Hello again! Sorry for the long wait I was just really iffy on how I was gonna go about this chapter but here it is! I'm pretty satisfied with it and please tell me what you think after you've read it! Thanks to all who have stuck with me this far and please go check out killthepain62's fanfiction Welcome Home!

Disclaimer: I do not own the Hobbit or it's characters; I do however own my own and the artwork I put into the series.

Chapter Thirty-Six: A Bittersweet Ending

Lian felt like an utter fool; no she didn't just feel like one, she was one without a doubt. She'd not gone about the situation in the most graceful nor tactful manner; now she'd managed to give them all a reason to lose any faith in her. She didn't even want to face Thorin about the matter for she knew he'd probably call her a blubbering idiot for she certainly felt like one. She'd just been so mad and had selfishly meant everything she said to a certain degree but she knew it still didn't put her in the right; if anything it only showed how much of a child she really was.

She now sat in the garden off the ballroom, the same one her and Thorin had occupied on the night of the ball; the memory of that night brought a faint smile to her face as she fiddled with the new braid that adored the beloved silver clasp. Slowly though she melted back into her self loathing; she couldn't decide if she was truly just a selfish person or simply naive. Her thought was cut short when a small chubby hand touched her cheek, drawing her attention to the child that sat beside her in her frilled blue dress with white ribbons laced into her copper curls. Her chubby legs dangled off the stone bench as her wide blues eyes stared up into Lian's with innocent curiosity sparkling in their depths.

"Muma?" She cooed, slurring over the word and Lian felt a smile touch her lips as tears moistened her lashes. Curiously the child touched the fat droplet as it rolled down Lian's cheek and looked at it before putting her chubby hand in her mouth as if to taste it, causing the woman to laugh.

I'm sorry ya've got yerself a rather foolish mother." Lian said, pressing her cheek to the child's forehead; a lump having formed in her throat. "I'll try to do better."

"Well look who it is; the royal whore."

Lian looked up, taken aback by the intruding sneer as her eyes settled upon the three dwarrowdams before her; she immediately recognized Lady Danora as leader of the group.

"Excuse me?" Lian practically growled out, causing the two unknown dwarrowdams to flinch back at her harsh tone but Danora was the epitome of confidence with an edge of arrogance.

"Don't be intimidated by her ladies; I heard she's nothing more than a fraud when it comes to her title of warrior. Rumor has it she happily sat back while Thorin risked his life to save her from that horrid creature." Danora mocked, her voice nothing like the airy and modest tone she'd had the night of the ball.

"What nonsense are ya prattling on about?" Lian's previous sadness was now pushed into the corners of her heart as anger began to sizzle within her depths; she was never one to back down from a fight in all her life. This dwarrowdam had already insulted her before and so the woman was already itching to get back at her.

"Silence, filth!" Lady Danora spat, her hand striking out so fast that Lian was surprised when she felt the back of her hand meet her cheek harshly; jerking her head to the side with the force. Time froze in that moment for Lian, her train of thought was as silent as an empty void with the only sound being her wildly increasing heartbeat as her red bled into her vision. So many instincts were raging to take a course of action but surprisingly she stayed relatively still as she fought to regain her temper before she did something she'd regret again; one epidemic was all she needed for the day.

Lady Danora looked pleased with herself when she saw that Lian made no move to retaliate, a rush of power flowing over her as she no doubt had this girl under her thumb; no one had the guts to oppose her.

"You disgust me; seducing your way into the King's bed without an ounce of shame, if it wasn't for him then you'd be stoned for your sins. Do you think that your low class title would hold some sway here?" The two dwarrowdams that stood next to Danora had now gained confidence as they closed in on the woman; attempting to intimidate her with her numbers. Oh how bad Lian wanted to knock their heads in, to give this swine a backhand she well deserved along with more violent strikes but she had Lian sitting right beside her on the bench.

"Are ya done? I have better things to do than listen to some bitter hag spout lies out her ass." Lian almost sighed but there was a layer of mockery and sass coating her words like thick honey as she stood, Rowan propped comfortably on her hip. The three dwarrowdams were livid with her indifference, obviously wanting her to break down in tears or beg for them to spare her as it was the usual reaction.

"You bitch!" Danora seethed, bring her hand back for another strike but Lian was more attentive this time and caught her wrist in a vice like grip.

"Touch me again and ya'll regret it; this is my only warning." Lian spoke harshly, green eyes searing into the dwarrowdams blue ones as she squeezed her wrist; even Danora could tell she wasn't bluffing from the tight purse of her lips and flare of her nostrils. All three of them were defiantly shaken by the blunt threat, never had anyone ever spoken to the three ladies in such a manner. Female dwarves were often spoiled and cherished so no one ever really spoke up when they were being unreasonable or selfish; it was just the way things are.

Lian released Lady Danora's wrist, already wanting to just go to her chambers and sleep but that probably wasn't going to happen. Lian would have to just figure out a different sleeping arrangement for the night; she felt too ashamed to even think about asking Thorin. Everyone already thought she had somehow seduced her way into his trousers and she didn't want anymore rumors spreading; she can only imagine what Thorin had heard.

She walked past the group of dwarrowdams, having practically forgotten about them as she mulled over her currant options; however she wasn't expecting for one of the unknown ladies to reach out for her hair. However she had missed and instead ended up grabbing a fist full of Rowan's copper locks and pulling harshly; Rowan let out a sharp shriek and Lian spun around instantly after the dwarrowdam let go in horror once she realized her mistake.

Lian's vision blurred, heart accelerating and before she could even control herself she felt her knuckles connect with the female dwarfs jaw, simultaneously lunging at her. Shrieks' and wails filled her ears to the point where they began to ring but she was beyond sense; she didn't even feel the two pairs of hands trying to claw her off the dwarrowdam or even registered when she'd set Rowan down to lunge at her. All she knew was deep burning rage, Rowan's wails only spurred her on to inflict more pain on the person who hurt her before her very eyes.

A small, more forgiving side of Lian tried to reason that the dwarrowdam didn't mean to grab the child's hair and clearly showed remorse but such timid excuses were smothered under her blinding rage.

"Get off her, you crazy bitch!" She heard Danora screech in her ear; yanking on her hair but Lian simply sent a sharp elbow to her gut as she went in for another blow on the female dwarf below her. Tears streaked down her face as she tried to protect her face with her forearms, surprisingly doing a good job but Lian had gotten her in the jaw and also had given her a fat lip. The other two were taking the most of her blows as they constantly tried to drag her off by her arms, hair, clothes and anything else they could grab.

Suddenly stronger, more muscled arms wrapped around her midriff and pried her away for her to see three guards breaking up the chaos. Danora and the other one were crowded around the sobbing Dwarrowdam on the ground, her dress covered in grass stains and dirt.

"What is the meaning of this?!" The older, gruffer dwarf guard demanded as he laid his eyes on the chaos that was occurring.

"She attacked Lady Lillian for no reason!" Danora instantly accused, pointing a finger straight at Lian who was still being restrained by one of the guards.

"She dared to yank on my child's hair!" Lian roared, her face turning a bright red in her anger and the older guard turned to see Rowan sitting on the ground still wailing as she held her head. Her chubby cheeks were a bright red, glistening as fat tears rolled down her face along with her runny nose; her opened mouth crying showing off her tiny baby teeth.

"It was an accid-."

"Shut it!" The guard hollered, obviously not having the patience to listen to them bicker and they all grew silent, glaring holes into each other.

"Let her go." He barked at the guard holding Lian and as soon as she was free she rushed over the crying Rowan to scoop her up in her arms.

"And as for you…I'm not sure what clan you came from but here in Erebor such behavior is not tolerated. Fenrir and Huburin will take Lady Lillian to the Medical Wing; you two will return back to your chambers." He said simply.

"This is ridiculo-!" Lady Danora began but she was quickly cut off.

"Unless you wish to explain why it is that you attempted to strike his fiancé and assaulted her child?" He bit out and this effectively silenced her as they were led out of the garden area; Lian caught a glimpse of Lady Lillian as she was carried past and felt a pang of guilt for her actions. She didn't like hurting women if possible but her actions were meant to cause harm even if she hadn't meant for it to be on Rowan.

"You're lucky that a maid saw what happened and was able to bare witness to your defense; if not then you'd be the one in trouble and not them. A lady of the clans holds a higher say around here so don't push your luck and go looking for trouble, lass." The older guard warned.

Lian didn't say anything and simply quietly shushed Rowan's cries, bouncing her comfortingly as she walked back into the ballroom. A small crowd had gathered and murmurs were echoing off the great halls; accusing stares were directed at her and even a few nasty words were spat towards her but she simply shoved past them and strode out into the Entry Hall. Eyes were instantly drawn to her, scrutinizing, accusing and hateful and she could feel her frustration building to the point where she was all but running down the stairs. She entered the stables that were located right off the Entry Hall and within minutes the sound of horse shoes rang off the marble floor as she galloped through the Entry Hall towards the main gates.

"Lian? Lian!" She heard from behind her but she didn't turn to see who it was that called after her as she charged through the main gates; Rowan's back tightly pressed into her stomach.

She galloped over the rolling plains before the great mountain, the warm spring air warming her flesh as she rode; cream blouse flapping in the wind along with her rich colored locks. She felt some of the tension fall off her shoulders as she finally felt the open sky above her for the first time in weeks, taking deep a lungful of fresh air. Rowan had calmed down now, sniffing lightly as she looked at the surrounding landscape with interest.

Lian rode fast, wanting to put as much distance between them and the mountain as well as the people dwelling within its stone walls. She thundered down the cobblestone streets of Dale now, the people being smart enough to clear the way before she got too close and trampled them though quite a few nasty words were spat her way. It didn't take much longer for her to soon pass its stone walls as well; heading straight towards the forest that ran along the banks of the Lake that once was home to Lake-Town.

Once inside the forest she slowed to a trot, listening to the snorting of her horse, Berdan; the very same horse that carried her to the rolling hills of The Shire not but a year ago. Times had changed but the horse did not; several times she had to dig her heels into his sides as he began to wander towards a nearby bush to munch on through their travel deeper into the woods.

The forest was humming with life and covered with new growth; sunlight filtering through the crisp green canopy of leaves that had just grown in above as frogs sang their songs with the birds above. Water still coated the leaves and moistened the ground from the early morning rain, creating an almost humid atmosphere but it was pleasant compared to the usually cold walls of the Erebor and Forochel. Rowan cooed at her new surroundings, letting out a fit of giggles when a bird flew from its perch above to send droplets of water raining down on us. Lian felt a tender smile grace her features for the child, leaning her head down to place a kiss on the crown of her coppery curls.

Lian eventually found a small meadow with an array of wild flowers blooming within; there were several stumps hidden in the tall grass so it's safe to assume that it hadn't always been an open area. The Lake-Men must have chopped the trees down for lumber during the winter or fire wood. She dismounted with Rowan, not bother to tie Berdan up anywhere; he wouldn't wander off too far.

Sunlight reflected off the meadow, causing a soft glow to emit throughout quaint but enchanting area and despite all her troubles Lian felt at peace here; like she was in a different world at the moment. Rowan had begun to squirm so she let her down and just like that she was off, her short chubby legs carrying her through the tall grass and flowers as her curls bounced. Giggles filled the air and the woman felt a smile plaster its self on her face as she watched the child hobble around as fast as she could though she did trip a few times.

Lian pet Berdan's thick neck; the mares glossy brown hair smooth to the touch as he gave an appreciative snort before wandering into the clearing to chomp on the tall grass. She joined her giggling child, helping her gather handfuls of flowers and before long Rowan had an entire skirt full; holding the front of her dress up to carry the flowers. Lian sat down and leaned against one of the tree stumps, Rowan plopping down beside her; her pretty white dress damp and stained from the dew that lingered on the flowers.

Rowan turned to look at Lian, as if asking what to do with them now; Lian chuckled, plucking a handful of flowers from the child's skirt to bring to her nose and smell. They had no real scent but you could almost smell the sunshine and water that radiated off their petals and she felt a relaxed smile grace her lips. Rowan's eyes quickly lit up, her chubby arms scooping up the flowers and she buried her face in them with a loud inhale and sigh.

Lian let out a full bellied laugh at the sight, the corners of her sparkling green eyes crinkling with delight and she snatched the child up to press firmly against her in a bear hug. In that moment she felt completely at peace though she knew that such things can never last forever.

Thorin was in the most dreaded of situations; the Clan Leaders were breathing down his next and he'd just found out about the incident that had occurred with Lian and Lady Lillian. He was at his wits end with all the nonstop drama, he just wanted to rebuild Erebor without constant criticism and he wanted to bash in the head of the next person he heard whispering about Lian. He knew that a great deal of people strongly disagreed with his choice of betrothal and would much prefer he marry a lady from one of the Clans.

Thorin knew it wasn't Lian's fault for the large amount of dislike shown towards her and he was proud that she had stood up for Rowan; just the thought of anyone harming the child made his own blood boil. In short there was no way in pleasing the people with regards of his wife-to-be so he was simply going to ignore them and marry her anyways.

The dwarf was now on his way to see Lian's kin; completely ignorant to the current tension between Lian and her kin since no one had bothered to tell him of such. He wanted to check in with her to see if she and Rowan were fine and assuming they were with the group as usual. Dwalin and three other guards trailed after Thorin as he ventured down the corridors to their chambers and soon enough he was greeted with the doors to such. He gave the wooden door a knock, picking the one he knew to be where the women stayed; he'd arranged as such due to the letter he'd received from King Lvaire of the added guests that would be joining Lian.

The door opened moments after he'd knocked, revealing a rather worn looking middle-aged woman with silver streaked brown hair pulled back in a tight bun. Thorin knew the woman vaguely; she was often seen scolding Lian and he couldn't remember if she'd ever told him her name. the dwarf opened his mouth to speak but he's not able to get his words out before she attempts to shove him down the corridor.

"You shouldn't be here!" She hissed, eyes darting nervously back at the other door that still remained closed. The guards began to step forward to put distance between the woman and their king but Thorin quickly dismissed them with a look before turning back at the panicking woman.

"Why is that?" He rumbled, not particularly pleased that his prescience was unwanted; especially in his own kingdom. The woman simply shook her head as she gave his shoulder a firm push but the dwarf was far stouter and stood his ground easily. "Where is Lian?"

"I don't know! I haven't seen her since lunch but Stevvin said he saw her leave the mountain with Rowan on horse back. Look, if he sees you here he'll no doubt take out his anger on you for what happened with Lian. Please leave before either of you do something you regret." The woman begged quietly, her eyes pleading for him to do as she said but he was far too confused and stubborn to leave without answers. Obviously his guards were slacking in their hourly reports and left out certain details because Thorin hadn't been notified of these matters.

"He didn't go after her?! There can be a number of things out there that could harm her!" Thorin yelled in outrage. Martha looked like she was caught between killing him or dying of a heart attack as her face turned an almost unhealthy shade of red. Suddenly the door opened and a burly man with sandy blonde hair and a thick beard to go with it popped his head out, his green eyes taking in the scene.

"You?! Here to stir up more trouble are you?" Tundain bellowed, a scowl twisting his features as he stepped out into the hall, showing off the full extent of his height and brawn; thick muscles flexing.

"Shut up Tundain!" Villox barked, effectively silencing the outspoken man as she joined him along with their two sons; soon enough the entire group of men where in the hall asides from Nora and her child who chose to watch quietly from the bed.

"Where is Stevvin?" Martha asked frantically.

"Him? He left about thirty minutes ago." Kelik answered, nodding his head in the direction leading back down the hall.

"None of you decided to follow him?!" She all but screeched.

"We were packing-."

"There's no need to get upset-."

"We wouldn't be in this predicament if the lass would have just agreed to come back-."

"He said he was going-."

"Silence!" Thorin roared, not able to handle five different people talking at once and at such a loud volume. They quieted down immediately, looking down at the dwarf king with puzzled expressions on their faces.

"You." Thorin pointed a calloused a finger towards Gordon. "What were you saying?"

"Before Stevvin left he said he was going to find Lian and quote on quote 'drag her back to Forochel whether she liked it or not'." The burly man explained, shifting uncomfortably under the man stares now honed in on him at the moment.

"We have to go after them before they kill each other!" Martha practically hyperventilated at the thought of the encounter between the two bullheaded buffoons.

"That's completely unlikely, Martha and besides he's probably already halfway caught up with her by now so we should just wait for them to return." Gordon reasoned but the woman was beyond sense as she murmured almost manically to herself, brows furrowed deeply.

"If we're going to be waiting then I want answers in great detail, starting now." Thorin growled.

Stevvin rode through the forest, following the hoof prints embedded in the damp forest floor and taking note of the few broken branches on the way. It was easy to trace the woman's path when he asked around, the townsmen obviously still sour about her abrupt and rude way of going through the town. The man easily traced her sloppy trail to the forest where it became a bit more tedious to track her due to the foliage but thankfully the early morning rain aided in his task.

He was still enraged by her utter gull and foolishness; she treated him with such disrespect and superiority, she was just a spoiled brat who thought everything was about her! Stevvin did have half the mind to leave her here but he knew Lvaire would never forgive him, after there was no possible way he knew about this matter between Lian and the dwarf king. He'd been blowing hot air out of his ass when he told her she would lose her title if she turned her back but he didn't think she'd actually have the guts to say she didn't want to be their princess! She truly was a fool if she thinks that she can just stop being a princess; it's something that completely blood related so even if she was banished or exiled she'd still be of blood.

Stevvin knew that she was infatuated with the dwarf king but he simply thought it was some idiotic crush since she'd hardly ever met any other male outside of their kingdom but for her to intend to marry him was an utter joke! He should have seen it was more than a crush at the ball though; he'd seen the way they danced and just the fact that he got her to dance without a scowl on her face should have been a red flag.

The man cursed himself for allowing the matter to reach such a point though; he'd been so caught up in his own matters since they arrived that it was almost embarrassing. He dare say that his relationship with the overbearing chambermaid had grown beyond just their constant bickering. Once she stopped fretting and nagging she was quite fetching and even had a mouth on her if you got her really mad. The man had grown to even enjoy the bright shade of red her face would take when they poked and prodded each other; though he'd never tell anyone that.

Suddenly the trail halted and Stevvin quickly dismounted, his steps silent against the moist leaves as he looked up to see the princess's horse munching on grass on the edge of what looked to be a clearing. The slowly setting sun shone down in the area, bathing the flowers and grass in an amber colored glow as shadows began to creep along the edges of the clearing. There sitting amidst this scenery was Lian, eyes closed and a peaceful expression on her face. One would almost assume she slept if not for the slow and gentle motion of her hand as she stroked the coppery curls of the child lying on her lap, white dress crumpled and stained as she slept.

Stevvin wanted nothing more than to storm over to her and drag her back to Forochel this very second but something stopped him. Lian's expression…it looked happy; truly happy and it reminded of him of the look her mother often wore when she was with Lvaire. Stevvin by no means ever believed in fate; the world was decided by the actions you took and that could change from one thing to another in a split second and cause for a different outcome. But…in that moment he knew that having to see her miserable expression would slowly eat away at him until the day he died and he didn't know if he was quite ready to deal with a burden as heavy as that.

He watched the pair for a few more minutes, contemplating his next move since his mind set has been slightly altered. There was no way he was going to apologize, she had still been acting like a brat despite her reasons; though he did enjoy when she snapped off on Tundain. Bloody idiot needed to be knocked up the head but he was satisfied by the look on his face when she called him an ass.

Finally he made up his mind and walked into the clearing, immediately drawing her attention as her green eyes settled on his grey ones. Her expression instantly turns to one of defiance but he knew better and could see the guilt she was trying to hide within herself. Silly girl was like an open book and she didn't even know it; could he truly leave her in the hands of dwarves? He didn't trust them one bit, they had tendencies to be greedy, selfish and looked down on those that thought to be beneath them. It made his blood boil when he walked down their stone halls and heard nothing but rumors and lies fall from their lips about the woman.

"Do you truly wish to surround yourself with those who speak nothing but ill of you? It is unlikely that they will ever accept you as one of them; much less their queen." Stevvin rasped, a bitter taste filling his mouth at the thought of what they'd do to Lian.

"They live how they chose to but I will not be swayed from what I feel is right in my heart." She answered.

"Your heart's a foolish one." Stevvin snorted bitterly. Lian slowly stood, laying Rowan's head gently on the ground before she went to stand in front of the towering man. She took in his expression and saw no anger in deep lines that adores his face; instead he wore a sullen expression.

"Ya can't always be there to run off the bad guys; I've got to fight my own battles now." She said softly, peaking up at him though her lashes. Stevvin was never one to display many emotions other than anger and maybe a smug smile here and there; this often made if awkward to express your own emotions around the brooding man.

"And if you can't?" Stevvin growled out, face twisting into a scowl.

"We'll have to see when we get there." She responded dryly.

They stood there for a minute or two, staring into what seemed to be each others souls until the burly man broke eye contact by turning around. "Come; the others are probably worried."

Lian quickly gathered Rowan's sleeping form and mounted Berdan who had been standing on the edge of the clearing in the shadows; before they left though she gathered a handful of flowers and shoved into her saddle bag. Stevvin rolled his eyes before he started off in a fast gallop, leaving Lian a good yard or two behind before she started after him.

"Does this mean you're okay with me staying?" She called out, drawing closer to the rear of his horse. He didn't answer her but she had a pretty good feeling that he wasn't going to admit anything until he was ready to.

The sun was already beginning to slip behind the tree line as they crossed the plains before the mountain; no doubt dinner was about to be served in the Dining Hall any minute. Rowan was now awake, looking around as they rode on; pretty blue eyes sparkling in the afternoon light like gems. The main gates to the dwarven kingdom could now clearly be seen and the pair sped up; anxious to return before nightfall. Getting locked out would be most unfortunate for them.

Finally their horse's hooves met marble, echoing throughout the Entry Hall loudly before they halted; dismounting quickly and just in time for the gates to start to close behind them. Already the torches were lit; dancing off the polished marble playfully as the sound of crackling flames echoed throughout. No one roamed the stairs or corridors, most likely already in the Dining Hall for the evening meal and the thought of food made Lian's belly grumble in hunger. They led their horses to the stables before returning to the Entry Hall and make their way up the grand stairs; their footsteps echoing off the grand stone walls and high ceilings.

Suddenly the Dining Hall's grand doors opened, halting the two at the top of the stairs as they turned to see who it was. Lian felt her heart skip a beat when Thorin walked out, striding towards the pair on his own which was odd since usually a guard was tailing him or at least Dwalin. He strode with purpose and soon enough was right in front of them though there was something a bit funny about his expression; he looked determined but also amused for some unknown reason.

"I'm assuming all went well?" He said, wrapping an arm around her waist before pressing a light kiss to her forehead; she felt her cheeks warm up a bit, eyes darting nervously towards Stevvin but he stayed silent.

"I know you don't trust me or any of the dwarves but I can promise you that as long as I live I'll do everything I can to keep Lian safe. If I should not fulfill this then you may have my head for it." Thorin spoke, his voice growing low as he locked eyes with Stevvin.

"I don't need your blessings to do as I please." Stevvin finally spoke, his voice gravelly and in that moment they seemed to share an unspoken agreement before they broke eye contact. Lian was a bit disturbed by the subject of the conversation but Thorin simply gave her waist a gently squeeze before he led her towards the Dining Hall. Rowan hobbled along as well until Lian paused to pick her up; chuckling at the sleepy look she still adored.

"What's going on?" Lian asked, still skeptical as to why he wore such an odd expression on his handsome face but he simply chuckled before pushing the Dining Hall Door open. The hall was filled completely; chatter buzzing all around but oddly enough their plates remained empty as if they were waiting. All eyes glued to the woman and dwarf as they entered, the chatter turning into a low hum as they whispered amongst themselves.

Her heart sped up a bit and her palms grew clammy as they walked down the hall, their footsteps echoing throughout. She saw Martha and her kin in their usual spot and once there slowed but a small tug from Thorin drew her attention. He gave her a small shake of the head and she swallowed when he nodded towards the table he usually sat at the front of the hall.

She let Rowan down and Martha was quick to take the child as Lian and Thorin continued on; Lian's stomach was in knots as she felt eye single pair of eyes burn holes into her. They finally reached the front of the room and she expected for them to simply take a seat at the table but he spun them around so they could face the entirety of the hall instead.

"Greetings all; I apologize for the delay of the meal but it was of the utmost importance that I had my wife-to-be here for this occasion. Now I understand that many of you appose my choice for the future Queen of Erebor and would much rather I marry a lady from one of the Clans." He spoke, his voice resounding loud and clear through out the hall and Lian shifted slightly beside him as hundreds of eyes bore into her very soul.

"You have no need to be nervous; hold your head up with dignity and do not quake before them." Thorin suddenly whispered in her ear, his words barely above a whisper as he gave her waist another squeeze before turning back towards the hall.

"As your king I find it most fitting to give a response to what my people have to say." A certain spark now danced in his pale blue orbs as he opened his mouth to give them their much anticipated response; never breaking his usual stern expression "I don't give a damn."

Loud gasps emerged throughout the hall; there were even yells of outrage and then even laughter at their king's words. The hall was growing in volume to the point where Lian's ears were almost numb but this was quickly halted by a loud roar from Thorin.

"If any of you think that you have a say in who I take as my wife then you should pack your bags and return to where you came!" He yelled, his temper peaking through as he bared his teeth. "Anyone who objects to my decision can either silence themselves or leave; you will treat her with the same respect as me."

Silence is what echoed throughout the halls and Lian could spot Bofur and a few of the other dwarves she'd traveled with biting their lip in laughter. Thorin scanned the hall for any nay sayers but none arose so he once again led her along until they were seated behind the table and with that their meal began. Half of their table was practically buzzing with laughter and chatter; the other half being the Clan Leaders who happened to be sour about the dwarf kings speech.

"That was some speech there, cousin." Dain laughed loudly, bringing his large hand down on the table in his merriment.

"Weren't they the most dashing couple, brother?" Fili hooted, taking a swig of the rich mead with a plump chicken leg in his other hand.

"I dare so almost as much as Tauriel and I." Kili wiggled his eyebrows at the said she-elf who simply rolled her eyes as she sipped her drink.

"I must say it is a pleasure to finally meet Thorin's beloved under more appropriate circumstances." Lord Hunin spoke, his voice wispy as he offered the woman a nod of acknowledgement. Lian was a bit confused as she nodded back; not remembering meeting the old dwarf and she'd surely remember one as old as him. Fine wispy white hair adored his head and wrinkled face; his skin looking so paper thin as he gave her a toothless smile.

"Lord Hunin was present when you found me after the mines attack." Thorin explained, clearly seeing her confusion which now melted into realization and embarrassment.

"I'm sorry ya had to see that." She apologized; she had been in such a panic that she couldn't remember half the faces that were present upon the occasion.

"My dear I find that to be a rather ridiculous thing to apologize for." He laughed, sounding like his throat was full of cobwebs which you never now; he looked like he could be her grandfathers' grandfather. None the less he seemed to be a gentle soul and she couldn't help but give him a cheeky lopsided grin.

Stevvin watched the princess from the table, taking a slow sip of his drink as he took in ever movement made and read their lips. He heard Lian let out a laugh at something Dain said, her face lighting up like the sun. The dwarf King was also watching her, the corners of his eyes crinkling as he hid a smile behind his goblet.

The burly man let out a deep sigh through his nose, turning back to his meal so he could eat. Though it pained him to admit, his time as Lian's guardian was over and she didn't need him anymore. She'd been like a close niece to him over the years and he was sure he'd turned out to be a better Uncle figure than the one she had. Tundain's loud laughter chimed in that moment and Stevvin shook him head; some people never learn.

Though it was the end of this chapter of his life there was more to be written down and his grey eyes trailed over to Martha as she fed Rowan; making ridiculous cooing noises during the process.

"What?" Martha asked, peering up at the burly man when she caught him staring at her though the man simply shook his head with a deep rumble of his chest before taking another swig of his drink. Though the rim of his mug hid a small smirk before he took a drink; yes…maybe his old bones still had a few more years left on them for a few more chapters.

Thorin pressed his lips to Lian's forehead, drawing her attention and she curiously peered over at him. "What is it?" She asked but he simply chuckled, taking her much smaller hand in his.

"Really what is it?" She asked, pursing her lips as he chuckled.

"I'm simply thinking of how different things are from just a mere year ago." He rumbled, running his calloused thumb over her knuckles.

"It is a bit funny when you think of how our relationship started out." She mused, remembering how bitter Thorin had been upon her arrival but also how sad he was on the inside.

"I have a feeling that we have only just begun to delve into the depths of each others souls." Thorin murmured and Lian placing a hand to his cheek before leaning in.

"Then may we be given enough years to do so." And with that she pressed her lips tenderly to his, the dwarf responding immediately as he delved his fingers into her hair and pulled her as close as the chairs they sat in allowed. This truly was the beginning to a wonderful tale.