Chapter 4 The Oak Tree
"Eurus, are you staying for lunch? We would be glad to have you join us, "said Tauriel. Kili and Tauriel was very close friend with the elf Eurus and his man's woman wife, Calliann. At Tiki's naming ceremony, they had Eurus and Calliann be their son's guardians.
The she-elf had opened the door to the small bridge that led to the tree platform. Tauriel found Kili and Eurus on the platform, talking about changing the bridge and platform. Kili and Tauriel had Eurus, the tree-shaper create a platform for the axis of their oak tree, which was part of their home. One side of the platform had the outside stairway, and the other side is the view of the stable. The platform was created for the two archers to stand on; so they could shoot at enemy from above, in case of attackers to the city of Logan, their neighbor. Little Logan have some magical protection stones surrounding their village, so they have no worry about being invaded. Last year, the platform was used to defend Logan from hill giants, and they succeeded in protecting their kin.
The she-elf looked behind her to make sure Tiki had not followed her. He had become more active, since he has learned to crawl. She had left Tiki in the bedroom, in a playpen that Aunt Susy had given her.
Kili told Tauriel, that he wanted to make a wall around the platform and bridge, so that Tiki would not fall off either one. Eurus and Kili stopped talking, and turn to the she-elf.
"Thank you, Tauriel. I would be honor to join you and your family for lunch, "replied Eurus, whose wife was visiting her family, in Logan. Tauriel smiled, and closed the door. Normally she would have left the door open, but she was scared Tiki would crawl out onto the bridge, and go to the platform.
"Tauriel make great salads, Eurus. I wish I can get use to eating them, "said Kili, with a smile. "Dwarves are use to eating meat in our meal, but I cannot get Tauriel to cook some meat for me. So, every now and then I take her to The Rusty Spoon to eat. We have not gone, since Tiki was born. So, I need to find someone to watch him, so we could go. Tauriel do not think it is proper for a baby to be in a tavern. "
"Why do you not go to the Blue Mountain Inn's tavern? I know someone there would watch your baby, while you eat there, "suggested the tree-shaper.
"Why did I not think of that? Thank you, Eurus. I will let Tauriel know that we will go tomorrow for lunch, "answered Kili.
Eurus laughed, and slapped Kili's back. They both heard a horse whinny, and looked down the back part of the platform to look at Kili's stable.
The bay horse was looking up at Kili and Eurus. Since three months ago, when Tiki calmed down the horse, the bay horse never attacked anyone again. The horse was being visited by Captain Patric, who fell in love with the horse. The Captain started calling the horse, Warrior, which the bay got use to being called. Within two days, Captain Patric will be taking the horse permanently, since he had already paid Kili for the horse. The Captain and Kili had been taking the horse to the castle's stable for the bay to get adjusted to the other soldiers and their mounts. They both feel he was close to being ready to move to his new home.
While Kili and Eurus talked outside on the platform, Tauriel went to check on Tiki, who was asleep in his playpen.
"That is unusual, Tiki you are taking an early nap, "said Tauriel, who placed a blanket over her six months old son, Tiki. After Tauriel left the bedroom, Tiki could hear his Ma going down the stairs. His eyes popped open, and the little half-elf giggled about tricking his Ma. Tiki closed his eyes again, when he heard his Da and someone else entered the home, from the funny door across the hall.
Kili was so busy talking to Eurus that he forgot to close the door to the bridge and platform. The two males walked down the stairs, unaware that Tiki was interested in the door.
Tiki's eyes opened again, and he could feel a slight breeze coming through the opened door to the bridge. Tiki quickly climbed up the bars of the playpen, and climbed over the rail. The small baby slid down the other side of the bars to the bedroom floor. Tiki swiftly crawled out of the bedroom, and stopped to listen to his parents and the other person, on the first floor. Then he continued on to the open door, and looked out. He could see the tree that their home was made from, which had many branches and leaves. Tiki looked at the bridge that led to the platform, and smiled. He carefully crawled onto the bridge, and looked around.
He saw how high up he was, but the baby was not scared. Tiki had never experience very high places, except for the banister, and he had learned that there are pillows to fall on. So, the baby knew if he falls, a pillow would keep him safe. Tiki slowly crawled out onto the platform, and heard the horses in the fenced area below. Tiki looked over the edge of the platform, and saw all six of the horses in the fenced yard. Kili had recently gotten two new horses, which were gentle spotted mares. The bay saw Tiki up on the platform, and started to neigh in a panic.
The baby laughed at the horse, then noticed a pretty red bird on the branch in front of him. So, Tiki slowly crawled onto the branch trying to reach the bird.
"Eurus, when can you start work on the walls for the bridge and platform? "asked Kili. Tauriel stopped eating when she heard the bay whinnying, at the stable.
"Kili, what is wrong with, Warrior? He sounds like he is upset about something, "said Tauriel, who got up to look out the back window. The she-elf could see the horses running around, like something were upsetting them, but she could not see what it was. Eurus and Kili got up, and looked out the window.
"Maybe we should check on your horses to see what is wrong, "said Eurus, who froze. Kili and Tauriel noticed the elf had his head tilted to one-side.
"Do you hear something, Eurus? "asked Kili.
"No, I feel something. I feel a breeze going through the room, "said Eurus, slowly. Tauriel's eyes got big, and she grabbed Kili's arm.
"Kili did you close the door to the bridge? "asked a worried she-elf.
"I do not remember, Tauriel, "said a frighten Kili.
"Tiki, "whispered Tauriel, with a sob.
The two elves and dwarf hurried out of the dining area, and up the stairway. They froze when they saw the door to the bridge, wide opened. Eurus, followed by Kili and Tauriel hurried onto the platform. They looked around the oak tree, and finally Eurus pointed out the baby, on a narrow branch over the stable. Tiki was holding on to the branch, and looking at the city of Logan. The bird had flown away, so the baby noticed the view of the city. Kili was going to crawl onto the branch to grab the baby, but Eurus and Tauriel stopped him.
"Kili, you are too heavy to crawl onto that branch. It will break, and both you and the baby will fall, "said a frighten Tauriel.
"Tiki, come here, son, "called Kili. "Come to your, Da. " Tiki turn to Kili, but just laughed.
"Tiki, please come to your Ma, "said a sobbing Tauriel. But the baby did not move toward his parents.
Eurus had been busy trying to think of a way to get to the baby. Then, he smacked himself in the forehead, and called himself a fool. The elf put his hand on the tree, and concentrated on a branch below the baby. He knew if he made the branch thicker that the baby was on, he might accidently make the baby fall. So he made a branch below Tiki, slowly snake up to the baby. Tiki noticed the branch slowly rising to him, and smiled. Tiki was fascinated by the moving branch, and did not move. Kili and Tauriel held their breath, as they watch the branch get closer to their son.
The branch was finally next to Tiki, and it slowly wrapped itself around the baby's body. It gently lifted the light weight baby, and slowly headed to Kili's out reaching hands. Finally, Kili grabbed a hold of Tiki, and slid the baby out of the branch's hold. The parents kissed and hugged the baby, as Eurus leaned against the oak tree.
The tired elf smiled, and asked, "Is the baby fine, Kili? "
"Yes, Eurus. Thank you for saving our baby's life, "said a teary-eyed Kili, as he hugged his son.
"Thank you, Eurus, "said Tauriel, who took Tiki from his father. The she-elf hugged the baby, as Eurus watched.
"Do you not discipline your child? "asked Eurus.
"Disciplined? " asked a stun Kili.
"Yes. Because if you do not, the child will continue to get into trouble, "explained the tree-shaper.
"But he is a baby, Eurus, "exclaimed Tauriel, who held Tiki.
"But how is he going to learn about right and wrong? "asked Eurus. Kili and Tauriel were quiet, while Eurus shook his head. The elf slowly went down the outside stairway, and called back, "I will get those walls started tomorrow, Kili, for the sake of your son. " Tauriel was visibly upset by Eurus' parting words 'for the sake of your son', and fumed. The tree-shaper left, before finishing his lunch.
"Do you think we should punish Tiki, Tauriel? "asked a reluctant Kili.
"And how do we punish a baby? Tiki did not know any better, about going onto the platform, "said an annoyed Tauriel. "Besides, it was your fault that Tiki was on the tree, in the first place. "
Tauriel realized she had hurt Kili deeply, when she accused him. His face went pale, and he would not look into her face. He turns to go through the bridge door, as Tauriel call out to him.
"Kili, wait! I did not mean what I said, "said an upset Tauriel, as Tiki noticed something was wrong with his parents.
"But you were right, Tauriel. It was my fault Tiki climbed into the tree. I almost got my child killed. I must be a terrible father, "said Kili, as he opened the door, and close it behind him. Tauriel hurried through the door, closing it quickly, and making sure it was latched. The she-elf and baby hurried to the bedroom, and saw Kili was packing his traveling bag.
"Kili, I do not want you to leave. I love you. "
"What if I do another foolish act to endanger our baby's life? I cannot live with myself, if I cause Tiki's death, "said a crying Kili, who sat on his bed, and put his hands to his face.
"I almost left the door open as well, Kili, "said Tauriel, who sat next to her husband. "I will make sure that you do not forget to close the door, if you make sure that I do not forget as well. "
Tiki reached out to Kili, and said, "Da da. " Kili looked over to his son, wiped his tears, and took the baby from his wife. He closed his eye, and hugged Tiki, who patted his father and was hushing him.
"Thank you, Tiki. I love you, son. Promise me that you will not climb a tree, until you are older, "said Kili, as he looked at his son. Kili kissed his son, and hugged him again. The dwarf turned to the she-elf, and said, "I love you too, Tauriel. "
"I love you very much Kili, but promise me that you will never leave me, "replied Tauriel, as she hugged her husband.
"I promise, Tauriel, "replied a sad Kili. Tiki's parents held each other, as the baby patted both his parents, and laid his head on his father's chest.
Chapter 5 Incident With A Stranger
Devie's son, Bombom and her daughter, Pady was playing chase, with the nine-month old Tiki, who had recently learn to walk. Bombur had a fenced play-area built, next to the entrance of his inn. Nine-year old Jady was watching them, while her mother went to get snack for the playing children. Bombom and Pady were laughing as Tiki chased after them. He was a very fast runner, which surprised the three young dwarves. He would quickly catch Bombom and Pady, and then they would chase after him. At first they had a hard time catching Tiki, but the baby realized that he had to slow down for them to tag him.
Jady felt that she was too old to play their game, but secretly she wanted to play with them. They were laughing, and running around with so much joy; that they did not notice a hooded person watching them play.
Nobody in Little Logan liked old Orla, who complained about everything. She always had coinage on her, but nobody knew where she got it. No one knew why she hanged around Little Logan, since she was a man's woman. And her appearance always scared most of the dwarves' children. The children think she was a witch, and was planning to eat one of them. With her dirty brown hair, broken teeth, and dirty fingernails, it is not a surprise everyone assume that she was a witch.
But Orla was more dangerous than a witch, because she was a slaver of children. She knew that there was a market for unusual children, and she had been watching Tiki for a while now. It is very rare for an elfling to be small, like Tiki was. So, Orla was waiting for the moment to snatch the child, before she could be stopped stealing him. Orla watched as Devie told Jady to watch the children, as she went to get them something to eat. The old hag waited a bit longer, and then slowly sauntered over to the fenced yard.
"What a beautiful child. Is he your brother? "asked a wide-eyed Orla. Bombom and Pady froze in fear, as Jady slowly moved away from Orla. Tiki looked at the ugly old woman, and smiled.
"No, Tiki is a friend of ours, "answered Jady, as she grabbed Bombom's arm. The young dwarves huddled close together, as Tiki watch the old woman, with curiosity.
"I wonder if he would like a toy I have here, "said Orla, who took a small wooden horse out of her cloak. She shows it to the baby, who made a big smile.
"Our Ma told us not to take anything from a stranger, "said Jady, defiantly. Devie's daughter saw too late, Tiki hurrying to get the toy.
"Tiki! No! "warned Pady, as the children stood in fear for the baby.
As Tiki was reaching for the toy, Orla grabbed Tiki into her arms. Tiki started crying, as the old woman hurried into the city of Logan. Jady, Pady, and Bombom ran inside of the inn, crying.
Kili and Tauriel were eating lunch, and talking to Bombur. Devie was coming out of the kitchen with a picnic basket for the children, when the children came in crying.
"What is wrong?! Where is Tiki?! "asked Kili, as he got up.
"The mean old witch took Tiki! "said a crying Bombom.
"What witch?! "asked Tauriel, in fear.
"Are you taking about that old woman, Orla? "asked Devie, from her children. Bombur was pale, and sputtering.
"Yes, Ma. She show Tiki a toy, and when he went to grab it, she grabbed him, "said Jady, crying.
"Where did the old woman go?! "asked a frighten Kili.
"Into Logan, "said Pady, who hurried over to her Ma. Devie held her children, as Kili, Tauriel, and Bombur hurried out of the inn.
"THORIN! "said Kili, as he ran in front of Thorin's forge. Thorin and Balin came out of the forge, and saw Kili, Tauriel, and Bombur running into Logan's main road. Kili pointed into the city for Bombur to go, while Kili and Tauriel headed for the gates of Logan.
Susy opened the front door, and saw Thorin and Balin. "What is happening, Thorin? "asked Susy, who was carrying little Xander.
"Something is wrong, so stay in the house, wife! "shouted Thorin. "Balin, you follow Bombur, while I follow, Kili and his wife. " Susy closed the door as Thorin had ordered, and held Baby Xander tightly, in fear.
"Yes, Thorin! "replied Balin, as he hurried to catch up with Bombur.
Orla was hurrying to the front gate, with Tiki crying in her arms. She would smile at people, who were noticing the crying baby.
"He needs to be fed, "said Orla with a smile to keep the people from knowing what was going on. Whispering to Tiki, with her smelly breath, Orla snarled, "Be quiet, you brat! " Orla was almost to the gate, when someone shouted at her.
"Hey! What are you doing with my kin's baby?! "yelled Dwalin, who was about to enter Chaden's marketplace.
The old woman turns and saw the bald dwarf. She took off running to the gate, as Tiki cried. Dwalin tackled the old hag, and they all fell onto the cobbled road of the marketplace. Orla landed on Tiki, hurting one of his legs. The old woman kicked the dwarf in the face, making Dwalin see stars. The slaver was mad at the dwarf and the baby for being so much trouble. Orla noticed that she had damaged the child, so decided to kill the baby. Tiki was crying over the pain in his leg, not knowing that the old woman had pulled out a dagger. Orla raised the dagger to stab the baby; when a throwing star imbedded itself into her hand, which had the dagger. Orla screamed, and threw the dagger behind her in reaction to the star in her hand.
Many individuals hurried to the baby, the old woman, and the groggy and injured dwarf. Kili hurried to Tiki, and picked him up, as Tauriel joined his side. Thorin hurried to Dwalin, and helped him stand. Griff and Steven took a hold of the old woman, as Ren approached her. Ren reached over and pull the throwing star out of the old woman's injured hand, then spit on her.
"She is not dead, Ren, "exclaimed Steven.
"She tried to kill Kili's son, "said a cold-eyed Ren, who was glaring at the old woman. Xander had asked a guard to go find Captain Patric. The wizard approached the group carefully. Xander wanted to make sure that they did not take the law into their own hands, and kill the old woman.
"Oh, that is a good excuse, "said Steven, who cuffed the old woman.
"Steven, shame on you, "said a stony Griff.
"My hand slipped, "said a smiling Steven. The old woman snarled and fought the men, as they held her. The dwarves were checking the baby, and they noticed the bruises on Tiki's leg.
"What did you do to my son, you old hag?! "snarled Kili.
"I fell on him, thanks to that bald fool! I hope I broke that brat's leg! "snapped Orla, as she glared at Kili. Mer had just arrived, and heard the old woman.
"My husband maybe bald, but he is not a fool! "returned Mer. She blushed at what she had just said, and was trying to apologize to Dwalin, who was smiling. Mer noticed Dwalin's face, and gasped. "Dwalin, your nose is bleeding! My poor darling! Does it hurt?! "
"Oh? Uh…aye…it hurts a lot, Mer, "replied Dwalin, as he winked at Thorin. Thorin smiled, and shook his head.
"Thank you, Dwalin! "shouted Kili, as he handed Tiki to Tauriel. Dwalin was being led away by his fussing wife.
"Whenever you need me, Kili, "said a smiling Dwalin, as Mer worried over her husband.
Captain Patric finally arrived, with three soldiers. Xander, Thorin, and Kili hurried over to talk to the Captain, to tell about the whole incident with Tiki and the old woman. When Orla saw the Captain, she started shaking in fear. After hearing the story of the kidnapping, Captain Patric was furious.
"Take that witch to the dungeon of the castle! We will let all know what we do to people, who steal children! "ordered the Captain. Orla was screaming, and fighting the soldiers, as Steven and Griff tried to wipe their hands clean. Captain Patric bowed to the group, and followed his men, who were taking the fighting Orla to the castle.
"Is it me, or did that old woman smell. I am going to have to take a bath to get her stench off of me, "declared Steven, as he watched the fighting Orla being dragged away.
"Am I hearing things? Or did Steven say he was going to take bath, "teased Ren.
"Well, that is the only good deed that hag committed, "said Griff, as Steven glared at his companions.
"Take Steven to that new bath house, with the pretty girls, who hands out the towels, "said Xander.
"That is right! "said a happy Steven. "Come on Griff and Ren, you two need a bath as well! " Griff extended a hand to Xander, who sighed, and gave the axe man two silver coins. Griff and Ren tried to catch up with the excited Steven, who took off running. Xander smiled, and then hurried over to the others.
"How is your son, Kili? "asked the worried wizard, as he noticed that the baby was still crying.
"His leg looks very bad. We are heading toward Sebastian, "said Kili, as he took Tiki and hurried through the marketplace.
Many of the citizens had been watching what had happened with Orla, Tiki, and Dwalin. At first, the crowd was angry with the dwarf for knocking down the old woman. But when they found out the old woman was stealing the baby, opinion turned against her quickly. Some of the people felt guilty for not stopping the woman, with the crying baby. They knew the child was not hers, but they did not want to get involve. They slowly went back to their shopping, but were changed by the whole incident. Now, they will get involve, when things were not right.
Sebastian heard his name called out, and hurried to the front room of his hovel. He recognized Xander's voice, and knew something was wrong. In came Kili, who was carrying a crying Tiki, who had a purple leg. Thorin and Xander were escorting a crying Tauriel, as they followed the dark-haired dwarf.
"What happened to Tiki? "asked a concern Sebastian, who had Kili laid his son on a cushioned covered table. The healer put his hands on the purple leg, and slowly removes some of the pain to calm down the baby.
"A horrible old woman tried to steal Tiki. Dwalin stopped her, and the woman fell on Tiki's leg. Is it broken, Sebastian? "asked a worry Kili. Tauriel took a hold of Kili's arm, who felt his wife and put his arm around her. Tauriel wiped her tears, as Thorin and Xander stood behind the couple, waiting.
"No, it is not broken, but it is badly bruised. It will take time for me to feel for the injuries in his leg, and repair what damaged there is. Do you want to leave and come back? "asked a smiling Sebastian, as Tiki stopped crying.
"No! "shouted Kili and Tauriel, as they looked in shock at the healer's words.
"Sebastian, stop teasing Kili and Tauriel, "said an annoyed Xander. Thorin smiled, and shook his head at the healer.
"Then, please sit down, and stop looking over my shoulder. You make it difficult for me to concentrate on Tiki's hurt leg, "said a smiling Sebastian. Kili and Tauriel sat on a bench, and watched the healer as he worked on healing their son.
"Are you alright, Kili and Tauriel? "asked Thorin.
"Yes, Thorin. Thank you for your help, "said Kili, as he smiled at his uncle.
"Then, I better go find Balin and Bombur, and let them know that you have your son back. Come by and visit soon, because your aunt misses your visits, "added Thorin, who patted Xander's back. Thorin told Sebastian farewell, and left the hovel.
"I better go check on the others. But if you ever need me Kili you know where I am, "said Xander, as he waved to the exhausted parents of Tiki. Xander left to see what troubles Steven was getting into.
"Kili, our baby will from now on go inside a tavern. Or I can cook you some fish for your meal. But no one will watch over our baby, except us, "said Tauriel, as Kili smiled at his wife.
"I will cook my meat, while you make the meal, Tauriel, "answered a smiling Kili, as he hugged his wife.
Kili and Tauriel stayed at Sebastian from lunch until suppertime. The couple thanked Sebastian, after he healed Tiki's leg. The half-elf baby fell asleep from all of the excitement and pain he had experience that day. Then, Kili and Tauriel took their sleeping baby, back to their home. Sebastian smiled as he watched the couple leave, and then went inside to eat his meal and rest.
Chapter 6 Tiki's Birthday Celebration
Tiki's celebration was being held at Thorin and Susy's garden, back of their home. Susy had a wooden rocking horse made for Tiki, as his first year birthday gift. Bifur did a great job carving the rocking horse; it looked so much like the grey mare, Mist. Susy had it placed in the middle of the backyard. She had a hard time keeping Little Xander away from Tiki's present. Susy covered the present with a huge cloth, so Tiki would not see it until it was unveiled. She was glad Bombur and Devie's children were there to keep Little Xander entertained, so he would leave the present alone.
Devie and Mer were helping Susy get all the food ready for the celebration, in the kitchen of her home.
"Is there enough vegetables for Eurus and Calliann, Tiki's guardians? "asked Susy.
"Oh, yes. And plenty for you, Tauriel, Lilybelle, and me, as well, "replied Mer. "I do not understand why the men do not like vegetables. " Susy and Devie laughed.
"Is not Xander and his friends coming? "asked Devie.
"Pull out some more vegetables, Mer from my food bag. You know how big Steven's appetite is, "said a smiling Susy.
The females laughed. They exited the kitchen carrying food in bowls, and placing the food on the big table outside. The women were sorting out the food, putting out plates, mugs, serving spoons, and silverware. They noticed the decorations for the celebration around the table. Devie's daughters: Grady, Jady, and Pady made the decorations for the party, and was putting them up. They made paper horses, birds, butterflies, and other animals and insects to hang from the trees and bushes. Taffy was helping the girls hang decoration on the lower branches.
Bombom and his twin brothers, Tade and Wade were playing with the twenty-two months old, Xander. They were playing chase, and laughing as they ran.
Bade, Cade, Gade, and Nade were helping their father, Bombur and Dwalin put out chairs for the guest. Thorin and Balin were putting out small tables for the children to eat on. Thorin and Balin smiled, when they heard little Xander laughing, with glee.
Thorin heard knocking on the front door, and hurried to answer it. Xander and his friends arrived with some small toys for Tiki. They laughed and talked with Oakenshield, as they follow the dwarf to the garden. Thorin heard knocking again, and excused himself. Xander, Griff, Ren, and Steven sat at the outside table, watching the children play.
"I cannot believe how much Little Xander grown, Xander, "said a surprised Griff.
"Good thing that he does not look anything like you, "teased Ren, as Steven laughed.
"Why are you my friends? "asked an annoyed Xander, who was watching his godson, Little Xander playing. The three men laughed at the wizard, who glared at them.
Thorin hurried to the front door, and found Fili and Lilybelle at the door.
"Greeting Thorin! How are my Aunt Susy and Little Xander? "asked Fili.
"Well, if you visit more often, then you would know, "teased Thorin. Lilybelle laughed at Thorin's words, and gave him a quick peck on his cheek, as she carried Tiki's gift. "The celebration is in the garden. "
The couple quickly went to the garden behind the house. But before Thorin could close the door, Kili, carrying Tiki arrived with Tauriel and their friends, Eurus and Calliann.
"Well, here come the one year old baby, "said a smiling Thorin, as he indicated to them to enter his home. The group greeted Thorin, then headed to where the celebration was about to start. Kili noticed that Tiki, wanted to go play with the boys. He was fighting to get down, so Kili put him down.
"Boys, keep Tiki away from the brook. I do not want him falling in, "warn Kili.
"Alright, Kili! "answered Tade, as he started chasing the others.
"Tade, let us play 'find the fox', "said Bombom.
"Alright, Bombom. But you get to be the hunter, and I will tell Xander and Tiki how to play, "said Tade. Bombom covered his eyes, as he waited for Tade to let him know when they are ready. Grabbing Tiki and Xander, Tade and Wade took them not far from the brook.
The brook was an offshoot of the river Cris, which comes from a distance mountain. The river flowed east in front of the fishing shack that King Edward owns. Then it turns sharply into the opposite direction, going west in front of Little Logan, and Bombur's inn. The brook came from the turn in the river, and flowed into a large pond, next to the main road of Logan. The running brook was next to Thorin and Susy's home.
"Listen Xander and Tiki, and I will tell you how to play 'find the fox'. We are foxes, and Bombom is the hunter. We go hid, and when it looks like Bombom is close to finding us. We run to the foxes' den, which is under the table. Now, go hid, "said Tade. Wade took off to hide behind a bush near the forge. Tade hid next to the fence, behind a tree. Xander and Tiki went to Susy's wash tub next to the brook, and climb inside. The two toddlers were trying not to laugh, as they heard Tade said that they were ready. Bombom was slowly looking through the bushes, and saw Tade who ran to the table. Devie saw Tade go under the table.
"Tade, get out from under the table! We are about to eat, and you will be in the way, "scold Devie, as she pulled her son out.
"But Ma, we are playing 'hid the fox', "whined Tade. Wade came running up to his Ma, and laughed at Bombom.
Kili and Fili were laughing about seeing Pig-faced Pri and Kayla in the marketplace, fighting over a loaf of bread. Their husbands had to pull them apart.
"Tade, where is Tiki? "asked a concern Kili, as he looked around the yard.
"I do not know. They are supposed to be hiding from Bombom, "said Tade, as he, his brother, and Devie also looked around. They noticed Bombom heading near the wash tub, and Devie was about to call out to her youngest son.
"I see you! "shouted Bombom, as Xander jumped up from hiding. Xander tripped, and tilted the tub, making it slide toward the brook. Tiki fell against the wall of the tub. Bombom grabbed Xander, and pull him out of the tub, which righted itself, and slid into the brook. Tiki head popped up, and saw that the tub was floating away from Oakenshield's garden.
"TIKI! "screamed Kili, as he and Fili ran to the brook. Everyone ran to the rushing brook, and watched the tub heading for the large pond. Griff and Ren were running beside the brook, and jumped the neighbor's fence. At the end of the neighbor's yard was the pond. Griff and Ren dove into the water, and swam toward a crying Tiki, who wanted his Da. Kili was frantic, as Tauriel joined his side. Eurus had run behind Griff and Ren, and had jumped the neighbor's fence, as well. He waited for the two adventurers to push the wash tub back to shore.
Griff and Ren caught up to the tub, and Ren told Tiki, "Do not cry, Tiki. Griff and I are going to give you a boat ride. Just sit down, and we will take you back to your Da and Ma. Alright? "
Sniffling, Tiki said, "Uhhuh. "
He sat down in the wash tub, and waited to get back to his parents. Griff and Ren slowly pushed the tub toward where Eurus waited, since they did not want to accidently tilt the tub over. It took only a few minutes, but for the watching group it seems like hours. Finally they went aground at the neighbor's backyard, and Eurus quickly grabbed Tiki. He hurried to the fenced to give Tiki to his waiting parents. Kili quickly grabbed Tiki from Eurus, and Tauriel hugged and kissed her baby. Eurus jumped the fence with ease, and watched as the two soaked men walked to the fence.
"Here is your wash tub, Thorin, "said a smiling Griff. Thorin told Griff and Ren 'thank you', and took the tub.
"Griff, I am too tired to jump this fence. Push me over, "said a smiling Ren.
"I was going to ask you the same thing, Ren, "replied a laughing Griff. Then, both drenched men were floating up into the air, and over the fence to land gently on the ground. They looked over to Xander, who smiling at his two friends. Susy brought over two very thick towels for the men to dry with. She gave them both a kiss, and thanked them for saving Tiki. Her kiss set the other females to storm the men, and give them kisses in gratitude. That made Fili and Dwalin frown, except for Kili, who understood Tauriel's kisses. And Bombur, who knew Devie was very loyal to him. Devie hurried to Bombom, and gave his bottom a hard pat. Susy hurried over to Devie, to tell her that it was an accident, that it was not Bombom's fault. Thorin went and got Little Xander, and blessed Aule for keeping his son safe.
"Kili, when Tiki is old enough, Ren and I will teach Tiki how to swim, "said Griff.
"I want to be there, when you do, Griff, "said Kili, as he hugged the axe man.
"I want you to teach, Xander as well, "said Thorin.
"And I will be there when you do, "said Xander, with a frown.
Griff looked at Ren, who said, "We are not planning of drowning these children, Xander. "
Thorin laughed, and said, "Please come and sit down, gentlemen. You deserve a feast. "
"Then, I want barbecue ribs, "said a teasing Ren.
"I as well, "added Griff, with a smile.
Susy got up, and hurried into the dining area, where she had left her food bag. She came out carrying a big platter full of barbecue ribs, and placed it in front of Griff and Ren, who smiled.
"I was joking, "said a smiling Ren, as he inhales the aroma from the ribs.
"I was not, "replied Griff, who was licking his lips.
"Do you want me to take the platter away? "asked a smiling Susy.
"No! "said Griff and Ren. Steven tried to grab a rib, but Ren hit his hand.
"Hey! Do I not get any? "asked Steven.
"You are dry. What does that tell you? "teased Ren. Griff and Ren laughed, as Steven pouted.
"And everybody accused me of being mean to Steven, "said a laughing Xander. Everyone laughed, and Ren filled a plate with ribs, and handed it to a surprised Steven. Steven could not get enough food, and everyone watch him with surprise. For being a slender man, he could eat a lot of food.
"I think Steven can out eat my Bombur, "said a smiling Devie, as she watched the pole-axe fighter eat. The younger children were eating at a table just for them. Bombur and Devie's five oldest were eating with the elders.
Tiki wanted to stay with his parents, so Thorin brought a special chair for him. Tiki was eating anything his parents would give him. Tauriel was giving him vegetables, while Kili would sneak a little bit of meat for the baby. The she-elf would scold her husband, as he and the baby laughed at Tauriel, who was pretending to be angry. Tauriel would look at her husband and baby, and never felt so happy.
"You must be very happy, Tauriel. It shows on your face, "said Susy, who was sitting next to the she-elf.
Tauriel turn to Thorin's wife, and replied, "I almost went on the ship to leave Middle-Earth, after Kili died. I am so happy I did not. If I had left these lands, I would not be married to my darling Kili, and had my wonderful son, Tiki. "
"I know the feeling. If I was not been brave enough to escape Ravenel's camp, no telling where I would be right now, "said a smiling Susy. " I am so lucky to have Thorin as my husband, and grateful for my son, Xander. I was hoping to give Thorin more children, but I am probably too old to do that. " The two females smiled at each other.
"Here is a toast to Tiki, for making it through his first year of birth. From what Kili and Tauriel had told me, he had a very rocky first year. Hopefully, Tiki have out grown his father's recklessness, and have many more years to come, "said Thorin. Fili had punched and grabbed Kili's shoulders, and then shook him, when Thorin said how reckless Kili was. Kili smiled, and raised his mug to his son, who was laughing.
Knocking was heard on the front door, and Thorin hurried to answer it. He opened the door, and found Bofur and Bifur carrying a sack with them.
"You two are very late. We had started feasting already, "said Thorin, who smiled at the cousins.
"We could not get Pig-face Pri and Kayla out of our shop. They are expecting their first child, and could not make up their mind what they wanted for their babies, "said Bofur, as Bifur nodded. Thorin escorted the cousins to the back garden, as all exclaim to be please to see the late arrivals. Devie quickly sat down her kin, and fill up some plates for Bofur and Bifur.
"You miss the excitement here, brother, "said Bombur. Bofur and Bifur turn to Bombur, waiting to hear the tale. "Little Xander and Tiki was hiding in Lady Susy's wash tub. Xander fell out of the tub, and the tub fell into the brook. Tiki was inside the tub, and it floated to that big pond over there. Griff and Ren ran and jumped into the water, and swam to rescue Tiki. They pushed the tub back to shore, and Eurus brought Tiki to Kili and Tauriel, "finished Bombur, as Bofur and Bifur mouth dropped in amazement.
"Is Tiki alright? "asked Bofur, as his cousin looked over to Kili.
"He is fine, but frighten by the whole thing, "said Kili, as he bit into a roasted turkey leg.
"Griff and Ren offered to teach Tiki and Xander how to swim, "stated Fili.
"Why do they not throw the babies into the water? That is how we learn, "said Bofur.
"NO! "shouted Kili and Tauriel. Everyone laughed at the upset parents of Tiki.
"That is not happening, Bofur. I do not want my son to learn that way. I rather they get use to the water, and learn slowly how to swim, "stated Thorin, who gave Bofur a look that made him apologized.
"I am sorry I even suggested it, Kili…Thorin, "said a sheepish Bofur.
"Stuff your mouth with food, Bofur, "suggested a laughing Bombur. Bofur proceeded to do what his brother suggested.
After everyone finish eating, Susy said it was time to give Tiki his gifts. Bombur and Devie gave Tiki a small herd of wooden horses, so he can pretend to be his Da. Dwalin and Mer gave the half-elf a small fishing rod and bag for any fish he caught. Griff, Ren, and Steven gave some wooden soldiers, which they have gotten from Xander.
Xander gave wooden miniatures of Thorin and his twelve dwarves, which looked so much like them. Tiki laughed as he saw the one that looked like his Da. Eurus and Calliann gave Tiki a bow and quiver, with blunted arrows. Fili and Lilybelle gave Tiki a wooden sword, but Fili made Tiki promise not to hit anyone with it. Tiki laughed at his uncle, Fili, who gave him ideas for his sword. Balin gave the matching shield to go with the sword.
Bofur asked Thorin and Susy to give their gift first. So, Thorin brought the rocking horse that Susy had suggested as a gift. Thorin uncovered the wooden horse, and everyone was delighted. Then Bofur and Bifur pulled out of the sack a small saddle and rein, to go with the wooden horse. They place the saddle and rein on the horse, and Kili put Tiki on the saddle. He started rocking and laughing, as everyone smiled at the baby.
"Thank you all for the gifts for my son, Tiki. Tauriel and I appreciate your love and support for our son. And very special thank you to Griff and Ren, who risk their lives to rescue our son, "said a happy Kili.
"Thank you all, "said Tauriel, as she smiled at everyone.
"Risk your lives? "asked Steven, as he looked at Griff and Ren.
"Steven, do you not know that there is a thirty pound catfish in the pond. It is big and mean. It had already tried to bite two fishermen already, "said a serious Xander.
"Were they using fishing poles? "asked Steven.
"Well, yeah, "answered Griff.
"I can get rid of that catfish, and eat it for supper as well, "declared Steven.
"I wish someone would, "said Susy. "That fish scares me. I am worried that one day, it will swallow Little Xander. "
"I left my halberd in the gathering room. Let me go get it, "said Steven, as his friends looked at the womanizer and laughed. When Steven came out with his pole-axe, everybody was watching him as he jumped the neighbor's fence. The womanizer stood next to the pond, as the neighbor old Dolen came out of his house. He stood watching Steven, wondering what the man was up to.
"Xander, make something flutter over the water near me! "shouted Steven. Everybody got up to watch, as some of the elders held up the smaller children so they could see.
The wizard smiled, and created an imaginary bird fluttering in front of Steven, whom stood quietly, with his pole-axe in his right hand. For two minutes, nothing happened and Xander was going to stop, but Steven told him not to. Then before everyone's eyes a giant thirty-pound catfish leaped up out of the pond, to eat the imaginary bird. The children and some of the women screamed, when the creature flew out of the water.
Steven quickly swung his halberd across, and cut the catfish in two. The catfish fell into the water, and Dolen hurried with a net, and fished the two pieces of the catfish out. He held the net up, and everyone cheered at Steven, who bowed at the crowd.
"And that is how you fish for catfish, "said Steven, who walked over to the fence. Dolen followed with the net.
"That is the most amazing thing, I have ever seen, "said Dolen. Xander brought the empty platter to the fence to receive Steven's catfish, as Steven jumped the fence. Dolen dumped the big catfish onto the platter, which the wizard almost dropped. Dolen waved to the group, and headed home.
"So, who is going to cook Steven's catfish for him? "asked Xander, as he placed the fish on the table.
"I will, "said Griff. "I love preparing and cooking fish. Will you share the fish with us, Steven? "
"Of course, Griff. I will share with anyone who wants a share, "said a proud Steven.
"I want some for my home, Steven, "said Bombur, who was rubbing his hands.
Steven nodded, as everyone took a closer look at the monster fish.
"I am so glad that fish is gone, "said Susy, as she looked at the catfish. Thorin was showing Little Xander the fish, and laughed at his son's eyes was growing bigger.
"Uh…Steven? "asked Fili.
"Yes, Fili? "asked Steven.
"Would not killing the fish with your weapon, make it smell like fish? "wondered Fili.
The color drained from Steven's face, as he slowly sniffs the blade of his electrical halberd carefully. Steven made a face, which made everyone laughed.
"Do not worry, Steven. I can remove the smell, "said a smiling wizard. Xander patted Steven's back, as they looked at the catfish. Kili turn to Tauriel, as he held Tiki.
"Tauriel, I think this is one birthday that Tiki will never forget, "said Kili, as Tauriel hugged her husband and baby.