Your Highness

Summary: After an emotional night of revealing secrets, and a bit of deflowering, Dwalin, and Fili find themselves in a love affair that defies all customs, and traditions of their people, let alone the royal family. Will Fili finally be able to break the chains of his birthright, or will tradition hold it's place above the matters of the heart? (DwalinXFili)

Chapter 2: Odin

When Fili awoke, it took him a moment to remember where he was. He was lying alone in the large stone bed, with blankets wrapped all around him. He snuggled into the bed for a moment. It smelled of Dwalin, and he felt so at peace, cocooned into the fluffy comforter. Then it occurred to him...

What time is it? Oh, Mahal, they'll know I didn't come home. Thorin will be looking for me!

He jumped up and quickly changed. He had his same, tan pants, and brown boots, with a green tunic, and simple leather belt with only a small emeralds all the way around it. Just as he was fastening his belt, Dwalin walked in. He smiled at him, but also gave him a confused look. Dwalin was already changed, wearing black boots, and pants, and a red, cotton tunic with the Durin crest adorning the back. His belt was a black leather with a large ruby in the center of the buckle.

"Goin' already?"

"How late in the morning is it?"

"Almost lunch time."

"I have to." He walked over and placed a quick kiss on Dwalin's lips. "Thorin will know I didn't come home, and he knows I was drinking. He'll be looking."

Dwalin nodded, and caressed his face. "I'll be seeing ya, Master Fili."

Fili smiled and gave him another kiss, this one a little deeper. Then without another word, he walked over to the door, and since the first time he entered it, he opened it, and slid out. There was no one around, and he managed to get a safe distance away from Dwalin's home before coming across anyone, even though that happened to be some guards, who would have never questioned him about anything.

Just as he turned the corner, heading to the Great Hall to find his brother, he almost walked right into Thorin.

"Ah, Fili. There you are."

"Uh, Yeah. Were you ... looking for me?"

"I was. Come with me." Thorin looked down at him and gave him a frown. "Fili your still in the same clothes as last night. Go, freshen up. Meet me in the Great Hall as soon as you're ready."

He nodded, grateful to have the time to do so. "Yes, Uncle. I'll see you in a moment."

Thorin bowed a bit to his nephew, and turned away from him.

Fili rushed off to his chambers. When he arrived he took a deep breath, and couldn't help but let out a childish laugh. He felt like he was fifty again, giddy from getting away with sneaking out. He changed quickly into his same brown boots, matching pants, and deep blue, silver lined tunic, with a matching silver, chain belt, that hung just slightly loose on his hips. He looked in his mirror and fixed his hair, having to redo several braids.

Just before walking out, the same breeze from the night before rolled in and he found himself shivering. He reached toward to hook on the wall, and then noticed with a shock, his dark, fur overcoat was not there. Then, he remembered... Dwalin had pushed it off him in his kitchen. In his rush, he'd left his overcoat with Dwalin. He sighed, but smiled. Guess that was as good of an excuse as any to return to him.

He walked out, thankful his tunic was long sleeved, and head to the Great Hall.

When he walked in, he immediately noticed Thorin speaking to an older dwarf he had never seen before. He hated meeting officials from other kingdoms. It just felt awkward.

"Ah, Fili." Thorin said when he noticed him. "This is Ludin, son of Tudin. A representative of the noble dwarves of the Ivory Hills. A far land to the east."

"Fili, son of Vili, at your service." He bowed and the noble dwarf returned it.

"Ludin, at your's." He replyed politely, "Forgive me if I sound forward, but I had your uncle call for you, in hopes that you would do me a favor."

"How may I be of service?"

"My son, Odin, is but a few years older than you. He was forced to come on this journey with me, and I'm afraid he's had a terrible time. Would you mind showing him around the famous halls of Erebor? Perhaps spending time with such a well composed prince will teach him a thing or two, and hopefully spending time with someone his age will be enjoyable for him."

Fili nodded politely. "It would be my pleasure, Sir." In his mind, however, Fili was rolling his eyes. Great, now he'd be playing the role of babysitter.

"Very good, then." Ludin said with a bright smile on his face. "I believe he is still downstairs by the drawbridge. I did mention he was not having an enjoyable venture. My apologies in advance."

Before Fili could ask what he meant, he started talking to Thorin, and they started walking away. Fili sighed and headed to the large staircase that led down to the drawbridge. He sighed deeply when he reached the top of them, looking down to see a dwarf, sitting on the bottom stair, arms crossed like a child. Just before he started down, a voice came from behind him.

"Your majesty..."

He turned to see Dwalin. He had a smile on his face, and his arms were behind his back.

"Master Dwalin." He bowed a bit, and smiled back at him.

Dwalin looked down the stairs and noticed the young dwarf sitting there. He pointed. "Never seen 'im before."

"You wouldn't. He's a noble dwarf's son from the Ivory Hills. I'm supposed to show him Erebor."

"'Ave fun with that, I heard the gate guards talking earlier of a noble dwarf and his lad. Said the boy was a right brat, he was."

"Great..."

"You left your coat." Dwalin said with a smirk.

Fili gave him a look and looked around, but no one could hear them. "I'll come get it tonight."

They both looked when Odin stood and started pacing impatiently in front of the drawbridge. Fili sighed, and looked to Dwalin, who understood. "Duty calls?" Fili said.

"Then I'll take my leave." He bowed to Fili, who returned it. "I'll be seeing you, Little Prince."

Fili felt a chill go through him at the pet name, and Dwalin turned and left. He turned his attention to Odin. He took a deep breath, and tried to put on his most professional expression. He walked over halfway down the stairs before speaking.

"Odin, I presume?"

"Who wants to know?"

"Fili, son of Vili, at your service." He bowed, but Odin waved him off.

"Yeah, yeah. At your's, and so forth. So you're the prince around here?"

"I'm the heir, yes."

"Oh, that's right, the King is your uncle, so you're like half-prince, huh?"

Fili wasn't quite sure how to respond. It was obviously offensive, but Fili tried to suppress his want to fly off the handle. "I don't think it's possible to be a half-prince."

"Hmm... probably not. I guess you still get a whole throne, and a whole kingdom, so you could be a whole prince."

"Are there no such things as manners in the Ivory Hills?"

"There is a such thing, Fili, son of Vili", He spoke with a venom in his voice. "As class, and that is all that matters."

"You believe a dwarf lower than you based on his social standing?"

"Do you not?"

"Not at all."

"Hm. Some king you'll make one day. Won't even be able to tell the difference between a commoner and a noble."

"That is no measurement of someone's self worth."

"Oh please, don't give me your righteous king dribble."

"I was sent here to show you around our kingdom, and provide you with company. If you would like to do that, we can. If you would prefer to stand here and insult me, I'll go."

"Oh alright. Let's just blame cultural differences. I'd love to see your treasury."

Fili sighed. "Very well. Follow me."

As they walked up the steps, Fili dreaded his day. Babysitting, indeed. He strolled through the halls, when he passed citizens, they would bow to him and he would return it at least with a bow of his head.

"Why do you do that?" Odin asked finally, after about the third time.

"Do what?"

"Bow. You are a prince, you know?"

"I'm being polite."

"What you're being is undignified. These people are your subjects, not your friends."

Just as Fili was about to respond, Balin turned the corner in front of them. "Ah, Fili, my lad!" He said and greeted him with a warm smile. "How are you fairing on this beautiful morn?"

"Better for seeing you, my friend. Balin, allow me to introduce Odin, son of Ludin, a noble representative of the Ivory Hills."

"At your service." Balin bowed.

"Yes, are you quite finished? I'd like to see your treasury before the night is upon us."

Fili held his breath and bit his tongue. Balin simply smiled and shook his head. "I'd better be goin' anyway. Take care, Fili." He bowed again to Odin and started to go but then turned around. "Oh, and I'll send for Dwalin to meet you at the treasury. He has the key."

Fili couldn't hide his smile. "Thank you, Balin. Tell him we'll meet at once."

Balin bowed in agreement and headed on down the hall.

Fili led his not-so pleasant guest on through Erebor. He already hated him, and wished he would just go back where he'd come from. He found himself suddenly concerned about meet Dwalin. He wanted to see him, and was glad for the happenstance, but Odin was a much unwelcome addition to situation. If he were to be rude to Dwalin, Fili feared he might grow too angry to hold his kingly demeanor. Perhaps he could rush Dwalin away before it happened. Even though, he didn't ever want to rush Dwalin away from him. Just another reason to dislike his new acquaintance.

When they finally reached it, Dwalin was already standing there. He bowed to Fili, who returned it, almost just to annoy his accompaniment. "Dwalin, meet Odin, Son of Ludin."

Dwalin bowed low. "Dwalin, Captain of the Guard, at your service."

"Captain, huh? Are you here to open the treasury?"

"Aye."

"Get to it, then."

Fili clenched his fists, but watched silently as Dwalin unlocked that large, stone door, and pulled it open. Odin walked in and gasped. The treasure of Erebor was magnificent, and continuous. He stood at the edge of the stairs, looking from one way to another, his eyes almost glowing green with want.

"If I push him down the stairs, would you turn me in?" Fili whispered to Dwalin, who chuckled.

"Never."

Odin turned. He didn't hide the envious glow in his eyes. "I assume homage has been paid to my father?"

"That would be up to the king, though it's not common practice to pay homage to someone of lower status."

Odin's face went red at being so intentionally insulted. "I believe I've seen quite enough, half-prince."

Fili noticed the way Dwalin stood taller at the insult, and clenched his fists behind his back.

"Ill show myself back. Thank you." He shoved by Fili, who was trying hard not to laugh at him. He stomped away, and they could still hear his loud footsteps even after he'd turned the corner.

"He's gonna get lost." Dwalin said, as he swung the huge door closed and locked it tight.

"Not my problem, anymore."

"I'm afraid it is."

Fili sighed. He was right, of course. He couldn't very well let him walk off with no knowledge of where he was going. He'd be far more upset by the time he did return to his father, though Fili was sure he had plenty to tell him already.

"I'd better go, then."

Dwalin nodded. "Aye, maybe you can smooth is over with junior."

Fili rolled his eyes. "Maybe."

Dwalin walked over, and placed a small kiss on his forehead. "Go on. We'll see each other tonight."

Fili pulled himself away and ran after Odin. He easily caught up with him.

"Odin, wait."

He didn't stopped. Fili quickened his pace and walked beside him. "Odin, I'm sorry for my words. I'm not trying to disrespect you."

Odin scoffed and said nothing.

"I'm trying to apologize."

"Don't. It doesn't matter. My father will hear of this."

"Would you like me to take you to him?"

"No. Take me to the drawbridge. I'll wait there until I'm able to leave this hole."

"As you wish."

They walked in silence for a moment, then finally, Odin spoke, but this time his tone had changed. He sounded more like a normal dwarf. "I apologize for my behavior. I was forced to come on this trip and I have projected that on you."

Fili was sincerely shocked at his sudden turn around. "Thank you, Odin. I accept."

They walked in another silence, but this one more comfortable.

Then Odin spoke again: "Are you spoken for, Prince of Erebor?"

"Spoken for? You mean courtship or engagement?"

"Either, I suppose."

"Well, I have neither. I only just came of age. My birthday is soon though."

"How old will you turn?"

"Sixty-eight."

"A fine age to start a courtship. My first was at sixty-six. It didn't last, but I'm glad I had it."

Fili felt kind of odd having this conversation, with who, not a minuet ago, he would've shoved down the stairs of the treasury without a second thought.

"I've never had one. I don't think I want one." He was thinking of Dwalin.

"Ah, you'll change your mind. Besides, sooner or later, you'll be given a consort. You're a prince."

Fili took a breath. He was right. Eventually, the house always chooses a consort for their heir if none is found in a reasonable time. He knew that Thorin wouldn't force him to be with someone he didn't care for, but he would at least have him try.

He also knew, though, he would never allow him to be with the dwarf he found himself falling for. There were too many things going against them.

Before Fili said another word, they arrived at the drawbridge, and to his surprise, Thorin and Ludin were already standing there, bidding each other farewell.

"Odin, my son!" Ludin said when he noticed the two. "Did you enjoy your time with Prince Fili?"

"I did." He said simply and Fili was sincerely surprised. "He showed me your treasury. The stories of the wealth of Erebor do it no justice."

Thorin nodded. "Thank you, Odin. You're both welcome here whenever you'd like. I still wish you would join us for supper."

"No, no." Ludin said, politely, "We must be going if we hope to end our journey on time. Thank you, Thorin Oakenshield, for your time and hospitality, and you Fili, for looking after my son."

Fili nodded. "It was a pleasure to be of service."

They said a few more goodbyes, and finally were led out of the gates by the guards and stewards. When they were far enough away, Thorin turned. "Walk with me, Fili."

Fili did so. "What did you think of Odin?"

"Honestly?"

"Of course."

"I thought he was a spoiled, pretentious, pig headed brat."

Thorin laughed. "Is that so?"

"I suppose not by the end. He did apologize for what he'd said. I told him I accepted it."

"Good then. No harm done. They could be important allies for us."

Fili nodded.

"You seem tired, Fili, you should go get something to eat."

"I'm not hungry."

"I didn't ask."

Fili sighed. "As you wish."

Thorin placed a hand on his back, and stopped him at the top of the stairs. "What is troubling you?"

"Nothing now." Fili lied, "He just got under my skin a bit."

"Don't mind him. Odin's never known a hardship and it's caused him to be a bit jaded. Don't let him affect you."

"I'm trying not to."

"Go now. Eat, and feel better."

Fili bowed to his uncle, who returned it, just as low.

Fili walked through the halls. Thorin had told him to go eat, but he didn't want to. There was only one place he wanted to go. He made his way through the halls until he found himself at Dwalin's door. He wasn't sure if he should knock, but he didn't want to walk in uninvited. He sighed and lifted his arm.

"Won't do any good, lad."

He smiled and closed his eyes. He turned to see Dwalin standing there. "How did you know I was here?"

"I didn't. Yer uncle told me to find ya, and make sure you got yourself somethin' to eat. I was gonna get yer coat first. It's getting colder."

"Well... want to get some supper?"

Dwalin smiled. "Best be getting your coat, first." He walked over and opened his door. Fili followed him inside. It was just as they had left it, except the fire was nothing now but smoking embers, and the warm feeling had gone away. Dwalin grabbed his coat from the table and handed it to him. Fili thanked him, and put it on. They walked out, and Dwalin made sure his door was shut.

They walked together, through the halls, to the kitchen, and dining hall. Fili was smiling softly to himself, happy to be in the warrior dwarf's company.

"So how'd it go with your new friend?"

"He actually apologized. He was a little prick, but there's some good in there, I guess."

Dwalin laughed. "He'll learn one day that being that way doesn't get ya anythin'. Especially from those who don't have to listen."

They walked into the kitchen where Bombur was hard at work on some kind of stew. "Ah ha!" He said happily when they arrived. Fili smiled at him, but Dwalin looked around for potential hazards. Bombur was an excellent chef, but that didn't make him a safe one.

"Master Dwalin! Master Fili! Come to fill yer bellies with some of Bombur's delicacies have you?"

"Delicacies? Don't make me laugh."

Bombur laughed heartily at Dwalin's comment. "Then you, my dear Dwalin, will starve. How about it, Master Fili?"

"Master Bombur, you are an artist of supper, and a wizard of your craft. Master Dwalin would do well to remember."

"Ah ha!" Bombur immediately started rushing around grabbing ingredients and stoking his fire. "I shall make you a supper for kings, Master Fili! I have some slop that was meant for the hounds, but I suppose Master Dwalin would prefer it."

Fili laughed. "Make us the same, please, Master Bombur."

He bowed to the prince. "As you wish, Sire. I shall have it set in the dining hall in a half hour."

"Thank you. I expect the best."

"Nothing but, for you, Master Fili, and your tasteless companion, if you wish."

"I do." Fili laughed again.

"Say that to my ax." Dwalin said, but they all knew he was joking.

They made their way to out the door, and on the the dining hall, to await their supper. As the went, the silence was comfortable. Then, Fili suddenly stopped. They had found themselves at the balcony where they had their unpleasant meeting the night before.

Without a word, Fili walked out onto it. He made sure to stay back from the rail. Dwalin stood behind him, giving him space and time to do whatever it was he needed to. Fili took a deep breath and glanced over the edge. To the untrained eye, and he was sure to Dwalin, he was looking over thanking every god and ancestor he could that he had not fallen, that he was saved, and was wishing he'd never done such a stupid thing. In reality, though, in his own mind, he wanted to see if he was scared of it. If he would give a natural reaction of someone who had been yanked from the brink of death just one day earlier.

He wrapped his hands around the rail tightly and leaned over just enough to see the ground, now visible, with the fog lifted, in the light of the sun set.

It wasn't there. The fear. The rush. Nothing... and he knew, deep down, that the ledge didn't induce any more fear than standing where he was. He felt tears start to come up in his eyes as he stared down. Even after all that had happened. The fear of death. The fear of it all ending. The care for anything other than... Well, Dwalin, and that was as of only last night. It wasn't there.

What's wrong with me?

He couldn't understand where his light had gone. Where he had lost his eye for the good in the world, or himself?

With Dwalin standing right behind him. He felt as safe as he possibly could, and it didn't matter. He knew, also, deep down, that he was already in love with Dwalin. It was just a matter of the right time to make it seem normal he guessed, but it still wasn't there!

The sound of a bird flying overhead caused him to look up, and it broke his trance. He quickly wiped away his tears and took a deep breath, before turning.

Dwalin was standing, arms crossed, watching him. He didn't look at all like he thought Fili was going to jump and he was incredibly thankful for that. Maybe Dwalin understood a bit more than he thought.

"Ya alright, lad?"

Fili nodded. "Yeah. I'm fine."

Dwalin nodded, and turned, staying just half a step in front of Fili as they walked the rest of the way to the dining hall. When they arrived, their dinner was still being brought out and sat up. They stayed by the door while they finished.

There was no one else in the dining hall. The massive, rectangular tables were empty, all except the far right corner which was being set up for them. It was late to be having supper. The torches were still lit, and the room glowed a brilliant orange. Fili had always liked it in there when it was empty. The high sculpted ceilings made the room feel so open, and comfortable.

When the dinner had been set, they sat down, and it was only then Fili noticed he hadn't eaten all day. Bombur really had made a king's supper. A whole chicken, made perfectly along with every vegetable, fruit, and bread you could imagine. Then, right in the middle was a cake, adorned with whipped cream and strawberries and it made Fili smile. Bombur knew it was his favorite.

They started eating in silence, and Fili was the first to speak: "You know what that our favorite noble asked me after he apologized to me?"

"What's that?"

"He asked if I was spoken for."

Dwalin looked at him, as if unsure of how to react.

Fili didn't want to sound like he was implying anything. "It was just a bit shocking. No one has ever asked me that before."

Dwalin let out a slight chuckle. "Perhaps ye caught 'is eye."

Fili visibly shuddered. "I could never be with someone so pompous."

"No?"

"Never."

"Even with what he has to offer?"

Fili looked at him, a bit hurt, but it was a fair question. "I'm the heir to Erebor. The greatest kingdom in Middle Earth. What would I have to care for what someone wants to offer me?"

"That's all yer family is going to caring about in yer consort."

Fili knew what he was getting at, and he was a bit annoyed with he would suggest something like that. He wanted to change the subject. They were having dinner together, he wanted it to be a good one. "It's getting colder. I hope it snows soon."

Dwalin went along with the change, and Fili was relieved. "I don't. Nothing but a mess, that."

Snow was one thing Fili did enjoy. Always had. Perhaps it was because he was born in winter. "Oh no. I disagree, Master Dwalin."

"Disagree all ya want. Still a mess."

Fili laughed. He was content. He'd nearly forgotten the balcony, and almost forgot that they were only sitting there as friends. He looked over at Dwalin, and till couldn't believe what had happened the night before. He felt a blush coming across his cheeks as he thought of it.

He looked over at Dwalin, and caught him staring. "What is it?"

"Nothin'... Just lookin'."

Fili really was blushing now. He sighed and looked over his plate at the half-eaten slice of cake. It was incredible. The best one he'd ever made, but Fili just couldn't think of finishing it.

"I'm guessing you'll be heading home after this." Dwalin said, taking a drink for his mug.

Fili didn't respond. He wasn't sure what he had really planned on doing, but he knew he didn't want to go home. He didn't want to impose, and invite himself back over to the warrior dwarf's home. Besides, he still hadn't registered the first time. He just kind of sat there and finished what was left in his own mug.

"Is that where you think I should go?"

Dwalin gave him a confused look. He sat for a moment, looking at him before speaking: "I'm no one to be telling you where you should be going, Master Fili."

"Maybe I just value your opinion."

Dwalin smiled. "Maybe you'd like some more coffee, then."

Fili returned his smile. "Maybe I would."

They stood, and started heading for the large doors when suddenly, a guard rushed in, almost running into them. "Captain, Your Majesty, come... there's been an accident."

"What's happened?" Dwalin said, and immediately started to follow.

They were going at a jog as the guard spoke. "You remember the noble dwarf, and his son... the one's who were here before. The son returned, beaten and bloody, says his father was killed by orcs on the road. He's in the Great Hall with the king."

"Orcs?" Dwalin said. "So close?"

"It's what he said, Sir. That's all I heard before I was ordered to fetch you."

Fili couldn't believe it. He felt so bad for Odin. A bit ago, he was glad to be rid of him forever, and now... he just felt horrible for thinking that way.

They ran into the Great Hall, and Thorin immediately addressed Dwalin. "Get a team together. Your best. I want these vial pests found, and dealt with."

"Yes, Sire." Dwalin turned, and without even looking at Fili rushed out

Fili turned, determined to follow, and go with him on the hunt, but Thorin spoke: "Fili! Not you."

"Why not?"

"I need you to tend to Odin. Have him mended, have a bath drawn. He's very shaken."

"Uncle, I'm not..."

"He asked for you. Just go talk to him, and make sure the preparations are made. I have to make sure this filth is taken care of." He had spoken, and he walked by. He noticed Odin, standing behind where Thorin had been.

He looked up at Fili. He was a bit taller than Fili, even though he was less fit. He had a red tinted hair, with a full beard that was braided with green emerald beads. He had deep blue eyes. A bit like Fili's only not as bright. His bright blue robes were stained and ripped. He was obviously exhausted.

Fili walked over. "Odin, are you alright?"

"I-I don't know."

"Come with me." He took Odin's hand and lead him to the bath house. He found a steward and ordered the bath be made ready, and medical supplies be brought down for him to use.

"It was so ... fast." Odin said as they walked.

"It's alright. You're safe now."

"Are you sure? What if they don't find them?"

"Dwalin is the bet tracker I know. He will."

Odin still had a worried expression on his face.

When they reached the bath house, Fili could see the steam rising. He opened the door, and was pleased to see everything had been made ready as he'd asked. There were fresh clothes laid out, and the supplies he'd asked for beside them.

"Where are you hurt?"

Odin looked around, but finally took his robe down from his chest to show what looks like a stab wound that had missed it's mark, leaving a large gash on his side. Fili quickly started to clean it.

"You're going to need stitches."

Odin winced as Fili gave the wound one more dab. He pulled out the twine and needle. He threaded it expertly, and Odin watched him. "What are you? A healer-prince, now?"

"My friend, Oin, taught me a thing or two. He's the real healer. I can patch this up, at least."

Odin had to grip the bench he was sitting on as Fili start, ad gently as he could.

"Are you alright? "

"I will be. Just do it. "

Fili did so, trying his best not to hurt him. He took it well, considering, and Fili was done quickly.

"Thank you." Odin said as he looked down.

"You're welcome. The bath is ready, and these clothes are for you. I suppose we could provide you with something else if these aren't to your liking."

Fili wasn't trying to be coy, or rude. He was sincerely attempting to accommodate his high-maintenance guest.

"These will be fine. Thank you."

Fili then bowed, and Odin actually returned it. He walked out into the hallway, and felt grateful for the moment. He walked over to another balcony, and looked out, not down, and wondered where Dwalin was. He was frustrated Thorin made him stay behind. He was capable of going with them, and could have helped. He also knew he wanted to be with him.

He tried to shake it off, and thought for a second it was probably a needed interruption. He was prepared to go back to Dwalin's for "coffee", yeah... they both knew. Not that he didn't want that. He did, but maybe he was getting caught up in something that wasn't exactly what he needed right now.

If they got caught, Dwalin would loose everything. Everyone would look down on him, if for nothing else, Fili's age. Let's not forget being Thorin's nephew. Oh, how would he ever be able to look at him again?

Fili felt anger rising in his chest. Why did he have to feel this way? He didn't ask for any of this. What if he didn't want to be prince? What if he just wanted to be Fili? Filli... a dwarf that could be with whoever he wanted... one who didn't have to deal with the constant back and forth of royal life? He felt very trapped. Trapped in his very own skin.

He stared out into the vastness. It was dark and he couldn't see to far. It reminded him of the night before...

He looked down, and saw the same kind of ledge of the balcony. He took a shaky breath, knowing, that if he were to climb onto it, Dwalin wouldn't be there to save him. Perhaps someone else would, but he simply couldn't stand that idea of that awkwardness. Still, he wanted to.

Something inside him kept saying that if he tempted it just enough, he would find his feeling again. He would reel back from the air, gripped with terror, and collapse onto the balcony just in time, with a will to live again... and if he didn't... well, he supposed it simply wouldn't matter then. He found himself staring down at the ledge, wondering if he was going to, even though he knew he shouldn't.

"Sire?"

He nearly jumped out of skin when the guard spoke to him. So much so the guard took a step back.

"I'm sorry, Your Majesty. I didn't mean to startle you."

Fili took a deep breath. "No, no. It's alright. What is it?"

"The King would like to see you in the Great Hall."

Fili nodded. "Yes, thank you. Oh, um... have a room prepared for Odin, and stay here and wait for him. Make sure he is comfortable."

"Of course, Sir. Right away."

"Thank you."

He walked passed him, and headed quickly to the Great Hall, still trying to catch his breath. He placed a hand on his chest and felt his heart, even through his heavy coat. He shivered as a cold blast of air flew through from the opening of the balconies that lined the outside hall he was in. He felt completely rattled. He tried his best to compose himself before entering the Great Hall.

Thorin was standing there, Dwalin at his side.

"Where is Odin?"

"The bath house."

"Good. Come here."

Fili walked closer, and the three of them stood together. "Tell him what you told me." Thorin said to Dwalin.

"We found the cart, and remains of the battle, but... there were no orcs there, now or before. The signs aren't there. Makes no sense, what he told us."

"Wait... so he lied?"

Dwalin nodded. "He said there was seven or eight orcs out there, what attacked his father, and tried to kill him, but there are no tracks leading to or from it. Except his. He said he was able to slash one of 'em after it tried to gut him, but there's no blood trail. No blood at all actually. Except his, and maybe Ludin's. One thing he did say true, though, Ludin is dead, but his body was burned in a heap with the cart, so I can't say what did 'im in."

Fili looked up at Thorin, and back to Dwalin. "So then.. who killed Ludin, and who slashed Odin? I patched it up myself, someone tried to stab him."

Thorin took a deep breath. "Odin doesn't seem the type for murder."

"I can't argue with what I saw." Dwalin said, "And what I saw says the only ones out there were Ludin and Odin."

"And Ludin's dead." Fili said, anger bubbling inside him anew for Odin.

"Aye. We can't rule him out, Thorin, but we'll keep looking when there's light."

Thorin nodded to him, and dismissed him. He bowed to Thorin, and then to Fili. He made sure to make eye contact with him when he lifted, and then walked out.

"Uncle... if he.. if he killed him, we can't just let him stay here as a guest."

"And if he didn't?"

"The signs point to him."

"Yes... you're right. However... we'll just keep a watch on him for now. We'll keep a guard with him at all times. Tell him it's for his protection if he protests."

Fili nodded, though he would really prefer they just would just throw him in the dungeon where he belonged.

"See to it. Appoint someone you trust." Thorin placed a hand on his shoulder, "And then get some rest."

Fili bowed to his Uncle, and then left, trying to not show too much disapproval for Thorin's decision. To be honest, he didn't trust anyone as well as he wanted to in order to appoint them to such a task. Except Dwalin, but he refused. He really couldn't live with himself if something were to happen to him. He decided he would ask Dwalin to choose someone. Also, an excuse to go there.

He rushed through the halls, and found Dwalin, just about to go into his home. "Dwalin..." He said, and the older dwarf looked up. He smiled at him.

"Ya following me, lad?"

"Trying to." He walked closer to him, "I really do need your help with something. Thorin wants a dwarf I trust to keep I vigil on Odin. I want you to choose someone."

Dwalin nodded. "Aye, I can do that." He turned from his door, and started down the corridor. Fili followed. "I'll put Ori on it. He's become quite the soldier, and he's good at staying up late. I'd say it's something we can trust him with."

They walked down to the gate, where they found Ori walking around, looking rather bored.

"Ay, Ori! Come here, lad."

Ori rushed down. "Yes, sir. How can I be of service?"

"I need ya to go to the guest hall, find which room is Odin's. Yer job is to stay with him at all times. At least outside the room. If he leaves, you best go with him, understood?"

"Aye, Captain. I won't let you down."

"I know, and if he tries doing anything funny, you tell me, got me?"

"Aye, aye!" He bowed quickly and rushed off, and Fili could tell he felt proud to have such an assignment.

They started back for Dwalin's room, and on the way, Fili couldn't help but glance over at the balcony he had been at earlier. He felt a blush come back on his face when Dwalin noticed. "You won't be doing that again, will you, Master Fili?"

Fili didn't even pretend not to know what he was referring to. "I haven't, if that's what you mean."

Dwalin didn't respond. As they walked, Fili slowly started to notice they were not heading to Dwalin's home. Then, as if they had been magically placed there, they were in front of the door to his chambers.

"Dwalin..."

Dwalin held up his hand and gave him a sad smile. "I think it'd best if ya get some rest, Master Fili."

Fili knew he was trying to sound as professional as possible, being in the royal quarters. He felt a bit tricked and confused. There was so much he wanted to say, but he couldn't. He tried to think of a way to say it innocently, but couldn't. "Well, then..." Fili turned "Goodnight, then, Master Dwalin."

"I'll be seeing you tomorrow, lad." He bowed low to his prince, and made sure to make that same eye contact as he lifted. Fili quickly glanced, from side to side, and seeing no one, walked over, and placed a sweet kiss on his lips. He backed away quickly, but they were both smiling. It made Fili feel better that he'd kissed him. Perhaps he really was just thinking of what was best him.

"Until tomorrow, Your Majesty." He bowed to him again, and disappeared around the corner. Fili stared for a long time, before turning and heading inside. Perhaps, he should get some rest, everyone seemed to think he needed it...