Actually Thorin didn't want to let her go, since he was afraid she was the umpteenth illusion. Still Alyssae called up so many feelings he didn't believe his mind was capable of creating this all by itself. He had the feeling he had received a second chance to live. That he might start all over again. And this beginning, by which his lips were blended with those of the elf princess before he could even say a word, was a welcome surprise, directly pushing all the pain to the background.

Despite everything, he felt very uncomfortable under the spectating looks of his men, and above all the fiance of Alyssae, whom he didn't even dared to look at. Thorin had no idea why the elf had saved his life, because he knew he would have done nothing to help him. He had even thrown a vase at his head, because he could no longer see him with Alyssae!

He owed him everything, but his first expression of thankfulness was kissing his fiance right under his nose. His eyes were aimed at his men, instead of Thranduin, but some of their faces alarmed him as well. Fili had turned his face away, Gloin snored resentfully and Balin seemed disappointed, by which he wondered if he had made a mistake again.

"What did Thranduil say?' Thranduin broke the exiting silence. His face didn't show his feelings and he only looked at Alyssae.

"He will kill us if we ever enter his kingdom again."

"Then it might be better if we go," Tauriel said softly.

Thorin looked aside annoyed, to the elf who was standing next to Kili. He looked questioning at his nephew.

"She's coming with us."

For a moment he was perplexed by this announcement. He understood he couldn't send away Thranduin, but there was no reason why another elf would come with them.

"Of course," Gloin sniveled. "Well lads, should we find ourselves a pretty elf too?"

Dori and Ori made indignant sounds as well and Thorin sighed. He did understand their reaction, since it had taken a lot of time before he trusted Alyssae. Still Tauriel was different. She was a captain and was close to Thranduil.

"Tauriel belongs here, Kili," he sighed.

"Who are you to decide where she belongs? You of all people should know why she wants to leave this sick place. Who wants to live here, with such an insane king?"

Alyssae took his hand. "Tauriel can always come with me to Chyndall, but don't leave her behind."

Thorin sighed again, but agreed. He wouldn't consider leaving Alyssae behind and Kili had probably came to the same decision.

Alyssae let go of his hand. "I will get my clothes so that we can leave."

He nodded and rather wanted to go with her, so he knew nobody would hurt her, but she had already survived a meeting with Thranduil. Furthermore he didn't want his men to get even more irritated. It was probably for the best if he didn't seek a rapprochement with her, but he doubted he would succeed, knowing their time together was limited. On the one hand he believed he had the right to do whatever he wanted, but on the other hand there were only a few men who were loyal to him and he didn't want to put their loyalty at stake.

It didn't take long before Alyssae returned with the few possessions she had. She showed him a smile that warmed his heart and he wanted to pull her in his arms again, but he fought the longing and walked towards the gate, where some elves were stationed.

Thorin didn't even look at them, but Alyssae and Thranduin thanked them for their hospitality. There however was one man that kept staying on the road, whom Thorin recognized as the son of Thranduil. His eyes were aimed at Tauriel.

"Father ordered you can't leave the city."

Thorin's eyes flashed aside, to the female elf, who became pale.

"Does he want to keep me here as a prisoner?" she asked in shock.

"I know my father made mistakes," the elf sighed, "but you belong here, with us. We need you!" He took a deep breath. "He will send men after you as you leave without his permission and I'm afraid he won't let you walk free any longer." He swallowed and looked at Kili. "Nor will he."

Tears jumped in Tauriel's eyes, but his words made her change her mind immediately.

"Then I will obey and stay here."

Kili shook his head, but Tauriel was determined.

"I don't want to burden you with more trouble." She stroked Kili's face and kissed his lips, by which Thorin turned away his face embarrassed.