Oh, yes, I have started another romance story involving Thorin, because I am honest to goodness in love with the character. This idea has stuck in my mind for the last month or so, and since I've hit a bit of a roadblock on my other story (I will return to it! Promise!), I figured I'd see what might come of this idea. So here's the first little bit. If you like it, please let me know and I shall continue :)
It was the letter, the one bearing the Ironfoot crest upon the front, which reignited his temper.
"I have agreed to Dain's proposition, but, Balin, it does not mean that I am comfortable with the arrangement." Thorin braced his arms on either side of the table, his head bowed. His eyes took yet another pass at what was written upon the parchment. He turned to regard his friend and advisor.
"I understand your reservations, laddie, but this was what was agreed upon. You accepted Dain as your ally and welcomed his support. You have reclaimed the mountain. Dain knew it would not have been possible without him. This is the cost, for lack of a more fitting word," replied Balin.
"It was a sly tactic. Using his daughter to embed himself, permanently, into Erebor."
Balin gave Thorin a strange smile. "Sly, but still effective."
A grumble bubbled up from his throat as Thorin returned his gaze to the table before him. "How old is she, exactly?" he inquired.
A deep sigh escaped Balin. "Eighty-five."
Thorin tightened his grip upon the edge of the table, struggling to maintain his calm. "Mahal, she is barely of age. I am over one hundred years her senior. What does Dain expect me do with someone so young. It is madness." He brought his hand to his face and rubbed at his temples.
"I believe he will expect you to care for her, to treat her well. Young she may be, but youth is not without its assets." Balin paused, his expression softening, before continuing. "I know of your yearning for fatherhood. She will most certainly allow you to attain it."
"That time has long since passed," Thorin spoke between clenched teeth. "She is a child. How am I to be expected to bed a child?"
Balin's expression became stern. "Erebor could do far worse in a Queen, as could you. Despite your objections, and they are just, Thorin, it is as good a match as could be arranged. Dain's political agenda aside, he would not give his daughter to anyone. You are a good man, Thorin. I have no doubt you will treat her with tenderness and care."
"I have no need for her." Thorin's words and speech were saturated with frustration and anger. "I do not have the time, nor the patience, to be guardian of some Dwarfling female. My focus is on rebuilding Erebor. I will do this if I must, but I will not allow it to get in the way of what I have longed for for so many years."
"There is no way out of it?" he questioned wearily, despite already knowing the answer.
Balin shook his head."Unless you desire constant conflict and war with the Iron Hills, I believe not. We need to maintain peace with Dain. With his daughter here, his support will be offered unquestioningly."
Thorin made no audible reply, but Balin could clearly see the tension within his shoulders. He approached him and laid his hand upon Thorin's shoulder. "Their party will arrive within the week. Do not take your displeasure out on the girl. It is not her doing. It will not be so bad. You'll see."