.

Well, here it is...the big hobbit send off!

Hope you like it!

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Chapter 90

~X~

The day of the hobbits' departure dawned bright and warm, making for perfect traveling weather. All those heading out were now gathered at the gates of Erebor, ready to join up with Bard and his company from Dale. It appeared that half the mountain had turned out to wish the halflings farewell, for the battlement was packed as well as many more milling around the entryway and the gates. The hobbits would be missed, and everyone wished to send them off in style.

"Remember your promise to visit us at Rivendell the next time you come through," Elladan told Fili and Kili in parting.

"We will not forget," Fili assured him with a wide smile.

"I will be sure to warn Lord Elrond," Glorfindel teased as he mounted his steed.

"It will do no good," Elrohir retorted, the twins now astride their own horses. "We are all too sly for him. He will never see it coming."

"Just as long as I see it coming and avoid being your next victim, I will be content," the elf lord laughed.

"I would hope that my nephews would have more sense than to pull any stunts on you Lord Glorfindel…or Lord Elrond," Thorin said, giving Fili and Kili a warning look. "And should they chance to head your direction, I will remind them of this."

"I thank you for your protection, King Thorin," Glorfindel nodded. "And I look forward to the next time I am in the area, for I will be sure to stop in and enjoy more of your dwarven hospitality."

"Our gates are always open to you, Lord Glorfindel," Thorin said with a respectful bow. "You are welcome any time." He then turned to Bilbo and Gandalf, dearly hating to see them depart. "As are you, my friends. Things will not be the same after you go."

"I imagine it will be much quieter," Bilbo laughed, doing his best to paste on a happy face. "And there will be less work for the kitchen as well."

"All things we would gladly endure if it meant keeping your company, Master Baggins," Thorin assured him, stepping forward and pulling him into a friendly embrace. "Thank you for coming…and for bringing me my one. I will never be able to repay you for that kindness."

"I only wish I could take all the credit for that, Thorin," Bilbo laughed, stepping out of his friend's hug and moving to wrap his own arms around Marigold. "Yet I firmly believe that she somehow knew her future was here, and after that, there was no stopping her. Isn't that right, lass?"

"Yes, I believe it is," Marigold nodded, happy tears springing to her eyes as she stared up at Thorin. "But thank you for giving me the reason, and the courage, to make the journey in the first place, Cousin Bilbo."

"You are most welcome, my dear," he told her, stepping over to Bergie next. "I would hug you, but I fear I won't reach!" he laughed, eyeing her now enormous belly.

"Oh, hush now," she scolded, reaching out and grabbing hold of the hobbit and pulling him in. "You take good care of yourself, and watch over everyone on the journey home. You are, after all, the only warrior among them."

"Warrior?" Bilbo scoffed. "Only by accident, and I certainly never wish to be so again."

"And we aim to keep it that way, my dear Bilbo," Gandalf laughed, placing his hand on the hobbit's shoulder.

"I expect you to keep an eye on our mutual friend here," Thorin informed the grey wizard.

"Two eyes, as often as I can spare them," he chuckled. "And I will be coming by to check on you as well, Thorin. I have an invested interest in your future now, seeing as how I married the two of you. And who wouldn't wish to see a dwarf and a hobbit babe, whenever they see fit to arrive. That desire alone will draw me back."

"Your visits are always highly anticipated," Dis told him. "Don't stay gone for long."

"And you best keep to your promise and come visit when it is safe to do so," Bilbo admonished, turning to look at the rest of their original company who were standing nearby. "Bag End is always open to you all, and I will be sure to stock my pantry before you come. Can't have my favorite dwarves going hungry, now can I."

"We will miss that about you, Bilbo," Bofur laughed. "Always trying to mother us. You are worse than Dori."

This got everyone laughing, and after a round of hugs and slaps on the back, Bilbo and Gandalf heading for their mounts.

Flinn and Frodo had been standing across from each other for a long time, listening to the others talk, yet never taking their eyes off the other. Both had said their goodbyes earlier, but as the moment of their parting drew near, Flinn had the feeling it was not quite enough. Suddenly stepping forward, he grabbed hold of one of his buttons, yanking it off his coat and holding it out to his sword-brother.

"Here," he said, putting the golden object in Frodo's hand with a wide grin. "These buttons are magic. They once helped my adad to find me when I was lost, and now this one will lead you back to me someday."

Frodo stared down at the metal fastener with wide eyes, before tugging at one of his own wooden buttons on his coat, tearing it off and handing it to Flinn.

"Mine might not be magic…but maybe it will help you find your way to the Shire as well," he said hopefully.

"I'm sure it will," Flinn nodded, throwing his arms around his friend and giving him one final hug. "I'll miss you."

"I'll miss you too," the hobbit assured him.

And then the two stepped back, now fully prepared for the moment when they must be parted.

It was also getting to be time for Marigold to say her final words to her family, and everyone could tell that it was not something she was looking forward to. She hugged each one in turn, her tears growing more pronounced by the moment.

"We will write often," Menegilda promised, wiping at her own weeping eyes.

"And we expect to hear back from you as well," Rory instructed. "I need to know the moment I become a grandfather."

"I will write you every day," Marigold sniffled.

"Now let's not get carried away, sis," Saradoc laughed, though he too was misting up. "Those ravens have better things to do than to carry our sappy letters back and forth across Middle Earth. Abuse of your queenly power would not be very hobbitish of you."

"Don't you listen to him," Esme told her, engulfing her in one final hug. "You write as often as you like, and we will do the same. And who knows, maybe soon we will be sending you news that you will be an aunt as well."

"I hope so," Marigold laughed. "Take care of each other and think of us often."

"We will," Menegilda agreed. "Just as I know you will be thinking of us."

"Treat my little flower well," Rory admonished Thorin one last time. "I might be far away, but I will still come back and kick your backside all the way to Mordor if I hear she is unhappy."

"I swear she will never know a day of sorrow," he then turned and looked at his wife's tear filled eyes. "Well…not after this day at least."

And so when each of the hobbits had climbed on their ponies, and all the goodbyes had been said, nineteen halflings, along with a wizard and three elves, turned their mounts towards Dale and the awaiting company of men. Many were waving and calling back and forth, wishing them a safe and speedy journey as they headed out. No one seemed to notice that Fili and Kili were looking a bit concerned, or how the twins were turning around on their horses and staring back at the two dwarves questioningly.

"Did something go wrong?" Kili whispered to his brother, twisting his head around to stare back at the mountain.

"I hope not," Fili muttered, going over in his mind everything they had done to insure all went off without a hitch.

"Well, it has to happen now or it will be too late," Kili hissed, his tone anxious.

"I know! But there is nothing I can…" There Fili stopped speaking, for just then there came a tremendous boom from the western side of Erebor. Everyone jumped, even those who were expecting it, as all the hobbits stopped their ponies and turned around to see what had happened, their eyes wide with fear.

Yet, when they did, their faces lit up with delight, for they were witness to some of the most beautiful colors of light exploding over Erebor - sparks of green, red, blue and yellow, all raining down upon the mountain. Three more spectacular fireworks went off next, each one more vibrant than the last. And while it would have been far more impressive in the dark, even in the light of day everyone stared in wonder and surprise.

"It worked, Adad!" Flinn squealed, jumping up and down with glee. "It really worked!"

"Of course it did," Fili said with pride. "My plans always work out."

"Now don't go lying to the child," Thorin warned, giving his nephew a playful wink. "I can recall many of your escapades that fell spectacularly short of the mark." He tipped his head up and admired the next explosion of color. "So this is what you and those elves were up to?"

"Yep," Kili nodded, staring up at the light show with a wide grin. "Not too shabby, right?"

"It will do," Thorin nodded, looking as if he were contemplating something. "Mind telling me where you got your hands on fireworks?"

"I found them in one of the storerooms," Fili revealed. "I think Gandalf must have left them here by mistake and completely forgot about them. So we thought we would put them to good use."

"Where did you set them off at?" Dis asked, shading her eyes in hopes of seeing where the blasts were coming from.

"We placed them on the ledge outside the secret entrance," Kili said with a smug look. "No one ever goes out there, so it was the perfect place!"

"I'm just glad that I wasn't the target of your prank this time," Thorin laughed. "With all your colluding, I was getting a bit worried."

"Oh, no, Uncle," Kili said in mock horror. "I have learned my lesson about pranking you!"

When the final fireworks went off, and the last of the colorful sparks silently fell from the sky, everyone burst out in cheers, clapping and yelling their praise. Fili and Kili gave Elladan and Elrohir a nod of gratitude for their help, which they returned with wide smiles. Flinn and Frodo waved excitedly at each other, quite pleased over the part they had played in the amazing display.

Gandalf was laughing heartily as well, which left Fili and Kili wondering if the wily wizard had known about their scheme all along. One never knew with Gandalf…he always kept you guessing. Still, it was indeed a wonderful send off for the hobbits, and it was guaranteed that no one would forget this day for a good long time.

"So…exactly how did you pull this off?" Dis asked, looking over at her sons suspiciously.

"With a lot of planning, not to mention some very careful preparation," Fili began.

"And a really, really long fuse," Kili finished, causing everyone to burst forth in laughter…and for a day like this, it was the best medicine imaginable.

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And so time passed, as it was wont to do, and two weeks after their departure, the first messages from Bilbo and the party came in by raven. They were delivered to Thorin's council chambers, where he was speaking with Marigold, Kili, Fili, Sier, Balin, and Dwalin about this year's Durin's Day celebration. Dis was busy taking care of Flinn at the moment, but they knew she would be elbow deep in the plans very soon. Marigold was beside herself with joy at receiving several personal envelopes from her family as well, but held off opening them as she bid Thorin to read Bilbo's out loud.

Dear Thorin and Company,

We have reached Beorn's home after a rather uneventful trip through Mirkwood. We encountered no spiders, thanks to the diligent efforts of Thranduil's guards, and we never lost the path once.

Upon arriving at our favorite skin-changer's abode, we were shocked to find that we were not the only guests visiting. Beorn has become rather friendly with the woodmen living between the Anduin river and the fringes of Mirkwood, and apparently one of their lasses has taken quite a shine to him. She is very tall, with long blond hair and a stout build, and goes by the name of Henna. She and her older brother stayed for dinner our first night, and it was rather entertaining to watch the two of them interact. Something tells me that soon you will be receiving a wedding invitation, if things keep progressing like this. We are all very happy for him.

Everyone is well, and we are enjoying a nice rest here at Beorn's. We have had no troubles thus far and the ravens are keeping us well informed as to who might be lurking on the roads ahead. Please thank Lord Simek for his aid in this regard.

Rory, Menegilda, Saradoc and Esme send their love to Marigold, and you as well, Thorin. Rest assured that we are looking out for them and they are doing very well for their first official journey by land.

We hope all is well with you, and we will send word when we reach Edoras.

Ever your friend,

Bilbo Baggins

"Well, that's an interesting turn of events," Dwalin snorted, scratching at his mustache and beard. "Beorn…with a wife!"

"I think it's wonderful," Sier said, looking oddly irritated by Dwalin's comment. "He deserves to find love after all he has been through. I hope things work out for him and this Henna." She then stood up and walked over to a nearby table and poured herself a glass of water. Fili eyed her curiously, her sudden outburst quite unlike her…but Sier waved him off.

"As do I," Kili nodded, long having felt sorry for the plight of the skin changers.

"And I'm happy to hear that everything is going well on the journey," Fili added, still watching Sier closely as she came back over and sat down once more, her movements appearing oddly stiff and awkward.

"Aye," Thorin nodded, looking at the letter once again. "But don't think I didn't notice Bilbo's dig about them not losing the path this time."

"Well, they have a wizard and three elves to guide them," Balin huffed, never having enjoyed thinking about that mind boggling time they spent lost in Mirkwood. "We were left to find our way on our own!"

"I think we will all agree that it was not the highlight of our journey," Thorin said, wishing to bring this particular subject to a close. "They still have quite a ways to go, yet I cannot think of better guides and protectors than who they currently have. Bard is a fine warrior and the guards he brought will guarantee that they reach his daughter's kingdom safe and sound."

"I truly can't thank King Bard enough for offering to travel along with them," Marigold said, unable to hold back any longer and began digging into the first letter from her mother. "It eases my mind to know they will have a military escort at least to Rohan."

"From there, they will still have Glorfindel and the twins to see to their safety," Fili pointed out, knowing just how formidable the elf lords were in a battle. "I don't think we need to worry about our hobbits getting home safely."

"No indeed," Thorin nodded, patting his wife's hand affectionately. "And before you know it, we will be visiting them in the Shire and you will have them in your arms again."

"If your arms aren't already full of your own babies," Kili laughed, watching Marigold blush slightly and lay her hand over her stomach with a smile.

"Ummm, speaking of babies," Sier broke in, her face suddenly turning a bit pale as she tightly gripped the arms of the chair she was sitting in. "Fili…I…I think it is time for our little one to make an appearance!"

Everyone stood from their seats and turned to stare at Sier in shock, Fili most of all. Yet in a heartbeat he was at her side, kneeling down in front of her chair and taking her hand in his.

"N-n-now? The baby is coming n-n-now?" he stammered, his eyes wide and his mouth falling open.

"I believe so," she nodded, doing her best to smile, yet a sudden moan let everyone know that she was indeed in the grips of labor. "I think it's time to head to the healing halls."

"Yes! Right…the healing halls!" Fili sputtered, helping his wife to her feet, yet as she doubled over in pain, he quickly scooped her up in his arms, determined to carry her there. "Kili, fetch Amad! Balin, Dwalin, you go clear the way!" the nervous father said, barking out orders and watching everyone scurry to comply.

Thorin and Marigold remained at Fili and Sier's side, speaking comfortingly to both of them the entire way. When they arrived at the healing chambers, they were surprised to see Bombur hustling out the door himself, apparently in a rush to get somewhere.

"Dwalin!" he called to the bald warrior, yet his next words died on his lips as he saw Fili carrying Sier inside, a look of pain on the dam's face. "Oh, my!"

"Take her in here," one of the healing maids instructed, leading Fili through a doorway as the rest of the group halted in the waiting area.

"Where is Oin?" Thorin asked, looking around as if he expected to see the elderly dwarf on duty.

"He's in there," Bombur spoke up, pointing towards another room to the left. "With Bergie!"

"WHAT?" Dwalin was instantly alert, taking a few steps towards the door Bombur pointed at before anyone could explain.

"She was visiting with Ilin when she suddenly went into labor," the rotund dwarf explained. "The two of us helped her down here and I was just on my way to go find you when you came in with Sier." He stopped and rubbed his face in wonder. "Two babes born at the same time?"

"Well, if we did our math right, we figured they were bound to be delivering rather closely," Marigold nodded, to get into the room with her aunt Bergie. "But who would have guessed it would be on the same day?"

Just then the door burst open and in stormed Dis, appearing a bit frazzled, but with a look of pure determination.

"Where is she?" she demanded. "Where is Sier?"

"Fili took her into the birthing room," Thorin informed his sister. "She looks to be in pain, but that is expected…right?"

"Of course she's in pain!" Dis huffed, looking at her brother like he was insane. "She's about to give birth! Do you think this will be a walk in the meadow?"

"That isn't all though," Marigold broke in, ignoring the disgruntled look of her husband at his sister's sharp words. "Bergie has gone into labor as well. Oin will be dealing with two births at once!"

"Oh, dear!" Dis gasped, looking over at her cousin, who appeared almost ready to fall down. "Dwalin…are you all right?"

"I…I don't know," he answered truthfully. He had dreamed about this day for a long time, but now that it was here, he was not sure he was ready. In fact, he knew for a fact he was not ready! "But Dis…I have to go in there. I have to be with Bergie while she gives birth."

"You what?" This time it was not only Dis who responded, but Balin and Thorin as well.

"You can't go into the birthing room during her time!" his brother protested. "It's not tradition!"

"Hang tradition!" Dwalin roared, looking over at Dis for support. "Bergie said she wants me in there, and by Mahal's ax, I swear that is how it shall be!"

"Of course!" Dis agreed, bringing herself up to her full height and grabbing onto Dwalin's hand to pull him along. "If Bergie wants it that way, then that is the way it shall be. Just don't you dare faint, cousin, or I swear I will kick you while you lie there on the floor!" And with that she opened the door and the two disappeared inside.

Moments later Ilin came scurrying out, her eyes wide with shock.

"What is Dwalin doing in the birthing room?" she squeaked, looking as if she was completely scandalized. "It is simply not done!"

"Well, hobbits and dwarves have very different ideas when it comes to these things," Marigold calmly explained. "And since this child will be a mixture of both, then I say our customs in this regard should be as well."

"Does that mean you expect Thorin to be in there with you when your time comes?" Ilin questioned, looking up at her king with a bit of a smile.

"Does it?" Thorin asked, staring down at Marigold with fear in his eyes.

"We will discuss this later, my love," she assured him, patting his hand reassuringly. "Right now, let's deal with Bergie and Sier."

At that moment, the door to Sier's room opened and Fili was almost forcibly ejected from the room by the healing maid, closing it behind him in finality.

"I've been kicked out," Fili grumbled, stalking over to one of the benches and sitting down in a huff. He leaned over and placed his head in his hands. "I think I'm going to be sick," he moaned. "I feel so useless…so helpless. I wish there was more I could do."

"Just be ready to welcome your new son or daughter," Thorin told him, coming over to sit next to his distraught nephew. "No one knows how long this will take…so just sit back and be prepared to wait."

And wait they did….

But thankfully...since I just this very day finished the final chapter of part 2... you will NOT have to wait long to find out. For the final few chapters, I will now be posting daily. So no waiting!

What did you think of Fili, Kili, and the twin's plan? Was it good?

And I hope the partings of the hobbits did not make you too sad.

Well, babies are a coming! And both at the same time too! Poor Oin...I hope he gets paid overtime.

See you on Thursday to see who had what.

Guest Reviews:

abc: Yes, Flinn and Frodo do want the prove they can be good lookouts as well as help pull off something that will be a fine send off for Frodo and the rest of the hobbits. I think you are right, Flinn gets his wits from his grandmother. ha ha. Marigold will indeed miss her family, but she is in the process of making one of her own. ha ha. Thorin will take care of her and keep her happy. And after the first kid...she might change her mind about having six. ha ha.

Aranel Mereneth: Thorin loves his littlest nephew...they are so cute together.

gginsc: I hope the big send off was to your liking! Now on to the babies!