|
"She has a point. About not sending you alone, I mean."
Óin looked indignant. "I can handle myself alone!" he announced, slinging his axe proudly over his shoulder. "I need no assistance."
He looked towards the path to the Gate, and suppressed the urge to shudder. He could handle himself. He needed...a really, really strong ale. Flori was looking at him, waiting for him to continue.
"If I need help, Lin going with me will not..." He paused so his voice wouldn't break. "If more than one person is needed, two won't..."
He coughed violently. "I'll go! I'll go. The rest of you decide who else will come. I will fulfill my duty for Balin."
I couldn't help him, but maybe I can help the others, he thought as he took a deep breath and started for the Gate.
|