Chapter 16 Trouble In Chaden's Marketplace
At seven years old, Tiki had turn into a fine lad. He was slim, agile, and very smart. He was pretty fast with a sword and bow, just like his Ma, Tauriel. The half-elf was quick to make friends, especially since he has the same winning smile like his Da, Kili. All in Little Logan adore Tiki, but he sense that one person did not. Tiki felt that the older he got, the more his great Uncle Thorin disprove of him. And the poor lad does not know why. He tried to ask his parents, but they would evade his question. Tiki was confused.
Tiki was thinking these thoughts, as he stood outside of Mer's Bakery waiting on his Ma, who was buying bread for today's meals.
"Greetings Tiki! What are you doing? "asked the pretty ten-years old Taffi. She had grown into a very pretty girl, who had boys flocking around the bakery. But Dwalin scares away any boy who has any idea of getting too friendly with his Taffi. Dwalin does not think Taffi is old enough to be courted by any lad. But he knows he will lose his Taffi to a boy one day, which makes him feel a bit sad.
"Greetings Taffi. I am just thinking about some things. I just saw Xander and Uncle Thorin heading outside the walls of Logan. I think they are going to go see Xander's godfather. "
"I do not have a guardian, but I am happy to have my Da. Do you have a guardian, Tiki? "asked Taffi.
"Of course. My guardians are Eurus and Calliann, who are our neighbors, as well. Eurus taught me how to fight with a sword, while my Da and Ma show me how to fight with a bow. And I just found out that Eurus use to be an adventurer, and had rescued Calliann from a monster, who would steal maidens from their homes, "said impressed Tiki.
"Oooh! That sounds so scary, "said Taffi. The young girl froze, when she saw a scruffy-looking man and a handsome younger man come up to them.
"Boy, I hear that you like the idea about being an adventurer. I can teach you how to unlock doors, disarm traps, and open treasure boxes without getting hurt or killed. Would you like that, boy? "asked the scruffy man.
Tiki did not like the man, he sense that he was not a nice person. "No thank you, mister, "replied Tiki, who took a hold of Taffi. He was gently trying to push the young girl toward the bakery's door.
"Do not leave, boy! I am trying to talk to you! "snapped the angry man, who grabbed Tiki's arm.
"Filly…, "said the younger man. Filly slapped the younger man in the face, with his other hand.
"I told you not to use my name, boy! "snarled Filly, who was trying to drag Tiki away from the bakery. Taffi ran to Filly, and started hitting him.
"Leave my friend alone! "said Taffi, as she was hitting Filly on his back. Filly got distracted by Taffi, which gave the chance for Tiki to slip away from the old thief's hand.
"You blasted girl! You made me lose my grip on my new apprentice! "spit out Filly. Filly pushed Taffi onto the ground of the cobbled plaza. Taffi put her hand up to fend off Filly, as Filly try to beat her. The young man grabbed Filly, trying to pull him away from the girl, before he could hurt her. Tiki hurried to Taffi, pulled her up to her feet, and escorted her to the bakery.
"Let me go, Quinn! I will take care of that interfering girl! I will not be denied my prize! After I waited three years for him to be alone! "snapped out Filly.
"No! Do not hurt them! "shouted the sixteen-years old Quinn. Filly's anger was fueled, which gave him extra strength to knocked Quinn to the ground. The cruel thief started beating Quinn, as he lay on the cobbled stones. Quinn rolled up into a ball, knowing the feeling of Filly's fists. This was not the first time Filly had beaten Quinn. Tiki jumped on Filly's back, trying to pull him off of Quinn. Next thing Tiki felt were strong hands pulling him off of the thief's back.
"Tiki, stop laddie! "said Dwalin, as he gently pulled the half-elf away from the man. Thorin had grabbed Filly, and with the help of Xander the wizard detained the thief. Little Xander was peeking around Thorin's back. Taffi was helping Quinn up to his feet.
"What is going on? "asked an angry Xander.
"That mean man tried to drag Tiki away! "declared Taffi, as she glared at Filly, who was trying pull away from Thorin and Xander's grip.
Xander of Logan took a good look at Filly, and said, "Well well… the notorious Filly the cutthroat. I never thought I would see the day that you would be caught. Guards! " One of the guards from the front gates of Logan came running up to where Xander the wizard stood.
"Yes, Master Xander…zounds! It is Filly! "stated the surprise guard. The guard turned to a watch tower at the corner of the walls of Chaden's marketplace. "Captain Patric! Come quickly, sir! "
Captain Patric came from an archway, from inside of the watch tower. He stood on the battlement, and looked down at the guard who had called to him.
"Who called out to me?! "asked Captain Patric.
"It is I, Macklin…sir! They have apprehended Filly the cutthroat inside Chaden's! " Captain Patric saw that Xander the wizard and Thorin Oakenshield had a hold of Filly. The Captain calls out to his guards, who were in the stable at the moment.
"Guards! Take that cutthroat from those law-abiding citizens, and take him to the dungeon of the castle! " Guards came storming out of the stables, and took a fighting Filly from Thorin and Xander.
As they dragged Filly away, the thief pointed a finger at Tiki. "He is my apprentice! Do you not want my apprentice?! " Everyone gasped, and looked at Tiki, who shook his head.
"Are you that filthy thief's apprentice?! "snapped an angry Thorin.
"No, Uncle Thorin, "replied a pale Tiki.
"Then why would that thief lie?! "asked Thorin. At that moment, Thorin did not see his nephew's son, but an elf.
"I do not know, Uncle Thorin, "said a scared Tiki.
"Thorin, I think the boy is answering the truth, "said Xander, who was trying to calm his friend down.
"This does not concern you, Xander. This is a family matter, "replied a racist Thorin, who shook his head at the wizard.
"Why do you not ask the other man, who came with the thief, "said Taffi, who had not noticed that Quinn had slipped away, while they were talking.
"What other man daughter? "asked Dwalin. Taffi looked around for Quinn, and saw he was gone.
"The man the thief was hitting, that was roll up on the ground, "said a teary-eyed Taffi.
"Well, he is gone now, daughter, "replied Dwalin, who looked over to a scared Tiki.
"So, now your only witness is gone. How fortunate are you, Tiki? You do not have another person to point a finger at you. I have decided. You will no longer talk or play with my son, Xander, "said Thorin, as he continued to glare at Tiki.
"Da! "cried out Xander. Tears escaped both Little Xander and Tiki's eyes.
"Thorin, that is kind of harsh. After all, the lad is your kin, "stated Dwalin, as Xander of Logan frown at Thorin's decision.
"How do we know that? He looks more like King Thranduil's son every day. How do we know his Ma was not with child, when she married Kili? Look at the boy! "accused Thorin.
Everyone looked at Tiki, who would not look at anyone's eyes. Tauriel and Mer came running out of the bakery, when they heard Thorin shouting.
"What is going on? "asked a confused Tauriel.
"Is everybody alright? "asked Mer, as she joined Dwalin and Taffi's side.
"Did you think you could hide the fact that your son is not Kili's child, elf?! "snapped Thorin.
"What are you talking about? Of course, Tiki is Kili's son!
replied an angry Tauriel.
"Strange how he does not look anything like Kili. More like King Thranduil's son, who you seem to be very friendly with when we first met you, "said Thorin. Tauriel slapped Thorin in the face. Everybody gasp, as Thorin stopped himself from returning the slap.
"Just because Tiki looks a lot like my Uncle Ceron, does not mean he is not Kili's son! Come on Tiki. We are going home! "said an angry Tauriel. She noticed that Tiki would not move. "What is wrong, son? "
"Uncle Thorin said, I cannot talk or play with Little Xander anymore, "said a very sad Tiki.
"What?! "said an upset Tauriel. "How could you do that? "
"That is a horrible thing to do, Thorin, "said Mer.
"Xander is my son, and I decide who could be his friend, "said a stony Thorin. Little Xander took off running home to go tell his Ba and his Ma, what his Da had decided.
"Come on, Tiki. We will go talk to your Da…Kili, "stated Tauriel, as she glared at Thorin.
"Thorin, I think you need to go talk to your family about this matter, before you make a decision, "offered Xander the wizard. Thorin looked at his friend, and nodded. "Dwalin, I want you there, as well as your family. "
"Aye, Thorin. Let Mer lockup the bakery, and we will be there, "said Dwalin, who was thinking about what had just happened. Tauriel had taken Tiki by the arm, and lead him away from the group, who were in Chaden's marketplace.
"Alright, Tiki. Tell me what happen to cause Uncle Thorin to treat you so badly, "asked Tauriel.
"Taffi and I were in front of the bakery talking, when this mean-looking man came up to us. I think he wanted me to go with him, but I told him 'no'. The bad man grabbed my arm, and tried to take me away, "said Tiki.
"What?! Again, someone tried to take you?! I am sorry son for interrupting you. Go on and tell me the rest, "said a pale Tauriel. Tiki nodded his head.
"Taffi started hitting the bad man to get him to let me go. I got away, but the bad man had pushed Taffi down onto the ground. He tried to hit Taffi, when the other man stopped the bad man. The bad man knocked down the other man, and started hitting him. I made Taffi stand next to the bakery, while I jumped on the bad man's back. That was when Dwalin grabbed me, and Uncle Thorin and Xander the wizard grabbed the bad man. The guards took the bad man away, but…, "said Tiki. The half-elf did not know what to say about Filly's accusation. Will his mother believe it?
"But what Tiki? Tell me all, "requested Tauriel, who knew there was something Tiki was reluctant to tell her.
"They said that the bad man was a cutthroat. And the bad man told everybody that I was his apprentice, Ma. And Uncle Thorin believed him, "said a teary-eyed Tiki.
"He would! "said an angry Tauriel. She hurried Tiki to Durin-Folks Weapon Shop, which was Dwalin and Fili's forge. Kili was visiting with his brother, Fili who was busy making a special sword for Ren, their friend. Ren had told Fili to take his time in making the sword. All the adventurer wanted in the sword was for it to be light weight and very strong. Fili was enjoying the time he put into the sword, which was turning out grand.
"It was so funny, Fili. You should have seen Pig-face Pri and Kayla rolling on the cobblestones of Little Logan's marketplace. The two she-dwarves were fighting for the same apron from a clothing shop. Their husbands and sons had to pull them apart, "said a smiling Kili.
"Those two will never change, "replied Fili, as he put the sword into the fire again. Fili was trying to heat the sword some more to make it thinner. Fili placed the sword on the anvil, and started hitting the blade of the sword, with his hammer.
"Kili! "
"That sounds like Tauriel. Something must be wrong, "said Kili, who hurried over to the front door of the forge. Fili had left the door open to cool down the forge, since the heat from the fire pit can get unbearable. Fili put the sword into the cooling trough, and joined Kili at the door to his forge.
Tauriel hurried to them, with Tiki following close behind her. Tauriel told both brothers what had happened to Tiki, and Thorin's accusations.
"Blast! How could he think that of Tauriel and Tiki? "asked an upset Kili.
"Come on! Let us all confront Thorin together, "said Fili. Lilybelle had just arrived, with lunch for Fili and Kili.
"What is going on, Fili? "asked Lilybelle, as Fili took the tray of food from his wife, and put it on a table in the forge.
"Come with us, Lilybelle. We got an important matter to talk to Thorin about, "said Fili, who dragged his confuse wife behind Kili, Tauriel, and Tiki.
"Alright, Fili, "said Lilybelle, as she walked with the others.
Everyone arrived at Thorin's home, and was seated in the gathering room. Thorin was looking into the fire in the fireplace, as Balin help to sit those who had arrived. Oakenshield had not said a word, or looked at anybody.
"The family is all here, Thorin, "said Balin, who looked a bit miffed. He went and joins Susy and Little Xander on the main couch. Dwalin, Mer, and Taffi were sitting in the side chairs, on their left. While Kili and his family were sitting on the second couch, near Fili and Lilybelle's chairs, next to the stairs.
"I wanted you here to talk about an incident that had happened in Chaden's marketplace. A thief, named Filly was caught today trying to beat a man, who had protected Taffi. The thief stated that Tiki was his apprentice, "said a quiet Thorin, who did not look at anyone. "I had voiced my suspicion that Tiki is not one of our kin, since he looks so much like King Thranduil's son. I wish to hear from everyone in the family, about your opinion in this matter. "
"The lad is too small to be a full-blood elf, Thorin, "said Dwalin.
"How we know that elfish children are not small when they are young, and then grow taller when they get older, "said Thorin. Dwalin was quiet.
"Tauriel is my wife, and you cannot deny that, Thorin, "said Kili. "And Tiki is my son, as well. "
"Have you seen Thranduil's son in the area of Logan? "asked Thorin.
"Well, yes. It was the day I fell into the river Cris, with Berker, who tried to kill Lilybelle. Legolas saved me from the river that day, "said Kili.
"And why was that elf here? Was he here to visit with your wife? "asked Thorin, who never looked at anyone. Everybody gasp at what Thorin was suggesting, except for the children, who were confused.
"Thorin, that is a horrible thing to say about Tauriel, "stated Lilybelle.
"The truth can be horrible, "said Thorin.
"I do not want my daughter listening to this, "said Mer.
"Children, I think it is best that you go out into the garden, until we call for you, "suggested Susy.
"Yes, Aunt Susy! "sang the three children. The elders stayed quiet, until Little Xander closed the garden door behind them.
"I have never seen or met with Legolas, until that moment he saved Kili, "said Tauriel. "And I was with child, before I saw Legolas. "
"You expect me to believe you? "said Thorin.
"Thorin? "
"Yes, wife. "
"Have Tauriel or Tiki ever lied to you? "
"Not that I know of, wife. Why you ask? "
"Why would you doubt Tauriel and Tiki's words now? "asked Susy. Thorin was quiet, and did not reply. A knock came on the front door of the house. Thorin turn around, and looked confusedly at the front door. Balin got up to answer the door.
"Everyone is here. Who could be at the door? "asked Thorin, as he stood next to the fireplace.
"The person I invited to clear up any question you had about Tiki, "said Balin. Balin opened the door, and in walked Sebastian the healer. The healer stopped at the gloomy-looks on every ones faces.
"Am I in trouble? "asked a surprised Sebastian, as Balin escorted the healer into the gathering room.
"No, Sebastian. I remember you telling me that you can tell a person's lineage, by touching them, "said Balin.
"And whose lineage do you want to know? "asked Sebastian. "Is this about your lineage, Balin? "
"No, this is about Tiki, "said Balin.
"What about Tiki? "asked Sebastian, who was confused.
"We want to know who is Tiki's real father is, "asked Thorin.
"Kili, "stated Sebastian. Everyone smiled, except for Thorin.
"Are you sure, healer? "asked Thorin.
"Of course I am sure. I knew it the day he was born, "said Sebastian, who looked at Thorin's face carefully. "Oh! I understand now. If that is all you wanted to know, I will be going. Thank you for inviting me for a short visit. " Balin opened the door for the healer, who left to go to the Rusty Spoon.
"Fine. We cleared up Tiki lineage, but not about the thief's accusation, "said Thorin. Another knock came on the door, which made Thorin frustrated at being interrupted again. "Did you invite someone else, Balin? "
"No, Thorin. I am surprise as well, "said Balin, who opened the front door. A young man grabbed Balin, and turned him around quickly. He put a dagger to Balin's throat, as he faces everyone in the gathering room. The dwarves had stood, ready to attack the man, but Thorin told them to not move.
"What do you want? "asked a glaring Thorin. The women in the gathering room, feared for Balin's safety.
"Where is the elf-boy? I wish to thank him for trying to help. Filly had beaten me, ever since we first met, "said Quinn.
"Wait! Are you not the same boy that fought with Tiki three years ago at Queen Tamara's Marketplace? "asked Fili.
"Yes, that was me, "confessed Quinn. "It is my fault that Filly wanted to take the boy for his apprentice. I saw the elf-boy, when he was little in that toy shop in Little Logan. I saw how fast his hands were, when he took those tops from the box. I told Filly about what I saw that day. Because I told him about that incident, Filly became obsess in wanting the boy to steal for him. That is why he grabbed the elf-boy this morning. Filly is not as fast as he was, when he was younger. Now, he turned to killing his victims, so he can rob them of their belongings, "stated Quinn.
"If what you say is true…why did the thief accuse my nephew of being his apprentice? "asked Thorin.
"The man is a thief, a murder, a blighter, and especially a liar. Why would you believe any words he said, over the words of your nephew? "asked a surprised Quinn. Thorin looked away, and felt embarrassed about the way he treated Tiki and Tauriel.
"Why the dagger, young man? "asked Balin, as he looked up at the lad.
"I do not want to go to prison. I just wanted to thank the elf-boy. Tell him 'thank you' for me. " Quinn released Balin, and quickly left the property of Oakenshield. Balin took a deep breath, and slowly released it.
"Remind me to check to see who is outside the door, before I open it, "said a smiling Balin, as he closed the front door.
"Tauriel…, "said Thorin, as he looked at Kili's wife.
"Yes, Thorin? "answered a cautious Tauriel.
"I am very sorry for my words and actions, niece, "replied Thorin. Tauriel smiled, and quickly ran over and gave Thorin a hug. Everyone join in hugging and kissing Tauriel and Thorin. The three children were peeking behind the garden door. Susy looked over to the door, and smiled.
"Come in you three nosy children, "teased a smiling Susy.
"What happened, Ma? "asked Little Xander.
"Tiki, come here lad, "said Thorin. Tiki slowly approached his Uncle Thorin. Thorin grabbed the thin lad, and gave him a big hug. Tiki hugged Thorin back, as he started to cry.
"I am very sorry, Tiki. Please forgive me, and my foolish ideas, "said a sad Thorin.
"I will always forgive you, Uncle Thorin, "stated Tiki, who hugged Thorin again.
"For a moment, I thought you were going to act like King Thror, "said Dwalin.
"What do you mean, Dwalin? "asked a confused Thorin, as he released Tiki, who hurried over to his parents.
"When he forbade you to be friends with Karn Barr, "stated Dwalin, as he gave Thorin a knowing look.
"Karn…, "said Thorin, as he thought back to his childhood. He remembered his childhood friend, Karn Barr, who was half-dwarf and half-man. King Thror did not think Karn a proper friend for the future king of Erebor…Thorin. But Karn was a dear friend of Thorin, Dwalin, and Balin. Karn saved Thorin and Dwalin from drowning, when they were very young. Then later Karn had taught them how to swim. Thorin smiled back to his distant cousin, Dwalin, and nodded his head.
"Yes, I remember now. And I almost made the same mistake, as my grandfather, King Thror, "replied a smiling Thorin. Then, everyone heard the three-year old Thror, calling from the landing.
"Can I come down now, Ma? I am tire of being in the bedroom, "said a pouting Thror.
"Did you put on your shoes, son? "asked Thorin. Lately, Thror balk against putting on any shoes. And it has been a tiring battle between Ma and son lately about the shoes.
"No, Da. I do not want to, "replied Thror, who frowned.
Looking at Susy, Thorin said, "I will get him to put on his shoes. I need to do a punishment for all the trouble I cause. "
"Thank you, Thorin. I love you, husband, "said Susy, as she kissed Oakenshield.
"I love you, wife, "replied Thorin, as he headed up the stairs. Thror took off running when he saw his Da coming.
As Thorin reach the landing at the top of the stairs, Little Xander called out, "Da? What about Tiki and I? "
Thorin looked down at the two boys, and replied, "I will not stand in the way of your friendship with your kin, son. But Tiki, I want you to promise me that you will never associate with any thief. "
"What thief, Uncle Thorin? "asked a confused Tiki.
"A young man came by the house to 'thank you', Tiki, "said Balin.
"That must be that man Quinn, I told you about, "said Taffi.
"I promise, Uncle Thorin, "replied Tiki, as Thorin smiled and left the landing to chase down his other son. Tiki pondered Quinn the thief, and his promise to his Uncle Thorin.
Chapter 17 The Death Of A Cutthroat
Two weeks later, Kili and Tauriel were arguing, as they headed to the castle's courtyard, with Tiki, Fili, and Lilybelle. Kili and Fili wanted to witness the death of Filly the cutthroat. One of his victims had survived the cut the thief made across his throat, with the help of Sebastian the healer. The man's testimony was thrown into Filly's face at his trial, which cause the thief to be sentenced to death by hanging.
Tauriel did not want Tiki to witness the hanging. So, the she-elf convinced Kili; that she, Lilybelle, and Tiki will wait for them at Witt's tavern.
"Fine, Tauriel. But do a little bit of shopping, and buy yourself a new gown, "said Kili, who gave Tauriel his money pouch. Fili did the same for Lilybelle, who gave her husband a kiss.
"I do not need a new gown, Kili, "said Tauriel, who favor wearing green clothing. She was wearing a lovely simple green gown, with a tan leather cinch around her mid-riff.
"So, get something for the home, Tauriel, "said Kili, as he hurried away with his brother. Many people were excited about the hanging, and were hurrying to the castle courtyard.
"Dwarves! Sometimes, Tiki…I want to hit your father. " Tiki and Lilybelle laughed.
"I know what you can buy, Ma. Let us get you your own keepsake pouch, and we will put my hair and Da's hair, in your pouch. That way, you will always have a part of us, with you, "suggested Tiki. Tauriel and Lilybelle smiled at the half-elf, and hurried to the perfume stall that sold the keepsake pouches. The old woman, who ran the perfume stall, had kept the stall open, which made the two females and lad very happy.
"I am surprise that you were opened. I thought you would have closed your stall to go see the hanging, "stated Lilybelle.
"Have you ever seen a hanging before, child? "asked the old woman. Lilybelle shook her head, as Tauriel and Tiki listened.
"It is a gruesome sight to see. After seeing my first hanging, I never wanted to see another one again. And I cannot believe how foolish some people are in taking their children to witness a hanging. " The old woman shook her head, then smiled at them. "Now, what can I help you with? "
"I wish to see some of your keepsake pouches. My son had bought one for his aunt, three years ago, "said Tauriel.
"And what a fine lad you have there. Right now, I got eleven different pouches. Four are made for men, and seven were made for women, "said the old woman.
"What do you mean 'made for women'? "asked a confused Lilybelle.
The old woman chuckled, and replied, "How many men do you know who would want a pretty daisy on his pouch? "
Tauriel, Lilybelle, and Tiki laughed, and agreed with the old woman 'that no man would'. The old woman looked at Tauriel, and smiled.
"I got the perfect keepsake pouch for you, my lady, "said the old woman. She dug into a small basket, since she was displaying only four of her keepsake pouches. She pulled out a beautiful Kelly green pouch, which had the image of the lovely tree of Gondor. The old woman handed the pouch to Tauriel, who traced the image of the tree.
"This is a beautiful pouch, madam. How much are you asking for the pouch? "asked the she-elf.
"Five coppers, my lady, "said the smiling old woman. Tauriel paid the woman, as Lilybelle and Tiki looked at the image.
"What a lovely tree. I never seen a tree like this, "said Lilybelle. The hobbit helped the she-elf put on the keepsake pouch around her neck.
"Yes, that tree is lovely. It is the image of the White Tree of Gondor. I use to live in Gondor, but I did not like living so close to Mordor. So, my husband and I move to Logan, and we have been happy ever since we got here. "
"Well, thank you for the lovely pouch. I will make sure I show all my friends the pouch, and tell them which stall I bought it at, "said Tauriel, as the she-elf and her companions turned to leave.
"Do not forget to tell them, that I sell perfume as well, "shouted the happy old woman.
Tauriel, Lilybelle, and Tiki slowly headed to Witt's, as they watched more people heading toward the castle's grounds.
"I hope Kili and Fili join us soon, I just do not like the big crowd in the marketplace today, "stated Tauriel, as they found a table at Witt's.
Kili and Fili found a spot not far from the gallows, as people jostle to get as close as they could. Kili and Fili really did not want to witness a hanging, but Kili wanted to make sure that Filly the cutthroat will never harm his son again.
"I hate the idea that this thief has a name that sounds like mine, "stated Fili, as he looked at the people in the courtyard.
"Well, you are Fili the dwarf, while he is Filly the cutthroat. I do not think they will get you two confused. But, I cannot believe how people around the courtyard are treating this hanging as a festival, "said Kili, as he frowns at the festive attitude of the people.
"Kili, I really do not want to see this hanging, "said Fili. "Let us go meet with our wives and your son at Witt's "
Kili looked around at the people's faces, and then agree with Fili. As they were leaving the courtyard, they had bumped into Captain Patric, and a number of his guards.
"Are you not staying to see that monster Filly get hanged? "asked a surprised Captain Patric. Looking at his guards, the captain ordered, "Make sure you keep the crowd away from the gallows. I do want people removing parts of Filly's body as talismans. "
"Yes, Captain Patric, "said one of the guards. The men hurried toward the gallows to keep the crowds away.
"No, Captain Patric. I did want to make sure that the thief was dead, so that he would leave my son alone. But I really do not want to witness a man being hung, "replied Kili.
"I will do you a favor, Kili…nephew of Thorin. I will watch the hanging for you, and then bring you words when the man is dead, "said a smiling Captain Patric.
"Thank you, Captain Patric for the favor. My brother and I will be at Witt's, with our love ones. You can look for us there, "replied a smiling Kili. The Captain nodded at the two dwarves, and went to join his guards. Kili and Fili left the courtyard to head for Witt's. A person was watching them leave, but stayed hidden under a shady tree, next to exit of the courtyard.
Quinn had seen Fili and his brother, and went to stand far from the dwarf. He could see the gallows from where he stood, and he wanted to make sure that Filly the cutthroat could not see him either. He figured that Filly would point a finger at him, so that he would perish alongside Filly. Quinn realized that he did not want to die young, as a thief. But he did not know what other way to live.
"I see you are here to witness Filly's hanging, Quinn, "said a female voice.
Quinn was startled by the voice, and then he realized it was Cat. The blonde woman was wearing an old dress, and apron, so she could blend in with crowd.
"Yes, I wanted to make sure that Filly was dead. He treated me cruelly, since I first met him, "replied a tired Quinn.
"So, what are you going to do, after Filly is gone? "asked Cat, as she watched four guards escorted a fighting Filly to the gallows. People were throwing rotten food and eggs at the cutthroat. Filly was cussing out the people, and those who had small children, decided to leave.
"I do not know, Cat, "replied Quinn, as he saw the guards dragging Filly onto the gallows to where the hangman and noose were. Filly turned into a coward, when he saw the noose that was waiting for him. The old thief started crying and begging the guards to not put the noose round his neck.
"Why do you not come with me, because I am now part of the adventurers' guild. We do not have enough thieves, as members. They would teach you how to fight with a weapon, and how to open locks, and disarm traps. And you will get more respect from the common people, when they learn that you are an adventurers' thief, "stated Cat.
They were looking at Filly, who had the noose around his neck. Filly finally saw them, and was about to expose them. The trap was dropped open, and Filly lost his life. Quinn turned pale, as he saw Filly's eyes popped open. The angle of the cutthroat's neck was hideous to look at.
Quinn turned to see a grimacing Cat, and said, "I will go with you, Cat. I do not want to die like Filly. " Cat smiled warmly at Quinn, and took him by the arm. They left a dead Filly, and an excited crowd.
Tauriel, Lilybelle, and Tiki were eating some pieces of cheese and fruit, as they waited for Kili and Fili.
"Did you miss me? "teased Kili, as he joined his family at the tavern's table. Fili sat next to Lilybelle, and gave her hug.
"He is hanged already? "asked Tauriel.
"We do not know, "said Fili. "We left before they brought out that, cur. We did not want to see someone get hanged. "
"Captain Patric said he will come by here to let us know, when that cutthroat is dead, "said Kili, who signaled the waitress. It was the same red-haired waitress that had served them before. She was the wife of the owner of Witt's.
"Do you have any fish today? "asked Fili.
"Yes, today we have grilled trout, and grilled vegetables to go with it. "
"Well, we will all have grill trout, "said Kili, as the waitress smiled, and nodded her head. "And we want beer for the elders and lemon juice for my son. " The waitress left smiling. Tauriel looked at Kili, with a questioning look. "Do not worry, Tauriel. I will eat your trout. " Everyone laughed at Kili.
"There is Fili, "said a friendly voice, that sounded like Steven. The group looked up, and saw Steven, Griff, and Ren.
"I told you I would find them, "said a smiling Steven, as he sat next to Lilybelle.
"I am almost done with your sword, Ren. Give me a few more days, and it will ready for you to use, "said Fili.
"That is fine, Fili. We really wanted to talk to you about going into the dungeon with us to hunt down treasure, "said Ren.
"We figure you could use the gold, since business had been slow for you, Fili, "said Griff, who stood next to Ren.
"I do not want Fili going into those dangerous dungeons, "cried Lilybelle. "I am scared that he might not come back to me. " Fili patted Lilybelle's hand to reassure her.
"When I am in dire need of gold, I will contact you, "said a smiling Fili. "But for now, I do get business at the forge every now and then. "
"Besides, Lilybelle. I will watch over Fili for you, "declare Steven.
"And who will take care of you, Steven? "teased Ren, as Griff and Ren laughed. Steven frowned at his friend, and stood.
"Kili, "said a voice. All turn to see a pale Captain Patric standing near the dwarves' table. "The deed is done. You will never have to fear about Filly the cutthroat again. "
"That is right! You were supposed to hang that cur today, "said Griff, as he looked at the pale Captain.
"Yes, it was horrible. My guards and I had to fight the crowd, because they want pieces of the thief, "said the grim Captain Patric, as he remembered the scene. "Well, have a pleasant day, folks. " The Captain bowed, and joined some guards that were waiting for him. They were heading for the Rusty Spoon tavern. The group at the table could hear Captain Patric saying that he needed some ale.
"Poor Captain Patric. I do not think he wanted to see that hanging, but it was part of his duty to witness the death of that thief, "stated Griff. "Well, you know where to find us, Fili. We will talk to you later. " The three men waved to Kili and Fili's and their family, and followed Captain Patric to the Rusty Spoon tavern.
"So, did you buy something, Tauriel? "teased Kili, as he smiled at his wife.
"Yes, I bought a keepsake pouch for myself, "answered Tauriel, who showed Kili and Fili her green pouch. The two dwarves were enchanted by the image of the Tree of Gondor.
"What tree is this? "asked Fili, who was touching the engraved image.
"The old woman said it was the White Tree of Gondor, "replied Tauriel.
"And Tiki, have you already put a lock of your hair into the pouch? "teased Kili.
"Not yet, Da, "said a smiling Tiki. "I will cut some of my hair, and you need to so as well. "
"I do? And ruin my lovely locks? "said a smiling Kili.
"Da! "replied a frowning Tiki. Everyone laughed at the face Tiki was making.
"I am just teasing you, son. I want my lovely wife to have a memento of me, when I am no longer here to be with her, "said a sad Kili.
"What do you mean, Da? "asked a confused Tiki. Kili sighed, and then smiled at his son.
"You need to know this, son. Dwarves live up to three hundred years or a bit more. While, elves live thousands of years, and your Ma is a pure blood elf. We do not know how long you will live, but most likely your Ma will probably out live us, both. So, enjoy every precious moment we have together, as a family. Because family is the greatest treasure there ever is in Middle-Earth, "stated a teary-eyed Kili. Tiki started crying, as his parent hugged and kissed him. "Do not be sad son, because I am barely in my thirties. I am not as old like your Uncle Fili. "
"Hey! I am not that old, Kili! "shouted Fili, who hit a laughing Kili, in the back of his head. Everyone laughed at the two brothers, who were laughing. The waitress returned with their food, and places it on the table.
"Thank you, "said a smiling Tiki, as he looked at the delicious looking grill trout. Everyone took their plates and mugs.
"Here to family! "toasted Fili.
"To family! "said everyone at the table, as they drank from their mugs.
"Tiki, the family talked about you after your great Uncle Thorin accusations. Uncle Thorin figured that you needed your own bow. So, he gave me twenty Traveler's gold to purchase your bow. Aunt Susy suggested getting you a magical bow, which creates its own arrows, so you will never run out. Steven told me about a shop here in the grand marketplace that sold magical weapons, and was run by an honest owner, "stated Fili.
"Really? A bow of my own? "said an excited Tiki.
"Yes, son. I know how you feel, when Uncle Thorin gave me my first bow I was excited as well. That bow went with me everywhere, "said a smiling Kili.
"Yes, the silly ninny slept with it. Your Da was ten years at the time, "remarked a teasing Fili. Everyone laughed at Fili, as Kili tried to punch his brother in the shoulder.
"At least I did not bath with it, like you did your first sword, Fili, "teased Kili. The two brothers laughed, as their wives and son smiled at the brotherly love shown between the two dwarves.
Watching Kili and Fili, Tauriel realized that she made the right choice marrying Kili. She had never felt this happy, not even when King Thranduil made her head of the Mirkwood guards. She smiled, as she realized that Tiki had the same love of life, like his father. Kili was right about her out living him, but she was not sure about Tiki. But Tauriel knew that if she out live her Tiki, she will take the ship and never return to Middle-Earth again.
They finished their meal, and asked the owner of Witt's, where the fame weapons shop was.
"If you go across from my place, you will see a reddish brick building. That is the weapon shop, and it is one of the few brick places in Logan. The sign said Banan's, so you will know you are at the right place, "said the owner of Witt's
"Thank you, "said Fili, as he led the way to Banan's.
The companions saw that the people were heading back into the marketplace after the hanging, as they headed to Banan's. They found the brick shop, which had a large sign over the entrance of the shop, which says Banan's. They were surprise to find Bomber, Bofur, and Bifur in the shop talking to a white-haired dwarf.
"What bring this merry family into my cousin's shop? "asked a happy Bofur, as his kin turn to see who he was talking to.
"Kili! Fili! Tauriel! Lilybelle! And our dear friend, Tiki! "shouted Bombur, as Bifur hurried over to hug each individual.
"We are here to purchase a magical bow for Tiki. I hope Master Banan take Traveler's gold? "asked an inquiring Kili.
"Ho ho! Of course I take Traveler's gold. It is my favorite kind of gold, "said Banan. He was given that name, because he was born with white hair, and grew up with white hair. His kin always teased him, and call him 'cotton-head', which he finally stops getting angry about it. But he is like Bombur, since he loves food and it shows. And he is like Bofur, because he drinks to excess, and have a red nose. "A bow, you say? "
"Yes. A bow that will have endless arrows, so that he never runs out of them, "said Fili. "My nephew is a great archer, like his parents.
"That is wonderful, "said Banan, who winked at Tiki. "Come with me. I got three bows that magically create arrows. One is too long for the lad, but I do have two short bows. I do not think he will have any problems using them. " Banan led them to a wall that has unstrung bows leaning against the wall. The magical long bow was resting on two hooks, as a display. While the two short magical bows were lying on a small table, underneath the long bow. One bow was a dwarfish bow, which had a strong sturdy-looking wood form. It was made from hickory wood, and was strung with a solid-looking string. Dwarfish markings were etched into the wood saying, 'this bow was issued by the hands of a Firebeard'. Banan grabbed the dwarf bow, and show it to the group in his shop. "This is a good solid dwarf bow, which releases fiery arrows. So, please do not aim at people's houses, my lad. " Everyone laughed at Banan's words, as Tiki looked at the bow.
"What about this bow, Master Banan? "asked Tauriel, who was surprised to see an elfish bow in the shop. The short bow was made from yew, and that had the intricately design that elves favored. The bow had delicate lines, which disguise the strength of the bow. Tauriel loved the bow, and hope her son would choose this bow over the other one.
"Ah! You got a good-eye, my lady. This bow is elfish made, which are the finest in the land. This bow will never fail its' owner. But I am afraid that the bow only releases simple arrows, nothing like the fiery bow, "stated Banan.
"So, which bow do you want, son? "asked Kili. Tiki looked at both bows, and was going to pick up the dwarf bow. But something stopped him, and he looked at the lovely elf bow. Tiki gently picked up the elf bow, and it felt right to be in his hand.
"I want this bow, Da, "said Tiki, who looked at Kili, who smiled brightly. "Is it alright to take this one? "
"You take the one you want, son. At least I will not be putting out fires, "teased Kili. Everyone laughed, as Tiki smiled at his Da. Kili and Fili haggled most of the morning, but they finally agreed to pay seven Traveler's gold for the bow.
They headed back to Oakenshield to give Thorin back the rest of the Traveler's gold, as Bombur, Bofur, and Bifur joined them.
"You got a great bow there, Tiki. Now, you can defend us from any monster that attacks the city of Logan, "stated a smiling Bofur.
"Even the witch I heard that taken up the south dungeon as her new home? "asked Bombur, with big eyes.
"What witch? "asked Fili, as Kili and Tauriel looked over to Tiki. They both knew that their son was scared of witches. Tiki was quiet, as he walked with the group.
"You have not heard, Fili? She had already captured a couple of adventurers, and no telling how many more before she is defeated, "answered Bofur.
"Does she have a name? "asked Kili, who was curious.
"What was the name, Bombur? "asked Bofur.
"The Siren, because she lured men into her trap, "answered Bombur. Tiki had a strange feeling that he will one day meet this Siren. Tiki and his family and friends enter the property of Thorin Oakenshield.