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I've had several ask about the timeline for the story, so this is what I came up with. Please let me know if I am off somewhere.
The quest for the mountain ended in 2942
Five years passed in Erebor before Fili met Sier 2947
Five more years passed before Fili met Flinn and married Sier 2952
Six more years passed before Kili and Tauriel married 2957
Making the ages of everyone:
Thorin - 211
Dis - 197
Fili - 98
Kili - 93
Hope that helps a bit.
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Chapter 148
~Eight Months Later~
~X~
Fall, then winter, came and went, with the harvest season going well, and the blanket of white snow that covered the mountain finally thawing after nearly five months. With the coming of spring, and the weather turning nice, both dwarves and men were out and about once more. And good thing too, since in only a few short weeks, there would be a double wedding in Dale!
Bard and Dis has labored long over the plans, working side by side to make sure everything was perfect. Flinn, keeping to his promise, made sure that his wife, and their ever growing child, remained safe and well rested during it all. Her stomach had grown round and plump, telling all that soon the mountain kingdom would be blessed with a new member of the royal family. Still, the dwarf princess kept on top of everything, not letting even the smallest of details fall by the wayside.
Bard, however, was what his kind would call a basket case, fretting about everything and relying on Dis more than he thought he would. One wedding would have been a challenge…but two at the same time? Tilda and Bain had argued about who would wed first, each not willing to wait. Thus, to end the feud between his children, Bard suggested they share the day and both wed together. This was hailed as the perfect idea, and the king of Dale proudly basked in the glow of the compliments he received for his notion.
Over the winter, Kili had done all he could to keep his wife's spirits up over their lack of a child. Most of the time Tauriel was her normal, happy self…yet from time to time, he would see the wistful look in her eyes and know she was thinking about children. Kili too wanted a whole passel of them, and it hurt him deeply that he seemed unable to give his wife the offspring they both desired. He spoke to Fili, Thorin, and his father at lengths about it, even going to Oin in hopes of getting something that might speed things along. Yet all anyone could do was advise him to be patient, saying that Mahal would bless them with children when the time was right. Kili just wished that time would come soon.
That was not to say the couple was not deliriously happy, for anyone who looked at them together could see the love and joy shining in their eyes. Tauriel had been accepted into the guard without too much fuss, mostly due to Dwalin's insistence and threats to any who dared to give her trouble. The elleth spent her days training the squadron of archers, as well as riding the perimeter on regular patrols in search of invading orcs. Yet each evening, as Tauriel returned to their chambers, she was greeted by her adoring husband, the two of them unable to get enough of each other.
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When the morning of the wedding finally arrived, Tilda and Brenna sat side by side in one of the backrooms of the assembly hall, as a handful of maids worked on fixing their hair. The two ladies were now very close, soon to be sisters in fact, and couldn't stop smiling at each other as the morning progressed. Sigrid, having arrived with her husband and son a week ago came in holding two beautiful flower bouquets.
"Everything is ready out there," she announced proudly. "All we need now are a couple of brides and grooms. Know where we might find a few?"
"I'm not sure about the grooms, but I can guarantee there are two brides right here, ready and willing to go," Tilda laughed, answering her sister's teasing question.
"Excellent!" Sigrid smiled, coming over and wrapping her arms around her little sister from behind. "Oh, Tilda…you are so lovely. You look more and more like mother every day."
"Da says the same thing," Tilda mused, gazing at her reflection in the mirror. "I wish I could remember her."
"I know," Sigrid nodded, realizing that she was the closest thing to a mother her sister had ever known. "But I remember, and I can assure you that you do look like her, and that she would be so happy for you today. You have a wonderful man in Dunner, he will make a good husband."
"I know he will," Tilda grinned, thoughts of her love pushing all sadness aside. "I just hope I can be a good wife."
"You?" Brenna said in shock, looking over at the woman beside her. "You will be an amazing wife! In Dunner's eyes, you are perfect, and there is nothing you can't do."
"And Bain is over the moon in love with you, Brenna," Sigrid informed her soon to be sister-in-law. "I can't imagine him ever finding fault with you either!"
"Well, just wait till he tastes my cooking," Brenna laughed, turning to face Tilda and Sigrid, now that her hair was complete. "But I dearly hope you are right, for I do so want to please Bain. He has been so wonderful, and I can't wait to be his wife. You two, the King, and everyone else has been so kind to me, I'm very fortunate to be marrying into such a magnificent family."
"And we are happy to have you as our sister," Tilda told her, leaning in and giving the maiden a warm hug. "But first, we need to get dressed, and say our vows, if we're going to be truly related."
"Agreed!" Brenna nodded, the two ladies hurrying towards their respective gowns.
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Out in the main room of the grand assembly hall, Bard, Bain, and Dunner stood waiting, all three of them dressed in their best. Thorin and the other guests were milling around, waiting to take their seats until they were told to. It would still be a while, and it was best not to expect the children to sit for too long, so letting them run around now was in everyone's best interest. Sier left the children in Fili's care as she and Tauriel excused themselves, heading off to the bride's chambers. They both wanted to see Tilda and Brenna before things started, to wish them the best.
Kili and Fili approached the two nervous grooms, giving Dunner a warm slap on the back.
"Well…today's the big day," Fili told the worried looking man.
"You still have time to make a run for it," Kili told Bain with a laugh.
"Now you two stop," Bard insisted, knowing the dwarf princes were only teasing, but he was beginning to worry that the two young men just might bolt if pressed too far. He grinned slightly, recalling just how nervous he had been the day of his own wedding. Oh, to be young and in love once again, he thought to himself. "Don't let Fili and Kili spook you," he told Bain and Dunner. "You will both do fine."
"Bard's right," Fili admitted, giving the two a wide smile. "We're just having a bit of fun with you. Once you see your bride coming towards you, nothing else will matter in the world. Trust me."
"I will hold you to that," Bain said with a weak smile, his hands wringing in worry. "Because right now, I can hardly breathe."
"I can breathe just fine…it's the standing up part that worries me," Dunner chuckled, glad to hear he was not the only one.
"Tell you what," Bain suggested to his friend, "I'll make sure you don't fall down, as long as you keep reminding me to breathe."
"Deal," Dunner agreed, very pleased that he was sharing this day, and all its worries, with his childhood friend…and soon to be brother.
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Dis, who had been fussing about this and that was at last corralled by her husband, the overly protective dwarf begging that she please just sit down for a moment and take a break.
"Take a break?" she squawked at him in disbelief. "It's only moments before the wedding starts! I will take a break when it is done and over with, and not a moment before!"
"Then at least stop for a moment and have a drink," he pleaded, pressing a cup of cool water into her hands. "You look flushed."
Dis did as she was told, drinking the liquid down in a few quick gulps. She handed the cup back to Flinn before turning around and heading off once more.
"That dam will be the death of me," Flinn mumbled, hurrying after her with a shake of his head. The last few weeks had been beyond nerve wracking for the older dwarrow, watching his energetic wife collapse into bed each night completely worn out. And whether it was due to the babe she was carrying, or all the work on the wedding, he was unsure. All he did know was that he couldn't wait for the wedding to start, so it could just as quickly be over, and Dis could go back to only taking care of herself and their child.
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Thankfully, in just a few minutes, the bell sounded, instructing everyone to take their seats, for the ceremony was about to start. The place was full to the rafters…with even a few young teens sitting up in the rafters in hopes of getting a better view. Most everyone in Dale had packed themselves inside the assembly hall, with even more standing outside watching through the windows.
Everyone from the original company was in attendance, except Bombur and his family. Ilin had given birth to their brand new little son, Bolund, not two months ago, and the rotund dwarf did not think it wise for her to be out and about with an infant just yet. He did, however, insist on baking the wedding cakes for the two happy couples, making sure they were delivered that morning with the greatest care.
Along with the dwarves of Erebor, Thranduil had made the journey to attend as well. Beside him sat Thengle, now the king of Rohan, with his enthusiastic son, Théoden, on his lap. The near ten year old boy's head was turning left and right in an attempt to take in all the sights around him. Sigrid slipped in quietly, taking her place beside her family, while saving a seat on the other side of her for Bard. The magistrate stood at the front of the room, looking out over the crowd with a solemn expression. Bain stood on the right, and Dunner on the left, leaving room in-between for their soon-to-be wives.
And then the doors opened, allowing the two brides, escorted by their fathers, to enter as they began to walk up the aisle. Both were visions of loveliness, their flowing gowns trailing behind them, and their eyes sparkling with joy.
As always, when the two found themselves attending a wedding, Fili reached out and took hold of Sier's hand, giving it a warm squeeze, telling her that he would marry her all over again if he could. Kili too gave Tauriel a winning smile, recalling that it had only been less than a year since they too had spoken their vows.
When the two brides arrived at the front of the hall, their fathers leaned down to kiss them gently on the cheek, before placing their daughter's hands into those of Bain and Dunner. Bard could feel the lump in his throat forming as he gave his little Tilda one last loving look, then turned and walked over to where Sigrid waited, sitting down beside her. His oldest daughter gave his hand a comforting pat, before reaching over and lifting Théoden off his father's lap and placing him in Bard's. The happy blond-haired lad was the perfect distraction for the emotional father of the bride.
Bain and Dunner - who were now grinning from ear to ear and looking much calmer than they had before - escorted Brenna and Tilda to stand before the magistrate. A hush fell over the room as he began to speak the ancient words that bonded a man and woman…or in this case two men and two women…together in matrimony. When Bard was called upon to stand and speak his consent to giving away his daughter, he had to clear his throat a few times before he could get the words out. And though it was not required, he also gave his full approval over his son's choice in brides as well.
When the ceremony was concluded, and the two couples were encouraged to seal their union with a kiss, the whole room broke out in a cheer of joy, but none so much as Bard. He truly was happy for his children…all of them.
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Fili and Kili were among the first to congratulate Tilda and Dunner at the reception, the two of them taking far more credit than was deserved in getting the young couple together.
"Take good care of her, Dunner," Fili warned, patting his vest suggestively – knowing Dunner understood that was where he kept at least one of his hidden blades. "Tilda is like a little sister to us, and you know how protective dwarves are over family."
"I will endeavor to never disappoint you, Prince Fili," Dunner assured him.
"I think you should make sure you never disappoint Tilda," Kili argued good-naturedly. "Do that, and everything will be well between us."
"That is something I do not need any further urging to do," Dunner laughed, looking down at his blushing bride who was clinging to his arm. "For she will be the first thought in my mind when I wake, and the last one to cross my thoughts as I fall asleep."
"And I will be thinking of him and his happiness all the waking hours in-between," Tilda laughed. She then turned to Fili and Kili, giving them both a warning look. "But don't think for one moment that I've fully forgiven you for threatening Dunner all those months ago. I'm perfectly capable of taking care of myself, dear friends, and don't you ever forget it."
"Oh, no…we are fully aware of your capabilities, Princess," Kili laughed, holding up his hands in defense.
"Trust me, we know better than to ever cross you! I only hope Dunner is just as wise." Fili gave them both a wink and a smile, before turning his attention to the other groom. "And you, Bain," Fili continued, gripping the prince of Dale by the forearm in a gesture of admiration. "I must say, you have come a long way from the raggedy lad we first met in Laketown."
"A raggedy lad?" Bain scoffed. "Says the dwarf who came crawling out of our toilet." This caused everyone standing around to laugh…even Fili and Kili.
"Yes, yes," Fili nodded, taking the ribbing in stride. "But, now just look at you…a prince and a husband!"
"Well, you know he wouldn't be here today if it weren't for me," Kili stated, looking overly proud of himself.
"Oh…and please tell me why that is, Kili." Bain asked, confused by his friends claim.
"Well, it was at my wedding last year that you and Brenna finally went public with your affections," Kili reasoned. "Obviously, it was all the love and happiness you saw between Tauriel and I that prompted you to speak up."
"While I will admit that it was at your wedding this took place," Bard interjected. "It was I who was the one who pushed both my children into making a public proclamation of love…not you."
"What?" Kili huffed, looking more than a bit disappointed by this news. "And here I was, all set to give up my position as prince and become a match-maker!"
"Sorry, little brother," Fili laughed, slapping him on the back. "Probably not the best vocation for you, it would seem."
This caused all present to laugh good-naturedly, while Kili continued to pout.
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As the evening grew late, and the two happy couples made ready to leave, all their loved ones gathered round to wish them well. Thranduil made sure to pay his respects to Bain and Tilda before he retired for the evening, saying that the celebration was well worth the effort to attend. He also gave Dis his compliments on the fine decorations and extravagant reception.
Bain, being the crown prince, and next in line for the throne, was happy to remain within the royal house and live there with his new bride. They of course had a private wing set aside for them, so as not to be disturbed. However, Tilda, being the strong willed woman she was, insisted that she and Dunner have a home of their own for at least the first year of their marriage. The young princess explained that she wanted to cook and clean for her husband herself, and not rely on the servants who worked at her father's home. Thus, a small cottage had been built not too far away, giving the young couple all the privacy they desired.
As Bard and the others stood at the door, waving and calling out their farewells, Bain and Brenna, as well as Tilda and Dunner, disappeared into the night.
"I will more than likely see Bain in the next few days," Bard mused, rubbing his chin. "He is a prince with duties, after all. But Tilda…she said I would be lucky if I saw either one of them in a month."
"That sounds like Tilda," Sigrid laughed. She then wrapped her hands around her father's arm and leaned her head on his shoulder. "But look at it this way, Da. You're not losing a son and daughter…you are gaining another set of them!"
"True," Bard chuckled. "Still, with all my little ones now grown with families of their own, what am I to do?"
"Rule Dale," Thorin spoke up. "And enjoy your grandchildren!"
"Aye, that I can do!" Bard nodded with a wide smile. He then looked over at their friends from Erebor. "I am truly grateful for all you have done in making this day a success. But especially you, Dis, I could not have done it without you."
"You are most welcome, King Bard," the dam assured him, a tired smile on her lovely face. "It was my pleasure. You and your kin have done so much for my family, it was the least I could do to repay you for your kindness."
"If you are too tired to travel home this evening, you know you are all welcome to stay at the royal house," Bard offered. "We have plenty of room."
"We thank you for the offer, but I am quite looking forward to sleeping in my own bed and not rising till midday tomorrow," Dis chuckled. "As I encourage you to do as well. You have earned it, Bard."
"You know…I just might take you up on that," he laughed, suddenly feeling quite weary. "It is not every day a man marries off two of his children in one shot."
"And thank Mahal for that!" Thorin laughed, slapping Bard on the back.
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So it was that the caravan of ponies and wagons carrying the dwarves of Erebor arrived at the main gates late in the evening. The children were sacked out in the back of the wagon, while Dis rode up front with Flinn who managed the team. Everyone had enjoyed themselves immensely, and couldn't be happier for the prince and princess of Dale and their new mates. Yet, all talk about the weddings were quickly halted when Dis, who had just been helped down from the wagon by Flinn, let out a startled cry.
"What is it, my love?" her worried husband demanded, his eyes full of fear as he watched her bend forward and grasp her stomach. "What's wrong?"
"The baby, Flinn!" she moaned, grabbing hold of his arm in a vice-like grip. "The baby is coming…now!"
"Now?" he cried out, his tone one of pure shock. "It…it can't come now! It is too soon!"
"Babies don't give a hoot about time schedules," Marigold insisted, fully aware of how unpredictable labor could be. Handing Raina over to Thorin, she moved to Dis' side and placed her hand on her lower back. "Does it hurt here?"
"Aye, like Mahal's hammer is striking me over and over!" she said though gritted teeth. "And my pains are coming very close together now."
"Now?" Flinn asked, his eyes narrowing in suspicion and anger. "What do you mean now? How long have they been going on?"
"I would say the past three or four hours…maybe more," she revealed, at least having the decency to look apologetic as her husband's face paled.
"WHAT?" he hollered. "You've been in labor for hours and you didn't say anything? What's wrong with you?"
"I didn't want to disrupt the wedding," Dis explained. "There was so much to do and I didn't want to let Bard down." When it looked like Flinn was going to protest further, she held up her hand. "Might we argue about this all later? Because right now I would truly love to lay down and birth this babe."
"Of course!" Flinn's anger melted away in an instant, scooping up his wife as he, and all the others who were not packing sleeping children, hurried towards the healing halls.
"Well, I have to give Dis credit," Dwalin mumbled as Thorin and Marigold handed Raina and Rose over to Bergie's competent care, before racing after Flinn and Dis. "Our princess sure knows how to cap off an evening!"
Yep, that Dis, always the life of the party. ha ha.
I hope no one was too disappointed that I did not go into more detail with the weddings in Dale. I'm trying to get to the really important dwarf stuff, while touching on things here and there. Bain and Tilda are both deliriously happy...I promise.
Fili, you and Kili need to behave more in public...really, scaring the poor grooms like that? Not cool.
Ok...on to baby time!
Guest Reviews:
Feu d'Argent: Yep, I think everyone guessed that Flinn and Dis would be having a new little one. ha ha. Tauriel is worried she won't get pregnant...but I am not, since I kind of have the inside track on that. ha ha. Well...if you staked your claim on Flinn, you might have a while till he is of age...like seventy years! He is packing his overnight bag as we speak, heading your way to be your support for your presentation. Although, he says he only knows Western and Khuzdul...so he won't be much help with French. Thanks again for the kind words. They are appreciated.
abc: Yes, having a baby at Dis' age is a bit risky, but she is of the Durin line and she is strong. As for a boy or a girl...you will have to wait and see next chapter. Any reason to throw a party and serve cake is fine with the dwarflings. ha ha. Yep, it sucks to wait for things you want, but it builds character and makes you appreciate them all the more when they do arrive. Flinn and Frerin BETTER behave! Thanks
Aranel Mereneth: Thorin is a cool brother and uncle. we will keep him. Dis is his baby sister, of course he is highly protective of her. Any baby will be spoiled by Fili, Kili and Flinn...they will be so excited no matter what it is. Where did you come up with the name Sigdis? I like Siggy, but I still am not sure what prompted that name. Thanks.