Hey guys! I hope you are all enjoying the story thus far, thank you so much for reading, and the reviews! Hope you enjoy:)
Ailyn sat up in her bed of her newly gifted chambers as the mountain slept. Her mind wandered beyond her room, back to the discussion with Dain. Then further back to the battle. Although the memories only came back in flashes, a cold shiver ran down her spine at the mere thought of them. She had fought battles beside her kin before, although not every Dwarf and human approved of a Dwarrowdam fighting when they had lived in the Blue Mountains. But that had not stopped her. Even now she could recall most of her past battles, none had been as intense as the battle for the mountain. But that did not mean they were less terrifying. Although she had been trained from a young age, whenever the the battle began, her palms would begin to sweat, and her skin heat up. But that all fell away on the battlefield. She had no time for such fears, for her mind was set upon defending her family. Fili and herself never letting Kili out of their sight, if they could indeed help it. Soon, Dwarfs, and the races of men had called the younger Durins a force to be reckoned with on the battlefield, simply for the strength they held together, and the passion in which they defend one another. It would not be wise to cross them in such a fury. But now it was a different story. They were wounded, weak. Broken even, with Thorin unconscious. They had no leader, and Dain was certainly not helping the situation.
Ailyn frowned. The way Dain had talked to Fili and Balin before bothered her still. While Dain was indeed their cousin, Ailyn, Fili, and Kili did not know him. When Smaug took Erebor, Dain offered little to no aid, and had never made an effort to save the Dwarves, except for a few times when he sent some funds to the Blue Mountains after an Orc raid. Of course, he had also shown no interest in helping her father reclaim Erebor, until he had the Arkenstone in his grasp. Only this coaxed Dain from his throne of the Iron Hills. That, and the promise of payment. Now he seemed to think that Erebor was his for the taking. A spark of anger began to light in Ailyn's chest. She had never been proud of her anger. But it was something she had received from her father. His simmering anger that he kept hidden away for years. But it was her temper that she had worked on controlling for so many years. She had learned quite well to handle it, as it was something she had never liked nor wanted. Whether it was the trouble it had gotten her into when she was small, and the shame she had felt when she yelled. But she also hated where she got such a trait.
Her mother. The first thing Ailyn realised about mothers, was that she did not have one.
She had her Aunt Dis of course, but she quickly learned that it was not the same thing. She did not mind at first, for she loved her Aunt dearly and was completely content with the company of her father. But slowly she realized the odd looks she would receive passing through the market. Her mother was not supposed to leave. Many thought it disrespectful, and saw Ailyn as a product of mistake, causing her own mother to flee. That she had not been raised correctly with just her father, disapproving of her training in combat, and finding fault with the fact that she never wore, or had much interest in wearing dresses. In truth, Ailyn always found dresses constricting, not being able to fight, or keep up with her cousins when they would run and play. But one day she had returned home crying one afternoon from being teased by a few older boys, Thorin had taken his daughter into his arms and assured her that her mother leaving was not Ailyn's fault, and that she should not pay attention to such talk. For he loved her, and as did the rest of her kin. She had soon gotten used to the fact that she had no mother, she had come to the conclusion that her mother's departure was indeed for the best. Casting the thought to the back of her mind, Ailyn stood stiffly and began to wander around the room. A wardrobe sat on the far wall with a vanity and chair of deep rich oak on the other side with a chair. There was a second door near the wardrobe, and a chest at the end of her bed, opposite of a roaring fireplace. Despite the room being hers, she did not feel at home.
Ignoring Oin's orders Ailyn took to once more venturing through the mountain. Everything was silent now, all the Dwarves asleep in their beds. More lanterns were lit, glittering off the stone. The further she walked the more she recognized where her feet were taking her. Silently her hands pushed one side of the double doors open. Her eyes had to adjust to the dimly lit room, the only source of light being from the hearth, and a small candle placed upon a desk.
"Ailyn." Balin looked up, surprised to see the Dwarrowdam.
"I could not sleep." Ailyn moved further into the room, "How is he?" She glanced at her father before walking in front of the desk Balin was working at. Stacks of paper piled high. Balin let out a regretful sigh before shaking his head, "no change yet, Lassie." Ailyn nodded firmly before taking a seat near the table.
"What are you working on?" She asked peering at the papers.
"Looking at old documents that Thror had. Laws that were held, finances." Balin answered.
"Do you think Dain will change his mind about not repaying the people of Dale?" Ailyn spoke after a few moments of silence.
"At the moment? No." Balin shook his head before grabbing a new stack of papers. He continued when Ailyn frowned. "Keep in mind Lassie, Dain has not been exposed to the other races such as we have. He was safe when Erebor was taken. He had no need to live, bargain, work with the races of men. I have reason to believe he has very little tolerance."
"But Balin…we cannot go back on our word." Ailyn spoke, "Surely you can do something, or Fili, since he is the eldest of us three."
"I wish we could but…" Balin looked at her, "For now all we can do is bide our time. Dain has the numbers to overpower us." Ailyn fell silent for a while before whispering softly, "Who has keys to the Royal Treasuries?" Balin eyed her carefully from over his spectacles. "Only a few. All the gold has been pushed into several rooms to the back of the mountain." Ailyn nodded, "Does Dain?"
"No," Balin nodded assuredly, "he does no reach that far…yet."
"But he will not allow for funds to be given to Dale?"
"If we tried, I have an understanding that his guards will stop us." Balin explained, "But pay no mind to that now Lassie. You should be resting." Ailyn waved her hand, "I am fine."
"No, Ailyn." Balin stood and walked towards the doors, opening one side, "You are tired. Your father would want you to sleep. Make sure you get some. I shall be in my quarters if you have need of me." With a soft nod he left the room, closing the door. Ailyn turned towards her father laying motionless on the bed except for the steady rise and fall of his chest. Quietly she crept towards the bed inspecting Thorin. After a moment, she placed a cool cloth on his forehead. He stirred slightly but nothing more. Ailyn thought of Balin's words, but her gut would not let her leave her father's side. Gently making sure not to disturb the sleeping Dwarf, Ailyn brought over a blanket and chair before settling it next to the bed. Sinking into the chair she suddenly felt cold as she looked at her father. Tears ran down her cheeks silently as a weight came crashing down upon her chest.
"Don't leave me…" She choked out quietly, "You don't get to leave Adad…"
XXX
The next morning, after waking with red eyes and wet cheeks, she retreated back to her room to change and cleaned herself up. Ailyn then got a few pieces of food from the kitchens, saying a good morning to Bombur before disappearing to find her cousins.
"What are you reading?" Ailyn asked as she entered Fili's room. She noticed the lack of her raven haired cousin, "Where is Kili?"
"Accounts of Erebor during past reigns." Fili looked up at her. "Kili is trying to convince the others to let him help with the reconstruction of Erebor. Where have you been?"
"With Adad." Ailyn glanced around Fili's room. Already it began to resemble her older cousin. Books were placed neatly on a desk, while his weapons were displayed on a wall with a golden fur coat, coals burning in the hearth.
"Has there been any change?" Fili questioned as Ailyn sat on his bed. She shook her head slowly, "But I have no doubt Oin will think of something. He always does." She spoke confidently, hoping to persuade herself.
"That he does." Fili leaned back in the chair with a long sigh. Ailyn could see that her cousin was worried, whether it be the pressure of restoring Erebor, or that of his Uncle's health. Due to his silence and his reach for his pipe, she came to the conclusion that is was both. Fili was the oldest of herself and Kili, and had always carried a weight upon his shoulders. H was always working to become a great warrior to defend his people. To please his Uncle and make his mother proud. Of course, Kili and Ailyn herself has always strived to do the same, but Ailyn could always see the difference between the golden haired Dwarf and his raven haired brother. There were times as they got older, Thorin would take Fili with him to meetings, while Kili would wander around by himself or train with Dwalin. Ailyn herself would often sit in on many of her father's meetings, listen to him when he would advise and tell stories. It was never said who would inherit the throne definitely, Fili being the nephew of Thorin, and the eldest was of course a candidate. But Ailyn was the daughter of Thorin, his only child. Proving that she could fight alongside her father gained her favors as a future ruler of the Longbeards. Then there was the subject of a husband for Ailyn. Being a Dwarrowdam, and the daughter of Thorin Oakenshield, the subject had always been in the back of her mind. To her luck and relief no one had said much to her about it when they had lived in the Blue Mountains; giving Ailyn confidence that perhaps she was free to choose her own fate as her Aunt had. But now that they were back at Erebor, she was beginning to rethink that idea.
"How are you feeling?" Ailyn asked, breaking the silence and coming back from her thoughts. Fili thought for a moment, "Tired." He sat up more and cleared his throat. "But fine. I'll be able to get around more in the next few days. I plan to take a trip down to Dale."
"I'll come with you." Ailyn spoke quickly, "I'd like to see how they are getting on." Fili nodded. "Alright. I'll let you know when I plan to go. For now," Fili pulled the book into his lap, "I shall be here."
"I shall wander to the library." Ailyn stood and went to the door, "we should probably make sure Kee doesn't hurt himself."
Fili let out a chuckle, "When have those plans ever worked?"
He glanced over his shoulder. Ailyn smiled and shook her head, "Almost never."
With one last goodbye, Ailyn left her cousin to his studies while she herself headed off towards the Library. She knew it was in the east of the mountain, but still had to check several rooms before finding the right one. Stepping into the enormous and slightly chilly room, Ailyn's mouth immediately opened in shock and awe. While the walls of the room were very much like the rest of the mountain, books on shelves piled high to the ceiling. Despite most of the books being on the floor with scattered papers, some ruined and ripped, while others seemed still salvageable, Ailyn could tell that in its prime, the collection of books was one to admire. Doing her best not to step on too many of the books, Ailyn continued further into the room, soon finding three fires lit in the hearth hoping to warm the room. Soft rustling caught Ailyn's attention coming from the back of the room. Quietly her right hand went to the dagger at her side before she began to inch towards the back of the room. Keeping her feet quiet, she strained her neck to look past the book shelves, fearing to see an enemy of some sort, but her dagger was quickly sheathed as she recognizes a small figure as a Dwarf.
"Hello, Ailyn." She stepped forward as the young Dwarf said her name, "hello, Ori." She smiled lightly, moving over to him, "What are you doing here?" Her eyes wandered the table, looking at the books and papers scattered about.
"Trying," he cleared his throat, "trying to salvage what I can. In hopes to learn anything I can to help your father."
Ailyn swallowed the dryness of her throat, "And have you? Found anything?"
Ori looked at her regetably before shaking her head, "not yet." She nodded silently before taking a seat near the table.
"I did, however, find a few things on new remedies for Oin." Ori pointed to a stack of frailed papers.
"May I?" Ailyn asked as she scooted her chair closer. With a nod from Ori she began to sift through the papers, reading all that she could. With her other hand she began to twirl her dagger in her fingers.
"You still carry a weapon? Even in the mountain? Where we are safe." Ori noted, watching her dagger. Ailyn glanced at him before looking to the weapon in her hand, "Force of habit I suppose. I've done it for so many years…" She shrugged.
"You haven't started training again have you?" Ori asked and Ailyn hook her head, "No. I am sure Dwalin and Oin will not permit it. To be honest, I am still quite sore."
"You did only wake a few days ago." Ori pointed out as he kept his eyes on a piece of paper. Ailyn nodded smiling lightly before the doors to the library open and a out of breath Bofur came scurrying over. "Ailyn-" he took in a deep breath.
The young Durin stood quickly, refusing to flinch at the pain in her side from the abrupt action.
"Bofur,what is it?" She asked quickly, her mind racing to conclusions, one of them would rather not think about.
"Dain," He took in another deep breath, "and Bard. Great. Hall." He pointed to the door. Cursing under her breath, Ailyn took off as quickly as she could towards the Great hall.
XXX
Fili stood a ways away from the large doors of the Great Hall with his arms crossed over his chest. He could hear the arguing from within the walls but he could not enter, much to his disdain. One reason he could not enter was that there were two Iron Hill Dwarven guards standing at attention in full armor, who had promptly told him that he was not to enter. Another reason as to why he stood on the outside of the room, rather inside of it, was that it had taken much of his energy to go down the stairs in the mountain with his leg, and he was not sure that if he entered he would be able to give Bard the backing he needed and not make things worse. Bofur had been standing with him, but as soon as the shouting started he had run to get another Dwarf, in search of his brother, cousin or Balin. Fili thought that if things turned sour, there might also be need of Dwalin, but he hoped the situation would not have need of such force.
The golden hair dwarf turned his head to the left as he heard quick footsteps coming down the stairs. He let out a breath of relief as Ailyn rushed over to him.
"What is happening?" She asked urgently as she stood next to him, "Bofur said something about Bard?"
Fili nodded with a sigh, "Nori came and got me a few moments ago, saying that he had seen Bard enter the mountain. From what he told me, Bard had come to negotiate with us, but Dain got to him first, and now…" Fili motioned to the doors.
"Why are we not inside?" Ailyn looked over the guards.
"They stopped me when I first tried." Fili shook his head, "Dain gave orders to not be disturbed. I would have tried harder but…" Fili frowned his eyes dimmed, as he lowered his voice, "I am not completely recovered, and I am afraid that the venture down here was tiring."
"Where is Balin?" Ailyn questioned softly.
"With Oin, the last I heard." Fili continued, "They think they might have found something to help Thorin." Ailyn looked at him, hope sparking in her.
"Is the mountain on fire yet?" Kili called jogging over to them from the right.
"Where did you come from?" Fili looked at his brother, then behind him from where he had just come from.
"The village ruins. Nori came and got me." Kili answered stopping beside his brother.
"I just saw Nori on the upper levels when Bofur came to get me." Ailyn spoke furrowing her brow, "How did he get to you?"
Kili gave a shrug. "I was in the village and he found me. I am helping clean it up." He continued before the other two could open their mouths, "Don't worry, I am not lifting anything heavy. Oin gave me permission to help." He held up his hands, "So, what is going on? Nori just told me Bard and Dain are in the same room."
Just as he asked a loud crash came from the hall followed by the cursing of Dain. Kili sucked in air sharply, "Well not that good then."
Ailyn took a few steps forward but stopped when the doors flung outward, and Bard came out in a furry followed by Dain yelling and laughing in Dwarven.
"Bard!" The three Durins called in unison as Bard almost passed them without notice. The king of Dale turned on his heel, looking upon the three his gaze immediately calmed as he walked over to them.
"There you three are." Bard let out a breath, "I was asking for you. But then Ironfoot trapped me in there." His tone held distaste.
"What are you here for?" Fili questioned. Bard glanced at the Dwarves by the door before stepping closer and lowering his voice, "Dale needs the funds we were promised." He spoke urgently, "They have not been sent. People are starving. We need help."
"And Dain refused, no doubt." Ailyn shook her head in disapproval.
"Aye, he did. Several times. He will not give any aid!" Bard roared before lowering his voice, "Is Thorin still unconscious?"
The three young Durin's nodded solemnly.
"He is," Ailyn answered, "and Dain seems to have made himself at home."
"Dale needs the provisions promised by the mountain." Bard spoke again, "The Elves only give so much. King Thranduil has locked himself away to tend to his kin."
"You'll get them." Fili answered confidently with a stern nod, "My uncle gave his word, and we," he looked at Kili and Ailyn, "we will keep it for him."
"What of Dain?" Bard questioned raising a brow.
"Pay him no mind." Ailyn whispered as not to let the guards hear her, "What if we come down the Dale now?" She looked to her cousins and they both nodded. "Get a look at what you all need, and the quantity?"
"Your presence would be much appreciated." Bard nodded in thanks, "Now, if you will excuse me, I have to leave this mountain." His tone became grim again before taking his leave as Dain strode towards the young Durins.
"What are ye' three doin' with the like of him?" Dain asked gruffly, staring suspiciously at them.
"Talking." Kili answered shortly. Dain let out a huff of disapproval, "I would advise against it young prince. We have no need to correspond with the likes of him and his kind."
"We have a deal with them, Dain." Fili spoke sternly, but certainly not enough to enrage the Dwarf lord. He let out a scoff which turned into a hearty laugh, "Nay, have no worry of that lad. I've taken care of it. We don't owe, 'em nothing." He clapped Fili on the shoulder as if they had just won a great victory.
"What do you mean?" Ailyn asked causing Dain to look over at her, "We had a deal with the people of Lake Town. Once we reclaimed the mountain we would-"
"But did ye?" Dain stopped her, the voice becoming more stern, "Nay. Thorin recalled the deal, and a good thing too. Best to let it be."
"But he should not have." Ailyn spoke again despite Dain's warning, "in truth it wasn't even truly him. It was the gold-sickness."
"Are ye speakin' against ya father now?" Dain glared at the Darrowdam, "that is somethin' ye should not do."
He stared at her for a moment longer before looking at all three of them, "Now, ya three should best forget what was promised. It is best to just leave things be." He smiled smugly, "The three of ya are too young to truly understand such things."
Again he clapped Fili on the shoulder, causing him go ridgid with pain.
"You three should stay in the mountain. Don't venture out." Dain took no notice of the prince before he walked away, calling for guards to follow. Ailyn and Kili glanced at Fili as Dain disappeared up a set of stairs.
"Get your cloaks." Fili answered, watching Dain walk away, "I'll talk to Balin. Try to stay out of sight of Dain."
XXX
"Are you sure you can make it down there?" Kili asked as the two brothers stood outside the mountain. He glanced at Fili but found him staring in a different direction. Kili followed his gaze and saw Raven Hill. He cringed as memories came back in flashes. He said his brothers name again, nudging him, "Fee."
"Hm?" Fili turned his attention back to his younger brother, "Sorry, I wasn't listening."
"You know that's usually my job." Kili smiled, hoping to lift his brother spirits, before nodding towards a path down to Dale, "Are you going to be able to make it down to Dale?"
"Yes." Fili nodded, "I'll be fine. Dale is a lot closer than Lake Town." Fili looked at the trail as he thought about his leg. Oin has said he should try and walk on it a bit. A trip down to Dale might be more that what Oin had meant, but at least all three of them would be getting fresh air. Besides, Balin had given them permission. After much, much persuading.
"Ready?" Ailyn asked as she walked over, tightening her dark blue cloak around herself. Kili and Fili nodded before they began their descent towards Dale.
"The wind is getting colder, do you think it will snow again?" Kili asked aloud as he stared at the sky. Dark grey clouds looming over head, "Maybe more this time than the last."
"Did it snow when you were awake?" Ailyn questioned glancing at her cousin following his gaze.
"Only a bit." Kili shrugged before looking ahead of him again. The three had decided to towards Dale on a path to the right of the mountain, staying away from Raven Hill. It was an unspoken truth between the three that neither of them wanted anything more to do with the icy hills. Fili kept quiet as the other two talked, exchanging opinions on what should be done for Dale. While normally Fili would have joined his, he kept his mouth shut, and his eyes on alert. They were travelling on a path a bit near a forest that was to the right of the mountains. During the battle, the Elves, Men, and Dwarves had whipped out a large portion of the Orcs. Despite that, a nagging in the back of his mind would not let him think that they were all gone. Why would they be?
"Fili." Ailyn said again for the third time, causing Fili to turn his head towards her in question. "Are you alright?" She asked, "You seem very…"
"Distracted," Kili jumped in, "You didn't hear anything I said up at the mountain."
"Are you feeling alright?" Ailyn looked at him with concern.
"I'm fine," Fili answered as they began to descend down a hill before ending up at a rebuilt wooden bridge, "Just thinking."
"About what?" Kili asked as he waved to a guard on sentry duty.
"Everything." Fili muttered as they walked into Dale. They were immediately greeted by yells, and sounds of moving carts, hammers, and anvils. The three stood and watched for a moment as people ran back and forth shouting; children ran after their parents, laughing and playing with one another.
"You three came." Bard appeared holding a bucket of tools, "I didn't think you would be able to leave the mountain." He moved as a cart came by.
"Well, we have." Fili nodded, "What are your main needs here?"
"Food, supplies to rebuild." Bard waved them to follow as he moved towards the center of the town, "We have little to nothing, and the battle did not help. We have not even begun rebuilding the walls. My main concern has been the houses. The winter will soon be upon us."
"You need gold to allow for trade with other towns." Ailyn spoke looking around, "Sadly, Erebor does not have many trees, but if we can we could lend stone and tools, food."
"What about Dain?" Bard turned towards the three as he plopped the tools onto a bench in front of an old man, "He did not seem so generous."
"It isn't Dain's mountain." Kili answered, "Balin can give the okay, along with Fili." He nodded towards his brother who nodded, "We can try our best. Food will not be a problem, though. Dain brought supplies with him, and Bombur has filled the kitchens, he is in charge of it."
"Do you think it would work?" Bard looked at the three.
"It wouldn't hurt to try." Ailyn answered, watching as the people huddled together against a harsh wind that blew through.
XXX
"Should you not try asking Dain again?" Bofur questioned as the company sat around a large wood table in the kitchens as Bombur passed out soup.
"You didn't hear him in the meeting hall, Bofur," Fili shook his head, "there is no way he would listen. He does not like the men of Dale."
"So your plan is to steal from Dain IronFoot?" Dori looked at the three young Durins.
"We aren't stealing." Ailyn answered, "Bombur said we can take things from the kitchens. We just aren't planning on…telling Dain. Right away."
"And do you think he will just forgive that you went behind his back when he does find out?" Balin spoke gently, "He will not be happy." Fili and Ailyn shared a look while Kili continued to eat his soup and bread as if he had not been fed in days.
"They have nothing, Balin." Ailyn spoke gently, "All of them cold and tired. Right now, I do not give a damn about Dain and his threats. My father swore on his honor."
"Aye, Lassie." Balin nodded in understanding, "Perhaps, I can keep Dain busy for a bit to let you three get supplies down to Dale." Balin began to think of ways to keep the Dwarf busy. It would have to be something that held importance for sure. Balin knew well enough that only that would keep Dain Ironfoot interested. This sent the Dwarves at the table into a flurry of conversations. Ailyn watched and listened. From years of her childhood, she had found how important it was to listen to people around her. People she trusted of course. While she may be open to ideas and advice from the company, she was still a Dwarf; trust did not always come easily to her.
"The bottom south of the mountain still needs fixing." Nori spoke, "You could take him over there for a while. Say it demands his attention."
"That could work." Bofur replied, setting his spoon down, "There will be a small crew down there."
"That should no longer include him." Oin pointed at Kili, "You are not to be working yet."
"I was sweeping!" Kili exclaimed, "Surely it cannot be that bad."
"You could have ripped your stitches Laddie, or tired yourself out." Oin spoke in an stern tone, "You three may travel down to Dale with a wagon. Nori can help you." The grey haired Dwarf looked to his cousin who nodded.
"I'll help Bombur prepare the supplies." Bofur volunteered, and was greeted with thanks from Bombur.
"Will ya' be needing any coins and such?" Gloin asked, "I do not think that will be so easy to get past Dain." Gloin let out a sigh.
"Balin said he did not have access to the treasuries." Ailyn spoke looking up from her soup concerned.
"Does he?" Fili questioned looking from Balin and Gloin.
"He asked for access once Bard left." Balin alerted them "Gloin and I had luck holding him off, telling him we had no more keys. The rest have been lost or destroyed. I would not take from the treasures just yet."
"But we will deliver the food." Fili replied, "We should wait until the evening. To be safe." All the Dwarves nodded in agreement before going on to share stories for the rest of the meal.
XXX
"Are you sure you will be able to make it down to Dale a second time?" Ailyn asked as she watched how slowly her cousin walked up the stairs. She could see the stiffness in his limbs, and could have sworn he flinched a few times when moving.
"I'll be fine." Fili nodded, letting out a relieved breath, as the two finally reached the top. He let out a chuckle, "To think, I can barely go up the stairs, and Kili is already bounding after Dwalin, wanting to help, and train."
"That is partly because Kili does not know how to sit still." Ailyn grinned as the two turned a corner, "Just wait until Dis arrives, then I do not think Kili will be allowed to over-exert himself so much."
Fili nodded with a soft smile, "I cannot wait until she arrives. It has been to long. How are you faring?" He asked, changing the subject. At his words the throbbing in Ailyn's side became more apparent. She had managed to ignore it for most of the day, but now her body was growing more irritated with her moving around so much.
"Sore," she confessed, "but Oin said I was in no real danger of splitting my stitches. He simply asked, that when I am tired, I rest." Ailyn stopped as they reached Filis room, "You should rest too. We can meet in the kitchens later, before dinner probably." Fili nodded in agreement, "I'll be there." Ailyn smiled lightly before Fili entered his room, and she left towards hers.
Collapsing upon her bed, Ailyn let out a soft groan from the aching in her bones. After a while she turned to the side, grasping a book from the nightstand next to her bed. Settling on her back she pearched her feet upon the headboard. Flipping through the book she began to read.
XXX
Ailyn shot up from sleep with a loud gasp. Knocking the book onto the floor, she felt her heart racing, blood pounding in her ears. Gulping in air, Ailyn looked around, relieved to see herself safe in her room. She jumped as someone knocked upon the door to her room.
"Ailyn?" Kili's voice called, "Are you ready?"
"Yes. You can come in." Ailyn scrambled to stand up, placing the book back on the nightstand before calming her tousled hair.
"Were you sleeping?" Kili asked as he saw Ailyn went to a bowl of water, splashing her face, before drying herself with a towel.
"No." Ailyn shook her head before pausing briefly, "Well, yes. But you didn't wake me, it's alright."
"You had a nightmare, didn't you." Kili leaned on the door a bit, looking at his cousin. Ailyn noticed how he stared and found that there was no point in trying to deny his statement.
"It was nothing." Ailyn answered before walking over to the large wardrobe in her room. Opening she began to gaze over the weapon hanging on the inside. Wrapping her favorite black leather belt around her waist, she pushed two daggers into the side of her belt.
"You always get jittery after you have one." Kili pushed, "It was of the battle for the mountain, wasn't it." The raven haired Dwarf stated more than asked.
"You have them too, don't you?" Ailyn asked as she pulled her boots on, "Does Fili?"
"Yes." Kili nodded, frowning, "He talks in his sleep sometimes…I think they can get pretty bad."
"He has fought more than you have, Kee." Ailyn stood and smiled at him softly, "Besides, everything affects people differently." The two took their leave of the room, and began their walk towards the kitchens.
"Do…do you have the same dream again and again?" Kili questioned carefully, "Or are they different?"
Ailyn thought carefully before answering, "Sometimes they are different. Other times, no…" She shook her head with a frown, as a shiver ran up her spine. Her mind ran over the dream again, drowning out whatever Kili had said next. This particular dream Ailyn only had once or twice, and she thanked Mahal for that. Nightmares had often haunted her, but the recent ones were much, much worse. They had resembled that of the Battle of The Five Armies, but had a much different outcome. An outcome that Ailyn wanted nothing to do with.
"Ailyn." Kili grabbed her shoulder gently, shaking her from her thoughts, "What has been the matter with you and Fili of late? It seems like the both of you are miles away."
"Sorry," she shook her head, "I don't mean to be...it's just that-" Ailyn stopped herself two Dwarves came down the hallway, proudly wearing IronHill armor.
"What are you two doing out this late?" One of them asked, stepping into the two Durins path.
"We were looking for Balin." Ailyn answered gently, "To see if there is any news of my father."
"It would be wise for the two of you to return to your rooms." The other Dwarf spoke, gaining Ailyn's attention. The first Dwarf was short and stocky with thick hair that seemed almost darker than Kilis. His beard was long past his middle, and braided into two sections. The second Dwarf was clearly taller, and had more of a muscular build, his hair was a crimson color that easily fell just above his shoulders loosely save for a few braids. His beard the same color but not as long, only covering his chin and cheekbones.
"Surly there is nothing that would harm us." Ailyn spoke politely, "the mountain is secure, and we would not venture where construction is going on."
The two Dwarfs shared a look before the shorter one opened his mouth, until Ailyn spoke before him.
"I thank you for your concern, my friends. But my cousin and I are fine from here." She smiled kindly before taking Kili's arm and walking around the two. Incoherent mumbles followed them as the two walked away.
"Is everything ready?" Ailyn asked stepping into the room, seeing Fili talking to Nori, while Bofur loaded the final supplies onto a cart.
"You three head down to lower levels of the mountain and go out there." She heard Nori say, "The guards should be changing by now, so you three can get out unseen."
"What about the cart?" Ailyn questioned stepping closer, "How will it get out?"
"I'll take it." Nori answered with confident, "I know a way out of the mountain through the lower levels, Dain won't see a thing." Ailyn nodded, as did Fili. Nori responded with a nod as well before he and Bofur began to push the cart from the room before heading left down the hall.
"Come on." Fili headed towards the door. Quietly the three Durins made their way to the east side of the mountain, using a side door Balin had suggested. Ailyn held her breath as Kili and Nori pushed the cart from the mountain, onto the rocky ground. She finally allowed herself to breathe with ease when they were well away from the mountain. Ailyn and Fili walked in front of the cart, Ailyn holding a lantern as the skies dimmed, while Fili rested his hand on the sword at his side. She noticed how her cousin's eyes darted from one place to another.
"Fili." Ailyn spoke softly gaining her older cousin attention, "do you see anything?"
"No." Fili shook his head.
"Bard, knew you were comin' right?" Nori questioned, "There are bound to be guards at the gates."
"He knows." Ailyn answered as the four neared the gates.
"Who goes there?!" A thick voice called brining the Dwarves to a halt.
"The heirs of Durin." Nori called back as man holding a torch walked closer. He looked over the three Durins before nodding his head, "Follow me." They did as they were told and quickly taken into the center of the town. Despite being night, many of the people that were in Dale were still awake. Soon enough the three were lead into the large lodging space, finding it packed with people. Several fires were lit and Bard was wandering around in a haze.
"King Bard!" The guard called raising his hand. Saying something to a young woman holding a small boy, Bard departed and made his way towards them. A tired smile spread across his face.
"Thank goodness you are here." He looked over the contains on the wagon, "These will do nicely." He turned to two more guards, "Pass this food out to people. Sparingly. Until we can get more."
"What is this?" Fili asked looking around. Ailyn glanced around as well, looking at the people huddled together.
"It was the best place to fortify against the cold." Bard answered, "But for the food, and supplies will help."
"I wish it could be more." Ailyn answered quietly, "But…Dain…" Her voice fell to a whisper as she stared at the people.
"I understand." Bard nodded, "How is Thorin?" He asked, gaining Ailyn's attention.
"No change." She answered in a solemn tone before carefully picking up a basket of bread, and began to pass out the food to the people. Bard looked back towards Fili.
"She has never seen him like this." Fili answered swallowing. "None of us have."
Bard studied the young prince for a moment before speaking carefully, "Have you given any thought to the rule of Erebor?"
Fili looked at him confused, "My uncle will-"
"Your uncle is unconscious and unwell." Bard spoke plainly, "I do not mean to sound unkind. But you three have a right to the throne."
"Thorin will take up the throne when he wakes. Until then, myself and the company shall keep it for him." Fili spoke firmly looking up at Bard. "Don't worry. Letting Erebor fall will be the very last thing I let happen." Seeming confident, Bard nodded and returned to helping the people in the room.
Ailyn looked up as her name was called, giving a few farewells as she joined her cousins and the four began their walk back to the mountain.
"Do you think he has found anything out?" Kili wondered aloud, "Dain?"
"Not if Balin as kept him busy." Fili answered, pushing the stone aside with the help of Nori. When the three finally reached the center of the mountain, a breath was let out in relief as everything was silent except for the light sound of hammers.
"Do you think there is still food in the kitchens?" Kili asked looking around for Nori, but finding him nowhere.
"Where does he go?" Kili turned in a circle, looking around.
"No idea." Fili chuckle lightly before sighing, "I need to sleep."
"I want to eat." Kili answered he took a few steps away, "Anyone coming?"
"I am going to check on Adad." Ailyn answered with a sorry look. Fili nodded before she left up a stairwell.
"I'm still hungry." Kili commented, making Fili chuckle, "I'll come with you." Kili grinned before racing off towards the kitchens. Fili chuckled again shaking his head at his brother, "I'll catch up."
Fili returned to his room, tossing his daggers onto the bed. Letting out a long breath, he almost jumped when a stern knock sounded upon his door. Cautiously, he wandered towards the door and opened it a crack to see who as behind it. His stomach hollowed out as Dain stood on the other side, glaring at him with arms crossed over his chest.
"Dain." Fili cleared his throat, opening the door more, "Wonderful to see you. Do you need anything?"
"Where have ye been?" Dain demanded, pushing the door open more and making his way into Fili's room, gazing around.
"What do you mean?" Fili shut his door before turning to the older Dwarf.
"Don't ye lie to me boy." Dain scoffed and turned back towards Fili, "I know ye went down ta Dale."
Fili nodded and folded his arms behind his back, "Then you should know that I thought it was the right choice."
Again Dain scoffed, "Have ye lost what sense you had?" He exclaimed taking a few steps towards Fili, "Now those...Lakemen will not stop asking for favors! Do you see what ye have done?!"
"I helped our allies." Fili answered. Dain shook his head, stepping up to the golden haired Dwarf, standing about a foot above him. "Ye disobeyed my orders boy! Sneakin' out of here! Tis' not how a king should behave!"
"In all respect." Fili answered in a firm tone making Dain harden his glare, but Fili ignored it holding his head higher, "I would rather be a good man, than a king."
Dain fell silent but his face had gone red and his chest was rising and falling faster. On his way to the door he turned back to the prince, "Ye three, shall not venture from this mountain without ye escort." Not giving Fili any chance to answer he shut the door with a slam.
XXX
Ailyn turned through the pages in the book she was balancing on her lap as she sat in a chair. The room was quiet save for Oin mumbling to himself from his desk. In truth Ailyn was about to nod off when a sudden cough sent goosebumps up her arms, making her jump. Her eyes immediately searched before falling on the figure in the bed. With a small gasp, casting the book to the ground, in seconds she was by her father's side. Her heart beat faster as Thorin's eyes slowly began to open.
"Oin!" She whispered urgently, waving him over. The older Dwarf bustled over before looking over at Thorin. He coughed a few more times before taking in a few deep breaths.
"Water." Oin ordered. Without missing a beat, Ailyn had poured water into a cup before handing it off to Oin. Slowly, he tilted Thorin's head with a second pillow before allowing him to drink the water. He laid back down, letting out a long breath.
"Where…" Thorin whispered his voice raspy and shaky, "Where are they?" He coughed, his eyes still closed.
"Go find Fili and Kili." Ailyn called to guard standing by the door, "With Dwalin and Balin. Now!" She snapped at the guard before he ran off.
"Ailyn…" Thorin tilted his head towards her, "Mizimith. Are you alright?" He asked in a whisper. Ailyn grinned and took his hand, nodding quickly, "Yes. Yes, I am alright."
"Fili, and Kili? The company?" He asked again, groaning when he moved.
"You," Ailyn took in a breath, "you cannot move too much, Adad. Everyone is…alright." Thorin studied his daughter for a moment, despite his mind being foggy he could see the lack of sleep in her eyes.
"You…" Thorin let out a long breath, "you are shaking, Mizimith." Gently he ran a thumb over her hand, "What is the matter?"
"I-I," Ailyn took in a deep breath to calm herself, "I thought you would not wake…" Thorin began to chuckle lightly, but it turned into a violent cough. Quickly Ailyn offered him more water from the cup, which he took gratefully. Thorin laid his head back down, shaking it slowly. "I would not leave you, Mizimith." He almost whispered. Glancing around, a lost look came upon his face as he began to cough.
"You must try not to move, Thorin." Oin urged, causing Thorin to fall still. Just then the doors burst open, Kili flying into the room followed by Fili, Dwalin, and Balin."
"Uncle!" Kili ran towards the bed, but slowed as he neared. Fili came to stand beside Ailyn with a small smile. Thorin smiled wider, looking at his nephews.
"I am glad to see you three." He looked at each of them, "Fili…are you," he began to cough, before letting out a wheezing breath, "are you alright? Kili?"
"We're alright, Uncle." Fili answered before sitting on the side of the bed. Kili did the same, "How are you feeling uncle?"
"Tired, Kili." He took a breath, "What is happening with the mountain? Dale?"
Ailyn and Fili shared a look before Fili looked back at his Thorin, "It is all going well Uncle. Nothing to worry about."
"Thank you, Fili." He smiled weakly before closing his eyes again.
"Adad?" Ailyn whispered after a moment, but Thorin no longer answered. Quickly she looked up to Oin her eyes wide and brimming with tears.
"It is his fever, Lassie." Oin answered, "He may wake a bit more, before he wakes completely." Ailyn nodded slowly before resting her head on the edge of the bed.
"We lied." She whispered.
"It was for the best." Fili answered resting his hand on her shoulder, "You should get some sleep Ailyn."
"I'll stay here." Ailyn looked at him, "Don't worry I'll be alright."
Waiting a moment, Fili nodded before motioning to Kili to follow. He wrapped his arm around his brother's shoulder as the two princes left the room. Again Ailyn set her head on the bed as tears ran down her cheeks. Slowly, she eventually fell into sleep.
"Why can I not forge, Adad?" Ailyn's small voice asked as she sat upon a bench in her fathers florge; her feet swinging beneath her as she watched her father instruct her old cousin on how to properly melt metal.
"Because, Mizimith," Thorin turned towards his daughter, "it is a job for Dwarves, not Darrowdams." He spoke as gently as he could to the young Dwarfling that had an eager look upon her face. Ailyn crossed her arms and frowned, her bottom lip sticking out. "That is not fair!"
Thorin chuckled at the protest of his daughter, and instructed Fili on how to cool a hot dagger. The Dwarven king made his way over to the young Dwarfling, "I am afraid life is not fair, Mizimith." Ailyn looked up at her father.
"I could do it!" She stood up on the bench, stretching to gain height upon her father, but barely coming up to above his waist. Thorin smiled down at the Dwarfling and her stubbornness. His smile fell when he heard screams coming from outside of the forge. Fili immediately stopped what he was doing and looked to his uncle, eyes wide with fear. Ailyn grabbed her father's hand, whimpering in fear.
"Fili, come. Now." Thorin demanded, reaching his hand to his nephew before scooping up Ailyn in his other.
"What is happening, Adad?" Ailyn whispered as she clung to her father's shirt. More screams rang out, followed by crashes and loud snarls.
"It is alright, Mizimith." Thorin whispered as he set Ailyn down in a closet of brooms in the back of the forge, putting Fili beside her, "You two need to stay in here. Stay quiet." Thorin spoke quietly, but his voice was firm. "You mustn't come out until I come to get you."
"But, Amad! And Kili!" Fili surged towards the door but was caught by his uncle's hand. "No, Fili." Thorin answered, holding his nephew's gaze, "I will go to them. They will be fine. But you must stay here, and stay silent, understand?" Ailyn and Fili nodded silently.
"Fili." Thorin lowered his voice, as he slowly handed his nephew a dagger, "Hold onto this alright?" Fili swallowed a lump in his throat before reaching out a shaky hand to the dagger. Before leaving, Thorin placed a kiss on Ailyn's forehead, stood back and shut the door. He dashed outside of the forge, sword in hand.
Fili and Ailyn huddled together in the back of the closet. Ailyn sat on the ground, her knees tucked against her chest as she shivered. Fili kept turning the dagger in his hand, praying to Mahal that his Amad, uncle, and Kili would be alright. That nothing would come into the forge. The two small Dwarves sat their in the dim lighting for what felt like to them as hours. Hearing screaming, shouting. Not being able to block it out.
"Fili…" Ailyn grabbed at her cousin as a sudden crash echoed through the forge.
"It's alright." Fili nodded his voice faint, "Uncle will do something." The two Dwarflings fell silent as they heard footsteps drew closer. Fili gripped the dagger in his hand tighter, recalling the tips Mister Dwalin had given him when using one. Ailyn let out a shriek as the door swung open and the massive shadow of an Orc covered them. Before Ailyn could scream again or Fili before could react, the Orc grabbed Fili by the arm, yanking him from the closet and jolting him to the other end of the room before grabbing Ailyn.
"NO!" Ailyn yelled, trying to grab something, anything to hold onto.
"LET ME GO!" Ailyn struggled against the Orc's grip, but it only laughed and gripped her arms tightly. Tears ran down her face as she struggled. Kicking her feet against the Orc's chest she heard, Fili yell moments before the monster let go and reared up in pain as Fili buried his dagger in its back. Ailyn scrambled up, and pushed the Orc backwards. Fili grabbed Ailyn and pulled her backwards to a corne, as the Orc wailed in pain before turning on its side, cursing at the two. Crawling on the ground, the black skinned orc clawed its way towards the two Dwarflings.
"ADAD!" Ailyn yelled as tears ran down her cheeks.
"He's not here to save you!" The Orc snarled, reaching, when his arm went limp, as Thorin plunged his blade into the back of the monster. Without wasting a moment, Thorin bound to the corner that they were huddling in, scooping up the shaking Dwarflings into his arms.
"Are you hurt?" Thorin questioned urgently, looking between Ailyn and Fili. He ran a thumb over Ailyn's wet cheeks, before cupping Fili's chin to look up at him, dirt and dust covering his face and clothing.
"No." Fili whispered in a small voice before Thorin hugged him and Ailyn close to his chest.
"You two are safe. I'm here." Thorin whispered as he rose, and began to make his way from the forge. "You're safe."
XXX
"Fili is finally asleep." Dis spoke softly as she came into the sitting room of their small cottage. Her eyes landed on her elder brother as he ran his hand along Ailyn's hair as she slept in his lap. Covered by a blanket, even in sleep Ailyn kept a firm grip onto her fathers shirt.
"Thorin." Dis spoke again. causing her brother to look up.
"Are they alright?" Thorin asked in a low tone as Dis sat in a chair near the fire. She nodded slowly, "Scared. Fili…he was still shaking." Thorin let out a long sigh, rubbing the bridge of his nose, "I shouldn't have left them there. Then you and Kili here…"
"Kili and I are fine, Thorin." Dis watched her brother, "Fili and Ailyn are-"
"Not fine." Thorin cut her off his voice growing darker, "they aren't fine. You…you should have heard Ailyn scream, Dis. I thought-" Thorin's voice wavered as he sucked in a breath his eyes landing on his daughter, "I thought they would both be gone." He looked up again, eyes growing red.
"They weren't, Thorin." Dis answered sternly, "They are both fine. We're all fine. The others are still alive. It was a small orc raid, was it not?" Thorin answered with a nod, before leaning back in his chair, taking care not to wake Ailyn.
"What are you thinking?" Dis asked after a while of silence.
"I need to keep them safe." Thorin nodded, his gaze far away, "Fili, Kili, and Ailyn."
"What more can you do brother?" Dis looked a bit confused.
"I'll teach them to fight." Thorin glanced at Ailyn then Dis. "Fili, Kili. Even Ailyn. Fili and Ailyn now, Kili when he is older. By Durin's name, they will survive."
I hope you all enjoyed, I'll do my best to have the next chapter up soon.