daughterofforgottenkings:

A proud grin makes it’s way onto her features, her eyes glimmering with a renewed brightness. They had been through much, all of them, through dragonfire and war and ash, but ever is she reminded of who has been at her side through it all. “Always will the Lonely Mountain aid you, Bard, you have my word in that. Anything that you and your people need, we will see it as best we can.”

Nodding assertively, she leans into his touch and gently squeezes his forearm, “They will look to us, Bard, and I would have them seen friendship. Too long has it been since last the Free Peoples of the East stood as one. If you would consider it, Fili and I would seek a true alliance between Dale and Erebor.” 

The words left Bard briefly breathless. For so long had it all rested on his shoulders - taking care of his family, appeasing the Master, ensuring the people of Esgaroth would not waste away - that the mere idea of sharing his concerns with others, others who meant him well, who cared deeply for him (and he for them), was somewhat overwhelming, and endlessly touching.

“It is my heart’s wish to see the same come to pass,” he whispered. He knew leading the people of Esgaroth, rebuilding Dale, would be his responsibility, but it was a relief indeed to know he had true friends not so very far away.