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A/N: Huge chapter, sorry for the delay *.*
It's the fear
That evening multiple fires got ignited in Erebor inside and out. It wasn't only the great feast that followed the coronation in the royal dining cavern and had Erebor's court and all the delegations invited, but every single level of the Mountain was in a bright and festive mood. From the deepest mining levels and social residential areas to the top floors, all major caverns and the cities adjoining them were overflowing with people that celebrated the rise of the King of the North. Not a single home was dark and no one dared to sleep during this historical night. All the houses were overflowing with people. They were lit up bright, and provided good food, ale, music and laughter for everyone till the break of dawn. Even the barracks of Erebor were overtaken by the celebrations and rivers of mead were streaming between the heavy boots of the soldiers who sang loud enough to shake Erebor to it's deepest roots. When once Erebor's thick walls were covered in darkness, now there was light in every corner chasing away the shadows and when once it's deep caverns were reigned by silence, they now echoed with happy voices and music. The only ones who didn't participate in the general debauchery were the Royal guards, but that didn't extend to their commander prince Fili. Despite the fact that he had the responsibility of keeping the royal family safe through all this madness, he was between those who ate a lot, drunk more and courted flirtatiously with Valdis from the moment he entered the royal dining cavern and nobody could blame him.
He was celebrating along with everyone else not only the rise of a King, but the rise of a whole Kingdom. The delegations from the far away cities kept their serious facade as long as they could, but the general mood soon overtook them also. Slowly they began loosening up after a few cups of the strongest ale and started partaking in the general debauchery. All apart from King Thranduil who was totally unaffected by the alcohol. Nevertheless even that steely personality found great interest in his long conversations with Thorin and was not in a hurry to cut them short.
Everyone wanted to grab the attention of The King. Gandalf wished to speak to him about the Northern Alliance. Radagast about his responsibility to keep the creatures of Mirkwood forest safe from any foes. The representatives of Rohan wanted to discuss the issues they were having with Saruman. The Northmen about new safe passages that needed to be built between the western part of Mirkwood and Rhovanion as they wanted to resume trades with Rohan and were adamantly asking Thorin's reassurances that he'd overlook these areas and he'd help create safe trading routes between them and the south.
Dale wanted to discuss about the rebuilding of Esgaroth and his vision for it. Bard declared openly that he intended to create his own army and use it not only as a protection for their city, but also as an outer protection of the southeastern part of Erebor's lands. They wanted Thorin to provide them with troops in order to train them.
Thranduil discussed with him the thin balances of his kin with the different Dwarven Kingdoms throughout Middle Earth and was very persistent about the darkness that was slowly raising from the east. He was quick to clear up to Thorin that after the creation of this mighty northern alliance the Ash mountains wouldn't remain silent for long. They were going to retaliate in some manner sooner or later, so they all had to be prepared.
Everybody sought Thorin, but his precious attention remained undivided upon his wife, even though he answered politely to all. His eyes though were solely for Eilin who looked absolutely spent and ill by the time the feast was coming to a closure. He didn't leave her side not even for a single moment, even though she caressed his hand and reassured him that she was fine. She knew how important it was for him to attend to his guest. There were various important diplomatic relationships that were being opened or established that evening, yet he denied sternly. Anyone who wished to talk, could find him seated on the most elaborate golden carved chair of the dining room with Eilin by his side, holding her hand affectionately and tending to her needs.
As for the poor Eilin, she had a far harder time than Thorin. She may have had her husband next to her during all this time supporting her with words or simply by his presence, but every single Lady in the room demanded her attention and the babies hadn't stopped kicking her. The Ladies approached her timidly at first, but their polite and kind manners drew Eilin in quickly. She didn't deny a single audience and she spoke with each and everyone despite the pulling of her stomach and the constant rivers of sweat that was drenching her back, making her rather hot and uncomfortable. The grand Ladies talked about her beautiful airy dress and the dazzling diamond net around her bun. They weaved praises for her enchanting beauty and about how big her belly was and how mighty the children she was birth were going to become. They wanted to see from up close, the golden coronet the King had offered his Queen and the diamond ring on her finger. They wanted to admire and take everything she had to give them.
Much like the commoners they felt that touching the Queen would offer them luck, but they were less keen in admitting to this folly. The Ladies that buzzed more vividly around Eilin were the free ones and they possibly yearned to be blessed with the same luck as her.
Thorin and Eilin complied patiently with the needs of their subjects while in truth they tried to take strength from each other in order to get through this demanding evening. Their hands were clasped tightly and their fingers stippled as they addressed everyone who wished for their attention with equal patience and politeness. Thorin left Eilin's side only once in order to get Lis who was hopscotching like crazy all over the room.
It was inevitable that when the King stood up every everyone's attention was solemnly on him, so when Thorin approached Lis and touched her shoulder gently they were all watching with intrigue at what was going to unfold.
Thorin raised his brow at Lis. "Are you ready little one?" He asked.
Lis frowned. "About what Sir?"
He came down to one knee and picked up a thick lock from the back of her nape. He looked at her amused and split it into three parts. "You'll see."
"What are you doing Sir?" little Lis tried to look down, but he nudged her head up again.
"Face straight!" he commanded and he began braiding her long hair.
Loa was looking at her daughter with eyes full of tears and Dwalin gave her a worried side look. "Are you going to collapse on me, my dear woman?"
Loa looked at him lost for a brief moment.
Dwalin smirked. "I need to know. I must be prepared to catch you in case you do..." He teased.
A ghostly smile broke on Loa's pale lips. "I think he's making her a warrior braid..."
Dwalin crossed his arms. "I think you maybe right."
She cupped her mouth. "My baby girl."
"Is not a baby anymore. We've been training hard and she is rather talented. I don't think her aspiration is to become a pretty little dwarrowdam, but rather a brave warrior." He said and offered her his elbow.
She engaged it gratefully. "I may not approve, but I won't stand in her way."
"Good." Dwalin's lips offered her a measured smile.
She gaze at him long and hard. "Don't push her too much, okay?"
He raised his brow. "Do you want her to be a warrior or not?"
Loa was unable to hide the uncertainty that dawned upon her features. "No...I don't, but it is what she wants." She muttered.
"Then allow me to do my job. I will come down on her like an oliphaunt stampede and she will learn how to take it on like a man." He told her with a half smile.
Loa leaned onto him and clasped his forearm. "Do you promise to take care of her?"
Dwalin's reserved smile grew wide. "Don't worry, I have her."
Loa closed her eyes and her face was filled with gratitude. "Thank you so much."
Dwalin's large hand covered hers gently and she reciprocated shyly.
"My pleasure." Dwalin held her gaze for what felt like forever before turning his attention to the middle of the room where the King had finished Lis' warrior braid and was placing one of his beads on it.
Lis looked shocked out of her mind. "A warrior braid for me?!"
He nodded and cleared some hair away from her cheek. "You saved me and my family... you deserve much more than a warrior braid."
Lis felt her cheeks catching on fire. "I do?"
Thorin stood up and gave a quiet nod to Balin who drew his sword and bowed before offering it to the King.
Thorin turned to Lis solemnly. "Kneel." He commanded.
Lis fell on both knees and Loa gripped Dwalin's forearm breathlessly. "Is he going to offer her a knighthood?"
Dwalin smiled knowingly. "Damehood."
Thorin tapped his sword to Lis' shoulders. First one, then the other. "Little lady, I am offering you the biggest honour I can give to someone not born into nobility. May you train hard and long in order to become the fierce warrior that I know you are hiding in your heart. May you be loyal and brave and may you be courageous beyond count when your help will be needed by my children. Stand up Lady Lis and lead the way for the rest of the dames of Erebor that may wish to have a carrier in our military in some form or another."
Loa buried her face on Dwalin's chest and he embraced her. "Now, now..." he whispered.
Lis stood up and her body was shaking from head to foot. She pressed her feast above her chest ardently. "Thank you Sir, you know I would die in order to protect you and your family!"
An exhalation of awe run through the cavern and Thorin's mouth gifted her with a beautiful smile that melted his wife's heart. "I know you will my Lady, that is why I will trust you with them when I feel it is time."
Lis lowered her head and tried hard to stop her tears from running. "I promise I will do the best I can to become the bravest warrior of your army!"
Thorin threw the sword back at Balin who caught it skilfully mid air.
"What I did with you has never happened before in Erebor young Lady. We've broken many set rules in order to make you a Lady and I know we won't regret it, because I have seen immense courage hiding behind that dainty exterior of yours. You will become the first female warrior of our kin Lady Lis, so I will demand from you to give this effort your everything. It is your steps that will inspire the future dames of Erebor to follow the same path. May this change that we have both created be for the best." He reached out and caressed her hair tenderly.
"It will be for the best! I will prove to all that women can fight equally bravely to men! You'll see!" She raised her eyes to him and looked at him longingly.
"I am sure they can. I know a woman whose brave fight has already saved my life more than a few times. Possibly literally." Thorin's lips curled up proudly and he looked back at his wife who wiped the tears that pooled in her eyes and gave him the most loving smile she could master.
Lis gripped his hand tightly. "My daddy died in your arms and you promised to him that you would protect us." She said with a diminished voice.
Thorin lost his smile upon those heavy words. "I hope I did right by him."
Lis' face was swimming in tears. "You did and now it is my turn to promise that I will protect your family with my life!"
Thorin leaned down and gave a tender kiss on her forehead. "Thank you my Lady. Now do you think we are even?"
She looked up to him and beamed. "No Sir! We won't be until I save your children!"
He chuckled. "Very well, allow time to unfold it's secrets to us and go to your poor mother who is ready to collapse."
Lis lifted up his hand to her mouth and kissed it, before bowing. Then she fell to the arms of her mother who began sobbing along with her daughter and neither was able to see the smiles of pride and admiration that had overtaken the whole cavern. Lis' words of loyalty and determination wouldn't be forgotten soon as they left a imprint that would change the course of history for many dwarrowdams in the years to come.
Thorin returned to his wife who was looking at him with unwavering devotion and he sat next to her. He reached out for her hand and their fingers stippled tightly as the dance floor slowly got crowded and music resonated around them. She wanted so much to please him, that she stood up with difficulty and asked him to dance with her. He pulled her down gently and drew her in his arms. His lips gifted her brow with a doting kiss and he cupped her cheek. "Allow everyone else to dance tonight for us and I promise that I will dance with you as many times as you like after the babies are born."
Eilin kissed the tips of his fingers that were grazing the softness of her cheek and felt more than thankful that her husband could understand her fatigue and didn't force her to act like a proper Queen by opening up the dance for the rest. She leaned her head on his shoulder and enjoyed thoroughly their friends and family dancing for them.
Fili opened up the dance with Valdis and surprisingly Dwalin took up the courage to ask Loa. That though was bound to fail as Lis got buried between them and demanded part of the action. Thorin's thumb caressed the back of Eilin's hand as he looked thoughtfully at his sister accepting Dongar's offer. When once upon a time he could have killed Dongar for daring to approach his mourning sister, now he felt peculiarly comforted by the knowledge that a loyal and worthy man loved his gerbil. He felt certain that neither the spirits of their parents, nor that of her brave husband would have denied Dis, Dongar's company.
As time rolled by with everyone having fun and getting rather drunk Thorin remained quietly thoughtful by her side until Eilin herself allowed Dis to pull her away in order to join some Ladies who had several baby clothes to gift her with. Only then did Thorin take the opportunity to leave the dining hall in order to calm down his thundering headache and find a moment of peace and quiet. His steps unsurprisingly led him to the throne room which was full of half melted candles and ribbons. He smiled knowing that the cleaning ladies would have a lot of trouble of making this place presentable again tomorrow. He stood silently in front of his throne for a few moments glaring coldly at the Arkenstone, but instead of returning to the dining halls he directed his steps atot the only place in Erebor he hadn't been since the battle of the five armies.
He went down endless staircases and twisting corridors until he was able to see the golden hue of the vast treasury caverns glimmering upon the black polished rock of the tall archways. He stopped at the balcony he used in order to observe his grandfather back in the days and a deep frown locked up his countenance. His eyes got lost in the endless rolling hills of gold under the tall columns. They went as far as the eye could see in every direction. He stood there deliberating silently over the biggest treasure of Middle Earth for a rather long time. When he took the first steps that would allow him to saunter amidst his gold, he didn't feel as calm as he had hoped to be. It was as if an old buried fear was trying to resurface despite his certainty that he had everything under control. He tried not to feel that he was closely resembling Thror when he strolled through his treasure with his hands clasped behind his back, talking to his gems, jewellery and golden coins.
Thorin inhaled sharply and removed his clasped hands away from his back and looked at his scarred palms with shiver of apprehension running down his spine. The few steps he took down there had already been done using the same mannerisms of Thror and that didn't make him feel at ease. He shook his head in denial as he fought to discard these consuming thoughts and straightened his body against their onslaught. He had already conquered every single obstacle up till then, he wasn't going to feel defeated now by this. His hands became tight fists and he began walking deliberately through the long corridors that were between his mountains of gold thinking how many lives this treasure had already claimed.
From the miners and the delvers that fell to their death in order to enrich it with a rare gem that was just out of their reach, to the armies that waged wars in order to claim it. From the fiery beasts that smelled it's gold from miles and tried to find ways to burrow in, to the dark entities who controlled them and needed to gain a foothold in his Mountain. This treasure had always been the driving force behind everything that ever happened in the Erebor all through the centuries. While Thorin's vision was to create a different rulership for the Mountain and change the set ideas of his kin as to what was truly important in life, he knew that part of Erebor's strength would always be the endless rivers of gold and precious gems that lay hidden in it's bowels.
It was up to him how he was going to use this power. Was he going to drain people in order to make it grow or was he going to invest part of it back to the people of Erebor and his alliances? His actions had already though answered that for him. The moment he returned to Dale it's rightful share of that treasure, the decision of how he was going to rule this immense wealth had been already taken. His life, but above all his death had taught him him that love, family, loyal friendships and true alliances were worth all the gold of Erebor and even more. His old convictions had already been shifted violently and nothing was able to turn that around for him now. Eilin's loving presence, his children, his family, his close friends and the love of his people wouldn't allow him to get sick with that nightmarish disease that undid his grandfather and unhinged his poor father till they both perished.
Thorin had been cursed in the past to walk through eternal damnation, but in he overcame all the difficulties. He managed to create his own footprint in this world and get rid the chain that his forefathers had placed at his wrists. Now he didn't work through the principles set by them, he created his own and that allowed him to feel a freedom that was difficult to describe with words.
He looked down at his polished boots quietly trying to appreciate the safety he felt in that precious knowledge, when Balin's voice made him look up.
"Hello laddie." He walked down the steps carrying the golden platter that held the shards of Narsil.
"Hello Balin." His deep voice echoed in the vast adjoining chambers.
"Didn't know you were down here. Am I interrupting?" Balin said and placed the plater upon a golden pedestal.
"Interrupting what...I am all alone." Thorin flicked his shoulder and looked at the broken sword.
Balin pursed his lips and gazed at his friend. "Just brought down your wife's heirloom. It's going to be safe her until you reforge it."
"Thank you." Thorin gave him a ghostly smile.
"Ceremony was magnificent." Balin trailed off.
"And finally over..." Thorin smirked.
Balin nodded knowingly. "Wedding was deeply emotional..."
Thorin looked at him sideways. "I thank the Gods that Eilin lasted through all this ordeal. It was a very close call."
Balin caressed his long beard thoughtfully. "Your wife looked tired, but enchantingly beautiful like always...considering her age."
Thorin raised his brows and glared at Balin silently.
Balin tilted his head and his voice gained a teasing tone. "You know, being a hundred and forty years old..."
Thorin's closed his eyes and cupped his face. "Oh, shut up..." The smile was visible behind his long fingers.
Balin scratched his nape and bobbed his head. "She fooled us well, didn't she? One would have never imagined her to be this old. She looks like such an unspoiled, pretty and fresh flower, you know."
Thorin chuckled and rubbed his eyes fiercely. "Don't rub it in."
Balin smirked. "You figured out the miscalculation?"
Thorin exhaled hard. "Have I not perchance? I am not well, am I?"
Balin shook his head and a faded look of worry shadowed his eyes. "No, you are not and this worries me. What is the matter Thorin? This is hardly you! You never make such serious mistakes."
It took several moments for Thorin to admit what has been bothering his mind all this time, making him unable to function properly. "I worry about Eilin constantly. I can barely concentrate on anything anymore. I am counting every moment towards her delivery backwards. Even when I sleep I am constantly plagued by nightmares." -He stopped and pursed his lips annoyed- "And I was so sure I had everything under control."
Balin sighed. "Her labour worries you?"
"Both the labour and how small the second baby feels. I cannot shake off a nasty feeling that something will go wrong." Thorin paled and his eyes fell on the Narsil again.
Balin crossed his arms. "Like?"
Thorin remained silent for a brief moment before deciding to share his greatest fear. The one that numbed down his mind and made him unable to function. "I fear that I will either lose my wife or one of my children during this labour." His voice sounded diminished.
Balin nodded in empathy. "I know...nothing can ever go well for you, right?"
Thorin turned to him sharply. His silence spoke volumes.
Balin continued unfazed of Thorin's apparent emotional turmoil. "Everything must turn out a nightmare...correct?"
Thorin remained quiet.
Balin closed his eyes and rubbed his forehead. "I thought you have left the past behind."
"I have..." Thorin hurried to say.
Balin shook his head. "Then why are you overtaken by all those fears?"
Thorin averted his eyes. "I don't know."
"Why do you believe you don't deserve the happiness that you have worked so hard for. Why do you think that something will turn all this into the nightmares you are so used to." Balin kept pushing.
Thorin cupped his forehead and closed his eyes. "I don't know..." he repeated.
Balin paused and cleared his throat. "Well, I think that everything will turn out fine. Both with Eilin and your children, alright?"
Thorin swallowed heavily and looked at his boots. "Alright." He said, but it was half hearted.
Balin pursed his lips. "Let's get our attention away from your biggest fear and turn it to your latest failure, shall we?"
Thorin gazed at him sideways with a faded smile.
Balin nodded and waved him off. "You messed up and I didn't correct you. Who is the biggest failure between us?"
"Trying to make me feel better?" Thorin raised his brow.
Balin nodded with a smile. "Yeah, kind off."
Thorin caressed the scars on his palms. "I don't remember much from those moments Balin. It is as if my memories are covered with thick semi transparent curtain. I can see the outlines, but not the details. I know several people that were there with me, but I cannot recall the faces well. Lord Óthin wasn't even there with my grandfather, was he?"
Balin's lips turned down. "You are not that messed up yet laddie. Lord Óthin was there. I saw him too."
"How could he have died then?" Thorin looked at Balin confused.
Balin's heart skirted as he witnessed a King that was always in absolute control of everything that concerned his kingdom and his subjects, looking absolutely bewildered. "I spoke with Bjarki who was there with me and Dwalin. Lord Óthin took the hit you remember from the pale Orc, but it wasn't his mangled body you brought in for burial."
Thorin's lips turned down in disappointment. "I carried so many. They were all covered in blood. I had lost Frerin and Thror..." His voice blew out like a candle.
Balin gripped his shoulder tightly. "You have always been too hard on yourself and at times too demanding. You may be wise, immensely clever and brave beyond count, but Thorin you are just a man at the end of the day and not immune to errors. Those moments were a pure nightmare for you. How can you remember with any detail who you carried back and who died? Nobody can blame you."
Thorin gave him a grateful side smile. "Óthin survived then?"
Balin nodded thoughtfully. "He had very serious wounds, but he lived."
All the blood drained from Thorin's features. "I don't remember seeing him after the battle in the Blue Mountains..."
Balin waved him off. "Don't go into another guilt trip about that now okay? Why should you remember every Lord and Lady that passes through your halls."
Thorin pressed his lips. "Still..."
Balin's hand squeezed his shoulder. "Bjarki said that when Lord Óthin recovered he left the Blue Mountains for lands unknown."
Thorin covered his face and exhaled. "Perfect..."
Balin tilted his head slightly. "We don't even know if he is alive after so many years, but he never made an official appearance in any major Dwarven city after the Battle of Moria."
Thorin removed his hand and looked annoyed at the Narsil. "I wished to find answers for her and all I got are more questions... and a bloody punch at my ego."
Balin snorted. "Mine too...I failed too remember?"
Thorin smiled and got ready to answer when her melodic voice addressed him from the landing. "My love?"
He turned and looked at her and it was as if a wisp of fresh air blew upon his irritated heart. It was amazing how her face was able to offer him instant relief from every dark thought. He was sure she held some kind of magic over him. Magic even stronger than the one Gandalf used in order to bring him back from the dead. Wasn't her magic perchance able to rebirth him? He smiled brightly at her. "I wish you'd sing for me more often. I miss your voice..." He said quietly.
Balin removed his hand and straightened his vest. "I should go."
Eilin raised her hand. "Please Lord Balin, don't. I can come back later. You seemed to be having a rather serious conversation."
Balin came up the steps quickly. "Nothing serious I assure you. We were just counting our failures..."
Thorin humphed and crossed his arms.
"Take care to rest well, both of you." Balin said and gifted Eilin with a warm smile that she reciprocated.
"Thank you."
"Goodnight." The old advisor said and he walked away.
As the heavy steps of his boots faded away at the corridors above she looked at her husband. "I'll sing for you anytime you wish my heart, but the pain and the discomfort make it hard for me to even breathe, much less sing."
"You will sing to our children when they are born. That's more than enough for me." He rejoined with a sweet smile.
"Have I ever told you how much I love you?" she raised her brow at him.
He tilted his head. "Myriads of times..."
"Have I ever told you that I'd deeply appreciate your help in order to get down these monstrous looking steps?" she looked at them with dread.
He chuckled and ran to her assistance. When he reached her instead of offering his hand he picked her up in his arms and walked down the steps. "I cannot get over how easy you make this look." She teased him.
He put her down gently. "What do you mean?"
"You are carrying me and the babies with such ease and I can barely walk." She cringed regretfully.
His arm wrapped around her waist and he secured her body against his. "It's my honour to carry the weight of our family and I hope Mahal shall bless me to do so for many years to come, until our children are strong enough to come to their own." He said quietly.
She nestled in his arms with a content smile. "I love you so much my heart."
He caressed the side of her head delicately. "I love you too. How do you feel?"
"Tired, but so so happy! You?" She huddle up to him.
"I expected to feel somewhat different after being married." He scrounged his lips thoughtfully.
Her frown was troubled and she was unable to hide that from him. "Like...?"
He smirked and his forefinger traced her cheekbone, down to her jawline gingerly. "Kind of manacled I suppose..."
Eilin gripped his lapels and twisted them between her fingers. "Careful..." She warned him.
He chuckled and leaned down to supply her mouth with dozens of soft adoring pecks, that made her exhale in relief. "But I didn't. You see I was meant to be your husband from the first moment that I was born..." He whispered.
Her lips curled up under his and her fingers coasted up to the scar on his forehead. "You saved it by a hair's inch." She murmured, feeling enchanted once more by his words.
"Good..." he came down and captured her lips softly with his.
She closed her eyes and her warm breath caressed the side of his face. "Can I admit something now that we are alone?"
He nodded and kissed her gingerly.
"I am truly surprised I didn't collapse today in the throne room." She said in a hushed tone.
He pulled back and engaged her loving eyes. "I am sorry you had to go through all this..." He sounded regretful.
She quickly spoke over him. "Nevertheless I wouldn't have changed this for the world. The sight of you wearing the Raven Crown, seated under the King's Gem filled my heart with bliss. Today I experienced the rise of a powerful alliance under a mighty King who is well-matched to his legendary forefathers, if not their better and that King just also happens to be my husband and the father of my children. The pride I felt just being next to you is immeasurable. The shivers of awe that shook my soul when you walked in the throne room were enough to eliminate any discomfort I may have felt at that moment and I still feel those aftershocks, even now."
His eyes were burning from her words and his heart was racing. He came down to offer her a gentle kiss of affection which she reciprocated, before pulling her tightly in his arms. "You may not believe it, but all my attention was on you from the moment I came into the throne room to the moment I left the dining halls tonight to come here." -He humphed- "And even in here, my mind was troubled only by you...for you."
She sighed. "As was my mind only upon you every single moment."
He exhaled hard and closed his eyes as his large palm cupped her cheek and drew her head to his chest. He turned around and placed a soft kiss on top of her curls. "When I saw you standing next to the throne, all dressed in this beautiful wedding gown, with those diamonds sparkling upon your head I couldn't help but wonder how your beauty could overshadow even the most precious stones of my kingdom. I am the luckiest man in the world to be able to embrace and adore the most beautiful gem of Middle Earth. I love you beyond count..."
Her arms squeezed him and tears stained her cheeks. "I love you too Thorin...more than life."
A small silence ensued were they enjoyed each other's presence, but finally it was him who broke it. His hand clasped hers and brought it up. He caressed her golden ring with his thumb. "So now that you are wearing it, does it feel any different for you?"
She shivered. "No my heart..."
He looked at her thoughtfully for a few moments. "You know we could have avoided all this completely, right? We could have stayed in bed cuddling and exchanging our vows all alone."
She drew back in order to see him better. "I wanted to experience this so much Thorin...I wouldn't have changed this day for the whole world." She pulled herself up in order to gift his soft lips with a fierce kiss, which he reciprocated with the same fervour, up until she released a moan of pain in his mouth, instead of one caused by pleasure.
"Pain again?" he looked down at her with a troubled frown.
She nodded and cuddle in his arms. "Yes...my back...there..." She pointed.
Then she closed her eyes as his fingers found easily the bruised nerve and started warming it up with a steady circular motion. Thorin pursed his lips feeling rather concerned about her deteriorating state, but also annoyed that he didn't postpone the coronation for after delivery. "Eilin I truly wish I could have married you in the confines of our bedroom. I would have avoided seeing you this spent. You may still be a hypnotising vision of beauty and grace that steals my breath away, but I'd rather have you lying down and snoring with your mouth half open only dressed in a plain tunic at this moment."
She cringed. "I know you do my love and I cannot wait to snore away all the fatigue I feel inside right now, but don't ruin this day for me, alright?"
He pressed his lips and nodded. "Alright my love."
She closed her eyes and kissed his neck gently. "Why did you leave the dining hall? I got worried."
"You were so happy to see all these baby gifts and share your happiness with the ladies and I needed to get away from the demanding environment for a few moments. Strange as it might sound I get rather overwhelmed at times. I am truly a very private man. Who told you I was down here?" He gazed thoughtfully at her.
"All the guards I asked." She smiled.
He tilted his head and chuckled "Forgot about them."
"So why did you come here?" she drew back in order to admire for the first time the exhilarating, almost heart-stopping vastitude of this treasure.
He looked around him much less affected. "I haven't visited this place since the Battle of the Five Armies. Last time I stood here I was overtaken by the gold sickness and I was half out of my mind. The only clear memory I have from this treasury was the day Smaug attacked. The same day that I threw the Arkenstone away after a rather vicious showdown with my grandfather up there at that railing you were holding onto before."
She frowned and tried to find his seductive azure eyes. "You had a showdown with King Thror? I'd like to hear about that one someday."
His lips twisted. "A story to be told at another time my beloved."
She exhaled and nodded in understanding. "As you wish my love." -Then her eyes turned to the golden pedestal that held the shards of Narsil. She disengaged his elbow and approached- "So what is this broken sword for? I saw King Thranduil offering it as a gift to you, but I couldn't hear what you said to each other. It seemed rather strange that he'd offer you something broken." She extended her hand to touch it's hilt. It was as if an unseen force was drawing her near it, yet she stopped at the last moment and pulled her hand back.
He came and stood right next to her. His body, tall and imposing was supporting her even without having any physical contact. "This is an old heirloom of our family. I asked it from the Elven King and he was kind enough to deliver."
"An heirloom?" She looked at him tensely.
He gave her a quiet nod.
"Whose was it?" she licked her lips trying to deny herself the need to touch it again.
Thorin read that need in her beautiful green eyes. He reached down and led her hand up until her fingers grazed the hilt of the sword. She pulled her hand away abruptly and frowned. Her eyes turned demanding on Thorin.
"It belongs to one of the forefathers of our family. One I didn't know about until recently." He replied vaguely.
She hesitated momentarily. "I thought you knew everything about the legacy of your family."
He raised his brow. "This part of our family is a recent addition...very very recent."
She pressed her lips and glared at the sword. "Why is the sword broken?"
"It got destroyed in battle by a rather dark enemy."
She reached out to touch the blade gently again.
"Careful you don't cut yourself. It's still sharp." He noted.
She smiled back at him lovingly. "Who is going to reforge it? This looks like it had once been a powerful sword..."
"It is of great craftsmanship. I will try to reforge it myself." He frowned down at it as he felt the immensity of this task a little too heavy for his shoulders. Trying to emulate the impeccable job of one of the best sword smiths of Middle Earth was a rather daunting task no doubt.
She beamed up to him. "From the few times I have seen you working this trade, I'd say this sword is lucky. Are you going to wield it yourself?"
His brows clouded. "No, it might belong to our family, but it is not mine to wield. If you birth a son, I will pass it down to him and he shall give it to its rightful owner when the times comes."
A shudder of awe ran up her spine. "I'd like to learn about this forefather of yours. This recent addition to your family."
He reached out and caressed her hair tenderly. "I keep saying -our family- you keep saying -your family-" He noted gently.
Eilin closed her eyes. "You are right." She gave him a loving smile that made his heart skirt.
"It's not yet time for you to learn yet."
She clutched the golden lapels of his vest and pulled him closer. "Why are you so secretive about all this?"
He wrapped his arms around her and touched his forehead to hers affectionately. "Because you haven't asked me the right question yet, my love."
Her lips parted, but he didn't allow her the time to speak. He leaned down and lingered for a few breathless moments over her mouth, before engaging it with a delicately sensual kiss that made her heart sing to his tune. When he pulled back she was looking at him dazed. "How will I know which question it is I must ask in order to get an answer then?" She felt confused, but also loved beyond measure.
"Your heart will let you know when it is time. The question will come to you when when your soul is ready for answers. When you ask I hope I can have all the answers for you, but until then let us forget all about these shards...alright?" he whispered upon her lips.
She snorted happily. "I am going to pretend now that I am immensely wise and that I understood everything you said, okay?"
His forefinger and thumb captured her chin between them and he pulled her head up. He smiled at her. "And I will pretend like I don't know that you didn't understand."
She giggled and cuddled in his arms as he enfolded her close to his heart. "I love you." She whispered.
"And I love you and all your silliness sometimes." He closed his eyes and rested his cheek on her head. They remained embraced for a long time not caring about the colossal treasure around them, for they had the only treasure they ever wished for held tight in each other's arms.
It was three days after Thorin's coronation, that found the royal couple sprawled in bed. They had gone through a rather difficult day were Eilin couldn't find a single painless position for her bloated body without cursing under her breath. Her groans and moans of pain, her perfect pink lips spewing the most dreadful curses towards the furniture that felt so uncomfortable, her constant need to pee and her inability to sleep more than an hour without waking up bothered and aching all over, were few of the new constants of Thorin's life lately. That night found Eilin tucked between her usual pillows snoring away her fatigue and poor Thorin taking up a small part of their bed at one side, trying not to bother her by his immense frame. Tonight his body had ended up painfully twisted away from Eilin's pillow mountain, nevertheless he was sleeping rather heavily so when Eilin grasped his shoulder and began shaking him hard, he was unable to wake up easily.
"Thorin! Thorin...!" She whispered and shook him.
No response.
"Oh, come on wake up for heaven's sake!" Upon seeing no response from her snoring husband, she pushed the pillows away and looked at the mess she had created on the mattress. "Oh...shit...oh ...fucking shit...trouble...we got trouble! Thorin wake up!" she began shaking him more violently.
He groaned and tried to push her "Go away." Her insomnia had been affecting him more than expected. He was obliged to work throughout the day, so when he returned to their rooms he also had to take care of Eilin's needs. That ended up with him sleeping less and less as Eilin's pregnancy progressed. At that moment he really didn't want to be awoken by anyone and Eilin felt a small trace of regret before grabbing his shoulder tightly again with renewed determination.
"Thorin for the name of love, wake up!" she hollered.
"Not now...give me a moment..." he whispered and settled down again.
She fumed and clawed his shoulder, feeling both remorse and irritation at the same time. "Thorin wake the hell up!" She slapped the middle of his back so hard that her palm echoed with burning pain.
His eyes cracked open and he looked at her above his shoulder with a deep frown. He barely seemed affected by the thwart that numbed Eilin's hand down, but at least he was awake now. "You want me to take you to the toilet?" He asked with a sleepy voice. He was so used to waking up in the middle of the night in order to assist her to the bathroom that for him that was the most obvious reason for being awoken this brutally at such an ungodly hour.
She raised her brow and looked between her open thighs. "What toilet? Apparently I had my toilet right here on our bed!"
He yawned. "What?"
"Feel this!" She took his hand and led it down at the soaked sheets under her.
He winced irritated. "Don't worry, I will change them. Let me help you up." He turned around and made an attempt to get up, but her hand grasped his forearm firmly.
"This is not pee!" She pulled him in order to look at his bloodshot eyes.
He frowned at her, honestly confused. "What is it then?"
She felt another contraction coming and squeezed her eyes tight. She breathed deeply through her nose, exhaled through her mouth and counted as she tried to follow Loa's instructions on how to ride out the pain. Her fingers twisted hard on his skin and he winced feeling the first traces of apprehension rolling down his spine. "What is going on Eilin? Are you in pain?"
She nodded and grabbed her belly. When she felt safe to speak again without groaning in pain she opened her eyes. "I think the babies are coming." she said as gently as possible. She didn't want to freak him out, but she failed royally.
"What!?" He cried and his eyes flew open.
"The babies are coming. You have to wake up Loa and your sister, alright my heart?" She forced herself to smile.
He jumped out of bed shocked out of his senses and began running in the room like a chicken with it's head cut off. He didn't know where to go first, the cupboard, Eilin or the door. Suddenly he stopped and gave her a look of utter terror. "What are we going to do?!" He cried.
"We are going to give birth to our babies as they seem to want to get out fast! Just go get Loa and your sister please!" She said with a partly amused smile at his obvious panic. Seeing this mighty warrior King who had partaken in hundreds of bloody wars, panicking over her labour like a dwarfling made her smile blossom into an honest laugh, that ended up into a sob of pain.
His eyes looked at her in perturbation. "Are you laughing or crying right now?!" He asked totally bewildered.
She snorted and pointed at the door. "Both, now go!"
He nodded with a lost look in his eyes. "Right! On it immediately!" He rejoined and bolted to the door.
Eilin's eyes popped open and she hollered at him. "Not naked Thorin! You are naked!"
He stopped with his hand on the handle and looked down at himself for a brief shocked moment. Then he went to the armchair and took his clothes which he wore messily. "I need to get dressed..." he mumbled as he threw his tunic over his body, not even noticing that it's hem was barely covering up his open trousers.
"Calm down...!" Eilin cried to him, but he didn't listen to her.
He turned the handle and threw himself out to the royal corridor half dressed and half out of his mind. Eilin leaned back to bed and tried to regulate her breathing when she felt another contraction coming, but this one echoed as an excruciating pain at her lower back that made her twist painfully in bed. Her moan echoed into the corridor that Thorin was running and made him lose every single thread of self control he may have had up till then, which roughly equalled to nil.
He kicked Balin's door and afterwards Dwalin's and then threw the door of Dis open without even bothering to knock on it. He wanted to wake up as many people as possible. Handling the delivery of his children alone was truly overwhelming to him and he was not embarrassed to admit that he needed all the support he could get at that moment. He heard Balin's door opening, just as he was entering Dis' rooms.
"What is wrong laddie? What are you doing up so early?" His old advisor asked still half asleep.
Thorin turned around and hollered. "Wake up Dwalin!"
Balin frowned and tied the belt of his housecoat. "Why? Is Erebor on fire?" He raised his brow in need to tease Thorin with that usual comeback, without understanding how inappropriate it was at that moment.
"Eilin is in labour!" Thorin cried loud enough to wake up Dis.
"What?" the question was asked by both Balin and his sister. One was sleepy, the other one borderline terrified.
Thorin facepalmed so hard that he felt his forehead in actual pain. "Eilin-is-in-labour!" He spat each word out, both at Dis and Balin and kicked the panel of the door feeling infuriated by his inability to wake up everyone as quickly as he wanted.
Balin closed his door and rushed to Dwalin's room. "I'll wake him up laddie, we are with you, don't worry!" He said, suddenly overtaken by the same panicked urgency that was overflowing from Thorin's every single cell.
Dis sat up in bed with her hair all messy and her eyes half open. "What did you just say?" she whispered.
He marched to her bed holding his trousers up with one hand and threw her curtains open. The sky outside was grey and there was a strong rainfall rejuvenating the earth, but it was still very dark. "Get up, Eilin needs you. She's in pain, the bed is flooded. The babies are coming!" -He spat and opened up her cupboard. He took out random pieces of clothing that made no sense and threw them at her- "Get dressed!"
"Flooded? What do you mean flooded?" Dis frowned.
He came around and pulled the quilt away from her body. She shrieked and tried to cover her legs, but he grabbed her arm and drew her out of bed unbothered. "You are supposed to be the midwife here, you tell me what's going on! Eilin is in pain and the bed is wet...very very wet!" he snapped in fury.
Dis' pushed him away in order to get dressed. "Did her waters break?"
"It certainly looked like they did...!" he rebuked angrily.
"Go, leave! Find Loa and I am going to take care of Eilin. Just go!" She pushed him out the door and Thorin found himself tying his trousers as he ran, uncaring of the royal guards that opened up for him with a look of shock at their bewildered faces. He didn't know whom he came across during his unhinged run down to the first level residential area where he had relocated Loa and her daughter, but he knew there were thankfully few people awake, as it was still the dead of night.
When he got there, he realised that he didn't have a clue where Loa's home was. He looked at the long corridors and winding staircases like a bloody idiot. After a few moments where he wanted to appear like he knew what he was doing, he finally admitted defeat. It was completely useless for him to stand in the middle of one of the residential areas with his hair a wild mess around him and his tunic open down to his stomach, looking dangerously deranged. He was not helping his wife like this. He needed to do something, and going back up to bring Dis down would only be a waste of time. He glared angrily at a door that was closest to him for a few moments. Then he marched up to it and knocked. While he waited, half expecting no one to answer, he tried to settle down his long hair and straighten up his tunic so that he wouldn't scare the poor people that would open the door to come face to face with a crazy, half naked and possibly dangerous giant.
Just as he was about to go to the next house in order to try his luck, the door opened up with a loud creak. A kind young woman appeared behind it and when she saw Thorin she instantly brought her hand up to to cover her bosom. "Your Royal Highness" she stammered and averted her eyes to the floor respectfully.
He looked at her shocked that she had recognised him.
She bowed deeply. "What can I do for you at this hour your majesty?"
He got ready to answer, when a much older voice that sounded rather annoyed called from the interior. "Who the hell are you talking to at this hour Vígdís?"
The girl looked above her shoulder. "Keep your voice down mother for heaven's sake, you are making a fool out of me!"
"Whom am I making you a fool to? Who the hell knocked on our door at this hour and why in the name of Mahal do you look so bashful? Is it that young man Burin again? I'll show him, coming to our house at this hour! He overdid it this time! Stand aside youngling!"
The young girl tried to stop her mother and Thorin tried to stop them both, but neither was quick enough. The feisty mother who was the spitting image of her young daughter came to the door and got ready to tell their visitor off, but instead her mouth dropped open and she became pale as a ghost.
Vígdís sighed and rolled her eyes. "I tried to tell you..."
Her mother cupped her mouth and stammered. "What the hell, am I dreaming?"
Thorin shook his head and flailed his arms around. "Enough!"
The women grasped each other's hands and froze in place, trembling.
"Where is Loa's abode!?" he grumbled angrily towards the mother.
She kneeled down and shook her head. "She's...it's...down...she's ...I..." She was unable to utter a single word as she was shocked out of her senses at seeing the King of the North at her doorstep...looking so...so...so...dishevelled. Why did he look like he just had a fight with a wild cat, anyway?
Vígdís took over quickly. "Third door on the right, at the fifth corridor to the left." She pointed.
"The what?" Thorin looked around him totally lost.
"Come I'll show you!" -The girl said and turned to her mother- "Get into the house and I'll be home soon!"
Her mother's head was nodding stupidly still trying to get a glimpse of their legendary King as her daughter led him quickly down the corridor towards Loa's apartments. When they reached them, she was the one who knocked loudly at the door. Thorin was standing behind her muttering under his breath and clutching his temples. The thoughts that were overflowing him were almost ready to spin him into panic. He thought how big one of the babies was and all that talk with his sister about back pain. He remembered his mother telling him that women could die during childbirth and he cursed himself for endangering Eilin in this manner. He was hardly processing things logically at that moment. He was unable to think that this had been the joined decision of two people who loved each other and wished to create life, he could only think of Eilin suffering and that was enough to drive him mad.
The girl knocked on the door again seeing the urgent state of the King and got ready to reassure him that everything was going to be okay, even though she had no idea what was going on. That is when the door opened up slowly and a sleepy Loa made her appearance behind it. "What is it?" she whispered not wanting to wake up Lis. She didn't notice Thorin at first only the girl in front of it.
"The King wants to see you." Vígdís said and pulled aside.
Thorin came down on Loa like a hurricane. He pushed the door open and grabbed her forearm. "Dress up, Eilin's in pain, the babies are coming!"
Loa blinked lost for a few moments. "What?"
"I don't ever want to hear that bloody word again tonight! I swear it's going to drive me insane! Now dress up!" he commanded and Loa jerked back in fear.
"Give her a moment my Lord." Vígdís said as calmly as possible.
Thorin glared at her angrily and then at Loa.
The maiden shook her head and closed her eyes. "Give me a moment my Lord and I will be right with you!" -She murmured and then turned at Vígdís, hesitating momentarily- "Can you please stay with Lis? She will be shocked if she wakes up and doesn't see me here."
Vígdís beamed. "Sure!" She wanted to clap her hands the moment she realised the reason for the King's distress, but she refrained from doing so because he looked ready to explode in the slightest of causes. The heirs to Erebor's throne were about to be born! A yearn to tell everyone overtook her, but she told herself to shut up and be quiet until the King left. Afterwards she intended to knock on every door and wake up everyone so they could keep a silent vigil until the new line of Durin was delivered. As the young girl Vígdís made plans who to wake up first and Loa was getting dressed quickly Thorin was pacing nervously, barely keeping himself from tearing out his beard and his hair. Vígdís would have tried to reassure him that everything was going to turn out fine, if he didn't look ready to bite off the first hand that would dare touch him.
When the door opened up and Loa came out, Thorin's large fingers wrapped around her upper arm and he virtually dragged her across all the single hallways, bridges and staircases, not caring that her shorter legs couldn't keep up with his long military strides easily. Loa tried to tell him, but he didn't listen. Whenever she fell he pulled her back up and pursued his previous wild pace, or walked even faster if possible.
When they appeared under the archway of the royal corridors, Balin, Dwalin, Oin and Ori were already awake, wearing only their undergarments and waiting impatiently for some news. Thorin charged down the brightly lit corridor and everybody pulled away from him respectfully, not even daring to address him. He looked like a wild animal as he threw the doors of the royal chambers open and pushed Loa inside.
It was amazing how the dynamics shifted quickly the moment they entered. Thorin's assertive onslaught broke hard and he froze in place with his heart almost paralysed as his gaze fell to his wife who was writhing in pain at their bed. His stomach dropped and all the colour fled from his face. On the other hand Loa frowned in determination and rushed to Dis' side, taking over the procedure quickly. Thorin's eyes fell to Eilin's uncovered bump that was glistening with sweat and undulating with her sharp breaths. She was leaning on her elbows, cringing painfully and spitting words he couldn't make out between her teeth. Her small hands had squeezed into formidable fists that were pulling the sheets away from the mattress in their need to hold onto something.
"She has not effaced yet. She has a small dilation and she hasn't lost all her waters. She needs to get up and walk." Loa said calmly.
Dis nodded and rounded the bed in order to help her sister-in-law out of bed. "Come on, you have to get up."
"Forget it!" Eilin spat.
"Come on love, you need to walk around a little bit in order to help the babies come out." Dis said patiently.
"No, forget it! I am in excruciating pain! I could barely walk before labour and you expect me to stroll around right now?!" Eilin snapped, unable to hold back her reactions as the pain she felt on her back was making lose every sense of logic. All she wanted to do now was stop the pain, not walk.
Dis pressed her lips. "Your back is killing you because you are lying on it and the babies are pressing on your lower spine. If you try to stand up with our help, you will feel better trust me, please."
Eilin looked at her sharply and that is when her eyes finally saw her flabbergasted husband. Her face mellowed up instantly and she reached out for him. "Thorin!"
He pushed his sister aside so hard that Dis almost toppled over and came over to her. "I am here..." he said with a frown.
Eilin clutched onto his shoulders like a barnacle and pressed her burning cheek at his neck. "The pain Thorin..."
Dis shook her head. "Can you convince her to stand up? Lying down like that is not going to help her deliver."
Thorin cupped Eilin's cheek lovingly and felt his throat drying out. He had never experienced something so awe inspiring and terror inducing before, not even in the heat of the most dangerous battle. He didn't want to see Eilin suffer in this manner, but was there a way to deliver a child painlessly? His jawline flexed and he tried to keep himself from falling apart when Eilin needed him most. "Can you try to walk baby?"
Eilin's eyes were glistening with feral savagery until they engaged his azure gaze. She pressed her pale lips tightly. "I can try..." -then she huffed and her nails dug into his biceps- "If you call me baby again."
A ghostly smile appeared on his lips. "Come on then..."
She nodded and grabbed onto him fiercely when one of her contractions ended up with a pair of cold hands grabbing her lower spine and pulling it mercilessly out of its roots. "Oh..." she groaned.
"Get her up!" Dis commanded.
Thorin looked at his sister with eyes that spewed fire and pulled Eilin slowly up. "Come on my baby...slowly. I am here." He cooed her as she placed one foot on the floor and then the other. The moment he managed to drag her up, she moaned hard and grabbed him for support as her knees were unable to hold her up.
"I am going to fall..." Eilin tried to regulate her breaths and her cheeks filled up with tears.
"I'm never going to let you fall, I am here. Hold onto me..." -he said and felt his voice breaking. Then his eyes looked anxiously at Dis- "Is this normal?"
"Yes, what did you think labour is? A bloody walk in the bloody park?" Dis frowned at him.
"This much pain?" he groaned instinctively when Eilin groaned and clutched onto him in anguish.
"This is just the tip of the iceberg wolf, now walk her around, gently like this...yes..." Dis instructed him around the large chamber.
"Maybe if I had delayed the coronation she would have been better..." Thorin rejoined feeling stunned.
Dis frowned. "What do you mean she would have been better? She's not bloody ill, she's giving birth. Do you think delaying the coronation would have also delayed the delivery? She's ready to pop, those babies need to come out now."
Thorin glowered at his sister, but bit his tongue in order to hold himself from making a rude comeback.
Eilin's nails pierced the skin on his shoulder and he hissed. "I didn't want to deliver our babies out of marriage...No!" -she grumbled and then she pressed her open mouth on his exposed skin and her deep painful moan sipped through his chest and straight in his heart in the form of a dagger- "Hold me!" She grumbled.
"I am not letting you go my heart, just another step..." he urged her and then looked at his sister terrified, forgetting how angry he had been with her a few moments ago.
Dis nodded at him to continue and then went to assist Loa and the girls who were preparing a clean bed, towels, warm water and the pillows for Eilin.
He didn't know how long he was walking her around talking nonsense into her ear, but it was long after the break of dawn that Eilin raised her sweaty face at him and shook her head. "No more, I cannot walk anymore Thorin, enough..." She begged.
"A few more steps back to the bed, okay?" He cooed her.
"No..." she sobbed and her tears stained his tunic and his soul.
He steadied her on his body and leaned down to her ear. "I can bet you my life both babies are going to look like me."
She humphed as he made her take another step. "Your certainty is killing me."
"My blood is too strong to overlook. They are both going to be black haired and blue eyed, mark my words!" He pulled her closer to the bed.
She stopped and heaved on his chest from exhaustion. "If our babies are born with your colours, I will feel blessed."
Her words took him by surprise. "I was only teasing you..."
"I am not teasing you though...you are gorgeous..." she pressed his forearm and squeezed her eyes tight as he forced her to take two more steps.
He reached the bed and pulled her on his body securely. "And you are absolutely mesmerising even though you are full of sweat, totally bloated and in dire need of a bath!"
Eilin chuckled and gripped his biceps tightly as she tried to ride out another excruciating contraction. "I know you love me and you are trying to make me forget, but it's impossible...the pain is getting worse."
Thorin paled and searched his sister's eyes. "Dis?" he hissed.
Dis signalled to the bed. "Bring her over, Loa needs to check on her."
He led Eilin slowly back to the bed. "What if she takes three days to bring the children out, like mother?"
Dis frowned. "She has let out most of her waters, she won't take three days. She's going to give birth today."
"Will the babies last without my waters?" Eilin's already broken countenance got enriched with a fresh wave of fear.
"They still have more than enough fluids to swim in my darling." -She told Eilin with a reassuring tone. Then she glared at her brother. "Lay her down gently...gently Thorin!"
"I am being gentle!" he rebuked.
"Calm down, you are not helping her!" his sister continued with austerity.
"You are the one who is making me nervous! What have I been doing all this time then, haven't I been helping her?!" He snapped.
Eilin gripped his forearm tightly. "Don't fight over me! Not now!" she hollered.
Dis pressed her lips. "She's right, now out!"
"What?" Thorin frowned.
Dis locked elbows with him and led him to the door steadily. "I said out. You did everything you could, now allow us women to handle this."
Thorin looked at Eilin above his shoulder. She laid her head back as the girls fixed her pillows and Loa lifted up her nightgown. "She asked me to stay." He said feeling already the great loser in a battle he had no idea how to fight.
Dis completely ignored him and opened the door. "You did enough. Now trust me with her, as I have trusted you with my children. Alright?"
Thorin grabbed the door frame not willing to go out. "Wait..."
"She's dilating more!" Loa cried.
Dis nodded. "I am coming" -then she turned to the livid face of her brother. "Allow me to do my job wolf. Eilin is already dilated, that means the babies are coming soon. She won't take three days like mom, stop worrying. Now go out with your friends and try to calm down. I will call you in the moment the babies are born. Okay?"
Thorin shook his head and looked back at Eilin whose beautiful face was twisted in a painful grimace. One of the girls placed a cool cloth on her forehead and wiped away her sweat gently. "No Dis, wait..." He tried.
"I said out!" Dis' pushed him and before he had the chance to do anything she crashed the door at his face. He remained looking at the wooden panel like a buffoon. It was Balin's voice that made him look away.
"How is she laddie?"
"They say she's dilated. Have no idea what that means..." he admitted.
Oin crossed his arms. "Means she is opening up so they babies can come out. That can become rather painful."
Thorin shuddered...hard. Dwalin grabbed him by the bicep and pulled him away from the door. "Come on, give her time. Let us walk a little." He engaged Thorin's elbow and started walking with him.
Thorin stopped and pulled his arm free. "Why are you walking me for?! I am not in labour, she is!" He cried and pointed at the door.
Dwalin exhaled through his nose. "You need to calm down."
"And allow them to do their job." Balin added and looked at Ori who rushed into Balin's room in order to get the bottles of mead.
"Did my sister just throw me out!?" Thorin remembered and looked at his doors in fury.
Dwalin engaged his elbow again and pulled him away from the doors. "Dis did what she had to do. It was always so in our culture. We plant our seeds in the wombs of our women, we fight for them, we protect them, we offer them shelter and love, but when the time comes for delivery we allow them to take over and wait...patiently...without bringing the house down in the process. Right?"
Thorin's eyes thinned on Dwalin, but he remained silent.
Ori came quickly and gave the bottle to Balin who unscrewed it and approached Thorin. "Part of our culture is also to keep you company until Eilin delivers, so don't expect us to leave anytime soon. We will all wait out here with you."
Thorin released his arm from Dwalin's grip again and humphed annoyed. He crossed his arms and leaned back against a wall feeling totally bewildered. Balin gave Dwalin a guarded look and passed him the bottle. Dwalin came over and leaned next to Thorin. He then raised the bottle and drank some, making sure he exhaled in pleasure loud enough to be heard by his highly irritated friend.
The King looked at him and then at the bottle.
"Want some? ..." Dwalin offered carelessly.
Thorin grabbed the bottle, looked at it for several moments and with Eilin's sweaty and pained countenance in mind, he emptied the whole of it in one go. Then he gave the bottle back to Dwalin. "I should stay out?" he muttered.
Dwalin got ready to answer, but his brother was faster. "Stay out laddie." He said calmly.
Thorin huffed and began pacing up and down the corridor, not feeling this mead touching him in the slightest. Actually he doubted that any quantity of alcohol would be able to touch him at that moment as he passed the closed doors of his chambers again and again. Each time he went by, he offered them a wrathful look of hatred and stopped himself at the last moment from bringing them down in order to be next to his wife at this unique moment in his life and probably the most painful in hers. Still each time he gave those doors a silent warning and moved past them, trying to decide if he wanted to respect his sister's advice, or fulfil his wife's request. He didn't have enough knowledge to judge if Dis was right or not. His friends insisted that he should stay out also. He felt uncertain. He didn't know if being next to her would help or hinder Eilin's tries to deliver his children.
So he left the doors untouched and paced up and down, not listening to the light conversation his friends were trying to make with him and stretching out his ears to overhear what was going inside the royal bedroom, but failing to hear anything more than muffled conversation and the occasional painful groan from his wife that send chills down his spine.
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