Chapter 6 The Dispute
The next day after the incident with Curr, the family of Oakenshield: Thorin, Susy, Dwalin, and Balin headed to the Blue Mountain Inn's tavern. Thorin was carrying Oren Bee, who was asleep at the moment, as they entered the Inn. They were having Erla's dispute heard that day, in Bombur's tavern. Brodall was acting judge, but he had asked Xander the wizard to create a "truth" crystal for the hearing. Curr was acting for Erla, and will ask questions from Erla and Dwalin. Dwalin still have not selected someone to act for him. He knew he cannot ask someone who is related by blood to him, so that left Bofur, Bombur, Bifur, Feeney, and the ladies of the dwarves. Dwalin did not want Bofur, since he is sometimes acts naive about things, which Curr would use against him. Bombur gets befuddled too easily, and no one can understand Bifur. Feeney was related to Curr, and that would not be allowed. Dwalin was worried, and told Thorin and Balin his problem.
The three dwarves and one woman sat down, where Brodall pointed out for them to sit at. Taffi was not there, she was working at the bakery for her Ma. Bofur, Bombur, Bifur, and Devie were sitting behind Thorin and the others. The visiting kin were sitting next to Thorin, and Oren Bee. Feeney and Dis looked sadly at Dwalin, as Gloin whispered sharply with Oin. The two dwarves were glaring at Erla and Curr. Dori, Ori, and Nori were sitting next to Bombur and his kin, feeling sad for Dwalin, as they whisper among themselves.
"Dwalin, where is Mer? "asked Susy.
"She is staying with Fili and Lilybelle, until this is over. I think Kili and Tauriel are with them as well. The lads are fishing behind the forge, watching over Mer for me, "said a sad Dwalin.
"It will turn out fine, brother, "said Balin, as he patted his brother's hand.
"I wish you were not my brother, Balin. I know you can defend me from these tricksters, "lamented Dwalin, as he watched a smirking Erla and Curr.
"I know brother, "said Balin, as he sat next to Susy and Dwalin.
"What are the rules, Balin? "asked Susy.
"Dwalin cannot speak for himself, he has to appoint someone to speak and ask questions for him. It has to be a dwarf or someone related to him. It cannot be someone related by blood, so that leaves me out to act for my brother, "said a sad Balin.
"Too bad Susy cannot act for you, Dwalin. She is much more clever than that pompous fool over there, "said Thorin, who was glaring at a self-centered Curr. A smile broke out on Dwalin and Balin's faces, as they looked at Thorin's wife.
"She is not related by blood, but she is related by marriage, "stated Balin, as Susy looked at her dear Balin, with surprise.
"And I know she is very clever, "said a smiling Dwalin, Susy started to protest.
"Wife, you would be saving Dwalin and Mer's marriage, and maybe Mer and Karn's lives, "said Thorin.
"What do you mean their lives? "asked a confused Susy.
"If a dwarf gets a female with child, and they are not wed when the child was born…then that dwarf must kill the female and child. If they prove here that Dwalin and Mer's marriage is not legal, Dwalin must kill Mer and Karn, "said a sad Thorin.
"What?! I will act for you, Dwalin. I will find out the truth, you wait and see, "said a determine Susy, as she stood up with Dwalin.
Brodall was sitting at a table, with Xander by his side. The wizard was the only man allowed to watch this court, for he was not a dwarf or related to anyone there. Xander also was writing down what was being said. Bombur's sons and Crager were keeping order in the court.
"Please all will be quiet, and we will start, "said Brodall. "Erla, who did you appoint to speak for you? "
"I have selected Curr, for he is a clever fellow, "stated Erla, as she smirked at Dwalin.
"Fine fine, Erla. Dwalin, who did you pick to speak for you? "asked Brodall, as he showed Xander where to write Curr's name in the record.
"I have selected Lady Susy Oakenshield to speak for me, "stated a proud Dwalin, as everyone looked up with surprise.
"You cannot pick her! She is not a dwarf! "screamed Erla.
"But she is related by marriage, being married to Dwalin's distant cousin, Thorin, "stated Brodall. "Welcome Lady Oakenshield. " Brodall nodded to Susy, who nodded back.
"Do not worry, Erla. She is a stupid man's woman. I am more cunning than any man's woman, "stated Curr, as Erla smiled.
"Erla, please tell this court your dispute against Dwalin, son of Fundin, "said Brodall.
"For many years since we were children, Dwalin declared that he loved me, and only me. When we have grown, he vowed that he would not marry anyone, except me. So, when I arrived looking for him, I found that he had wed another, "said an angry Erla.
"Why did you not wed, when he had vow it? "asked Curr.
"When he had made that vow, it was the day before Smaug attacked the palace. I waited for Dwalin to rescue me from the palace, but the coward had run off, "stated a sneering Erla. Bombur's sons had to restrain Dwalin, who was angry at being called a coward in court.
"So, who had rescued you, Erla? "asked Curr, who was smirking at an angry Dwalin.
"I was rescued by Idriss. "
Xander was watching the crystal, which turned blue when the person told the truth.
"Your turn, woman, "snapped Curr.
"Curr, you will treat the Lady Oakenshield with respect, or I will charge you a silver coin for any snide remarks, "warned Brodall.
"As you wish, Brodall, "simper Curr, as he bowed to the head dwarf of Little Logan's council.
"Master Brodall, may I ask Dwalin two questions, before I ask Mistress Erla her questions? "asked Susy.
"You may, Lady Oakenshield, "replied a smiling Brodall, as Xander tried to keep the smile off his face, as he knows how sneaky Susy is.
"Dwalin, why did you not go looking for Erla, when the dragon attacked Erebor? "asked Susy.
"I did go looking for Erla, and met Idriss coming from one of the passages. Idriss told me, he had found her dead and broken body. He said it was best for me not to see her body, because it would haunt me for the rest of my life, "replied Dwalin.
"So, you thought she was dead? "asked Susy.
"Yes. I was numb, when Idriss told me this. Then, Thorin asked for my help to lead Karn Barr away from Erebor, for he wishes to kill the dragon for killing his parents in Dale, "stated Dwalin.
"LIAR! "screamed Erla, who stood up.
"Control Erla, Curr. We will not have any outburst in this court! "warned Brodall.
"He did not lie, the crystal is blue, "stated Xander, as Curr try to calm Erla and sits her down.
"Please continue, Lady Oakenshield, "said Brodall.
"Erla, why have you not looked for Dwalin before? "asked Susy.
"I did not know where he was. It was by chance I was visiting Erebor, when I talked to Dis about the dwarves of her family. She told me where Dwalin was, "said Erla, as she glared at Susy. Susy was thinking about the situation, when she realized something important that she needed to ask.
"Where have you been all this time away from Dwalin? "inquired Susy.
"I was living in the Iron Hills with Idriss' family, "said Erla, quietly.
"Why with his family? "asked a confused Susy.
"They were my friends, "said Erla, quickly.
"She is lying, "stated Xander, as everyone can see the crystal had turned red.
"Why lie, Erla? Unless….You were married to Idriss?! "asked a surprise Susy.
"No! "shouted Erla, as she stood.
"Red crystal, "stated Xander.
"Where is Idriss, Erla? "asked Susy.
Erla sadly sat down, and said, "The fool got himself killed at the battle for Erebor. His family turned me out, because they said I drove Idriss to war. He would rather die, then live another day with me. So now, I got no home, no children, and no one to care for me. I knew that Dwalin would take me as his wife, as he promised. "
"Do you love, Dwalin? "asked Susy.
Erla looked Dwalin in the eyes, and said, "No, I have never loved Dwalin. I just knew he was related to Thorin, who might show favor on him. " Dwalin looked sadly at a cold Erla.
"The crystal is blue, "stated Xander.
"I think I have heard enough. Yes, there was a vow between Erla, daughter of Gare and Dwalin, son of Fundin. Dwalin, son of Fundin did not break the vow, for he thought Erla was dead. So, he had wed the widow Mer, with free conscious. Erla broke the vow, when she wed Idriss. She is guilty of falsehood against Dwalin, son of Fundin, as well as breaking their vow. So, Erla's dispute is thrown out of court, and Dwalin's marriage is legal, "stated Brodall. Everybody cheered, except for Erla, who quickly left, and an angry Curr, who stomped away.
A happy Dwalin picked up a smiling Susy, and swung her around, as Thorin and Balin joined them, with the sleeping Oren Bee.
"Thank thee, lassie. If Mer and I have a lassie one day, we will name it after you, "stated a smiling Dwalin, as he put Susy down. Dwalin turn to go and Balin stopped him.
"Where are you going, Dwalin? Bombur is making a celebration here for your win, "said Balin.
"I am going to go get my Mer, and tell her what had happened here, "said Dwalin, who took off running. They laughed, and joined Xander and Brodall at the table.
Mer was rocking baby Karn, in Lilybelle's tree. A long thick sturdy tree branch was hanging low to the ground. Fili had Eurus add a back rest all long the branch, so anyone can sit on the branch, and use it to rock and swing, back and forth on it.
Little Xander, Tiki, and Thror were fishing on a small pier Fili had added, so whenever he and Kili wanted to fish, behind his forge. The lads were talking quietly, as they fish.
Fili, Kili, Lilybelle, and Tauriel were talking quietly as well, as they watch Mer crying softly over her son, Karn. Karn was asleep, after being fed by Mer.
Little Oin, Little Gloin, and Citara were taking naps in two cradles, that Aunt Susy had given Lilybelle, as a gift. The cradles were on the porch of Fili and Lilybelle's home. Citara was sleeping in one cradle, while Oin and Gloin were sleeping together in the other cradle. Everyone was solemn on the porch, as they watch Mer. Lilybelle was serving drinks to her visitors, but Mer did not want anything at that moment.
"How long does a dispute last? "asked Lilybelle, who had tears in her eyes, as she placed the pitcher on the table in front of her husband, Fili.
"I do not know. It is a rare thing to have a dispute like this heard, "answered Fili.
"This is not fair. Dwalin and Mer had been happily married for thirteen years, "stated Tauriel, as she looked sadly at Mer. "You did not make a vow to some she-dwarf, did you Kili? "
"To one she-dwarf? No…it would not be fair to the other nine she-dwarves, "said a teasing Kili, with a twinkle in his eyes. Tauriel laughed, and slapped his hand playfully, as the others laughed.
"MER! "
The two dwarves, the she-elf, and the hobbit stood up as one, as Mer looked toward the road of Little Logan. They all saw Dwalin running into the backyard of the forge, smiling.
"We won, lassie! You are declared my wife! "shouted a happy Dwalin, as Mer hurried to Dwalin's arms. The four on the porch joined the happy couple on the lawn of Fili and Lilybelle's home. The lads came running from the river, laughing.
"How did it happen? "asked a happy Fili.
"Your Aunt Susy acted for me, and found out that Erla was married before I was. So, Erla broke the pledge, and I was found faultless. Our marriage is legal, and Mer is my wife, "stated a beaming Dwalin. "Grab your wee ones, because they are celebrating at the tavern in the Blue Mountain Inn. "
Everyone picked up their babies, and they headed back to the tavern to a rowdy party. Dwalin escorted a happy Mer, who felt right at home, with the dwarves. She joined Susy, Thorin, Balin, and Xander at a table, as did the others. Everyone was very happy, as they celebrated.
Erla was not happy at small inn in the front plaza. She was sitting in the eatery, drinking a small glass of beer. Curr joined her, and ordered a drink, as well.
"What now, Erla? "asked a grumpy Curr.
"I will head to the Blue Mountains stronghold, for I remembered that I have a cousin who abides there. I need to ask Oin and Gloin if I can travel with them, "said a sad and tire Erla.
"I have to escort my uncle and his wife back to Erebor. Why do you not come back with me, and be my spouse? "asked Curr. "You are a fine looking she-dwarf, and I am tire of sleeping alone. I will be helping you get a home, and you will be helping me sleep better, "said a smirking Curr. Erla looked at Curr, who was leering at her.
"Why not. I rather be wed with you, than beg a place where I am not wanted, "stated Erla, as she raised her glass. Curr clinked glasses with Erla, as they discuss how they will wed.
Chapter 7 Preparing for Travel
"Susy, it is so amazing how you know which tile to pick, "said Xander, as the wizard and Thorin watched Susy play Xander's wall, in his cave. Xander had admitted that he was not good in playing mahjong, the puzzle on the wall.
"It is mostly luck and logic on which tile to pick. Some days, I am lucky, and some days I am not lucky, "replies Susy, who was sitting with comfort in a chair Xander had placed in front of his wall.
"Remember Xander, we get half of the gold, "stated Thorin.
"Yes Thorin, I remember our agreement, "replied a smiling Xander the wizard.
"Thorin, that is not fair. This is Xander's wall, "said Susy, who stopped playing to look at Thorin, who was smiling at his wife.
"I cannot mine gold, so this is the best way to get gold. Remember wife, I am a dwarf, "teased Thorin, as Susy rolled her eyes. She gave Thorin a quick kiss, and went back to playing the wall. "I only get a quick kiss, wife? "
"Do you want to give Xander the hives again? "asked Susy, as Thorin and Xander laughed. "How is Oren Bee, Xander? "
"She is enjoying herself in the traveling playpen of yours, "said Xander, who peeked at Thorin's daughter. Susy had placed the playpen near the room of the Wall. The wizard had taken some toys out of his commodity bag for Oren Bee. Xander had put a stacking ring toy, a rubber ball, some rubber blocks, and a couple of rattles for Oren Bee to play with. The baby was busy chewing on everything she touches, since she loves exploring things with her mouth. But Oren Bee likes looking at new places as well, so she was very entertained by Xander's cave.
"I am hungry Xander. What do you have for lunch? "asked Thorin.
"A dwarf's desire…gold and food, "teased Xander, as he went and placed a small table near the small chamber. The wizard went and got his food bag, and stood pondering on what to serve his friends. Xander figured finger food would be best, so he put out a bowl with chicken strips and steak fingers, as well as a bowl of baby carrots and celery stalks to chew on. He knew French fries were not healthy, but he put out a bowl full of dinner fries, fried sweet potato fries, and fried zucchini.
Xander handed a plate for Thorin to fill, with food, as he checked on Susy progress. Thorin happily started stacking food on his plate, and then joined his wife in the Wall's chamber.
"So, how are you doing, Susy? "asked Xander, as he saw no score. "How come there is no score showing? "
"I did not want you two getting excited, and confusing me, "said Susy. "When I am finish, then we will see the score. "
"Do you want something to eat, wife? "asked Thorin, who was busy chewing on a steak finger.
"I will eat when I am finish. And Xander, can I have a taco salad…please? "asked Susy, with a smile.
"Anything for the lady, "replied the wizard, who went back to his food bag.
As Xander turn to take the tortilla-shelled salad and a fork to Susy, Susy had sang out, "I am finish! " Xander put the fork in the salad, and put them down on a plate that was on the table, and hurried into the chamber.
Gold coins started falling into the kettle in the Wall's fireplace, as Xander and Thorin laughed. They were smiling with glee at the many falling coins, which were clinking as they land.
"So, how much did you win, wife? "asked Thorin, as he and Xander knelt to take some coins out to look at. "Did you make 44,885 gold coins again? "
"No, Thorin. I did not make 44,885 gold coins this time, "replied Susy, as she slowly stood up and stretched.
"That is alright. Making less does not bother me. I am just glad to have the gold. So, thank you, Susy, "said Xander. "So, what score did you make? "
"My final score was 63,720, "answered Susy, who left the chamber. Thorin and Xander froze in surprise at what Susy said.
"She made 63,720? "asked a thrilled Thorin, as he got up, with Xander from the floor of the chamber. The man and the dwarf danced around, with each other. "How much gold do we each get, Xander? "
"Let me think…divide by two…uh, "pondered Xander.
"You get 31,860 gold coins each, Xander! "shouted Susy, from the cave. She was sitting next to Oren Bee, eating her taco salad.
Xander stuck his head out of the chamber, and replied with a smile, "Show off. " The wizard went back to help Thorin to split the gold. Susy laughed, as she shook her head at the greed of men and dwarves. She smiled at her daughter, when she heard a voice.
"Hello in the cave! "
"Who is it? "asked Susy.
"It is Kili, Aunt Susy, "replied Kili, who peeked into the cave. "Can I come in? "
"Xander, Kili wish to enter your cave! "
"You can let him in, Susy, "answered Xander.
"You heard him, Kili. Come in and join us, "said Susy, with a smile. Susy had come to love Fili and Kili, as if they were her own sons and not her nephews. Kili quickly entered the cave, and gave Susy a kiss on the cheek. He played a bit with Oren Bee, as he waited for Xander and Thorin to exit the Wall's chamber. They could hear Xander and Thorin talking.
"This is going to take a long time to separate the coins, Thorin. Do you trust me? "asked Xander.
"Of course, Xander. You are one of my dearest friends, "answered back Thorin.
"Come with me then, "said the wizard. Xander and Thorin exited the chamber, as the wizard turn to look at the doorway they had just passed through. "Jordee, can you separate the Traveler's gold into two equal stacks? " The light in the cave turned blue, which made Oren Bee giggle in delight. "Then, do so, Jordee. While we wait for Jordee to stack the gold, we will eat lunch. Hello Kili. Do you wish to eat lunch with us? "
"Why yes. That food looks so appealing, "replied a smiling Kili. Dis' son joined the wizard at the small table, and started filling a plate. Thorin sat next to Susy, as he ate his lunch.
"What do you have to drink, Xander? " asked Susy, who was starting to feel thirsty.
"I got some beer for the dwarves and myself. Do you want some ice tea, Susy? "asked Xander.
"Yes, some sweet tea, but no lemons, "replied Susy, who made a face.
"No lemons? You are the only female I have ever met that does not want lemons in her tea, "said a teasing Xander.
"Lemons are good in lemonade and pie, but I do not like it in my tea, "stated Susy, as she took the glass of tea from the wizard. The man and dwarves laughed at Susy's comment.
Xander sat next to Thorin, as Kili sat next to the wizard. And everyone started eating their lunch, as they heard the clinking of the coins being stacked.
"So, why are you here, Kili? "asked Xander, as he ate some of the fried zucchini.
"Steven told me that you were going to go find Citara's kin, and to see if anyone would claim her. I wish to go with you to see for myself, "stated Kili.
"Kili, you do not need to go, "said a worry Thorin. "Remember, you are a dwarf, and they will be heading toward a community with elves. Do not think that you will be welcome as you are here in Logan and Little Logan. "
"Eurus said that he will come with me to keep me safe. But I need to do this for my family, Thorin, "replied Kili.
"So Kili, who will be watching over your horses and stable? "asked Xander.
Smiling, Kili proudly announced, "Tiki said he was old enough to care for the horses and stable. And Tauriel said she would be there to help him, if he needs the help. " Thorin, Susy, and Xander smile at the thought of Tiki stating he was old enough to do a grown dwarf's chore. But he was so young, when he defeated an evil witch.
"Xander? It is your decision, since this is your task, "said Thorin.
"This is going to be a dangerous task, since we will be traveling in the wilderness, far from the Traveling road. We will also have to deal with a person, who killed the mother, and a group of elves we have never met before. So, with two extra fighters, we might have more of a chance to succeed. Welcome Kili to my task. Tell Eurus to get pack, and meet me and the others here at my cave, in the morning tomorrow, "said Xander. Kili smiled, and nodded to the wizard, who was now in his early forties.
They ate and finish lunch, enjoying each other's company. Thorin noticed that no sound was coming from the Wall's chamber.
"I think your Jordee is finish stacking the coins, Xander. I do not hear any noise, "stated Thorin, who was wiping his hand on a napkin Xander have given him.
"Jordee, are you finished stacking the coins? "asked Xander. The cave turn blue, and Xander got up to go see what Jordee had done. Thorin and Kili got up, and follow the wizard into the chamber. The man and the two dwarves smiled at the two piles of gold coins, and saw that they were stack the same and have the same height. "Thorin, do you have your money pouch? "
"Yes, I carried it with me wherever I go, ever since Susy gave it to me as a gift, "stated Thorin, as he thought back to the time Susy had gotten him the money pouch from Petey the Peddler. It was before they were married, and he remembered how he and Susy would argue a lot. They still fell in love, throughout all their arguments. Those were fond memories that Thorin held so dear.
Thorin took his pouch from his belt, and look at the amount that was in the pouch. He still had 44, 875 Traveler's gold in his pouch, and was going to add more.
Thorin opened his pouch wide, as Xander and Kili helped put Thorin's gold into the pouch. It took them a number of minutes, since 31, 860 gold pieces is a lot of gold to move. The three males finish putting Thorin's share into his pouch, and Oakenshield smile at the amount. He have 76, 735 gold pieces, which would help in case he cannot be a blacksmith any more. He knows Susy thinks he loves gold, but he knows that the gold would keep his family safe from unexpected problems.
"Do not worry about my share. I will have Jordee fly the coins into my money pouch later. I need to figure out what I need for the journey, "said Xander, who escorted Thorin and Kili back to the main part of the cave.
"I guess that is a hint for us to finish our visit. You be careful on this journey, Xander. I do not wish to lose a great friend, "stated Thorin, who clasped hands with the wizard.
Xander smiled, and said, "Do not worry, Thorin. It is not my time yet. I have a feeling everything will turn out alright. "
Thorin grabbed Oren Bee, as Kili helped Susy fold the playpen. Kili insisted on carrying the playpen, as Susy waved at Xander, and followed Thorin out of the cave.
"I will see you tomorrow, Xander, "said Kili, who nodded toward the wizard. Xander followed them to his cave entrance, and waved to his friends as they headed to the main gate of Logan. Xander smiled, and told Jordee to secure the entrance, while he put away his gold.
Chapter 8 Where Is Bombur?
Devie was grumbling as she search the Blue Mountain Inn for her husband, Bombur. He knew that Devie set aside tea time every day for them to be intimate. She wants this new baby, and she was determined to have her way. Bombur had been hiding every time it was close to tea time, since he did not want a new child. He was happy just to have Bombom, who wanted to run the Inn with his parents. But Devie wanted another daughter, and had told Bombur that he better help her get that daughter…or else. Bombur knew what 'or else' meant, and started hiding from his wife.
Devie sighed, as she had looked already at the places Bombur had hidden before. She had checked in the broom closet, and he was not there. Devie had checked behind all of the bushes in the backyard, and he was not there. The she-dwarf went through all the rooms in the inn and the house, and he was not there. She still had not found him, and it was making her angrier. Then the blonde she-dwarf thought of a new place to check. He might have gone to his brother's toy shop to hide in.
Devie quickly call Bombom to the front room of the Inn, and told him to watch the front counter, while she looked for his Da.
"Alright Ma! "sang a happy Bombom, who love being in charge. Since turning sixteen, Bombom fixed his hair and mustache to look like his Da. Now, he was starting to be confused for his Da, though he was a few inches shorter.
Devie smiled at her youngest child, and then left the Inn. She hurried through the busy marketplace, and headed toward the toy shop. Devie greeted some of her neighbors, who were doing some late shopping for the day. She entered the toy shop, and saw that Bofur was wiping down the counter, with a dust cloth. Bifur was moving toys around, yet neither one acknowledge her. They would not look at her face, and she knew they were hiding Bombur.
"Alright! Where is my cowardly husband hiding at?! "snapped Devie.
"Devie! "shouted a smiling Bofur, as he approached his sister-in-law. "It is so grand to see you! "
"Stop your hornswoggling, Bofur. I know how you act, when you are hiding something from me. Where is Bombur?! "ordered Devie.
"Bombur? What make you think he is here? "asked a pale Bofur.
"Bofur, son of Becan you better show me where my husband is. Or I will nag you sunup to sundown for getting in between me and my husband, "warned Devie, as Bofur paled even more. "That goes for you too, Bifur. "Bifur ran up the stairs to his home, and locked the door.
"Bifur! Do not lock the door! "shouted Bofur, but he knew that he was trapped, as Devie grabbed his arm. Bofur tried to pull away, but his sister-in-law was twisting the skin on his arm. "OW! Devie that hurts! Alright! Bombur is hiding in the fluffy toys! "
Devie released Bofur, who ran up the stairs and started banging on the door to his home. As Bofur screamed to be let in, Devie went to the stuff toys, and saw Bombur pretending to be one.
"Bombur, son of Becan! Get out of there! I cannot believe how you can do this to me. You even had your brother and cousin helping you. If you going to act like this, then do not come home! "shouted Devie, who stormed out of the shop. Devie was so upset, and knew who she needed to go talk to.
The blonde she-dwarf headed for Oakenshield, and knocked on the front door. Thorin answered the door.
Smiling brightly, Thorin said, "Greetings Devie. Can I help you? "
"I need to speak with your wife, Susy, "sobbed Devie, as she burst into tears. Thorin gently brought Devie into the house, and heard Susy coming down the stairs, with Oren Bee after changing her diaper.
"Devie, what is wrong? "asked a concern Susy, as she handed her daughter to Thorin.
"Is there a place we can talk freely? "asked a crying Devie.
"We will go to my bedroom, Devie. Thorin, I have put a baby bottle, with breast milk on the dining table. Feed Oren Bee for me, please, "asked Susy.
Thorin kissed Susy, and headed to the dining area to get the bottle. Susy escorted Devie to her bedroom, and sat her on the window seat.
"Alright Devie. What is wrong? "asked Susy, who took a handkerchief out of her apron's pocket. She wiped Devie's tears away, as Devie explain her problem.
"Do you remember at the naming ceremony I told you I wanted another child? "reminded Devie.
"Yes, I remember, Devie. "
"Well Bombur does not want another child. He said that he have Bombom, who wants to be like his Da. But what about me? I want another daughter…one that looks like me. I have been praying to Aule, and in a dream I was told that I would have my daughter, but I have to get my husband to want one too. Well, Bombur been fighting me about this child, and is now hiding from me. I do not know what to do, "sobbed Devie.
"All your children were made from the love between you and your husband. If Bombur loves you, he would be willing to have a child with you. Just remind him that, "stated Susy.
"But he said he does not want another child, "cried Devie.
"Hmmm…I hate being sneaky about things, but it looks like you are going to have to trick Bombur into wanting this child. Though it might make you feel bad into tricking your husband, since you always been truthful to him. But I know Bombur would want the child after he sees it. This is what you must do, Devie, "said Susy, who lean forward, and whispered into Devie's ear.
"Are you sure this will work? "asked Devie, who was wiping her tears.
"It does not hurt to try it. And who knows…it might work, "said a smiling Susy. The two females stood up, and hug.
"Thank you, Susy. You are a dear friend, "stated Devie, as Susy escorted the she-dwarf through her house, and out the front door.
"What is wrong with Devie? "asked Thorin, who was sitting on the couch, with a burping Oren Bee. He had just finished feeding his daughter, and Thorin was burping her. Susy had to show Thorin how to feed Oren Bee with a bottle, which delighted him for now he could feed his daughter.
"She is having problems with Bombur, so I gave her some advice to calm her down, "said Susy, who was careful not to tell too much to Thorin. He does not like it, when Susy gets involve with her friends' problems.
"Well, I hope your advice helps them, "said Thorin, who was kissing his Oren Bee.
"I hope so too, Thorin, "said Susy, who joined him on the couch.
Balin had entered the back door, and smiled when he saw Thorin and Susy sitting on the couch, with Oren Bee. He went and joins his kin, who quickly told him about Devie's visit.
Bombur carefully opened the front door to the Inn, and peeked in. He saw Devie at the counter, checking the sign-in-book.
"Devie, can I come in? "asked Bombur. Devie took a quick peek at Bombur, looked away, and started crying. She left the front room, and headed for the kitchen. Devie found Bombom stirring the stew she had started for supper. Bombom looked surprise to see his Ma crying.
"What is wrong, Ma? "asked Bombom. Devie knew that Bombur was peeking into the kitchen. So, she shook her head, and left the kitchen through the back door, crying. Bombur and Bombom looked confusedly at the closing door.
At supper, Bombur was upset, because his Devie did not come to supper. Bombom was worry that his stew was not right, since his Da was not eating with so much gusto as he usually do. But Bombur told his son, that he was worried about Bombom's Ma. They sadly ate quietly, hoping Devie would show up, but she never did. That night, Bombur saw that Devie was not in their bed, and went to look for her. He found her sleeping in Pady's old bed, and he sadly close the bedroom door.
The next morning, Bombur told Devie that he had to go see his brother, and left early in the morning. Devie did not reply, which Bombur noticed as he slowly close the front door of the Inn. He hurried through the early morning marketplace, which was starting to stir. Bombur saw Bofur unlocking the door to his toy shop.
"Bofur! "shouted Bombur.
"Great morning Bombur! Is Devie still pestering you? "asked Bofur, who smiled at his upset brother.
"No, Bofur! I am so worry about her, "said Bombur.
"Why? "
"She will not talk with me, eat meals with me, or even sleep in the same bed with me. I try to talk with her, and she would turn her head or shake her head, and then she would start crying, "stated a teary-eyed Bombur.
"Oh, she is just trying to trick you, Bombur. When she sees it is not going to work, she will be back to her old self again, "counseled Bofur.
"You really think so? She had never acted this way before, "said Bombur.
"Look, there is Bifur. He went to get some bread at the bakery, and does not Devie do the same. He can tell you how Devie was in the bakery, "said Bofur. "Bifur, did you see Devie at the bakery this morning? " Bifur nodded.
"Did she talk to you? "asked Bombur, as Bifur shook his head.
"What did she do, Bifur? "asked Bofur. Bifur pretended to cry. Bofur and Bombur stared at each other, and knew this was not Devie, who always had a pleasant word for Bifur. Bombur took off running to the inn, to go talk to Devie. He found Bombom at the front counter.
"Where is your Ma, Bombom? "
"She finally talked to me, Da. She said that she was not feeling good, and was going to go lie down at the house, "said Bombom.
"Watch the front counter, Bombom! "shouted Bombur, who ran through the dining area.
"I am already doing so, Da! "shouted a confused Bombom.
Bombur quickly hunted for Devie in the house, but he knew where she would be. Devie was lying on Pady's bed, crying. Bombur gently took her into his arms, and held her.
"Devie, do not cry, "said a teary-eyed Bombur.
"I feel bad, Bombur. I tried to trick you into having this baby, but I realized something, "said a sad Devie.
"What Devie? "asked a smiling Bombur.
"All of our children were made from the love and respect we had for each other. Susy tried to tell me that, but I would not listen, so she told me how to trick you into wanting this child. But I do not want a child that you do not want. So, I will learn to be happy with what I have. My son, Bombom, and my darling husband, "cried Devie, who buried her face into Bombur's chest.
"Devie, I realized something as well. The most important thing in my whole life is you and your happiness. If you want a baby that much, then I want a child as well, "said Bombur, as he kissed his wife. "And we will keep trying, until we have a child. "
Two hours later, Bombom heard talking in the kitchen, so he went to see who it was. He found his parents smiling, talking, and preparing lunch for the customers, and themselves.
"Ma, do you feel better? "asked a worry Bombom.
"Yes Bombom, your Ma feels a lot better. There is no better medicine than your Da, "said Devie, as Bombur blushes.
A confused Bombom, said, "I am glad, Ma. I will go back and watch the front counter. " Bombom left a happy Devie and Bombur, and he was happy things were back to normal.
The next week, Susy had invited all the ladies, and babies to lunch at Oakenshield. Little Xander was helping Tiki at the stable, while Kili was away. Tauriel was a bit sad, since she miss Kili dearly. But she had Citara to pre-occupied her, so she was enduring.
Lilybelle had been in charge of selling and buying weapons and armors at the forge, and was a very shrewd person. Fili and Dwalin would smile when a seller or buyer try to put one over Lilybelle, who looks so sweet and innocent, but they were always was out-witted by the hobbit. Lilybelle had the twins with her in the shop, so she would continue to make money for her husband.
Mer was happy that her daughter, Taffi wanted to be a baker likes her Ma. They would talk about the different bake goods, as Mer try to teach Taffi how to make her famous potato rolls.
Susy had put some swinging cradles for the babies to sleep in, as well as her traveling play pen, with toys. Oren Bee was rolling around in the playpen, as Tauriel, Lilybelle, and Mer were laying their babies down for a nap in the cradles. Devie was helping Susy set the outside table for lunch, and was putting plenty of food for everyone. Thorin and Balin were coming to join them, as soon as they are finish with whatever thing they were working on.
As the two females were setting the table, Susy asked, "So, what happened with you and Bombur, Devie? "
"You were right. I should not have tried to trick my Bombur. I confess everything to him, and he now wants me to be happy. So, he is helping me try for my last child, "said a happy Devie.
"I am so glad for you, Devie, because you found out how much Bombur loves you, "said a happy Susy, who was putting two pitcher of lemonade on the table. "And nothing is more wonderful than knowing how much your husband loves you. "
"Are you talking about me, wife? "asked Thorin, who snuck up on his wife. Susy and Devie were startled, and Susy felt Thorin's kiss her on the neck.
"Yes, Thorin. I was talking about you, and how much I love you, "said Susy, as Thorin gave his wife a big long kiss.
"I am hungry. So, do that later in private, and let us eat, Thorin, "teased Balin, as the ladies laughed. Thorin gave a Balin a stony look, and then started laughing. They sat and ate lunch, as Devie smiled with joy as she remembered what Susy had just told her.
Two weeks later, Devie hurried to Furr's Toy Shop, looking for Bombur. Bombur was helping his kin stack logs for Bifur to crave, and she needed to talk to her husband. She found Bombur carrying a log with Bofur and Bifur, when she entered the shop.
"Greetings Bofur and Bifur! How are you? "asked a smiling Devie. The three dwarves love it when Devie smiles, because her dimples show so clearly on her face. Pady was their only child to have those same dimples of Devie's.
"We are doing fine. One of the lords had ordered some huge chess pieces for his garden. So, Bifur is going to spend a couple of months carving them, and the lord is willing to wait and pay well for these pieces, "said an excited Bofur.
"I am so happy for you, Bofur and Bifur, "said Devie.
"So, how are you doing, Devie? "asked Bofur, as he carried another log into the workshop. The three dwarves were putting the logs in stacks on the floor.
"Not too bad, considering…, "replied Devie.
"Considering what, Devie? "asked Bofur, as he directed Bombur to lay his log on top of the stack near Bifur's working table.
"Considering I am with child, "stated a coy Devie. It got silent in the workshop, as Bombur, Bofur, and Bifur slowly came out of the room.
"You are with child, Devie? "asked Bombur.
"Yes, Bombur. We are having another child, "said a smiling Devie. Bombur and Bofur fainted, as Bifur and Devie frowned at their prone bodies. "Bifur, why do they always faint when I tell them I am with child? This is number fifteen and they still faint. You would think they would be use to it by now. " Bifur roll his eyes and shook his head, and then went to help Devie wake up Bombur. It took them a couple of minutes to wake up Bombur, who was sitting on the floor confused. The pair was busy waking up Bofur, when Bombur remembered what Devie had said. Bombur fainted again, as they finally awaken Bofur. The three dwarves tried to wake up Bombur again. When they finally got him awake, they made him sit in a chair in the workshop.
"I am going to be a Da again, "said Bombur, as Bofur patted his back.
"Number fifteen, Bombur. You are so lucky. Bifur and I do not have any children, since no she-dwarves want us for husbands. You are blessed to have Devie as your wife. So, never forget that, "stated Bofur.
"Yes, I know I am bless, Bofur, "said Bombur, who smiled at Devie, who was smiling back. "Did Sebastian tell you if it was a lad or a lassie? "
"Yes, Bombur. It is a lassie, "stated Devie.
"Have you picked out a name, Devie? "asked Bofur, with a smile.
"No, I have not thought of one yet, "said a smiling Devie.
"I want to name this child, Devie, "said Bombur.
"What?! "asked a surprised Devie.
"We will name the child Deedee, after her mother, who she will probably look like, "said Bombur, as everyone smiled.
"Deedee…I like that, Bombur, "stated Devie. The couple hugged, as their kin looked on and smile.
