AN: I don't own Lord of the Rings, Gimli, or any other characters in this fic, unless i specify otherwise. (Sorry this is so short, this is my first fanfic and i'm still trying. Please be patient, but any feedback is wanted!) Also, I'v edited this, in hope that i'v made it more dwarf like. Anyone who could help me with this, I'd love the help! anyway... onto the story!

Introduction

Gimli walked amongst the workers, watching them forge the beautiful mithril. He sighed, never more at home than when hearing the ringing of hammers. The work was going well. The forging of the gates of Minas Tirith was well underway and Gimli was pleased with the progress. In little more than a month they were already up to the final touches. It just went to show how much a group of dedicated dwarves could do. And the quality! The sheer workmanship! Now that was something to be reckoned with. Gimli laughed out loud, his deep booming laugh echoing all around the Glittering Caves.

One of the workers looked up to see what he was laughing about, but Gimli only smiled at him and walked on.

He was on his way to see Thorin Stonehelm, the Overlord of the Aglarond. Although many people regarded Gimli as the Lord of the caves, it was really Thorin who ran the place. Gimli really didn't want to be tied down, and unable to visit his friends without worrying that his city would go to ruin, so he mearly played the public face for Thorin.

Gimli stopped outside Thorin's meeting chambers, inspecting his axe for rust. Satisfied, he entered. "Greetings Thorin, son of Dáin."

"Welcome Gimli son of Gloin. What brings you to my chambers?"

"I have come to discuss my leaving."

"Ah. In that case, please, sit." Thorin indicated to a stone seat next to him by the long council table.

Gimli sat, leaning his axe against the chair. "As you know, I have been wanting to visit my friends for quite some time."

Thorin sighed, stroking his beard. "You told me of this quite a while ago."

"Yes, I have been planning this for a while."

"How soon is it that you intend to leave?"

"Within the fortnight."

Thorin looked alarmed. "So soon?"

"If I do not leave then, I will never go. How can I bring myself to leave such a glorious place?"

"But you will miss the finishing of the gate! That which you have overseen and worked on with such skill and love! Surley you would not miss that!?"

"I'm afraid I must. I am needed elsewhere."

Thorin inclined his head. "I wish you did not need to go, but I shall provide you with all that you need for your journey. Farewell."

Gimli accepted the dismissal, he stood and bowed. "Farewell."

Thorin nodded, and Gimli left the chamber. He had much to do if he were to reach Mirkwood in time.