Authors Note: I got my paper done YAAYYY. So I get to post this a little bit earlier. You had Fili's chapters, so here is Kili's.
Welcome back Docnikki! Glad things have calmed down a bit. I am no practitioner, but I am a medical admin so I can understand crazy days in the medical world. Not on your level though. And Fili is definitely the GOAT in every way! I am so glad Syeern suggested that dungeon scene, because it was fun to write.
I liked what you said Syeern about what Fili is going through is the making of a hero and a king…because it absolutely is. I know he can be a bit immature at times, but Fili is still young and I like to think his immaturity stems from having an upbringing filled with tolerance and love. It is the difference of being raised under Thror's reign as Thorin was, and being raised by a mother who has lost everything, her father, her grandfather, and her husband…and result raised both Kili and Fili in a way where they were more free with their feelings. You know she showered them with her love, because they and Thorin were all she had. The result, two sons who though responsible, still had the ability to be childish because they were not pressured to grow up too young. If that makes sense. And I am so glad I am not the only one with irrational fears of the toilet and sewage system.
As for the creatures…keep up guessing! See you at the end :D
Chapter Twelve
"He needs to go to Erebor." Kili heard his uncle say to the elven healer. "Is he stable?"
The healer whom Kili could not name, nodded as he checked the bandages on Vin's limb. "I would say, he can make a days travel to the mountain without further causing harm to himself. He is out of deaths grip now, but will need time to heal and adjust. Perhaps, his home would be the best place for that."
Kili ran a hand through his hair, looking to his uncle who was standing beside the bed Vin lay in. The blonde dwarf was awake, and rolling his eyes. "I don't need to be coddled, I can travel just fine. And stop speaking about me as if I ain't here or awake." This had Kili chuckling, if only briefly.
Most of the young prince's mind, was on the welfare of his wife…who seemed to be up to something. Oh, she was fine, of that he knew at least. At the moment, he could tell she was not really all that far from him…just a dozen miles or so away, and she was currently bored, sending Kili waves of emotions meant to challenge him to figure out what she was thinking about. It was a game they liked to play when they were both occupied in different parts of Erebor; she would send him feelings he would have to translate into words, and then he would do the same in return.
At first, wherever they were, they would each write down what they thought the other was trying to communicate. Tauriel was far better at getting it correct in the beginning than he was…probably because Kili's emotions were almost a picture of his thoughts; she had an unfair advantage. They would spend the evening laughing over his answers, and sometimes, even over hers. But as the years turned to decades, they found they were nearly always spot on every time now. It was no longer necessary to compare notes, because they just knew what the other was thinking now. He wished, they could communicate fully in thought, through words and sentences that is, but this was better than nothing.
"Kili, a hand please?" Kili nodded, mentally translating the icy feeling his wife sent along with some content waves to mean she was cold, but he need not be concerned. Not concerned? Kili quickly sent her the mental equivalent of an eye-roll, which he received some amusement back for. He then moved to help Vin up.
Vin just used his good hand to push them away. "I said, stop molly coddling me, I will have enough of that from my wife, thank you. Besides, it's my hand, not my legs." He grunted and stood. "And I can find my way home on my own. I know where you want to be, Kili, and I won't be holdin' you back from Tauriel or Fili." Vin then looked to Thorin. "I think of Fili as my son too, Thorin. I love him, just as you and Kili do, and Tauriel as well. I want them home safe and they need you lookin' for them, not babysitting me home."
"You aren't holdin' anyone back. If anythin' yer doin' us all a favor." Bofur said, putting his pipe out. "Keepin' the laddie from running headlong into his own demise before he thinks o' the repercussions o' his actions. We need a plan, no' a suicide mission."
Kili scowled. "Don't make me kill you Bofur."
Bofur chuckled. "Yeh don' have it in ya lad."
"Alright, enough. Let's move. Bofur, go see if you can get us a wagon to take Bildak home, one we can hook a few horses or a pony too." Thorin ordered, the hatted dwarf nodding and leaving just as Legolas stepped into the healing halls with Naurfaer who kept looking at Kili as if he was expecting something.
Kili sighed. "She's fine, Naurfaer. Just cold, and bored." Naurfaer nodded, opting to say nothing as Legolas spoke.
"My father is waiting at the gate. Are you ready to go Master Vin?"
"Ready as ever to face the fire." Vin grunted, half from pain, and half from knowing just how his wife will react when she saw him.
Thorin almost protested, seeing the agony in Vin's expression just by getting up, but he knew if it were him, he would despise anyone telling him what he could, and could not do. So if Vin said he could go to Erebor, Thorin will trust his judgment.
Thorin did look to Kili, and leaned into his nephew. "I will trust that if Tauriel seems alright and level headed, Fili must be alright as well. But tell me the moment anything changes, Kili."
Thorin patted Kili's bearded cheek as his nephew nodded. He was honestly deeply proud of him, and how much he has grown and matured over time. The Kili who left Ered Luin, would not be this level headed, he would not be sitting in this room helping another. No. He would be bursting through doors and running headlong into the inferno; he would have killed himself just to try and get to Tauriel and Fili.
Being a father and a husband, does change you though, and Kili has more than just Tauriel relying on him. He had five children who needed him alive, who needed him to come home. Then there was also the fact that even IF Kili wanted to go on a suicide mission to save his wife…it would only mean her death as well as his own. His children, would lose both their mother and their father.
So Thorin is more than sure Kili weighed the risks, and knew his personal choices had consequences of the gravest degree if he chose without thinking them through. Thorin is also sure, that Tauriel was keeping Kili calm, and he for one, appreciated her even more for that. Their connection was a great blessing in many ways, and would help them all get through this...hopefully alive.
"Uncle, are you coming?" Thorin nodded curtly, and followed his nephew and the elven prince out of the room. Just behind him, he heard Vin complaining as the healers insisted on aiding him to the horses. He also heard a few other healers begin pushing the cart that held Bildak's body. This, has truly been a terrible day. Two lost, and two missing. Though it is nothing to how many have been taken from Mirkwood…it is still a blow to Erebor and Thorin's heart. They died, protecting him and his family. They will have great honors bestowed upon their names, and Bildak will lie in a tomb worthy of his sacrifice.
They indeed met Thranduil at the gate, who walked up to them as they approached. "Who is remaining here, and who is going?"
Bofur lifted his hand from where he stood beside the cart he secured, which was currently being fastened to both his pony, and the horse Naurfaer road to get here. Naurfaer would just be taking Galaddal back to Erebor while Bofur volunteered to steer the horse drawn cart. "Tha' would be me an tha' elf are goin'." The hatted dwarf nodded his head to Naurfaer who rolled his eyes. "An' I think everyone else be stayin' teh make a plan."
"I will go with them." Legolas was already accepting his horse from the guard, though Thranduil was not pleased with the idea. They may have one of the creatures in Mirkwood, but thus far, it remains silent in a cell still suffering from its battle wounds. Even the threat of death does not cause the creature to stir.
To Thorin and Kili's great surprise, Thranduil had offered the creature aid, offering it a chance to get care from one of their healers...but the creature glared at the elven king, and Thranduil was not going to force his healers on a being at least PARTIALLY responsible for the loss of many in his realm. Thranduil put the blunt of the responsibility on the Nazgûl since they are the ones giving the orders…these creatures, according the the elven king, are likely only doing as they are commanded. Until he knows otherwise…he said he will treat it as he treats any prisoner in his realm.
It is likely the being will die from its wounds as severe as they are anyway, going by the amount of blood seeping from the creatures dark leathers...which meant they had lost Tauriel and prince Fili earning no retribution through inside information in return. Though they did have the compound for the smoke, and Marawen was making good work on figuring out what it was. She believes, after doing some quick research, she knows something they could take to combat it, giving their people an edge in the battle.
Still, the creatures lack of speaking and refusal to be tended to, made Thranduil furious, so much so, he swept from the cells and has yet to return. He knew Thorin had gone down with his direct permission to question the creature, but neither he nor his nephew got anywhere either...and Thranduil doubts they ever will. The failure is costing them information on where Tauriel could be. He knew he had lost her a long time ago and much of that is his own fault, but now, he is at risk of losing his son as well. His son, who once again, is planning on leaving the safety of their walls to follow her.
"Legolas…"
"Ada, Tauriel risked her life to find out what was happening to a people who she spent most of her life with, despite them treating her as if she never truly belonged." Legolas glanced at Kili and Thorin, both clenching their jaws but remaining silent, so the elven prince continued. "We owe it to her to have the same courage and loyalty. How long are we safe in these walls? How long until the enemy decides to come to us? We cannot hide here forever. We have to show them we are not afraid of them. I know you love this people, and I know everything you do is to keep us safe…but soon there will be no safe harbor in middle earth. If we do nothing, we are only adding to the darkness."
Legolas looked up at his father. "Let us be the light, ada, in the darkness that is coming. We can make a difference. I want, to make a difference."
There was a silent pause where the elven king just stared at his son. Nobody knew what he would decide until finally, he nodded. "Go." Thranduil said softly. "Send word when you get to the mountain, then return as swiftly as possible."
Legolas nodded and jumped onto his horse, waiting for the healers to help Vin up onto Galaddal, before Naurfaer hopped up behind him. Bofur was the last to pull himself up onto the cart he would guide back. Thorin, Dwalin, and Kili would remain behind with Gandalf as they began plans to get to Tauriel and Fili while they waited for Naurfaer and Legolas to return. Bofur would be staying at the mountain to give Dis and Nyaunni a more in-depth report on the situation, as well as inform Aeodhen what was happening so he could prepare the guard and begin making plans for Erebor.
As soon as the door opened enough for the horses and cart to get through, the group disappeared into the day-lit forest. Kili watched them go, then turned to follow the elven king and his uncle back to the council room to make plans for his departure.
The group to leave was to be small. Smaller than the company to Erebor. "Fewer travel hastier." Thranduil agreed with Gandalf who knew more about travel than anyone in the group. "Do you know the area you are going?" He looked to Kili and Thorin, but only Thorin nodded.
"Kaw said Rhun." Thorin hummed.
The raven has only returned once since Kili sent him to seek Fili and Tauriel out. The message was short and quick directly from Tauriel. She was alright, Fili was safe, and they were going to Rhun. No true coordinates or anything, but with Kili essentially being able to mentally track her, they would make do.
"And who of you will be going, and who will be remaining here in Mirkwood." Thranduil asked, pulling a map of the desert land.
"Kili will be going." Thorin said earning him a look of shock from his nephew who turned to him and placed a hand on his shoulder. "It is time I let you put everything I taught you to practice, Kili. I am needed here. You can find them, and faster than anyone here. This is your mission, my son."
"Uncle." Kili said in awe, then nodded and turned back to the elven king. "I will be going, and I am sure Naurfaer will be coming with." Kili declared, sitting up proudly. "As soon as I get Tauriel's heading, we will send Umyra with direct coordinates." He nodded to the white raven who puffed her feathers as she stared at them from where she was perched on a decorative branch above them.
"And YOU wish to stay in Mirkwood?" Thranduil asked Thorin, a bit surprised he would volunteer to remain in the elven city and would not be heading the mission to get Tauriel and his eldest nephew back.
"No. I am going to Dale to speak with Bard and inform him of the situation, then I am meeting my head captain to put a plan together to handle Dol Guldur should they attack again." Thorin narrowed his eyes. "I won't have those creatures near my mountain or running free in our lands. If they are taking elves, my grandchildren may be at risk and both Fili and Tauriel would want me there, to help protect the children."
"IF they are taking elves?" Thranduil lifted a brow. "I do believe we are rather past the IF to that statement. I also believe, your grandchildren are safe as they seem to barely have many, if any traits associated with the elven race in them to begin with. Mithrandir…where are you to go?"
Gandalf stirred from where he sat, puffing at his pipe and lost in thought. "Hmm?" He asked looking taken aback at being addressed. "Oh. Yes. Well. I find it to be wise of Thorin to inform Bard of the situation. I will travel with young Kili for a small time. I gave my word to the lady Lothlorien that I would bring her news of what I have found expediently. They too, have had many in their numbers go missing, as you well know, she also has some information for us as well so it is wise we go to Lothlorien before we travel anywhere else."
Thranduil nodded, fully aware of the elves bordering Lothlorien disappearing. Galadriel's kingdom is not far from Mirkwood, and Dol Guldur, lies between the two elven realms.
"Why don' we jus' go pay a visit to this, fortress then?" Dwalin grunted as he leaned against his large axe. "It is on the way, so we can put a team together an' storm the place…get it good an' cleaned out."
Gandalf's expression darkened. "I am afraid, mister Dwalin, that that plan would only mean death. Keeping the attackers at bay is one thing master dwarf, but if I am correct…which I do believe I am…that fortress has a master. Sauron would have no doubt sent one of his best to keep it. One of high ranks, I am certain of it."
"Does this creature have a name that you know of?" Thorin leaned forward against the tall table.
The wizard took a draw of his pipe as he considered the question. "I doubt it would be the witch king of Angmar. He is the chief of the Nazgûl and likely remains studiously at Sauron's side. No. The second in command would no doubt be overseeing the fortress, as Dol Guldur lies in a strategic location in these lands. His name would be Khamul. He is not to be trifled with, and if I were to advise anything, it would be to stay off his path."
"I say, we take 'is head." Dwalin huffed, not happy that they weren't just going to resolve the problem with a bit of extermination.
"His head?" Gandalf stood, looking down at Dwalin. "Many have tried. He was once a man, you know. A mere mortal not unlike those who dwell in the city of Dale half a days ride away. He led a people in Rhun for many years; an Easterling king with a dark past and even darker present. He may have left his old names behind lost to the ages and scripts, but as a Nazgûl, he has many names, one in particular being the Shadow of the East."
"The shadow of the east? A mortal man? Then how is he difficult to kill?" Kili asked, confused as to why they cannot just do as Dwalin suggested. Not him, per say, he had a wife to locate and a brother to get to. But Dol Guldur can't be all that large; Erebor's army surely can overtake it with ease…even more so if Thranduil's forces were to join their ranks and possibly Bard's as well.
"Oh, Kili." Gandalf sighed, shaking his head. "I do wish it were so easy as you say. Khamel WAS a mortal man…until he was corrupted by a ring of power and turned into the creature of shadows he is now."
Kili's eyes widened and his hand went to the finger that once held a ring of power for a time, perhaps one of the same rings which corrupted the hearts of those kings turned Nazgûl. He felt the panic fill him as the memories of mental and physical torture replayed in his mind. At least, those dark feelings began to fill him, until a force encircled his mind like a powerful, warm, embrace, bright and more familiar than even his own mind. The panic was calmed by gentle, soothing, feelings directly from his wife who reacted almost immediately to his pain. It was followed by feelings of deep worry and an inquiry which Kili was not sure how to respond to at first, until his mind fully calmed, and he communicated as best he could to her that he was fine.
Even after he got his feelings under control, Tauriel continued to send him soothing, comforting, waves, and Kili let his heart-rate calm. It all happened within a few moments, so fortunately none of the others noticed Kili's slip. At least, he thought nobody noticed; Thorin was giving him an odd, worried filled glance, but Gandalf seemed none the wiser as he continued. "These creatures cannot be killed, the Nazgûl, not without special weapons we do not have. I am afraid, at present time, they are here to remain whether we wish them to or not. I will not doubt that your realms will be visited by Khamul or one who serves under him sooner than you may think." Gandalf looked between Thorin and Thranduil. "Sauron, will be looking to ally himself with any kind of power willing to join him, and Erebor, Dale, and Mirkwood's unique alliance would certainly be a curious draw for him."
Kili sputtered as Thorin's eyes darkened. Though Thranduil seemed to have expected this and nodded. "The eldar and the Nazgûl do not have a good past, Mithrandir. He will find no allies to them or their master among our people."
"Nor mine." Thorin growled, eyeing Thranduil as if he had assumed they would have a different answer.
"Indeed not." Gandalf nodded. "I dare say Bard would no doubt answer likewise. But I warn you...there is temptation to follow their way. If they come, they will not do so without promises and gifts. He knows how to persuade, and be it weapons, land, or great treasure...they will find what you want and make it yours."
Kili's entire form stiffened. "Are you insinuating that we are such weak mortals, that we cannot see when we are being played a fool?" Considering Thorin said nothing to calm Kili, he must have felt the same which could be seen in how he folded his arms and looked at Gandalf expectantly.
"Ohh." Gandalf sighed. "Of course not Kili. Forgive the forwardness in how I said that, as I rather believe you to be a headstrong people capable of much good in Middle earth. You are young, you do not understand how the enemy can play on our fears, our wants, and our needs. They may even go so far as to create a need. Blackmail, and ransom is not out of their arsenal."
Again, Kili stiffened as Gandalf looked right at him. "Some, have things so precious to them, they would do anything...good or evil...to ensure the safety of that which they deem unlivable without."
Kili's eyes widened. "My children?"
"Or Thranduil's, or Bards, or even you, Kili." Gandalf gave him a soft, knowing look.
"Me?" Kili asked surprised, and Gandalf nodded.
"Are you not, the son of Dis? Do you think your family would not move mountains to get you back?" The wizard waited as Kili nodded slowly, knowing they have in fact already done so to find him once before, never giving up on him despite it being almost a year that he was gone.
Thorin placed a hand on Kili's shoulder. "There is not much your mother and I wouldn't do to ensure you are safe, Kili, you, your brother, Tauriel, the children...even Viltarra. We are a family. It is why we work so hard to keep all of you protected. We are nothing without you; we have no legacy, without you."
"I am afraid, that the enemy, could at this very moment, be making plans to use Tauriel and Fili to their advantage if they realize who they are." Gandalf sat once again, tapping his pipe on the table.
Thorin smiled, though his eyes were dark. "I said there isn't MUCH we won't do, Gandalf. But one thing I can guarantee, is Erebor will never side with such foul creatures. And if Erebor doesn't, then the dwarven people as a whole will not. We will get Tauriel and Fili back, but it won't be through choosing to ally with the Nazgûl, or their master."
"You are a good king, Thorin." Gandalf hummed in deep respect. "And a good father." He added looking at Kili who was watching his uncle with the look of a proud son.
"I only endeavor to do what is right by my family, and my people Gandalf. Nothing more. About Tauriel and Fili..."
"I don't think they have Fili." Kili added with a small smile. "Kaw's last message was that Tauriel was alone in Dol Guldur. But Fili was en route to Rhun. That is all. My brother loves Tauriel, he likely somehow got loose but is refusing to leave her alone. And though I can't say what the enemy is planning, I can say that my wife seems to have a plan of her own...and if I were a betting dwarf, I would bet it is to find a way to save those she cared about who were taken from Mirkwood...and likely a few more if she can."
Kili gave Thorin a knowing look as the dwarven king nodded after sighing deeply. "Ivethin."
Kili nodded. "And Nelithi. I think there are others, but those two she was in regular contact with. My wife, Gandalf, has a big heart, and she does so enjoy to try and sacrifice herself for the good of others. I think, growing up being constantly told and reminded that you were unworthy and less than others...stained her mind...as it is very rare, if ever, that Tauriel puts herself first."
"Because she REFUSES to put herself first." Thorin growled, Dwalin nodding in agreement. "But I assure you, every day we endeavor to erase such a cruel teaching." He gave Thranduil a piercing look filled with accusation which the elven king met with a simple bow of his head.
"I cannot undue the past." Thranduil hummed. "And I will not agree that I am fully at fault for what she endured here. Tauriel was very fortunate, and had both her freedom to do as she pleased in our forest, as well as all she required to live comfortably. She never lacked for food, education, or opportunity to better herself."
"No." Thorin said right back. "But are not love and family equally as necessary as food and instruction? Is it not important that our young receive compassion and comfort along with correction when they do something wrong? I may not be an exemplary father, Thranduil, but I do know that these things are crucial in the development of our young's minds and their growth."
"I really do not think this is the place for this." Kili stepped in, seeing his uncle become agitated and protective. "My wife, has many things she can thank you for, Thranduil, believe me I hear it from her all the time." He folded his arms. "But I am very happy to see how she has blossomed among a people who remind her that she is valued and accepted for who she is, inside and out."
Thranduil's cheeks went a bit pink, and his lips thinned into a tight line. It looked as if he had a thing or two to say to the royal dwarves in his council room, but then, a deep breath left him and he eyed the table for several minutes before speaking softly. "I cannot argue with you, for these words have been said to me by my own son in regards to Tauriel. We have our way of raising our young, and I see you have yours."
Thranduil looked to Kili. "I know you, as a father, can understand that we will do both right, and wrong by our children whether we do so on purpose, or by no intentional fault of our own. When we get her back, I shall, with your approval, try to amend my errors when it comes to Tauriel...as much as she allows. I can see how much you love her, all of you. Please know, I am, happy, to know she is doing so well with you."
Kili extended his hand to the elven king. "If I have learned anything in my lifetime, it is how short life can be. Grudges do nobody any good." Thranduil nodded and clasped the prince's hand. "But, Tauriel's choices are her own. I will tell her you wish to speak to her, but whether or not she does, is completely her decision alone."
Thranduil smiled softly, nodding his head again in understanding. The group fell into silence before they began making solid plans for the three traveling to Rhun, for what they would do should they be approached by the Nazgûl, and for how their kingdoms will handle the creatures, such as the one in the dungeon, who were taking the elves likely under the command of the forces in Dol Guldur.
There was also some debate as to what the creatures could be themselves, and since the healers have yet to be allowed near it…they still have no answers as to its species…if it even has one.
"Well. They are certainly no Nazgul." Gandalf hummed in thought, taking a sip of the green tea brought in for lunch. "I have never seen the like of these creatures before, Thranduil, in all my travels. If you were to ask me, I would describe them as a being not unlike the eldar. In fact, they seem to have some traits I might consider to be part of the Avari. At least, a small part. Though they do have rather orc-like coloring as well as a few other, confusing, features I cannot place. Their violet eyes specifically."
"The Avari?" Thranduil asked more intrigued than surprised. It had been centuries since that name has been spoken in his presence, and even more since he has come across one of the Avari themselves. But now that it has been mentioned...he can understand why the creature seemed so...familiar. If only in mannerism. The Avari were a very secretive lot, and keep to themselves.
"What is an avari?" Kili put the bread he had been picking at back on the plate. He was having difficulty stomaching anything despite knowing he should eat as much as he can while he can. Once he leaves Mirkwood he will no longer have easy access to food and will instead be forced to rely on what middle earth offers him on the road. But he just, didn't have the appetite for it now.
"Who. Kili." Thorin corrected sitting back in his seat. "They are elves. Specifically, elves in Rhun."
Gandalf looked at Thorin impressed. "You know of the Avari?"
Thorin shrugged. "Know of, yes, interacted with, only briefly. Several of our clans have mountains and mines in Rhun, as you well know Gandalf." The wizard nodded but remained silent as Thorin continued. "In my travels, I have come across the Avari a few times distantly...and was attacked once by some guards after I unknowingly entered a sacred meadow of theirs."
"I am surprised they let you live." Thranduil lifted a brow at the now scowling dwarven king. "You must forgive my tone, as I did not intend that to come out as an insult." He waited for Thorin to nod before continuing. "What I meant was, they would have attacked any people crossing their borders, even those of the eldar. I have heard tell of clans with bloodlines of the Noldor and even Sindar traveling eastward, being ruthlessly attacked by the Avari; people, who are of the same race as them."
"The same race, aye, bu' they are leagues different than yer lot." Dwalin grunted, crumbs from his meat bun falling from his lips. "There be a reason why it is well advised, to keep clear of the pointy eared folk in the east. They are more likely teh filet yeh first, then ask questions later...if they even ask questions at all."
"An this information comes from experience Mister Dwalin? I had no idea you were so well informed on the elven kind." Gandalf asked with only mild intrigue.
Dwalin glared at the wizard. "I traveled quite a bit in Rhun, old man. I won' be insulted by you nor anyone in this room."
"I think we need more wine." Thranduil drawled before anyone could respond. He ordered the guard to bring in several barrels. "To keep the peace." He muttered when Gandalf looked at him.
"Of course." The wizard breathed, choosing to take a long draw of his pipe as the room fell into silence.
"As for the Avari…" Thranduil looked thoughtfully at Kili. "…I would advise you to remain clear of their borders. I will see that you receive a map with their known lands...but if they have expanded it will be little help to you. Be aware of your surroundings, is all I can offer in advice...and it would be best to run if you see those of the elven race coming your way once you reach Rhun. They will not treat you kindly."
The elven king wrote a note and handed it to Kili. "This will ensure you will be given all that you need. Now, this captive of ours..." He stood and paced the room. "...perhaps, if it won't speak...we can at least get to the bottom of what it is. Mithrandir, could it be possible that forces of Sauron could be meddling with creating a new species?"
Gandalf's eyes narrowed as he puffed away at his pipe. "I cannot answer that without adequate research, but if I am right, the lady Galadriel is thinking the same thing. So I suppose...yes. Sauron was once a great sorcerer. The master he once served, Morgoth, was the father of the orcs we know, so it is likely that Sauron returning to power has him building an army of beings he is fashioning himself very much like his former master."
"Or, simply corrupting them. Like the fellbeasts." Kili whispered to his uncle. Thorin's eyes darted to Kili, but he nodded subtly.
"What was that?" Thranduil asked.
"The fellbeasts...those creatures we fought in the pit two decades ago." Kili reiterated. "The creatures who we believe came from an ancient race you mentioned." He looked to Thranduil who nodded in remembrance.
"The aelug." Thranduil said accepting the wine finally brought in as requested. He poured himself a glass and watched as Dwalin too filled his mug and drank almost greedily. Dwarves. Turning back to the two dwarves Thranduil does have respect for, he began to ask curiously. "Are they still in your care?"
Thorin gave him a suspicious look. "Why do you ask?"
"Can they not fly?" Thranduil added. "I am rather surprised you would not use them as an advantage to cross the lands much faster.
Thorin sat back in his chair and sighed. "The feathered beasts belong to my wife, and are in her soul care. They can fly, yes, but for many reasons both she and I advise against their use."
"I find that to be a rather smart move, Thorin." Gandalf nodded impressed. "It is one thing to go by boat or horse, drawing much less suspicion...whereas a large, feathered, creature soaring through the air will simply paint a target on your backs in these lands."
"And I suppose many would mistake them for something far more nefarious no doubt." Thranduil added in understanding. "Like a dragon. They look far more like the scaled beasts than they do a bird."
"If I thought they would be of help..." Thorin said sipping his wine goblet. "...I know Nyaunni would have them out even now. But as it is, they are still young to their species according to my wife, and still in training. We cannot predict how they would react in the wilds. No. I will not put my daughters or my nephews fate in the hand of a creature who is not ready for such a challenge. I don't even know if Umyra will jeopardize Kili or not. Kaw is a gift from the maker, but Umyra is still rather unpredictable at times."
Thorin looked up at the rafters at the white raven who was preening her feathers, though she looked down at him with one of her bright blue eyes almost accusingly.
"I have told you, Umyra is fine uncle." Kili glanced at the raven who flew to his shoulder and began preening his hair. He smiled but let her be. She didn't really like to be pet like Kaw, but she did love the family. Of that, he was certain.
"Fine. The hour continues, yet we have no answers." Thorin grumbled sitting forward. "You will inform us when your healers get answers about our captive?"
Thranduil nodded. "As soon as we can make a safe place for them to look it over, I will have them report to me. But I will not sink so low as to do experiments on that pathetic creature if it chooses to fight the healer. We would be no better than he that created it if I forced my will on it."
"Perhaps...if I may..." Gandalf said standing. "...even the foulest creatures have names. I will, with your permission, go speak to the healers and maybe see if I can get anywhere with it myself. I do have a way with other beings."
Thranduil stared at the wizard, then gave him an affirming nod. "Very well, Mithrandir, friend of halflings and dwarves alike. But do not get too close. May I give you the task of speaking to the healers as well? It is time they at least be given the opportunity to try and reason with it if that is even possible. They will know what to do and how best to proceed."
"Of course." Gandalf bowed his head and stood, leaving the room.
"For the rest of us, we have work to do." Thorin pulled a map forward, standing over it and began pointing out borders to their kingdoms in the east, and what he knew of the Avari in Rhun until Thranduil ordered them to find some rest when he was called to meet with the healers who were having problems with the captive who was being uncooperative and lashed out even at Gandalf.
Kili had every desire to just leave, to get this journey started rather than wait for the two elves to return from Erebor. It would take an entire day and a bit more for Naurfaer and Legolas to make it back to Mirkwood…even if they moved quickly. But Thorin said under no circumstances was Kili to go without at least one person to have his back, and Thorin trusted nobody to do that apart from a member of the family, or a guard. Since the only one available was Dwalin who refused to leave Thorin, Kili was stuck waiting for Naurfaer who was, to Thorin, an acceptable travel companion for his nephew.
As they left the meeting room, Thorin thought it was important to remind Kili that though Fili was in line to be king after him, Kili also had obligations and responsibilities to the throne as well as his children and was just as important to their family as his elder brother.
"I won't go running off into the night, uncle." Kili sighed again as he laid out his hooded tunic and recounted his blades before putting them in his pack along with Tauriel's daggers and bow he recovered from the forest. He was in Tauriel's room opting to rest there once the meeting was dismissed until Naurfaer and Legolas returned; it smelled like her, and was somewhat comforting. He smiled to himself as he pulled out the little stuffed doll his twins had made. He had Naufi's, and Tauriel had Orin's. She kept it in her pocket, so he knew she still had it.
Thorin hummed as he leaned back against the dresser watching his nephew replace the doll back into his bag. "I know you won't Kili. I just wanted to make sure you understood that you're not some sort of, spare, to Fili. We need you to be safe, your children need you safe, Tauriel, needs you safe."
Kili froze, turning to look at his uncle. He contemplated what Thorin had said, then, smiled softly and nodded. "Never, in my life, uncle, have you, mam, or Fili made me feel like I was a spare to anything, let alone the throne. I know I am not."
Thorin cleared the distance and pressed his brow to Kili's. "Good. You will be safe than? Because if you go and decide to be reckless, your mother will have your head."
Kili chuckled and pressed his head to Thorin's, his uncle's way of showing affection to them. As he pulled away, his smile slipped a bit. "Tauriel has mam's runestone, but I hold it in my heart. I have far too much to lose, uncle, to be reckless."
Thorin lifted a brow in disbelief. "We are sons of Durin, Kili. Our definition of reckless is somewhat skewed."
Kili shrugged, neither confirming nor denying the very true statement. It was then, that Kili froze as a deep chill ran from the top of his spine, all the way down his entire being. "Something is wrong." He whispered.
"What do you mean?" Thorin asked, deep concern in his blue eyes. "Tauriel?"
Kili nodded. "She was angry, and afraid. But..." He shook his head trying to decipher each emotion as they came."...she's suddenly calm. I don't understand." His dark eyes were wide and worried as his mind worked to translate the feelings into words. Whatever she was trying to communicate, it felt rushed, and repeated. A pattern. "She doesn't want me to worry about something. I…I can't…" Kili sent waves meant to show he doesn't fully understand.
At this, Tauriel was annoyed, and frantically began to repeat the pattern again, which had Kili rolling his eyes. He got the pattern, he was just working to sort it out.
"Well?" Thorin asked.
Kili, however, was trying to focus on the feelings. Turning emotions into words was not exactly easy, or precise. "I think…they are going to do something and it will affect her, and in a way that I will feel. But, I am not to worry." Kili huffed. "Hah. Not worry? Unlikely."
"Are you sure she is alright, Kili?"
Kili looked to his uncle. "No." He answered truthfully. "But I do know she is alive, and I believe whatever is happening, she feels as if she can handle it."
Sending the confirmation to his wife, he felt her pride leak to him. He hoped he got it right. Before he could send anything more though, Kili felt his entire being nearly crash to the ground, it felt as if half of him had completely shut down.
"KILI!" Thorin grabbed his nephew before he fell to the floor. "Talk to me Kili!"
Kili ignored his uncle, instead he frantically searched for his wife in his mind, worried the worst had happened. It required him to calm down, though, and Kili took a calming breath before trying to find her again. Of course, she was there, right where she should be. The spark in his mind blazed proving she was alive and completely fine.
However, her mind was quiet, muted, which meant only one thing. "She's unconscious." Kili sighed allowing his uncle to help him stand once his system began to accept its life mate was in a heavy sleep and worked to make up for the temporary loss of her consciousness. "I think, that is what she was trying to tell me."
"Are you certain?" Thorin asked, deeply concerned for both his missing nephew, and his elven daughter. He hated this entire situation, and he will be having words with her once Kili brings her home. Mahal. He just KNEW she at some point, consciously made the decision to be taken. It was a very Tauriel thing to do, and by now, Thorin thinks he can honestly say he knew the elf he adopted quite as well as he knew the nephews he had helped raise. "Can you be sure nothing worse has happened?
Kili shook his head. "No. No I can't. But she tried to communicate what was happening which makes me feel as if she expected it."
Thorin sighed, gripping Kili's shoulder tightly. "You will find her."
"I will find them both." Kili promised. "I swear it uncle, I won't let you down."
"Kili." Thorin shook his head. "You are not alone here. We are working together, Kili, and we will see this to its end." He paused leaning back and running his hand through his beard thoughtfully. "Fili knows the clans in Rhun, and your brother is resourceful. I can't send a missive that distance without it possibly being intercepted. The risk of such a thing happening is low, yes, but I will not put Fili's life in danger...not when he will be so close to the enemy."
Thorin looked over Kili's shoulder, lost in thought. How he wished he could accompany his nephew...but the threat of Dol Guldur was keeping him from traveling too far from Erebor. If a siege was going to break out, he was needed to lead the army of Erebor. He was forced to remain close to the mountain. A rescue mission can be handled by Kili and Naurfaer. The fewer on the road, the better. It draws less suspicion. And Naurfaer was right, it was time to show his nephew he trusted him.
"I can do this uncle." Kili said with confidence, echoing his uncle's thoughts. "I know I can find Tauriel, and you're right...Fili is far cleverer than any of us. If anyone can get out of a sticky situation, it is Fili."
"Do you have everything you need, Kili?" Thorin asked as Kili turned from him to continue checking over his bag.
"Everything but my wife, my children, and my brother." Kili sighed, closing the strap to his bag. "I probably should see about getting some more food. I may not be a huge fan of Lembas bread, but, in a pinch it is far better than nothing at all."
Thorin hummed in agreement. "What about supplies for aid?" He lifted a brow at his accident prone nephew.
Kili grumbled, opening his bag and reaching back in, pulling a sizable satchel out. "Don't worry, Oin already made me pack this. Actually, he had sent Borrack to lecture me and Tauriel before we left. That dwarf is fire, Thorin. I would not mess with him; his words burn deeper than Oin's."
At first, Thorin looked confused but nodded. "I always thought Borrack was a rather kind soul. Oin has nothing but good to say about him, and Borrack did a wonderful job handling a skin irritation going through the school this last autumn. He just accepted a place as head healer next to Oin, he and his wife were pretty excited by the opportunity. She is quite the healer herself, Nyaunni says, and exceptional with the animals. We are lucky to have them both."
"We are, and Borrack is usually really level headed whenever I have talked to him...but it is kind of disconcerting just how much like Oin he can be." Kili grumbled as he shoved the kit back into his pack.
Thorin chuckled. "You mean, he knows what he is doing and won't put up with the family stubbornness when it comes to our physical welfare?"
Kili glared at his uncle which had the same effect it had on his mother...that would be no effect at all. "Save that look for someone else, Kili. It will get nowhere with me. Now remember...keep your wits about you on the road. Stay away from inns, they may seem tempting, but we can't trust anyone right now. Making camp would be the best bet. If you can, try and find your brother as soon as possible. I would feel better knowing the two of you were together."
"I know, uncle." Kili said with a smile. "I will be careful. I promise."
"Save the promises for your mother, Kili. I know you will do what you can to return." Thorin said with understanding. He was no fool, he knew the risk he was taking sending his nephew, his son, into a very dangerous situation.
However, if there is ONE thing Thorin is absolutely sure of, it is this…Mahal, Aule, the maker and father of the dwarves, favors Tauriel. Tauriel, loves Kili and Fili. Therefore, if Thorin were to make an assumption, and feel confident about that assumption, it would be that Mahal would be watching over them for Tauriel's sake. Who better to guard those most precious to you, than your maker?
"Naurfaer will likely be here in a few hours. If you have everything you need, you should get some sleep, Kili. I know you don't want to…" Thorin said, interrupting Kili's immediate argument he began sputtering. "…but you will need to be alert and at your best as you get through the forest. Naurfaer doesn't need to sleep like you, Kili. He will go for days, and you have already been awake for more than a day yourself. Sleep, and I will make sure you have the maps you need when you wake."
Kili clenched his jaw, his expression set in pure Durin stubbornness. But then, the words his uncle spoke penetrated his head and he sighed. "I cannot sleep without her." He finally said after a few moments of silence.
"Is she not with you?" Thorin said, lifting a brow. "I know you are not stupid, Kili. Tell me, how does a weakened warrior who has neglected his needs deliberately and knowingly, defeat any but himself?"
"He can't." Kili said firmly. "For he is a fool who fed the enemy by neglecting his fortress." He automatically recited the teaching his uncle drilled into he and Fili from memory.
"And what is his fortress, Kili?"
"Himself." Kili sighed and Thorin hummed.
"I taught you and your brother everything you need to not just survive, but to succeed. Sleep while you can in a place that is safe. Sleep so you can have the strength for what is ahead."
"Uncle?" Kili asked as Thorin turned to the door gripping the piece of paper he took from the dresser Kili had set it on so he wouldn't misplace it. It was the allowance Thranduil had given Kili which would get him into the records halls for maps of Rhun and the known borders of the Avari clans. He would get Kili the maps he required as well as some food for his trip while his nephew got some much needed sleep. Thorin also needed to talk to Dwalin who had gone with some of the elven guards to the archives in Mirkwood to learn all they could about Dol Guldur. Last he heard, Gandalf was going to join them having no success with the captive. Instead, he was turning his focus on seeking his own knowledge of what they could do if Khamul did in fact, attack.
"Yes Kili?" Thorin looked back at his nephew who had in fact moved his pack from the bed…a good sign he may at least try and get some rest.
"Can Erebor take Dol Guldur? Do you really think they will attack? The Nazgul?"
Thorin leaned against the doorframe, his brows furrowed in heavy thought. He then smiled a proud smile. "Is this doubt I hear, dwarf? Doubt for the strongest and most adaptable people in all of middle earth? Doubt for those who already accomplished what others deemed impossible…felling a dragon and retaking Erebor?"
"Bard took the dragon down uncle." Kili rolled his eyes but shifted when Thorin glared at him.
"We gave Bard the OPPORTUNITY to fell the dragon." Thorin corrected then gave his nephew a sly smile before it turned sincere. "We owe much gratitude to Bard for what he did, I should not make light of his accomplishment." He gave Kili a look as if he was surprised he had said that, then shook it off and nodded towards the bed. "Go to sleep Kili. IF there is an attack, Erebor is far from alone in lashing back, but even if we were, our armies can hold their own. I will not allow our people to fail, I need you to believe that. I also need you to focus on your task, and I will handle our lands." Kili nodded. "I will see you in a few hours." Thorin said, leaving the room.
Kili chuckled, hearing his uncle mumbling about becoming soft in his old age as the door shut. Thorin was definitely softer than he had ever been, but you won't hear Kili complain about that.
With really no other choice, the young prince shrugged off his boots and vest then fell right onto the bed...forgoing any of the covers in favor of pressing his head into the pillow that smelled strongly of his Tauriel. He really did not know how he was going to sleep, not without his one beside him. Yet he felt a deep draw to the darkness of the unwaking world, and before he knew it, his heartrate calmed, and his mind cleared.
"Kili?"
"Tauriel!" Kili searched the darkness around him but saw nothing. "TAURIEL! AMRALIME? WHERE ARE YOU?!"
Kili felt himself begin to run, but no matter how far he pushed himself, he did not move. He heard his wife's tinkling laughter ringing in his mind.
"Kili, my heart, calm down meleth nin and focus. Let your mind find me, not your eyes."
Kili stopped and huffed. Then he took a calming breath and closed his eyes, focusing his entire mind on finding his Tauriel, his elf, his one.
Suddenly, he felt a finger brush his cheek, and he smiled as a voice whispered in his ear. "You found me."
Only then, did Kili open his eyes to behold his favorite shade of emerald green. "Tauriel." He breathed, pressing his hand to her cheek.
Before he said another word, everything that has happened rushed into his mind. "What happened? Are you alright? Wait...is this real? Are you here...or am I just...dreaming?"
Tauriel laughed brightly as if she had no care in this world. Maybe, his mind was simply forming the image of his wife to comfort him.
"Of course, this is a dream, meleth nin." Tauriel ran her fingers through his wild hair. "I am thankful you are getting some rest. I was worried you would tear Arda apart to get to me when they put me into a deep sleep."
Kili's eyes widened, then he glared at her. "You..." He pointed a finger accusingly, "...planned this whole thing, didn't you!"
The smirk on his wife's lips gave the answer. Though he was deeply frustrated with her, he continued to allow her to run her fingers through the hair framing his face. It felt...odd; the feeling of her touch, it was almost like an echo of her true physical touch...but he did not hate it so he leaned into her fingers.
"You are angry with me." Tauriel sighed, pulling her hand away.
However, Kili caught her by the wrist and just held it tightly. "Furious, actually. Why didn't you tell me what you were planning? Is this what Mahal told you to do?"
Tauriel lifted a brow. "You speak as if this was premeditated that I get taken. I grant you, I did not fight as I should, but I certainly did not ASK them to take me. I simply...did not stop them from doing so when Aule told me this was the only way. I...I knew something was to happen, a journey of sorts. That is all he told me, I was given no details whatsoever. All he said was I could save them, and it could take me on a journey away from Erebor. I did not know it was also away from you too. She looked down to the ground. "He also promised to keep the children safe, if, they stay inside the mountain. That is all he told me apart from being important I do not tell you…likely because you would refuse to let me go and it would mean our demise one way or another. I only prepared for a journey nothing more." When Kili gave her a disbelieving look, she sighed. "I give you my word, Kili, it was not my full intention to be parted from you."
Kili released her wrist, his expression set in deep despair as he instead pulled her flush against him. "Intention or not, you have left me Tauriel."
"LEFT YOU?!" Tauriel shouted, pulling away and grasping his face tightly. "NEVER! Never Kili! I will NEVER leave you. We are one, Kili, I am with you always even when I cannot be beside you. You are here in my mind, just as I am in yours…we can never be truly parted." She pressed her brow to his. "Don't say that again, please never say that, my Kili." She looked into his eyes, their heads pressed tightly together.
Kili stared into her for several minutes before nodding. "I know, amralime. I'm sorry. I just, I miss you. Is Fili alright?"
Tauriel nodded, then pressed her lips to his for a brief kiss and pulled away. Though she did let her hands slide down his arms to twine her fingers with his. "As far as I know, Fili is fine. He was able to get away just at the entrance of the fortress, but he is not returning to Erebor. Now, I need you to listen, because time runs differently in our minds, and you will wake soon. The information I got, is minimal, but they have about nineteen elves from different clans in these cells. One is with child Kili. With child! How I wish I could remove all of the heads of those responsible for this with my own blades."
"Oh, I have your daggers, amralime." Kili interrupted with a wide grin which Tauriel returned.
"Thank you Kili, they took my twin blades and nearly all of my concealed weapons as well as my boots, they even took the blade Fili was able to smuggle to me so I am afraid I am rather limited with what I have that they did not find. They did allow me to keep two things though…my runestone I keep hidden away, and Orin's doll. I do wish I had my daggers but it is better you have them then those creatures…my daggers mean much to me, as you know." Tauriel pressed a kiss to his head but frowned as she felt his mind begin to pull away from her. They were running out of time. "Kili, come to Rhun. I cannot give you the place yet, but I know it is far east. We are to go by boat, so look at the maps in Mirkwood's records hall. Find where the waterway leads east, and follow it. As soon as I know, I can give you more information. But they have rendered all captives, including myself, unconscious. I can only assume it is so we do not make a fuss and cannot know the place they take us if we escape. But they do not know what you and I have, and they never will."
"Let's keep it that way." Kili sighed. "Kaw had told us we are to go to Rhun. We have a captive as well, Tauriel. One from the fight. It says nothing though and being heavily wounded, I believe it may take its truths to the grave since it refuses to allow anyone, including the healers, near it. But we are trying to get anything we can from it."
Tauriel looked thoughtful for a moment. "I doubt they will speak. Advise them to find out what the creature is, rather than what it knows, Kili. I feel as if there is something…familiar…about those creatures."
Kili nodded. "Thranduil believes they are somehow related to the elves, the Avari specifically. Last I heard, he is preparing a place in the healing halls for it. The problem is getting it to cooperate. So far, nothing they have sedates it, not even the few known herbs that will render even an elf unconscious. By the way, I had no idea there were so many you were susceptible to."
Kili was genuinely surprised, having grown up with the understanding, that nothing short of a lucky blade can take an elf out. The more he learns about his wife's people, the more he realizes how like mortals they actually are. Or, perhaps a better way of saying it was that elves, were not the gods walking middle earth many believed them to be.
They were wise, yes, and far more resilient than mortals…though not much more than dwarves who were rather resilient themselves. Both dwarves and elves have abilities men do not that some would say was borderline magic, and dwarves have a far longer lifespan than man. So really, elves had only a slight advantage to the dwarrow people…and that…was their immortality.
"I have told you time and time again, Kili, to stop believing the eldar are impervious." She paused as she realized their time was up. Kili, was waking, and it nearly broke her heart. She missed him so much already, but if they were to be successful, this had to happen. "My Kili, my heart, my soul, we must say goodbye." She fell into his arms, which Kili wrapped tightly around her. "Come to Rhun, Kili. Fili has Kaw, and I am sure he will send more information when he deems it safe. Be careful, and please, please be safe."
"I love you, Tauriel." Kili whispered. He still felt his wife in his arms for several heartbeats, but she was fading from him and fast. Before Tauriel could even respond, Kili felt himself be ripped from her as he toppled unceremoniously to the cold, wood, floor.
"Ow." Kili groaned as the vase on the nightstand beside Tauriel's very small bed toppled over and fell right onto his head, he must have jostled it when he fell from the bed. "That, hurt."
There was a trilling chuckle of a noise coming from high above Kili, and he looked up to see the solid white raven giving him a mocking look. Kili rolled his eyes and placed the vase back up on the stand as he lay on the hard floor in the still darkened room. "Rhun. Well, I knew that already." Kili sighed.
"Rhun." Umyra trilled as she fluttered down to land on Kili's chest. "Rhun." She repeated and began pecking at Kili as if to say he needed to get up.
"Alright. Alright." Kili shooed her off his chest gently and got to his feet. He stumbled around a bit as his eyes fully adjusted to the still darkened room. Eventually, he found the lamp and set to work, pulling his boots on and fastening his vest. He grabbed his pack then paused, and set it on the bed before digging through it as he looked for the doll from Naufi. "I miss you, all of you." He sighed, delicately holding the doll in his hands.
Kili looked out the window at the darkened woods around the city...so different than the open sky he saw from his bedchambers in Erebor. It felt odd, because he thinks he may actually have a better view of the world in his chambers, and one more suited to the eldar, then the eldar themselves have in their forest. Perhaps, that is why Tauriel always seemed so refreshed. He had been afraid she would feel buried and smothered living inside a mountain...but rather his wife thrived and perhaps, it was thanks to the generous gift from his uncle; a room with a place where an elf would have air to breathe and a sky to look up upon anytime she needed it.
Looking back down at the doll, Kili sighed and placed it on the bed before pulling on his travel coat and placing the doll in his pocket. Having it close, felt to Kili, as if his children were close. Kili loved his children, he loved being a father, and he could not wait to get back to his boys, and his baby girl.
"Oh good. Your awake."
Kili smiled and looked up to see Naurfaer lounging in the other room on the sofa looking through a book that held some early sketches Tauriel had done in her youth. The bedroom door was open which meant he must have looked in on Kili and decided to let him sleep rather than waking him. "You ready to go?" Naurfaer pocketed the book and stood.
"How long have you been back? Why didn't you wake me. We could have already left." Kili huffed as he shut the door to the tiny bedchamber once Umyra flew out behind him.
Naurfaer shrugged. "You need to sleep sometime, Kili. And you were talking to Tauriel. Would you have rather me woke you?"
Kili froze, eyeing Naurfaer. "How did you know?"
The elf rolled his eyes. "Come now Kili. You are smarter than this." He lifted a brow even as Kili scowled at him. Rolling his eyes, Naurfaer pulled on his own coat and re-sheathed his blades that were sitting on the small table. "First off, you were saying her name, and secondly, I know how strong your bond is. How is she?"
Kili sighed. "Unconscious but fine. She said to meet her in Rhun, they are going east by water, so they must be using the river."
"Makes sense, the waters flow east so it would be a quicker way to transport large groups. We can secure a boat ourselves once we leave Lothlorien."
"Must we go there?" Kili grumbled, not happy they had to make a stop before heading to Rhun.
Naurfaer nodded. "We do. We are going with Gandalf in hopes of finding more information, and we need all the information we can get Kili. Not just to save Tauriel, but to put a stop to whatever they are doing. Galadriel has ways of seeing things, that many do not…she may be able to give us invaluable insights."
"Can we go now than?" Kili pulled his pack on his back and made for the door. He heard Naurfaer following, so it must mean he was fine with them leaving.
It was interesting, to Kili at least, being in a city so filled with a sense of calm and peace despite the danger just outside its walls. The sky was dark, but the elves allowed to walk the paths past curfew were smiling and talking softly to one another as if they were taking a midsummer stroll rather than the cold winter day it actually was. Although the sky had cleared which Kili was thankful for, the temperature, at least to Kili, felt as if it dropped. As the young prince pulled his travel gloves on, few of the elves nodded in greeting to both Kili and Naurfaer as they passed, long used to the dwarves and the odd elf by now.
Naurfaer would simply smile but chose not to say much. Kili figured his thoughts must be on the road as Naurfaer normally was ready to engage in any opportunity to converse. Instead, his eyes remained forward though he did ask Kili if there was anywhere he needed to go before they met with Thorin and Thranduil who had the last few things they would need for their journey.
"I really just, want to leave." Kili said and Naurfaer nodded in understanding. However the pair was abruptly stopped when a young, dark haired, eleth stopped just in front of him.
"Most blessed morning." She said softly, her cheeks tinged pink.
"Um. Hello." Kili said lifting a brow. He was about to go around her but she stopped him with a hand on his shoulder.
"Oh, please do not feel the need to rush off. I was wondering if I may extend an invitation for you to join me for breakfast. That is where you are headed, is it not?"
Kili sighed, recalling why this elf seemed familiar. She was the one who waived at him…the one his wife was scowling at when they arrived. He shot a glance at Naurfaer who was very subtly gesturing to the chain Kili still had around his neck. The amulet Tauriel had given him. He had yet to take it off, but it was hidden under his tunic, pressed warmly against the skin of his chest. Maybe…he should have it out. Kakhf he wishes he had pressed someone to tell him what it meant.
Shaking his head no, Kili moved again to go around her. "Sorry, but no. We are only just leaving."
"But you had just arrived. I have not forgotten, it was only a day ago you came." She sighed. "I had hoped to run into you sooner. I have not been able to stop thinking about you, and you made appearances in my dreams last night. It is a sign from the Valar, it must be. My friend thinks me foolish because you are, well, forgive me for being so forward, but a dwarf…yet I am afraid I cannot ignore what I feel."
"Right…" Kili said folding his arms. He really wanted to leave, and certainly did not have enough sleep to deal with this delicately…as he normally would. So instead, in no subtle way whatsoever, he pulled the amulet out. "…look, I don't have any idea what this means…"
Beside him, Naurfaer dramatically threw his hands up in the air and rolled his eyes, giving Kili an exasperated look but Kili just ignored him and continued. "…but I think it means something about pairing or whatever." He also lifted his hand to show off the golden ring on his finger. "…I am very, VERY, happily married, so no, I am not interested in breakfast with you or anyone. Thank you. Now excuse me I need to be going."
He ignored the eleths gasp and pushed past her to continue his way. He heard Naurfaer muttering some apologies before jogging back up to Kili who had a deep scowl set on his face.
"You know I thought you were better with elves then this, Kili, but I am beginning to have my doubts."
Kili grumbled then sighed. "I'm sorry Naurfaer. That's not really me, I am just…a bit on edge. I will send an apology later." He paused looking up at the taller elf. "She isn't too offended I hope?"
"Taken aback, but I don't think she is offended." Naurfaer chuckled then glanced at the amulet. "It is called Gond-Melethor, the lovers stone. It is to be worn but not spoken of. It means…well…you are newly mated, and belong to another…essentially. The underlying meaning differs clan to clan."
"Mated? Like…betrothed? Or married? Isn't that what wedding rings are for?" Kili asked seeking further confirmation.
"Yes…and no." Naurfaer chuckled. "First of all, you should know that not all elves follow the tradition of rings and marriage ceremonies. I think in Mirkwood, it is a relatively more recent tradition. Well, in the last several thousand years from what I am told. In other clans, it is still common for a pairs outside royalty and nobility to simply declare themselves to each other and be done with it. So not everyone looks for wedding rings, Kili. And when I say mated…I mean…mated. As in…personal, intimate, relations. Legolas filled me in on the details as we rode last evening, about how it is seen in Mirkwood. When an eleth is expecting her first child, she gives this amulet to her mate to both announce, and to show all around them that he is the father of her child…and he is no longer to be sought out by other females. Kind of like…marking their territory."
"Oh." Kili said then smiled. "So…Tauriel peed on me."
"WHAT!" Naurfaer coughed out a laugh, then shook his head. At this point, he really should not be surprised what comes out of Kili's mouth. "Well that's a bit crude, Kili…but I guess…in a way…yes."
Kili hummed thoughtfully then nodded. "I suppose that is what Legolas said by it being a bit late. Especially considering we just had our fifth child, not our first. Why is it unspoken of? You seemed displeased by what I said earlier."
"First of all these people are prudes…so nobody among the eldar likes to talk about intimate relations out loud. Secondly, by telling her you didn't know about it, meant it could be interpreted you were unaware your mate was with child…and that it was yours. Believe me, from what I heard it can cause all kinds of trouble and rumors to be started." Naurfaer folded his arms. "Fortunately I doubt this will start many rumors, if any; not just because the two of you don't even live here, but also because Tauriel is NOT with child that I know of…" He lifted a brow and glanced at Kili for confirmation.
However, Kili just blinked up at him as Naurfaer stood silently waiting. "What." He said after a moment.
"Is she?"
"Is she what?" Kili asked again.
Naurfaer rolled his eyes again. "With child, Kili. I know you are tired, but keep up please."
"WHAT?!" Kili said in startled surprise. "Of course not!" He finally answered. "She JUST had a baby three months ago, nearly four. She needs time for her to be ready to go through that again, pregnancy takes a lot out of her. They are getting harder and harder on Tauriel with each birth she goes through. I would never suggest she fall with child so soon."
Naurfaer held his hands up in surrender at Kili's accusing glare. "I was just checking, these are meant to be given early into the pregnancy, so I was only seeking clarification. Tauriel probably just wanted to ensure other single females knew you were completely off limits."
"She should know I would never allow advances anyway. With, or without this thing." Kili said thoughtfully, gesturing to the amulet.
"So says the one who still hates Nagar." Naurfaer accused. "It is just a bauble with a meaning, one which can ensure others are aware of your permanent relationship status, without requiring the awkwardness of rejection. The eldar have never been good with rejection." He hummed with a smile.
Kili narrowed his eyes at Naurfaer then shook his head. "I disagree. I don't think they are any better or worse at it than dwarves and humans. Nobody likes to be rejected."
Naurfaer shrugged as they continued on their way. "Will you still wear it?" He asked as they past through the archway leading to through the cities center.
"Why wouldn't I?" Kili answered instantly. "It may not be quite my style, but Tauriel gave it to me, and despite having five children, the point behind it is quite true. I am hers. I am only hers. And I will never belong to anyone but her."
Naurfaer placed an arm around Kili's shoulder. "You know, of all my grandsons, you by far are my favorite, Kili."
Kili scrunched his nose. "I am your ONLY grandson, Naurfaer."
"Yes, well, if I had others, you would still be my favorite. Besides, I see Fili as a grandson as well."
"So…you like me more than Fili?" Kili asked, a grin growing on his face as he turned his wide brown eyes up at Naurfaer.
"Now, that is a rather horrid question, Kili. How could I ever choose between any of my grandchildren." Naurfaer huffed, but left his arm around Kili's shoulder.
Kili lifted a brow than narrowed his eyes at the elf beside him. "But…you literally just said…"
"I don't recall saying anything." Naurfaer sniffed. "How about less talk, and more walk." He pushed Kili forward, the young prince huffing out an exasperated laugh but decided it was too early to argue with the nonsensical elf.
The pair didn't say much else as they made their way to the gate where Naurfaer said they were gathering to leave. "They have the maps and packed some extra food for the journey, Kili, so there will be no need to make unnecessary stops."
Kili grunted in acknowledgement and quickened his steps. It was time to go find his brother and get to his wife, and he was done waiting.
"Kili!"
Kili nodded to his uncle in greeting. Thorin was holding the reins to Maryn who was stamping at the ground likely sensing her favorite dwarf's eagerness to get moving. As usual, Galaddal nudged her tenderly with his nose, calming her high-strung nature...if only a bit. Fortunately, Maryn tended to behave with Thorin so Kili wasn't worried about her biting his uncle. Though he did have to apologize to Galloron who winced in a very un-elflike way when he decided to stand too close to the black mare who leaned forward and bit him.
"These, are the most up to date maps we have of Rhun." Thranduil handed Naurfaer the maps then turned to his son. "I cannot convince you to change your mind." He spoke quietly in Sindarin, yet Kili's mind translated it instantly, being so used to the language by now.
"No ada." Legolas gave Thranduil a small smile. "She deserves to know we would come for her. You are needed here and you have yet to fully heal from your own confrontation with the Nazgul, so I will go. Prince Kili will lead the rescue for his people, and I will lead it for ours."
"You are coming with?" Kili asked surprised. He noted the fourth horse, Legolas's white mare, standing beside Gandalf's chestnut. The wizard was already mounted but speaking to one of the elves Kili did not know.
Legolas nodded, taking a saddlebag from one of the guards and placing it on his horse. "Are you ready to go, prince Kili?"
"If you are." Kili turned to his uncle. "I will find them uncle."
Thorin placed both his hands on Kili's shoulders. He was so grown up, and he could not have been more proud. "I do not doubt you one bit, Kili. Do not send Umyra back unless absolutely necessary, and be safe." He removed one of his hands and reached into his pocket, pulling out a large bag of gold and pressing it into his nephew's hand. "Remember, do not enter the cities...but this should be enough to hire a ship and find food if you need it. Do not forget, you have allies throughout our clans, use them as you need and come home as soon as you find Fili and Tauriel."
"And keep out of the Avari's lands." Thranduil said, specifically looking at Legolas who nodded.
Kili jumped up on Maryn and glanced to his uncle who watched him. "Be careful." Thorin said one last time as the door to the forest opened.
"Goodbye, adad." Kili said softly in khuzdul as he gave Thorin a smile which was returned. Then Kili followed Legolas, Gandalf, and Naurfaer into the forest.
Authors Note…the sequal…: Okay, still not really any more answers. Those I THINK come next chapter? Ya…it's the next chapter. He he he, a mating amulet. I like to put amulets in here don't I? Lol. Not all of them are huge deals, I just like saying, amulet. I want an amulet. Maybe not one of those cursed ones…maybe I don't want an amulet.
I am constantly going forward and back with these, so if I miss a detail…I am sorry. Lol. I write, then go back and edit, then listen to it. But some days I am listening, some days I am just editing, and some days I am writing. For example, I just listened to this chapter, chapter 12, but I am editing chapter 14, so I occasionally forget what happened in earlier chapters. So if I mess something up, I am sorry. I do try not to do that because it pulls you from the story. Not my intention, but I am only human and in no way a professional writer. Nobody has said anything, so I hope it isn't a common problem, but I just had a moment of anxiety thinking…what if I miss something? I better apologize in advance just in case. :D
Also, you may be meeting some Avari eventually. They are shrouded in mystery in the Tolkien-verse…so I get to have a little bit of freedom with them. That being said, disclaimer and a reminder, I am no Tolkien scholar. I do not pretend to be, nor do I make any such claims. all of this is very loosely based in the great Tolkien world. I do in fact do some research, but there are a lot of ideas that are contradicted through different sites as they are interpretations of works or themes…so what you read is not always true middle earth history. Morgoth did in fact perform experiments, but one big controversy's between Tolkien elitist's is WHERE orcs originated. Apparently, Tolkien's personal notes had them being corrupted elves, but he himself wasn't sure because there were too many holes to that as in what happened to their immortality? How where they corruptible, and what not. So apparently, he didn't publish his opinion because he was going to change it. However, he passed away before he did, so his son published his notes making it canon…despite people arguing against it claiming his notes were never meant to be published. I hope I am relaying that right, lol. Anyway, my point being, is in this story Morgoth did corrupt elves into orcs. I am NOT saying that is what is happening…but you will see. Adventures ahead! We will be panning to Tauriel next chapter for some answers. See you in a bit!