12

Chapter Twenty-Seven

SUMMARY: Our Kings' hibernation went well; now it's back to business. Bard to give the terrible news to Ina about her sister, and Thranduil visits his Guardians.

"Da! How was your trip! Hi Ada!" Bain called out to the Kings, as they entered their chambers in time for lunch with the children. They were all sitting around the table, just about done.

The boys greeted them a grin, but Sigrid looked down at her plate.

"Sigrid, can I speak with you, for a moment?" Bard asked her, quietly.

Thranduil saw the girl nod, and they went into the other room. After they left, he sat down next to Rhys. "Are you all right?"

The boy shrugged. "I think so. I hardly knew them, and what I did know, I didn't like."

Bain said, "Some of the other kids try to ask him about it, but I make sure they leave him alone."

"Are they being cruel?"

Bain shook his head. "They're just curious, but Rhys shouldn't have to talk about anything he doesn't want to."

Thranduil smiled at the boys. "I am very proud of both of you. But, Rhys, if you find yourself upset, and need some support, please come to me, right away."

The blond boy nodded. "Who's going to tell Da?"

"Lord Bard has decided to tell him in person, when he returns to Dale. So please; just worry about your schooling, and continue to look out for each other."

Bard closed the door to the children's apartment, and sat down on the couch, patting the seat beside him. "Here, love."

Sigrid didn't meet his eyes, but she sat, with one leg tucked under.

"Darling, it was wrong of me to yell at you like that, yesterday. Other things were upsetting me, and I shouldn't have taken it out on you."

"No, Da. You were right. I shouldn't have left the school like that. I should've listened to Hilda…"

"That's true, and I'm proud of you for understanding the mistake you made. It's important that you follow orders; particularly from those who need to keep you safe."

"I know, Da. I just had this idea I wanted to help you…it was a stupid thing to do."

Bard put his arm around her, and gathered her to him. "Oh, it wasn't so stupid. You're a brave girl, and someday, when you're a fully trained healer, you'll be ready to dive in like that. But you're also a Princess of Dale, and you'll be guarded every day for, the rest of your life. As annoying as that can get, you have a guard, for a good reason. Your safety comes first, for them and especially for Ada and me. I can't ever lose you like that."

He kissed her hair, and went on. "I need to remind you, that if you disagree, or have a problem, speak with one of us in private. We must always present a united front to the world. Remember what Ada said about what could happen if we don't. There will always be those to try to use our disagreements to their advantage, and if any of you develop a reputation for recklessness, that can leave you open to kidnapping, or much worse."

"I know, Da. I just…forgot, and I'm sorry." She sighed with frustration. "There's so much to worry about!"

"Well the good news, our guards do most of the worrying for us; all we have to do is let them. Don't worry, love, we'll all get the hang of it." He nudged her. "Forgive me for yelling?"

"If you forgive me, too." She wrapped her arms around him. "You're still the most wonderful man I know."

Bard held her face in his hands. "You fill my heart, to bursting, when you say things like that." He kissed her forehead, then pulled her up. "Come on; let's get you ready for afternoon classes."

When they went back into the Dining Room, Hilda gave him a surreptitious wink, as she stood up. "Come on, kids, let's clear the table for Galion. Rhys, it's your turn to wipe off the table and chairs."

"Where did you and Ada go, Da?" Bain asked hopefully. Thranduil could see Rhys look up with equal curiosity.

Galion cleared his throat. "Bain, we spoke about this, remember?"

"I was just hoping –"

"Not another word," Hilda said. "Unless, of course, you want to clear lunch all by yourself, and do it for the rest of the week?"

"Sorry," Bain mumbled.

"How is Tilda?" Thranduil asked, hiding a smile.

"She's sleeping." Hilda told them. "I gave her lunch, already. I'm on duty today; Meriel sent word she couldn't come." Hilda said.

"I thought she might. Thank you for filling in." Thranduil said, and only smiled, when Bard and Hilda looked curious. "Did our Tithen Pen's morning go well?"

"Oh, aye. She worked extra hard on her exercises. Then we colored with the paper and she wanted to work on her letters with the slate. After she ate, she drifted right off, when I read to her."

"Was she upset when you told her we wouldn't be back until today?" Bard felt a pang of guilt.

"She was, so the boys suggested we all take our dinner in there, and have a picnic. Sigrid had us all singing songs, and that cheered her right up."

"That is good." He turned to the children, who had finished their chores, "Have a good afternoon." Thranduil patted the children's heads as they went into their apartment to gather their things for afternoon classes.

"Have fun, Sea Monsters!" Bard called. "See you later!"

He turned to head into the nursery, but Hilda grabbed his arm. "Wait." She whispered, and put her hands to her lips. "Not just yet."

Once they heard the outer door to the children's rooms close, she pulled them over to the couch and they all sat down. Galion came over at sat beside her, and they both looked at the Kings with a little anxiety, and not a little curiosity.

"Now, I won't ask for details, but we need to make sure you two are all right. You two made us sick with worry." She looked them up and down. "Well, you both look like you've got some rest, at least."

Thranduil smiled and took Bard's hand. "We are much better, thanks to the two of you."

"We're fine now; I promise." Bard said.

Galion opened the drawer to the sideboard and reached behind the cups. "While you were on your 'important business,' My Lord, you brought back a present for Tilda."

"We did?"

"We did?" Bard echoed.

Galion handed him a stuffed knitted doll, the same size as Charlotte, but this one looked like an Elf, right down to the long, straight black hair, and pointed ears. It was taller and thinner than Charlotte, and had embroidered grey eyes.

"That's cute!" Bard laughed. "Where did you get it?"

"Oh, the knitting circle made them." Hilda told them.

"We feared a setback with her health, so we thought the promise of a present might keep her calm." The Aide looked sheepish. "A 'bribe,' if you will."

"That's brilliant," he grinned. Then Bard looked at the two of them, with sober eyes. "Seriously, though; you both saved us. You really did; I can never thank you enough."

Hilda threw her arms around Bard. "We weren't about to let either one of you throw away the best thing that ever happened to you."

Bard said into her hair. "I'm so sorry, Hil."

"Shush now… It happened, we talked, you talked, and now it's over." Hilda said, firmly. "All that matters, is that we're all together, lovey."

She let him go, and went over to give Thranduil a hug. "I love you, too."

Thranduil kissed the top of the woman's head. "And I adore you. Almost as much as Galion does."

Galion came over and put his arm around Hilda's shoulders. "I am glad you are not angry at our little ambush."

"Don't worry Galion; I know Hilda made you do it." Bard winked at her.

"Ha!" Hilda put her hands on her hips. "Well I'll have you know, it was his idea!"

The Kings looked at each other with eyebrows raised.

"I told you she was a bad influence in him." Thranduil said.

"You also told me you like it." Bard reminded him, and kissed Hilda again, after he gave Galion a hug. "We couldn't be a family without you."

"I thank you, Bard. It is my honor; truly." The Elf said, and hugged him back.

"Now, go see the Little Bean." Hilda cleared her throat. "I think I hear her stirring."

They washed, dressed in the pink gowns, and went in, where Tilda was waking up. "Hi Da! I missed you."

"Hey Beanie! Bard went over and kissed the top of her head.

"Hi, Ada." She smiled. "We had a picnic, and I ate lunch today."

"Did you eat it all?" Thranduil asked, as he kissed her cheek.

"Uh huh."

"She's got a good appetite, today. And she gripped her spoon a bit better, too." Hilda followed them in and sat down on the chair.

"Glad to hear it. I'm sorry we had to go away, but we're back now. Did you miss us, love?"

"You both left." She pouted, at both of them.

"I know, but we're back now, and we missed you. Hope this helps make it up to you." Bard took the doll from behind his back and handed it to her.

Tilda took it, and smiled a little. "It's so pretty."

Thranduil put his arm around her. "Charlotte has another friend."

"What do you think you should name her, Little Bean?"

She thought about it. "She looks like Meriel. She's got the same hair and eyes."

"She does, come to think on it." Bard observed.

"I want to name her Meriel, too. She's so pretty."

"She will be very flattered." Thranduil hugged Tilda to him.

The two Kings chatted and cuddled with Tilda for a quite a while, till they couldn't put things off any longer.

"We've got to get to work, Beanie. Your Ada and I have some important things to take care of."

Tilda frowned. "Do you have to?"

Thranduil stood up and stroked her hair. "I am afraid so. But you have important things to do, my little one. You must introduce Charlotte to her new friend, and make sure she gets along with Daisy. Auntie Hil is with you, today, so you should have lots of fun."

Hilda took Thranduil's place. "I was thinking; we could get some scraps of fabric and make some clothes for your new dolly; what do you think of that?"

Bard and Thranduil made their way into the wide hallway, and were met by two guards, carrying something. Bard saw what it was, and shooed them into the study. It was the second Lieutenant from Dior's unit, who presented them with the evidence.

"My Lord, we have recovered the woman's body, and wanted to show you what we found." He handed the Iola's corset to Bard, who looked it over carefully, as Thranduil watched.

"Well, that explains it. See? She made a pocket to hold the knife, right next to the boning in front. No wonder Dior didn't know it was there."

Iola had, indeed, somehow fashioned a long, narrow case for her handmade dagger out of what used to be a leather purse, and positioned it next to the rigid strip of boning that supported her laces.

Thranduil shook his head. "I hate to admit this, but Iola was very clever. The only way for the guards to know it was there would be to grope or strip them."

"And if so, the guards would be accused of molestation." Bard added, then swore under his breath, then asked the Lieutenant, "Did you know the women wore corsets?"

The Guard shook his head. "Elves do not use such garments, and we were not permitted to watch the women dress."

Bard sighed. " Don't blame yourself; I am the one at fault," he told the Guard. "I didn't know of the woman's madness, but it was me who ordered you to treat them thus. You were only doing as instructed, and I'd like to extend my apology to you and your unit."

The Lieutenant saluted. "Thank you, Lord Bard."

After the guards left, Bard turned to Thranduil with a stricken face. "I was a fool to question your Guards' competence, Thranduil. Or yours. I'm sorry for that."

Thranduil took his hand. "I know, Meleth nîn. But please; we are better, now. In light of this, we will discuss with Dior different protocols to prevent such a tragedy again; that is all we can do."

Bard sighed, but he smiled a little.

Thranduil set the corset on his desk. "Come; we have an unpleasant task before us."

Before they left their chambers, Galion told them he'd ordered no one say anything to Ina, until the Kings could deliver the news themselves, which was only proper. As they made their way through the Palace, they were pleased to see all evidence of bloodshed had been removed.

"Things look good as new." Bard said. "That really helps, doesn't it?"

"It does. Especially for the children." Thranduil replied, as they reached Ina's rooms, and the waited for the guard to announce them.

"Hello, Ina. How do you fare?" Thranduil asked after they went in. An Elf named Írimë, had been assigned as her counselor and companion, and was introduced to Bard.

"I'm…I like my new rooms, My Lord. They're much nicer. It's hard to get used to being without Iola, but I'm grateful to not be alone." Ina indicated Írimë. "She's very kind."

"I'm glad to hear it." Bard told her. "I wish we were here for a pleasant reason, but I'm afraid something's come up, and we need to speak to you."

Ina looked at him curiously. "Is it Iola? Is she all right?"

Bard spoke gently. "I'm afraid she's not, Ina. Your sister died, yesterday."

The woman put her hand on her chest. "What happened?" she whispered.

"We spoke to her yesterday morning, and you were right. She had no sense of what was real, or not. As the guards were taking her away, Iola broke loose, and jumped off the side of a walkway. I'm sorry for your loss."

Ina looked at them both with wide eyes. "She…killed herself?"

"Yes, I'm afraid so. I assure you; the guards were not rough with her. We have eyewitness accounts saying they tried to stop her…"

"No, I'm sure you're telling the truth, My Lord. It's just that…" Ina shook her head and sighed. "Don't get me wrong, My Lord; I'd never wish harm on her, and I'd never wish for her to take her own life, but… " The woman sighed. "I hope she'll find some peace, now."

"Despite her dangerous behavior, Ina, I, too, am sorry for your loss." Thranduil told her. "I want you to know, I would have made sure she had the best care possible. No one deserves to live with a mind in such torment."

"How do you feel?" Bard asked.

"I…don't know how I feel, really. All I know is, it's finally over."

"Aye, some things are over, but some things are just beginning." Bard told her. "All you need to think on is getting through today. I'm glad Írimë, is here to help you."

Ina looked shyly at the brown-haired, blue-eyed Elf. "She came yesterday, as soon as I was brought here. I don't know her all that well, yet, but she helps me."

Bard turned to the attractive Elleth. "How has she been?"

"My Lord, her examination revealed some recent bruising, but otherwise, she is in good physical health. Ina had a difficult night, and has suffered bouts of panic. Considering this recent news, I will keep her sedated, for the next several days, and place a losta-luith at night, to make sure she gets rest."

Thranduil nodded. "Ina, I would like to meet with you and Írimë in my office tomorrow, so we can discuss plans for a simple service, the next day. Will that be agreeable?"

"Aye, My Lord. I thank you for that." Ina became teary. "I know she was –"

"Think nothing of it. I hope it helps."

Bard nodded and he and Thranduil made ready to leave, but not before expressing their condolences once more.

"That went easier than I thought it would." Bard remarked, once they returned to the hall.

"She's overwhelmed right now, and I believe she feels relieved, but once the shock wears off, she will need constant care for a long time."

"Aye. I think you're right." Bard said. "Now, let's see how your friends are doing."

Once they arrived at the Healing Hall, Elénaril came up to speak with them. "My Lord, Dior has lost some blood, but not as much as we originally feared. He must remain immobile, so his body can recover from the shock, so I have induced a Healing Sleep. He will be under for approximately three days. Elion is doing well, and is awake, now."

"Thank you. May we check in on them?"

"Of course." The Healer turned to Bard. "I believe you are the reason Dior is alive, My Lord. His heart had, indeed, stopped, but your blows to his chest shocked it back into rhythm. It is the only explanation."

"As long as it worked." Bard shook his head. "I apologize for losing my temper like that, Elénaril."

The Healer graciously bowed her head. "It is understandable, My Lord, and believe me, I have heard much worse."

"Still, it was too bad of me to - "

"Think no more of it." Elénaril said, in her no-nonsense manner. "Elion is on the fourth door to the right."

They made their way to his room, and found the Guard sitting in his bed, reading a book.

"How do you fare, Elion?" Thranduil asked. "You look tired."

"I am doing well, My Lord, but yes, I am fatigued. Elénaril believes I can go back to my quarters tomorrow, and be back on duty after a week."

"That's good news." Bard told him. I'm glad you're going to be all right."

The Elf smiled at him. "Thank you, Lord Bard for your help."

"Elion, one of my people injured you, and for that, I apologize. They brought us Iola's garments, and we found the pocket where she'd hidden her knife. You'd never have felt it, under the stiff corset; she'd put it right next to the laces between her breasts. You'd have never felt it, when you pat the prisoners down for weapons, unless you put your hands in there."

The Guard's eyes widened. "We would never have done such a thing, My Lord! That would be assault, but still, we neglected to…"

Bard was quick to interrupt. "As I have said to Lord Thranduil, the negligence was mine, and it is a mistake I will not make again. When you and Dior are recovered, Thranduil will meet with you to go over some new protocols, which will also be carried out in Dale."

"So… her body has been recovered."

"Aye." Bard looked to Thranduil. "We're going to have a bare-boned service in two days, for Ina's sake."

Elion asked. "If it is all right, My Lord. I would like to attend. I have felt for a long time that Mistress Ina was victimized by her sister, and for her sake, I would like to offer support."

Thranduil agreed, but with a caution. "That is very kind of you, but you may only do so if Elénaril releases you, but I do not want Ina to know you've been injured. She only knows Iola jumped, but I do not wish her to be burdened with the details at this time."

"Of course, My Lord. Thank you."

After leaving Elion to his book, Thranduil and Bard peeked in on a very pale Dior, who lay in his healing sleep. Thranduil went over to him, and stroked his brow, thoughtfully. "Fer-nesto im, Mellon nîn. Nai i Belain nauvar as elyë."

"Have you known him as long as Feren?" Bard asked his husband.

"No. Dior is only half our age; he was born 1000 years after the Third Age began, and he and Feren became friends, after he was promoted. I like him very much, Bard. He is steadfast and brave, yet he has a joyful heart, which did me good when I was struggling with my loss." Thranduil swallowed. "Dior was also with me, when my wife… He was gentle with Mírelen's body, after she was killed. He tore the sleeve off his own tunic to cover her neck, and folded his own cloak under her head…"

"That was kind of him." Bard said, quietly.

"It was. Then he came over to me, and asked to take my cloak from my shoulders. I did not understand, until I saw him tuck it around her..." Thranduil shuddered. "It was an unspeakable day, but he helped me bear it."

"Sounds like a good Elf, love." Bard squeezed his arm. "Does he have a family?"

"Not here. His sister lived in the village that was destroyed by Orcs, where we found Tauriel. After that, his mother's grief was too deep, so Dior and his father took her to the Grey Havens, and sent them to Valinor."

"I'm sorry to hear he's alone. He seems like a good chap."

Thranduil smiled. "He's not alone. He has a special someone."

"Oh? Do I know him or her?"

"You do. She helps to look after our Tilda."

"Meriel? Really?" Bard grinned. "I'd no idea."

"They had been friends for centuries, but have been seeing each other for several years. I think it has gone beyond casual, although I have a suspicion this incident will help them to understand the depth of their feelings. I hope so. It has been too long since we had a wedding in the Palace."

The elleth in question entered the room a few minutes later, and she curtsied gracefully to the two Kings. "Please excuse my absence this morning, My Lord."

Thranduil waved away her concern with a smile. "I assumed this is where you would be. Dior is fortunate to have such a dedicated caretaker."

Meriel had always been composed and professional, since Bard had met her. But now, the serenity and confidence wavered.

"Thank you both for helping to save his life. Elénaril told me how you brought him back, Lord Bard, and I am grateful."

Bard smiled at her. "I'm happy I could help, although I must admit, it was an accident."

"The dark-haired Elf nodded. "I will be back with Lady Tilda tomorrow. He will sleep for a few more days, but I wanted to make sure he would be all right. He made it through the night, and his heart and lungs and doing well, considering."

"I wish him a speedy recovery, and wish you both well." Bard put his hand on her shoulder. "I expect you to take the day off, when he awakes, is that clear?"

Meriel looked at him gratefully. "Thank you, My Lord."

After they left the Healing Halls, Bard asked his husband, "Are Elven weddings that rare? I've also heard not many children are born here, these days. Why?"

"Since the forest became so sick, Elves have not pursued such things nearly as often as they used to. Now that the White Council banished the Enemy to Mordor, I am hoping that changes. I miss officiating at weddings, and I would love to hear the laughter of Elven children in the Palace, again. Your children and those of Dale have done wonders for the morale of my own people."

"Elves can choose when to have children, but they didn't want to while your Realm suffered?"

"That is part of it. Elves do not have children during wartime, this is true. But I think Sauron's presence prevented my people from conceiving, even when they wanted them. Feren and Glélindë tried for many years, but with no success."

"Do they know that was the reason?"

"I am only speculating, but the more I consider it, I think it is true."

"But you and Mírelen conceived Legolas, with little to no trouble."

"That is true, Meleth nîn, but I am a Sindar, and Feren and his wife are Sylvan. Their kind relate to the forest in a way I cannot. It is their gift."

"If the forest was so sick, perhaps it was a curse, too."

"In that respect I suppose you're right. Yet, despite their connection they have still managed to grow and thrive in the forest, and care for it." I am more powerful in many respects, but his people have been here since the Elves first awakened under the stars. It seems logical that what affects the forest, would also affect them."

"Hmm." Bard said. "That makes sense. You Elves are fascinating creatures."

Thranduil grinned. "Thank you. I am eager to hear from Elrond when the Mountains are passable. I have a feeling that Eärendil's blessing will have something to do with this, as with other things."

"What do you mean?"

"I have the sense that the Valar's blessing through Eärendil will bring about some good things for the Woodland Realm. Things have…shifted and I believe changes are coming."

"Time will tell, love."

Thranduil smiled at him. "As long as that time is spent with you, I can handle any change that comes along."

ELVEN TRANSLATIONS:

Fer-nesto im, Mellon nîn. Nai i Belain nauvar as elyë. – Feel better soon, my friend. May the Valar be with you.

NOTES:

Bard did what was called a "Precordial thump" on Dior's chest. It is not a recommended procedure, and is no longer a part of CPR training. It looks great in the movies, and it also sounds great in a story, which is why, on Middle Earth, it works miracles.

Just don't ever try this at home, kids….