Chapter 54

Year of Firsts - Impulse

Day 5 (post-wedding)

000

Reconstruction of the East & West wings to get the mountain cleaned up and rooms organized ended up taking precedence when raven activity increased in the guard-chamber on the hill, trading messages between Erebor and the caravans en route. Early spring would mark the arrival of Lady Dís and many other dwarves from the Blue Mountains. Dain's return to the Iron Hills was temporary, for his absence would be short-lived another week until their scheduled meeting with Bard the Dragon Slayer, newly appointed King of Dale, in a few days' time.

Thorin made good on his word - sending a small group of dwarves to aid with wall fortifications, fixing collapsed buildings, and providing more gold for trade to Dale to keep supplies moving up the river bank. Something which made Lord Balin and Fíli quite happy. The dwarves and men set up patrols along the roadways between the mountain and city. If one ventured more than two miles beyond, trouble loomed in the shadows of the forests' edge. Having the dwarves take watch of the repopulated city of Men allowed Bard to send more archers to cover the River Running, providing much needed protection for travelers from the villages lining the frozen waters.

Thorin massaged his temple, tossing the parchment onto the desk. Therl had been hard at work drafting a mock treaty that would unite the Lonely Mountain, the Iron Hills, and Dale as a central hub of the North. Messengers from the other two realms worked tirelessly with the scribe to bring forth a peaceful unison, one that would soon be discussed, altered, and agreed upon by week's end. Thorin stared at the mind-numbing disarray before him. His desk was littered with requests, scrolls of years past, maps, and books filled with scribbling by the hand of his grandfather when he had ruled. He found it difficult to focus being holed up in the stuffy room all day. While light from midday provided adequate lighting from carved windows above, the room could do with a deep clean. The study itself was rather cozy with a large hearth centered in the wall next to him, shelves lined with books and proper seating for guests of state next to the big oak desk he resided by.

It was a place of comfort to the king, one filled with memory and responsibility. Save for being holed up in the place all morning, he was content with the daily grinds of a Lord again, something he dearly missed from his halls back in Ered Luin.

Day in and day out, Thorin was either found in his study, with the council, or sparring with Dwalin when he shouldn't. Truthfully, training was the only tension release he got, something physical to ease his frustrations from a long day of negotiations, talk, and endless sitting. Thorin Oakenshield was a warrior, it was in his blood to fight, to be on his feet with sword in hand. He would not grow lax in homely comforts when their enemies were still pacing at the edge of their borders. Victory was always short-lived. More foes would show themselves in due time, and they would be prepared for whatever may follow.

Head swimming and eyes exhausted from reading and writing, Thorin heaved a long sigh, allowing himself a moment of peace as he rested his brow in a hand while continuing to nurture his rising headache. A knock on the door alerted him to the scuffing of boots and metal hinges creaking open. He looked up to see who would disturb him from his solitude.

"There you are." Éla peeked through the wooden door, smiling in delight upon her search coming to an end. Thorin barely allowed himself a show of gratitude for the welcomed company. Éla paid no heed to the lack of enthusiasm thrown her way as she closed the door behind her and proceeded to place the basket she carried on the desk between them.

"I swung by the kitchens for something to eat. I was hungry and thought you might enjoy a short break." Her words sounded more like a question than a statement. Thorin dropped his hand to the chair. She paused when he didn't say anything.

"If you're busy I can leave, come back later?" She surveyed the mess of papers sprawled out then returned to the basket, lifting a bottle of wine from within and a mug, unscrewing the cork and pouring one for him. "I'll leave the food here for you so you won't be disturbed."

"No, stay."

Éla placed the mug down in front of him. "Are you sure?"

"I've looked upon these documents too long already." Thorin grabbed the mug, bringing it to his lips. There was a mischievous tone to his voice now, taking in her sight atop the rim of his glass. "Perhaps I'm due for a change of scenery."

Éla smiled warmly by the remark, watching him take a sip of the red liquid before bringing out some bread, cheese, pickled vegetables, and salted meat, quick foods for snacking. Seeing the array of choices had Thorin's mouth watering for he hadn't paid attention to his growing hunger until now. It was a kind gesture, one he took for granted lately as his wife seated herself across from him in one of the guest chairs, already breaking off chunks of bread and stuffing a fluffy piece in her mouth. He observed the jovial manner with keen interest, taking another swig and savoring the sweetly tart taste on his tongue. Setting the mug aside, he reached for a plate she prepared, putting aside the treaty and other important documents for later while they ate in silence.

Thorin couldn't help but study every inch of her sitting next to him. His mindful gaze settled on his handiwork still present in her hair, braids intact and beads still glistening under the delicate sway whenever her head tilted at the right angle to reflect light off the metal pieces. Now, if he could convince her to wear her headdress more often, the look would be perfect. The necklace he gifted went well with her current emerald dress though he preferred her in violet, a more regal colour befitting a queen and one which suited her far better with her dark hair and curved figure. His mind lingered on that note, suddenly thinking on their time in Esgaroth. She was thinner back then from prior travels. She looked better now, happier even.

Azure eyes followed the seams of her gown, the square neckline accentuating a fuller bust last he remembered. Her curves became more prominent the longer he dared to loom. The desk blocked anything below the waist, but he found himself pleased with her rounding figure. The change wasn't excessively obvious and yet Thorin never recalled ever taking time to truly gaze upon the woman he married. He could see her more clearly in daylight, and it hit him like stone that he never noticed the small glint in her dark eyes that day or the way she sat relaxed in his presence even if no words were shared. She was completely at ease since the night before and so he trailed back up to her face, loose hair fanned over shoulders and hiding soft skin from view. His next thought turned over a desire to reach for her hair and push it away from her neck for a clearer view of her form. He blinked away any further notion of the subject and returned to finishing his plate. He was getting distracted again.

Éla cleared everything from the desk once they finished a quick luncheon, returning the items into the basket so Thorin could resume his tasks for the afternoon. He set about lighting his pipe from a nearby candle as Éla returned everything to its rightful place. Taking a few puffs to get it lit, he conjured an idea as he continued to eye her above the rising fumes.

"What are your plans for the rest of the day?"

Éla straightened as she strung the basket in the crook of her arm. "Nothing aside from mending clothing. Why do you ask?"

"No reason." Thorin exhaled, a ring of tobacco smoke forming before it faded from his breath. "Would you care to do your tasks here while I work?"

She gave him a cautious but amused look by the recommendation. She couldn't quite tell if he was up to something. "Why?"

He shrugged, returning a small smile through the pipe in his mouth. "Indulge me by having something nice to look upon amidst this chaos?"

"Very well." She responded with a peculiar narrowed sight in jest. "Allow me to get some things and I will return shortly."

000

The brothers were nowhere to be found. The mountain was vast and with few people occupying the fortress city, one required a great deal of luck to find anyone at any given time. Notes were seldom left in areas of interest though the need for communication regarding one's whereabouts grew by the day.

Fíli had been dismissed from duties while his uncle mulled over contracts for the afternoon and so he sought to hide with his brother. The two barely spent time together beyond evening dinners, recounting their days to the other while making the best of late night gossip. Kíli's whereabouts were always predictable between hanging out with Nori in the counting room, hiding away in the library for a nap, or sneaking into the training grounds below level when no one was around. Fíli found his brother in the latter, a bow in hand firing arrow after arrow at a practice dummy filled with straw and covered with burlap.

As the older brother entered he observed the missed target, arrow veering off course past what would be a shoulder. Kíli cursed, frustrated by his poor aim and drew again. As Fíli approached, keen eyes noticed the slight shake on his hold. His aim wasn't steady. He watched his younger brother steady his breathing, holding it for a few seconds before firing again. The bow trembled in his grasp and the arrow only grazed the top edge of the dummy.

Frustrated even more, Kíli tossed the bow to the ground, dropping to his knees in the process as colorful language escaped between baited breath in Khuzdul. The sight filled Fíli with sadness and remorse that he couldn't do anything to aid his brother. Slowly, he approached, a hand reaching for Kíli's shoulder, alerting him of his presence.

Kíli's head drooped, hair blocking out his eyes as his back curled forward in a slouch.

"I don't understand..." He began, voice trembling with emotion. "Why can't I shoot?'

"You're still healing, brother. Give it time." Fíli squeezed his shoulder.

"But I have!"

"My arm won't stay still..." He grew reckless, kicking the bow and arrows away from him as he slumped to the ground like a child. Fíli felt bad seeing his brother like this. It worried him that he may never recover. Tears welled in the youngster's eyes, stricken down from grief by future's prospect. His days of archery were as good as dead. The blond knelt down, resting a hand on his brother's trembling shoulder.

"Don't lose hope, Kíli. As mother always said, time heals all wounds." He tilted his head closer to see Kíli's face streaming with tears as he desperately tried to hide it with a swipe on the back of his sleeve.

"What good am I if I can't fight? I don't want, I don't..." He choked between quiet sobs, allowing Fíli to bring him in for a hug.

"Don't say that." Fíli encouraged, trying his best not to succumb to the same sadness despite the clenched and tightening hold on his own heart by the sight of his brother's struggles. The two held onto each other like they once did as children, never letting go. "You will get through this. We both will."

"Thorin won't see it that way." Kíli's voice muffled behind fabric as his hold tightened. "If I lose this, I'll be cast aside. Worthless."

"He's our uncle, he would never do that to you."

Kíli shoved his brother away. "Easy for you to say as heir. Your future is secure."

"Kíli don't do this. You know I have trouble walking too." He approached his brother again, hands resting on either side of his shoulders. "If it wasn't for you, Éla would be heading back to the Blue Mountains by now too. Thorin wouldn't be happy, and by Durin, mother wouldn't be on her way home as we speak."

"All our training would be for nothing if I can't regain control." Kíli looked down at his hands, clenching them into fists, head dropping in defeat again. "I'll have nothing, be nothing."

Fíli shook his brother. "We're fighters! You will fight again!" He bent low, meeting the dark-haired prince under his bangs. The comical position brought a smile to Kíli's face, even if momentarily. "Thorin trained us. Have you not forgotten that we won a war and survived? A battle between five armies?! FIVE! Look at Thorin, he's just like us. Give yourself time to heal."

"And your leg?" Kíli looked up apologetically for his childish reaction, nodding towards the bind around the eldest's boot.

"Same as you." Fíli plopped to sit next to his brother, straightening his injured leg. "Truth is, I don't know if I'll be able to walk right again. Oin says I will, but I have to keep the stint on my ankle for a while yet. Broken bones and all."

"Does it still hurt?"

"Not as much." Fíli wrapped an arm around his brother's shoulder, a sign of encouragement. "We're alive, Kíli. All of us. We won the mountain and get to live this new life with family and friends. Each and every one of us. So when you feel down, you come to me. I will always be there for you."

"Thanks Fí." Kíli repeatedly clenched his fist in effort to make his arm stronger in his mind, internal conflicts jumping to their mother. He missed her dearly knowing she wasn't as far away as before. Her arrival would signal their family complete for their separation had dragged on long enough. "We're going to be in so much trouble when she arrives, aren't we?"

"Not if she doesn't kill Thorin first." They laughed hard at the thought of their uncle, the king, getting reprimanded by their mother. "Have you thought to ask Thorin to help with training?"

"I doubt he would, you would know his schedule better than me. There's no way he'd make time for it now that he's king. I wouldn't want him to think I can't solve this on my own."

"Kíli, he's our uncle. He won't say no to us. Not now."

"Have you forgotten about Falo? Curse that dwarf, I mean who does he think he is?!"

"Well, we did set off one too many pranks back home." Fíli failed to lighten the mood. His brother was growing reckless again, allowing emotion to sway judgement from on topic to the next.

Kíli's face contorted into forgotten anger. It never took much to cave into the rush of rage with one's stubborn honour on the line. "How is he still here? Thorin should've cast him out."

"Kíli."

"Even Balin puts up with their nonsense!"

"Kíli!" He shook his brother back down to Earth. "What is this really about?"

The younger threw his hands in the air. "I don't know? Everything? I can't shoot, I can't fight. I'm told to rest only to get bored. At least you get to sit in on boring diplomatic meetings and do something. I just, arg!" He looked at his older brother a second before dropping his gaze again in self pity. "I want to be useful. Do something, anything. I mean, why are we not fixing Ravenhill? Wasn't that the original raven outpost in the days of old? We could set up the old guard-chambers in the watchtower that overlook Dale."

As he continued rambling, Fíli stopped him as an idea struck.

"What?" Kíli exchanged quizzing stares, waiting for an answer.

"That's actually a really good idea."

Kíli gave him a pleading look of embarrassment. "What, Ravenhill? You said the council won't do anything until spring. Thorin won't go for it. Not now."

Fíli signaled his brother, waiting for the idea to strike. "Thorin can only approve a majority vote on tasks that fall in line with our current working conditions. I'm free tomorrow."

"You want to go up there and scout?" Kíli wasn't convinced, making a point to poke the other prince's leg with his own. "He won't allow us in our current conditions. Not unless we take an escort."

"Already have one." Fíli's cheeky grin widened as he watched the wheels turn in Kíli's head. "There are patrols between the mountain and Dale. All we need is an approval for the project from someone who would back it. Think brother, who could convince our uncle to allow us to venture out there and put our time to good use? To do something worth fixing while the rest focus on other jobs?"

Kíli's face brightened when realization struck. "Here I thought our days of fun were over."

As the two helped each other to their feet, Kíli gathered his weapons and they left the training grounds with a new goal to fulfill. Fíli began talking about ideas and protocol they would be required to gain in order to ask for approval and when he received no enthusiastic response, he caught sight of the mellow quietness of the young dwarf out the corner of his eye.

"There's something else, isn't there?" The blonde asked quietly.

"Hmm?" Kíli feigned innocence, pretending not to hear as he was absorbed with his own thoughts, hesitant to say what was on his mind. He'd been meaning to follow up with someone for weeks but refrained from doing so out of fear for any backlash it would surely cause.

"You're stalling."

"I know I should be grateful we're all alive but-"

"But?" They proceeded through the empty corridor, Kíli fidgeting with the leather strap wrapped around the bundle of weapons and bow.

"Éla. I feel bad eavesdropping when we were still in the tent."

"You were awake through all of that?!" Fíli didn't hold back his surprise. His knowledge was limited in remembering his brother regaining consciousness after the healers finished heir work. Their pace slowed when Kíli made a show of direct eye contact that made Fíli nervous. Kíli hadn't been taught to master the art of facial control when dealing with an array of emotion, so he let it all out.

"Did she really...was she? Why did she have to suffer too? Every time I look at her I think of mother, only to be reminded of their pain instead. Oin won't breathe a word about it either. I know it's not my business, but I can't help it. I don't want her to look at us with sadness anymore every time we're in a room together. It hurts too much."

Kíli was afraid to outright ask what had been on everyone's minds that fateful day. It seemed no one had truly forgotten the horrors of that battle's aftermath. He pointed an accused finger at his brother. "And don't say we're the distraction. I know you see it too. What was Gandalf doing with the Elvenking anyway?"

"Heh, so you heard that bit."

"Barely. Between being half alive and conscious, it was hard to tell anything apart."

"I'm not sure what I heard entirely. Something happened and she was injured badly. Oin believed her life was saved but at a great cost. Don't get hung up on it Kíli, nothing was certain."

"So we ignore it? Pretend nothing happened?" He wasn't convinced this method would work.

"Yes." Fíli confirmed, nudging his brother with a boot to keep some semblance of playfulness going. "It's not our place to interfere. Besides, they seem happier in recent days. Thorin's more approachable than ever and it scares me a bit."

"Really?" Kíli looked to his brother who stared ahead with no particular interest of their surroundings as they leaned against the wall.

"Mother might've been onto something all those years ago." Fíli spoke without cause, airing his thoughts from memory as he studied the golden glow of the stone walls. "All he needed was a wife."

"Think he'll go easier on us?" Kíli added in jest. His question returned a nod from his elder brother.

"Nah. Though, we may have more time together as a family. He won't take that request away from Éla, not after everything we've been through."

"She made a request?" Kíli turned back to him surprised.

"Not exactly. Remember that document Balin found?"

"What about it? You all said the council dropped their threats."

"That's right, but Balin took it to Thorin afterwards. Éla doesn't know this, but he mentioned something that I couldn't hear. Thorin nearly let her go."

"What?!" Kíli pushed himself back into a standing position, brows raised, evident in surprise.

"Love can be blind. Thorin wanted her to have a choice so she wouldn't feel trapped. It's also why she hasn't officially been declared Queen." Fíli went on to say, eyes downcast to his boot scuffing against the stone floor.

"But they're married. That doesn't make sense."

"No it doesn't but uncle mentioned something about needing time."

"If you're telling me this will end badly, I really don't want to hear it."

Fíli faintly laughed before tugging his brother's arm to continue onward down their path. "I don't think it will. It's all just observation."

The two fell silent. Kíli looked back on everything, pondering what may become of their future. Time had quickened in haste, not giving them a chance to accept the new changes as they came. The princes merely followed the grind, allowing fate to steer them towards their intended futures.

"Think we'll be lucky to see a little one by next year?"

The innocent question had Fíli turn on his heel in shock. "I wouldn't give your hopes up, brother. Thorin would have your head if you breathe a word of it to Éla. Mother might strip him before he even has the chance anyway."

"There's still time before she arrives." Ah yes, the mischievous smirk returned. It was a sight Fíli dearly missed as they swung arms around the other's shoulders happily.

"Don't let him hear you say that."

000

Éla sat in silence threading a needle through yarn, weaving the soft material together in tight loops. Something had her drawn to the effortless task, a serene repetitive motion which allowed the user to look elsewhere for a visual change every now and again. At the start, she wasn't sure what to make, so the weaves had no course aside from hands flicking with each stroke from a distant memory, pulling thick thread from the basket on the floor next to her feet as more was slowly added to the piece. Between the irrelevant task and doing proper work, a hidden force steered her towards the soft creamy oak-coloured yarn waiting to be fabricated into, well, something.

Occasionally, she would steal a glance at Thorin completely enthralled with his work, quill scratching on parchment adding to the low ambience of the room next to the crackling fire. The solitary afternoon remained undisturbed for the couple. As the strokes faded from paper, Éla looked up again to see him lean back in his chair, taking a few puffs from his pipe as he read over the document in hand.

She found him rather handsome while he was focused. Brow furrowed, narrowed eyes intent on its target, right down to the sharp edge of his nose hiding behind the obstruction in his hands. Metal chain-mail flickered from the fire in the hearth from each rise and fall of his chest as daylight faded under the setting sun. His hair darkened in shade alongside the study, chiseled features becoming more prominent and harsh under firelight. It certainly emphasized his appearance as a Lord, let alone a King sitting in a larger chair which paled hers in comparison.

Then an idea struck.

There were many forms one could perform to achieve varying results from distractions. Perhaps it was the very air they shared, or the evasive dance on the edge of temptation which overshadowed a drive for more. Éla yearned for something she couldn't quite put into words. They had agreed to take their union slow but that didn't stop the butterflies fluttering in the pit of her stomach when stolen glances were caught red-handed at dinners, or the occasional discreet touches in passing when in public. Her mind wandered to previous nights, their poor excuse for starved hunger merely satisfied by close proximity and idle chatter.

How long would it take for her to seduce her king? Would he even unravel at her behest?

It was rather appalling to think aloud or within one's own mind to carry out such acts, and yet the idea itself proved far too enticing to ignore. She mentally slapped herself for entertaining such an indecent thought. What was she even thinking? Her emotions were flipping about, unruled and unchecked.

Dark eyes rose to rest on his silhouette shrouded in shadows by the dying light outside. She observed him roll the tip of his pipe between his lips, sharp eyes still focused on the papers as he carefully read through another draft, the sweet smell of tobacco lingering in the air between them. Then came an urge to go over to Thorin and run fingers through his hair, veer him away from his work while steering his attention towards a mutual pursuit far more pleasant as she sat in his lap. She wanted to remove that damned pipe from his mouth, replacing it with her own while shifting his attention to her instead. She missed him. For the first time in months, she truly missed his touch.

Her attention darted back to the needles in her hands, a slight tinge of warmth creeping up her neck. Was it right to think such things? Was she ready? Truly, ready? Was he?

The faint fluttering in her stomach returned. She stared down at the small square she'd been working on, its blanket form unintentional yet the needles continued its slow weave as she contemplated what was required to mend a broken heart. A distracted mind wandered over the many possibilities their future could lead to. Any fear of worry washed away with each stolen glance at Thorin sitting next to her. Each passing day eroded weakness caused by injury, doubt replaced by strength. Often, she wondered about his limits, how he would react if she placed hints for him to pick up on. Would he act on a growing desire if she did?

She rather enjoyed the notion of testing that vigorous stamina of his. Last time, he held back. There was very little privacy to be had in Laketown when sharing a house with thirteen other members. So the question remained whether he was purposefully holding back now out of fear for her own well-being.

"What is it?"

The sudden low tone of his voice startled her as a needle fell from her grasp onto her knees, loosening the last row of yarn from the tug.

"Nothing?" She said, her tone remained innocent yet uncertain.

Thorin dropped the contract he currently read, looking up at the woman resuming her task perfectly poised with grace. "I would like to believe I know my wife well enough to know when it is not nothing."

Éla stole a quick glance, straightening her back a little more as beady blue eyes relaxed under the firelight, hands clasping together when Thorin rested his forearms on his desk while leaning forward. He looked her up and down, observing her fix the position of her working utensils back in place. A few loops passed through the delicate maneuvers before resting back in her lap. A short moment ticked by and then she locked onto him. She didn't quite know what to say other than greet him softly before resuming the menial job, reaching down to pull more thread loose from the ball at her feet. The act was done on purpose for she had no words to share without sounding desperate for that edge of tenderness he didn't know he could provide.

So began the test.

There was a stoic focus to his handsome, alluring face as their eyes met again in her attempt to keep her resolve from shattering as he leaned back in his seat, pipe rising back to his mouth, the corners curling slightly by the daring sight before him. She had his undivided attention.

"Something is on your mind, love. What is it?" His watchful stare observant to the minor shifts in attitude, and strikingly so.

"What runes line your gift?" A hand rested over the teardrop shape below her neck, running a finger over the engravings circling its silver metal edge. Her actions swung like a pendulum from one side to another. For lack of better conversation, now felt as good a time as any despite her contradicting pursuits to entice her king.

The burning question was astounding even if he patiently waited for her to ask about it eventually. Thorin broke away from her sight as he inhaled a long drag from his pipe, smoke clouding over papers as he exhaled slowly. His head bowed in the slightest acknowledgment of respect as he spoke, his eyes rising to meet her soft, unknowing curiosity while bracing himself for the change in bearings that were sure to follow.

"I'll hold you in my heart until I hold you in the Halls of Mahal, for life is like a jewel - hard & multifaceted, and tough to hold on to."

A heaviness then weighed down over her chest. The runes encircling the edge were too small to make out when traced with a finger but she continued to do so as she quietly repeated the words to herself.
"When did you find time to forge such a piece?"

"After you agreed to marriage." She looked back at him wide-eyed.

"Whatever happened, you deserve to be at peace. Perhaps this will free your heart from pain and mourning." He then rose from his desk, circling around to come to her side. Kneeling down, his eyes twinkled with hope and yet his face remained solemn by the symbolism she wore.

"I hope you won't be saddened to wear this gift, knowing it's meaning." His touch grazed over the sapphire gem and followed the crevice of her neck, migrating to tilt her chin so she would look at him. The necklace itself was of ceremonial purpose, an adornment of their marriage but also signified of one's personal status. Teardrop shapes usually represented sadness and generational sorrow caught up by the beauty of the world. A symbol of emotion.

"Is that why you chose these gems? My grandmother believed sapphires were a gift from the heavens." Éla spoke quietly as she caressed his cheek with her fingers while looking into those comforting blue eyes of his. "A sign of fulfillment and hope."

"Then let us hold on to that hope. A shining light in the face of our darkest hour. To care for a lost memory, and hope for a reunion in the halls of our forebears when it is time." He held her hand to his face, shifting to kiss her palm before lowering it down to her lap, sharing the tender moment before interruptions befell their solace.

"Shall we head to dinner?" Thorin rose to his feet, hand still clasped in hers with such safe harbors, she nearly wept. An internal drowning in tears while the heart burned.

000

Music and song filled the halls with prosperity as more joined for feasting. Tossing good food was frowned upon given the shortages but that didn't stop the Company from their fun. Fiddles and flutes were cast aside and replaced by mugs of ale while singing merged into hearty laughter and tall tales.

Balin was joined at the head of the table by Thorin and Éla, his brother further down the elongated row of dwarves, no doubt already drinking his second cup. Plates of food were passed up and down the table, some grabbing meats and vegetables by the handful in passing, directly into hungry mouths without so much as a second thought. Bofur grabbed a few boiled eggs, looking to his brother ready to take a bite from some salted meat.

"Bombur, catch!"

Bofur tossed an egg down the table where the tubby dwarf sat, who looked up just in time to see a white ball thrown in his direction. He opened his mouth wide leaning forward slightly, catching the egg perfectly. Arms rose above his head in victory as he chewed on the soft food, the others erupting in cheer by the perfect shot.

Balin smiled happily as excitement settled into progressive chatter, the old dwarf grateful nothing was thrown his way. The rambunctious behavior of their comrades was better kept on their end of feasting, allowing those at the head a rather peaceful meal.

Balin turned his attention back to Thorin on his left. "What news came from the meeting today?"

"No new developments." Thorin replied, biting into some salted meat. "The storm has halted progress in Dale and shipments are on standby until it passes."

"That could take days."

"Aye. Until it does, we've reallocated more people to fix the irrigation canals instead and more guards at the entrance. Ice and debris should be fully cleared in a few days' time."

Balin fiddled with the bottom rim of his mug while listening. While any progress was good news there seemed to be one case that always took a step back.

"An unsavory conversation was had with Falo." Quietly, the advisor met Thorin's stare. The news was for his friend, not his king.

"About?" When it came to their chief councilor, every topic of discussion became serious. There was not a joking bone in that old, grumpy dwarf that could be spared for a tall tale. Balin tilted his chin to Thorin's right, the seat occupied by Éla who was deep in conversation with their heir. Thorin's sight narrowed ever so slightly upon returning attention back to Balin, who pursed his lips clearly irritated.

Thorin pushed his plate away, hunger now fueled by growing discontent. "What became of it?"

Balin inhaled, looking elsewhere. "The usual; inquiring about the quest, her health, and whatever she's been up to as of days of late. He has an interest I don't particularly care for."

They exchanged glances, Thorin's mood turning sour until he darted to the woman next to him still oblivious to their secret.

"Thorin," Balin leaned in, resting a hand to his arm, "He is not satisfied."

"That is not our problem. If he approaches you again, send him to me."

"He'll expect more than that." Balin refuted. "He suspects your marriage to be a ruse."

"How? There is nothing worth noting for his prying nose being stuck where it does not belong." Thorin kept his voice low, making sure none were listening in.

"You two keep circling around each other. What's holding you back?"

Thorin took a long swig of ale, his mood becoming less dour the more he drank. "That's hardly appropriate conversation for dinner, Balin."

"I intend not to put that pressure on you both but after your show earlier this week, you could've faked a late start." Balin shifted closer, tapping a pointed finger on the table towards him. "Do not give the council a reason to doubt. You owe each other that much after coming this far."

Thorin nodded in agreement, taking another swig as eyes scanned around the table, settling on his wife laughing and feasting with the others before looking back to his friend with an annoyance he should really save for a select few instead. "I will not risk her dignity over one dissatisfied dwarf who will look for any reason to cast her out."

Their attention was drawn back to the woman in question when she rose from her seat, dragged to join the younger ones in a dance as Bofur took up singing again with a select few playing fiddles. Thorin watched them for a few minutes, finding himself mildly entranced while watching her dance happily. He blinked away the illusion for she always wore a brave face when around others. It was endearing to see although heartbreaking in knowing their unfortunate circumstances which surrounded her changed attitude.

"She needs time." He spoke lowly.

"Then why not take some?"

Thorin shook his head slowly. Truthfully, he didn't know what or how to express his next thoughts into words. They needed more time and there wasn't enough hours in a day for him to think on it. Balin rested a hand back to Thorin's arm, steering him back to the present. "The council will understand if you tell them. With your strength returned, the mountain will not fall should you choose some peace for a day or two, get your affairs in order."

"And if we already have?" He shot back post-humourously. "You don't know what you do not see."

"That's not what I meant, laddie." Balin sat back in his seat, giving a small smile and turning to focus on the entertainment down the way, leaving Thorin to contemplate his choices alone.

Thorin remained seated, sulking in his own company and paying no attention to those moving about the room while he downed the rest of his ale.

"Oh no."

Eyes darted to the one brave enough in their approach. His sight softened upon Éla taking a seat next to his and grabbing hold of his free hand in hers. Brows raised and mouth curled upwards, her cheery appearance proved contagious in his fight against unpleasant news. "Why the grumpy face?"

"It's nothing to be concerned about."

"Alright then." She stood swiftly, tugging his hand to get up. "The others are moving to the lounge. It'll do you some good to join them."

"Éla." As he stood, he held her hand from walking away. It was just the two of them in the dinning hall. "Would you come to me if something was wrong?"

"Of course."

His hand slid up her arm, pulling her close to him so he could wrap her in an embrace.

"What's gotten into you tonight?" She wrapped her arms around his torso, hugging him back, head resting on his shoulder. "This is unlike you."

"Promise me you will?" He looked down into her curious eyes, afraid that if he broke contact he would somehow lose her forever, and so his hold tightened.

She gave him a quizzing look which brought about worry. "I promise, but only if you do the same."

Relief washed through him. His own worries and doubts vied to conquer his mind that day. Hearing her speak and body held tight to his always seemed to soothe the dwarf king. And so he released her, twirling Éla into a surprise spin before bringing her back to him, reaching for her hand as they began a slow dance.

A heartfelt smile plastered her features by the surprise act as he led them up the hall. "I didn't know you could dance. You should've joined earlier."

He spun her again, her dress flaring in the act and coming back to him eagerly excited. Now he just required a method to keep that smile on her face for all eternity as they bore into each other, continuing their secret dance towards the door. "If I did, I wouldn't be able to do this."

Thorin leaned down to kiss her gently as they continued to sway in place. The butterflies returned as Éla eased into him more, wanting nothing else in that moment despite his slowed retreat all too soon.

"If we are gone too long, someone may come looking."

Little did they know two young princes had done just that, watching in the shadows from the doors afar before leaving with smiles of their own.

000

Day 7 -

Éla accompanied Thorin late afternoon to a meeting, their paths having crossed earlier while she was out and about. The last two days had been uneventful given the raging storm outside and so the two found themselves walking about in idle chatter until a guard had summoned their king on behalf of the councilors.

As the pair made way towards the council chambers, they came unto the walkway leading up to the damaged throne. Nearing the area, Éla released her arm from her husband's hold, twirling into the seat of the king, a perfect opportunity to play coy since no one else was around. Thorin lowered his head, giving a pleading look for her to come down as he extended a hand. They didn't have time to play around. He had places he needed to be and while he was grateful to spend more time with her, he really couldn't afford any more delays with a council in waiting.

"How do I look?" Éla asked, shifting her back straight and head tilted in a regal manner before relaxing.

"Beautiful, like a Queen?" Thorin stepped closer, offering his hand once more so that they would take their leave. "You promised to accompany me, not become a distraction."

"Is that what I am now? A distraction?" She leaned forward, reaching a hand to lightly graze his fingers before pulling away. She could see the wheels turning in his head, thinking about what to do next.

"I'll be late." He warned.

"Oh? I hadn't thought sitting here would keep you from your duties." She looked around the area, feeling the stone engravings still present here and there under her touch.

Thorin came to stand in front of the throne, resting a hand on both armrests, leaning down and forcing her to sit back from his smugness. "It can, and it will if you do not vacate my throne."

Éla laughed at the prospect, wrapping her arms around his neck in a playful manner. "Then do not let me keep you, your Majesty."

Thorin's face darkened for her use of titles always led to one thing as he leaned closer to hers, but she stopped him with her fingers rising to cover his mouth. Her heart skipped a beat whenever he looked at her like that. If only she had the courage to tell him.

"I wouldn't want to sully your place of reign with disgrace by pending action."

With a hand moving to his chest, she gently pushed him back so that she could vacate her perch. "While it saddens me to part from you so soon, you are required elsewhere."

"What am I going to do with you?"

"That remains to be seen." In one swift motion, she linked her arm with his again as he led them on. His mood had improved and Éla found any opportunity worth taking if it meant she could continue her undisclosed test with him. She wasn't quite sure if he caught on to her little scheme and if he did, he played along rather well to her advances. It added to the fun.

As they entered the familiar corridors lined with guards, Fíli and Kíli stood waiting, happiness showing no restrictions as their uncle came into view. Kíli's cheeky grin alerted Thorin of a mischievous play about to unfold as his nephew's focus turned to his wife.

"No."

Kíli looked to his uncle confused. "I didn't do anything."

"The answer is still no."

Éla comforted any worries with a pat on his arm, silencing Thorin before he could retaliate with any further warnings. "I'll keep them out of trouble."

That's what he was afraid of. Thorin grumbled by the prospect of them going against their word having more free time to do as they pleased. He had a right mind to make them all sit in on the meeting, but it would do them some good to have a break too. "Behave. Both of you. I don't need to hear of trouble stirring -"

Kíli waved him off, linking arms with his aunt and Fíli on their heels as they walked away, leaving Thorin with a scowl. "Don't mind us!"

He very much minded but there was no time to run after them. Thorin would have to believe that his nephews would stay out of trouble while he dealt with business. So he reluctantly peeled away from the distancing group and sought out his summon. In truth, he should feel grateful there was some semblance of normal life returning, the playfulness of youth bringing about energy to their city-state.

He would have to let them go for now.

The princes ushered Éla towards a vacant library down the way. They sought to get as far away from the council as they could.
The orange glow of fireplaces and candles lining the walls brought about a serene atmosphere to the musky room lined with endless books and archives. Wooden tables and chairs lined the long space and ladders leaned against sections to reach higher shelves. At the end, a staircase rose to a second level lined with narrow stone columns. Red carpet lined walking paths and Éla couldn't help but find the room rather cozy.

Both princes took a seat at a table closest to the hearth set ablaze. Éla followed, quickly scanning over an old map and books spread in a mess.

"We have a favour to ask." Kíli started, looking to his brother for approval before continuing. Éla sitting patiently. The black-haired prince pointed to the map between them, circling the northern part with interest. "Ravenhill. We'd like to rebuild the outpost but it requires scout approval before anything can be done."

Éla listened intently, but knew this information would be better handled by more experienced drafters and builders. She had little knowledge of what they sought and began to wonder what it was they hid behind. "I'm afraid I would be of little help over this request, Kíli. You're better to seek out Thorin or the council for these matters. Remember, I hold no power."

"That's the thing, it would take too long to gain approval with them too busy with other matters."

"We already have a small group ready to go once the storm clears." Fíli added. "Dwalin will also accompany us."

"We just need approval from higher up." Kíli grinned wide.

"That's an abuse of your privilege." Éla's laugh faded when the two stared her down. "Wait, me? No. Absolutely not."

"Why? Thorin won't listen to half a plan unless we get dwarf boots back out there." Kíli protested, saddened by their plan unraveling so quickly. It was a good plan, a helpful one. "He'll listen to you if you ask on our behalf."

Éla pondered the request, looking back to the map and research. They certainly went all out in their planning at least. "So you want me to speak with Thorin, then?"

"Please? If you don't mind?" Kíli gave her a pleadingly hopeful look. How could she say no to an eager, young dwarf wanting to better their safety and communication with the ravens?

"There's talk of the storm easing up tomorrow. You're welcome to join us to see for yourself." Fíli offered with such sincerity, Éla had forgotten she hadn't stepped foot outside the mountain since battle. Fresh air would be a nice change, and the northern hill rested between Erebor and Dale. With Dwalin on board, it seemed safe enough for them to make that short journey without much issue.

The brothers eagerly awaited an answer from Éla as she mulled over the map.

"Fine."

Kíli couldn't contain his excitement as he clapped his brother over the shoulder.

"But only because Dwalin is coming with you. You both still have healing injuries."

"Oh, I won't be making that journey unfortunately." Fíli said, reaching for his cane. "Bard and Dain will be visiting again for the treaty signing tomorrow. As lead archer, this will be Kíli's project."

"Let me see what I can do."

The princes began explaining their plans to Éla, drawing out small details for the short expedition that would hopefully follow the next day. With the day itself becoming one of major importance, she soon found it difficult to decide when to bring the plans to Thorin. He already had enough to worry about hosting Lord Dain and Bard. This would soon become a tricky discussion to have.

000

A/N:
Remember how I used to be a queen of cliffhangers in earlier chapters? Brace yourselves because you're in for a wild ride now...
...there will be a next chapter in the next day or so, I'm currently tweaking it because I have a plan for how this continues with setups, hence the long wait this time...so enjoy!