo frowned, "What's that?"

"The courage of Hobbits." The dwarf answered, causing Bilbo to smile as he felt flattered by the compliment, "Go now with as much luck as you can muster." He nodded to leave, but Balin stopped him a final time, "Oh, and Bilbo...if there is, in fact, a live dragon down there, don't waken it."

Bilbo suddenly looked worried but nodded. He walked a few more steps before turning around to ask a question, only to find Balin had already left. Zarina remained though, wanting to see her friend off.

"Bilbo." she smiled encouragingly at him, "Do you have any idea how proud I am of you?"

He smiled back, "I take it a lot? If I do recall correctly, you were the one who left her dress in my house, making me feel obliged to return it to her."

She chuckled and pulled him in for a hug, "Be careful. If you die, I'm going to kill you."

Bilbo broke a smile, "Then I promise I won't die. The only thing that terrifies me more than a fire breathing dragon is an angry-out-for-blood Zarina."

Zarina snorted at his joke. The two shared final glances before the hobbit continued down the tunnel until he was out of sight. She inhaled shakily, nervous for his part, before turning around to head back to the Company. However, she didn't take notice when following Balin earlier and Zarina found herself lost when reaching three different turns.

"Balin!" she called and waited for an answer.

Nothing came.

"Balin!" she tried again.

But still nothing.

Zarina thought about just staying there until one of the dwarves would notice she's missing and come looking for her, when something moved in the shadows of one of the tunnels. Zarina's heartbeat picked up and her hand fell to her sword, ready to fight if she had to. The thing approached her, and she drew her sword threateningly.