[ Don't look at him like that, Thorin. It's not polite. Now, Bilbo has grown quite accustomed to Thorin's favor toward absolutes: this will happen, nothing will prevent them, there will be no failure. Thorin pushes until there's no space left for doubt or despair and then pushes some more, until all those within the sound of his voice can't help but think this all won't be for naught. That sheer determination has been the only constant in their quest. So it's interesting – disheartening? – that there's a change.

Whether or not he returns?

Usually, Bilbo is mindful to not stare, but propriety aside, he openly watches the other, eyes wide and a slight furrow between. One, two, and then his head tilts, as though needing a new angle to understand, before his gaze just as abruptly narrows. Oh for the—

Of all things to say.]

Ridiculous. [ Bilbo does, occasionally, have his moments of bravery – or perhaps this is foolishness – which leaves the reprimand to come out in a huff. As always though, this particular hobbit's agitation translates into fiddling, and he bides the following moment with sitting straighter and gripping his mug tighter. ] Speaking as though you won't be, be... [ King under the mountain. He shakes his head and then doubles back to nod once instead. ] A Baggins always keeps his word. I will see you seated on your throne.

[ Well. To be fair, he swore to take back their home, but having all his the dwarves safe and merry, with Thorin continually at the lead, is synonymous with the task. ]