Chapter 12 Thror
This was a day that Tiki will never forget, the day his Aunt Susy needed help. His Ma, Tauriel was helping her sister-in-law, Lilybelle, who was hired to do housework at Oakenshield. The hobbit needed to clean her own home, since she had been so busy with Thorin and Susy's house. So, Tauriel offered to do Lilybelle's work for one day, at Oakenshield. Susy was already eight month with child, and Thorin did not want her doing any kind of work. So, Tauriel had brought Tiki to play with Little Xander, as she cleaned the house. The she-elf really did not have much to do, since Susy and Lilybelle always kept Oakenshield so clean. The problem was cooking, since Thorin expected meat on his table. Susy had told Tauriel, that she will handle the meat, while Tauriel handle the rest of the meal. But the she-elf told her 'no', because Thorin had told Tauriel not to let Susy do anything. That morning at her home, Tauriel had told Kili her problem, and he had offered to come by before lunch, and cook the meat for Tauriel. Tauriel smiled at her husband, for being so caring.
So, close to lunch, Kili had arrived at Oakenshield. He knocked on the door, and Tauriel let him in. Kili noticed the house was quiet, and Tauriel was wearing an apron. The dark-haired dwarf thought his wife looked lovely, and smiled.
"Tauriel, where is everyone? "asked a confused Kili, as he entered the home.
"Thorin and Balin are in the forge. Tiki and Little Xander are playing in the garden. And Aunt Susy is in her bedroom, trying to knit a blanket for the baby. The poor thing gets so upset, because her blanket is always coming out crooked, "said a smiling Tauriel. "Are you here to cook the meat for lunch? "
"Yes, Tauriel. What do you have as meat for today? "asked Kili, who had followed his wife into the kitchen.
"You need to pull the meat out of the food bag, Kili. Can we get a food bag? I see how easy it is to get nice vegetables and fruits from there. The vegetables and fruits I have been getting at the marketplace had been very small and thin, "said Tauriel.
"It is this dry weather, which does not help the crops, "answered Kili, as he got the food bag.
Kili stuck his hand into the food bag, and pull out a platter with large round steaks to cook. He looked at Tauriel, and said, "I will ask Petey the Peddler, about the prices of the food bags. Maybe we can get an offer we can afford, if we let Balin haggle the price for us. So, are we having potato rolls for lunch today, Tauriel? "
"I forgot the potato rolls, "said Tauriel, who was removing the apron. "Susy had been craving potato rolls, and Little Xander ate the last one this morning. I need to go get some more rolls. And since you are here, Kili, you can watch Tiki and Xander for me. "
"Alright, Tauriel, "said Kili, as Tauriel kissed him. "I love you, wife. "
"I love you, husband, "said a smiling Tauriel, who grabbed Susy's shopping basket. The she-elf quickly grabbed a small purse inside the shopping basket; Susy had left the small purse, with coinage to purchase things at the shops. Tauriel hurried to Mer's Bakery, so she can finish lunch.
Kili put a steak on a cutting board, and was throwing salt on the meat. He found something that look like a hammer, and started beating the steak. Bombur had shown Kili how to prepare and cook his meat. But Kili has a habit of getting carried away when doing things. The steak was very uneven by Kili hammering. The dwarf had turned the steak on its other side and started to hit it, when he heard his Aunt Susy calling for Tauriel. Kili wiped his hands on his clothes, and went into the dining area. The dwarf froze, when he saw his Aunt Susy slowly climbing down the stairs. The front part of her skirt had blood on it.
Hurrying to his aunt, Kili asked, "What had happen to you, Aunt Susy? Why do you have blood on your skirt? " Kili helped his aunt make it down the stairs into the gathering room.
"Where is Tauriel? I am having the baby now, "said Susy, as she slowly walked to the dining area. She was lucky that she was in the bathroom, when her water broke. Susy entered the dining area, and Kili pulled out a chair for her. But Susy would not sit in the chair, and stood breathing heavily.
"Tauriel went to Mer's Bakery to get your potato rolls. Do you want to seat down? "asked a scared Kili.
Susy shook her head, and made a faced when a contraction hit her. Smiling at Kili, Susy said, "If you want to help me, Kili. Go get Sebastian, and bring him here. "
"Yes, Aunt Susy. I will bring the healer as fast as I can, "answered Kili, who quickly went out the house running. Susy sighed, and headed for the garden door. She needed Thorin and Balin's help, in case Sebastian does not come in time. Susy opened the door, and went out into the garden. It was a lovely day, and she could hear the birds singing. Susy was following the path toward the forge, when Tiki almost ran into her. He was playing battle with Little Xander, with their wooden swords. Susy was quick enough to put her hand out to catch Tiki, who looked surprise at his Aunt Susy.
"I am sorry, Aunt Susy, "said Tiki. Then he noticed the blood on her skirt. "I hurt my Aunt Susy! " Tiki was crying, when Little Xander hurried to his Ma and Tiki.
"No, Tiki. You did not hurt me. I caught you before you could bump into me, "said a smiling Susy, as she stood next to the outside table. She gently wiped the tears off Tiki's face.
"Ma?! "cried Little Xander, with fear. He had seen the blood, as well.
"Xander, I want you and Tiki to go to your room, and play there. Your Ma is about to have your baby brother, that is why I have blood on my clothes. This is part of having a baby, so please go to your room. "
"Yes, Ma. Come on, Tiki, "said Little Xander, who was scared for his Ma. The two lads quickly ran to the son's dormitory.
Susy had watched the lads entered the house, and turn in time to see Thorin, Balin, and Xander the wizard come out of the forge, running toward her.
"I heard Tiki screamed out that he had hurt you, Susy. If he did, I will punish that child! "snapped Thorin, who had fear in his eyes.
"He did not hurt me, Thorin. I am having the baby right now, that is why I have blood on me, "said an angry Susy.
"Where is Tauriel? "asked Thorin.
"Kili said she had gone to the bakery, "said Susy, who moaned.
"Where is Kili? "asked Thorin, as he looks at his wife.
"Kili went to get Sebastian. I sent the children to Xander's room, "said Susy, who was breathing heavy again. Thorin's wife bends forward, and made a face. "Oh no! "
Thorin grabbed his wife's shoulders, and yelled, "What wife?! What is wrong?! "
"The baby is coming out, "said a surprise Susy, as she held on to the table. Xander looked pale, as Balin went to his Little One's side.
"Put it back! Put it back! "screamed a panicking Thorin.
"Are you crazy?! "snapped an angry Susy, as Balin tried not to laugh. "I ought to slap you in the head for saying something so stupid! "
Thorin turn to Xander, grabbing him and asking, "What should we do Xander? You are a wizard! "
"Wizard…not a healer, Thorin! Uh…we boil water! "said a worried Xander, who remember what they did in movies about boiling water, when someone is having a baby.
Balin patted Susy's back, and winked at her. Turning to the two panicking males, he said, "Thorin, you go boil some water. And Xander you go get some towels in the kitchen. "
"Boil water?! Yes, Balin! "answered Thorin, as he turns and crashed into Xander, who realized what Balin had just said. Thorin and Xander fought to go through the garden door, and finally went inside.
Balin sigh, and laughed a bit. Turning to Susy, he said, "Is your pool in your comfort room a healing pool, Little One? "
"Yes, Balin, "said a tiring Susy. Balin, grabbed Susy by the waist, and turns her toward the house. They entered the house slowly, and Balin closed the garden door.
"Then, you should go there in case your baby gets born before Sebastian gets here, "stated Balin, who was gently walking Susy into the dining area. They could hear the fighting going on in the kitchen, between Thorin and Xander. Balin shook his head, smiling. They were walking through the gathering room, as they heard Xander telling Thorin, "Thorin, you have to put water into the pot, so you can boil it! "
"Do not yell at me, Xander! My wife is having a baby! "
"Where are the towels?! "
"It is not my kitchen! "
"It is your house! "
Balin and Susy started laughing, as they slowly went up the stairs. They made it to the second floor, and slowly headed to the bathroom. The small dwarf helped his Little One go into the bathroom, and closed the door. Susy had stepped out of her slippers, and Balin helped her walk to the pool.
"Rosetta, warmer water, "said Susy.
"Rosetta is in the comfort room? "asked Balin.
"Yes, when she gets tired of being in the crystal, she comes here. It reminds her so much of her cave, "said Susy, who slowly entered the pool. Balin helped her slowly ease into the pool, as she asked for warmer water again.
"I think I better go with you in the water, Little One, "said Balin, who knows the laws about touching another dwarf's wife, inappropriately.
"Do not worry, Balin. I will handle myself, and hand you the baby when he is born, "said Susy, who was modestly removing her under garment.
Susy felt the healing waters caress her body, and remove most of the contraction pains. She could feel the head of the baby, and knew the baby will be born soon. Susy felt another contraction, and wait for it subside. She felt something small exited her body. Susy looked in the water of the pool, and saw her baby. The healing pool was gently cleaning the baby, who was kicking his legs. The healing water made the umbilical cord and placenta shrink and detach itself from the baby. She reached in and pulled out her son, Thror, who started crying when he exited the comfort of the pool.
"Balin, Thror is a lot smaller than Xander was when he was born. Maybe that is why he was born more quickly, "said Susy, as she showed Balin the baby.
"He looks to be a true dwarf. He does look a bit like King Thror. So, it seems that you gave him the proper name, Little One, "stated Balin. "Let me go get a towel to dry him with. " Balin exited the pool, and went to a cupboard, that Susy had a number of towels on. He got two towels, and headed back to the pool.
"Balin, why did you send Thorin and Xander to the kitchen, to boil water and get towels? "asked Susy.
"What better way to get them out of your hair? "answered a smiling Balin, as he bends down, and took the baby from his Little One. Balin smiled as he took the baby to a table near the pool; he put Thror on the table, and gently dried the baby. He could hear the front door banged opened, as Kili arrived with Sebastian.
"Thank you, Balin. I was about to hit my husband, "said Susy, as she rested in the healing pool. They could hear someone approaching the bathroom, as Thorin yelled at Kili for banging the front door.
Kili yelled back, "Where is Aunt Susy?! "
Sebastian was laughing when he opened the door to the bathroom, and Balin and Susy looked at the healer. The healer left the door opened, and they could see Little Xander and Tiki peeking out of the door from the dormitory, toward the panic in the gathering room.
"Did you have any problems, Lady Susy, "asked the smiling healer, who entered the pool.
"Only with my husband, "said a smiling Susy. Sebastian touched Susy's stomach, and nodded his head.
"There seem to be no after effect from the birth. I assume it was an easy birth? "asked Sebastian.
"Some pain, but it went away after I entered the pool. The baby came quick and easy, "said a surprised Susy.
"Good. I think Thorin was worried that you would have trouble birthing, like when you had Little Xander, "stated the healer. "You should stay in the pool a bit longer for it to help heal and clean you after the birthing. " Susy nodded, as Sebastian left the pool. He headed for the drying area. They could hear Thorin, Xander, and Kili calling for Susy.
Balin had finished drying the baby, and was wrapping it in the other towel. He noticed Little Xander and Tiki, looking toward the bathroom.
"Xander, tell your Da that your Ma is in the comfort room, "ordered Balin, as he held Baby Thror. Little Xander hurried to the top of the stairs, with Tiki. He could see his Da, Kili and Xander looking everywhere for his Ma. Thorin was carrying a pot full of water, Xander had kitchen towels in his hand, and Kili was empty-handed.
"Da? "asked Little Xander.
"Not now, Xander. We are looking for your Ma, "said Thorin, who took a quick peek inside the fireplace.
"Da, Ba told me to tell you, that Ma is in the comfort room, "said Little Xander, as the two dwarves and man froze. They quickly ran up the stairs, nearly knocking Little Xander and Tiki to the floor. Tauriel had barely opened the door, and saw the three males running up the stairs. The she-elf closed the door, as she entered the gathering room.
"Tiki, what is going on in here? "asked Tauriel, who put the basket of rolls on the coffee table.
"Aunt Susy is having her baby! "shouted an excited Tiki. Tauriel hurried up the stairs, and took the children with her. The she-elf could hear Susy break out laughing, and slowly entered the bathroom. Balin and Sebastian were laughing, as well at the sight of Thorin with a pot of water in his hand, and Xander the wizard with the kitchen towels.
"What is so funny?! "asked an angry Thorin.
"Thorin, I told you to boil some water, because you were out of sorts. You and Xander needed something to do, so I could help your wife, "said a smiling Balin. Thorin looked at Xander, who looked back.
"Xander, you hold him down, while I hit him, "said Thorin, as the wizard nodded his head. They started to go toward Balin, who smiled. Susy, Tauriel, and the children were afraid for Balin. Sebastian and Kili smiled, knowing Thorin would never hurt Balin.
"Before you start, Thorin…come meet your son, Thror, "said Balin. Thorin stopped, and slowly put the pot on the floor. He approached Balin, who handed him the yawning baby. Tears came to Thorin's eyes, as he looked at his newly born son.
"He looks just like my grandfather, "said an emotional Thorin. Xander walked over to look at the baby; he gave Balin the kitchen towels.
"I am so happy for you, Thorin. You now have two sons. And Little Xander, I hope you are nice to your baby brother, "said Xander. "Tomorrow, come to the Rusty Spoon, and we will celebrate the birth of your son, Thorin. "
"Alright, Xander, "replied Thorin, as Xander punched his shoulder lightly, and left the room.
Tauriel, Little Xander, and Tiki went to Thorin to look at the baby. Thorin bend down to show them the baby, who was moving his arms. Kili and Balin went to look at the baby, as well.
"Uh…Thorin? " They all look up to see Xander the wizard again.
Thorin stood up straight, and asked, "Why are you back? "
"I met Dwalin, Mer, and Taffy at your front door. I told them about the baby, "said a hesitant Xander.
"That is fine that you told them. "
"Dwalin went running into Little Logan's marketplace place to spread the news. You are about to be invaded, "warned Xander the wizard. Thorin groaned.
"Thorin, take the baby to the gathering room, while I take care of your wife. I do not believe she wants visitors right now, "stated Sebastian, as Susy looked with concern at her husband.
"Follow me everyone, "ordered Thorin, as everyone left the bathroom to Sebastian and Susy. Balin made sure the door was close; so that no one would bother the new mother as she slowly mended in the healing pool.
Thorin carefully went down the stairs, with Kili and Xander below him in case he falls with the baby. Thorin finally made it to the couch, and sat with the baby in his arms.
"Xander, come sit next to your Da and brother, "said Thorin, who knew how Dwalin behaves. Tiki was standing next to his Da and Ma, watching everything that was going on. Seconds after Xander settle on the couch next to Thorin, the front door burst open with Dwalin stomping in.
"Dwalin, this is not your home. You cannot just walk into someone's home, and not knock at the front door, "scolded Mer, as she led Taffy into the house.
"Ah…Thorin and Susy are kin. They understand how I am, "replied Dwalin, who stopped when he saw Thorin with the baby, on the couch. "Is that my ward? "
Thorin nodded, as Dwalin slowly walked over to the couch. He gave a huge smile, as he gently touched the baby.
"Da, are you cry? "asked Taffy.
"Of course not! Dwarves do not cry. My eyes are…just removing dirt off of themselves, "said Dwalin, who was wiping away his tears. "He looks like King Thror, that is so wonderful, Thorin. "
"I can hear Dwalin. So, is Mer and Taffy out there, Sebastian? "asked Susy, who was slowly walking to the drying area. The healing pool had cleansed her and the blood on her skirt. Susy sometimes come to the bathroom to wash the clothes, when it is raining. So, she knows how well the pool can clean stains. She sat on a bench in the drying area, and had asked Rosetta for 'warm dry air'.
Susy had asked the healer to peek from the bathroom door, and to let her know who was in her house.
"Yes, I can see Mer, so I am assuming Taffy is with her. Oh! Here they come! Now, I see Fili and Lilybelle entering your home…and that is because Dwalin had left your front door wide open for all to enter. Here come Bombur and Devie…and they brought all their children, "said Sebastian, as he peeked.
Susy laughed, as Sebastian smile. He continued, by saying, "Now, I see Bofur and Bifur…Bofur brought Bifur to me last week. He had pulled a muscle in his back trying to carry a heavy log to carve on. Finally…the last three arrived. "
"The last three? "asked a confused Susy.
"Griff, Ren, and Steven are here at last. I bet they are hoping for another celebration, like when Little Xander was born, "said Sebastian, who closed the bathroom door. "How do you feel? "
"Just tired Sebastian, "answered Susy, who sighed. The healer left the door, and walked over to Thorin's wife, and felt her head.
Taking a vial from a pouch on his belt, Sebastian said, "Drink this. It is healing water from my place. The waters at my hovel are a bit more potent than the waters here. " They could hear harsh ringing in the bathroom.
"I think Rosetta is angry at you for insulting her waters, "said a smiling Susy. Thorin's wife took the vial, and drank the water quickly. Susy started feeling less tire, but lean back against the wall as she dries. "Are you going to look at the baby to make sure he is fine, Sebastian? "
"Do not worry, Lady Susy. I will examine your son to make sure he is healthy and strong, before I leave the house, "reassured the healer.
"I just hope that Little Xander do not become jealous of his baby brother. "
"Get him to help you take care of the baby, "suggested Sebastian, as Susy smiled.
"Xander will balk at that, Sebastian. He will probably think that is woman's work, "answered a smiling Susy. Sebastian felt Thorin's wife again, and then help her to her feet.
"I think you better go rest in your bedroom, and I will have Thorin bring the baby to you, "said Sebastian, as he led Susy to the door of the bathroom.
Everyone was looking at the baby in Thorin's arms, when they heard a door open and close. After a short while, the group heard another door open and close. Thorin slowly got up, and said, "I think it is time the baby went and rest with his mother. In a week time, we will have the naming of the baby ceremony for Thror. Balin, did you tell Dwalin that you and your brother are to be appointed the baby's guardians? "asked Thorin.
"Yes, Balin told me, Thorin. I am so proud to be Thror's guardian. I just cannot wait, "said a puff up Dwalin, with a big smile.
"Good. Fili and Kili, I want you to go get the gown and towel for Thror, and we will use the same basin that we used in Little Xander's naming ceremony, "ordered Thorin, as his nephews smiled.
"I know where to take them, Thorin, "stated Lilybelle.
"I know as well, wife. But we will make a day of it. Right, Kili? "asked Fili.
"Right Fili! It is about time Tiki gets to see the main market of Logan, "said Kili, who winked at his son, Tiki. He could see how excited Tiki was. His parents very rarely go into the city of Logan. Tiki only has seen the city in the lookout room, and had been very curious about the place.
"Xander, please ask King Edward, if he can officiate at the naming ceremony. "
"Consider it done, Thorin, "replied the wizard.
"If I do not see you before anyone leaves, thank you for coming, "said Thorin, who nodded his head to his kin and friends. Thorin knew that Balin will act as host, while Susy and he were upstairs. Oakenshield slowly went up the stairs, with the baby to go find his wife. He figured that the healer probably took her to their bedroom. Thorin slowly opened the bedroom door, and took a peek. Susy was smiling from the bed, as Sebastian made sure she was fine. He kept remembering the last time she gave birth, when she almost died.
"I brought you your son, Susy, "said a smiling Thorin, who closed the bedroom door.
"And you brought me, my silly husband, "said a smiling Susy. Thorin approached the bed, and Sebastian asked for the baby. Thorin looked confused at the healer, and Susy explain.
"I want Sebastian to examine the baby, to make sure he is healthy. The baby was born before Sebastian arrived, so he had not had a chance to feel his health, "said Susy. Thorin gave Thror to Sebastian, who smiled.
"Hmmm…just like any dwarf…a very healthy baby, "stated Sebastian, who gave the baby to Susy. "So, I leave you two to enjoy your child. And Thorin, do not be intimate with your wife, for two weeks. "
"I know, Sebastian, "said a smiling Thorin, as he joined Susy on the bed. Before Sebastian left the bedroom, he turned to look at the happy parents. As they did with their elder son, Susy had made a nest of pillows, and put the baby between her and her husband. And they both looked at their son, Thror Alin Oakenshield, and gently touched his hands. Sebastian smile, and left the room.
Chapter 13 Quinn and The Marketplace
Tiki was so excited as he walked into Logan's largest marketplace, with his parents, Uncle Fili, and Aunt Lilybelle. He had never seen so many people, as the citizen shopping in this marketplace. The marketplace was named after King Edward's late wife, Queen Tamara. So, Tiki was enchanted to see all the wonders in Queen Tamara's marketplace. There were many clothing shops, places to buy jewelry, pottery, and decor for the home. Tiki saw a couple of armories, and a place that sold magical items. There were many places that sold food of any kind that anyone can imagine. It was just too much to see for Tiki, who did not know where to look. A lot of entertainers were performing throughout the marketplace, like jugglers, dancers, and singers trying to get that extra coin from the shoppers.
Tauriel was worried that Tiki might get separated from her and Kili, so she held on to Tiki's hand as they walk through the marketplace.
"Look Tiki! That fellow is juggling swords, is he not great? "stated Kili, as he pointed out the juggler. Tauriel smiled at her husband, because he was just as excited as his son. Sometimes Kili acted just like a child, looking at everything around him, with wonder. The she-elf watches as Kili and Tiki smile. Tauriel had noticed how Tiki had Kili's smile. The she-elf knew when her son gets older; she will have trouble with young girls chasing after him.
"There is the shop, "said Lilybelle.
"Madame Bryn's shop is a great place to buy clothing for infants. Where did you get Tiki's gown for his ceremony, Kili? "asked Fili. "He was such a small baby. "
"Bofur made it for us, since he is the one who makes the dresses for the dolls in his shop. He embroidered oak leaves on the bodice for us, "said a smiling Kili.
"I keep it in a chest, in Tiki's room. That way if he has a child of his own, he got the gown for the child, "added Tauriel.
They all entered the shop, as Madame Bryn was telling a woman 'good day'. Tiki stayed by his Ma, while they all separated to look at the gowns.
"Welcome to my shop. How may I help you? "asked Madame Bryn.
"We are here to purchase a gown for a male infant for a naming ceremony. We need one for an infant dwarf, "stated Fili.
Madame Bryn smiled, and said, "Over here at this table, I got many gowns for dwarf babies. I always make more for males than females, because dwarves always have more sons. " The kin hurried over to the table, and were enchanted by the selection. Kili pointed out a gown that had double axes on the bodice.
"Too bad the gown did not have a battle axe and a war hammer, because that would have been perfect, "said Fili.
"Why? "asked a confused Kili.
"Those were the favorite weapons of King Thror, "explain Fili. Madame Bryn heard Fili, and dug under a stack of gowns. She pulled out a nice white gown, with a battle axe and war hammer crossing each other on the bodice of the gown.
"Look Fili. That is what you were looking for, "exclaimed Lilybelle, as Fili took the gown from Madame Bryn.
"Too bad, you do not sell the towel as well, Madame Bryn. We could have done all our shopping at your shop, "teased Kili.
"What color are you looking for? "asked Madame Bryn, who took a basket off a shelf behind her. She shows them many lovely thick towels in the basket. Tauriel noticed that one grey towel had symbols embroidered on it. She had picked it up to show her husband.
"This towel looks to be written in your tongue, Kili, "said Tauriel, as everyone looked at the towel.
"It is written in Khuzdul…Aule blessing on this child….Thorin would love this for Thror. We will want the grey towel, and white gown, Madame Bryn, "said Fili. Madame Bryn smiled, and took the two items to wrap them together, in parcel paper.
"For the gown, it is ten coppers, and for the towel, the price is five coppers. So, it amounts to fifteen coppers, for the gown and the towel, "said Madame Bryn, who handed Fili the package. Fili paid the shopkeeper, and gave Lilybelle the package. The hobbit put the purchase into Susy's shopping basket.
"Now, let us find a nice place to eat. I am very hungry right now, "said Kili.
"You are always hungry, Kili, "teased Tauriel, as he smile at his wife. Kili quickly pick up Tiki, so he can see everything more easily. For being three years old, Tiki was still a small child.
"There is Witt's open-air tavern, "said a helpful Madame Bryn. "You eat outside, and watch the excitement of the marketplace. "
"I like that, "said Lilybelle to Fili.
"Where is Witt's, Madame Bryn? "asked Fili.
"When you leave my shop, turn left and head for the fountain. The tavern is near the fancy fountain of Queen Tamara. You cannot miss the place. "
They all thanked Madame Bryn, who smiled at the group when they left. The group saw how busy the marketplace was, and slowly headed to the fountain.
"Da? Who are those funny looking men? "asked Tiki.
"You need to stay away from those men, Tiki, They are called rangers, and are not to be trusted, "answered Kili.
Tiki watched one ranger, who looked back at the small elf child being carried by a dwarf. The ranger slightly waved to Tiki, who smiled and waved back. One of his companions turned, and said, "Come one, Strider. " The ranger turns and follows his companions.
"There is Witt's, Kili, "said Tauriel, who was the tallest of the group. She led the way to the tavern, and found a large table for them to sit at.
"This is wonderful, "said an excited Lilybelle. Then, Tauriel and Lilybelle smell an exotic scent, that made them turn around. At a table by himself was a horned red-skin being, who looked like a man. The scent was coming from him.
"What is he? "asked a whispering Kili.
"He is an Imperial Apis, "replied a whispering Tauriel, who was smiling.
"A what? "asked Fili.
"An Imperial Apis…Imp for short. The Imps usually live in a hive, in the side of mountain. I am surprise he is here, because they never leave the hive, unless their queen is dead. Females are attracted to their scent, "said a smiling Tauriel, who looked at the Imp.
"Well, stop being attracted, "said Kili, who took Tauriel's hands. Both, Tauriel and Lilybelle giggled at their husbands. Tiki was surprise, since he had never heard his Ma giggled before.
They looked at the Imp again, who tossed some coinage on the table, and left. Finally, Tauriel and Lilybelle sigh, and looked embarrassed by their behavior.
"Kili, I sometimes wonder about our wives, "said Fili, who looked at Lilybelle. The hobbit would not look at her husband, because she was blushing. A waitress came to their table.
"What can I bring you? "asked the thin redhead.
"What do you have for today? "asked a smiling Kili.
"Well, we have bread trencher with mutton stew, leek pottage, beef fritters, mince meat pasties, and grilled trout, "said the waitress.
"Mutton stew sounds delicious, "said Fili, who looked at Lilybelle, who nodded. "We will have the stew. "
"I will have the mutton for me, and my son as well, "said Kili, who looked at Tauriel.
The she-elf smiled, and said, "Leek pottage for me, please. "
"Ale? "asked the smiling waitress.
"Yes, we will have ale, and water for the lad, "said Fili, as the waitress nodded and left.
"What kind of dancing is that? "asked Lilybelle, who noticed three women hopping to some music played by two men.
Fili laughed, and said, "Those are hoppers, and are dancing a dance from their homeland. Some people find the dance entertaining. I have seen Bofur tried to copy them. He looks so funny when he tries. " The group watched the women, as they did fast steps and hop. People were clapping their hands to the music, as the men played on a flute and drum. While the group was enjoying the entertainment, the waitress came back with their food. Tiki looked at what his Ma was going to eat, and made a face. The pottage was lumpy like oatmeal, but a slight tint of green.
"Tiki, stop making faces over my food, "scolds Tauriel.
"Can you blame him, Tauriel, "teased Kili. "That pottage does not look appealing. "
"Just because I let you talk me into letting him eat meat, does not mean that I do not want Tiki eating vegetables, "stated Tauriel.
"The stew does have a lot of vegetables, "said Kili, as Tauriel smiled at her husband. "Is that not right, Tiki? "
"Yes, Da. I like vegetables, Ma, "said Tiki, who had to be on his knees so he could reach his food.
"I am glad, Tiki, "said a smiling she-elf.
"You two are lucky to have a child. I hope one day to have a child as well, "said Lilybelle, with a sigh.
"Be patience, Lilybelle. It will happen, you will see, "said Fili, who was enjoying his meal.
"Fili, before we head to Oakenshield, I would love to buy a gift for Aunt Susy. Everybody is always thinking about the baby, but no one thinks about the mother, "said Lilybelle.
"Lilybelle is right. I want to get something for Aunt Susy as well, "added Tauriel.
"That is fine with me, because I got extra coinage, "said a smiling Fili.
"So, do we, Fili. Besides, you had paid for the gown and towel, I will pay for the meal, "said Kili.
"Done, brother. " Fili and Kili touched fists together, as Tiki smiled. Tiki always thought of Little Xander as a brother, instead of a cousin. Maybe when they are older, they could share a house together with Bombom.
"But first…let us eat, "said Kili, who quickly grabbed his spoon, and started eating his stew. The group ate, talked, and laughed, while enjoying the day together. Tiki felt happy at the moment, enjoying the whole time with his kin.
After lunch, the group headed to where they saw a lot of fancy items for females. They saw a stall with silver jewelry, one that sold shawls and cloaks, and another that sold perfumes. Tiki stood by his Ma, as they looked at the shawls. There was the stall that sold perfume next to him. He turns to look at the perfume, and saw that the stall also sold keepsake pouches, like the one he was wearing. Tiki had never taken off the pouch that his Aunt Susy had given him. He fingered the pouch underneath his tunic, feeling the salt inside the pouch.
Tiki reached over and touched a lovely beige pouch, which had a rose engraved into the leather.
"Take it. No one is watching, "said a voice.
Tiki was startled, and looked to see who was talking to him. He saw a young boy, who looked older than him, with dirty blonde hair.
"No. My Aunt Susy told me that it was bad to take things that I did not pay for, "answered the half-elf.
"Your Aunt Susy sound like a stupid old cow, "teased the boy.
Tiki started flailing at the boy, who held the small child far from his body. The boy started laughing at Tiki.
"Do not talk about my Aunt Susy! "cried Tiki.
"You are so funny! "said the laughing boy.
"Hey! Leave my nephew alone! "snarled Fili, who had heard Tiki yelling at the boy. The boy pushed Tiki away from him, and then backed away. He thought he heard someone calling his name. The boy quickly walked away from an angry Fili and Tiki, and then ran through the marketplace.
"Are you alright, Tiki? "asked Fili.
"Yes, Uncle Fili. "
"Why were you two fighting about? "
"He wanted me to take something that was not paid for. I told him that my Aunt Susy told me that it was bad to do that. He called Aunt Susy a stupid old cow, "said Tiki, who started to cry. Fili smiled, and hugged his nephew.
"Tiki, you did a good thing, by doing what your Aunt Susy had told you. And you defended her honor, like a true knight of a castle. Show me the thing that boy wanted you to take. "
Tiki showed Fili the beige pouch, and told Fili about the pouch Aunt Susy gave him. Fili quickly purchased the pouch, and gave it to Tiki.
"Now, you need to put something very special into the pouch as a gift to your Aunt Susy, "said Fili, who knows that young lads always have boxes with items that they find while playing. He use to keep dried up dead frog in a box, and his Ma Dis had found it one time, while cleaning. She screamed when she had opened the box, and yelled at him for keeping such a nasty treasure. Dis had asked him, 'Why could you not save stones, like your brother, Kili?'
Fili smiled at the memory, and looked at Tiki, who was thinking real hard. Tiki smiled at his uncle, as he thought of something special for his Aunt Susy.
"Can I use your dagger, Uncle Fili? "asked Tiki. Fili looked startled by the request, as he slowly slides out a dagger.
"You are not going to cut yourself, are you Tiki? "asked a concern Fili.
"No, "said a surprised Tiki. Fili sighed in relief. Then, he watched with his mouth open, as Tiki cut off a lock of hair from his head.
"Tiki, what are doing?! "said Kili, who saw his son, cut his hair with a dagger. The dark-haired dwarf had grabbed his son's wrist that had the dagger. "Your Ma is going to be upset about you cutting your hair. And why do you have a dagger in your hand any way? "
"It is my dagger, Kili, "confessed Fili, as he stood to face his brother.
"Are you mad, Fili? Why would you give my son a dagger to use? "exclaimed an angry Kili.
"What is going on? "asked Tauriel, as she saw her son, with a dagger in his hand. The she-elf quickly took the dagger, and hand it to Fili.
"Fili have given Tiki a dagger to cut his hair, "said Kili.
"I did not know he was going to cut his hair, Kili. He asked to borrow my dagger, "explained Fili.
"Why did you cut some of your hair, with Uncle Fili's dagger, Tiki? "asked Tauriel, as she squatted down to talk to her son.
"Uncle Fili helped me to get a gift for Aunt Susy. He bought this pouch for me. He said I have to put something special in the pouch. The only special thing I have is my gown, but it is too big for the pouch. I remember that Aunt Susy said I was special, so I cut a piece of my hair to put in the pouch. Are you angry with me, Ma? "asked a teary-eyed Tiki.
Tauriel and Lilybelle had tears in their eyes, after hearing what Tiki had said. Fili and Kili had lumps in their throats, and were trying to clear their throats.
"No, Tiki. I think that your gift is very special, and we better put it in the pouch before you drop it, "said Tauriel, as she help Tiki put the lock of hair into the pouch. She tied up the pouch, so that it would not open by accident. Tauriel gave Tiki the pouch, and took his hand. "Let us go home, Tiki. "
"Yes, Ma. "
"You can give your gift to Aunt Susy at the naming ceremony, Tiki, "said Kili, as his son smiled at him. Fili was whispering to Kili about Tiki and the boy, and what had went on.
"Do not tell anyone about this Fili, especially Thorin. He already is having doubts about my son, "whispered Kili. Fili nodded as the group headed back to Oakenshield.
"Quinn! Where had you been?! "asked an angry Filly.
"I was trying to find more boys, like you told me to, "answered Quinn. The two thieves were quickly walking through the marketplace, to get away from the crowd.
"And did you find some more boys? "asked Filly, as they entered into a dirty alleyway. There were trash, rats, and broken bottles on the ground. The thieves knew that the citizens of Logan would never enter this alleyway.
"There is a young boy, who is half elf and half dwarf that I have seen before. He has very fast hands, and would make a great thief, "said Quinn.
"Half-elf you said? "asked Filly, who was pondering the news.
"Yes, sir. "
"He sounds very promising indeed, Quinn. We need to keep an eye on that lad. What is the lad's name? "
"I heard them call him, Tiki. "
"Tiki? He is related to Thorin Oakenshield, the king's friend. Hmmm…if he is as good as you say he is we have to get the Guild to help us to retrieve the child. That lad has a lot of kin in Little Logan and Logan. I would not want to get any dwarf angry at us. Believe me, when I tell you that it would probably means our death, if we were caught stealing that child, "warned Filly.
"Do you think the Guild will help us? "asked Quinn.
"If the child is too much of a bother to steal, the Guild will not help us, "replied Filly. "But keep your eyes on the child. Maybe something will happen that will make it easy for us to take him from his parents. "
"I do not know, sir. It seems that this Oakenshield is friends with a wizard as well, "said Quinn. The young thief likes Tiki, because the half-elf was willing to fight with someone stronger and bigger, than himself to defend his aunt.
"Xander of Logan? I like that. If we could take the lad, then we have some leverage over the wizard. And that would come in handy, when we need magical help, "said a crafty Filly, who led Quinn into another scrummy alleyway.
Quinn was feeling guilty about telling Filly about the poor little Tiki. Filly did not care who he harms, as long as they help him to get more riches.
They went through many alleyways quickly, until they approached the entrance to the catacombs. The citizens stopped using the catacombs, when King Edwards became king of Logan. Now, the Thieves Guild used the catacombs as their home, and only a few citizens remember the catacombs. No one go there, because horrible creatures still roam the underground tunnels. The thieves know to go in group of two to be safe in the region. There was always a thief hanging outside the entrance to wait for other thieves to travel with. There was one thief waiting at the entrance as they approach, covered in a dirty cloak.
"Hello, Filly. Found anything new to steal? "asked the hooded person.
"Cat? Waiting for company to enter the catacombs? "asked Filly, with a smirk.
"You always change the subject, when you found something worth stealing, Filly. You are so easy to read, "said Cat. The person pushed their hood down, and reveals a pretty blonde woman, with very short hair. Quinn smiled at her pretty green eyes, but the woman did not return the smile.
"This is my apprentice Quinn. Quinn, this is Cat. Never trust this woman, because she would stab you in the back for the laces in your boots. " Cat laughed at the remark Filly made.
"You are joking, right sir? "asked a smiling Quinn.
"No, he is not boy, "said a grinning Cat, whose smile did not reach her eyes. Quinn suddenly felt very scared, and kept quiet. "So, tell me about this treasure you found, that you do not want anyone to know about. "
"No, Cat. I got to make a request from the Guild. You can listen to what we had found. But I am not telling you, because you might want to take it yourself, "growled Filly.
"Oh, Filly. After all the years we known each other, you do not trust me. "
Filly grunted, as the trio of thieves enters the catacombs. Quinn always felt a shiver go up his back, whenever he enters these catacombs. Many of thieves had entered, and never were seen again. It was dark, dank, and a feeling of gloom emits from the catacombs. They had passed by many coffins that were on shelves, and some coffins had spilled its contents on to the ground. It took a couple of minutes, before they reached the main chamber in the catacombs. The council of thieves was there, talking and eating a meal. Some of the council members did not like Filly, who usually worked alone.
Filly took a deep breath, and approached the council, as they glared at the thief, who dare interrupted their meal.
"This should be fun, "said Cat, who crossed her arms, and lean back.
"Why do you say that? "asked Quinn.
"Because the only council member that ever listen to Filly had disappeared. So, no one on the council likes him. He is in for a rude awakening, "replied Cat. Quinn turned to watch Filly request the council for their help. He had a sinking feeling in his stomach that they were not going to get that help.