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Deliverance
Celebriel looked at the perfect shape of his black brows and felt her eyes watering. She reached out and touched one of his thick braids. Then her gaze rolled down his strong chest and her hand lingered a few inches above his skin. She remembered his words and the need to respect his wishes resurfaced. She removed her hand with a groan of regret and closed her eyes. A single tear lingered at the corner of her eye that refused to be released.
After several moments she forced herself to open her eyes. She was once again met with the pale attractiveness of his face. She touched the bandage on his side gently and exhaled. "What were you thinking, my stubborn Dwarf?" -She whispered and her lips touched his forehead. His temperature was thankfully almost normal- "Didn't I tell you to take care of your wound?" – Her brows twisted in annoyance- "Didn't I warn you that it could get infected?"
His answer was silence.
Celly's silver-golden hair cascaded over her shoulder and pooled on his stomach. She stifled her need to allow the dark hair on his chest tickle her palm. She was an Elf, she was wise, old beyond her years, able to resist mortal desires. She was his friend, his constant support, his ally….she was there to respect his wishes. "But that doesn't mean I won't scold you when you wake up." She warned him and reached up to remove one of the golden beads that held his braid together. She placed it aside and started undoing it carefully. When she finished she moved to the other braid and did the same, thus allowing all his hair to spread freely upon the pillows. Then her fingers caressed his two remaining warrior braids, the ones that no one was allowed to touch but him. A smile adorned her lips as she admired his handsome features. She remained enchanted like that by him for a long time, without noticing that the door of the room opened quietly and the elegant figure of her great-grandmother slid inside.
"You look spellbound…"
Galadriel's husky voice made Celly flinch. She removed her fingers from Durin's black locks and took a surprised step back. "Grandmother." She said thickly.
"You don't have to stop what you are doing, because of me." Galadriel's smile was knowing.
"I wasn't doing anything." Celly's expression couldn't hide her guilt.
Galadriel approached and crossed her hands patiently. Then she smiled towards the sleeping Dwarf-Lord. "I must admit that he grew up to become rather alluring."
Celly blushed down to her big toes. She looked away.
"The crudeness of his kinfolk, when combined with such an impressive physiognomy, can become an emotional snare for some ladies of our peoples." Galadriel's lips twitched playfully.
"He is my best friend. I have known him for years…." Celly rejoined quickly.
"Your friendship with this boy doesn't eliminate the fact that he is very charming." Galadriel raised her brow.
"I don't care about his charm and what do you mean by -emotional snare for our ladies-?" Celly's clear brow rippled with confusion.
"Through the ages there were more than a few She-Elves who fell for the attractively rough Dwarf who happened to cross their path." Galadriel's eyes were penetrating.
Celly's lips twisted. "Haven't any of the Dwarves fallen victim to ailments of the heart towards our ladies then? Was that always one-sided?"
"Of course they have…" Galadriel's smile was wise.
"Yet no official unions of the sort had ever taken place between our kinsfolk." Celly sounded disheartened.
Galadriel sighed and turned her piercing eyes towards the sleeping Durin. "Too many cultural differences I am afraid."
"And a centuries long rivalry." Celly added with a frown.
Galadriel nodded softly. "Too many battles, too much animosity, too many arguments between us."
"So all these romances went unrequited." Celly rejoined sadly.
"I am afraid so."
"That is so sad." Celly's voice was barely heard as her eyes turned to Durin once more.
"Maybe sad, maybe wise, but also maybe inevitable." Galadriel looked at her.
"Maybe then someone should change all that." Celly scowled.
"Would you be willing to take the first step towards the great unknown then?" Galadriel raised both brows.
Celly turned to her grandmother and shook her head. "With whom?"
Galadriel remained immovable, apart from a small lopsided smile that formed on her lips.
Celly acted surprised and tucked her long hair behind her ear. "You don't mean with him, now do you?"
Galadriel's beautiful eyes turned towards Durin briefly, before penetrating through the weak armor of her granddaughter with ease. "He is not good enough for you?"
Celly's lips parted in shock. "He is my best friend, grandmother. I am not emotionally invested in him. I am not like all those poor She-Elves whose love towards a handsome Dwarf went unrequited."
Galadriel remained. "Our relationships were ruined ages ago by unwise decisions taken by both our peoples. Steps towards the restoration of those relationships have already been taken by the father of this boy. Maybe the future holds a different kind of union between us. Only time will tell."
Celebriel swallowed heavily. "I hope so."
"You do?" Galadriel smiled.
Celly turned towards her grandmother with a frown. "I don't want to see any love being wasted, just because we belong to different races. It is unfair."
"It is." -Galadriel agreed- "Remember my child. The heroes who try to change the inevitable, are also the most courageous."
Celly looked at her hands and sat lightly at the bed next to Durin. She remained silent.
"For they must overcome not only the biases of our kin, but the barriers of their family as well." Galadriel smiled.
"Which is the worst part. I wouldn't care about what strangers said to me….but my father matters." Celly's brows wrinkled.
Galadriel leaned over Durin and placed her palm on his forehead. "My grandson would most certainly create unsurpassable barriers for you, if you ever decided to pursue a Dwarf-Lord, but you have nothing to worry about since you said Durin the Seventh is just your best friend…"
Celly paled.
"….and that you are not emotionally invested in him." Galadriel added with a knowing smile.
"I am not. However my father is not the ruler of my heart, nor the master of my life." Celebriel's eyes were spitting fire when she looked up.
"And he shouldn't be." Galadriel agreed.
"I should be free to decide for myself." Celly's voice was coarse.
"That is fair."
"Considering he chose a woman who didn't belong to our kin." Celly continued, feeling more and more annoyed.
"I agree." Galadriel continued patiently.
A long pause came from a seething Celly. "Yet, he won't respect my choices….will he?"
"He won't." Galadriel shook her head.
Celly cupped her face and exhaled hard.
Galadriel's hand touched her shoulder lightly. "You don't seem as emotionally detached as you are trying to present."
Celly's silence was long-drawn, but her grandmother was patient. "I am not." She admitted in defeat.
"I see." Galadriel sat next to her and caressed her long smooth hair.
A deep sigh undulated Celly's shoulders. "Durin doesn't want anything more than a friendship with me, so I suppose we are safe."
Galadriel raised her chin. "I see you are very well confined inside his emotional snare."
"He never encouraged me grandmother. It was something that just happened many years ago, when we were children." Celly's voice was tight.
Galadriel was quiet and Celly felt the need to explain.
"I told him that we were going to marry when we grew older. Silly juvenile stories….nothing important." Celly said with a bitter smile and wiped a tear that run down her cheek.
"It looks important to me." Galadriel said solemnly.
"We are just friends." Celly whispered.
"And so you said one too many times. Do you both wish for that outcome, or only one of you does?" Came the clever question.
Celly didn't respond.
Galadriel's glimmered astutely. "The path you have chosen to walk upon will be paved with suffering, but I must not deter you from it. You must trudge on…."
"Nothing will happen between us. Don't worry." Celly looked at her tensely.
Galadriel smiled and cupped her smooth cheek. "Very well my child." She looked at Celly perceptively.
Celly sighed and closed her eyes. "Growing up is hard."
"It will become far harder." Galadriel whispered.
Celly looked up at her with apprehension, but Galadriel turned her attention towards the wounded Durin calmly.
"His fever seems to be abating." She rejoined.
"I warned him about that wound, back in Erebor. It was clearly infected. I tried to heal him, but he didn't follow my advice." Celebriel pouted.
"He has inherited the obstinacy of his father. I healed the great Oakenshield once upon a time and I have come face to face with his hot-headedness over multiple occasions. This refusal to conform to rules might cause this young Prince a lot of trouble in the future." Galadriel smiled.
Celly scoffed. "Oh, I know."
Galadriel looked at her granddaughter in silent fixation.
"Thank you for helping him." Celly murmured.
"I wasn't going to leave my grand-daughter's best friend unattended." Galadriel seemed mildly amused by Celebriel's awkwardness.
Celly smiled timidly.
"However I am perplexed as to why he has wandered so far away from Erebor." Galadriel said cleverly.
Celly frowned. "I honestly cannot tell you."
"The Dwarrowdelf is in the complete opposite direction." Galadriel continued nonchalantly.
"True…" Celly looked at him.
"Unless he had some unfinished business in the Hidden Land." The Queen raised her brows.
"What?…." Celly stumbled.
"I don't know, maybe he needed to talk you about something." Galadriel smiled softly.
"He told me everything that needed to be said back in Erebor." Celebriel stiffened at those words and commenced to straighten Durin's covers.
Galadriel remained patiently silent.
Celly fidgeted impatiently for several moments before speaking. "Unless you are sensing something from him that I haven't…."
Galadriel smiled and stood up. She didn't speak.
Celly bit her tongue and felt the color mounting on her cheeks. "I mean he has come a long way in the wrong direction, you are right…" She tried to make her great-grandmother speak.
The ethereal figure of the Queen walked over to the door. There she stopped.
"Grandmother…please…." Celly's voice broke.
Galadriel turned around with a kind smile.
"If you have seen into his mind, please tell me. Don't make me suffer…" Celly felt her eyes tearing up.
Galadriel tilted her head. "He carries the pride and inflexibility of his father, but his heart is honest and true. His path in life will be hard and full of ache, but it will carry in it a brilliance which will surpass all his forefathers. The path that you are considering to take will be paved with pain…."
Celly's lips parted and her brows entwined. What could she ever say to that?
Galadriel smiled brightly at her grand-daughter. "Soon he will wake up." She said softly and closed the door behind her.
Celebriel caught herself at the edge of the bed and sat down heavily. Her delicate hand passed over her beautiful features and she sighed. Then she looked down at him. He was sleeping so peacefully. After her talk with Galadriel she yearned for him to open his eyes and explain to her what he was doing here. Lothlórien was too far away from Erebor to be an honest mistake. He couldn't have found himself at the outskirts of the Hidden Lands, just because he was passing by….even though Celebriel could easily hear him using that excuse for some reason.
That thought made her smile. "What are you doing so far away from your home, you silly boy?"
Durin's steady breathing didn't change.
"You almost killed yourself by coming here…" -She whispered and a shadow of doubt passed from her brow- "Whatever for?" She murmured.
No answer….just peaceful sleep.
Celly's thumb slid softly over his lips. "Did you come here to see me?" She said with a breathy voice.
Durin didn't move and Celebriel stood above him like an angel for a long time, trying to understand why he was there….
-.-
"Hush little darling." Rhianaye murmured and her finger stroked Ida's red cheek.
The baby cooed and tried to open her eyes. Then she made an attempt to focus on the vague shadow of her big sister.
Rhianaye was unable to stop a loving smile forming on her lips. She kissed Ida's forehead and then began pacing nervously in front of her studying desk once again. Talita looked up from her drawing. "You thcared Rhia?" She spluttered and then wiped a green snot that was hanging from her nose.
"No, why would I be?" -Rhianaye frowned- "Wipe your nose baby." She shuffled quickly to the desk and gave Talita a hankie.
"Becauthe you can't thtop walking." Talita blew her nose so loudly that Ida stirred.
Rhianaye placed a soft kiss on the baby's forehead and bounced her gently. "Well admittedly I am a bit nervous…." She humphed.
"You want to drink thome milk?" Talita grinned and showed Rhianaye her cup.
"No honey, I am good." Rhia mumbled and then concentrated on the sinking feeling she had in her stomach ever since yesterday. She woke up in the middle of the night sweating profusely and feeling way too hot. It had been five days since Durin left Erebor without giving her a reason. Their father informed all his children that Durin had some serious business to attend to, but he never revealed his destination.
Rhianaye felt pretty calm during the first five days of Durin's departure, but on the dawn of the sixth she woke up with a dreadful feeling of impending doom. She rushed out of her rooms and went to find her parents. She found her father awake and described him the feeling of sickness and immense heat that was coming from her head. She explained to him how worried she was for Durin, as this feeling didn't belong to her. Thorin told her to not bother her mother with this and took it upon himself to get some news from his son. He set the crows loose and now they were all lingering with anxiety, waiting for some news.
As Rhianaye was unable to calm down, she offered to take care of baby Ida and Talita, because she knew those babies were going to keep her mind busy until some news finally reached them. That is how this afternoon found her walking up and down with Ida in her arms, unable to finish her studies and finding Talita's distorted drawings much more interesting that the Runes of the Elders.
"Does thith look good?" Talita raised her scroll.
Rhianaye squinted. "What is that supposed to be?"
Talita rolled her eyes. "Thith!" She pointed at the proper rune that was on the scroll next to her.
Rhianaye gave her an uncomfortable smile. "Oh, yes that is good."
"But you didn't underthtand what rune it wath…" Talita frowned.
"The vertical line is too crooked baby. Try making it straighter." Rhianaye offered.
Talita pouted. "Theeth…" She murmured bothered.
Rhianaye paused and looked at the little blonde girl with the puffy red cheeks. "You mean sheesh…." She corrected.
"That is what I thaid, theeth…" Talita agreed and concentrated on her work again.
Rhianaye sighed and buried her nose on her baby sister's neck. That smell felt so comforting that the young princess closed her eyes as she swayed back and forth in an effort to self-soothe. Slowly silence filled the large cavern and Rhianaye was drawn in by the soft breathing of Ida and Talita's quill that was sliding on the scroll. She tried to concentrate on what Durin was feeling, but for some reason she felt nothing. Before she even had the time to wander if that meant that Durin was alright, there was a knock on the library doors and Rhianaye looked up.
"Come in, come in, whoever you are!" Talita shouted and then giggled at Rhianaye's glare.
Rhianaye turned towards the doors and covered the side of Ida's head with a blanket. Commoners were not supposed to look at the new royal baby's face during the first three full moons.
Suthvari entered, bearing a happy countenance and a scroll held tightly in his hand. "My Lady." He bowed respectfully.
"Hi there cute man!" Talita waved.
Rhianaye blushed. "Hush now you insolent child!" She scolded.
Suthvari's smile was huge. "Hello my little beautiful princess."
Talita covered her mouth in a theatrical manner and flicked her wrist at him. "Oh, you…" She acted embarrassed.
Suthvari raised his brows and looked at Rhianaye lost.
"Don't look at me. I don't know where she is picking that attitude from." Rhianaye admonished and glared at her cousin.
"Certainly not from you." Suthvari smiled coyly.
Rhianaye's brow clouded. "You have an issue with that?"
"On the contrary." -Suthvari said and then took a few quick steps towards her- "We have news from Roac." He said and gave her the scroll.
Rhianaye felt her breath catching. "Is he okay!?"
"Yes…" Suthvari crossed his hands and smirked.
"Did you inform my parents?" Rhianaye steadied Ida and began unrolling the scroll clumsily.
"I spoke with the King. He will take care of the rest." -Suthvari said- "You want me to help you?" He offered.
"I am alright." Rhianaye murmured and leaned against the table, taking the weight off her frail leg. Then she read the message on the scroll quickly, before closing her eyes in relief. A tear trickled down her nose and a smiled toyed on her lips.
"What's wrong?" Talita climbed on the table and toddled over to her.
"My brother is safe." -Rhianaye sniffled and stroked Talita's golden curls. Then she opened her eyes and looked at Suthvari breathlessly- "What was the fool thinking by trekking to Lothlórien in the middle of a snowstorm…tell me that?"
"As if you don't know…" Suthvari scoffed.
"Celebriel should be his port, his safe haven, not his reason for unraveling." Rhianaye admonished angrily and discarded the scroll aside.
Talita sneaked up to it and then made an effort to read it….upside down.
"Men are willing to go to unimaginable extremes in order to get the attention of the woman they love." Suthvari's eyes were penetrating.
"Well, if Celly doesn't smack him upside in the head for being such a fool, then I will when he returns." Rhianaye humphed and caressed Ida's plump cheek.
"Should we inform his bodyguard of the news?" Suthvari sat next to her.
"That is one thing that Lis will be unable to help him with. My father's scroll says that I am not supposed to say anything to anyone. Durin is in good hands now. I worry not for his health anymore, but I do worry about his mental capacity to act prudently." Rhianaye pursed her lips.
"There is no reason in love." Suthvari smiled.
Rhianaye tilted her head. "You are right, besides I always endorsed this relationship…."
"So what are you complaining for?" Suthvari murmured.
"You have no idea how scared I was for him." Rhianaye closed her eyes.
"I know." Suthvari wrapped his arm around her.
Rhianaye leaned on him. "It's so hard sometimes. You have no idea how many nightmares I went through when he was fighting in Khazad-dûm."
"I can only empathize…." -Suthvari rejoined quietly- "Since I have no siblings. I know how attached you are to all your siblings though, especially Prince Durin."
"I love him dearly and if anything happens to him…I will kill him with my own two hands." Rhianaye mumbled and she felt her eyes tearing up.
Suthvari snorted. "That's a very ominous threat. I would fear having such a feisty sister as you."
"He fears nothing…which is very unwise." Rhianaye rebuked.
"He has the soul of a warrior. Something that I long to experience as well." Suthvari's countenance fell.
Rhianaye pursed her lips. "Oh, come on. Don't turn all grumpy on me now. I told you that I will talk to my father for Durin's next recruitment."
"The Prince will not have me on board. He feels a great animosity towards me." Suthvari's voice was full of dissapointment.
"I have noticed, but I don't know the reason. I won't lie to you though. I am happy that my brother's secret agenda with you, helps me keep you close…where you are safe." Rhianaye stumbled.
When Suthvari met her eyes, she quickly looked away. "Oh…" He exhaled embarrassed.
"We are all children still…I don't want you going off to a war that might kill you. We have so much to live for yet." She explained thickly.
"The same goes for your brothers too." Suthvari caressed her shoulder.
"They chose to risk their lives for a noble cause….yet you…." She stumbled.
"I feel the same need." Suthvari whispered.
Rhianaye closed her eyes exasperated. "Why can't you all be boys…simply boys? Why do you hurry to grow up and go to war? Why don't you want to enjoy life next to…." –She paused and looked into his eyes- "….next to your friends."
"Because it is our job to protect you." He smiled and leaned over to give her cheek a kiss.
"You are not asking us if we are ready to lose you…inside Moria's unrelieved darkness." She stammered.
"Who is the plural for?" Suthvari wandered with a soft smile.
Rhianaye rolled her eyes, but remained silent.
Suthvari squeezed Rhianaye's shoulder. "Just knowing that you like my company so much is worth all the sacrifices I must undertake for your sake."
"I'd prefer you to skip the sacrifices and stay put." She mumbled annoyed.
"Well, you don't have to worry so much anyway. Between the antagonism your father has towards mine and the anger your brother betrays towards me….I am doomed to remain bound in Erebor for life. Unless one of your other brothers becomes a commander of the army. Then maybe I will get another chance." Suthvari's dissapointment was clear.
Rhianaye looked at him sadly. "Don't joke for I am torn."
He engaged her eyes.
"Between scolding my twin for keeping you away from the army and congratulating him." Her lips twitched in defeat.
He leaned down to kiss her temple. "You mean a lot to me too….."
Rhianaye scoffed.
"Just so you know." He elaborated playfully.
Rhianaye nodded. "Fine…fine." She brushed him off.
Suthvari looked at how crookedly she was leaning upon the table. "Your leg needs to rest, are you in pain?"
"Eh, that thing is always causing me trouble during the most inappropriate times." Rhianaye humphed vexed.
"You want me to hold the baby?" Suthvari offered.
Rhianaye hid Ida under the blanket. "Nah, nah, nah back off you cunning man. You will not see the baby before the designated time goes by."
Suthvari sneakered. "I was honestly trying to help you."
Rhianaye smiled down at her baby sister lovingly. "I am fine, as long as you keep me company. You have the unnerving ability to fix my mood all the time."
"And I don't?" Talita pouted and scooted towards Rhianaye.
"Of course you do love, that is why I asked you to come with me today." Rhianaye rubbed her nose on the little girl's temple.
Talita giggled and pushed her away.
"How in the name of Mahal did you end up with two kids under your care?" Suthvari crossed his arms with a confused smile.
"I needed something to take my mind off Durin's shenanigans and I also wanted to give my mom and my dad a rest." She shrugged.
"You have Loa, Princess Dis, Princess Valdis…." Suthvari started counting.
"I also wanted to test myself in the difficulties of raising children." She interrupted him.
"Why so? You intend to start your own family soon?" He flicked his brows at her.
She scowled. "Are you serious?! Of course not! I have my academic studies to look after now…and also I am still young…I need to experience life before I settle down."
"Is that right?" Suthvari tsked.
"Well, yes it is! You have a dream of becoming a warrior, well my dream is becoming a teacher like my mom!" She bit back.
"A kindergarten teacher?" He raised his brows surprised.
"Any kind of teacher. I don't mind…..I love teaching." She grinned pleased.
Suthvari looked at her almost lovingly. "It suits you."
She blushed.
"Although you have to take care of your legs. Teachers stand for long hours." He offered.
"I am not made out of stardust….I won't blow with the wind, don't worry…." She scolded, but her eyes were playful.
"We are all made of stardust…." He rejoined cleverly.
She humphed.
He pulled her in his embrace and she settled. "Can we agree with you being my stardust?"
Rhianaye looked at him solemnly.
"My stardust…no one else's…" He continued.
Talita's face twisted. "That's thtupid!" She admonished.
Rhianaye nudged him with her forehead. "I'd like that."
He kissed her forehead. "Good."
Then Rhianaye turned towards the visibly disgusted Talita. "And it's not stupid. You are just too young to understand yet."
"I am older than her…" Talita pointed at Ida.
"Then listen to what I am telling you, so you can pass down your wisdom to her when the time comes." Rhianaye offered.
Talita's frown melted in a surprised expression. "Oh…right…" She mumbled and then begun munching on her fist thoughtfully.
Rhianaye looked at him gratefully. "Thank you for coming to find me."
"Thank you for allowing me to be here." He rejoined.
They settled next to each other, shoulder to shoulder, smiling at their hidden thoughts.
As for Talita she was making grand plans on how to become Ida's mentor when they grew older….
-,-
"What do you mean he doesn't need us?" Thrárin's face was red with rage.
"I am not used to repeating myself." Thorin admonished and turned his attention to his scrolls.
"Dad we need to go help him?!" Orin joined in more fervently.
"You and your brother need to mind your own business." Thorin glared at them above the rim of his glasses.
"But father, he is sick and alone in Lothlórien. Someone needs to go to him. I can do it." Thrárin offered.
"I will go too!" Orin offered eagerly.
Thorin's hand struck the desk with force. "Silence! You will both remain put! Your brother is well taken care of and I want to hear nothing more about it!"
Eilin gave her husband a worried glance and when Thrárin opened his mouth to speak again she intervened. "Listen to your father boys. He already told you that enough is enough." Her voice was austere.
That gave pause to Thrárin, who crossed his arms defensively. "Can we at least learn why he left five days ago…. alone?!"
Thorin raised his brow silently.
"He didn't tell us anything. He didn't even take his bodyguard with him." Thrárin pointed at Lis who was standing by the door quietly.
"He informed me and that should be enough for all of you." Thorin rebuked heavily.
Thrárin pressed his lips, trying to control the wrath that was raising in him at his father's calmness towards Durin's illness. "What did the message say about his illness?" Thrárin continued relentlessly.
Thorin threw his quill down and pinched the bridge of his nose. "Give him the message before I trim his bloody beard…." He spat at Eilin.
She took it from his desk and gave it to her son, but not without shaking her head in disappointment. "You should know not to anger your father this way. He has a lot on his mind. What you are doing is not helping him."
"Well, forgive me for wanting to be there for my brother." Thrárin returned, but was unable to hold Eilin's eyes.
Orin leaned over his brother's shoulder. "Let me see…." He said breathlessly.
They both read it silently for several moments and then Thrárin raised his head. "He collapsed from fever?"
"His wound got infected…the message is pretty clear." Thorin picked up his quill again and tried to resume his work.
Thrárin grumbled the paper in his hands and shook his head. "He is alone in the midst of all those Elves."
"The Elves are our friends and the Lady of the Light our ally. She saved my life in the past and she did the same for your brother now. My trust in her is indisputable. Now can I get on with my work?" Thorin's voice was assertive.
"Calm down honey…." Eilin tried.
Thorin glared at her.
"Lady Galadriel may have cured his illness, but don't you think he needs his family there with him?" Thrárin insisted.
"Not this time, no." Thorin rejoined flatly.
"Why?!" Thrárin hollered absolutely mad at being left out of an obvious secret.
Thorin clenched his teeth and closed his eyes. Then he addressed Orin. "Son, do me a favor and get your brother out of here before I thrash him…"
Orin's face settled and he grabbed Thrárin's arm. "Of course father."
"What?! I thought you were on my side!" Thrárin admonished.
Orin pulled him. "I am on your side. Now come on…. "
Thrárin turned to his father and the need to challenge the King's authority came head to head with the certainty that this task was simply impossible. His forearm flexed and he stuffed the crumbled scroll in his pocket. "Fine!" He spat and followed Orin out of the King's offices, fuming.
When the door closed behind them, Eilin clasped Thorin's shoulder. "Maybe you should have told him the truth, honey."
Thorin looked at her.
"That Durin is anything but alone in Lothlórien." Eilin gave him a soft smile and her forefinger tried to smooth out one of the barely visible wrinkles on his forehead.
"Durin didn't want anyone to know that he was going there to find Celebriel. We have to respect our boy's wishes woman. They are still very young and don't know how to handle their emotions. Durin is trying to get a grip at the ailments of his heart, while at the same time battling against the darkness of Moria. He is overwhelmed. If he needs time away to find himself in the arms of the girl he likes, without telling a single word to his siblings then he must be allowed. Don't you think so?" Thorin rejoined.
Lis' lips twitched at those words and she crossed her arms.
Eilin closed her eyes. "It is his right, by all means. However his siblings love him and they are deeply worried."
"My word should have been enough to calm them down." Thorin dismissed that line of thought, visibly vexed.
"They are not children anymore. Thrárin is a warrior and Orin is one in the making. Their job is to challenge your authority. Our boys are doing exactly what you primed them to do. Never take anyone's word for granted and know how to think for themselves." Eilin smiled gently and caressed his silver warrior braids.
Lis closed her eyes and turned away respectfully.
Thorin humphed. "Maybe I should have been a less lenient parent then. Maybe I should have been more dictatorial."
Eilin placed a gentle kiss on his cheek. "I am glad you weren't, because our children are growing up to be wonderful adults who care and support each other. Instead of being mad at Thrárin and Orin for wanting to help their brother, be proud of them." She whispered.
"Can I at least be a bit annoyed too?" He exhaled in defeat and a small smile formed on his lips.
"You are not allowed my love, no." She laughed lightly and stippled her fingers through his.
He sighed and cupped her cheek. Then his beautiful azure eyes burrowed in hers and a sense of calmness washed over him. He smiled and pulled her in. He kissed her forehead gently. "Alright my heart, I hear you."
Eilin graced his defeat with a devoted gaze that touched his heart. "Lis, poor girl don't hide your face." She said with a knowing smile.
Thorin turned towards the door. Lis was standing there looking at the wall. "Captain…." He said solemnly.
Lis turned around and gave him a strict military salutation. "Your Majesty!"
"Thank you for not telling anything to the Princes." Thorin tilted his head gratefully.
"I hardly knew the truth, before hearing it just now, Sir." Lis crossed her arms behind her back and stood in attention.
"I'd like you to keep what you learned a secret until the Commander returns." Thorin's eyes thinned on her.
Lis pressed her lips sternly. "I will guard his secrets with my honor, SIR!" She thundered.
Thorin exchanged a knowing smile with his wife. "Very well. You will take over the recruitment of the army in Durin's absence."
Lis bowed curtly. "Sir!"
"I will inspect the new soldiers tomorrow at dawn." Thorin continued calmly.
"Yes my Lord!"
"You can leave…" Thorin leaned back to his chair and caressed his beard-braid thoughtfully.
Another sharp salutation came from Lis and then she walked proudly outside.
When they were finally alone Thorin gave up on the idea of looking austere. His shoulders slouched and he abandoned himself in the arms of his intricate chair.
Eilin sat at the arm and propped her temple on his forehead. "Thank you for trying to control your anger in front of them."
"They really tested my patience today." He said and wrapped his arm around her waist, pulling her in.
She settled against him and closed her eyes. "Yet you handled them very well."
He shook his head. "They are giving me too much lip."
"Weren't you doing the same to your father?"
He didn't answer.
"How else are they going to test their strengths against the mighty Oakenshield? Allow them to experiment." She offered quietly.
"Oh, I am allowing them plenty of experimenting." Thorin humphed.
"Don't sound bitter honey." She cupped his cheek lovingly.
"Thrárin is literally buried under Vera's coats…." Thorin continued.
Eilin snorted.
"Don't laugh, her father will kill us all if he finds out." Thorin scolded.
"Then don't let him find out!" She kissed his cheek lovingly.
Thorin waved her away. "Easy for you to say. He is on my tail constantly. He knows something is going on."
"I trust you to figure out how to deal with this. You have plenty of experience…." She scoffed.
He glared at her.
"Too much drama in your life…." She pecked his nose.
He exhaled roughly. "Which has multiplied ever since we birthed all those devils."
Eilin slid onto his lap and threw her arms around his neck. "Thrárin is just turning out to be as passionate about women as you were. What's with the long face?"
Thorin rolled his eyes. "Thrárin is passionate about women, Orin passionate about beheading enemies and Durin doesn't know which one he likes the most, love or war. The only one who still has her brains intact is our precious little gem. I don't even want to think what will happen to Ida when she grows up."
"She will try to pick up some fishing nets in the river and a handsome knight will come save her…and sweep her off her feet." Eilin giggled.
He snorted.
"They are an army of tearaways though, aren't they?" She beamed.
"Why do you seem proud of this?" Thorin scowled.
"Because I am!" She rejoined.
He closed his eyes and leaned his head against her bosom. He spoke after a long-drawn silence. "I told Durin to pursue this girl if that is what his heart desires. Even if it goes against his Crown."
Eilin's fingers slid through his thick silver mane. "I am so proud of you."
He held his breath.
"You stopped the lunacy that was forced upon you by your father, before it could pass down to the future generations. You created a healthy family with children that are allowed to think and act on their own accord without wanting your permission all the time. You are helping them become independent individuals that will try to fulfil their dreams and not yours. Our children's happiness is your biggest accomplishment my darling. Not ruling the Seven Dwarven Kingdoms or creating the biggest Northern alliance Middle Earth had ever seen….. As for their insolence, excuse it from time to time. They will give you lip when you try to force them to do something they think is unfair and that is correct. What is happening now is so different from what was happening with you and your parents. You changed all that for us, you have managed to break the chains to the past and your children will thank you for that one day. I couldn't have chosen a better father for my babies and I am so proud of you. Thank you my love, for being exactly who you are." She said softly and her stunning green eyes seared into his.
His hand tightened around her waist. "Thank you for always being next to me through thick and thin."
She tucked a long lock behind his ear and caressed the earlobe tenderly. "There is no other place I'd rather be."
He pulled her in for a soft kiss that she reciprocated. "You know, deep inside I am trying hard to worry about Durin, but my heart is not in it. Celebriel is with him and I know she is going to take care of him." He said after a long time.
Eilin's lips pursed. "I know she is, but I was hoping Lis would have been the girl to steal Durin's heart in the end, to be honest."
"I understand. However this isn't our life. His life, his choices….exactly like you said." Thorin wised.
"Her father despises you. If they ever end up together, it won't be easy for them." Eilin warned.
"Our life was anything but easy…..we went through hell." He frowned.
Eilin looked at his neck and nodded. "That is true."
"Yet, here we are….more in love than ever." His palm covered her cheek and he kissed the side of her mouth.
She exhaled. "More in love than ever…." She repeated.
"Maybe Durin and Celebriel are meant to go through hell in order to find their paradise too. They won't know, unless they try." Thorin whispered and his lips stroked his wife's greying temple.
"I know my heart." She murmured and cuddled in his arms.
He exhaled and closed his eyes….feeling once more than the world was in perfect order whenever the love of his life was in his embrace. He hoped silently at that moment that the same fate would befall all his children and that Mahal would bless him and Eilin to see many, many, many grandchildren….and even more great-grandchildren.
That thought for him was …..the most precious treasure.
-.-
When the door closed behind her, Lis heard the elevated voices of Thrárin and Orin who were standing behind a tall column. She scowled and approached slowly, making sure she was not visible.
"You shouldn't have dragged me out of there. I could have convinced father to tell us the truth about Durin." Thrárin admonished.
"You wouldn't have found out anything. Don't you know that the more your anger dad the more he locks up?" Orin rebuked cleverly.
"So what is your idea now brat? We just wait for dad to be in a good mood in order to tell us the truth?" Thrárin crossed his arms.
"No, we get our horses and ride to Lothlórien." Orin's smile was cunning.
Those words gave pause to Thrárin. "What?"
"We go find him….and learn the truth first hand." Orin shrugged.
"We leave without dad's permission?" Thrárin looked repulsed by that idea.
"Yeah, why not?" Orin grinned.
"Because he is going to leave me beardless when he finds out …" Thrárin waved his hands in exasperation.
"You are too afraid of him…." Orin tilted his head and his eyes glimmered devilishly.
"And you are not?" Thrárin flinched.
"I love him, but I am not afraid of him." Orin raised his brows.
"Very imprudent words." Thrárin shook his head.
"Never mind that. Are you with me?" Orin grabbed his brother's forearm.
"We ride to Lorien alone?" Thrárin grabbed it back.
Orin smiled. "Yes."
"In the middle of the winter, after I returned from a sixth month battle without any protection from our troops?" Thrárin pursed his lips.
"Choose a few good men to follow us and let us go." Orin said cleverly.
"Father said that no one is to know Durin's location, but our family remember?" Thrárin rebuked.
"Then we go alone." Orin shrugged.
"I will not risk your life brother. I will go myself. You will remain here." Thrárin straightened his shoulders.
"Forget it. This was my idea. I am not staying behind while Durin is in trouble. I am coming with you." Orin's intense green eyes were piercing.
Thrárin inhaled deeply and got ready to reply when a voice came from behind him that made him freeze.
"I will join you." Lis said flatly.
They turned to her surprised.
"I will come with you." She repeated heavily.
Thrárin swallowed nervously and looked at Orin.
Orin inclined his head. "If she is coming then no one will be able to hurt us." He whispered.
Thrárin kept silent.
"And no one needs to know. This shall remain between us." Orin smiled widely.
Thrárin's eyes darted to Lis. "You will keep this a secret."
"Of course." Lis' face was grave.
It took several moments for Thrárin to speak again. "Then we leave. First thing tomorrow."
"After your father inspects the new recruits, not before." Lis intervened.
The brothers gave each other a guarded look.
"It's a deal." Thrárin said and offered Lis his hand.
She grabbed it tightly.
"Thank you for helping us out." Thrárin's smile was timid.
"I have always been helping your family out." Lis said solemnly.
Thrárin gave her an appreciative nod. "I know. Meet us here tomorrow." He said and grabbed Orin. They left quickly while looking around to see who else had noticed them.
Lis remained in the middle of the King's Halls with her arms crossed for several moments. Then she wrapped her coat tightly around her body and pulled the hood over her head as she walked outside the gates. The weather was very rough. The wind was howling and the snow was falling in thick swirls all around the meadow. She remained thoughtfully silent observing the harsh weather enveloping the destroyed love tree and her eyes were overflowing with sadness. She remembered the words of her mother, which now in hindsight felt so true.
"Life is bitter-sweet…and rarely goes your way. Brace for it."
Lis sighed deeply and shook her head….bitter-sweet indeed.
"What are you doing out here all alone?" Hjorthur's heavy voice drew her out of her contemplations.
She inhaled sharply and took a step back.
He reached out to steady her. "I scared you."
"Surprised me." She corrected.
He smiled. "So what are you doing out here in the snowstorm alone?"
Lis crossed her arms and turned towards the High Road. "I was looking at the destroyed Love Tree." She replied thoughtfully.
"It didn't stand a chance against Durin's wrath." Hjorthur said quietly.
"I know."
"You sound and look sad. Is it about the tree?" He frowned.
Lis shrugged. "About that too."
"About what else?" The caring tone in his voice gave her pause.
She looked at him thoughtfully.
"I mean you can tell me if you want to…." He offered with a sweet smile.
Lis observed his handsome face, which looked all too eager to please her and felt her heart warming up. "I guess I am kind of sad for realizing that life can get so bitter-sweet."
He came next to her and mimicked her pose. He crossed his arms and looked towards the broken tree. "Bitter why and sweet why?"
Lis inhaled deeply. "Bitter because a childhood dream of mine has just died…."
His brows wrinkled. "Which childhood dream?"
"That I would find my prince…" Lis murmured and her eyes watered.
Hjorthur raised his brows. "And sweet because?" His voice was barely heard.
She looked at him intensely. "Because the dream might have died, but hope hasn't …." A ghostly smile appeared on her lips.
Hjorthur cleared his throat and rearranged the hood over his head. "I mean…I know…that I will sound stupid and all…and you can curse me all you wish…but I want to tell you something."
She smiled. "Go on, I won't bite."
He coughed and turned away. It took him several moments to gain the courage to meet her gaze again. "I can maybe try to be your prince…." He stammered.
Lis' brows lifted up to her hairline.
"I mean I am not a Prince….per se….I am a mere soldier….and I know we are just friends and all and nothing more….but ….you see….I…I…" He stumbled.
Lis' lips curled up slowly. "Are you courting me?"
"Courting you…ha…no…I wouldn't dare….I mean…maybe…" He was looking at her timidly.
Another warm wave passed through Lis' heart which ended in her stomach. "How about we take things slowly?…." She offered.
"How about we do that? Yes, good idea." He pointed out keenly.
"How about not agreeing with me all the time?" Her smile grew larger.
He flinched. "I will try…"
"How about we learn first how to be friends?" She continued.
He rolled his eyes. "I am being friend-zoned, right?"
Lis swallowed heavily and it took a lot of effort for her to reach out and clasp his hand. She remained silent.
Hjorthur, looked down at their joined hands like a buffoon. Then he met her eyes.
"I just need time to learn how not to be a soldier…" She explained quietly.
Hjorthur pressed his lips and looked at her longingly. "Have as much time as you need."
"Maybe I will need even more time to understand how to feel like a girl…." She continued and felt her eyes watering.
"Maybe I can help you with that…." He offered eagerly.
She smiled.
"Unless I am doomed to remain in the friend-zone." He hurried.
She squeezed his hand. "I would like for you to help me." She said and felt her cheeks blushing.
Hjorthur exhaled loudly. "Alright….we got through that obstacle without dying."
Lis snorted and pressed his hand tightly. "Do you think we can choose another Love Tree?"
"And do what with it?" He frowned.
"We can go to the mountain side, gather winter flowers and re-create all the posies that were destroyed that evening." She said and released his hand.
He felt his heart dropping. "O-kay…" He mumbled surprised.
Then she took his arm and brought it around her shoulder.
He froze and his eyes grew wide.
She leaned against his chest and looked at the thick snow. "Then we can bring them all to the new Love Tree so we can help all those possible romantic affairs blossom."
"I thought you didn't really care about the Love Tree." He smiled down at her.
"I don't care about the tree, but I'd like to give a chance to all those couples that are in love. Don't you?" She looked at him.
Hjorthur felt his heart palpitating as he squeezed her shoulder tightly. "That is such a caring thought. It will be an honor for me to help you."
Lis' features softened. "We will make a posy for Durin too."
Another warm squeeze from Hjorthur blossomed a smile on her pale lips and she felt her eyes drying. "Can we make one for us….maybe?"
"I suppose we can." She was still smiling.
They remained embraced timidly like that in front of the gates, looking at the broken Love Tree for what felt like an eternity and their youthful, unscathed hearts were overflowing with anticipation for the future.
-.-
"Come on you stubborn Dwarf…open your eyes. I know you are with me." Celebriel's voice intruded his dizzy mind.
Durin groaned and the moment his eyelids fluttered open, the bright light made him wince. He said something unintelligible and closed his eyes again.
"Hey look at me…." Celebriel palmed his bearded cheek.
Durin coughed and recoiled as his side send him a stabbing pain. "Where am I?" He mumbled.
"In the Hidden Land…." She whispered and smiled lovingly at his confused expression.
"The what?" Another cough made him flinch in pain.
"Here I will get you some water. You are in Lothlórien you silly man." Celebriel said and reached out to fill him a glass of fresh water.
"Lothlórien…?" He murmured and lifted himself up on his elbows.
"I don't know if you were aiming to come here, but this is where you are at…" She teased.
He nodded, unable to stop looking utterly bewildered. "This is where I am at…." He repeated in a monotone.
She placed the glass in his hand and helped him hold it. "Heavens Durin, you are driving me crazy. Look at me. Who am I? Do you recognize me?"
He drank a few sips carefully. Then he looked up at her. "You are my Celly."
Celebriel felt a wave of warmth spreading in her cheeks and took the glass from his hand. "Well, at least you are not suffering from any memory loss. You worried me for a moment back there."
Durin tried to push himself up to a sitting position.
"Let me help you." She offered.
When he was finally up, he looked at her with a pair of the saddest eyes she had ever seen.
"Why are you looking so defeated?" She frowned.
"How did I end up in bed, feeling like I crashed against a stone wall in warg speed?" He rubbed his forehead.
"Your untreated wound got the best of you. Don't you remember anything?" She said and fixed his covers around his lap.
"I remember seeing Lothlórien from far away and then darkness. Nothing else." His features were veiled with doubt.
"Well, one of our marsh-wardens found you, which was very lucky since it is freezing out there." She stood up and went to fetch him a fresh tunic.
"How long have I been out?" Durin murmured and pushed the covers away from his body. When his feet touched the ground they felt weak and numb.
"Four days." Celebriel rejoined nonchalantly as she was checking the tunic.
"What?!" He thundered. The pain that erupted from his side was mind-numbing. He groaned and doubled down.
Celebriel came back quickly and wrapped her arm around his shoulder. "Will you stop yelling you pigheaded Dwarf? You are still recuperating. You need to be careful."
"Four bloody days?!" He muttered and his hand touched his bandage.
Celebriel sat next to him and tucked a few long locks behind his ear. "You have been battling fever for two days and sleeping off your exhaustion and illness for the other two. Why do you act like a child now?"
"Didn't you try to wake me up?" He glared at her.
"No, I like it better when you are asleep." She smiled playfully.
He looked at her dazed.
"Less ….." –She pointed at him- "grouchiness."
Durin held her eyes for several moments before looking away. "I am sorry if I sounded grumpy right now." He rejoined quietly.
"You are excused. You suffered for several days. Now raise your arms." She urged him.
He looked at her.
"I want to help you dress." She showed him the tunic.
Durin felt his cheeks blushing and looked away. Then he lifted up his arms and allowed her to slide the tunic over his naked upper body. He felt her fussing around him, trying to check if he was alright. He cleared his throat restlessly and felt his stomach twisting tightly.
When she finished she settled next to him and placed her hands calmly upon her thighs. "There you go…how does that feel?"
"Okay…" He mumbled.
She bumped her shoulder to his. "Come on don't act as if this wound is going to scar you for life. You are healing pretty well and you are out of danger. Besides a few scars on your body will make you even more alluring for all the pretty ladies."
He swallowed so stiffly, he thought the sound reverberated all around the forest. "Does your great-grandmother….know…. that I am her?" He stumbled for words.
Celebriel's smile was bright. "Of course she does. She is the one who cured you. Do you think it is easy for anyone to get in and out of this forest without her knowing?"
Durin shook his head embarrassed.
"I bet she even knows what we are doing right now." Celebriel continued the tease.
Durin shuffled a little further away from her.
Celebriel's silvery laugh wrung in his ears and kick-started his heart. "What is this? Are you afraid she is going to scold you for sitting so close to me?"
"I don't know." Durin muttered.
"She knows we are friends." Celebriel scooted closer to him.
Their shoulders touched and Durin felt his body standing in attention. "Friends…yes." He whispered.
Celebriel looked at him with a slight frown. "You didn't ask me anything about your family since you woke up."
Durin looked at her briefly and attempted a smile. Then he stippled his fingers tightly. "What should I ask you about them?"
"If we have informed them that you are here. Which we have done, by the way." Celebriel said cleverly.
"There is no need for me to ask. They know already. Well, at least my father does." Durin said quietly. He felt physically unable to look Celebriel in the eyes for some reason.
Her hand touched his shoulder lightly. "So Lothlórien was your true destination after all. You didn't come here by mistake?" Her voice deepened.
"No…" He shook his head.
Her fingers tightened on him. "I thought you were getting ready to depart for the Dwarrowdelf and resume your battles."
"I thought so too, but something far more important came up." He forced himself to look at her.
When she saw those penetrating azure eyes she felt her confidence backing away quickly. "More important than Moria?"
"I …..needed…" –He stammered and closed his eyes. Then his fingers became taut- "My mother gave birth."
"Congratulations!" -Celebriel yelled and then threw her arms around his neck. She leaned over and placed several eager kisses on his cheek- "A boy or a girl?!"
"Girl, named Ida." He gritted his teeth and felt the tension galloping down his back. Why did this feel so damned difficult for him? Why was Thrárin able to make all this seem so easy, when it wasn't?
Celebriel leaned her head on his shoulder. "And you came all this way just to tell me that?"
"Yes…." –He instantly regretted it- "I mean no…." –He regretted that even more.
Celebriel looked up with a frown. "What is wrong? You don't sound happy at all that your mom gave birth."
"No, I am…but this is not what is ailing my mind. That is not why I came here…" He stumbled.
Celebriel cupped his cheek and turned him around. "Hey, look at me." She said softly.
He did, with great effort.
"What is wrong with you?" She frowned.
Let your pride bleed at her feet….
He closed his eyes. "I came here to see you…." His voice was barely heard.
She looked at him confused. "But we saw each other in Erebor, not long ago…."
"I needed to speak with you." He added quickly.
"We said all there was to be said in Erebor too…." She rejoined. Her face was slowly shifting as she was trying to comprehend what he was telling her.
"Back then I didn't say the right things to you Celly….please forgive me." He choked and looked at his hands.
She pulled his face towards her with more determination. "Durin, what are you trying to tell me?"
He shook his head and felt his eyes watering.
She noticed it and then her gaze fell on his parted lips. "When you are looking at me like that it is difficult not to try and kiss you again." She murmured.
"Why don't you do it then?" He challenged her.
Her eyes found his solemnly. "Because you begged me not to, remember? …."
"What if I begged you to try again now?" He breathed heavily.
Celebriel looked at him dazed. "I won't do it….I am sorry…." She murmured.
He felt his heart dropping and gritted his teeth. His steadied his soul and felt his hand lifting up to her face. He palmed her cheek and felt her amazingly soft skins grazing his palm. His throat clenched. "Then I will try to do it instead…." He didn't know if what he said was a warning or just a declaration, but he waited for her. He waited to see if she was going to push him away.
Celebriel was looking at him bewitched and speechless.
Durin leaned down and their lips barely brushed.
She gasped and pulled back slightly.
Durin's stomach dropped, but he didn't draw back. "I want to kiss you…." The effort it took for him to say those words was far less than the torture he underwent till he reached this critical point.
"You want to kiss me?" She muttered lost.
He nodded and his thumb stroked her neck gently. "Yes."
"Despite your vow?" She whispered.
Another nod.
"What if I don't want to kiss you back?" She licked her lips.
"Then I will be forced to accept your rejection." He said bravely, even though inside he was falling apart.
She pressed her lips. "I should deny you, you know."
He closed his eyes.
"I should deny you not once, but many times over….because you have made my life hell all those years. I don't know what made you change your mind now…..but maybe I have changed my mind as well. Do you think that it is courteous to deny the advances of a girl and then expect it to be on call whenever you change your mood?" She scowled.
He pulled back then and shook his head. "No, you are right." He admitted in defeat.
Celebriel nodded. "How does it feel?"
Durin's lips curled down. "What?"
"Rejection …. How does it feel?" Her features were clouded.
"Painful…." He admitted bitterly.
She tilted her head. "Now you know how I felt all those times that I kissed you only to be rejected because of that stupid oath."
"You are right….I was so stupid." He spoke with a hushed tone, feeling his heart in serious pain.
Celebriel took a deep breath and stood up. "You are my friend, but that is the only thing you are ever going to be Durin." She said flatly and walked out to the balcony.
Durin remembered the words of his father and understood how bad it felt to be rejected by the girl you loved. The only thing he wanted to do now was get up and leave as fast as he could in order to not make a bigger fool of himself to her than he had done already. However when his eyes lifted up to her silhouette that was still in front of the magical backdrop of Lothlórien he felt his bitterness slowly dissipating. She had every right to reject him. He had done so many times in the past without thinking of her emotions. He pushed himself up with difficulty and took a few steps. The back of a chair helped him not crash to the floor.
He took a deep breath and a newfound determination appeared upon his countenance. He released the chair and walked out to the balcony. When he came next to her, he grabbed the railing for dear life. Then he straightened his upper chest as much as he could and looked at her intently.
She turned to him. Her eyes were wet.
He reached out and wiped the tears away. Then a smile formed on his lips. "I didn't come here to experiment with you Celly, nor to hurt you. I came because when my mother gave birth I realized that my vow was for naught. A stupid childish promise not to be the one to ever make a woman suffer through labor …nothing more. However when I saw how ecstatic my mother was while she was holding Ida, I understood that child-birth is a blessing to both parents. Yes, it is painful and a man must suffer as the woman he loves goes through labor, but what comes out is simply amazing…. their love forming into a new life…."
Celebriel looked like she was in rapture.
His forefinger traced her jawline. "When my mother gave birth I understood that my oath was silly…and that I must gather the courage needed to see the woman I love go through child-birth in the future."
"Then all that remains is for you to find a woman to love." She swallowed heavily.
"I have her already…." He shrugged and pinched her chin.
She was frozen.
"It's just that she denied me and she had every right." He said softly.
"Why so?" Her eyes darted all over his face.
"Because I was an idiot and now I must pay. I must settle to be her friend for life… but nothing more." His frown was deeply sad.
"Will you be able to do that?" She murmured.
"If that is what I need to do not to lose her, yes." His voice was solemn.
"It's okay, you will find another woman soon. Someone as gorgeous as you shall not remain alone." Her smile was bitter.
"I don't want anyone else Celly." His voice had a graveness that she had never heard before.
"So you will settle for loneliness?" Her brow wrinkled.
"I will devote myself to war." He looked towards the forest pensively.
"Then you will deny the pleasure of your lips to one very lucky girl." She said in a throaty voice.
"I will offer pain to my enemies instead." His eyes found her parted lips.
She remained silent.
"Maybe it is best that you rejected me Celly." He said with quiet abandon.
"Why so?"
"Because no woman will ever be happy by my side as I battle the demons of Moria. I might die any moment. Whoever stands by my side, must be ready to mourn me, before even marrying me. That is not a blessed way of life. I shouldn't yearn to set this curse upon any girl, much less upon you….you whom I value so much….you whom…" He stopped and felt his eyes burning.
"Whom?" She took a step closer.
"Whom I love so dearly. You mean too much for me to hurt you." He whispered feeling conquered emotionally and physically by her.
Her inhalation was audible, but Durin couldn't hear anything. He could only feel her presence ever so close to his. "My father despises you." Her breath caressed his face.
He closed his eyes. "I don't care."
"We are worlds apart…"
"And yet always there for each other, remember? Ever since we were children." He said softly.
She placed her hands on his shoulders and took another step closer. Their noses barely touched. "Maybe you are rushing too much to break your vow with me."
"It took me too long to do it…" He said and his hands came around her waist.
"Maybe we will regret it in the future." She breathed heavily as her mouth almost touched his.
"We won't know unless we try." His voice was coarse.
"A Dwarf-Lord and an Elven Maiden….mortal enemies in the past…" Her fingers stroked the side of his neck gently.
"I don't care about the past. I don't care who you are, who I am or about your family and your kin. I just care about you….allow me at least to do that if I cannot have anything more from you." His voice was brittle.
"You silly, silly Dwarf." She said thickly.
"I am silly in love…..with you and for the first time I am not afraid to say it." He whispered.
Celebriel's porcelain skin got filled with tears as her lips touched his gently.
They inhaled deeply and held their breaths. Durin felt his heart ready to jump out of his chest. After a few moments she pulled back slowly, but he didn't give her the chance. He didn't want to lose her lips this time. He palmed her cheek, drew her up to him and pressed his lips on hers without knowing how to do it properly. He just followed the cues of his body. The softness of those pearls bestirred his very soul. The more he touched her, the more hungrily he longed to take in everything that she was giving him. He began kissing her more urgently and soon enough his lips parted to allow his tongue to come out and play with the ridges of her soft mouth. Instantly his body awarded him with a rush of heat for this effort, letting him know that he was on the right track, especially since Celly was reciprocating his touch.
However when he felt her tongue coming out to search for his, his need to devour her skyrocketed so suddenly that he nibbled her bottom lip a little too hard. She inhaled sharply and he felt his stomach dropping. He pulled back and touched her lip with his thumb. "I am sorry, did I hurt you?"
Her usually porcelain white skin was now flushed and her chest was undulating hard. Her eyes were glimmering with unspoken words and her fingers were twisted tightly around his thick wrists. She was heaving. "No…" Her voice was tremulous.
"I don't know how to kiss. I don't know how to express my love for you. Forgive me." He looked visibly embarrassed.
The smile that adorned her face was the most beautiful he had ever seen. "It's okay. Me neither."
He leaned his forehead against hers. "Did it feel alright to you?"
"Alright?" She frowned.
"I mean did it make you feel anything…or was it flat…and empty." He didn't know how to express himself.
She reached up to touch his temple. Then she took his hand and placed it on her bosom. "Do you feel this?" She whispered.
He felt the mad thumbing of her heart and the heat of her skin. "Yes."
"You made this happen….with your kiss…" Her breath caressed his senses.
He closed his eyes and his lips touched hers again. "I want to kiss you again…"
"Then do it…." She closed her eyes.
"You want me to?"
"More than anything, you fool." She said breathlessly.
"Even though I am so inexperienced?"
"I am happy that you are….I wouldn't want you to have experience from kissing with other girls." She smiled and drew her lips upon his.
He felt his heart racing and pulled her in hard, longing to feel the soft curves of her body against the hardness of his. That felt so right….so right. "Have you experimented with anyone?"
"Never….I am as inexperienced as you are." She murmured and moaned softly when he pecked her.
"Do you think we learn together?" He whispered timidly.
"I thought you'd never ask." She closed her eyes.
He came down to stroke her mouth with his. "Can we keep on kissing forever please?"
"Yes….forever." Her lips parted.
"I never want to stop….I love you Celly." His voice was overflowing with emotions that had been locked up tight for too long and yearned to break free.
"I love you too….my big brave stubborn Dwarf." She responded with a loving smile.
They kissed then, with all the inexperience and passion of their youth. Not caring about doing engaging so zealously in the balcony for all the Elves to see. Not minding that Galadriel always felt what was going on around her forest. Not wanting to think of the hell that awaited for Durin in Moria, or the menace Celebriel's father felt for Dwarves. At that moment they didn't care about the world around them.
At that moment Celebriel knew that he held her heart and Durin knew that she held his…and that for them was the only truth that was worth knowing.
Live by heart
Beaming love and peace
Letting magic pave the road ahead
Look inside you
For the book of truth
Anchor to your soul and follow
All the way north, back home (*)
THE END
A/N: (*) Two Steps from Hell – Wild heart.
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