ReForged

by jezzibee83

Reforged is about second chances, new life, and lost love. Journey through middle earth from the perspective of the Durin's. Given a second chance, the sons of Durin and our treasured Tauriel are sent back two years before the battle of five armies, only having the knowledge they died. Is it enough to change the future? Will they be able to save what was lost? Can life be reforged?

26. Chapter Twenty-Five

Authors Note: This is a bit of a more light-hearted chapter. The calm before the storm if you will. I literally have one more chapter to write for this story, it will be twenty-eight chapters long. Bitter-sweet I guess to be so close to the end. You aren't there yet. Got a few things to explain as always, so see you at the end.

Chapter Twenty-Five

The next day came too fast for Tauriel's liking. She opened her eyes and threw the blanket back after trying and failing to get comfortable for the last ten minutes. Kili was clearly gone making the bed too cold to want to stay in and now that she was awake, her stomach was crying out for food. She looked around the room, evidently, she slept longer than she thought, as she was the last one to arise. Even Fili woke before her. That was new. Tauriel sighed and pushed herself out of bed. She took a moment to assess her body, it felt stiff and slightly achy, but overall, she felt fine apart from the slight burning and itching from her still healing hand wound. Although, she did need to get to the washroom, and quickly. She thought having pressing matters such as these did not happen until well into pregnancy, but it appears she was mistaken.

Tauriel opened the chamber door and peered into the hall. She quickly found where everyone had seemingly ended up. "Oh, this is not good little one. A'mad does not think she can wait in that." Scanning the hall, her eyes fell on every single one in attendance at their mountain all lined up outside the one working washroom, each grumbling, some to themselves, others loudly at the door to hurry up and move along. She even spotted her little family in various places in line. As Kili was near the back, she went to him first.

Though Kili's attention was at first on the long line of dwarrows awaiting their turn, he quickly spotted his red-headed beauty and his eyes brightened as she stepped up to him. "Amralime! Good morning." Tauriel leaned in for a quick kiss but stepped back and eyed the line. "Kili, how long has everyone been here?" Looking back to the line Kili began to grumble something that sounded like "too long". He turned back to Tauriel but she was already gone, her hair flying behind her as she continued up the line to Thorin.

"Is there a problem? With the washroom?" Thorin shook his head "Not unless you qualify overly long showers as a problem. He has been in there for nearly an hour. Any longer and we may have a small war on our hands." He turned to Tauriel but she was gone, going further up the line. Good luck to her.

Of all the dwarrow who would have gotten to the washroom first, she did not expect the next in line to be Fili. He was leaning against the wall with his arms folded looking as if he was trying to concentrate…hard. "Fili, are you alright?" The blond prince opened one eye then shut it again once he had a look at her. "Busy trying not to have an accident. Though.." He considered after a moment, lifting one eyelid to look at her before shutting them again… "it would be worth anything if you can get that elf out of the washroom so we can get on with our day. By the time he gets out, Balin will have already passed and Thorin would need a walking staff."

"Oi. We ain't deaf boy!" Balin yelled from a few Dwarrow down. Tauriel did not even react, she staired intently at her brother. "Anything?" She asked. Fili opened his eyes and stood straight. "Anything. If you can get him out in the next five minutes. Whatever you want little sisters will be yours." Tauriel gave him a nod in acceptance and turned to the door, lifting her hand to nock. With her enhanced hearing, she heard the sound of water streaming and someone humming. Naurfaer will be the death of her.

"Naurfaer! Have you not been in there long enough? There are many who have use for this room." Fili shook his head and chuckled. He leaned back against the wall once again and closed his eyes. "Already tried that. What do you think we have been doing for the last hour?" Not ready for defeat, she tried the handle. "Locked." Fili sang. "Tried that too." Tauriel glared at the blond-prince. That was it. She turned back to the door knocking hard. This time she heard the water shut off.

"Naurfaer, your great-grandchild is resting on my bladder. If you do not vacate this room now, I will be forced to kill you. Do not think that I will not." Had she looked, fourteen pairs of eyes would be staring at her as each took bets on which elf would break first. To many of their surprise, it was only a second later the hallway filled with steam as Naurfaer stepped from the washroom.

"Forgive me Tauriel, I did not know you were waiting." Tauriel did not even look at the elf only pushed her way past him straight into the washroom slamming the door.

"OI! TAURIEL! I was next!" Tauriel opened the door just a crack to look at Fili who was glaring at her. "I accept your place in line as payment for getting Naurfaer out of the washroom in under five minutes." She then slammed the door in his face, causing him to jump back and stare dumbfoundedly at the door. "Can she do that?"

"Oh aye lad, I do believe she can an' did. Which means…to the back with yeh." That was not fair! Fili looked to Bofur who was just behind him and trying not to laugh hard at the prince's face. "The back? Why the back?" Fili whined.

"Because, yeh agreed there lad. 'whatever you want and it will be yours' I believe we all heard it." Fili was about to respond to Dwalin when his eyes fell on Naurfaer still standing in the hallway.

"What exactly are you wearing there Naurfaer?" The taller elf looked down. He had woken in a rather strange room filled with all kinds of goods and jewels separate from the main treasure horde, already wearing the robe. He really had no recollection on putting it on or where he got it to begin with. He just figured, since his clothes were still drying from being washed, he could use it while his things were drying over the fire. They should actually be dry by now, he thought to himself. Though, he did really enjoy this robe, which was more like a cloak, if not a short one, at least for him. The robe itself may be warm and comfortable all long, fur, and soft black leather, but it only went to the elf's knees.

Naurfaer looked at Fili and shrugged. He really did not have an answer. "I really am not sure where it came from, just woke up with it this morning. To be honest, after winning that drinking contest with Bofur, not much is pulling up as far as memories." Bofur gave him a bright smile. They had found some really, really old barrels and broke into them. Bofur was out within a few glasses. It was some potent stuff. So where the robe actually came from was anyone's guess.

"That would be mine." Everyone turned to Thorin who was trying to not kill the elf, if only for Tauriel's sake. He glared at Naurfaer who leaned around Fili to see who had spoken, as if he did not know the deep voice of the one and only Thorin Oakenshield.

He stepped past a still annoyed looking Fili right up to Thorin. "Oh! I did not know. Forgive me. You will be wanting it back, of course!" Then, to everyone's horror, the elf slipped the robe off. The air immediately filled with loud protests. Now standing in the middle of the hallway in Erebor, as if he had not a care in middle earth, the stark naked Naurfaer held the robe out to the dwarven king.

Thorin looked down at the robe as if it was the bane of his existence before swiftly growling out "Keep it."

Naurfaer looked from Thorin to the robe "Are you sure?" Thorin only glared at the elf. He had no desire for that back. He gave a subtle nod, not trusting his words to not be harsh. Naurfaer smiled brightly "Thank you. It is a wonderful gift." Unfortunately, instead of putting the robe back on he tucked it under his arm, and proceeded, completely nude, down the hallway towards where his clothes were drying.

"I think I am goin' to gouge me eyes out." Everyone in the hallway grumbled in agreement with Gloin. Thorin rubbed his temples as he heard Nori from just behind him declare to Dori "HA! Told yeh he was no elf maid! You owe me brother. Pay up."

"That is it! I am going outside." Fili threw his hands into the air and proceeded towards one of the many doors leading outside the mountain. Thorin sighed as he watched his nephew turn the corner then looked back at the closed door several dwarrows up. "Dwalin, maybe a goal for today would be to get another washroom ready." Dwalin muttered his agreement just as the door opened and a beaming Tauriel stepped out Bofur immediately running in behind her. Well. At least the line is moving now.

The mountain was in shambles. The dragon had truly left his mark in damage of the interior and exterior of their beloved homeland. There was more to do then they had dwarven power to accomplish, but even before they could consider repairs, there were pressing matters to attend to such as the men, women, and children of the old Lake Town due to be here any day now. Which is why Thorin had called Fili, Kili, and to Tauriel's surprise, herself to discuss plans for the approaching humans.

They sat together in one of the usable rooms which had a large stone table in its center. It was once used for small meetings of the guard according to Thorin. Which made sense since it appears they were in one of the guards wings considering their barrack like rooms, one washroom, and smaller kitchen. She could not wait to see everything Erebor had to offer.

Thorin sat back staring at the three across from him, a stern but not unkind look on his face. He had asked them to give him a full account of everything that happened from the moment he left to them arriving at the mountain. He hushed out another apology to Kili when they got to the part where Kili had all but died right on the table, Tauriel bringing him back mere seconds from both of them losing their life. Kili just waived it off saying they were fine now, and to think nothing on it. Kili was only happy to have his uncle back to himself. His young nephew, always so forgiving. Thorin gave him a small smile before gesturing them to continue.

They all sat in silence once they had Thorin caught up. He looked between each of them. "It would seem we need to make a plan. Fili, what would you have me do? I want your honesty full and uncensored. You are next in line to be king, what would you counsel?" If Fili was surprised to be asked such a thing, he did not show it. Instead he sat forward considering his options.

"You promised the master of Lake Town a portion of gold. We should honor our word. They will need it to rebuild and survive the harsh winter." He looked up at Thorin who was silently watching him.

"Aye, but my promises were made to another, one who did not survive. Would you still say we are honor bound to such promises?" Fili's eyebrows lowered in concern of his uncle's thoughts. It was not like Thorin to go back on his word and this was slowly turning into something he would expect from sick Thorin, not his uncle.

"It was made to the master of Lake Town, yes, but in a way, it was made to his position rather than his person. Bard will more than likely be the leader of the human-folk. The promise then should fall to him." He carefully watched his uncle. He was looking intently at Fili as if trying to discern his thoughts then a smile lit his face. "Very good Fili. I agree."

Thorin turned to Kili "Do you agree Kili? Again, I ask for your full honesty. As brother of the future king, it will be your duty to speak especially if you feel your king is making a mistake that could hurt our people or others we are aligned with. We are imperfect beings, mistakes happen. You have Fili's ear and trust so it falls to you to help him see more than one side, as there always several views. It is also important to remember, more than one way may be right, one just might be a better choice." Kili thought on Thorin's counsel then nodded and looked at his brother who sat just beside him, Tauriel being on his other side.

"I agree with Fili in full. We owe a debt to the people of Lake Town, a debt that falls to Bard. He did fell the dragon with his own arrow, a dragon we unleashed. We have a responsibility and an honor-duty to fulfill." Thorin rubbed his hand through his beard on his chin as he considered their words carefully. He then finally turned to Tauriel.

"Tauriel, you are as much a part of this as Kili and Fili. They both need your thoughts and counsel as do I. Do you agree?" Tauriel did not even need to think. "Fully. Many of their numbers are very young or equally elderly. They will surely perish without our help. Though, if I may, I do offer one concern." Thorin waived his hand, giving her silent permission to continue.

"In the forest, I spent much time among council meetings and assemblies with the king as a captain of his guard. Many of the settlements on the outskirts of Mirkwood would brave the forest in dire times requesting help and aid from the king of the elves, and though Thranduil has a reputation for being cold and uncaring, whenever approached, he always gave what was within Mirkwood means to give." She paused looking at her family. None seemed too incensed by the mention of Mirkwood or Thranduil, so she went on "He always gave" she repeated "but also made it known it was a temporary boon and they were to seek ways to sustain themselves as to not find their settlements relying on others to survive."

She looked between her uncle, husband, and brother who were all thinking on her words before Thorin nodded, a proud smile on his face. "Well thought, Tauriel." Fili and Kili looked curiously at her before Fili nodded understanding.

"Make sure they are self-sustaining. That makes a lot of sense." Kili finally adding in after Fili "We do not want Dale to rely on Erebor's gold stores to live. They need to be able to come up with gold on their own." Thorin beamed at his family. He was proud that they will be there together to rule in his stead. They will do a fine job, a fine job indeed.

"Well done, all three of you. My thoughts exactly. We will need to arrange for a meeting with Bard as soon as he gets here." He paused, his eyes going to the small thin opening acting as a window in the small room. "It may be a good idea to send out a few in our company to meet them. We do not have much, but I want you three to gather some supplies we can spare along with coverings for warmth. Be it blankets, curtains, or whatever you can find that would suffice. Then ride out to help in any way you can. Are you three up to that? There is much to do here but I think this is a far more important task to undertake at this given time."

Tauriel, Fili, and Kili instantly agreed and without another word, Thorin dismissed them to their assignment. It took a few hours or searching and working with Bombur to see what food can be spared. They were just about to set off when Thorin met them at the gate, stepping in front of them and hushing out "Take the elf with you." Tauriel stared at her uncle then was about to say she was already going when he shook his head and pointed to Naurfaer who was trailing Dwalin…a rather annoyed looking Dwalin. "I meant that one." He rumbled out then left before any one of them could argue. Tauriel sighed before looking to her brother and husband.

"Why are we stuck on babysitting duty." Kili groaned. Fili murmured something about Thorin punishing them while Tauriel just folded her arms and huffed.

"Oi, you three, get going!" They all jumped at Thorin voice bellowing across the hall and Tauriel was the first to turn and walk towards the door, Fili and Kili following close behind when Thorin's voice once again filled the hall. "Stop…aren't you forgetting something?" Tauriel sighed, the two beside her rolling their eyes skyward at their uncle who knew what they were doing. She turned back around, her long hair swinging behind her and she walked up to Naurfaer. "Thorin wishes us to meet the human-folk with provisions as they make their way to Dale from Lake Town. We could use your assistance, should you be free to give it."

"Of course." Naurfaer smiled but turned to Dwalin "That is if you can handle this without me." Dwalin did not even say a word, only glared at the elf who did not seem phased at all. Naurfaer shrugged and turned to join Tauriel, Fili, and Kili who were already heading out towards the makeshift stable. They had found a working dual horse cart they could use to both carry supplies, themselves, and when they reached the people, a few who were struggling to walk.

"How far away do you think they are?" The small group of two elves and two dwarrow had barely traveled an hour outside Dale but there still seemed to be no sign of the people of the destroyed lake city. Tauriel looked to Kili who was still craning his neck as he stood on the seat of the wagon to peer ahead. "I do not know Meleth Nin. I do not think they should be too much further." They were hoping to not travel too long, as they had not expected to have to make camp, though were willing to if they needed. Kili stepped down and took his seat so they could set off once again. Tauriel looked around her small little group. Kili currently had the reigns beside her and sitting in the back with their sparse supplies were a napping Fili and Naurfaer who was staring off into the distance.

She turned herself more towards the back, facing the solemn looking elf. "Naurfaer? Is everything alright?" He turned his green eyes to her and gave her an easy smile. "Course." She lifted one eyebrow and Naurfaer sighed "You are well adjusted here, and accepted. I wonder how you did it? I do not know much of the dwarven people, but I do know they are rarely accepting of even friends outside their own race, let alone lovers." He gave Kili a curious look who was listening but still turned forward watching the path ahead.

"And elves rarely tarry outside their own peoples lands and regions. Perhaps oddities is a family trait." Kili chuckled beside Tauriel, adding in "I am starting to think cheek is as well." Tauriel smacked her husband who was beaming at her. "Should I say ouch?" He laughed. Tauriel glared at him then rolled her eyes "He says I have cheek."

Naurfaer was watching the entire interaction with amusement. These two were surly matched perfectly, though he was curious how an elf and dwarf became such a pair. He watched with a warm smile when Tauriel leaned over kissing Kili on the side of his head, the young prince's grin widening as he turned his head to gaze fondly at the red-haired she-elf. "Having spent the last several days among dwarrows, I cannot help but see the truths in the rumors. No offence young master Kili," Kili nodded from his place still watching the road. "but, your people are certainly not a trusting lot. I spent the entire morning with Dwalin seeking out a washroom and he barely said more than a word."

Kili laughed. "Consider yourself lucky. He nearly killed Tauriel the first time they met. Being silent is an improvement." Tauriel sighed and nodded in agreement when Naurfaer looked to her seeking validation of the claim, then sat back. "I do not think that is the information he is seeking meleth nin." Tauriel looked from Kili back to Naurfaer "Give them time. You must show them you are more than just, pointy ears and elven blood. They are not so hard hearted as we are taught. Once they see you for who you are inside, they will open themselves to you." She smiled at Naurfaer as she laced her fingers with Kili's larger ones.

"She's not wrong. Our races have been at odds for many ages, each taught to dislike the other since birth. Don't worry yourself though Naurfaer. Even the great elf hating Thorin Oakenshield can love an elf as a daughter and accept her into the family. You prove your worth, and I am sure you will find your place among the dwarrow too. If that is what you want." Naurfaer scrutinized the back of the dark-haired prince. An oddity in himself for choosing to love an elf, yet, despite their unusualness of their coupling, they just seem…right.

"Prove my worth. Should not be too difficult." A huffed laugh came from the now awake Fili who was staring at Naurfaer with an amused smirk. "Good luck."

Naurfaer cocked his head at the blonde prince. "Is that doubt I hear?" Fili laughed out "At its purest form, elf."

Naurfaer sat back against the side of the rocking cart, scrutinizing the young dwarf across from him. "How about a wager then? You dwarves love a good bet. I already won a hefty bag from Bofur last evening, maybe you should put your gold where you mouth is." Fili raised an eyebrow and leaned forward clearly intrigued. "Alright" he smiled. "But what's in it for me?"

Naurfaer reached into his long great-coat and pulled out his beloved mithril blades. Tauriel watched, eyes widening at the implication. "Naurfaer, are you sure? I do not think that is a good idea." She was trying to warn him. Dwarrow, when a bet is at hand…especially a bet including something they REALLY want, will stop at nothing to win. Judging by the way Fili was practically drooling over the weapon, Tauriel believed he would do anything to obtain it short of killing Naurfaer which, she will have to discuss with her brother, was not allowed.

Fili reached out for the blades but Naurfaer pulled it back at the last second. "Na ah ah. Rules." Fili pouted and sat back, folded his arms, and stared at the elf across from him. "One week, one week to get twelve of the Dwarrows to what? Accept me?" Fili nodded, thinking.

"And how exactly are you going to judge that?" Tauriel narrowed her eyes at the two in the back. She did not like this idea at all. Bets like these have a way of backfiring and causing more harm than good. She took a deep, calming, breath when she heard her husband open his big mouth.

"Excellent. What if each, Gloin, Bombur, Bofur, Bifur, Dwalin, Ori, Dori, Nori, Oin, Thorin, Balin, and myself have to say 'we are happy you are here Naurfaer' or something of the like. A key phrase positively accepting the elf" One look at his wife had Kili instantly correcting "…er…Naurfaer's presence." Tauriel turned her glare to her husband. He was not helping at all.

"Alright." Naurfaer agreed "sounds fair enough. For each one, I get an agreed upon amount of gold, if I cannot get them all within a sennight, you get this." He lifted his weapon. "Deal?" Fili thrust his hand out instantly grasping Naurfaer's and smiled. "This will be perfect." His eyes landed on the blades with a lust only Fili had for sharp, shiny, objects. "There they are! Kili, they are just a few miles ahead." Kili nodded to his elf and pushed Galaddal and Maryn forward as Tauriel looked behind her "We should intercept within the hour."

Just as Tauriel had said, the small group from Erebor pulled to a stop as Bard who was leading the group had crested the hill.

"Hello again. Did you make it to the mountain?" He had stopped, putting down the cart he and Bane were pulling together. Sigrid and Tilda nowhere in sight at the moment.

"We did. Thank you. Thorin sent us with some provision. It is not much, but it should help." At Tauriel's words, Fili and Naurfaer jumped out of the cart and pulled back the covering, pulling some barrels they had filled with water. Fili adding in "Thorin would like to speak to you when you can spare the time. We can set up a meeting when we reach the city." Bard nodded gratefully and called for the large group to stop. They spent then next half-hour passing out water and blankets to whomever needed it.

"About how much farther would you say we have to go?" Patting Galaddal on the nose, Bard looked ahead towards the high looming peak of the lonely mountain, steadily growing taller with each step they took. "About two, three hours at the most." Kili was standing beside Tauriel, his arm draped loosely around her waist and pulling her close. He had seen the way some of the younger men from Lake Town were looking at her and he was steadily getting annoyed. She looked down at her husband and lifted her arm closest to him to rub a trail up and down his spine, immediately easing his tension. His expression changing from glowering to a soft smile in seconds.

"An' what about our gold?" Tauriel looked over at the thin, weasel like, man. The same who had been assaulting them on the shores beyond the burned Esgaroth. Bard gave the man a frustrated growl. "Alfred, did I not say to tend to the injured?" Alfred looked as if he was going to give some indignant response, before he was interrupted.

"I am sorry Da, that would be my doing. He was upsetting them. I sent him off." Tauriel smiled as Sigrid walked up to the group. "DA! It's Tauriel and Kili!" Tilda had run up to the group, beaming at the company who had joined them. "I can see that. Thank you Tilda." The group laughed at the excited little girl.

"I see I am nobody then." Fili grumbled, causing another round of laughter. "I wouldn't say such a thing." Fili looked at Sigrid who was blushing pink as if she had not meant to say that out loud giving her a smile, the others looking between the two. He clapped his hands together when an awkward silence took over. "Are we ready to go? We are losing light and if we push it, we can be in Dale before nightfall." Bard instantly agreed and called out for everyone to push on.

With the cart now empty, it was able to take on several of the elderly passengers, though Tauriel refused to allow Kili to walk. "Meleth nin, Oin said to stay off that leg, you are pushing it already. Besides, you and I both know Maryn only listens to you or I. Nobody else would be able to control the horses. Please." Kili finally acquiesced but made sure everyone knew it was reluctantly.

The large mass of humans were slow to move. Many were still injured, not in traveling shape, or just too tired to push at the speed Tauriel had grown accustomed to moving. It took just over four hours to crest the hill outside of Dale, the group stopping to get the first view of the ruins which lay outside the great gates of Erebor. "What a dump. We are expected to live there?" Tauriel rolled her eyes skyward. She knew it was taking all of Fili's control not to kill this measly excuse for a human being. Even she was slowly losing the ability to control her fists.

"Alfred, nobody expects you do anything. In fact, you are free to go elsewhere at any time. Even encouraged." The snake like man looked taken aback as Bard just kept walking forward. Tauriel was not sure if it was so he would not say anything further or be forced to hear anything further, which seemed more accurate. Personally, she wished she never would have to hear his voice again. She tried to rub the headache away which had been slowly growing behind her eyes. Tauriel could feel some of the muscles in her body, still healing, begin protesting the miles she just walked. To add to that, she was fighting the battle of nausea most probably from the fish smell permeating the air, though she could not for the life of her pinpoint the source.

At the moment, she was thanking the Valar Kili was riding ahead and could not see her. One look and he would go into 'super overprotective son of Durin' mode. Although, she had to admit, a tiny piece of her…a very, very tiny piece would have welcomed it. She was starting to get dizzy. "Tauri, are you alright?" Tauriel closed her eyes. Speaking of overprotective sons of Durin, Fili could be just as bad as Kili. When did he even walk up to her? The last she checked, he was towards the back of the group helping Sigrid. "I am well Fili. Thank you." She stumbled hitting a small dip in the ground she would have noticed if she had opened her eyes.

Fili grabbed her just in time and helped right her. "Thank you, Fili. I was not paying attention. Really. I am well." Her brother obviously did not believe her. "You ought to be sitting in the cart, little sister. You are not only expecting, but I knew the extent of your injuries. I am sure Thorin only let you go because he knew we had a cart. I do not think he or Oin would have agreed to you or Kili coming if he thought you would be doing anything taxing."

"I agree with Fili, Tauriel." MANWE! Tauriel huffed. Why does Naurfaer turn up out of nowhere at the least opportune times. "I saw you give your water to that young girl. Compassionate as it was, she was in no grievous condition. You, on the other hand, are both healing, and in need of abundant sources of food and water to keep up with what your body is sacrificing. We are not impervious to all blites Tauriel, in fact, in many ways, an eleth's body becomes more weak and susceptible to ailment when expecting. You should take care." Tauriel glared at the other elf, then at her brother who looked much too pleased Naurfaer was siding with him.

"You know, one call and I could have Kili right here. Maybe he should share his opinion on the matter." Fili turned to yell out to his brother in the cart several meters ahead but Tauriel had wrapped her arm around his blonde head and slammed her hand over his mouth, silencing him. "Don't. You. Dare." She growled. "Kili will freak out." He leveled a narrowed eyed look at her, lifting an eyebrow as if to say 'isn't that the point?'. Tauriel sighed, releasing her brother. "Fili, I promise I am not as bad as I seem and we are about to reach the town. I will ride in the cart once we set off from the city and you and Kili can mother me all you want when we get back to Erebor."

Fili looked unconvinced for a moment, before relenting and turning forward to continue. "Fine. But I will right beside you until we reach the cart." As much as Tauriel wanted to be annoyed, she could not find it in her heart to feel anything but love and warmth for her brother, and her husband. Truth be told, neither allowed her far from them since she arrived in a flurry, seemingly back from the dead according to them, and healed Kili. One or both of them was always within calling distance as if they were afraid she would disappear. At first, she thought nothing of it. They were all close anyway, but she began to pick up on little things like Kili lingering in bed longer than normal or how he always had to be touching her to make sure she was there. Fili too rarely let her out of his sight if Kili was not nearby. The two of them, her dwarven sentinels. To be honest, she did not mind it. She too did not want to be far from Kili, or Fili. Tauriel let her face release its stoic glower and eased her lips into a smile as she linked her arm with Fili.

Naurfaer walked on her other side, but did so with an air of casualness which sang more of 'this was the speed he was going and the direction he was headed'. Though Tauriel could see his eyes going to her when he thought she was not paying attention. She just accepted it.

"So. Sigrid, hmmm?" Fili stumbled before looking up at Tauriel with a look that was pure confusion and bewilderment. "What about Sigrid?" Tauriel lifted a brow at Fili who was looking more and more baffled by the moment. Oh Fili. "Do not tell me you do not know?" Fili looked as if he was getting annoyed at the questioning.

"Can you just tell me already Tauri? I have no idea of what you speak." Naurfaer was barely containing a laugh beside her, but still looked and continued forward. "Fili, she admires you. Can you not see it?" Fili's eyes widened as he whipped his head in Sigrid's direction. Muttering a strangled…"Oh." Tauriel gave Fili a concerned look when he said no more. "Do you return her affections?" The blond prince looked at her as if she had grown a second set of pointed ears.

"She is 16 Tauriel. A child. A human child." Sighing, Tauriel carefully considered her words. "I am a 600 year old elf, and Kili is only 77. He is but an infant to me. I do not see that being a problem if you have feelings for her. Many races age differently."

"Both of you are infants to me." Naurfaer added in. Fili looked between the two elves still at a complete loss. "I am fond of the girl sure, but I do not harbor, romantic feelings, for her." Tauriel smiled at Fili. "You may want to tell her, before she forms too much of an attachment to you. You sons of Durin can be difficult to resist. That is how I got in this mess." Tauriel placed her hand on her flat stomach, Fili laughed "It takes two, dear sister. You both are to blame for that." Tauriel's tinkling laughter rang through the small group, Kili turning to look back at her with a twinkle in his eye when her heard her musical giggles. He was happy to see her happy. She sent him a special smile and he winked before turning back to face forward.

Fili truly had no idea Sigrid had any inclination towards him. He only thought she considered him a friend, nothing more. He always had been bad at reading such things, according to Kili. Sigrid was a beautiful young woman, but she was no dam. Do not get him wrong, he had no problem with other races, much of this opinion coming from Tauriel. He would not wish another mate for his brother than this fiery elf. The elf he first loved for all she had done for his family, then grew to love her with his entire heart for the person she was. However, he could not see himself with any other but a hot headed, passionate, bearded dwarrowdam.

Tauriel watched the smile form on his face as Fili walked silently still arm in arm with her. "Fili. Is there another?" Fili quickly shook his head no. "I am sure mam will be setting up many meetings with lasses from other settlements once she comes to Erebor. Though I may be in the clear for a while, giving her attention will be drawn to a certain granddwarfling." Tauriel chuckled and fondly grazed her abdomen. They passed through the gates of Dale ending all conversation as the people began to disperse to seek out shelter for the cold night ahead.

"We will be back in the morning with more provisions. Bombur was going through them today. Do you think you will be up for a meeting with Thorin?" Bard turned to the blonde prince giving a quick nod in agreement. "I will meet you in the morning and come back with you to speak with Thorin. Thank you, all of you, for your help. It is much appreciated." Fili gave a small bow and he and Tauriel joined Kili and Naurfaer at the cart.

Tauriel climbed into the now completely empty wagon to sit beside Kili, who was giving her an appraising look. She was in trouble if his dark gaze was anything to go by. "I am fine meleth nin. Just tired." He gave her a withering look before he grumbled out an 'mhm' which she ignored both as she laid her head on his shoulder and let out a soft, content, sigh. Fili and Naurfaer jumped in and indicated to Kili they were ready to go. Kili gave the reins a quick tug and they were off back to their mountain. Kili smiled as he looked down at his beloved elf, now fast asleep on his shoulder. He placed a kiss on her forehead and rested his head against hers as they exited out of Dale and cleared the small distance between the human city and Erebor's great gates.

"That will be ten gold pieces thank you." Oh for Valar's sake, Tauriel thought as she entered the small kitchen area where a very annoyed looking Fili…a very annoyed Fili covered in what looked like porridge that is, stood before a smirking Naurfaer. As much as she did not want to ask, she could not stop the question from pouring from her lips. "What exactly is going on? Or do I not want to know." She looked to Bombur who was cleaning some porridge off the floor and surrounding area, some even landing on himself. He shook his head quickly and sent Fili a contemptuous look…which was odd on his usually cheerful face as he went back to cleaning without a word.

"Fili…what did you do." Tauriel walked up to the young, blonde-prince. "ME! Why do you think it was me? I did nothing." Bombur huffed out a laugh from the kitchen but said nothing more. So Tauriel turned to Naurfaer and gave him her best 'you better tell me' look. Naurfaer stared at the prince. "He just lost some gold on the bet, that is all."

Tauriel knew there was more to the story "and the porridge?" She lifted a finger, scooping a large clump off Fili's shoulder and placing it in her mouth. It had to be the best porridge she had ever had. "Is that cinnamon?" She noted. Naurfaer beamed and nodded "and apples." He sang. "One of my specialties. I thought I would show it to Bombur as I helped him in the kitchen this morning."

Tauriel lifted her eyes to the large round dwarrow who was in the preparation area "Best idea in porridge I ever heard. I like this elf. Chopped full of great meal ideas. I cannot wait to hear what other trick 'e has up 'is sleeve." Naurfaer's smile got impossibly larger as he held his hand out to Fili. "That still does not explain why it looks as if a breakfast explosion went off in the kitchen and all over Fili." She deadpanned. Fili looked away and swiftly began to make his way to the door. "I think I just heard Thorin call my name. If you will excu….." Tauriel grabbed him on his way past her, yanking him back as he tried to escape, causing a very undignified yelp to leave the princes mouth.

"Oh no. You did something. What. Did. You. Do. Fili?" Fili glared at nobody in particular, refusing to answer. "I believe 'e tried to sabotage breakfast." Bombur helpfully responded. Tauriel rubbed her temples. Right. That stupid bet. Not even a day and Fili was already playing dirty. She glared at her brother "I believe you owe him ten gold coins then maybe you should go clean up before Thorin sees you. He will not be happy to hear you had a hand in wasting provision we are already low on." Fili sulked a little before pulling out a small coin back and shoving the entire contents in Naurfaer's hand before stomping from the room. Stupid Durin temper tantrum.

"Anyone want to tell me why my brother looks like he bathed in oats?" Naurfaer and Bombur both laughed and Tauriel rolled her eyes. She was not in the greatest of moods today and she was hungry. Plopping down on the bench and resting her chin on her palm, she stared forward, but answered Kili. "He was trying to win his bet. You can ask him for the details." As an afterthought she tilted her head to look up at her husband who was taller than her at the moment, since she was sitting. She pointed a threatening finger at him "If I hear you join into this ridiculous scheme of his to play unfairly, you will be spending the nights by yourself." Kili's eyes widened in horror. He audibly gulped and nodded in clear understanding. "As you wish, Amralime."

A steaming bowl was placed before her and she followed the hand up to Bombur's round, smiling face. "The little one keepen ya on edge, ya? Meh wife can get a bit touchy when she's with child in the mornin, at leas' until she eats. 'Ere ya go lass. Eat up. Warm an' fresh." Tauriel's cheeks warmed with slight embarrassment that her temper and mood was so transparent but accepted the bowl gratefully. Kili easing into the spot beside her and leaned over to place a warm kiss on her still red cheek as Tauriel tucked into her breakfast with enough gusto to make Fili proud. She later lamented on how carrying a dwarf was turning her into one at the dinner table causing Kili to burst out laughing at her sour face.

One by one, the other dwarves entered the kitchen filling the air with the usual morning chatter, even Bilbo added to the conversation. He seemed to have opened up since Tauriel's small absence and was laughing with Kili over a story involving introducing themselves to the mighty Beorn. Thorin was among the last to enter, giving Tauriel a smile and patting Kili on the back as he sat an Tauriel's other side. It was not long after a clean Fili joined the dining clan as the last piece of their company. His usual smile plastered on his face as if a mini war was not currently going on. Though, Tauriel noted, he did narrow his eyes at Naurfaer who was seated beside Dwalin, both deep into conversation to Fili's great annoyance.

Tauriel watched as Fili nudged Nori beside him and asked what was going on with the Naurfaer and Dwalin…Dwalin who was well known to hate elves. Evidently, according to Nori, Naurfaer had been up all evening searching for a second washroom. Dwalin had been unable to locate one the day before as he was called to help Thorin with more pressing matters. Having heard this, Naurfaer made it his personal task to make up for the other morning. He not only found a second washroom a few hours into the night, he also spent the remainder of the early morning cleaning it out and making it usable. To Tauriel's surprise, this seemed to win over the normally surly dwarrow who was nodding in agreement with something the elf had said. Looks like Fili lost another bag of coin.

Once everyone had eaten Thorin handed out assignments for the day. Some on guard duty, some on clean-up, a few to look for usable supplies, and a team to scout the mountain and assess damage. Each was to report to Thorin and Balin during the evening meal. Tauriel, Kili, Fili, and Thorin were going to be in the make-shift conference room to prepare to meet Bard who should be at the mountain within the hour. Balin had brought a small box he found and loaded it with parchment paper and ink and passed it to Tauriel who agreed to take notes of the meeting. Balin had excused himself saying he would rather his energy be spent to begin the cleanup of the records room. Thorin allowing him to be dismissed, his nephews and Tauriel will be there so he was not worried.

Tauriel sat beside Thorin, readying herself for a long day of notes while Fili and Kili went to the massive gates of Erebor to greet the dragon slayer. Tauriel was laying out some parchment when Thorin stilled her hand. "Are you feeling up for this? It may be a long meeting. Fili mentioned you were a little out of sorts yesterday. Had I known you would not be in that cart beside Kili, I would have insisted you remain here." Tauriel sighed. Of course Fili would rat her out. At least it was to Thorin and not to Kili. Her husband, at the moment, seemed blessingly ignorant of her little dizzy spell yesterday. "I am well enough. I hardly believe sitting here taking notes and helping with negotiations will be physically taxing." Thorin watched her carefully before nodding and pulling his hand away.

"Tauriel. What is your measure of this man. Can we trust him?" Tauriel stopped her preparations and nodded at Thorin. "I believe him to be an honorable man. He only wishes to do what is best for his people and his family." Thorin studied her for a moment but said no more, as the door opened revealing Fili showing Bard into the room, Kili slightly limping behind them. Tauriel eyed her husband subtly, she still worried for his leg despite him constantly waiving off her concerns. She would have to tell him if she was supposed to listen to his concerns for her, then he had to listen to hers as well. She internally smirked at how well that would go over.

Thorin stood in welcome as Bard came to stand in front of the large stone table, Tauriel rising as well as it was what she would have been expected to do in such an event when she was captain of the guard. "Welcome, Bard of Dale, to Erebor. Please, be seated." There was a scraping of seats as the six present in the room all sat down.

"I have heard many stories of this mountain, despite the damage, I must say it is all I have heard an more. Dale too, in all its ruins has a great deal of promise, though it will take work." Thorin nodded in agreement. It was a massive understatement that both cities had work to do if they were going to survive the frigid winter weathers no doubt knocking on their gates. "I agree." Thorin sat back pulling a piece of parchment and laying it before him. He, Dwalin, and Balin had spent much of the previous day working on numbers to present to the representative of Dale.

"I understand we are here to speak of the gold promised. Which we will. My nephews, niece, and I agree that relations with the city of Dale would be to our mutual benefit. We are both in need of provisions and repairs. Gold can only go so far when no traders are entering and leaving the cities." Bard nodded in agreement, leaning forward to rest his arms on the stone table. "What do you propose?"

"We have a clan not a few days ride from here, my cousin Dain is the Lord of the city. I can send a raven to him for food, supplies, and help. We need to secure the area as soon as possible, so I am in want of requesting a guard as well." Dain. Tauriel had heard many, many stories of Dain and she had mixed feelings over the lord of the Iron Hills. She did not want to admit it to her family, but now that their mountain was secure, she was beginning to feel, anxious, over the inhabitation of the mountain. Sure, eventually most from her beloved Ered Luin will be here to fill many of Erebor's halls, but Thorin had mentioned many throughout the other clans will also want to move to the mountain. All dwarrows were welcome. The problem was, not all dwarrows knew their prince had married an elf. An elf who was expecting the next heir.

"Amralime, are you alright?" Tauriel looked over to Kili who was giving her a concerned look and she nodded quickly, going back to her notes on Thorin's plans and Bard's ideas. Thankfully, Kili let his concerns go, but reached under the table to lace their fingers together as she focused her attention on the matters in the present.

Thorin had offered anyone he could spare to help Bard and the people in Dale make enough repairs to make the city winter safe. Bard had said there were so few of them, many were able to find shelter out of the cold, but they lacked the ability to supply heat which Kili and Fili both pitched in ideas to repair the chimneys and fireplaces.

Food was the biggest concern since neither had sources to access for renewable substances. Tauriel suggested hunting teams as the game around was plentiful enough to feed both cities. Thorin agreed and put Kili and Tauriel in charge of mapping out game trails and putting teams together to hunt. Bard did mention the elven king, but silenced his thoughts when they were met with cool stares. "I know Esgaroth had previous experience dealing the Mirkwood, but at this time, we seem to be in opposition. I do not see that great elven king stepping down to help the likes of us anytime soon." Thorin growled. Tauriel gave a sideways glance at her uncle. He almost sounded as if he had considered it at one point.

Tauriel would be lying if she was not concerned in living so close to the elven realm she fled from. She did not doubt Thranduil would have executed her. He certainly was angry enough, especially after she ran. What would he do once he found out she not only dwelt in Erebor, but was the wife of one of it's princes? Would he still try and execute her? Fear welled inside her heart. She lifted hers and Kili's joined hands and rested them on where their child was growing. Their son. Kili leaned further into her at the action, as if he sensed she needed his support. Tauriel realized she was becoming frighteningly co-dependent on her other half. Not just him though, Fili, Thorin, and Dis as well. She used to be so independent. She never needed anyone or anything. Now, she could not fathom living a day without the love and support of her little family. Her growing little family.

Releasing a silent breath, she realized she had nothing to be concerned about where the elven king was involved. With her family by her side, she will endure whatever Thranduil would throw at her. Pushing all her thoughts and concerns aside, she forced herself to focus on the proceedings. It took several hours, but Thorin and Bard finally came to several agreements. Bard apparently felt uncomfortable with his new title as leader, but since none other has been accepted in the position by his people, he took up the mantle. He said it was only temporary as he insisted there be a fair election once everyone was settled in. Tauriel doubted the results would be any other than Bard ending as master of the city. Kili whispering the same sentiments to her from beside her.

Thorin had agreed to send bard with a cart which Fili and Kili would help fill and deliver full of water, some food Bombur put together, more blankets, and a portion of the gold they were promised. The rest would be sent over once a safe place to store and stockpile the payment was established. Thorin stood, Tauriel following suit though she cringed at the stiffness in her muscles having had sat so long. Kili giving her a worried look which she waived off as they joined Thorin and Fili who had invited Bard to a small tour of the accessible portions of Erebor. Thorin enjoyed showing off his mountain, though he cringed when Bard gaped at the golden floored great hall. It would take a while before Thorin completely forgave himself for all he had done while under the influence of the Arkenstone. He would do what he could to make amends to all parties who suffered from his failure.

"I cannot say that it is not strange to see an elf so at home among dwarves." Tauriel looked at Bard, they were headed back up to the main gate where her, Thorin, and Bard were to meet Fili and Kili who should have the cart prepared and ready to go. They would be gone the remainder of the day, the longest she had been separated from either of them since her return to Lake Town. She stamped down the anxiousness she felt and smiled at Bard. "They are my family. How could I not feel at home?" Bard gave her a bewildered look. She was certainly not like any of the elves he had met before.

"Forgive me for prying and I mean no offence, but, just how does an elf become family with a race who is known to despise them?" Tauriel looked over to Kili who was speaking to Thorin, Thorin agreeing to whatever he was saying as he looked from the young prince to the parchment in his hands. Tauriel could not stop the smile spreading across her lips as she watched the handsome young prince she was bound to in this life and the next. "Matters of the heart cannot often be controlled, Bard, the dragon slayer. It seems despite our two races animosity towards each other, true and ardent love can still blossom between us." She turned her eyes from Kili and back to Bard "I cannot say exactly how this all came about. What I will say, is everyday I thank the Valar for each one of them accepting me with open hearts."

"Bard, are you ready?" The call from Fili stopping whatever Bard was going to respond with as the two cleared the distance to the group at the gate. "Of course." Bard answered Fili as he twisted to Thorin.

"I thank you, again, for keeping your word. I shall speak to some of the members of the city and see what we have. Perhaps we can set up some trade sooner rather than later." He extended his hand to the dwarven king who did not hesitate to clasp it.

"Farewell. We shall meet again soon. I will send word when I hear back from my cousin in the Iron Hills. We have yet a ways to go before either of our kingdoms are secure. Call on us should you need us." Thorin stepped back, standing beside Tauriel as Bard jumped up into the cart followed by Fili who sent Tauriel a farewell waive. Kili was more hesitant to climb in, and at the last minute, turned away from the cart and walked towards Tauriel and Thorin.

Tauriel knew that look. She knew it well. It was his 'I really don't want to leave you, but I have no choice' look all wide brown eyes and frown firm in place. This will not do. Tauriel preferred happy Kili. She slid her hand through his hair as he stepped before her. "Worry not, meleth nin, I am in no danger here. I will be well cared for." Kili released a breath he had not realized he was holding and pulled Tauriel close, enfolding her in his arms. Tauriel could feel his heart hammering in his chest. He was truly frightened to be parted from her. Oh, Kili. She tightened her hold on him as she turned her head enough to allow her lips to graze his jaw before she pulled back just enough to pull his lips to hers.

Thorin's loud sighs put a stop to their moment as Kili pulled back, looking apologetically at his uncle who was visibly trying to be understanding but was quickly losing patience. Tauriel gave him one last peck on the lips and went to step back but Kili pulled her close one more time, leaving a lingering kiss on her forehead before sending a look to his uncle Tauriel refused to interpret. Then, without a word, he released her and turned swiftly to the cart, only slightly struggling with his leg to climb in, then with just a tug of the reins, they left the mountain.

She looked down when she felt someone brush up against her side to see a smiling Bilbo. He must have just joined as Thorin was nodding a greeting to the hobbit having just seen him too. How did this halfling seem to pop up out of nowhere?

"Tauriel, I was hoping you would be free today to join me. I was going to help Bofur with searching for some more adequate chambers." He then leaned over quietly "Between you and me, the snoring, I fear, will cause an avalanche if it remains all in one section of the mountain." Tauriel let out a laugh as the hobbit smiled brightly at her. "Of course Bilbo, I would be happy too unless I am needed elsewhere." She looked to Thorin who had his arms folded and looking somewhat annoyed at the hobbit. That was odd, she thought he liked Bilbo.

"I was actually hoping Tauriel would not mind accompanying me. I have something I wish to show her. Tauriel?" The eleth turned to Bilbo apologetically. "I am sorry Bilbo, but I will need to decline. Perhaps later or tomorrow." Bilbo looked for a moment as if he did not know what to do but snapped out of it stuttering "Oh. Yes. Of course. He is the king…and, and your uncle." He added in after a moment. "Priorities and all that." Tauriel just nodded looking thoughtfully at Bilbo. He seemed nervous but she could not pinpoint why. After another awkward moment Bilbo cleared his throat, shuffled his feet and bowed. "I bid you a good day then." He backed away slowly before spinning on his large, bare, feet and slowly, very slowly, began to walk from the room.

Thorin sighed and shook his head before lifting his blue eyes to his niece. "Well, you ready?" Tauriel nodded. She could not help the excitement that bubbled through her. Her, Fili, and Kili had already explored much of the accessible portions of the mountain, but it only accounted for a small portion of the massive dwarven city. Erebor could easily fit Ered Luin ten times over. No wonder her smaller dwarrow home was bursting at the seam. She slipped her arm into Thorin's as he gave her a small smile and led her down several staircases.

It was only a few floors down when they ran into Bombur and bifur, Bifur excitedly pointing in a direction muttering something she was trying to make sense of. She thinks he said plant, yes that was definitely plant. Bombur watched his brother for a few minutes and went into translation. "We found one of the green rooms. Looks like with just a small amount o' cleanup, we can plan' some hearty harvests. Should 'ave potatoes in a few weeks' time." Thorin nodded. "Thank you Bombur. Good work."

Bombur shook his head "Don' be thankin me, it was Naurfaer who found it." Thorin looked surprised for a second before nodding. "Please pass on my gratitude. I will remember to thank him later." They did not linger, instead bid a quick goodbye and proceeded down another set of stairs and through a large passageway where they ran into Balin who was lugging several large crates and stacking them against the stone wall. This must be the records room. This is one area of the mountain Tauriel had yet to see.

"Ah. Thorin." Balin greeted, placing a crate down. It always surprised Tauriel how strong even the most elderly of dwarrows could be. "Oh, and Tauriel. I did not see ya there lass. How fair you this afternoon?" Tauriel gave the old, white bearded, dwarf a quick bow of the head "Very well. Thank you Balin. Do you need assistance?" Balin was about to answer when another voice filled the hallway "No. We got it." Tauriel looked to Naurfaer who was carrying several crates at once, a smile firm on his face as he stood holding the crates as if they weighed nothing. "Just set those there laddie."

"Balin, what are these?" Thorin asked, releasing Tauriel arms to step forward and inspect the contents of the large crates. Balin pulled a ruined scroll from the crate he stood closest too "I fear these are all the un-reparable and lost records we have found so far." Thorin shuffled through a few of the destroyed scrolls and tombs with a solemn look. "So many?" Tauriel asked. "I am afraid so lass. But fear not, there are plenty more which survived. I was even able to transfer some of the information from a few of the documents only partially destroyed." Thorin set the parchments back in the crate and sighed as he stepped back to his niece.

"Erebor's records were some of the most complete of our peoples, but for preservation measures, the most important ones were made in duplicate. Copies reside in few other halls for safe keeping." Tauriel placed a hand on Thorin's shoulder and smiled. Dwarrows. Always prepared.

"I am impressed by your peoples foresight. I have known many races who have lost delicate information for not having such a system. Many would do well to learn from you."

Thorin looked taken aback by the compliment but slowly, a smile spread across his gruff features and he allowed the pride for his people to envelope him. "That is quite the compliment coming from an elf." Naurfaer, who had just turned from setting the crates down only laughed good naturedly. Tauriel let out a small huff but knew Thorin was not being unkind or cruel, only jesting in his own way, so she allowed it with barely an eye roll. Realizing his possible mistake, he turned to Tauriel who just waived his apology off "It is fine. You do not need to apologize every time you make references to elves." Thorin just laughed out "I sometimes forget you are an elf, my niece." Even Naurfaer and Balin were chuckling. It was true, it was easy to forget Tauriel had not always been a part of their lives, she fit in so well.

Thorin turned back to Naurfaer "I have also been told I have you to thank for finding one of the green rooms. You have my gratitude." Naurfaer preened at the praise and went back to work helping Balin with a skip in his step. How he was as old as he claimed to be baffled Tauriel, especially when he acted younger than Kili most days. They stayed for another few minutes, Balin had a couple of questions for Thorin, but they soon were setting off deeper into the mountain.

It seemed as if no matter how deep they went, or how many staircases they descended, they kept running into members of the company. They ran into Bofur and Bilbo three times. Thorin was visibly growing more and more annoyed with each encounter but swallowed all his agitation and smiled at a large archway just ahead exclaiming "Here we are!" before grumbling "I did not expect it would take this long to reach." Tauriel squeezed his shoulder and followed the dwarven king to a massive, cavernous, portion of the mountain. Miraculously, this part of Erebor was untouched by dragon, but not by time. Thorin stood back watching Tauriel take in the room.

Empty stalls, stores, and work areas sat dark and silent almost like a tomb to those who labored and were lost. It was a haunting, yet magnificent sight to behold. "This was the great marketplace of Erebor. There are two other smaller ones throughout the mountain, but this was the main source of trading and selling for the inhabitants and traveling traders." Tauriel walked through the silent streets of the enclosed market city. She could almost imagine the sounds of merchants haggling, workers hammering, and inhabitants calling out their orders.

Thorin allowed her to walk a little ahead but as soon as she reached a point where she did not know which way to go, he guided her to the furthest portion of the market towards another massive archway. Tauriel gasped as they came across what appeared to be a large forge built into the wall of the market itself just off the doorway. Tauriel stopped to look at the forge, but Thorin pulled her through the archway where she looked mesmerized at another cavernous room seemingly dedicated to forging in itself. "I give you our main forge room." Tauriel could feel the heat from the bellows Thorin and the company had lit trying to destroy the dragon. Their heat not only helped forge their weapons, jewels, and materials, it was one of the main sources for hot water throughout Erebor.

It was a wonderous sight to behold. He guided her back out the archway and stood in front of the large forge on the other side of the door in the marketplace. He released her arm and ran his hand along the dusty forge bench before an echoing noise filled the air. Tauriel looked above to one of the several stories of merchant shops which seemed endless, to see a hobbit and hatted dwarf walking among the city on the upper levels. Thorin huffed out an annoyed sigh and leaned back against the countertop. "They do not trust me with you." Tauriel looked confused then looked back up at the duo several floors up. Bofur did look like he was just passing through, completely unaware of anything going on around him. She would have suspected nothing if the hobbit was not just picking up stones and looking interestingly at them as if they had a secret to share, though his eyes were clearly on Tauriel and Thorin. As soon as he caught her watching him though, he looked up, and around, placing the stone down and shuffling away. She shook her head at his obvious display of spying.

"I do see why they have such fears." Thorin looked down at his hands as he sat down hard on the bench opposite the counter. "They are afraid I will lose my mind again, and harm you or the babe." His words were so quiet she nearly did not hear them but raised her brows when she realized what he had said. She cocked her head to the side looking sympathetically at her uncle. She shook her head slowly before lowering herself to kneel before him. "I am not afraid, Thorin. Please do not think I have any fear when being alone with you. I trust you as I trust Kili and Fili." Thorin looked unconvinced "Tauriel, I nearly killed you." He pulled away from her and stood walking across the forge. "I saw the look Kili gave me. He does not trust me either." She was going to have to have a word with her husband, Tauriel thought to herself.

"Thorin. Do you feel any kind of inkling to harm me? Any clouding of the mind? Do you think me being in your presence alone is a danger to me our Kili and I's child?" She did not believe for even a moment her uncle would harm her in any way, she just needed him to see that as well. Thorin turned his blue eyes towards her and shook his head. "Of course I don't." Tauriel smiled and stepped towards him. "Then what is the problem? You were not yourself. You were under a curse uncle. A curse even the strongest of minds would succumb to. I have no doubts even my Kili would one day not be able to resist the darkness had that…thing…not been destroyed." Thorin allowed a soft smile to stretch across his lips. "Please Thorin. I trust you with my safety and this ones as well." She placed a hand to her still flat abdomen. "Kili and Fili will come around in time. They, like you, are fiercely overprotective. A family trait I am sure and one I love greatly. We all nearly lost each other. It will take time for those wounds to heal fully." Thorin pulled her in for a hug only pulling away to press his forehead to hers then stepped back.

They sat silent for a moment before Tauriel stood and looked around the forge, taking in the similarities and differences between this one and the one in Ered Luin. She noted the lack of water bucket and had to smile to herself at the memory of her rigging one up in their forge at home…Ered Luin, she corrected herself.

"This was my father's forge." Thorin reverently said as he walked around the anvil and workspace, hand tracing the many tools still laid scattered, frozen in time, as if waiting for their master to return at any moment. "He taught me all I know right here."

"What was he like?" Tauriel asked. Thorin remained silent for a moment, thinking about his father. "Stubborn, proud, but loved his people." Thorin finally answered. "He was devastated at the loss of the mountain. Almost more than anyone, as with it, his father's mind seemed lost as well." Thorin sat on the bench at the anvil, a mirror of the position she had seen countless times before. He indicated with his hand, inviting her to sit across from him on the small stool. She sat, leaning forward, keen on every word. "Before the dragon, and before the sickness took hold on Thror, Thrain was the epidemy of what an heir to the throne ought to be. He was loved and respected. He not only fulfilled his duties as crowned prince but ran this very forge each and every day. Forging was his first real love and he wanted to pass that down. I was the only of his children to truly take it up, Dis naturally was much too young, a child barely out of the cradle, and Frerin…he was much like Kili in many ways. He preferred to work with gems."

Tauriel knew of Thorin's younger brother, Frerin, only from a few conversations with Dis and Kili. He had been lost in battle at a young age after being exiled from Erebor, the family still felt the loss deeply. Tauriel wondered if their family was cursed, cursed to constantly fear the cold teeth of death gnawing at each one of them until they gave. She knows the strength her dwarven family has, to lose so many, a grandfather, father, brother, and husband after losing their home and birthright. Yet they endure, moving forward but never forgetting those who fell. She sat quietly as Thorin's eyes scanned the forge, ghosts of memories filling his mind in each corner.

"It must have been a wonder to behold, this forge in working order. It is almost as if I could see the life filling this hall, its heartbeat the sound of the hammer on that very anvil." Tauriel wondered out loud after Thorin had gone quiet, obviously thinking on all he has lost. Thorin hummed in agreement. "It was. Of course, the hammering was often accompanied by my father hastily calling out corrections. He was very patient, but stern. Taught that the forge was no place for jokes and games, it was a place of creation and honing. Honing of skills, the mind, and the body." Thorin chuckled, the sound coming out like a deep rumble in his chest. "He would have doted on Fili and Kili where he strictly pushed and refined me, though I am sure they alone would have pushed him into his own kind of madness." Tauriel joined him in his amusement. As much as she loved her husband and brother, they were fully pranksters at heart. That being said, both took their titles as princes and their royal responsibilities and duties seriously. They were in no way a discredit to their family or their legacy. It is simply who they are. Tauriel has no doubts in her mind Fili will one day make a wonderful king, filling the shoes Thorin will leave behind with honor, respect, and regality.

Happy to have her uncle back to himself, Tauriel watched and listened intently as Thorin spent the next several hours reminiscing of his time with his father in this very spot. It brought her back to all those days and hours in Ered Luin, her sitting at the sharpening stone as Thorin spoke of Erebor and his family while hammering away shaping, molding, and creating great pieces of work from materials of the earth. It made her a bit homesick for Ered Luin. This was her home now though, she argued with herself, she would need to learn to love this mountain as much as she loved the smaller one many miles away.

It was nearly nightfall when they made their way into the kitchen where Bomber served up something small but hearty, he was able put together. As they sat and ate Thorin mentioned the need to hunt sooner rather than later, Tauriel nodding in agreement. Bombur was good, but he could not pull food from nowhere, they needed to fill their stores and soon before harsher weather set in.

Tauriel had noted Bilbo and Bofur did not linger too long in the marketplace once they were seemingly caught, though she could hear them sticking close enough to get to her in a moment's notice if necessary. She looked to Thorin who was speaking to Balin and Naurfaer. Thorin was no threat in any way. She sighed and looked over at Bilbo and Bofur, the latter smiling at her before he went back to speaking with Bifur. Bilbo, however, looked a little bit embarrassed having known she had caught him earlier. How this hobbit got past a dragon when he cannot even look inconspicuous in any setting is a mystery, one she did not know she would ever unfold.

The eleth allowed a yawn to overtake her, hiding it behind her hand. It still bothered her, if only a little, that she seemed to be unable to stay up more than a day lately. Maybe she is just still healing. Pregnancy cannot possibly take that much out of you at this early stage…could it? Tauriel rested her head on her arms, contently listening to the mutterings of the dwarrow around her. If she closed her eyes, she could almost imagine she was sitting at Dis's table with company over for dinner. She smiled sleepily, already half in a dream, as she heard Dis's voice from beside her ask "Would you like some more butter cake dear?"

Kili was beyond exhausted as he pulled the harness and reins from Maryn and Galaddal before guiding them into the makeshift stalls at the gate of the mountain. "That was a day and a half" Kili nodded in agreement to Fili who was throwing a block under the wheel of the cart to keep it in place. Kili turned to his brother once the horses were tended. "Do you think there is still food?" He asked hopefully. Fili shrugged and the two made their way towards the serving area.

They met Bilbo just as they were about to walk into the smaller kitchen, both smiling and greeting the hobbit who shushed them immediately both giving the halfling an odd look. "Tauriel is asleep. Nobody wanted to move her since this is where everyone was gathered. We thought it best to let her rest." Kili stepped around Bilbo and quietly entered the kitchen, sensing his brother close behind. He smiled at the scene before him. Tauriel was fast indeed asleep, her head resting on her arms and what looked like Thorin's long, fur lined, vest coat draped over her.

"She fell asleep nearly an hour ago. Thought it best to just let her be." Kili nodded in understanding and gratitude to his uncle, who had rose and walked to greet them. "How did everything go in Dale." Kili tore his eyes off his sleeping elf and answered Thorin. "Well. We made all the deliveries. It appears although there were many losses, it was much less then they had originally thought. Over three quarters of the city survived the dragon. Our plan had helped, I just wished it could have helped more." Thorin placed a hand on Kili's shoulder.

"You did well, you saved many who would not have made it had you not made the plans you did. Do not dwell on losses you cannot control, either of you." He looked to Fili who gave a curt nod. Kili looked back to Tauriel. "I should take her to our room. She would be more comfortable in a bed." Thorin hummed in agreement.

"Eat first, Kili. There is food for both of you." Just as he finished, Bombur brought two steaming bowls to the princes who quietly thanked him and they both stepped to the far corner with Thorin to give him a more detailed report of what happened as they ate, Fili filling him in on how the people seem to be unified in making Bard the lord of the city, despite Bard insisting on a fair election with several in the running. His aim never was to usurp power, rather he sought only to help his people. "Putting one's people first over materials is what defines a good leader. His people would do well to elect him. He is a good man." Fili nodded in agreement with his uncle. Looks like Erebor and Dale were on their way to making a good and firm alliance, despite the hardships they face.

Kili stretched as a yawn overtook him. "Kili, go get some rest. I will discuss plans for tomorrow with you in the morning." Kili nodded and rose, moving to walk to his sleeping wife. "Do you need help with her?" Kili shook his head at his still seated brother. "She is light. I will be fine." Fili looked at his brother carefully. He knew his leg was bothering him, but he also knew he was in no mortal danger in caring the very light elf, so he stayed seated and joined back into conversation with Thorin who, besides Bombur and Bofur both smoking pipes in another corner, was the only one in the room.

Quietly stepping up to Tauriel, Kili leaned down and scooped his beloved up, Thorin's coat and all, into his arms. Her head lolling onto his shoulder as she let out a small protest, but otherwise remained blissfully asleep. Kili straightened, making sure his leg was secure and would hold his and her weight, and made for the door, leaving the room and its light behind him.

It took a few minutes and several flights of stairs, before Kili was opening the double doors to their temporary quarters. Tauriel had not woken once, which was slightly unusual as she was typically a light sleeper. He worried about her for a moment but she looked fine, besides being asleep, so he would let his concerns slide for the night and decided he would check on her in the morning. "Kili?" Kili had just placed her on the bed when her hand grabbed at his vest, pulling him down to her.

"Shhh, Amralime. Go back to sleep. I will join you in a moment." Tauriel did not answer nor did she release his vest so Kili gently pulled her hand free and placed a soft kiss on her palm, laying her hand beside her on the bed. He left the room for a moment and took advantage of the free washroom, cleaning himself as well as checking his wound. It was looking better and feeling better every day. Although, it still ached and burned whenever he exerted himself which Oin and Tauriel both had said will reduce and eventually disappear over time. Tauriel did warn, however, that he may never fully be rid of slight aggravations from the wound, though they be minor. He certainly hoped not, only time will tell he supposed.

He was about to make his way into the shared room when a strange sound filled the halls. Kili turned, knowing Tauriel would be fine for a few minutes on her own, and followed the sound down a few staircases, and onto a balcony where Fili was rigging what looked like "Fi…is that a leg snare?" Fili only nodded as he tested his knots and the strength of the rope.

"I have already lost three bags of gold. Who knew Dwalin would take a liking to an elf so quickly?! Add that to Bombur and Oin who was ecstatic to have a spot to plant some herb plants and I am only eight away from losing a chance at that blade. Balin is even warming up to him, I know he too will be team Naurfaer sooner rather than later." He stopped what he was doing looking pleadingly at Kili. "Ki. My favorite brother. I may need your help." Kili instantly lifted his hands backing a step away.

"Fi, you know I would do anything for you. Truly. But my hands are tied in this particular matter." Fili narrowed his eyes at his brother. "Tauriel threatened you didn't she." Kili sighing dramatically, "Yup. Thoroughly."

Fili studied his brother before going back to his knots. "So, what exactly is this Fi?"

"Naurfaer keeps going out at night and doing odd end tasks around the mountain. He has been frequenting this area recently, so I just plan on…slowing him down a bit." Kili rolled his eyes. "Isn't he helping Thorin and really all of us with clearing things out and finding habitable areas?" Fili nodded as he secured a line and pulled a darker thread across the two pillars which would act as the tripping wire.

"I have no problem with that, I encourage it even. I appreciate his efforts as much as any." He paused looking at Kili "Do not tell him that." Kili rolled his eyes and studied his brother who had turned back to his task. "I just need him to hold off for a few more days. Then he can spend all hours of the evening, clearing rooms and halls to his content." Kili folded his arms and stared at his brother who was readjusting the snare.

"Fili. Do you remember the night before my wedding when you said I was doing something…what was it…immature and reckless? This is dangerously bordering on that." Fili glared at Kili "What I remember Ki, is me agreeing to your stupid plan to nick a hostile animal and place in a dam's room, this is hardly the same." Kili sighed as Fili began ticking off schemes Kili himself had initiated "Shall we also talk about the golden orb…yes I knew about that, the time you stole Gorraan's wooden leg, when you infused Thorin's soap with poison ivy to get out of that banquet, the time you put indigo coloring into Balin's beard oil dying his white whiskers blue for weeks, the countless days you skived off from old Gilhor's work station to take Maryn out. OH, and let us not forget when you stole Thorin's horse before you had Maryn and tried to join a hunting party nearly getting yourself killed when Gloin thought you were wild game and almost shot you with an arrow" Fili folded his arms and stared hard at Kili who looked only mildly taken aback.

"I will have you know I was barely 20 when I stole that horse. Besides, I am a changed dwarrow. I have a wife and child on the way. I am in the clean now." Fili lifted an eyebrow. "Kili, you swiped some of Ori's yarn and tied Alfred's boats together with Tilda causing the foul creature to fall face first into a pile of horse manure…this afternoon." Kili sniffed indignantly. "He deserved it." Fili only hummed and turned on his heals to make a few adjustments. That blade will be his.

"Alright. Brother of mine. Good luck. I am going to lay beside my wife and get some sleep. Don't stay up too long." Fili just waived him off and Kili gave one last amused look at the blond prince who would one day be king under this very mountain, throw a rope snare over the banister to catch an elf. Fili was usually the more mature of the two, but it seems when a blade is at stake, the usually well put together Fili channeled Kili's mischievous nature. Usually, it was he who came up with the plan and Fili making sure Kili did not die while executing it. He shook his head and walked back to the room where Tauriel still lay asleep, undisturbed as he shut the door quietly. Kili placed his outer layers on one of the chairs, slipped his boots off, and climbed in beside his wife.

As if sensing his presence, Tauriel instantly twisted and wrapped herself around Kili, burrowing her head into his shoulder as she sighed contently. Kili placed a kiss on the crown of her head, pulled her close and allowed himself to drift into a deep sleep.

Tauriel smiled and closed her eyes, enjoying the crisp wind currently blowing her long red tresses about her. She was standing beside Kili and Nori on the overhang of the gate, her bow at her back as they stood watch in their circulation of guard duty. They had had a very amusing morning about a week ago, having been woken by a roar and some rather choice Khuzdul words from a very, very livid Gloin who had had the misfortune to come across Fili's trap. Having known the two princes their entire lives, it was no surprise the red-haired older dwarf had pointed at the two younger ones demanding retribution. Kili immediately claimed innocence though he was having a difficult time holding in a laugh.

"Is this about that stupid bet again Fili?" Fili narrowed his eyes at Tauriel but said nothing, folding his arms and stubbornly refusing to answer. "Wha' bet is tha'?" Gloin all but growled, listening as Tauriel told him of the little wager between Naurfaer and Fili. Naurfaer had seemingly appeared out of nowhere, looking from the still hanging, slightly swinging, dwarrow to the small company of Bilbo, Tauriel, Kili, and Fili below him. Somehow, to Fili's great luck, Thorin had not heard the yell having been deeper in the mountain with Balin. He apparently had woken much earlier to begin his day and attempt to get a firm grip on the never-ending list of things to do to get this mountain ready for settlement. Had Thorin been here, Fili would most like be in much, much more trouble.

Bilbo just shook his head, he would never understand dwarves. Naurfaer looked at the snare then back to Fili "Really. A snare? I think you and I both know you could do much better than that." Fili huffed out in annoyance at the elf.

"Can someone get me down? I can' no feel meh legs." Fili stepped up and released the hold on the rope, causing Gloin to fall hard to the ground with a startled yelp. "OI! Did ya have to do it like tha'?" He glared at the prince, then stomped right up to Naurfaer and in a loud voice declared "I am glad yeh are 'ere." He then turned to a wide-eyed Fili who was opening and closing his mouth "I believe yeh owe him some gold now boy." He shook himself off, shot another glare towards Fili, and brushed past them without another word.

Despite not being there, it seemed Fili's little prank got back to Thorin who had spent a good part of the morning yelling at Fili for doing something so "childish" when he was a crowned prince and ordered him to help Naurfaer for the remainder of the day. If he had a problem with the other elf, he could work it out as they cleaned out and prepped the green room for planting together though, it did not end there. It seemed Thorin had a lesson for Fili to learn, as over the next week, he alone was assigned to whatever task Naurfaer had that day.

To Fili's greatest horror, one by one, the dwarves of the company of Thorin Oakenshield accepted the second elf, causing Fili to reluctantly hand over one bag of gold after the other. The elf had easily won Ori over once the younger dwarrow had realized Naurfaer could knit and the two spent a good two hours discussing techniques and styles. Dori and him bonded over tea, Nori just thought Naurfaer was amusing to have around, especially in spite of Fili. Fili was not surprised Balin had accepted him as Naurfaer was seemingly older than dirt which meant he had a wealth of knowledge and Balin, being a keeper of records, considered Naurfaer as interesting as his old, beloved, scrolls. He surely would not lose with Bifur, who could not even communicate in common tongue to the elf, but the two were seen laughing as Naurfaer picked up some of the sign language the axe headed dwarf often used. Fili even sent Kili a betrayed glare as, Kili shrugging apologetically, said nothing was wrong with Naurfaer and he thought the elf seemed like a good fit to the group. Fili, however, was secure in the knowledge that no matter who agreed the elf was an accepted fixture in Erebor, Thorin would never openly admit it to himself let alone out loud.

Fili was proven wrong, one last time, on the final morning of the bet. All he had to do is get through today, and that blade would be his. His musings were interrupted by his current nemesis. Naurfaer it seemed had bounced into the kitchen where thirteen, still waking, dwarves, one hobbit, and a red headed she-elf were shoveling breakfast into their mouths so they could get on with another day of work. All eyes turned to the beaming Naurfaer who said he had something to show them and quickly left the room. Everyone looked around at each other before Naurfaer leaned back in "Well, are you coming?" A shuffle of benches and feet were their only answer as they all followed the practically skipping elf through several halls, past the gate, through the golden floored throne room and up another flight of stairs.

The entire way, Thorin was gaping at the elf as he looked back at the company and pushed one of the large, floor to ceiling, archway double doors. "Thorin, where are we?" Tauriel asked as she looked through the dark hall. "By my beard laddie. How did yeh do it?" Tauriel was looking from Balin to Thorin then back to Naurfaer who was just shrugging.

"Tauriel, this is the royal wing. It was blocked on both sides by fallen debris, completely inaccessible. I do not know how we are possibly even here." They piled through the door one after the other looking all around them as they stepped in. It appeared the opposite side of the door was not as bad as Thorin had anticipated. He thought the dragon had destroyed the infrastructure of this side of the quarters, however, it seemed just a beam had fallen entombing everything past the doors themselves.

"I cleared the rubble and found these doors. Thought they were locked so I went around the side of the mountain, climbed through a window, and found it was only a beam of wood. Really, it was not a complicated task, just a bit of heavy lifting." The entire company was walking around the quarters in awe. It was in desperate need of cleaning, but only mild repairs would be necessary for it to be habitable. "Well done Naurfaer, without you here, I think this would have taken much longer. I am glad you are with us." The elf turned a mischievous smile to the golden-haired prince and extended his hand, quietly whispering into Fili's ear. "You heard what he said. That would be thirteen."

Fili stared open mouthed at the elf, then at Thorin who was speaking to Balin as Kili and Tauriel walked around the main quarters, opening doors carefully. Pulling out the final bag of coins, Fili grumbled and passed it to the smug elf before he joined his family and looked around the massive sitting chamber. He listened as Thorin addressed the group.

"There are six varying chambers through that archway and down the hall. Each has a study, their own sitting room, and washroom in addition to varying bedroom numbers. We can relocate for the present time." They spent the day preparing the large chamber which really was not far from their previous habitation, which was just past the golden hall and main gate. They would keep the kitchen as is since there were so few of them.

Tauriel followed Kili down the hallway, peeking in the several double doors as they went. For the most part, each one seemed the same. "Tauriel, Kili. A word." The duo shut one of the doors they were just looking in and turned as Thorin approached them. "I want you two to take the chamber at the end of the hall on the right. It has the most rooms, having four." The two looked surprised at Thorin.

"Four? Uncle, I appreciate it, but I think a smaller chamber will do for now. We do not need that much space." Tauriel adding in "Surely, the others would need the space more than we?" However, Thorin disagreed.

"Fili and I will take up two of the rooms at present until we get more help here to open the remaining living areas of the mountain. Dain has sent word, he will be arriving in the few days, three at the most, so we will be needing space for the expected numbers coming with." He looked down the hallway, then back at Kili and Tauriel. "I want you to feel like this is your home. A sense of permanency, especially as the mountain fills. Please. Take it." Tauriel only hesitated a moment before engulfing Thorin in a hug, thanking him as she pulled back. Kili placed his forehead to his uncles in his own way of appreciation and gratitude. The pair then looked at each other before running down the hallway to see their new quarters, Thorin chuckling at their retreating forms.

Fili sat heavily on one of the cushioned chairs, triggering a thick cloud of dust and debris to fill the air causing him to cough as he waived his hand trying to clear his breathing space. He had lost the bet and he was not annoyed. Not annoyed one bit. He folded his arms, the picture of petulance as he sat staring at the wall. "If I may have a bit of your time, I have something to show you." That was the last voice Fili wanted to hear. He did not even turn to Naurfaer as he grumbled out "Whatever it is, you can show another. I am happy right here."

Naurfaer cocked an eyebrow at him. "I think this is something you would very much like to see." Fili sighed and rolled his eyes skyward. Mahal, this elf was the bane of his existence. "I very much doubt it but lead on." He allowed Naurfaer to lead him out of the royal wing, past the throne, and down a set of curving stairs which ended at a hefty looking metal door. Fili hated how his curiosity had him leaning forward to finger the door. "Go ahead." Naurfaer invited, standing back to let the prince open the door, which he did, slowly.

Great forges of the maker, what he saw was the singular most beautiful sight he had ever beheld. Tears fell from his eyes and a sob escaped his mouth as he turned and flung his arms tightly around the startled elf, who had not been expecting that reaction. What Naurfaer had found, was the armory. Knives, swords, axes, even bows lined the walls on stands and in shelves of all varying sizes and shapes. There was even a section with warhammers from a tiny handheld to a massive great-hammer. Through another open archway, Fili could see a room filled with all kinds of armer and chainmail. This is exactly what they needed.

Fili slipped his hand into his pocket and placed the contents in the surprised elfs hand. Naurfaer looked at the ten gold pieces Fili had given him and looked back at the blond prince. Fili nodded at him through watery eyes "I am glad you are here." And hugged the elf one last time. Fili then ripped himself from a chuckling Naurfaer and launched forward with gusto grabbing everything he could see and touch.

Fili filled his pockets with knives, feeling more like himself, before he ran up to the royal chamber and informed everyone what Naurfaer had found. They piled into the armory, each grabbing blades and testing them out. Kili procured himself a bow, though, he lamented, it was not as good as the one he lost. Tauriel gave him a sympathetic look. Maybe she could speak to Legolas about getting their things back. She then looked at Fili and laughed at his excitement. He all but threw Tauriel her dagger back as he grabbed blade after blade, Kili too handing back her other blade as he took one for himself in addition to the bow he chose. Tauriel spent the next hour sharpening anything anyone handed her on the conveniently placed stone in the weapons room. They all felt much more secure in their safety now that they were properly armed.

This put Tauriel and Kili out with Nori on guard duty the following day where they currently stood in the cold, chilly mid-afternoon air watching the gate. It was a peaceful day and the sun was sporadically peeking through the trees. Tauriel leaned against the short wall of the long balcony and looked over at the city of Dale. She could just make out some of the human folk walking the streets. "See anything interesting Amralime?" She felt more than saw her other half walk to stand beside her. She was about to answer when a sound pierced the air and caused her heart to drop in her chest.

"What was that?" Nori stepped up to her other side, looking out at the town but Kili was looking at Tauriel, who was slowly going pale. It was a sound she knew and knew well. "Tauriel. What is it?" Staring straight ahead, though she could not see them advancing, she knew, without a doubt who and what was approaching. "Nori, go inform Thorin he needs to come up here and now." Nori hesitated for a minute but speedily exited the balcony to retrieve the king as fast as possible. Tauriel looked down to Kili. Her next words chilling his core. "Thranduil is coming."

Authors Note Part Two: DUN DUN DUNNNNNNN Thranduil! Lol. Just a few things. One, I know a LOT of people put Fili and Sigrid together, but I never really saw it, so I am not doing it. To each their own in fandoms which is the beauty of fanfiction :). Someone asked me what a sennight is and it is an old word for a week, like fortnight is two weeks. Archaic words but still words, don't believe me check google, google knows allllllllllllllll. I have said it before but any Khuzdul I use is straight from the amazing Dwarrow Scholar, not based on what other people have written. He literally took all the Khuzdul from Tolkien's books AND all of Peter Jacksons movies and created Neo-Khuzdul, a complete language. He has youtube video lessons, dictionaries, phraseology, and literally everything you need to learn the language. It is so freaking cool. I did have the apostrophe in the wrong place which is my stupid computer constantly auto correcting it when I copy and paste it in, but my feelings are, once it is part of the story…it remains part of the story. Although I have relaxed the dwarrow/dwarf thing it was getting annoying even for me :D :D :D. I am going to try and get the last few chapters to you sooner rather than later so stay tuned. Thank you for sticking with me on this amazing journey. Love you guys! :D