Thank you for the heads up about the technical issues...let try again
chp17
The four dwarves perceived an intense light that slowly dimmed so that they could see and were approached by a beautiful figure cloaked in shimmering white, although they were unafraid as a peaceful glow surrounded her. "Hello my brave warriors," my name is Este. "I am here to offer you rest and comfort before the next stage of your journey." Three of the dwarves were too in awe to do much; but, unsurprisingly, one dwarf had the courage to speak to the beautiful figure.
"My lady, thank you so much for all your fine comforts and hospitality. But I do have a question," said Kili. "How is it that I did not come here straightaway, like the others?" She studied him with surprise as she had never been addressed thusly, most mortals were too afraid to even gaze upon her countenance, but yes, he was right, thThis one was different. "Because, prince Kili, it was decreed that you should see and to feel." Kili thought to himself, "O-Kay," and gave a small puzzled eyebrow raise to the others, who returned it with equally puzzling looks.
Este continued, "Most warriors, when they pass, arrive here and happily stay in these special palaces until called upon by Aule. However, the four of your presences here presents an interesting and unprecedented...situation, shall I say." Again, the others were dumbstruck that this amazing being was treating them as such, as an equal almost, the way she was lightly conversing with them. "Aule, whom I believe you call Mahal, the maker and creator of most things that you know to be, was very distraught that all of you came to be here, together." She continued, "The last line of Durin's folk, his supreme creation and he was adamant that he would not let your line end," The four looked at each other in astonishment. "So, he went at once to Lord Manwe and they conversed for much time," Este said lastly, and then spoke no more. "Okay, well," said Thorin, "What was decided?" The others looked at each other in turn, but when they turned back around, the ethereal figure had gone.
They didn't have to wait long as another presence started to make itself felt, and this time the dwarves were not frightened but dumbstruck when the figure entered the chamber. "My children," Aule said upon entering, "You four have surpassed by greatest wishes in all your deeds and accomplishments and I could not be more proud." Kili and Fili had gotten on their knees, openly weeping, and hugging one another. Even battle hardened Thorin and Dain had fallen to their knees in reverence. "What would you have us do Mahal? Anything...we would do for you," Thorin cried. "It is my wish...that the line of Durin endure forever after; therefore, you must choose which of you four will return." "I will give you some time to decide...but know this, the one who comes back will not remember being here...but...will carry the pains of their battle wounds till the last of their days as payment and remembrance for the sacrifice of the other three."