Chapter Thirty-Three

SUMMARY: Bard arrives in Dale, to an enthusiastic welcome. But he's got some news to deliver – good and bad.

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The Woodland Realm, 25th of February, 2942 T.A.

Soon, the high walls and the West Gate of Dale were in sight, and the bells rang, to announce their arrival. There were cheers, and good wishes shouted out, as Bard and Fînlossen made their way to front of the Great Hall.

Percy was there to greet him at the large platform at the top of the steps. "It's about time you got back." He grinned, and embraced Bard tightly.

"How's our girl?" he whispered, looking into Bard's eyes.

"She's… getting better every day." Bard gave him a weak smile. Then he shook his head slightly and made his voice cheerful. "She is anxious to see her Uncle Percy; all the kids are."

"And as soon as I let go of that wife of mine, I'll be giving those Sea Monsters plenty of attention." The older man smiled.

"Well, the Little Bean plans on showing you all over the Palace, so that chair you sent was a big help." Bard told him, as they walked inside the Great Hall, followed by the crowd. "She came out of her room yesterday, so she'll have plenty to distract her, till I get back there." He grinned at the older man. "I've put Tilda in charge of keeping you out of trouble, so don't be surprised if she takes that seriously."

Percy laughed. "Making that child laugh will be my pleasure. We've all been waiting, so you're going to have to say a few words to the men here about Tilda."

"I will, as soon as I see Tauriel and - OOOF!" Bard was suddenly flung to the ground, the wind knocked out of him.

Thangon had heard Bard's voice and raced down the corridor and into the Hall, barking the entire way. As soon as the giant dog saw Bard, he yelped, and threw himself at his Master with unbridled joy and began to wash his face.

"Phfft…phfft… Gods, you big…pfttt… goof!" Bard spit out, as the huge pink tongue smothered him. The dog was laying on top of him, and his full weight was keeping Bard from taking a decent breath. "It's all right, Thangon," he said what the little air he had left in his lungs. "I missed you, too… now, let me get up, will ya?"

All the men were roaring with laughter, as Feren made his way through the crowd to pull Thangon off by his collar, and helped him up.

"Thanks Commander. Guess the big guy missed me." Bard brushed himself off, and tried to wipe the slobber off his face.

"So it would seem." Feren grinned.

"Bard!" A feminine voice was heard, and soon he was surrounded by strong arms and long, red hair. "I'm so glad to see you!"

"Hello, Tauriel." Bard grinned. "How are you?"

"I am all right." The red-head didn't look all right. "How is Tilda? How is Ada, and Sigrid and Bain?"

Bard took her hands. "There's every indication so far, that Tilda will be fine; it will just take some time." He smiled at her. "They all miss you terribly, especially your Ada and Galion."

Tauriel looked relieved. "I miss them, too."

"We'll talk later, all right?" Bard told her, "I want to catch up with how you are doing."

Thangon couldn't stand it, and put his front paws on Bard's shoulders, with his tongue hanging out, and hugged him again, forcing Bard to take a step back and stay upright.

"Go on; get down, you." Bard laughed, as he pushed the dog away. Thangon got down, but stood beside Bard and leaned on him, heavily, and Bard lurched to the side, before he steadied himself. "I love you too, boy. Just hang on a minute."

Bard stood up on a chair and gave a short speech to the residents, letting them know of his daughter's condition, and thanking them for their concern and prayers, and explaining his reasons for another trip in two weeks.

Percy had been right. Everyone was supportive, and no one disputed his plans for future trips.

"You do what to need to take care of your bairns, My Lord," were the gist of all the comments he heard shouted out at him.

"Thank you all! I'm glad to be back, and eager to keep working."

He nodded at the applause, and made his way to his room, to throw his rucksack on his bed, then went to his study with Alun, Percy, Feren and Tauriel.

"So… What did I miss?" he asked them.

"Nothing, really." Percy said. "Building has slowed a bit because of the snows, but we're keeping at it."

Feren added. "The joint-Army maneuvers went well, and I was pleased at how well my troops worked with General Dwalin's men."

"Tell me, Feren," Bard asked, "did you get the sense the Dwarf troops were willing to do this, or was it because Dáin and Dwalin forced them?"

"To be honest, Bard, it was both. Many of the Dwarves still have a grudge about our confrontation, before the Battle. I have to say, there are a few Elves who have similar feelings."

Bard sighed. "I can understand that. It's only been three months, and, all things considered, I think it's a miracle we're doing as well as we are. I give you and Dwalin the credit for your strong leadership."

"Thank you, My Lord." Feren was pleased at the compliment. "We were pleased to see some of that animosity dissipate. Over time, things will get better."

"Now," Bard smiled, "I want to tell you I had the great pleasure of finalizing Rhian's adoption yesterday. Ben is thrilled to have a daughter and busts his buttons over his new grandson."

Percy grinned. "Aye, that's good to hear."

"It is," Alun told him. "It was a pleasure to write up the papers. She couldn't do better than Ben. I've heard the same from the men. They all take it badly that any among them would hurt a woman like that. I think that's a good sign for Dale; things like that won't be accepted, whether there is a law written about it or not."

Bard was pleased to hear it. With so many changes going on, preserving his people's culture for tolerance and respect is most precious, and something that can't be forced.

"You'll be happy to know Rhian's a different girl than the one who left. That baby is growing like a weed, too."

"Good!" Percy clapped his hands together. "How's my wife?"

"Busy as ever, and anxious to see you. You should see how she runs the place, and, as usual, runs our family with military precision. It's fun to watch her order Thranduil around, but I think he enjoys it, though he won't admit it. All the orphans seem happy, and I've checked out the Guild training some of the women are taking. The Elves are bending over backwards to help; and they're thrilled to pieces that some of the kids will be staying." Bard told them about Gildor's children, as an example.

Then Bard couldn't put off an unpleasant task any longer.

"Unless there's anything pressing, I need to speak to Alun alone, for a while, and if someone could fetch Llewelyn for me, I'd appreciate it."

After the others left, Bard turned to Alun. "Something has happened, and I didn't want you to be told by messenger."

"Is it Rhys? Oh Stars…"

"No, no, no… He's fine; in fact, he's doing well at school, and he was a big support to all of us when Tilda was at her sickest. Thranduil said he never left Bain's side."

Alun sat back, relieved. "Thank the Valar."

"You've done well by that boy, Alun; you've a lot to be proud of. Thranduil told me he sees great potential for him; and thinks he'll be a wonderful Commander, when Bain becomes King."

The man grinned from ear to ear. "I'm very proud of him."

"What I have to talk to you about, concerns your mother and your aunt, Alun. I know we spoke of the idea of shipping them off to Bree, but things have changed, and you need to know about them. I met with their guards, and based on their observations, decided it was necessary to interrogate them. According to their testimony, and that of several corroborating witnesses, I've decided to release your mother, and I sentenced your Aunt Iola to prison.

Alun's eyes went wide. "Wh… What? I don't understand."

"Alun, when you were living with them, was it your mother who abused you the most? I'd like you to think about it, for a minute. I can understand your anger for not protecting you, and your anger for not protecting Rhys, but was it Ina, or your Aunt, who did the screaming, and the beating?"

"Well, I guess I lumped them together in my mind. But my mother beat me, too. Not nearly as often, but…"

"I can believe that, but when she did, where was your Aunt?"

"Oh, she was always there; shouting and egging her on."

"Did you ever hear her say that if your mother wouldn't do it, she would?"

"Aye; all the damned time. I hated that woman."

Bard nodded. "When they were confined, they didn't know the guards could understand Westron, and they overheard evidence to indicate that your mother was just as much a victim, as you and your son were. And things were just as bad as we feared about your Aunt."

"What do you mean?"

"Iola freely admitted to the murder of your grandfather, and," Bard inhaled, "and she killed your father, Alun."

The man's face went deathly pale. "Oh, gods… Why?"

"She wanted to keep control over Ina, and was afraid she'd leave her alone. She put something in his tea, and when he passed out, she pushed his body into the Lake. I'm so sorry, Alun. I truly am."

"When you were a baby, Alwyn sensed the violence in your grandfather, and made plans to leave Laketown with you and your mother. He was going to take the two of you to Bree, to get you away from your grandfather and Aunt, but Iola overheard them talking in secret, and killed him. Your father loved you, Alun, with all his heart, and he loved your mother, too. I know it doesn't bring him back, or change anything, but I know that all he wanted for you, was to be safe and have a happy life."

Alun blew out his breath. "That's what my grandparents always told me."

"I know. Alwyn's Mam And Da were good people, and taking you in was the best thing for you. I'm glad you had them."

"But…why did my mother stay? She could have left…" His eyes became red, as tears filled his eyes.

"Technically, yes, but Hannah, the midwife has experience in cases like this. Remember, she's helping Rhian, too. She helped us understand that your mother suffered terribly, and was too beaten down to believe she could take care of you. Your father made sure she felt helpless and worthless, to the point she believed it. Cruelty like that can force people into doing things they'd never normally do."

"So, she…" Alun looked at him. "How do you know that's true? How do you know she's not just making excuses to get out of trouble?"

"That's a fair question, and we did consider this. Her guards observed conversations between them, and had to stop Iola from beating your mother a few times. Even when they were in King Thranduil's office, she attacked Ina, right in front of us, and all your mother could do was cower with fear.

"We also met with Rhys." At Alun's worried look, Bard was quick to reassure him. "It only lasted five minutes. Let me tell you exactly what happened, all right?"

Alun nodded, but was still skeptical. Bard pulled a letter out of his pocket, bearing the King of the Woodland Realm's seal.

"This is Lord Thranduil's report for you, as Rhys's guardian, and we both want to assure you that Rhys handled it beautifully, and wanted to help. In fact, the King made sure the boy understood that his only job there was to help Rhys, and assured him that, if he got the least upset, Thranduil would immediately stop the meeting. I asked him three or four questions and that was it."

"And he's fine?"

"He is absolutely fine. His biggest concern, afterward, was a test at school." Bard smiled. "Anyway, you'll find that Rhys's account will agree with Thranduil's report."

"Where is my mother now?" Alun asked in a strangled voice.

"She is staying in a set of rooms, apart from everyone else, and is receiving constant care." Bard said. "She's a broken woman, Alun, she's extremely fragile. I think she'll always be delicate, but at least now, she has a chance at some peace."

Alun sat still, and tried to take in all the Bard was saying.

"I've ordered her not to contact you or your son, and she understands she needs time to get better, and for you to process all of this. If you still don't wish contact, after some time has passed, she said she'll respect your wishes. It will all be up to you, Alun, and what you think is best for you and your son."

"I don't know what to think..."

"I can imagine." Bard put his hand on Alun's shoulder. I'm not asking you to change your mind about anything, Alun; I want you to know that. I just want to let you know what we discovered, and that your mother is receiving the best of care. All I want you to do, is look after yourself and your son, do you understand? You're under no obligation in this, and if you never see her again, no one will judge you."

They sat in silence for long moments, as Alun rubbed his eyes. "I… wasn't expecting this."

"I know, my friend." Bard closed his eyes and sighed. "I wish that was all, but, I'm afraid there's more."

Alun looked at him, and swallowed. "Oh, shit… What happened?"

Bard sighed. "You were right about your grandfather. He was a sick, twisted monster, and your aunt was driven mad by his abuse, or maybe she inherited her madness from him; we'll never know. After she confessed to both murders, I was forced to send her to the dungeons, but she'd hidden a hand-made weapon in her corset..."

"What? Oh, gods… Was anybody hurt? Where is she now?"

"I'm afraid she caused serious injury to her guards, then she threw herself over the railing of the main walkway, and fell to her death. I'm sorry."

Alun sat back in shock. "Oh, Valar…"

Bard got up, and poured his friend some whiskey.

"Here," he handed the glass to him. "This will help."

Alun didn't argue, and grimaced after he drank it down. "I just…can't believe it." he said, quietly. "I…" Alun looked at him sharply. "The main walkway is right in front of the Dining Hall! Did the children see it?!"

"I'm afraid so." Bard had to tell the truth. "As soon as Daeron saw what was happening, he quickly ordered the doors shut, but the older kids saw the struggle witnessed her jump, but they didn't see anyone working on the guards. All traces of blood were cleaned up within hours."

"Are they all right?"

"I will get to that, but first, I want to let you know: we spoke to Rhys right away. He did see it, but he assured us that he wasn't too affected. Bain has been looking after him at school, and makes sure the other children don't ply him with questions or comments. Mistress Bronwyn has arranged for any child who is stressed to have someone to talk to. Rhys is fine, Alun, but I'll understand if you want to go see him. In fact; I think you should, for your own sake."

He poured the man more whiskey, and urged him to drink it. Then lunch arrived, and he made Alun eat something.

"I have to know…What happened to her guards?" Alun asked.

"Both are on their way to a complete recovery. More important, I understand your concern, but you're not responsible for any of this, so whatever guilt you're planning on feeling, let that go right now, understand?

The man nodded. "I see what you're saying. And yes; I'd like to see my son, if that's all right. As long as Rhys isn't upset, I'll wait until after Percy comes back. I won't let him delay his trip for me, and I don't want to leave you with two men gone."

"I appreciate that. You may speak with King Thranduil about your mother's condition, but I want to urge you not to try to see Ina. She's under the care of an Elven Healer named Írimë, and King Thranduil will not go against her recommendation."

"She's that bad off?"

"Aye. She is currently extremely depressed and on a 24-hour suicide watch. But she's receiving excellent care, and, again, Alun, you are not expected to be responsible for this. Just go, and look after your son, and take some time for yourself."

"Thanks."

There was a knock on the door, and Percy stuck his head in. "Llewelyn's here."

"I'll be right out." Bard looked at Alun. "You can stay here, if you need some time alone…"

"I think I'll go out for a walk."

"That's fine. Take Thangon with you." Bard smiled. "He'll cheer you up, whether you'll like it or not." He looked down at the dog, who had put his head on Alun's knee, with concern in his eyes.

"Aye, I'll do that. He's a grand dog, My Lord; and he and I have spent quite a bit of time together, while you were gone." Alun patted the giant head, and scratched the dark muzzle.

After Alun left, Bard went to the Great Hall and saw Percy and Llewelyn standing by the kitchens, and Llewelyn had a worried look.

"Is my wife all right?"

"Absolutely." Bard grinned. "In fact, she's more then all right; you've got a new baby daughter!"

The big red-headed man grinned from ear to ear. "It's a girl! Are they…"

"Mother and daughter are absolutely fine. She's beautiful, Llew. King Thranduil gifted your daughter with a traditional Elven naming ceremony, and granted her dual-citizenship for both Dale and the Woodland Realm. You and your family are guaranteed protection and safe passage throughout his Realm for life."

Then Bard stood up on a chair, and motioned for everyone to be quiet. "I'm happy to announce Dale has a brand-new citizen! Llew's wife Seren, gave birth to a beautiful baby daughter three days ago, with a head full of flaming red hair, just like her Da! Now, let's all have a round of drinks to wet this baby's head!"

There was a round of cheers and applause, and soon everyone was coming up to shake Llewelyn's hand, and the kitchen staff hurried to pour out drinks, to toast the new arrival.

Bard held up his tankard of ale. "May young Liliwen have a long and blessed life, my friend!"

Llewelyn pounded the table with glee. "A red-head! I've got me a little redheaded girl, named after me!"

"You'll be seeing her next week, with Percy, then?"

"You just try and stop me; King or no." the man grinned, as he brushed the drink out of his moustache.

"I wouldn't dare. Congratulations; Dale can always use another Princess. And she's got two big brothers to look out for her. You're a blessed man."

Llewelyn nodded, happily. "I've got a daughter…" Then he smiled at Bard. "There's nothing like it, is there?"

"All the gold in the world couldn't compare. And, the best part it is, she has her Mam's pretty face." Bard raised his glass. "Here's to little redheads, and their homely Das!"

Llewelyn roared with laughter, "I'll drink to that!"

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Later that evening, Bard and Tauriel had a quiet drink in front of the fireplace in his chambers. Thangon took his usual place on the bed, and was yipping softly and moving his paws in his sleep.

Bard smiled over at him. "That will take getting used to, again." He shook his head. I can't believe I missed that goofball, but I did."

They sat for a while in comfortable silence, but Bard noticed she'd been unusually quiet, and was hoping she'd feel comfortable enough to let him help, if he could.

"I hear you spent some time at Erebor while I was gone?" he asked her.

She nodded, and looked down at her drink. "I helped with the construction some, but Lord Percy made me go; and told me not to come back for a week." She smiled a little.

"Maybe you needed it. You seem sad, Tauriel."

"I truly like living in Dale and being a part of it, Bard..."

"But?" Bard prodded gently.

"It was… difficult… when Tilda got so sick, and I was… I was afraid something would happen, and if she were to die, I could not…" A tear rolled down her face.

"We were all afraid she would die, Tauriel."

"Yes, but if something terrible were to happen, everyone could go…"

Bard sat back and looked at her with sympathy. "But you are banished."

She nodded, and sniffed. "I know I deserved it, but…. It is hard, at times like these. At the time Ada passed the sentence, he warned me the pain would sink in, after a time…" Her lips trembled. "I miss my rooms at the Palace, sometimes, and I miss the trees…"

Bard got up and sat down on the arm of her chair and put his arm around her. "I'm sorry, love. You know your Ada hates it, and he really misses you. They all do."

She wiped a tear. "It is selfish, really…"

"No, Tauriel; it's not selfish, or silly! We're a family; and you're an important part of it." He put his hand under her chin, and made her look at him. "Let me tell you something else; if Tilda were dying, and you needed to say goodbye to your sister, I'd bring you to that Palace myself, and I wouldn't allow anyone to stop me!"

Tauriel stared up at him, in shock. "You could not do that, Bard!"

"I absolutely would, and I'd dare anyone to stand in my way, even your Ada!" Bard said, and he meant every word. "Look; I understand the Woodland Realm has laws, and I understand that Ada must follow them whether he likes it or not, but, times are changing! Elves are engaging with the wider world, and much of that is thanks to you! Your actions helped to change your father, he and I could never have fallen in love, if it weren't for you! You showed Thranduil how wrong he was, and he loves you for that!"

"It was wrong to raise a weapon to my King."

"Yes. But you did that for love; and it saved lives! You saved my people; we would have died if Thranduil had left, don't you see? You were both right; your Ada was right to want to protect his people, but you also wanted to save lives." He smiled at her. "Tauriel, I'd be willing to bet, after some time has passed, he'll approach his Council, about a pardon for you."

Tauriel looked at him curiously. "Did Ada…"

"Oh, no; nothing like that. I just have a feeling your Ada's biding his time. It's a smart move, if you think about it. Once his Council sees for themselves all the benefit your actions brought to the North, they'll be open to a pardon; I'm sure of it." Bard gave her a supportive look. "Just be patient, love. If it's meant to happen, it will."

"I'd like that very much. My home is Dale now, and I have a place in Erebor, but I would like to go back with the children, occasionally."

"Let's hope you get your wish." He pulled her to her feet, and kissed her brow. "Now, get some rest; we've got a City to rebuild."