Reforged and Strengthened

by jezzibee83

A sequel to Reforged. Reforged and Strengthened follows the Reforged Universe and the lives of our favorite Sons of Durin and their elf, Tauriel. Watch as they fill their lives with adventure, love, and family in a world they earned through hardship and battle. Read Reforged first.

72. ACT V Chapter 14

Authors Note: Hi everyone, sorry this is really late. It has been…well…it's been a week. My grams just died, so most of my focus has been on work, school, and my family. I am alright though, she was suffering and now, she is not. So though it hurts, I know she is with my aunt so it's okay.

Now. I got a few things to say here. First, I will address that awful review by FROGGER 2023. I for one, understand trolls and bots happen. They just come with the territory of posting something in the internet for the public to read. That being said, they have been both reported, and blocked. I will NOT sit here and allow for anyone to say such harmful things to anyone. As someone who is part of the neurodivergent community myself, and despite being very high functioning, I want to say it is not easy, but I would not change who I am for anyone or anything. My neurodivergency (New word…maybe, lol) is just a part of what makes me, me. So I am not going to apologize to anyone for being myself. I am also VERY proud of this story. Very proud. Never in my life had I ever thought I would write something that has exceeded a million words in length…and yet I still keep going. Do I make typos and have grammatical errors in here? Absolutely. But I like to think my characters are entertaining and likable, my story engaging to at least some, and my love for this universe clear in my writing.

IF you are having any problems, or just need a friend, just shoot me a message on tumblr. I honestly don't mind and am always happy to be a listening hear.

Any and ALL my neurodivergent friends, wherever you are on the spectrum, you are welcome in the reforged universe. Again, I have reported that review, but unfortunately I am at the mercy of the admin to have it removed. I love you all. Truly. Anyone who has taken the time to get this far in my story, know, I love you. It means so much to me that you are taking time in your day to read this story. Truly.

Alright, now on to some shout outs:

First, thank you Ken. I appreciate what you wrote after that review. It is nice to have someone come to this stories defense and literally less than an hour after that review was posted. Thank you so much.

RinaHaven, you have made me go all pink! Lol, my entire room is pink. Anyway. I am so, so, honored that my fic is the first one you loved so much you re-read it. Thank you 😊

DocNikki! You know I love it when I see your paragraph long reviews. I always smile wide as I read them and they never cease to make my day. You will just have to see what I do with the people in Rhun. That is coming, so you shouldn't have to wait long. It's not this chapter though, lol. And Nelithi and Tork…well…we shall just have to see if or what happens there.

MissCallaLilly…I love Tork too. Lol.

I think that is everyone. You guys really lift me up. Thank you so much for your reviews and your kindness. I know this story is far from perfect, but it brings me so much joy to hear you are still enjoying it.

Anyway…this is a REALLY long chapter. I probably could have broken it up into three individual chapters…but I didn't want to because it's been a bad week and I thought I would treat all of you to essentially three chapters in one. Love you guys, and again, thank you so much for your support.

Chapter Fourteen

Viltarra sprinted through the halls and up the steps that led to the stables. Something had happened, there was some kind of battle and they were rushing someone back; that was all she knew. It could be anyone of them.

"VILTARRA!"

Viltarra didn't slow her pace as Nyaunni rushed to catch up. "What do you know?"

"Not much." Viltarra breathed rounding the corner to the stables. "Viltarra stop!"

It took a moment, but Viltarra froze and turned to look at Nyaunni. "Do you know who's coming? Is it Fili?"

"No." Nyaunni said placing a hand on Viltarra's shoulder. "Where's your mother, Viltarra. Where's Tarra?"

"Up with the younger children. I was in the library with Dissah when they told me to come to the main stables immediately. Ori offered to keep an eye on Dissah for me; they said it was an emergency and to keep the children away. Oin and Borrack are supposed to meet us. Wait…my mother…?"

"It's Vin, Viltarra." Nyaunni said softly.

Viltarra shook her head, tears gathering in her eyes. "Da?"

"He's alright." Nyaunni quickly added. "His life is not in immediate danger. But your mother should be here. I'll send for her."

"No." Viltarra shook her head. "I will get her. But can you call for Leotti? See if she would not mind coming up to stay with the children? Her shop should be closed."

"Of course. I will meet you in the stables." Nyaunni moved to one of the guards to send the message to Leotti while Viltarra turned into the throne room, racing across the golden floor to the royal suites.

Viltarra swiftly moved past the empty sitting room knowing the children were likely in Kili and Tauriel's chambers. Their children liked to sleep in their mother and fathers bed, and Viltarra couldn't blame them one bit. Dis has taken to sleeping with them rather than forcing them into their own beds, or one of the other chambers while their parents were away…it just made it easier all around.

Without even checking her own family chamber, Viltarra immediately went to Tauriel and Kili's rooms. "Mama?"

"In here gem."

Viltarra stepped into the master bedchamber to see Tarrah holding Kilion who was quietly crying while the twins were making faces at Ithtiri who looked as if she was ready to have a meltdown where she lay in her basket. Vilia was there as well, but asleep on the bed. Her little Vilia was all her father, and naps were essential to keep her happy and cheerful. Viltarra loved mornings when she could watch Fili hold Vilia, both still asleep, and both best left alone.

Now, Viltarra was no morning star herself…as Tauriel would put it. But being a baker for her entire life, and being a nomad…meant she was used to waking up early even if her body did not want to. Fili on the other hand, was royalty. Exiled royalty at one point, sure, but royalty none the less. So for him, mornings were, and have always been, free to manage as he wished before heavy responsibility fell on him. He chose to use that freedom, to sleep.

Just, don't catch them both when they equally needed a morning lie in. Things could get volatile real quick for anyone gifted the responsibility to wake them on those days; with exception of course for their children…who simply joined them in bed, the family cuddling together and simply enjoying the morning respite.

So Vilia being asleep, was no surprise, neither was Ithtiri, red in the face and ready to wail. But Kilion already crying was a bit of a surprise. He had been doing so well. Kilion had a hard time for a few hours after his parents left, but perked up when Nyaunni and his three elder brothers offered to take him to the market and get him anything he wanted.

They came back with all kinds of sweets, games, and Kilion picked out a rather pricy box that opened into a table easel. Nyaunni also paid for some oil paints, graphite, and both parchment and canvas rolls for him to paint and draw on. It so far, has kept Kilion occupied as he spent entire days drawing and painting.

Ithtiri, has been a bit of a different story. She had bouts when she was herself…a quiet, happy, baby. But she soon realized her mother was not there to feed her and was more than a bit fussy. She has refused to eat and even snubbed the bottle until she was too exhausted last evening and finally accepted it, likely because she was too hungry not to. According to Dis, she was up nearly every hour looking for Tauriel and Kili and pushed away the bottle when Dis tried to give it to her. Only late in the evening when she was too tired to fight it, were they able to get her to accept the bottle...and she drank three times what she normally did before falling to sleep with tears silently falling down her little cheeks.

Fortunately, Fin, Naufi, and Orin were exceptional elder brothers and did all they could to distract their younger brother and baby sister who were having difficulties coping with Tauriel and Kili's absence.

Viltarra just hoped Ithtiri will start eating better, or they would have to take her to Oin for suggestions. It was never good for a nearly four month old infant to be off their feeding routines. But now was not the time to think about that.

No, now, she had to try and tell her mother something was wrong, without alarming her in front of the children. "Mama…Leotti is coming up to mind the children for a bit. When she gets here, we need you downstairs."

"Downstairs?" Tarrah asked, then, nodded slowly when she saw Viltarra's expression…reading it right away as something was not right, but this was not the place to say it.

They waited only a few minutes before they heard running and Leotti's boys flying through the sitting room laughing. When they ran into the room, they of course went straight for Orin and Naufi. Rori's exuberance though, was what tipped Ithtiri over the edge and she let out an ear-piercing wail.

"Nice job, Rori." Orin huffed and moved to coo at his infant sister who was not having it.

"Oh dear." Tarrah sighed, handing Kilion to Viltarra and grabbing the baby.

"Rori! Leori!" Leotti instantly chastised. "I'm sorry about that Tarrah, they always get excited to come up here. Let me take her, you two go ahead."

Tarrah nodded, passing Ithtiri to the smaller dam. "She has a bottle on the table there, but she refuses to take to it. Maybe she will now." She gestured to the table even as she made for the door. The two dams could still hear Ithtiri's cries as they shut the door to Kili and Tauriel's chambers but there was nothing they could do to help her right now.

"What is going on Viltarra?"

Viltarra eyed her mother as they walked. "They said something has happened to da, mama."

Tarrah stopped, then began to run. "Where?" She yelled back to Viltarra who quickly caught up with her.

"They are bringing him to the stables. He is alright mama." Viltarra quickly interjected seeing the panic in her mother's expression. "Or, at least, Nyaunni said he was stable."

Oin and Borrack were already preparing a stretcher, while Ykla who came along with was pouring water from a pitcher into a bowl she had set on one of the barrels containing animal feed. At her feet several hens were pecking at the ground, and she shooed them away gently with her foot, but kept going about her work uncaring of her surroundings.

Dajnel had her head out of her stall, watching with interest while Uri was tugging at a pinfeather on his wing. The slightly larger of the two Aelug lifted her head high, looking right at the approaching horses. She let out a chirp, shaking her feathers out and standing once her advanced eyesight recognized Galaddal.

Elanath, Maryn and Galaddal's foal who was now fully grown herself, knickered and nodded her head excitedly as Galaddal raced into the stables. Nyaunni grabbed his reins immediately and held him in place while Naurfaer jumped down.

"VIN!" Tarrah cried and went to the groaning dwarf who grumbled something about needing a break from horses indefinitely.

"Move aside please." Ykla said gently but firmly. "Let's get you off that horse, slowly and carefully."

"My legs work fine woman!" Vin glared at Ykla.

It was only when Tarrah's concerned expression came into his vision that the dwarf deflated. "Tar." Suddenly he had tears, falling down his cheeks as he huddled into himself, trying to turn away from both his daughter and his wife…he was not ready for them to see him…not like this.

"We need to get him off the horse." Ykla nodded to Oin who pushed a step ladder towards Galaddal while Naurfaer pulled both Viltarra and Tarrah aside.

"Tarrah…" Naurfaer said quietly, a comforting hand on her shoulder while his other was resting on Viltarra's arm pulling them slightly aside while Ykla shot out instructions to Oin and Barrack.

"There was a battle in the forest." The elf's green eyes flicked to Viltarra who stiffened. "Vin was harmed. He lost his hand, Tarrah."

Immediately, Tarrah's hand went to her mouth and she ducked away from Naurfaer and ran to where Vin was finally stepping down to the floor.

"Tar, don't." Vin tried to turn to shield her from his wound, but Tarrah moved to his side, informing Ykla that she has him. The expecting dam nodded and seeing Vin was walking fine and being supported by his wife, asked Borrack to bring the stool over.

"Take a seat, lad." Oin instructed softly. "Let's have a look."

Tarrah took Vin's good hand, holding it tight as he lifted the blood-soaked wrappings the elves had placed.

"Yeh sure yer okay to watch, lassie?" Oin asked, but continued to unwrap when Tarrah glared at him not needing to say a word.

"That looks very well cared for." Barrack said impressed. "Elven healers are wonders in middle earth."

"Couldn't save the hand though. I think a damn spider ate it. You know, with what they were able to do for Kili and his scars…I kind of hoped they would be able to…do some special elf thing and fix it. But they couldn't do more than clean it and wrap it." Vin grumbled not wanting to look. Instead, his eyes were focused away from Tarrah and his wrist, staring at a pile of straw Uri was idly pulling apart until Nyaunni pushed his nose away from it and kicked the bale a bit further from his stall.

Oin hummed. "We know from our Tauriel, that elves harness great healing powers…but I do not think even the most powerful elf could regrow lost limbs, Vin. But the good news is…" He inspected the wound thoroughly. "…there is no infection and it looks nearly ready to close. Why don't we get you up to the healing halls, I think that would be the best place to do this. We will give you something for the pain."

With that, Oin accepted some clean wrappings from Borrack and loosely re-wrapped the limb just to protect it as they went to the halls. "Do you need assistance going up?"

"No." Vin said and stood. He was about to shake Tarrah off when she stomped her foot in frustration and moved to stand directly in front of her husband.

"Stop it!" Tarrah had tears streaming down her face. "Just…stop pushing me away Vin."

Vin dropped his head in shame. "Tar, I am…I am not whole anymore. I…I am useless to you. You should go back to the children."

Viltarra watched from maybe a foot away. She had never, in her life, seen her father so defeated, neither has she ever seen so much rage fill her mother. Tarrah was red in the face mad, though tears still fell from her eyes. "Da, don't say that." She tried when her mother seemed unable to speak, but Tarrah lifted her hand in a silent request for Viltarra to remain quiet.

"Useless to me?" Tarrah seethed. "We have been together, for one hundred and twenty-seven years, Vin. In that time, we traveled the world, built a business…lost a daughter." The dam was shaking with both rage and pain. "…and raised a daughter to be strong. We have a home now, and granddaughters. Not to mention grandsons who may not be blood, but who we love as our own nonetheless. In all that time, Vin, in all those years, and in everything we have accomplished…never…not once…have you been useless to me. Not when you broke your leg after the cart ran over it, not when you had fourteen stitches in your arm from dropping a knife, not when you refused to complete orders and instead, held our Viltarra when she lost her sister for two weeks straight, thinking we would lose her too."

"Broken, cut, those aren't the same Tar. My hand is gone."

"BUT NOT YOUR LIFE VIN!" Tarrah yelled outraged. "So what, because you are missing a limb, your life is over? Would you tell our daughter that? Our grandchildren? Would you tell them that there is no point in trying to make the most of their lives if they, Mahal forbid, get similarly wounded in battle?"

Vin shut his mouth with an audible click. The stable was silent with the exception of the hens scratching on the ground, and Elenath nickering softly to Galaddal who nuzzled her from where he stood outside her stall.

"Well? What have you got to say? Your mouth wasn't lost as well was it?" Tarrah had her arms on her hips, waiting for an answer.

"No." Vin said shortly.

Tarrah glared at him for several more heartbeats. The healers decided to let them hash it out and instead, worked to gather their things up to take back to Oin's office. Legolas, who only just came into the stables followed by Bofur, watched from atop his horse while the hatted dwarf shook his head having heard the shouting.

"Better give 'er more than that, Vin." Bofur said dismounting as he began unhooking the pony and horse from the cart.

However, Tarrah ignored Bofur and instead grabbed her husband's face tightly, forcing him to look at her. "Now you listen to me, and you listen very closely because I know those big old ears of yours work just fine. We…you and I…will get through this, together. We have never failed each other, not once, and that won't start now. You will never be less to me Vin, and I refuse to let you put me away because of this. I love you."

"I love you too, Tar, my greatest treasure." Vin said softly finally looking at her.

Tarrah gave him a small smile. "Don't think you're out of trouble for trying to push me away." She patted his cheek firmly but not in a way that would cause him pain.

"Ouch." Vin said playfully, not at all hurt by the pat.

"Baby." Tarrah teased, chuckling softly. "Let's get you upstairs."

Before they moved, however, Ykla was lifting the shroud off the body in the wagon Bofur had disconnected from his pony and the horse Naurfaer had originally taken. She dropped her head as she turned to the group. "A casualty of battle?"

Bofur nodded. "Bildak fought bravely, and fell protectin' the royal family. He is to be greatly honored, bu' his family needs to know. Idryk too fell, but we were unable to recover him. I know he don' have any livin' family...bu' the dam he was courtin' should be told."

"Idryk? Dear Mahal." Oin said shaking his head sadly. "I know 'im, lad jus' was cleared for duty after breakin' his wrist. He was jus' about teh ask Ulynah to marry 'im. Devistatin' it is to hear. Jus' devistatin'." The healer hung his head, then sighed and gestured to the door. "We need to ge' that hand taken care of. This place is no' clean and the last thing we need is fer yeh to get an infection which could put yeh at deaths door yerself."

"Wait." Vin said stopping Oin who paused as the baker turned towards his daughter. "Gem…"

"I'll tell her Vin." Naurfaer offered, but Vin shook his head.

"She deserves to hear it from her father." Naurfaer nodded and backed away, grasping Galaddal by the reins. He would be riding him back over the tawny horse he took to Mirkwood. Galaddal was fast, and a far better choice to take. Plus Galaddal could do distance riding while the gelding he road had never gone further than Mirkwood Forest...and who knows how far he will have to go to find Tauriel.

"Hear what, da?" Vin slowly walked to Viltarra, giving her a look she read instantly. "Fili?" Her voice was soft and worried.

Vin nodded. "Tauriel was taken, and Fili as well."

"What!" Dis had just come into the room, stopping short in time to hear the news. "Fili? Tauriel?"

Vin nodded, though his eyes never left his daughters. "They are taking her to Rhun. Kaw brought back word that Fili had escaped but was following Tauriel. Kili is leaving the elven city with Naurfaer as soon as he gets back to Mirkwood."

"And Thorin?" Nyaunni asked moving to stand beside Dis. She draped her arm around her sister by marriage, who seemed to be in a bit of a shock.

"He was torn between going to Rhun…" Naurfaer picked up knowing Vin didn't know about this part of the plan. "…and staying behind. But in the end, he decided he is going to stay. There is more, and Bofur is here to relay everything we know. Thorin said he will be back with updated news after he sees Kili off and appraises Bard in Dale of the situation." He jumped up on Galaddal. "But we need to get back."

"WAIT!" Viltarra moved to grab Galaddal's reins, stopping Naurfaer. "Rhun is dangerous if you don't know it."

"Then it is a good thing, I know it." Naurfaer said with a smirk. "I am older than I look, Viltarra, if you have forgotten. I have traveled between the lands of the north, south, west, and east. I am certain, I can navigate Rhun."

"Let me come." Viltarra said. "I know Rhun, I know it better than I know the Westlands."

"You know Rhun?" Bofur asked surprised as he guided his pony to water.

"Yes, ask mother and father." Viltarra looked to her parents who were watching quietly. "We preferred the east; the warm weather made living in the open much easier and tolerant, and the cities are bursting with need. Before coming to Ered Luin, we primarily traveled in and out of Rhun."

"No." Naurfaer said, jumping off Galaddal. "Viltarra, I know you want to help, but you are needed here. Your father needs you, and the children, they all need you here…in Erebor."

"Fili needs me too!" She argued.

"Fili needs you to be safe, and to protect his children." Naurfaer argued right back. "Stay here, help the mountain, and as soon as we have more news, I give you my word we will send it. We really must leave though. Gandalf wants us to ride to Lothlorien before we go to Rhun, he thinks we can find answers from Galadriel there. Bofur is remaining here to give you all more details. I swear it to you, to all of you, we will find Fili, and Tauriel, alive." He looked to Dis who nodded.

Naurfaer then jumped on Galaddal and without another word from he, or Legolas, they kicked their horses into full speed and raced from the mountain back to the forest.

"I prefer it when he is less serious and more willing to be open minded." Viltarra growled. She heard her father hiss, and decided to focus her attention on him for the time being. He did need her, and her mother needed her support. Though her mind kept screaming one thing...Fili is missing...again.

Sometime later, Viltarra sat at the end of her father's bed. In her arms, was Vilia who came up to see her granda along with her two sisters. Dissah sat beside Vin, reading him a story while Karra was in Tarrah's lap. The boys and Ithtiri were all with Dis who only just left after not being able to get Ithtiri to stop wailing. Oin said Vin needed quiet and rest, and since the twins barely understand the concept, and little Ithtiri was having a difficult time with her mother gone, Dis apologized and took Kili and Tauriel's children to their rooms.

Before they left though, Finli and Kilion had been silent as lambs and both a bit pale. Viltarra was worried about them, but at least Kilion was no longer crying. They considered not telling them...but as they swore they would never keep things from the dwarflings no matter what their ages are, they them down and explained to all of them the situation. The cacophony of yells, cries, and gasps nearly threw Viltarra over the edge, having been the one to tell them with Nyaunni and Dis. But she stayed strong, and pulled her daughters into her arms as Dis pulled Kilion into her arms when he broke down in gasping, choking, sobs. Finli seemed to just sit...staring off into nothing until he was pulled back to reality by Dis who cupped his face and said she is sure they will be alright.

In the large med-room, Kilion simply sat with his eldest brother who was promising him that their mama was strong and will be alright, and their da will bring her home. The twins on the other hand, were actively declaring war and asking Dis if they can go 'fight that evil scum with pure dwarven power!'

It was the pair of them knocking over several of Oin's tools as they ran around the room with imaginary axes, defeating the unseen foes, that had the old healer almost begging Dis to take them elsewhere…anywhere but here. Vin had chuckled though, as Dis told her grandsons they would certainly NOT be doing any fighting for at least seventy more years. A hundred, if she had it her way.

Vilia sighed in her sleep, bringing Viltarra's attention back to her. What was she going to do? She knew what she WANTED to do, but, she also knew where she needed to be. "You should go, gem."

Viltarra looked up, her father watching her with a knowing smile. Tarrah beside him had a different opinion.

"Do not listen to your father. He is under the influence of herbs and pain; he doesn't know what he is saying. Do you Vin?" Tarrah's face was set in a dangerous expression, her eyes flashing a warning to her husband.

But Vin just chuckled and pressed his good hand to Tarrah's face. She sat in a chair beside the bed, but was close enough for him to make contact. "My Tar, my treasure, so protective. I think we learned a long time ago, that we have to let Viltarra make choices for herself. Tell me, my bun, if it was me missing...what would you do?"

Tarrah stiffened. "I would do what I could while staying with my daughter to protect her, Vin. She has young children! They need her."

"Would you now?" Vin said skeptically. "I think you and I both know, that isn't true Tarrah."

"We will be alright." Dissah said softly, closing her book. "You go find da, mama."

"Ya, and take some orcs down on your way." Karra jumped up from Tarrah's lap excitedly. "You can use that move you showed me last week, with the downward slice and the dagger throw auntie Tauri taught us. Remember? It looked like this!" The little dam made the perfect moves, sans blades, which had Vin quietly laughing. Though Tarrah looked rather unamused. "Bet da is killing loads of goblins and orcs right now."

"Alright, enough with the killing." Tarrah snatched Karra mid swing and pulled her into her lap once more. The room fell into silence.

"But, what about da, granny? Are we giving up on him?" Dissah had tears gathering in her eyes.

"Oh my sweet roll. Come here." Vin pulled Dissah close, ignoring the pain it brought him as she gently climbed over him to get to his good side. "Nobody is giving up on helping your father. He is too important to us, and our people."

"What about auntie Tauri? Are we giving up on her?" Dissah asked, her voice slightly muffled from Vin's tunic she was pressing her face into.

Tarrah sighed. "No, Dissah." Her eyes fell on her daughter, her strong daughter who never gave up on those she cared about. "Would you go alone?"

Viltarra's head whipped to her mother. "It would be faster if I did, but no. I would talk to Dis and take someone with me."

"Let her go, Tar." Vin said softly then turned to his daughter. "You know the paths to take. Our old maps are in the trunk. It will have the borders of the Avari, but you know how to work with them if you have to, so be careful. Make sure to take extra trade resources for when you encounter them and if you see Lolanna, remind her who the real baking master is." Vin smiled wide, then froze as he lifted his bandaged limb. "Or was." He said almost silently.

"You'll bake again." Tarrah grasped his good hand and gave it a squeeze, but Vin didn't answer.

Instead, he released his wife's hand and reached for his daughter while being careful not to push Dissah off the bed. "The roads have always been dangerous, but you know where to avoid."

"I know da." Viltarra smiled and leaned down to press her head against her fathers. "Thank you, for believing in me." She whispered.

"I have always been your biggest fan, my most precious gem."

Viltarra smiled as she felt Vilia stir as she held her in her other arm. She buried her nose in her daughters golden hair as she stood, then, carefully, set her down on the bed where she rolled onto her stomach and remained lost to her dreams.

"Go talk to Dis, gem." Tarrah said with a heavy sigh. She lost the battle, and she knew it. Her daughter had adopted the impulsive nature of that family she married into, so she really should not be all that surprised. After all, Viltarra had gone off to a battle pregnant once…so Tarrah should have suspected her daughter would do something like this again. But what was more, is Vin was right. Tarrah would have gone to search for him if he was lost, just like Viltarra wants to do.

Viltarra nodded, pressing a kiss to her fathers head, then swept from the room. Karra was quick enough to run after her and took her mother's hand, patting her leg for Hiril, who was laying in the corner, to follow. Together the pair and the warg made their way to the suites where Dis was cooking dinner in the kitchen, looking lost to her thoughts while Ithtiri chewed on her fist on the counter beside Dis in her basket, the twins sat stirring a bowl of some sort of sauce, and Finli sat on the counter reading off a recipe Dis was hardly paying attention to. She knew it by heart, but let Finli help as he had seemed excited to do so. Whatever helped her grandbabies stay happy and keep their minds off their missing parents…Dis would happily agree to.

"Dis? Can I have a word please?"

The dam turned to Viltarra and nodded, then looked back over at her eldest grandson. "Just let it boil dear." She said to Finli. "And for the love of Mahal, do not let your brothers near that pot again."

" I didn't do anything." Kilion grumbled. He was standing on a chair, pulling the husks off the corn beside his baby sister in her basket. If Dis recalls correctly, Ivethin had sent it to Tauriel as a gift when Ithtiri was born. Tauriel had said she didn't know how she had raised four infants without it as it made it so much easier to take the baby wherever she went. Dis did not disagree.

Dis smiled and kissed his head as she passed him. "Not you dear, you are always lovely."

"Do you want me to watch Tiri?" Kilion asked, pulling away a husk of corn Ithtiri was trying to pull into her mouth.

"No darling, I will take her with me." Dis ran a hand through his ebony hair as she took the basket from the counter. "Why don't you move that to the table." She leaned in close and whispered, "So you can watch your brothers."

Kilion chuckled and nodded, jumping off the chair and taking his work to the table. Dis gave them one last glance to make sure they seemed alright then followed Viltarra out with Karra still grasping her mother's hand, though Hiril who was now being fed bits of sausage from Finli, decided to stay in the kitchen where she could get more food.

"What is it dear?" Dis said once they were out in the hall. She didn't smile which was a bit unlike Dis, whose inner strength sustained the family through good and bad…despite her volatile nature which was a match to her brother in every way when the occasion called for it.

"I'm going to Rhun." Viltarra said quietly.

Dis cocked her head, just watching Viltarra for a moment, the younger dam preparing herself to argue and substantiate her quest.

"Very well. Follow me."

Shock had Viltarra dropping her mouth until her daughter tugged on her hand impatiently. "Mama, let's go!"

With quick steps, Viltarra stepped into her suite then moved to her chambers where Dis was waiting with her arms folded and her foot tapping on the ground impatiently. She had set Ithtiri on the bed, making sure the basket was secured before she turned to her daughter by marriage. "Goodness, with how long it took you to get in here I thought you had already changed your mind."

"No. I am just…are you well Dis? I was sure you would be as against this as my mother."

Dis looked at Viltarra then pulled her down to sit on the bed. "Viltarra, I know that you know how dangerous this decision you have made is. Have I ever stopped you before?" She gave Viltarra a smirk, remembering jumping on the back of Dajnel with her daughters to join the battle of Minam many years ago. "But I will ask you to truly consider what you are doing and how it could impact the family…and your daughters."

Viltarra sighed through her nose, but it was Karra who spoke. "It's okay nan, she has to go get da, and our baby brother. They need her, both of them. Besides, we have you, gran Tarrah, and gam Nya. Well, granda Vin is here too…" She said thoughtfully. "…but I think he needs looking after like us. Don't worry nan, we know mama will come back, with da, uncle Kili, and auntie Tauriel with her."

Both dams gaped at Karra, keying in on one particular part. "Baby brother?" Viltarra said, looking lost, then her head dropped trying to force the shame away. Shame, that her body won't give her more children, shame that she could never give Fili a son, shame that she failed at the one thing crowned princes and queens were tasked to do.

Then Nyaunni came to her mind. It was not fair of her to think such things, because Nyaunni was no failure and she was not able to bare any children at all. Viltarra was thrice blessed with children, daughters from her own womb whom she carried and brought into this world; daughters of Durin, who were strong, who were fighters.

But Karra needed to understand, that the only brothers she will ever have, are her cousins. "Karra…I…you don't have any brothers my sweet. You, and your two sisters are our family."

"No." Karra smiled and shook her head. "You are wrong mama."

Dis looked between the two, shaking her head. "Karra, dear, we talked about how these things are done. Your mama, is not having any more children."

"I know nan." Karra said rolling her eyes. She tenderly took Viltarra's hand looking far older than she was supposed to look. "I keep having this dream, mama, of a boy with hair of spun gold and eyes the color of jade." Karra smiled wide, her grin all her father. It brought Viltarra both pain, and comfort. "But…he didn't come from here like me, Dissah, and Vilia did." She pressed her hand to her mother's stomach. "I don't know where he comes from actually. And…he doesn't look like us, like a dwarf. He...he kind of looks a bit like gamp and auntie...but I know he isn't from her either...so I don't know. It's really hard to explain because I could see him but not fully…and he was there, but not there at the same time."

Viltarra was at a loss, and so it seemed was Dis who tried to reason with the young dam. "It's just a dream dear."

"NO!" Karra was suddenly getting upset. "It is not a dream. He is afraid, and said he wants his mama, but she doesn't know who he is yet so he decided to visit me. Two nights, I have dreamed of him. He has to be real; you have to find him. He wants you mama, and he is scared and alone."

Dis pinched the bridge of her nose while Viltarra was still at a loss of what to say. "Please believe me mama. I am not fibbing, I promise."

Viltarra sighed and pulled her daughter into her arms. "I believe you are having these dreams, Karra. But do not get your hopes up for such things. I don't want you upset if…if it remains a dream."

"It's okay mama. I understand."

Dis shook her head, deciding to move on from the topic that she knew was difficult for Viltarra. "We need to make a plan, and don't worry about the children or your father. Nyaunni and I will see to them. You, however, are just as important to this family as Kili, Fili, and Tauriel. I can't and won't send you out without protection, so I don't want you to even think you are doing this alone."

Dis felt selfish not forcing Viltarra to stay. Her son was out there, her daughter, and Kili was in who knows what state with the two people he loves most not at his side. She should be closing down the mountain, keeping her remaining family safe. But, she also knew Viltarra, and knew she was headstrong and smart. Not to mention, Dis remembers listening to her daughter by marriage tell her all about her travels both in the pit over those many months it was just the two of them in captivity, and whenever they spent time together over the last two decades.

Of all Dis's children, her daughters by marriage and her sons, Viltarra was the most well-traveled. She understood the world outside their mountain walls, knew the city borders of elves, dwarves, and men, and even more...spent time in Rhun. She could do this, but she won't be doing this on her own by any means.

"You need a team if you are to go to Rhun. I know you are used to traveling with just your mother and father, but I would be more comfortable if you had a few guards and some of the company with you."

Dis sighed, thoughtfully running her hand through the thick braids that fell from either side of her head. "Dwalin would be my first thought, but he is with Thorin." She sighed. "Nori, Dori, and Gloin along with his son Gimli are working with Aeodhen and we cannot afford to spare them. Now Ori…well…do not get me wrong, I quite adore Ori…but as a warrior and protector? Well…let's just say it is best his skills remain rooted in political and academic ventures rather, I think we can both agree Ori is not the fighting type. That leaves Oin, Bombur, Bifur, and of course Bofur, who just returned. I excluded Balin, as I need him here in Erebor."

Dis's brows lowered as she began talking quietly to herself, her fingers counting as she whispered so softly, she doubted anyone could hear her. She then nodded and looked right at Viltarra. "I think we are going about this wrong. If what Bofur told us is right, Kili is not leaving Mirkwood until Naurfaer gets back…he is still there Viltarra."

"So…I can meet up with Kili instead of going straight to Rhun on my own." Viltarra said, understanding Dis's line of thinking. "But he will be leaving as soon as Naurfaer gets back. Even if I were ready to leave this minute, I wouldn't reach Mirkwood until likely hours after he left the elven city. Who knows how far he would go or which way."

"You won't be going to Mirkwood, darling. Naurfaer said they would be going to Lothlorien before making their way to Rhun." Dis said. "Karra, be a dear and go to your father's personal study, he should have a map of the land either on his desk or on the wall. Could you bring it to nan?"

Karra nodded and ran from the room. Over the last decade, they have been working on expanding Fili and Kili's rooms. Kili originally had more than enough space for he, Tauriel, Finli, the twins, and even Kilion. After-all, he did have the largest suites in all of Erebor…but when Tauriel announced she was pregnant again with Ithtiri, they realized they may need another few rooms.

Fili too was want for space for his growing family, and really it ended up being a fairly simple resolution for both of Dis's sons. They just had some developers come and essentially join both suites with the suites just behind them. It worked out perfect, and expanded both families' chambers to give room for all the children, and for Fili to have a personal, in-home study, which he rather enjoyed.

Karra's little feet could be heard as she ran from the bedchamber to the study, then back again. She held the rolled up parchment out for Dis who thanked her, unfolding it for Viltarra to see. "Take the main path here, around Erebor north for several miles."

"The path we took to Minam." Viltarra nodded. The old compound was still several hundred feet under a lake the forest river continuously fed. That didn't stop Nyaunni working with the elven king and some of the dwarves from Minam, to go and attempt to dive down and excavate. They had some successes, and many failures. But that is for another time. The point is, the road was well known now, and mapped by Balin and Thranduil.

Dis hummed in confirmation. "You won't want to go all the way to Minam, but you will need to cross the forest river, but do so carefully. It has been a cold season, and I am sure the waters are low in some areas. You should be able to find a place to get across, then head east past the forest, but do not enter the trees unless you absolutely must."

"Believe me Dis, I do not plan on entering the forest if I don't have to. Once I cross the Forest river, I will just follow the river Anduin straight to Lorien. The two rivers are not far from each other, so I should be able to find it quite easily and quickly." Viltarra said having reversed her destination to find the quickest route to the elven city Kili and Naurfaer were headed to. "The river, is a direct route to both Lothlorien, and the Sea of Rhun. Honestly, if I had a boat, I would just take that. I believe Anduin flows east, so it would be a much faster way to go and make things easier."

Dis shuttered. "We are people of the earth, Viltarra, not the waters."

Viltarra, however, shrugged. "My family has been on many ferries over the rivers, lakes, and seas we traveled across. They are nothing to fear, Dis; just a means of transportation."

"If you say so dear." Dis said, nodding to Nyaunni who only just stepped into the room, Hiril trailing behind her.

"I hope you know, I have the boys cleaning up an explosion in the kitchen. There is red sauce everywhere. Who left the twins unsupervised?" She eyed the map with a lifted brow. "Or perhaps I should be asking, who's leaving?"

Dis sighed, rubbing her temples, watching the warg plop on the ground as she licked the sauce she had clearly foolishly, allowed the boys to stir, off her thick fur. Those boys would be putting her in an early grave. Honestly, they had all of Kili's penchant for trouble, with Tauriel's intellect. "I suppose we will be eating in the great hall tonight. Such a waste of food." She shook her head, but decided to let them off the hook this once...they were dealing with their mother and father being gone the only way they knew how, and Dis refused to punish them for it...this one time. "Viltarra is leaving."

"Oh?" Nyaunni said intrigued. "I just got the full report from Bofur. Thing's don't look good." The red-headed dam paused looking at Karra who was watching them all with clear intrigue. "Karra love, can you go help your cousins? I promise I will tell you anything you wish to know, but right now I think the boys could use your help."

Karra let out a frustrated groan but slid off the bed. "Fine. But only because I want to know how Naufi and Orin managed to cause dinner to explode." She moved to the door but had a sudden change of heart and ran to her mother, wrapping her arms around Viltarra. "Please don't leave without saying goodbye, mama."

Viltarra immediately dropped to her knees to gather her eldest daughter. "I would never do that, my Karra." She held her for a moment, then Karra pulled away and ran out of the room.

"What does Bofur know?" Dis asked now that Karra was gone.

"He said there are creatures they have never seen before...creatures who were fierce and had a weapon that rendered the elves nearly useless. It sounds to me, like this has Minam written all over it, or, a similar situation." Nyaunni began pacing the room. "If they have the ability to turn creatures from aelúg, to those monsters we were forced to breed, imagine, what else they can do. Bofur said the beings they fought were not orcs, or goblins, but something else, yet familiar. Like an elf, bred with an orc, or goblin."

"What elf would mate an orc?" Viltarra asked disgusted. She was pulling on one of Fili's vests, her usual choice of outerwear that always made her husband laugh. He had once told her they might as well save Leotti the work and just have her make them the same things since more often than not Viltarra wore Fili's clothes, both his tunics and his pants. She thought they were far more comfortable than the dresses, leather fitted pants, and tight bodices Tauriel preferred. Though when she wanted to stir up her husband, Viltarra was not opposed to donning such things. Still, she preferred Fili's things to her own.

As she was gathering some things to take, Viltarra nearly bypassed the winter cloak. She knew Rhun was warm, even in this season, and some parts were desert lands which burned with heat year around. But still...she had to travers through the snows to get to there so she reached for it and threw it on the bed to take with her. It would not do for her to become sick from the cold before she reached the desert lands.

"Perhaps, they found a way around that." Nyaunni said handing Viltarra her blade and holster, before passing her several of the daggers Fili had made for her. "Remember, those who follow Sauron, will do anything to make their side stronger. Orcs are already strong…imagine pairing the brute force of an orc, with the agility and speed of an elf?"

"You'd have something very hard to kill." Dis said. "Makers great forge. If they succeed in building that kind of army…it would destroy the balance of middle earth."

"It would certainly destroy the humans." Nyaunni hummed. "They would have no chance against beings like those."

"If we are correct in our assumptions…I would like to think that is why those orcs are made from elves, and not humans." The family matriarch sighed. "Let us be thankful our people have yet to be targeted...if it is even possible." Instead of rolling the map, Dis folded it carefully and stuck it in Viltarra's small sack. It wasn't an original, just a copy so she knew there would be no problems with her taking it.

Viltarra paused in her packing and looked to Dis and Nyaunni. "What about Thorin? He won't be happy about me going."

"Oh, no. I am sure he will be throwing quite the uproar when he gets to Erebor and finds you gone." Nyaunni smiled wide. "You leave him to me and Dis. The mountain will be fine. Bofur said they believe if there is a siege, it will be on Dol Guldur, not the other way around. They would be signing their extinction if they march on Erebor, Dale, or Mirkwood."

"Sounds to me like they are trying to build an army, not decimate what they have." Dis agreed.

"Bofur also said, Gandalf mentioned it not being out of the realm of possibility, that a Nazgul may visit our mountain." Nyaunni added. "So Thorin is planning on informing Bard, then returning to Erebor to be here if that should happen. I doubt he will be away for more than another day or so at the most. I am sure he is eager to get back not just to be here for the enemy at the gate, but to be here for the children as well."

"I am a bit surprised he didn't go with Kili." Dis said honestly. "But I do understand. It was probably not easy for him to have to choose between finding our children, and protecting our grandchildren and our home."

"Kili is strong Dis, and capable. Thorin trusts him." Nyaunni placed a hand on Dis's shoulder. "He also knows, Kili can track Tauriel, and I know Fili won't be far from her. Thorin would no doubt add strength, but at some point, Kili and Fili have to be allowed to prove they can lead on their own...without Thorin. He taught them well, it's time they get a chance to show what they can do and step out of his shadow and into their own light."

Dis nodded. "I know."

"I think I have all I need here." Viltarra said, closing her bag and securing the flower pendant Fili had given her for their betrothal around her neck before tucking it under her tunic where it sat just over her heart as it always did.

"I will see if Bofur would be willing to travel with you to Lothlorien." Dis said. "And I am sure your mother will wish to say goodbye."

"I will go to her." Viltarra said as Nyaunni took her bag. "I don't want her to have to leave da and I need to stop by their chamber anyway. There's some maps and travel documents I need that will help with the journey, and I can get a few things for da while I am there."

"You go, I will get a pony ready for you. I am sure Karra and the boys will want to help." Nyaunni smiled and left the room, Viltarra's bag slung over her shoulder.

It was a tearful goodbye in the healing hall as Tarrah clung desperately to her only child. "You have the maps and our travel journal?"

Viltarra nodded. She had grabbed everything she needed, along with some of her father's favorite sleeping clothes and the book he was reading before he left for the forest. "I also have the compass." She held her mother just as tightly, hoping to give her some of her own strength.

As soon as she pulled away, Viltarra sat and gathered Dissah in her arms. "My strong Dissah. You are named after your grandmother, and a dam who led a people and was renowned for her strength, a strength your grandmother also has. I need you to help Karra with your sister, to be strong for each other. I will be back, but Vilia may not understand that."

"Don't worry mama. I promise to help Vilia." Dissah gave her mother a squeeze then sat back so Viltarra could press a kiss to her still sleeping daughters head. She whispered her love for her, trying not to let the tears fall as she pulled away.

"My gem." Vin said, causing Viltarra to smile. "Come home, and bring that trouble seeking husband of yours back with you. The mountain is a bit boring when he and his equally problematic brother isn't around."

"I believe, they would argue that Tauriel is the problematic one." Viltarra said with a choked laugh.

"They all are." Vin grumbled but held her firm with his good arm.

"Listen to Oin da, and try and rest. When I come back, we will bake some sweet rolls together, just you, and I. If you're up to it."

Vin broke, choking on his sobs but he nodded. "You and me." He said. "And don't you worry about me, gem, you focus on your travels. I am far from the halls of our ancestors, and…I am sure your mother will make certain I behave." Vin looked to Tarrah who rolled her eyes, but smiled at how their little Viltarra, was engulfed in her father's grasp.

"Diss, my little sweet, go see your mother off." Vin said as he let his daughter go and turned to his second granddaughter.

Viltarra smiled and lifted Dissah into her grasp. She was getting much too big to carry around and it probably looked comical to the dwarves she passed, but she couldn't find it in her to care.

"There you are." Dis said, holding Ithtiri to her shoulder. The tiny dam somehow had her entire hand shoved into her mouth while Kilion, who stood just behind Dis, kept trying to get his sister to even look at the bottle she kept turning her head away from. "Kilion, she doesn't want that dear, let's not upset her." Kilion sighed and nodded, opting to go and help Nyaunni.

"I thought you might like to take Elenath." Nyaunni said, patting the midnight grey horse who was about the same size as Maryn. "Between Maryn and Galaddal she is built for distance and speed. Plus let us all be thankful, she inherited her father's disposition."

Viltarra looked from the dark horse with light grey spots spattering her hind quarters, and her white and grey mane that matched Galaddal's. Though she inherited Galaddal's coloring and disposition, despite being a bit darker in color and more energetic, her size and shape were all her mother. She even had the long hair matching her mane on all four of her hooves.

Patting Elenath on the nose, Viltarra looked to Finli who was talking softly to her. Elenath, was Finli's horse officially, but Finli let anyone in the family borrow her since he really isn't allowed to leave the mountain anyway and he knew she needed to be properly trained and exercised. As such, both Tauriel and Kili had put long hours into having her ready for long distances, if needed, as well as ensuring she would be a horse they felt safe for their son to ride. Just because she was blood of their own horses, neither parent would ever risk giving any of their children a horse who would one, spook easily, and two, would not mind in dire situations. Of course they could not replicate everything, but even Nyaunni had to admit…Eleneth was one of the best trained horses birthed in Erebor.

Not that there were a lot of horses in Erebor…because there really was not. They mostly had ponies and rams for the people to ride. Only the royal family had horses. But Elenath was far better tempered than even her mother who bit anyone who got to close besides Kili, Tauriel, and their children…and she was certainly easier to handle than Rhya who was known to be as ill tempered as her owner…Thorin. Kit was…how would they put it…well…he was as docile as a cow in the pasture…and ate as much as well.

"Are you okay if I borrow her, Finli?" Viltarra asked as she walked up to her nephew. She wanted it to be his choice, since the horse was his.

"It's okay auntie V." Finli smiled as he stepped down from the stepladder after buckling her bridle Nyaunni had helped him put on. "I know you will take care of her."

Viltarra nodded looking at the horse who was a bit too big for her. Maryn was hardly larger than the large ponies' dwarves favored, and Elenath was about her mothers size…but still…Viltarra never got used to climbing on the larger animals like Kit, Galaddal, or even Elenath. She felt too far from the ground.

Then again…

Viltarra glanced over her shoulder at Dajnel who was chirping and prancing around the large open space, chasing a rooster who kept trying to peck at her claws. Nyaunni must have let her out to stretch her legs and wings. Uri's pen door was open as well, but he was on his back, tongue lolled out, and fast asleep. Thank Mahal she was not being forced to ride one of, them, again. Nyaunni was still training them for one thing, and two, Viltarra hated flying. Give her a horse, a boat, even a bloody ram over one of Nyaunni's aelúg. One time, was enough for Viltarra. She sent up a quick prayer to the maker, that he would grace her with a journey where she could keep her feet as close to the ground as possible.

The dam's eyes caught on Karra, and she smiled softly as her daughter fastened the leather and mithril harness Tauriel and Fili had made for Hiril. It was the perfect size for her and had a few satchels on it where some food, and even a few small knives could be placed. It was also armor for the family warg; the thick leather paired with a few mithril plates covered her chest and most of her back, offering protection for where Hiril was most vulnerable.

Since Kaw and Umyra had mithril armor, Fili got permission to shape the metal for Hiril as well. Thorin didn't have a problem as long as he used the precious metal sparingly. Though ravens were larger birds, they were still much smaller than a warg…despite Hiril being on the smaller size for her kind…so Thorin didn't want Fili using too many of their stores to create large pieces for the animal. Fili knew better anyway, and had indeed only made mithril pieces for certain parts of the armor, whereas the rest was made up of thick leather Tauriel had shaped and mended. The eleth had grown quite proficient in creating leather armor over the years and Viltarra was both impressed and grateful for what they did for Hiril.

Viltarra patted Elenath again, who nudged her when she realized the dam wasn't paying attention. But just before she pulled herself up on the tall…well tall for Viltarra…horse, Bofur came into the stables, whistling joyfully to himself.

"Perfect. I see I made it in time." The hatted dwarf grinned. "I am ready to be of service my lady." He bowed, his hat falling to the floor as the children all laughed. "Whoops. Cannot lose me head jus' yet. Goin' teh need that."

Viltarra rolled her eyes. "Enough of the bowing." She then looked seriously at Bofur. "Thank you for agreeing to come Bofur. I know you just arrived home, it could not be easy to have gone through a battle, then come home, only to go back out again. I really…."

Bofur, however, interrupted whatever else she was about to say. "The only reason I came back ta Erebor, was teh help yer da, bring Bildak's body back, and let everyone know wha' was happenin' without using one of the ravens. If I have no' of come, I would be with Kili right now, Viltarra. Since yer goin' back to Kili, then I figure, I am jus' headin' teh where I was always supposed teh be. It is no worry at all lass."

"He's all watered, fed, and re-saddled for you." Nyaunni gestured to the pony Bofur bought several years ago from a breeder in the Iron Hills. The queen under the mountain was rather jealous Dain had such amazing ponies and rams, and after some haggling, had only just been able to secure several pairs to begin breeding them in Erebor. It will be a few years before they catch up with Dain, and when she does, he challenged her to a competition to see who had the better breeders. Nyaunni eagerly accepted the challenge. But it was a long way coming.

Still, the entire company, save for Naurfaer who said he would just borrow Galaddal if he needed to go somewhere, now had ponies or small horses, which Nyaunni had told Thorin was necessary in case they had to travel…and it appears she was right. It also made it easier for them to visit Mirkwood. Perhaps it was time, once again, to try and persuade Naurfaer to get himself a horse. Why he refuses is beyond her.

"Thank ya my lady." Bofur bowed again to Nyaunni, this time taking his hat off as he did so it would not land on the floor again, though a few blocks fell from his pockets, and he grinned mischievously as the twins picked them up.

"You dropped these, master Bofur." Naufi said moving to hand one back to Bofur.

"Did I now?" Bofur said climbing up on his mount though he didn't move to take the cubes. "How about, yeh keep em for me, ya? In fact…they are in need of yer cleverness. There's a surprise inside 'em, if yeh can figure out how to open 'em up. Yeh will need to work together."

"What's the surprise?" Karra asked, leaning over Orin to get a peek. He handed her the cube he held and she turned it about in her hands before passing it to Dissah and Kilion, while Finli inspected the second cube.

Bofur scratched his head in thought. "Ya know…I canno' remember. Tell me when I get back though, if yeh figure the puzzle out."

Dis shook her head, a soft smile on her face. Bofur, was such a good dwarf. If he ever decided to settle and have children, he would make a wonderful father. She knew he brought those to keep the children's minds off what was going on around them. No doubt, the puzzle was intricate enough to keep them busy and distracted for quite some time.

"Remember, stay out of the forest." Dis said as Viltarra turned Elenath to the door and kicked her forward, whistling for Hiril who licked Dissah, then ran behind the dam she protected, easily keeping speed with the horse.

"Yeh don't 'ave teh remind me." Bofur grumbled and kicked his pony into a trot and followed Viltarra away from Erebor, and the safety the mountain offered.

Dis stood at the door, Ithtiri still in her arms and Nyaunni beside her. "I pray we are doing the right thing, Nya." She whispered, her eyes not leaving Viltarra and Bofur's retreating forms.

"Me too." Nyaunni said, turning from Dis to put Dajnel back in her pen, then herd the children to the feasting halls for dinner.

"Oi, you. Dwarf." Fili scowled as he turned his blue eyes to a drunk looking man sitting on a barrel. Fili was a crowned prince of an entire people, a people whose respect he earned not just through his name, but by his deeds in helping to regain Erebor. Yet, here he was, being summoned by a human with a, 'Hey you. Dwarf."

Now Fili was no Thranduil, he didn't wear elaborate robes or fancy circlets everywhere he went so others knew his station...but he was a bit annoyed to be shouted at in such a manner. Even in Dale he and his family were well respected.

Then again, nobody here knew him for anything more than what he was...and Fili...was clearly a dwarf. Therefore, the crowned prince of Erebor decided...against his better judgment mind you...to keep his blades in his pockets for the time being and simply ignore the drunk.

"I'm speaking to yeh!" The man got annoyed, rising from the sand and filth covered ground then stumbling about as he moved towards Fili who rolled his eyes. There was no honor in fighting a drunk...even if he was being a kakhuf inbarathrag and needed to be taught some manners. "DWARF!"

It had been two days since Fili got off that boat and out of that harbor only to find himself in yet another small town on the water crawling with humans wearing masks similar to the ones the men were wearing when they came to unload his sister and the other unconscious elves. This clearly was not a town he should be in, so Fili did not dare to look for a safe place to rest there. Every one of his senses told him to leave, to get out, and find another place to make camp, so he did.

Fili instead kept going well into the night. He had watched them take his sister, saw the direction they went, but he lost their trail fast. He sent Kaw to search ahead, but the raven came back one night later with no news. Though he did have a snake which Fili cooked over a small fire he built in the ground; a technique he was taught by Dwalin in his youth to stay out of sight. It was difficult at best to do here, as the soil was mostly sand and clay, but eventually Fili was able to get some small flames going in the hole he made. He cooked and happily shared his meal with Kaw.

A days walk later, doing his best to go in the direction he thought they took his sister, Fili found his way into this bustling looking city made of sandstone. There was some color scattered throughout the roads in forms of stand awnings and coverings, but the mass majority of it was all discolored by seemingly endless days of sun. It made Fili miss the rich colors of his mountain home. The heat also threw Fili off quite a bit as well as forced him to remove the winter cloak he had on. At home, they were in the dead of one of the worst winters in recent history…yet here…it was hotter then mid-summer. Fili did recall his uncle and Balin telling him Rhun along with the Deep South lands all had opposing temperates to the Westland, but since Fili had never experienced it, he was more than a bit unsettled by just how severe the difference was. This was all so contrary to Erebor, even to Dale and Mirkwood.

Fili sighed. Thinking about his home made him miss his wife, and his daughters. How he wished he was there with them instead of here, likely baking in the sun.

Smiling to himself, Fili caressed the bracelet on his wrist, the one he made long ago with Karra. Kili had been showing her the finer parts of smelting, and Karra insisted she be allowed to try it out herself. With her uncle's help, and Fili's, they made her a delicate chain. She then asked if they would help her make two more, one for mama, and one for her da. Fili's cheeks had warmed with love for his little girl, and Kili took a back step, helping only from the sidelines as Fili chose a slightly larger mold to work with and together with his precious Karra, made a bracelet.

Kili then gifted both he and Viltarra beads beautifully carved to represent Karra. Then when Dissah was born, he made one for her, and last Yule, had presented he and his Viltarra a bead for Vilia. It sat loosely in front of the cuff he wore identical to those most his family wore; Fili never took either off unless he had to, much like to this day Tauriel still wears the beaded bracelet Hillanna had given her two decades ago.

Fili sighed to himself as he tucked the bracelet back into his sleeve. It certainly helped to have a piece of his home and his family when he was so far away, but in a city like this, it was best kept hidden from hungry eyes who would take anything that seemed to have value...and the man calling Fili had eyes filled with lust for just that. It had Fili quickly dropping his hand from his wrist and ensuring his sleeves hid the silver and other precious metals he wore from wanting eyes.

Fortunately, the city was busy, and Fili was able to step into a crowd and get away from the man still following him. Or, at least he thought he did until he was roughly shoved into an alley and slammed against a wall.

"I said, oi, dwarf. Don' like it when I am ignored. How's abouts yeh be a good little dwarf, and give me yer gold. I caught ya, ain' tha' a rule? I catch yeh, yeh give me gold by yer laws. Yer gold. Now."

The rancid smell of the man's breath had Fili turning away. Well no help for it now. He did TRY to ignore him and walk away…but this man asked for it. "Alright. Now you have my attention…but I am afraid you will be regretting that. And I regret to inform you, that you have been grossly misinformed. We dwarves covet our gold, so we have no such laws. Which means, you have two choices; you can let me go and we can pretend this didn't happen…"

"Or?" The man breathed.

"Or…" With a quick twist and a shove of his foot, Fili was able to push the taller man against the opposite wall. Despite being shorter, Fili was much stronger and slammed the man hard enough to cause him to lose his balance nearly falling to the ground, but Fili held him firm against the wall with one of his razor-sharp daggers to the man's neck keeping him from moving. "Or, I can make you WISH this didn't happen."

"Please." The man went from a drunken confidence to frightened real fast. "My family is starvin', dyin'. Dwarves have gold. Piles of it if the rumors be true. It won' be nothin' to ya."

Fili sighed, his eyes rolling skyward. Bleeding heart, he can't kill this man. Did Fili have gold coin...unfortunately no. He had daggers inlaid with gold, sure, but his coin was in his pack back in Mirkwood. He had not anticipated his sister would do what she did...though in hindsight, he really should have. So he had no coins to offer this man, even if he wanted to…which he didn't.

Furthermore, in no way was Fili going to give this man a blade either, desperate for gold or not. Did he feel bad for his family...if there was a family...of course; Fili wasn't heartless and as a father himself, he knew he would do anything for his wife and daughters…not that he could ever see himself mugging anyone for coin.

"If you care for your family at all..." Fili growled. "...you would be wise to learn what and who NOT to pick a fight with. You are an idiot to target dwarves. Catch a dwarf and they will give you gold? Whoever told you such nonsense wanted to see you killed. Understand? No dwarf, will part with their gold without a fight, captured or not, and you would not last even a squabble. Clean yourself up, and find a better way to feed your family."

The man nodded frantically and fell to the ground as soon as Fili released him. He glanced at Fili one last time, then ran, stumbling over crates as merchants cursed him as he passed.

Fili shook his head and pulled the hood from his tunic up, hoping to better hide his features. He thought about putting his cloak back on…but it was just too warm to wear something so heavy, even for a dwarf. Despite the severe temperature changes from the westlands to wherever this place was in Rhun, it didn't bother Fili too much thanks to his dwarven fortitude. He was accustomed to handling more extremes than humans, but the people around him were either wearing protective coverings or, trying to stay in the shade provided by the stands.

Looking up at the sky, Fili noted the suns location guessing it was somewhere just after noon. A croak sounded just above him causing Fili to turn his attention to the black and white raven who made a chittering sound then dropped a fruit of some sort in Fili's hand. "Did you steal this Kaw?" Fili said rolling his eyes. The raven just ignored him, picking at a feather on his wing.

Fili sighed and found an empty set of stairs leading to a boarded up door. It didn't offer shade which was probably why nobody was sitting on the steps, but it did offer a place to stop and eat. As soon as he sat on the warm steps, Fili immediately bit into the juicy fruit, savoring the sweet flavor. He turned the odd but tasty fruit over in his hands as he ate it, hoping his brother and sister's raven found it on a tree verses nicking it off some merchant. Then again, Fili looked around the busy city not seeing a single tree in sight, maybe it was best he doesn't ask.

Once he finished his little treat, Fili began pulling daggers and deciding which ones he was willing to part with for some much needed coin. It was extremely difficult, but in the end, he opted to part with four daggers which didn't really have any sentimental value to him. Besides, even with selling four of his blades he was still very well armed, so he wasn't worried about defending himself...but he really hated handing over his weapons.

Knowing he would need a mount and preferably sooner rather than later, Fili stood and began searching for a merchant to trade with. Fortunately, Mahal was guiding him, because several stalls into the market was a forge run by none other than one of his own people.

"Maker's blessing, friend." Fili nodded to the dwarf who was throwing a blade into a barrel of water, the hissing and steam filling the air made the dwarven prince even more homesick for Erebor.

"Same to yeh." The dwarf grunted and wiped his hands, turning his attention to Fili before stopping in his tracks. "By my beard, and my fathers. I am blessed indeed. Yeh go' marks o' Durin's folk. Where do yeh hail from, friend?"

"Erebor." Fili said picking up a curved short-blade with beautiful runes all along the blade and a hilt that looked as if it was carved from a wood Fili could not name. It was almost violet in coloring. He was quite enamored by it, but unfortunately, without any gold he would have to let it go. "This is beautifully made." He turned the blade over but set it down knowing he could not even OFFER what that blade is worth.

"I'd take ten silvers fer it." The smithing dwarf said.

A steal, Fili thought, but sighed. "That's a bit low. You should get a few gold for it, if not twice that." Fili smiled. "As much as I would love nothing more than to have this, I am afraid I am here to sell, not buy."

"Eh?" The smith seemed confused. "Alright. Wha' ya got lad?"

Fili placed his blades on the counter, and the smith looked them over, inspecting the marksmanship, the sharpness, and the overall wear of the weapon. Fili though, was impeccable at caring for his blades so each one was as good as the day it was made.

Impressed, the smith made a high offer which Fili eagerly accepted. He had more than enough to buy the purple hilted blade, but decided against it. Though he did reach out to clasp the smith's hand. "I appreciate this, truly. But if I can beg a favor?"

The smith nodded, a curious expression on his face. "I will be returning to buy those back. I understand if you have to sell them, but if you could perhaps, make it a last resort? I am rather attached to those but I need the coin more than I need the blades at the moment."

The smith laughed, a burly deep laugh. "Alright laddie. If yeh say so. Wha' is yer name? Though I doubt I will forget yer face."

"Fili." Fili smiled wide and the smith nodded, then his eyes widened and he almost doubled over in surprise.

"Fili...of Erebor? No' crowned prince Fili?" The smith said so quietly, even Fili could barely hear.

Fili nodded and the smith grabbed him by the shoulder and pulled him into the forge. "Lad, wha' are yeh doin' in this town alone?" He looked around Fili searching for guards but saw only the humans and the few dwarves he already knew walking the sandstone paths. "It is dangerous here fer the upper-crusted folk like yerself. Where are yer guards? Yer party?"

Trying not to bristle, Fili folded his arms. Fili was no useless aristocrat who couldn't take care of himself. "I'm in a bit of a situation, actually, and at the moment, it is just myself." A loud croak sounded from one of the poles holding the structure of the forge together, and Fili rolled his eyes. "And the raven."

"Makers hammer!" The smith scratched his head as he looked at Fili. "Are yeh headed to the Blacklocks mountain?"

"No." Fili said, unsure how much information he wanted to give a stranger, dwarf or not. "Can I ask your name?"

"Yeh can ask anythin' yeh want." The smith said honestly. "I am Portok, at yer service." The dwarf bowed his head. "If yer no' headed to the mountain, where are yeh headed?"

Fili leaned back against the table, looking at the dwarf. "Don't know, honestly. But tell me, have you noticed anything odd going on in these parts? Creatures you couldn't name that may be related to orcs and goblins? Orcs traveling the night roads? Anything of the sort?"

Portok stroked his black beard. "Orcs eh? Haven't seen one o' em for nigh ten years. An goblins? They don' really come through here...least no' when I am about. An' as far as odd creatures go…yer in Rhun lad…this is the land o' odd creatures. You won' find a town where there ain' no odd creatures walkin' about. Things from the stories yer mam told ya…many are based of legends from these lands and many others. Bu' nothin' like an orc though."

Fili cursed. That was not a good sign. He was headed the wrong way. "You don't know where I can purchase a map of the region, do you?"

"Purchase? At the mountain, sure." Portok nudged his head to the south, though Fili saw no rising hills or mountains beyond the sands swallowing the city. "Bu' maps in this city? I would no' trust bein' accurate fer more than a mile out o' town. An' many o' 'em lead folks te dangerous spots with only looters waitin' fer em. No. Aint no maps to purchase, but take this." Portok pulled his pack from a crate and rummaged through the contents, removing a tattered and torn bit of parchment yellowed by the sun. "Its me own map and has been in my family for generations. Accurate as a mining dwarf pullin' silver."

Fili took the map, not having it in him to refuse. He needed the map, desperately. However, when the smith also grabbed the curved blade Fili had been lusting over moments ago, Fili held his hand up. "I can't take that, Portok. I am beyond grateful for this map, and I will be bringing it back when I come for my blades. But this...is too much."

Fili knew the difference between wealth, and poverty. He had seen much of it in his life, on both ends. He was also raised by a mother who was, for one with royal blood and a title, humble when it came to wealth. Dis taught both Fili and Kili the value of labor, and appreciation for what you have.

Additionally, Fili and Kili didn't grow up like his daughters, nephews, and niece will; surrounded by fortune, gold, and prosperity. Fili and Kili didn't just work for personal development...Thorin didn't just run the forge in Ered Luin because he enjoyed it...it was a necessity both for their family and their settlement. They were self-sufficient as a family. All of their earnings came from the labor of their hands, rather than the taxing of their people. All of their food and things they had purchased in Ered Luin came directly from their hard-earned income. Even now, with a treasury full of coin, Fili prefers to purchase things for his family from he and his wife's combined incomes between the forge and the bakery. He knew his brother and Tauriel felt the same.

Growing up, both Thorin and Dis had made it clear to Fili and Kili that any money that came from the people, went right back to the people in settlement repairs, livestock, and other necessities to keep the city running and the people healthy. Ered Luin was not a prosperous city, but there were no hungry among them, no homeless, no ruin. Things were of course a little different in Erebor, but old habits die hard.

However, Fili could tell this smith, Portok, lived on very little. His clothes were torn and had patches over patches. The hammer he used was clearly mended thrice times over and barely hanging on, and even his forge looked rough and a bit unstable to Fili...who would never say such things out loud. Dwarves, especially those who mastered in the forge, took pride in their work and their space. Fili didn't doubt for a moment that Portok put whatever extra coin he earned into his forge which meant, he didn't have much coin to spare.

"I can't take this, Portok." Fili said moving to hand the blade back, but the smith stepped away, a stubborn expression on his face.

"Teh have one of me blades, in the hands of the future king of our people would be the highest honor, meh lord." The dwarf bowed low.

Fili sighed to himself. My lord. The older he got, the more his people called him that, and he was not quite used to it yet. His uncle had many years yet to rule, and Fili was in no way eager to take his uncles place. He will when the time comes, absolutely, but not until Mahal bids it, and Thorin thinks he is ready for the heavy mantle. Fili does a lot in the mountain, but he still has nowhere near the responsibilities as Thorin has, and he wonders when his uncle will deem him worthy to take on a more hands on approach at ruling.

As it is, Fili is happy to concede to his uncle's judgments, and will run his forge in the markets while raising his daughters and doing any task his uncle bids him until the day comes when Thorin, his uncle, his father, thinks he is ready to join his side.

Carefully, Fili accepted the blade with a nod of his head. He didn't want to insult the dwarf for his kindness. However, he will be returning with the map and gold enough to equal what he felt the blade was worth...and maybe a bit more for the dwarf's generosity despite his need.

Bowing his head in respect, Fili smiled as he strapped the curved blade to his side, the holster easily fastening to his thick belt as if it were made for him. "I will wear this with great pride, Portok, thank you, truly. Your generosity is valued greater than the gold of our creators halls."

It was one of the highest compliments a dwarf can give, and Portok reddened a bit, then bowed again. "If I had more ta give, I would. Is there any other help I can give yeh?"

Fili was about to say no, he had done more than enough, but then, his blue eyes flicked to the map. "By chance, Portok, how well do you know Rhun?"

"Quite well. My family has never left the border. No' even when our clan lords went west ta help with the wars. We were among the few who stayed ta protect the mountains and lands."

Fili moved to a table that was conveniently half hidden behind the large forge oven at the center of the stand, and laid out the map. He studied it with Portok at his side. "If you were to pick a place, where no dwarf or man would dare go in Rhun, where would you suggest?"

Portok didn't even look at the map as he let out another burly laugh. "Jus' throw the dagger at the map lad, and you'd land in such place. This is Rhun laddie, most the land in these parts is built fer only the strong to endure." He took a breath shaking his head. "These parts are filled to the hilt o' folk ready the kill yeh fer the clothes off yer back, an' beware the wondering merchants who are more like wonderin' mercenaries who yeh either pay te leave you alone, or risk bein' stripped of all yeh have. Even the lands outside the city borders are valleys o' death. We dwarves may be hearty folk as made by Mahal...but I will tell ya lad, stuck in the noon sun, even we can only sustain so much before the elements take a toll on us here. Hadar is much the same. Desert lands are no' made fer the weak."

Portok began pointing to lines and shadings on the map. "Bu' if I were to give yeh advice...be wary o' these areas. They belong to the elves. Spiteful, manipulative, beings. No' like those yer used to in the west, Fili...bu' far worse. These elves, take pleasure in playing with their prey. They are warriors, but usually stay in their lands. Only recently..." Portok paused.

"Only recently what?" Fili asked now intrigued.

"Well..." The smith said, breathing heavily through his nose as if trying to decide what to say. "...they 'ave been becoming stirred up...more aggressive...like disturbed ants ready teh protect their mound. Most folk, our kind and man, know not to go near their lands and they don' come near ours. We 'ave an understandin' yeh see, a truce, which has lasted centuries. Only now, in the las' year, 'ave we seen them walkin' roads and attackin' outside their borders. They claim some of their own 'ave been taken...and they are ready teh go to war for answers."

"War?" Fili said surprised.

"Aye. War. No' much we can do, an' ain' no one knows about any missin' elves here."

"I do." Fili sighed looking to Kaw who croaked. 'nana.' softly to himself.

"Yeh know about the missin' elves in Rhun?" Portok looked surprised.

Fili lifted a brow. So much for keeping things to himself. "I know of missing elves in the Westland's. Specifically, elves missing from Mirkwood forest which borders Erebor."

"Is tha' why yer here?" Portok asked.

Fili hummed. "My sister was taken. I am going to get her back."

"Yer sister?" Portok tilted his head, then his eyes widened. Rumors had reached the dwarves of Rhun about one such member of the royal family who was not of their people...a she-elf...specifically...a she-elf who was favored by their creator...and bares his mark as proof. "It is true then? There's an elf in the royal family? Or...are dwarves bein' taken."

"No. As far as we know, our people are not being targeted. And yes, my sister is among the elvinkind."

"And is..." Portok lifted his hand, pointing to his wrist. "...is it true...about the mark?" He whispered. "The mark of our maker? On her, and on her children?"

Fili sighed. "That is true as well." He paused and amended. "Well…mostly true. Only my eldest nephew bares the mark. The others do not."

Portok nodded, amazed. He would not ask more, it was not his business and he refused to be labeled as a petty gossiping hen. He was honestly surprised his prince answered as much as he had, for dwarves, were fiercely protective of dwarflings and any information about them. Though, he doubted even if he asked, that he would get much more out of the crowned prince anyway.

"Makers hammer." Portok said in awe. "I'd give me beard teh meet her." He shook his head. "Marked by the maker, she mus' be one special elf."

"One of a kind, and very special." Fili agreed with pride. He loved Tauriel, even if he was very near lobbing all her pretty red hair off for putting him in this situation. If only his brother would not remove his head from his shoulders for even thinking such a thing though. Kili loves Tauriel's hair, and barely tolerates her even trimming it. Which she does, to his brother's utter distain which seemed to only amuse Tauriel more than anything. "How about, when I return, I bring her with me if she is up for it."

Portok nodded, excitement in his dark eyes. "I'd be honored, deeply. How are yeh goin' ta find her though? Did no' you say she was taken?"

"Oh, I will find her. If I have to pick through every pile of sand in these lands to do so. She means everything to our family."

"She must." Portock nodded. "If yeh are out here ta find her on yer own." The dwarf looked to the map, pointing to an open corner. "If I were ta pick one place all know never teh go...it would be here. It is out of bounds fer all dwarves in these lands laddie, and humans call it cursed an won' even speak of it. Some say, the lands are sick from the first great war, bu' it's rumored teh be jus' a ruin. I 'eard the elves took it, but others claim it is dwarflands. Rubbish talk, it aint. But for whatever reason, no one seems teh know fer certain, and no soul I know is stupid enough teh go to see it fer themselves."

"Why?" Fili asked as he searched the map for paths to this blank portion of the map.

"Because, ain't nobody has a death wish." Portok said seriously. "If yer thinkin' of goin there, yeh should know even the path is a dead dwarf's walk. The deep sands are the ruin's borders an' little few can survive it...no' humans, no' dwarves, and no' even elves. If the heat don' take yeh, ye would die of thirst before yeh make it half way through. I am told tha' it is also the home of wereworms. If tha' be the truth...one wrong step, and yer worm food."

Fili blinked, then shrugged. "Worms? Huh. I've been through worse." He hummed and mentally marked the map not wanting to change it in any way so Portok gets it back as it is. If the ruin wasn't marked, then there likely was a reason for that.

"I don' know if I should be impressed by yer courage...or worried fer yeh." Portok said, eyeing Fili with both awe...and a bit of concern. "I take it nothin' I can say would convince yeh to stay here until one o' the merchant groups come from the mountain so yeh can have back up?"

Fili shook his head no. "I can't delay my travels any more. I am already further from my sister than I want to be."

"Aye. I understand." The smith hummed then nodded.

"I cannot portray my gratitude Portok." Fili held his hand out, the dwarf clasping it tightly. "It will never be forgotten."

Portok smiled grimly. "Take care of yerself. I will be lookin' forward to yer return."

Fili nodded and with a respectful bow of his head, he ducked out of the stand, his new blade at his side and the map carefully tucked in his pockets.

With the coin he received for his blades, Fili was able to secure himself some food, and a rather sad looking mule who seemed to be on his last leg if you asked Fili. "You have no other mounts?" The dwarvin prince asked looking at the sandy brown creature who was both fat, and bony at the same time.

"Nope." The man grunted. "Unless yeh want to ride the pig. Migh' be more yer size anyway. Yer small enough fer em, aren't yeh?" He laughed a deep mirth filled laugh, shaking his head as he tossed Fili's silver up in the air, whistling to himself as he walked away without even giving Fili the chance to ask for his coin back.

Fili was both incensed and insulted as he looked at the small pigs, which were a quarter of the size of Dain's boar. He wanted nothing more than to march over and give his new blade a chance to sing...but shook his head and reined in his temper. He needed to stay inconspicuous...and causing a fight would be a good way to get attention he certainly didn't need.

"Small." Fili grunted, glaring at the man who was smoking as he sat on a stool, counting the silver in his dirty hand. Smoking...around dry hay...in a dry environment filled with dead brush. What an idiot. First off, let it be known that the man wasn't even a head taller than Fili. Second of all...Fili looked to the swaying mule...he doubts this animal will survive a mile let alone where he plans on going.

Shaking his head again, Fili dusted off the old saddle and placed it on the old creature. By some miracle, it actually fit the beast to which Fili was quite grateful for. If he HAD to, he would have rode bareback...but Fili hated riding with out a saddle and he was happy he would not have to.

Glancing at the mule, Fili could not help but pause as he looked across the sands. He has a long way to go if he calculated the distance correctly. Please, please be the correct location. He didn't have time to traverse all of Rhun if he was wrong. Fili doesn't know what they are doing to the elves, and he was not about to lose his sister. Not now, not ever.

Fili was about to pull himself up on the clearly dying Mule, when the hairs on the back of his neck rose and his instincts had him looking once more across the sands where a tree long dead rose high. Fili squinted in the bright sun, trying to figure out why all of his senses had him on high alert. He was about to shake the feeling away when he noticed a glowing pair of eyes focused right at him. "What…" Fili was about to ask when the creature stepped out of the shadows. It was the shaggiest warg Fili had ever seen. It was small, even from this distance…clearly not full grown but not quite a pup either. The beast stared at Fili for a few minutes, it's head low and cocked to the side, before it shook its head and scampered off into the sun.

"Yeh need to borrow the stool teh get up, dwarf?" The man shouted at Fili, laughing so hard he fell to the ground, his pipe slipping from his fingers and immediately lighting the pile of hay beside him. Cursing, he jumped to his feet and began uselessly stamping out the growing flames.

"Great Mahal above, these humans are useless." Fili growled low and quickly grabbed a bucket, filling it with water from the troth, then throwing it over the flames. The ground hissed and cracked as the fire turned to smoke and steam. He filled the pale again, and threw it once more just to ensure the embers were fully out, then perhaps a bit out of frustration, and a bit for his own amusement, he threw a third pail of water at the man who spit and sputtered curses at Fili.

Deciding any further words he would say could end up causing him to straight kill the man, Fili easily pulled himself up on the mule and kicked him into a canter. "Tauriel, you owe me." He muttered to himself as he made his way to the blank point in the map he was warned, would be his end. He glanced in the direction of the warg, but it was gone. Hopefully, it wasn't targeting him as some sort of meal. If it was, Fili will take care of it if he had to, but for now, it was not worth his time as he moved towards a land that looked completely void of life.

Above him Kaw flew, a dark beacon among the endlessly blue sky. He swooped down now and again, flying circles around Fili before he flew back up to likely scope out the lands from above. All Fili could do, was keep going forward in the direction he believed was right. Mahal guide him, he prayed, as he hopefully headed towards his sister.

Kili cursed, pulling his boot out of the sticky mud as he guided Maryn through the murky waters of Mirkwood's 'enchanted' stream. He glared at Legolas's back, annoyed he had to walk through the waters he was told to stay out of multiple times, all for the sake of safety. He was tired, exhausted really, but his mind was thankfully clear of the fog he remembers overtook him and the company two decades ago. Naurfaer said he had his bond to thank for that.

The elves were impervious to the waters, and because Kili was so connected to an elf, whatever magic protected the eldar, also seemed to be protecting Kili now that he and Tauriel's bond was complete. In short, Tauriel's mind was, in a way, protecting him and keeping him from fully succumbing to the enchantments as most mortals would. Well...mostly. Kili was bone tired…but his mind was clear so he doubted it had anything to do with the enchantments around him.

To make matters worse, Gandalf had abandoned them in the woods…again! Two lifetimes, two necessary life threatening journeys through the woods, twice being left by the wizard. His excuse, he wanted to quickly ride to Beorn's home to see if the shapeshifter knew of the situation involving the elves, and if he did, see if he knew anything they did not. When Kili voiced his concern about the wizard going off alone, Gandalf only chuckled, patted Kili on the shoulder, then said he could take care of himself and that it was important they keep going forward.

Gandalf promised to meet them before they entered Lothlorien but thought it was best Legolas and Naurfaer not spend more time in the wood than absolutely necessary. It was why he didn't suggest they all go to see Beorn together. He was the one, however, to suggest walking in the waters once they realized Kili was not overly affected...to help keep them from being tracked.

The exhaustion Kili did feel, Naurfaer said, was more likely his lack of sleep than the waters. Since Kili felt no draw to them nor was he hallucinating in any way, he should be fine. So they bid the wizard goodbye and waded their way into the shallower edges of the enchanted waters and that is the path they have been taking since.

"Are you alright, Kili?"

From behind the dwarven prince, Kili could just see Naurfaer guiding Galaddal who had his head low as Naurfaer led him through the water as easily as if he was guiding him on a stone path. Infuriating elf. Great fiery forge of the maker...he was starting to sound like his uncle in his mind.

"I don't understand why we have to go to Lorien. It's out of our way. If we just took the river east from Erebor, we could get right to Rhun." Kili finally huffed, frustrated by both the muddy waters, and the fact he just learned that Lothlorien, the lands of an elven queen, were not on their way to Rhun. In fact, it is opposite of their destination, and will add unnecessary time to their trip. He hated that he was moving away from Tauriel, and not towards her.

"I know you want to find Tauriel, Kili." Naurfaer said. "Believe me, I do too. But we need information, and Galadriel has a way of knowing things that may give us the edge. I hope."

"How, exactly?" Kili grunted, his boot stuck in a particularly deep part of the water. He pulled and pulled but only ended up getting himself more stuck. Kakhuf. He yelped as he lost his balance and toppled onto his bottom in the shallows of the stream...his foot slipping from his boot which had Kili curse again. It was one thing to have his shoes in the mud...but now his bared foot was exposed to the sticky, thick, mud as well. This was miserable.

"Stop struggling, and you will be released." Legolas said calmly, looking back at the struggling dwarf who was cursing loudly in both khuzdul and sindarin now.

"Easy for both of you to say, I have seen how you walk ON TOP of snow. I am rather surprised you are not walking on top of water."

Naurfaer rolled his eyes at the dwarf he loved like a grandson. The dwarf his granddaughter chose to give up her immortality for; the dwarf she bound herself deeply with. Sometimes, he wanted to resent Kili for Tauriel's choice. He understood why Manwe allowed it, and he appreciated Aule for the protection he now offers her.

But Valar help him, he could have had a life with his granddaughter. The child of his little girl, his Ithildin. The child, he abandoned, he reminded himself. It mattered not if he had done it knowingly or not, nor did it matter that he did so to go after the orcs who slayed his child. At the end of the day, Naurfaer made a choice…and his choice was not Tauriel. No, he chose to hand her to a stranger thinking he could have both his grandchild and his revenge. But how wrong he was. Upon his return, without seeking proof, Naurfaer accepted their word when he was told none lived. He abandoned Tauriel to a fate that broke her in so many ways and for what? So he could shed blood. It should have been him to go with her to see that she was cared for as an infant, it should have been him who came to her rescue, it should have been him to raise Tauriel…but he was too late and instead a dwarf came and saved her…doing what he did not. It had been Kili who has pieced her back together...not him…and because of that, she threw away her immortality for her mortal savior. It was not fair, and it hurt far more than it should.

Naurfaer sighed, putting on his trademark smile and shaking the negative thoughts from his head. What was he saying? He loved Kili. How could he not? Despite the young prince being exactly what he was, a dwarf through and through, a mortal being, there was something endearing about his nature, magnetizing, and charming. He was both gruff, and gentle, kind, and firm, compassionate, and wary. He withstood tests even some of the strongest elves Naurfaer had known, would not have survived or been able to come back from. If there was any being in middle earth Naurfaer would think was good enough for his grandchild, it was Kili. And fine, the circumstances in which Tauriel sacrificed her immortality was not normal…and she did it for an entire family and likely hundreds of innocent lives who would have otherwise been killed…so it was not JUST for Kili she had done what she did. But even if it was, Naurfaer was reluctant to say, Kili would have more than been deserving of such a gift.

Yet here, practically throwing a tantrum in the mud that rivaled a dwarfling not getting their way, was a dwarf who had every right to be solemn, pessimistic, and cold for what he has been through. Yet instead, he still held hope that burned as bright as the sun…usually. He was an exemplary husband, father, and friend.

Even if he was now sitting in the water that went to his chest looking far too much like Finli did when he used to throw fits. Rather than being put off by it, instead, it had Naurfaer laughing loudly, while Legolas scowled.

"Why don't we just march across the forest main path playing fiddles and drums." The elven prince folded his arms. "I am fascinated, at how despite being bonded and married to an elf for two decades...you have not taken on a single elven trait. Such as learning the art of peace and patience."

Kili huffed, still tugging on his boot currently hidden under the water. "She bonded to ME, Legolas, if you want to be technical...so wouldn't it be far more likely Tauriel adopted dwarven traits, rather than the other way around?"

"She does keep bearing dwarven offspring." Legolas hummed, flicking away a piece of mud Kili slung at him by accident...or not...as Kili got back to his feet, grumbling when his unbooted foot squelched in the mud as he continued working fruitlessly to get his boot free.

Kili HATED his feet being bared to the elements. Not to mention, now that he was wet...the winter air was starting to bite and he began to shiver as his internal furnace worked to warm his body up. But it didn't need to work too hard, as the words the elven prince said had Kili nearly at boiling point. "Those are my children you are referring to, Legolas. I would appreciate you either change your attitude, or hold your tongue." Kili stopped and growled, a deep true sound from his chest that had even Legolas pausing and rethinking his words.

Rolling his eyes, Legolas quietly waited as Kili gave one final tug, a squelching, sucking sound followed by a pop, had the dwarven prince toppling back as his shoe came free with so much force, it flew through the air, hit a tree, then fell back into the stream spraying the dark water all over Legolas.

Umyra, who had been in the tree the boot hit, let out a surprised croak and began circling the area, cawing and crowing angrily as Naurfaer was again laughing brightly at his grandson who was cursing as he sat in the water now soaked from head to toe; his hair dripping wet and falling into his eyes.

Kili yelled out and with deep frustration, hit the water with his fist causing yet another spray of both mud and water to hit the elven prince all the while Naurfaer continued to laugh at both Kili and Legolas who was scowling.

"HUSH!" Legolas admonished them both. "Honestly, one would think YOU, Naurfaer, were a dwarf as well with how irreverent you are being."

"They do have more fun." Naurfaer shrugged and dropped Galaddal's reins to finally help Kili. He smirked as Kili let out a few more expletives in his people's tongue that Naurfaer knew, without a doubt, would have Dis lecturing her adult son an entire evening for. "Such vulgar words for a prince. Your mother would be ashamed." He tsked at Kili, who turned dark, daring eyes at the elf.

"Don't lecture me, Naurfaer." Kili warned as he forced his very wet, and equally squishy boot onto his foot, finally using Maryn to keep his balance. "I cannot be responsible for killing you. Not right now." Mahal forgive him, he has had two hours of sleep in three days, his wife, his world, was who knows where AND unconscious, and the only other being who had the ability to distract him, his brother, was off on his own and HOPEFULLY not getting himself into trouble or caught. He was a bit on edge with nothing to soothe the Durin temper that burned in his veins and roared for his mate.

Not to mention, Kili was now covered in mud and water that were enchanted and doing who knows what to his system, which was only fighting it because of Tauriel. Give him a battle, send him some spiders, some orcs, anything! He needed, NEEDED to expel some of his energy, some of his rage, before he did or said something he would deeply regret.

"Kili." Naurfaer said gently, seeing Kili ready to break. He was no Tauriel, but he lived with this dwarf, he knew him and was worried for his well being. The last thing they needed right now, was for Kili to have a mental breakdown. "Take a breath, Kili. I know she isn't responding, but Tauriel is still there, still with you. She needs you to calm down, and stay focused."

"ON WHAT!" Kili roared, not caring at all if he drew the attention of the enemy. Let them come. Let him draw his sword, his bow. Let this water run with their blood. They took his mate, they took her from him, and he will pull this world apart to get to her. He will KILL any who tried to stop him, friend or foe.

"Kili!" Naurfaer grasped Kili's shoulders tightly. "I know this is hard for you, but we cannot afford to risk drawing the enemy towards us. We do not have enough among us to take them, as strong and skilled as we are. Not only could we be underestimating our current advantage, we would be delaying our journey just that much longer if we have to go on yet another rescue mission. Think about your sons, your daughter. Two of them are still rather connected to you and Tauriel. They need you to be strong; Tauriel, needs you to be strong. So be the dwarf I know you are, Kili, be the rock for your family, be the strength." Naurfaer saw the fight in his dark eyes and shook his head. "Strength doesn't always entail battle Kili, sometimes, strength is quiet. Sometimes, strength is in the shadows, in the peace."

Legolas watched silently, watched as Kili deflated a bit and nodded. He then called for his white raven who at first, was reluctant to come down, but then to their surprise, did as she was bid and perched on Kili's shoulder…pulling bits of mud and debris out of his hair as Kili grabbed his horses reins and looked to Legolas expectantly. "Well? We should get going before the horses get stuck. I don't feel like adding more time getting Maryn re-shoed if she loses one in this muck."

Legolas lifted a brow at the tone, but chose not to comment. It would be a mighty miracle if they made it out of these woods alive, between Kili's temper tantrums, and his dwarven nature that had even his footsteps in the mud echo through the wood. What did Tauriel see in these dwarves? Particularly, this one, who was no doubt going to either get them killed, or require Legolas to save his life...which he would do if he had to for Tauriel, and Tauriel alone.

Kili wiped his face, only to get more mud on it and cursed to himself yet again. He looked behind him to see Naurfaer grinning wide, then looked ahead to see Legolas walking with his full attention back on his path forward through the water..though Kili could tell his posture was stiff. "He's mad at me isn't he?" Kili said after a moment of studying Legolas. He had the same exact rigidness to his spine that Tauriel did when she was irritated with him.

Naurfaer shrugged. "He's Thranduil's son…your probably among a rather long list of things that are irritating him."

"Oh. I imagine." Kili smirked as Legolas took the bate and glared at both he and Naurfaer.

"I…am simply trying to not draw attention of the enemy and get us killed. While YOU are louder than fighting stags during rutting season."

Kili blinked. "Well, that was crude."

"Says the dwarf." Legolas shot back.

Kili's eyes narrowed and darkened. Legolas has never held such things against him that he knew of. In fact, he has always been both kind and respectful to Kili and his family. That comment paired with the earlier dig on his 'dwarven offspring' had Kili wondering whether Legolas liked them at all. Yet, he has not missed a single one of Tauriel's pre-birth showers, and even sends gifts to the children for their birthdays and the holidays...his children who consider him to be like another uncle, distantly. Since he was the closest thing to family in Mirkwood, Tauriel wanted her children to have a relationship with the elven prince and Legolas always seemed to feel likewise.

But Kili wonders, if it was all a front. Take Tauriel out of the dynamic, and all that is left, is a dwarf…a dwarf related to the family Legolas's father has hated for nearly two centuries. A family the elven king resented for robbing him of jewels commissioned for his late wife leading to them slighting the dwarven people and refusing to offer them aid in likely the most horrific time in their history...when dams, dwarves, and dwarflings alike were burned and eaten alive by that dragon. Needless to say, there were many wrongs done, on both sides, even before Smaug came.

But things were supposed to be different now, they had peace, but maybe…deep down…there will always be some old prejudices remaining. Kili just hoped those prejudices will not be held against his sons, or his daughter, because if he ever even gets a HINT that Legolas or anyone in Mirkwood makes them feel lesser for who or what they are, he will remove them from their life completely. Kili couldn't go back and save Tauriel from the unhealing scars she received from the elves in the woodland realm, but he can protect his children from similar treatment, and he will.

Deciding he had nothing to say to the quiet elf in front of him, Kili decided to turn his attention back to the walk through the mud. Legolas can stew quietly all he wants; Kili doesn't control him. But he can do what he could to not exacerbate the situation further, so he let the elf be and the group quietly continued their journey.

Perhaps it was Mahal protecting them, or shear luck, but they made it to the end of the forest with no further incidents. Kili kept sending Umyra out to scan ahead, and she would report back the all clear and they would move forward. Only once, did she bring news of strangers in the wood, and they changed their path to give them wide birth.

Finally, they stepped out of the line of trees and Kili realized the heaviness he had been feeling since they left the elven city had almost instantly dissipated from his shoulders. He closed his eyes, filling his lungs with what felt like clean, fresh, air. It was cold, bitingly so, but he was happy to be out of the wood...it was starting to feel like he would be in there for eternity.

"We take the path south to the ancient wood. We should reach Lothlorien by nightfall if we move quickly." Legolas said from the top of his mare.

Kili nodded, but still remained silent and instead pulled himself up onto his horse, and kicked Maryn into a run, needing to feel the wind; hoping it would wake him up, hoping it would clear his mind. It did help, if only a little, but they didn't make it to this supposed ancient forest before the sky darkened and the horses slowed to just a walk. The trudging through the mud had likely taken too much out of them, so the group was forced to stop and camp, if only for the sake of the horses.

Kili cleared some snow off a log and sat, staring up at the clear sky, counting the stars and mentally telling Tauriel about the view here. She was still asleep, or unconscious, but she was there. He just couldn't communicate with her. But here, as he looked at the stars…it felt…as if she were closer to him…as if she sat just beside him.

I love you, my Kili.

I love you, my Tauriel. Amralime.

His mind warmed despite not actually hearing the words from her. Still, he knew she really was there, with him, as she always was and always will be.

"I am sorry."

Kili didn't even turn his attention from the sky when another elf took the spot beside him, where Tauriel would have been had she been here.

"I fear, I have not been myself these last few days, and I have taken that out on you." Legolas sighed. "I have said some, unwise and cold words to you and I meant none of them."

"Are you apologizing because you are truly feeling guilty…" Kili said, eyes still reflecting the stars above. "…or are you afraid my wife will gut you if you don't try and make amends."

Legolas's lips stretched into a thin line.

"The second one then." Kili chuckled darkly. "Its fine. I won't tell." He tapped his temple finally looking to Legolas. "She's asleep, so she doesn't know, and I will keep it that way. If she finds out, it won't be from me."

Legolas gave him a look as Kili nudged his head to Naurfaer. "Can't speak for him though. He tends to blab, and does as he pleases."

"Always have, always will." Naurfaer said, using his blade to clean the mud from under his nails.

Legolas sighed. "I am sorry, Kili. My apology has nothing to do with Tauriel. I should not have been so insulting towards you or your children, especially now. I know you are distracted."

Kili didn't say anything, instead, he turned his eyes back to the stars. "Tauriel says starlight is like memory. Warm, and beautiful. Before she came into my life, I always thought it to be cold. Distant. I thought the same of elves once. But I have since learned my perception was quite far off. I wonder, prince Legolas, if you believe all dwarves to be irreverent, loud, and foolish."

"Once, I did." Legolas agreed, noting Kili's eyes flicking to him before looking back up at the bright stars. "I believed as my father and my elders taught, and the few dwarves I met, did little to dispel that notion. I had no other way to base my opinion but from my own experiences and those shared with me. At least, until your lot came to my forest."

Kili chuckled shaking his head. "One would think we only solidified such an opinion."

Legolas shrugged. "Some did. But you, you were different. You spoke to me with respect, and told me about Tauriel, not having ever met me before."

Ah, that's right. When it came to his time spent in Mirkwood's dungeons, Kili's mind came up with two memories. One with a beautiful eleth with long hair the color of burning coals in the forges fire, herding him to a cell. He made a cheeky comment about searching him, and she gave it right back. This memory, belonged to he and Tauriel alone. But the second memory, the darker one, was the one where Kili had no fight left in him. He had lost his one, his mate, and he mourned her with all that he was.

"She cared about you." Kili said softly. "I thought, you would want to know, to honor her memory."

Tauriel is alive. She is there, in your mind, asleep but very much alive. Kili kept telling himself, doing his best to keep the darkness at bay.

"I care about her deeply. But I never thanked you for the kindness, I am sure it was…difficult…for you. I do not doubt you were suffering greatly. So, thank you." The elven prince said softly.

"Well." Kili said, stretching his legs out while trying to ignore the discomfort the drying mud brought to him or the cold air that had him rubbing his hands and blowing on them in an attempt to keep them warm. "There is no need to thank me, because, I was clearly wrong as Tauriel is very much alive...if my five children are anything to go by." He then pressed a finger to his temple again. "The bond helps remind me of that too."

"What does it feel like? Being bonded to her, to Tauriel?" Legolas asked after a minute, his cheeks going pink as he began apologizing immediately. Elves considered bonds to be a very intimate subject, never to be mentioned or asked about in casual conversation...and never between anyone but the bonded pair themselves.

Tauriel had explained to Kili that it was the equivalent of asking details about marital bedroom activities…heavy details. Honestly, Kili found it more amusing than anything, seeing Legolas so flustered. He understands though. "Not sure I can describe it really. She is just, there." He really was not comfortable going into details, because, though it did not embarrass him in any way, it was still sacred to him. A special gift, for he and his wife, something…well…for lack of a better word, intimate. He supposes Tauriel's explanation of why elves do not speak about it among each other, does in fact make sense now.

"Did you ever love her?" Kili finally asked the question he always wanted to ask...but also never wanted to know the answer too. The elf beside him gave him a curious look and Kili cleared his throat and amended, "Were you IN love with her, I mean."

"My father thought so." Legolas said, smiling softly. Twenty years, and not once had Kili ever asked him such a thing. Maybe he was afraid to ask, or, maybe he only just now wondered. The pair sat in silence, Legolas not fully answering for nearly an hour. As he contemplated the question, he passed some food to Kili and Naurfaer, who naturally seemed interested in the conversation though he didn't make any comments himself.

Finally, after eating, Legolas looked at Kili and gave his answer. "No." He said. "Do not mistake me, I do love Tauriel. I did my best to shield her whenever I was present when others did not have her best interests at heart. I wish, now, that I had been better at it, that I had seen who she could have blossomed into. She shines now, Kili, like the brightest stars above. You did that for her, and I could not. So no, I am not, nor have I ever been, in love with Tauriel. You were the one to fight for her, you were the one to heal her when I had been blind to her wounds, and you are the one she chose over her own people. Do I understand it? No. Yet I will honor her decision. Even if, I think she has lost her mind in choosing a dwarf to mate with."

When Kili bristled, Legolas laughed softly. "You make beautiful children though, you and Tauriel. Please forgive my cruel words earlier. They are truly perfect. I would not change them in any way, Kili."

A smile, a broad warm smile, finally blossomed across Kili's face. "Even if they are dwarves?" He asked, though there was no mirth or bite to his words.

"Part dwarves." Legolas said, but nodded.

"Mostly dwarves." Naurfaer unhelpfully added, from across them. "Kili you should get some sleep. You look about to fall over and the last thing we need is for you to get injured because your body is shutting down. I know you have not been sleeping as you should."

As if to prove Naurfaer's point, Kili yawned. "I'm fine." He tried. "It's probably that stream of yours. Why is it enchanted anyway?"

Legolas shrugged. "I am afraid I could not say. It has been like that since before I came to being…so you would have to ask my father. If it is the stream though, we will monitor you to ensure you rise."

"That's comforting." Kili grunted and stood, moving to sit back against a large tree Umyra was resting in. Even without leaves, the branches where thick enough to shade the ground, keeping it free of the thick snows blanketing everywhere else. There was no fire, for safety reasons, and the air was cold and biting. But it didn't bother Kili too much, though he did accept a blanket from Naurfaer.

"The last thing we need is for you to freeze." He had said. Kili rolled his eyes, but accepted it. He had not wanted to get mud on any of the bedding and was willing to suffer through the night...but he now saw that as a foolish endeavor...as his wife would put it.

Wrapping the blanket tightly around him, Kili closed his eyes, falling almost instantly to sleep. His dreams of course were filled with Tauriel. They spoke, like they did the night before, but briefly. Neither had new news for the other outside Kili telling her he was on his way, though Tauriel seemed to be jealous Kili would get to see Lothlorien without her. He promised to bring her there when it was safe.

The rest of the dream, they just held each other, each needing comfort from their one. Kili didn't know how long it would be before he found her, and Tauriel didn't know when she would be rising from this induced slumber…or if she would even remember their conversations once she did wake. It saddened her, but she said regardless if she remembered or not, she knew he was coming and that was enough for her. As he woke, he could still hear her words of love in his ear, mixed with his promise that he will find her, that he will be there as soon as he can.

The sun had not even risen, when Kili woke to Legolas and Naurfaer talking to Gandalf. So he did decide to rejoin them? As Kili stood, he grunted at the stiffness in his back. It had been way too long since he has slept in anything but a bed or a comfortable chair, and he was feeling it. Rubbing the ache out, Kili moved to join the conversation, but it seemed mostly over.

"Ah, Kili. Good. We were just about to wake you." Gandalf said, puffing away at his pipe and handing Kili a bit of lembas bread to eat. "You slept well, I trust?"

"Any news?" Naurfaer immediately asked his grandson before he could answer Gandalf.

"No." Kili sighed as he broke a piece of lembas bread off and tossed it up to Umyra. He knew what Naurfaer was actually asking, he wanted to know if Tauriel had told him anything new…but as she had not woken yet, there was nothing new to report. However, Kili did feel refreshed, renewed, and revitalized. He really did need the sleep, and to see his one. Even if it was only in their minds while he dreams. It was real enough to him. But nothing, nothing can ever take the place of truly being with Tauriel, to really hold her, feel her heartbeat in tandem...in perfect sync...with his own. He needed to get her back. He needed her. "I slept very well, thank you Gandalf. Any news from Beorn?"

"Not anything helpful I am afraid." The grey wizard shook his head. "He was not in the mood to entertain guests, but did say he was aware of the situation and willing to assist to protect his land, though only if necessary. Although…he was quite taken aback to learn there were Nazgul here...and I fear it had more of an adverse affect on his desire to intervene. He said only fools with wishes of death confronts a Nazgul." Gandalf puffed in frustration. "I cannot say I disagree...but we are running out of time to sit and be idle in this age. We must accept we may have to start being proactive in this fight, or we can never hope to survive what is to come."

Kili is glad they were not forced to go with the wizard if it was a useless endeavor, it sounded like it was nothing but a waste of time and energy. Not that he disliked Beorn, quite the contrary; rather, he was just eager to get to his wife. "Right, proactive. On that note...I think we should get going." He sighed, moving to place the saddle back on Maryn. He pulled out an apple from her saddlebags and fed it to her, brushing a stray bit of mud from her midnight mane. Kili smiled when she nuzzled him affectionately, his beloved Maryn.

Since there was no fire, and nobody pulled out bedrolls, there really was nothing to pack up except for the blanket Kili tried to give back to Naurfaer...but he just told him to shove it in one of the saddle bags as it was covered in dirt now. It was why Kili had not pulled one out to begin with...as he didn't feel like having to deal with filthy bedding on the road. He turned to apologize to Naurfaer, but his wife's grandfather just waived him off.

"I will get a new one in Lothlorien, Kili. Don't worry about it. It's not like I need anywhere near as much sleep as you do...so I doubt I will be using one as much anyway."

Kili sighed again, but nodded, shoving the soiled blanket into Maryn's saddle bags before he pulled himself up and nodded to the group he was ready. Before the dawn fully arrived, they were off, galloping with haste to the forest of Lothlorien. It was a quiet, uneventful trip until they reached the forest when the group slowed to a stop. "We walk from here." Gandalf ordered as he dismounted.

Kili looked around at the tall trees, and felt a shiver run down his back. This place felt, odd, but not in an uncomfortable way. It felt...well…like home…but also like he was trespassing...which technically speaking...they were. Hopefully they receive a better reception than he received his first...and second...time in Mirkwood.

Kili looked around the group, but nobody seemed worried so he sighed and kept walking. His focus, though, remained on the massive trees around him. He could swear he saw movement high up in one, and considering he is married to a wood elf who loves nothing more than being up in a tree...he should not be surprised if the elves of Lothlorien would see the approaching group far earlier then they could see them if they were up there.

"Halt."

Kili froze, just as the others did. He looked around, trying to pin down the voice that seemed to be coming from, of course, the trees, just as he suspected. Again, Kili was not surprised in the least, neither did he have to wait long before an elf jumped before them, causing Maryn to rear up angrily.

"Shhh, Maryn. Shhh." Kili pulled her reins, still grasping onto them so she couldn't get free...he was not in the mood to chase her down if she pulled away. He didn't bother moving, because he knew she would not harm him. Eventually, she dropped to the ground, calming with Kili's soothing words.

"Mithrandir. My lady did not say you were expected, and prince Legolas of the woodland realm; it is a surprise to see you here." The elf bowed respectfully, ignoring Kili who was whispering soft words to his horse. He then smiled at Naurfaer who walked up and grasped the elf's hand tightly.

"Haldir!" Naurfaer smiled wide. "It is good to see you my dear friend, truly. You look well. I see you got that promotion. It is well earned."

The elf, Haldir, bowed his head in gratitude. "It was a true honor to be presented the opportunity, Naurfaer. May I ask, what brings you all to Lothlorien?"

"We wish to have an audience with your great lady, Haldir." Gandalf said with a small smile.

"The lady Galadriel said you are always welcome here, Mithrandir, you as well Naurfaer. And I am sure she would be rather surprised to see you, Legolas. It has been sometime since one of the royal family of Mirkwood steps beyond their borders. Curious, it is now in these dangerous times that you choose to wander the woods. And with a dwarf, no less. You are aware, Mithrandir, dwarves are not to enter these woods."

Kili scowled. Before he opened his mouth though, Gandalf's hand was resting on his shoulder. "Oh, but this is a special circumstance, Haldir. May I introduce, prince Kili of Erebor, second nephew to high king Thorin. His elder brother is heir to the throne and next in line to be king."

Haldir didn't bow, nor did he say much outside looking Kili up and down. "Our rules are in place for a reason, Mithrandir. Not since the days of Moria, have dwarves been welcome so close to our lady's city."

"Perhaps, an exception can be made for today." Gandalf said, his hand still on Kili's shoulder. Likely to keep him from doing or saying something rash.

"No exceptions." Haldir said with finality. Kili just watched and listened, trying not to be offended by the slight, and being talked about without even the respect of being addressed. Furthermore, the entire exchange, from the moment he began to speak, was in the elven language, Sindarin. So he knew exactly what was being said but he also knew he likely chose to speak in the elven tongue to exclude him...thinking he couldn't understand.

"I am bonded to an elf." Kili stepped away from Gandalf, interrupting whatever was about to be said. "My wife, is Tauriel, a former captain of the woodland realm. Her mother is the daughter of Naurfaer, so he can vouch for my honesty. I am here, because she was taken from me, stolen from the woods we entered only to aid the elven people. The dangers out there, took her from me just as they are taking your own people. The only reason I am here is because they believe your lady may have some insight in what is going on. Please. I swear to you, I am no threat, I just...I just need to find my wife."

His words were spoken in perfect Sindarin; so perfectly, he sounded like a native speaker and Haldir could not hide the surprise in his expression. He looked Kili up and down again. Kili knew he looked like a wild thing, covered in mud that had flaked off in patches both as he slept the night before, and while he rode. He used a bit of water from his drinking bladder to clear his face of the filth before he slept the night before, but he doubted it was truly clean. He certainly didn't look like a high prince in any respect at the moment, and tried not to shift under the elf's gaze.

"He speaks the truth, Haldir." Naurfaer confirmed. "Tauriel is my granddaughter, and she is married and bonded to this dwarf…fully. I accepted him into my family, as he has accepted both me and Tauriel. I take full accountability for him, but I don't think he will need it."

Haldir just watched them, then, slowly, he nodded. "Very well. Follow me."

As they walked, Haldir fell into step beside Kili, his eyes judging him continuously. "Where did you learn to speak so fluently?"

"My wife. She taught both me, and my brother." Kili said. "We have taught our children Sindarin, and she also has begun to teach any interested in Erebor...there are quite a few who have taken up lessons. I believe my uncle has been working on making it a requirement for all dwarflings to learn the elven tongue, mostly to better our relationship with the woodland realm."

"Do you know…" Haldir said. "…there was a time when Sindarin was spoken widely by the dwarves. Most in Moria spoke the language fluently. Our relations required it, as it is forbidden for us to learn their language. Many saw it as admirable and a show of great respect, being able to converse in our native tongue. It also made things quite easier as far as communication goes, when both could understand one language rather than needing interpreters."

"We do speak common too you know." Kili switched to the common tongue and Haldir chuckled, the first sign of amusement he had seen in the elf.

They walked the rest of the way through the trees in silence. When they passed through the gates of the elven city, Kili was amazed at the beauty and the peace that came to him just by entering. Singing, soft and gentle as a summers breeze, seemed to come from every part of the city. Like Mirkwood, it was built among the trees, but unlike Mirkwood, whose structures blended with the forest, these structures were built AROUND the forest. The massive trees were the centerpieces of their architecture that rose high off the ground; the paths and buildings spiraling up the tall, thick, trunks all around him. Even the walkways on the ground seemed organic, though they were made of stone. As a dwarf, Kili was impressed by the craftsmanship of the paved paths.

It was also warmer than it had been outside the city gates…it was as if the city itself was heated like Erebor was, though perhaps not to the same extreme. Lothlorien, after all, was exposed to the outside air, while Erebor, their entire city, was encased within the mountain and protected from the elements. Therefore, it held heat far better than a forest city would. Kili also noticed the ground here was free of snow. Likely a mix between the warmed air, and the cover of the massive trees.

"Welcome to Lothlorien." Haldir said noting Kili's wonder. "You will be the first dwarf to enter our territory, for well over a thousand years, Prince Kili of Erebor. You should not take that lightly."

"Indeed, I do not." Kili said, awe still in his voice. "I am quite honored." He looked up at Haldir who nodded.

"This way. I will take you directly to my Lady."

They were led up a tree, winding around the massive trunk for what felt like miles. Kili was used to stairs, used to climbing endless corridors in the mountain, so he did not lose his breath as they continued to climb. Up and up they went, only stopping before four guards standing tall and still like stone sentries. Haldir whispered something to them, and they moved immediately.

Kili will never forget the moment he first met the elven queen as the group entered the throne room built as a centerpiece between four of the massive trees. It was impressive, and looked nothing like Kili had expected with its quarts floor that glimmered and glistened in the warm light coming from glass spheres encased in twisting vines surrounding the room. Large, oval mirrors between each orb of light made the room appear larger than it was, while several bubbling fountains pulled water likely from snows in the treetops down to the room.

The group crossed a small bridge as they entered and Kili looked down to see a narrow and shallow stream of water which appeared to come from the fountains, but flowed around the perimeter of the entire room to a drain of sorts where it emptied out of sight. He wondered if that water was used for something. In erebor, nothing goes to waste, everything has a purpose and a use, and Tauriel had said it was similar in Mirkwood. So Kili doesn't doubt there was a purpose for the water whether it be for agriculture, bathing, or drinking…or perhaps all three.

Kili didn't have a chance to ask, however, as they stepped before the tall Lady of Lothlorien. He blushes with embarrassment at how filthy he appeared, how un-princelike he was as he came before her immaculate presence. Some royal representative from Erebor he was. His mother would be boxing his ears if she saw the state he was in, and who he stood in front of.

"Mithrandir." The elven queen smiled, her being almost glowing as she spoke. Her eyes sparkled with true joy, it was clear she had a high opinion of the wizard. "It is truly a brighter day, to have you among us."

"My lady." Gandalf bowed. "I bring guests." He gestured to the group behind him and the elven queen's eyes lit up even more as she stepped down towards their group.

"Legolas. Is that you? I thought my eyes were being deceived." If possible, the elven queens smile widened.

"Indeed they were not." Legolas gave a small bow of his head. "How goes your kingdom?"

Galadriel looked at him steadily. "We fare as well as we can with the oncoming darkness already thrusting at our boarders." It looked as if she may say more, before her eyes fell on Naurfaer who grinned so wide, his face may split. "Lord Naurfaer." Galadriel bowed her head respectfully, though the elf rolled his eyes and huffed at the gesture…and the title.

"I think we can do away with the lord business." He lifted a brow. "I am no official lord as you well know. Just ask Thranduil. I am sure he would be quite pleased to explain to you, in detail, just how un-lordly I am."

The teasing smile on the elven queen's face made it clear, she knew what she was doing. "One can run from many things for many ages, Lord Naurfaer, but you cannot run for eternity. Eventually, you must accept what is inevitable, and what has been bestowed upon you."

Naurfaer rocked on his feet. "A lord, must have a people to lead, and I do not. Just because Manwe has seen it fit to claim I am some…apotheosis of authority…all because I have been here since Imin, Engel, and Tata, does not mean I accept such a title. And for your information, LADY Galadriel, I am not running. In fact, you would be surprised to note that I have, in fact, settled down. I found her Gala." Naurfaer smile turned soft. "I found my granddaughter, and she is very much alive."

"I believe congratulations are in order then." Galadriel called for some wine to be brought up. "I should like to meet her. With blood like yours in her veins, she must be a wonder to behold, Lord Naurfaer."

Naurfaer huffed at the title he hated but decided not to argue about it any further. Instead, it was Kili's voice that answered. "There is none like her in this world." The dark-haired prince said softly. "Her beauty is as ethereal as the stars, and her heart shines like the noonday sun."

Galadriel looked at Kili with interest. "I have never come across a dwarrow with such warm words for our kind. At least, not for a very long time."

"Kili is a wonder himself." Naurfaer said. "He and my granddaughter are wed."

"Dwarrow and eldar?" Galadriel's eyes widened but not in disgust, only curiosity. She looked at Kili...looked into Kili.

"A bonded pair. One of dwarrow kind, has successfully opened their mind to the eldar, and to our ways."

Kili stiffened, his mind had not heard the words per say, rather, it immediately flashed a the sensation of another entering his thoughts and whispering words only he was meant to hear. Intruder, his fragile mind roared. Intruder. Violator. Wrong. Wrong. Wrong. Not Tauriel. Not safe. An intruder. Unwelcome. Kili's mind rang with alarms like the great bells in Erebor, chiming warnings loudly into Kili's consciousness. Intruder. Violator. Threat.

Instinctively Kili's mind moved into immediate defense. Protect. It screamed. Protect. He slammed up walls as Tauriel had taught him to do if he ever felt mentally threatened. Thick walls of stone quickly rose to hide away his wife who could not protect herself right now; walls for his children whose life-forces thrummed like bright colors in his mind; walls for Ithtiri, whose mind was an open door to him, still relying on he and Tauriel for her needs; walls for Kilion who had yet to let go completely. Walls for his own mind, scarred and marred by the torture he endured for nine months of his life. Violator. Intruder. Wrong. Protect.

On the outside, Kili quickly turned almost feral. He gnashed his teeth and pulled his sword, roaring angrily. He looked, wild.

"Sheath your weapon you foolish dwarf." Gandalf growled while the guards around them moved into action to protect their lady. Haldir and several others pulled their bows, directing arrows right at Kili while the remaining guards had their weapons drawn.

But Kili didn't see any of it. His mind was a whirlwind of emotion as he threw all his focus on protecting his vulnerable family. Intruder. Violator. Protect.

Naurfaer's mind worked as he tried to figure out what was wrong with Kili. Had something happened to Tauriel? Were his children in danger? Being cautious, and knowing he was the only one fit to help his granddaughters husband, Naurfaer slowly edged in front of the volatile prince. Kili's chest took in gasps of air as his wild eyes shot around, as if he were searching, seeking, for an unseen enemy.

"Kili." Naurfaer said softly lifting a hand to Gandalf who took a step forward, his staff held tightly in his fist as if he would take the dwarf down himself. Naurfaer stepped in front of his grandson and gripped him by the shoulders, blocking him off from the wizard who was forced to step back and watch. "Has something happened to Tauriel? To Erebor?" If Kili knew or sensed something, they would leave, now.

Black eyes, not brown, met Naurfaer. He was so angry, so furious, the warm brown had deepened into two endless pools of raw fury. "GET OUT OF MY HEAD!" He yelled at no one in particular as he shook Naurfaer off.

"It was me." Galadriel said, surprising everyone. She lifted a hand to stop the guards with their blades drawn. They had been closing in on the wild dwarf, but one motion from her had them halting their movements…though their weapons remained at the ready. "I greeted his mind, and I fear I did so in error. I offer my greatest apologies." The elven queen said softly.

But Kili didn't hear her. He couldn't hear her. Violator. Intruder. Protect. He was shutting down, protecting his wife, protecting his children, protecting his mind.

Understanding hit Naurfaer like a heavy stone in the stomach. "Oh no." This was not good. Kili rarely had flashbacks or lashed out anymore, but on the rare occasion he did, Tauriel was the only one to be able to pull him from his free-fall into losing himself.

Naurfaer looked to Galadriel who was calm but had a look of deep regret on her face. "I sensed his abilities to share thoughts. I never would have if I knew it would disturb him so. It is a talent many have as you well know, but I would never use it to bring harm or pain."

"Valar." Naurfaer said. Legolas too, finally understanding the situation, gave Kili a look of worry and concern but remained quiet, knowing of all of them Tauriel's grandfather was best suited to handle this particular situation.

Naurfaer glanced from Kili to Galadriel. He knew she did nothing with intent to bring Kili any kind of pain, she just didn't know. So he stepped away from his grandson and leaned into the elven queen to whisper a hushed explanation. About how Kili was taken, how he was tortured, his mind, and his body. How after nine months of wearing a ring of power, he was rescued. He had fought that ring, fought its power, and was rewarded by losing all that he was. He was returned to his family, with no memory of his wife, no memory of his then infant son. But he fought still, and they got him back.

Galadriel's peaceful calm turned to one of near horror. An expression that should never be on that beautiful face. But before she could say anything, Naurfaer was walking away from her and approaching Kili once more.

"Kili, you are safe here. It was just a mistake, a simple misunderstanding. They are not back, and they cannot hurt you anymore. Our Tauriel made sure of that. Never again will they bring harm to another in this world, Kili. You are safe, your family is safe, of that I give you my word."

Naurfaer said it softly, edging closer to Kili whose wild eyes followed him. Naurfaer could see him trying to come back to himself; he could see Kili in those eyes as the brown fought the black for dominance, so he tried again. "You are safe Kili, I need you to trust me. I would never let any harm befall you. You are safe here."

Safe. Safe. Kili's mind tried to understand, but all it heard was the whispered voice of a stranger. Violated. His mind felt violated. Only Tauriel was allowed inside his mind. Only his children.

"Kili." Naurfaer tried again. "Lower your sword."

Safe. Kili's mind fought hard. Securing walls, building more. Intruder. Violator. Protect. Hold fast.

"My lady." Another guard ran up past Haldir, who had an arrow trained right at Kili's head. The dwarven prince was so lost inside himself, he likely didn't even know or care. "More dwarves have entered our border. They say they are looking to join their companions." The guard relayed, eyeing Haldir and the others with interest but not pulling his weapon to join them.

"How many?" Galadriel asked, her voice soft.

"Two."

"Let them up." She nodded her approval. If the guard disagreed, he didn't show his opinion, and instead spun on his feet and raced down the steps.

Violator. Intruder. Protect Tauriel. Protect the children.

Naurfaer was at a loss of what to do. He needed Tauriel here, or at least conscious. Even from where she was, she would be able to deal with this far better than anyone here. The only other option, was to somehow get Kili away from the situation without harming him too much, or triggering him to the point he begins swinging his sword…which would have Haldir release his arrow which was aimed to kill...and that was not an option. Naurfaer would step in front of that arrow before it hit Kili, not just because it would mean the death of his granddaughter, but because Naurfaer loved Kili just as much. He wouldn't lose either of them, which meant his best bet, would be knocking Kili out, rendering him unconscious to allow his mind to right itself. But Kili would be furious, and there was no guarantee it would work.

As Naurfaer continued to try and calm Kili, the guard had returned with indeed, two dwarves trailing just behind him; one hatted, and the other with a crown of blond waves on her head. Naurfaer narrowed his eyes at her as she approached where they stood. "Viltarra."

The dam nodded in greeting but her attention was directly on Kili. "What's happened?" She knew there wasn't a threat as neither Naurfaer nor Legolas were on their guard. Even Umyra was sitting on one of the vines just above them, trilling soothingly at Kili but not flying down or attacking. Still, the urge to pull her own blades was strong with so many weapons trained on her brother by marriage. She looked to Bofur who too seemed lost but quickly flanked his prince, though he was far more than confused as to why Kili had his blade drawn and a fighting expression on his face with no apparent threat.

"What has happened?" Viltarra asked again, looking at Naurfaer who sighed.

"The error was mine. I spoke to his mind." Galadriel said. "If I had thought it would have cause him such distress or harm, I never would have done it."

Viltarra cursed. Kili's mind had been shredded once. It was a miracle he ever came back to himself. This was certainly not what she expected to walk in on. She honestly had expected to have Kili and Naurfaer order her right back to Erebor the moment they laid eyes on her, not to see Kili like this.

"And you do nothing?" Viltarra glared at Naurfaer who lifted his hands.

"I have been trying."

Shaking her head, Viltarra ignored the sword and walked up to Kili. His eyes were unseeing, but open and clear at the same time. He saw everything and yet, nothing. She had seen him like this once before, and it was terrifying. It took Tauriel two hours to get him to calm down, and he wasn't himself until the next day. But Kili was her brother. Her family. And she would be damned if she let him lose himself when he was needed. All it took, was a gentle touch from Viltarra for Kili to snap; his eyes finally seeing the world around him.

"WHO?!" Kili roared looking over Viltarra's head. "WHO DARE WALK MY THOUGHTS?"

Galadriel stepped up beside Viltarra, completely unafraid of the wild and enraged dwarf. She never felt threatened by him, not once. Not with his sword drawn. Not with the feral look. Not with the furious roars.

"My error, has been great." Galadriel bowed her head. "I sensed your open mind, and before I even asked, I walked through the door. It is a skill I and many of our kind have, and one I use often but never with cruel intent. It is as common to me, as it is to speak as we are now. Only the eldar harness such a talent, and I was so surprised by your openness, I got a head of myself. I beg your forgiveness, Prince Kili, for I never meant harm from it."

"Violator." Kili growled almost inaudibly. It finally clicked in his mind that this may have simply been an error, but his walls remained a strong hold. Even as he worked to rein in his temper, his mind was a fortress, impenetrable and strong. His half wild eyes roved to Viltarra and he looked her up and down as if seeing her for the first time. "Viltarra…what…"

"I am here to help." Viltarra said standing stiffly.

Gandalf sighed, offering an introduction to the elven queen. "This is lady Viltarra of Erebor. She is wed to Fili, Kili's elder brother."

"Prince Fili is to inherit the mountain and the high throne of the dwarven people, is he not?" Galadriel asked softly.

"Indeed he is." Gandalf nodded, still warily watching Kili.

The young dwarven prince was currently looking at Viltarra with a little confusion and not a little anger. "No. No. Nope." Kili finally lowered his sword, now glaring at Viltarra. "Back to Erebor." He didn't speak in Sindarin. He didn't speak in common. No. His words were in Khuzdul. Balin and his warnings to not use the language in public can be damned for all he cares. "You cannot be here! Bofur, take her back. That is an order."

Bofur took his hat off, scratching his head as Viltarra blanched. Technically, Bofur had to follow that order as Kili was the highest ranking member of their party, in dwarven terms. Whatever Kili ordered, he would have to bow to.

"No!" Viltarra said loudly in the common language. "I traveled nearly two days to get here…"

"Foolishly." Kili growled ready to drag her back himself if he had to. "We need you at the mountain, Viltarra."

"Oh? So Tauriel is allowed to do as she pleases, but I am to say behind? Might I remind which of the two of us, still nurses their child?"

Kili snarled. "Tauriel…did not choose to be taken."

"BUT SHE CHOSE TO GO TO THE FOREST!" Viltarra roared, holding her ground, not caring at all about the audience silently watching the exchange. "She is not more free with her choices than I am! That is not how I work, Kili. Fili is missing. My Fili. I have as much right to be here as you do."

"The children…" Kili tried.

Viltarra narrowed her eyes, folded her arms, and glared. "I am not the only one who has children here, Kili. And do you think I would ever leave them unattended? Do you think so little of me? Do you think I am that kind of mother? Not only is Thorin returning to Erebor, but my mother, Dis and Nyaunni are there. In no way, are either of our children alone or uncared for."

Kili closed his eyes, his heart still racing while a pounding pain was echoing through his mind. A headache. But…Viltarra was right and he was wrong. Mahal he is lucky she has not pulled her blade on him. Taking a slow, easy, breath…Kili sheathed his sword and looked at Viltarra. "I am sorry, Viltarra." He said quietly. "I know you wouldn't just leave the children unless you knew they were cared for. And you have every right to be here."

Viltarra's gaze softened just a bit, though her eyes still blazed as she brushed some dried mud off his shoulder. "Do I want to ask what happened to you? You are caked in mud and branches...you look a bit wilder than normal, Kili." She lifted a brow, a tight but teasing smile on her lips. "Are you alright?" Her last words were as quiet as a whisper and filled with genuine concern.

No. Kili wanted to say. He was not alright. Far from it. Nothing so far was going according to his plans. He was covered in mud, he is even further from his wife then he would have been if he had it his way and went straight to Rhun, and…his mind still felt violated, raw, and intruded on. Not to mention as the first member of his family to meet the queen of Lothlorien...he has made quite the spectacle of himself and was not a little embarrassed of his loss of control, but still wary of what was done to him.

Kili did let a little smile grace his lips when Umyra flew down to his shoulder and nuzzled his head, cooing softly in his ear. It somehow helped Kili's heart calm even more, and he scratched the white raven on the head.

Turning to the elven queen with Umyra still on his shoulder, Kili just looked at her with an unreadable expression on his face. "Is that common, among your people, to simply enter their minds without permission?"

Galadriel nodded slowly. "It is very common. And it was more a shared thought, then me entering your mind, prince Kili. I would never enter your mind in such a violating way. But I do again, apologize for the alarm I caused. Your mind, is very well protected." She said impressed. "But even if it was not, one cannot see what another does not project. It is not as simple to enter another's thoughts and take a stroll through their memories or their connections without having already formed such a connection already. But, it is also not impossible, though it is a heinous crime among our people to do such a thing as to force oneself into another's mind to seek their thoughts and bend their will as Sauron is want to do. It is important to keep those walls to protect they that you love and care for. What you did, was exactly what you should have done."

"I would have rather not gone through that." Kili grunted, folding his arms. He looked back to see Haldir and many of the guards still with their weapons out and still trained on him. His eyes widened and he stiffened, stepping subtly in front of Viltarra to shield her.

However, Galadriel waived her hand and told them to put their weapons away. No offences have been made which were not her own. "Kili is a high prince of Erebor. It is a great honor to have one of the members of the great house of Durin in our woods again. Like Legolas, he and lady Viltarra are royal guests and to be treated as such in our lands during their stay, understood?"

"Yes my lady." Haldir bowed his head as did the other guards.

"We are not staying." Kili said, interrupting Galadriel as she was about to call for some food. "We are here for information, then, we will be on our way."

Gandalf sighed in frustration, muttering something about the rudeness of dwarves. Naurfaer though, seemed in agreement with Kili while Legolas was indifferent, though he too had a desire to get to Rhun quickly.

"It is the least I can do…" Galadriel said softly. "…to offer a safe place to clean up, and some food for your journey. Take an hour, take two, take as long as you need, and then we will meet whenever you are ready. I have some things you all must know before you leave here." She turned to Haldir. "They are all free to move through the city. They are no threat to us." The elf bowed again, then without a word, left them. Likely to go back to his station in the woods.

Galadriel then turned to another elf. "Orthyn, inform my husband we have guests." When he left, she gestured for yet another of those surrounding her to come forward, one of the eleths not in a guards uniform. "Farion, please show our guests to a place to bathe and rest. Take them to the rooms with the heated pools."

The eleth bowed, then waited. It was as much as a dismissal as they would be given, and Kili did want to get the mud off of him. Part of his foul mood, was likely from the discomfort of wearing travel clothes caked in grime…the chafing was not pleasant.

Before Kili could nod his agreement, Viltarra marched right past him following the other female. Clearly, she was still a bit miffed with him. He supposes she has a right to be; he'll apologize again later. If she really was to come with them, it was better to have Viltarra in a good mood, rather than a foul one. She was a sharp as a mithril sword, so it would definitely be best if he made proper amends…much better than being gutted in his sleep by his sister…so much better. He shook his head, and followed them down the steps back down to the lower levels of the city.

"You can rest here." Farion, the eleth said with a small smile as she gestured to a room. "There are beds a plenty and fresh linens in the drawers. Take what you need."

"I need, a bath." Kili grumbled as he readjusted the pack he had slung over his shoulder. Umyra was currently still perched on his other shoulder, likely because the raven sensed he needed her, and Kili was perfectly content with allowing the raven they adopted to remain where she was.

The elf chuckled softly and nodded. "Of course. This way, I shall show you to them directly if you desire."

"I definitely desire." Kili said eagerly. He shot a look to Viltarra who gave him a curt nod as she entered the room. He will absolutely need to talk to her, and he will AFTER he is clean.

The baths Farion led him to were separate from the room, though they were both on the same level. Kili tried to appreciate the beauty around him, but he was eager to get into some water and possibly even wash his travel clothes. Unfortunately, that meant he was stuck here until they dried enough for him to repack them.

"These are the personal bathing pools, so as long as you close the door, you will not be disturbed." The eleth hummed as she opened the door to the large room. A puff of warm steam escaped, and Kili felt himself relax as the smell of his wife's favorite bathing herbs hit his senses. He needed that and already felt himself begin to calm as Farion continued to speak. "It is already filled for you, and I hope you do not mind but we took the liberty of adding calming oils to the waters. They are meant to encourage balance and peace...but also help with sore muscles from travel." Farion continued as she flit around the room pulling a basket to set beside the water and a towel she placed on a bench. "The basin, just there, is also filled; you may use it to wash your clothes. There are soap bars, and herbal ointments in the basket should you need or desire them. Do you have any questions?"

Kili looked around the room. The bath was more like a pool than a bath and could easily fit four or five dwarves comfortably. It was deep too, with benches built into it so one could sit and relax, and taps similar to what he is accustomed to, so Kili was confident he could work them out. "No. Thank you though, and thank you for the oils, they are the same my wife uses so I know them well." He gave her a soft smile. "I appreciate your foresight. I could certainly use something to calm me down a bit after...well you saw." He rubbed the back of his neck ashamed that he just, can't react normally to some things anymore. "And I know I appear a mess." He chuckled. "So I am very grateful for the opportunity to clean up and have a moment to myself."

Farion bowed her head respectfully. "It is my pleasure, prince Kili of Erebor. I will leave you to bathe. Please call if you need anything further." She gave him one last smile then left, shutting the door gently behind her.

Placing his pack on the stone and moss ground, Kili allowed himself to truly smile as Umyra nuzzled his head once more then spread her wings and flew up to sit on one of the vines above him. This room, like the throne room, was lit by both the sun and by those odd orbs encased in the vines around the room. The space was purely organic, and almost looked as if it was a forest in itself with the vines, mosses, and branches making up the walls and the bath looking like a clear, small, pond in the ground. The only things that did not look organic here, were the porcelain basin with a large oval mirror above it, and the high windows between the branches which brought in natural light as it broke through the high trees. Even the benches and clothes hooks were created from the vines in the wall.

Tauriel would love this place, he thought to himself. Kili's mind could easily imagine his beloved elf walking through this room, and stepping down into the warm pool; her hair cascading down her back and her white creamy skin illuminated by the rays of sunshine seeping in from the breaks in the ceiling made up of branches, moss, and glass. The moment she turned to him, and smiled invitingly, the vision faded and Kili was left alone, looking at the water with steam rising from the surface. Maybe a cold pool would have been better.

Shaking his head, Kili removed his clothing, placing them in another basin filled with water the elf had informed him was for washing his things. Kili was grateful for it, as he didn't feel comfortable with strangers cleaning his clothes. He did cringe, however, when the water immediately ran brown. Thankfully, the basin was plumbed in, so Kili drained it, and refilled it, allowing his clothes to soak while he turned to the bath.

The sigh that left his lips was almost wicked as Kili stepped into the warm, fragrant, water. His muscles instantly relaxed in the heat, and he sat on the bench, pulling the soap from the basket beside where he sat, and began cleaning himself. It was quite the process, and when he was done, he quickly got out and rifled through his bag for his second set of clean clothes. Always pack a second of everything, Kili had been taught.

Once dressed, Kili cleaned his clothes a third time and hung them up to dry. He then turned to the bath and cringed; it was definitely a mess. Kili pulled the cord for the drain, and thoroughly rinsed the large pool like tub. He was a guest here, royalty or not. Elves already have a bad opinion of dwarves, and Kili really did not want to make it worse than it already was after his...reaction...earlier by leaving one to clean up the mess he made from the mud he fell into. Furthermore, dwarves preferred to keep their surroundings clean and tidy, especially when they were visiting, and it grit on Kili's dwarven nerves to leave such a mess.

Once the room looked as it had when he entered, with the exception of his clothes hanging out of the way in case the others wished to bathe themselves, Kili grabbed his pack, called for Umyra, and made for the large, shared room they were given to rest. He wasn't sure if they were staying the night; he hoped not. But if they were, it seemed to be comfortable enough with beds for all of them built into the tree itself.

Viltarra was surprisingly alone, sitting in one of the beds, mindlessly playing with the pendant Fili had made her for their engagement. Kili never saw her without it, though sometimes she had it tucked in her clothes out of the way if she were baking or training.

Umyra flew up to perch on the vine just above them while Kili placed his pack down and joined Viltarra on the bed. She didn't look up at him as he sat beside her, didn't even acknowledge his presence really. But neither did she move away from him.

"I am sorry, Viltarra." Kili said softly. "And you're right. You have every right to be here. I should never have said what I did."

"No, you shouldn't have." Viltarra said, still not looking at him. "When I married Fili, I had done it knowing my life would change. There are expectations…as Dis would say…for any lady in the family. I was afraid, my freedom and my independence would be tamped down into molds fit for a royal queen when I joined your family." She stared off into nothing, though her fingers still played idly with the pendant. "Funny, how for the most part, in all these years, I had all the same freedoms I had had my entire life. Freedom to do as I pleased. Freedom to continue working in my family's bakery. Freedom to say what I thought. Freedom to have an opinion. Then today…I was treated like I am a caged raven with clipped wings…told to go care for my eggs…forbidden to fly."

"You have been spending too much time around auntie Nya." Kili chuckled looking at her. She met his smile with a glare, and Kili cleared his throat. "You have all those freedoms still, Viltarra. I am sorry I made you feel otherwise, that was not my intention." He looked down at his hands. "I have been told…I can be…a bit overprotective."

Viltarra snorted. "A bit?"

Kili shrugged. "It's a family trait." He smiled again, now giving her an earnest look. "How about a truce?"

"I know far more about the world than you give me credit for Kili. I am no dam who has spent my life in one place, I was born under the open sky and have walked hundreds of cities in my lifetime. I don't need you nor anyone else making me feel as if I know nothing about what to expect out there…because I do. So how about you stop treating me like I can't handle myself and the world outside the mountain, and then we can have a truce." Viltarra folded her arms, the pendant falling to her chest. She looked at Kili expectantly, who chuckled again and nodded.

"Alright, fair enough. What do you think of Lothlorien?" Kili looked around the room. It really was unique. As ethereal as the queen that ruled over this city. Everything, every fixture, every furnishing, even the fireplace, was once again, organically designed to look as if it grew from the tree it was built around, just like the bathroom and the throne room.

"I think…I prefer Erebor. How long are we remaining here?" Viltarra sighed and stood, pacing in front of Kili, Hiril lifting her head from where she lay and whimpered at the dam, while Umyra croaked softly and ruffled her feathers, her armer tinkling with the action. Viltarra ignored them however as she continued to pace. "The day is not half over, we can still get some miles before nightfall in if we go soon. Even more if we can secure a boat."

Kili sat back, watching her. "I am as eager to go as you, believe me. Gandalf said we could find information here vital to our journey. As soon as we meet, we will decide from there but I honestly want to leave tonight if possible. If Gandalf wishes to stay here, then he can stay. As for a boat..." He rubbed his chin in thought then shook his head. "I don't have anything AGAINST boats, but with the enemy using the waterways, it may be best we take the horses. We can't risk being delayed by a battle, and certainly not by one on the water."

Sighing, Viltarra nodded. "I wish I could say you were wrong." She then paused and looked at Kili, her eyes boring into him which had Kili shifting a bit on the bed. "Kili, are you, are you alright? I mean, back there..."

Kili let out a heavy breath and rubbed a hand through his damp hair. "Ya. Sorry you had to deal with that. I think...I would have taken it better if Tauriel wasn't, well, wasn't asleep as she is. Tauriel has a way of knowing when to step in and react...I am afraid I have come to rely on her far too much."

"Kili, she's your one. I am sure she relies on you just as much." Viltarra sat on the bed and took Kili's hand. "I want you to know that I am here too. I can't help like Tauriel, and I know I am not Fili, but you are not alone, and I won't let anyone harm you. You're my brother, and that means something to me."

Kili smiled and pressed a kiss to her head. "I know Viltarra, and I appreciate that. It's still...difficult...sometimes. Honestly, I couldn't even tell you what the elven queen said to me, it was like I just...shut down. I hate it." He looked to the floor. "I hate how much that time in that place still has such a grip on me. It has been over eighteen years. Enough is enough already. I am tired of this."

Viltarra squeezed his hand. "I still get nightmares Kili, even after all this time. It is not just you, so you are not alone in that respect either. But that elf, who did that to you? The one who tortured you? She is gone."

Kili snorted. "Not completely. I see her sometimes, you know? Elbereth."

Viltarra's brows lowered in concern. "But...she is dead."

Kili hummed. "She is."

"Does she...do you think she is trying to hurt you Kili? From beyond?"

Kili snorted again, which had Viltarra looking at him with even more concern so he began to explain. "The opposite in fact, believe it or not." He released her hand and leaned back on the bed. "It's not like I speak to her, but she is there, just out of sight. I worked up the courage once, to ask her what she wanted of me when she showed up in one of my dreams; one where I was in that room again. Usually, it is Tauriel who guards my dreams, but in this one, Elbereth was there before Tauriel could intervene. But she wasn't hurting me, instead, her face was twisted into what I could only describe as pain and regret.

"She stood there, staring at me for several minutes, before I asked her what she wanted from me. With a wave of her hand, we were out of the room and instead, in a meadow of sorts. She sat in the flowers as she began to explain everything. What had happened to her, why she did what she did, and how she lost herself to the ring that took everything from her all because it helped her forget her failures, it helped her feel strong despite not believing it herself, and at the time, she trusted the promise that it would grant her the one thing she desired above all else...a child of her own. She was aware enough to believe it was the ring who granted her wish when she had Ivethin, but now, she is not so sure. Whether it was or was not, it was too late. She sold her soul, in essence, to become both a mother and a monster of the dark forces. Despite not really remembering all that she did, Elbereth was also not completely absent and had random moments of clarity when she would weep in dark corners knowing what she had done and lost until the monster took control once more.

"Elbereth also said twice, she tried to run away during these rare moments she came back to herself and realized what she was doing. She tried to find Naurfaer, not truly believing he abandoned her for dead. But before she got too far, they had her back and thrust the ring on her finger. After the second time, the change was too permanent, and she lost all physical control of her body, but still was, in a way, self-aware...yet unable to do anything about the monster who ruled her physical form. She didn't understand, or doesn't understand, why she is not burning in some outer darkness, or purgatory, for what her body did while it was host to the powers in the ring."

Kili sighed and continued. "She never asked for forgiveness. She said she couldn't, because she knew, or believed, she did not deserve to be forgiven. But she did say she has chosen to be my guardian of sorts. She also said there was nothing I could do about it and to get used to her protecting me as best she could." He laughed mirthlessly. "From torturess, to protector...it is kind of odd. Yet, not, I suppose."

Viltarra blinked. "Oh Kili. I don't know if I should weep for you, or be happy for you. I know my sister protects me, so I guess it would be kind of the same. But still, to see her face even if the circumstances were better...it must be difficult."

Kili shrugged. "It was at first. Oh, the nightmares it triggered whenever I thought about her. My poor Tauriel, I know I upset her and caused her more than a few sleepless nights. But as time has passed, it bothers me less and less. To be honest with you, I have kind of separated the two in my mind. It was Tauriel's idea, to look at the situation like the two Elbereth's were twins instead of one person. The Elbereth who tortured me, and the Elbereth who guards me, being two different people completely. Like Naufi and Orin. They look identical, but, they are not. It has helped me, tremendously."

Viltarra smiled as Hiril placed her head on her lap. "That is a wonderful way to look at it. Naurfaer said they were, in essence, different. He said his wife died long before Tauriel shot an arrow through her. But it is sad to think she was there, alive, all along. A prisoner in her own body. It is horrid that the only way she was freed, was through death. At Tauriel's hands no less."

"Don't remind me of that." Kili grumbled. "I still hate that I pushed her so far to the edge that day, she decided to run off into the woods and go to that compound alone. I have had more than my share of nightmares where I woke from my memory loss only to have Fili, uncle, even mam tell me Tauriel was killed; burned by the fire she was unable to escape or tortured by Elbereth and left for dead. It would have been my fault, because I failed her...and I pushed her to the point her mind shattered. I think those nightmares are the worst...because the idea of losing Tauriel...the pain would be nothing to what I endured in that place. Nothing, Viltarra. I need her to be."

"She loves you just as much, Kili. And I know she needs you just as much. She did what she did because of that love, and I think, because she needed to. It all turned out in the end though." Viltarra smiled and ran her hands through Hiril's soft fur. "You know, there are still days when I barely function. I hate how I still need Hiril to get through the day sometimes. The children help too, and my Fili. But...but what happened in that place, it will always be a part of us Kili. I don't think we can ever change nor truly escape it."

"I know." Kili said softly.

A knock on the door alerted Kili and Viltarra to another presence. Sighing deeply, Kili stood to answer it, thinking it was Naurfaer or Legolas to come check on them since the two elves in their group were nowhere to be seen. Bofur was gone who knows where too…so wherever they were they must have been together. However, it was not his wife's grandfather, or her closest friend in Mirkwood…neither was it the hatted dwarf Kili considered to be a close friend to his entire family; instead, it was the same elf who had shown them their quarters, Farion. "My lady begs your presence in her personal dining hall. We have an early lunch arranged. I believe the others are already there, they are just awaiting your arrival before beginning."

Kili looked to Viltarra who nodded and stood. "Alright. Let's go eat." She patted her leg and Hiril followed while Umyra settled once more on Kili's shoulder as they made their way to the dining hall a few levels up.

The table the group sat around was piled with pitchers of wine and platters laden with all kinds of food as the group of elves, dwarves, and a wizard discussed what was happening in the lands. Legolas had told Kili they were in communication with Lothlorien long before they came, so Galadriel knew about the attacks in the forest. It appeared that this place suffered losses as well.

"I have had nearly two dozen who have gone missing in the most northern parts of our lands. I have barred all guards from those parts for the time being." Galadriel said, her hands in her lap as the others around her ate their meal. "When I discovered it was once again Dol Guldur, and this time the Nazgul involved, I have since been piecing together information based on the testimonies of the few who have made it back to me. It is a dangerous time to be of the eldar. Until we have more answers, the safest thing for our people, is to stay far away from the fortress, and the forest that surrounds it."

"Nazgul." Kili sighed. "Before all this happened, I never gave much thought to such beings. And now I wish they were nothing but a foul thing of nightmares from the old days, instead of whatever they are truly existing in our lands. Why are they even here? And what do we need to kill them?"

"Creatures of pure darkness and hate is what they are, prince Kili. As to why they are here? I am afraid I know only as much as you. The Nazgul serve only one master who is likely the one giving them commands. They desire no food, no water, no sleep…only to serve he who gave them the power to live forever. They feed off his dark energy, and they survive only because Sauron survives. That does not mean they cannot be killed, and I can tell you what is needed to bring these creatures to an end." She looked at Kili, only at Kili, as she spoke. "But understand this, it is not so easy to simply kill one, without killing yourself in the process, prince Kili. So, though I will tell you what you wish, know I do so with intention to share knowledge only. I do not, in any way, advise you to face one of these creatures be that on your own, or with even your greatest of warriors. It is suicide for the sake of removing one of nine. You would never survive taking more than one out of this world. Do you understand?"

Kili narrowed his eyes at her and was about to tell her he was not afraid to face any foe, if he had the right weapon. But then he remembered whatever his fate is, so be his wife's fate, and he felt himself nod in agreement. "I understand."

The elven queen's eyes bore into Kili, but after a moment she seemed to be satisfied with what she saw and continued. "Very well. The most sure way to extinguish these beings, is to truly destroy Sauron. With his fall, all of the Nazgul fall as well. However, that does not mean they cannot be killed individually, for a Nazgul can also be removed from these lands with weapons forged of ancient Numenorian steal. But in this age, such weapons are difficult, if not impossible to come by."

"Why is that?" Kili asked. "If these weapons can kill these creatures, then wouldn't it be important to locate these weapons, or this city you speak of, Numenor?"

"Numenor, no longer exists." Viltarra took a sip of her wine, looking at Kili, then at the surprised elves around her. "My family traveled. I have gone through the cities of Gondor, of Rohan where we heard the stories from the men and women in the cities who enjoyed telling tales...and once we traveled past the waters where the island is said to be lost when my father was curious and wished to see the waters shore."

"You are well informed, lady Viltarra." Galadriel smiled. "I do not believe many outside those cities near the waters know Numenor as anything more than a child's tale, or myth. I am glad to see you believe it existed."

"Because it did." Viltarra said, sitting up and staring at the elven queen. "Too many things are lost over time, lost to stories and tall tales, turned to myths because foolish people don't want to believe the truth. Truth, even if it is difficult, must never be abandoned. It teaches us a lesson, it ensures mistakes are not repeated, and it humbles us. I believe many cities of all races would be thriving today, if the stories of old were taken more seriously than they are."

Galadriel took a sip of her wine, her eyes sparkling as she looked at Viltarra. When she set the goblet down, her smile was soft and proud. "I could not agree more, my wise friend. You will make quite the queen one day, Erebor's people will benefit from your wisdom greatly. Am I correct to say there is a queen currently? Has the king under the mountain found a bride?"

"Uncle married near sixteen years ago." Kili said, poking at the greens on his plate. It seemed Lothlorien was similar to Rivendell in their consumption made up primarily of things of the earth. Though, unlike Rivendell, there appeared to be several platters of fish among the fruits and vegetation which the elves seemed to be primarily eating. The fish, must have been solely for their guests. A kind gesture that Kili appreciated, as he speared some of the moist, tasty, pink flesh and ate it humming his appreciation. Dwarves needed protein, carbs, and full-bodied foods regularly, otherwise their systems do not function as well as it was designed to.

"Nyaunni is a perfect match for Thorin." Naurfaer said, piling more fish on both he and Kili's plate; the young prince holding his dish out eagerly, then digging back in as soon as he placed it back on the table before himself. Naurfaer chose not to comment or react, Kili needed food, he knew he had not eaten much since Tauriel was taken and the last thing they needed, was Kili dropping or slowing down because he hadn't fueled himself. Plus the royal family tended to be more...volatile...when they were hungry. A fed son of Durin, was a happy son of Durin...or so the saying goes.

Naurfaer also added more greens to his plate as well as a few steamed pears...which Kili scrunched his nose at. Kili hated pears. Naurfaer just chuckled at Kili's expression and continued. "Nyaunni is clever too, very clever, and brilliant if you ask me. Her skills at managing and merging both her clan, and Thorin's, has been nothing short of extraordinary. She was born to rule. I would say both Nyaunni and Dis have been exemplary instructors for Viltarra...but our Viltarra is a born leader as well. As loyal and courageous as she is, I quite agree with you Gala, she will make a wonderous queen one day."

Viltarra's cheeks reddened and she covered her embarrassment by taking another sip of her wine. She did not really know what to say. Kili, on her other side, gave her a smile and nodded his agreement. "Hear hear." He nudged her with his shoulder once then continued piling food into his mouth. Viltarra chuckled before pouring herself more wine and accepting the platter of the sweet pears from Naurfaer.

"If we canno' kill these...Nazgul..." Bofur said interrupting the conversation. "...how can we stop them from taken' more of yer people or from attackin' ours? Seems teh me like a better Nazgul, is a dead Nazgul."

"We cannot stop them." Galadriel said, her ethereal voice soft but stern. "And the Nazgul are already dead. It is why we need special weapons to dispose of them."

Bofur knocked over his wine, jumping up and apologizing immediately as he began sopping up the red liquid. He blinked at the queen, in a very un-Bofur like way. "Dead?"

"Yes." Galadriel said, lifting a brow. "Dead. Old kings, alive only from the power of Sauron. They will plague this earth as long as he does, unless we find a weapon of Numenor. But it would be your death, if you try to confront them with, or without these weapons. My advice to you all is to stay clear of Dol Guldur, and its foul inhabitants."

"But, elves are being taken…your own people. Not to mention they took my wife from me..." Kili said, his eyes darkening and his brows lowering in disbelief. "No. I don't believe we are to sit around and let them keep doing what they are doing while we do nothing about the attacks. Is it not letting them win?"

Galadriel smiled. "Courageous young prince Kili. I do not plan to do nothing, nor do I think you should either; I only advise it is the safest option and I want you to know and understand the risks you would be taken should you, with your own free will, confront the generals of Sauron." She looked at Kili and he saw the light in her brilliantly blue eyes, light not of this world, and he knew behind that gaze was a power he had never seen before. A power, not many others possess. "But there is more." She said once the group had gone quiet. "Do any of you have any knowledge of the Palantiri?"

Gandalf nodded. "They were said to be created by the Noldor, possibly Faenor himself during the times of the trees." He looked to Galadriel who said nothing. "The true number of how many were created was unknown, but it is said seven were brought to middle earth. They were used to communicate between the vast cities in the earlier ages, but I believe most have been lost over time. I have heard few remain and those that do, even fewer could wield their power without succumbing to some kind of madness."

"That is what I believe as well." Galadriel nodded. "Their creation, even to me, is a mystery."

"Well I can tell you Faenor had a hand in it, but it was a group who actually made them." Naurfaer said. "I tried to keep an eye on them, things as powerful as the Palantiri should be closely guarded. But even I lost track of all but one, and that is the one in Minas Tirith. I believe, it is still in use. So you think we should find one? Will it help us see our quest, Gala?"

"No." Galadriel said. "I have heard word, that Sauron may be seeking the Palantiri. It is best you avoid them at all costs. Though he does not have the power to create one, nor can he manipulate what one sees in the Palantir, but he can use it to see you and through the Palantiri…." She looked at Kili once again. "…he can see your thoughts, and can push your will to reveal even your darkest secrets if you succumb to him." Kili gulped and nodded that he understood. "Stay away from them, at all costs. I only ask if you know of what they are, and it seems you do."

"So...if we cant use one of the Palantiri...why does it matter if we know what they are?" Kili asked trying to shake the idea away of another getting into his head. He will be staying far, far away from these, Palantiri. Far away.

"Because, though Sauron cannot create one, I believe, he has made something similar, and far more nefarious." Galadriel said with a dark edge to her voice. She turned to the elf beside her, her husband who has said little. She had introduced him as Celeborn, and Kili thought he had a very kind demeaner. He even spent a few minutes early in their meal telling Kili about Moria, and what it was like in the peak of its time while they dished up. He spent a good portion of that describing the few kings of Kili's line…at least what he remembered of them.

Celeborn nodded to Galadriel and took over. "I have looked into the glass, and what I thought I saw, was a Palantir, but as I watched the vision unfold, I knew it had to be something else. Something similar to the Palantiri, but not. I have no name for it, but from what I saw, it seems to be some sort of tool they are using against our people…or so the glass foretells. It could be showing a possible future, or something in the past. We cannot know for sure which is why we do not openly share such things to the other clans. The glass, can show many things and some…are just warnings."

"Did you see anything else?" Kili asked eagerly, his food forgotten as he turned his entire focus on the elven lord.

Celeborn's gaze turned to Kili, his eyes filled with raw pain. "I saw our people, strapped to tables. I saw them in pain as the orb glowed, and I saw a human man, with his hand pressed to the sphere watching in satisfaction. Before the vision left me, I heard his name. Gerheb."

"From these visions..." Galadriel said to the silent group. "...we have been able to piece together what we think may be happening. I do not believe they are simply torturing the eldar. I think, that orb, is taking something from them...but for what we could not see. You must destroy it. Whatever that thing is, if it truly has been created as I fear it has, should not be in existence."

"What could destroy it?" Kili asked, even more worried about his wife now, and praying she wakes up soon.

Both Celeborn and Galadriel looked at him, then shook their heads. "We cannot say." Celeborn answered.

Kili sat in thought, then looked at Naurfaer. "Your blades destroyed the...that heartstone." He said, not really wanting to say the Arkenstone. "Could they possibly take this out?"

Naurfaer rubbed his chin, a habit he has picked up from being around dwarves. "There isn't much my blades could not take out. They were forged in Valinor and made of a special mithril not of this world. They have power most blades do not, and can destroy almost anything. So, I do not doubt they may be able to do something to that stone. But relying purely on a chance, is a foolish endeavor. What do we know of this, Gerheb?" He asked, looking back at Celeborn and Galadriel while the others remained quietly listening.

Celeborn sighed. "Gerheb is a different matter entirely. Our intel has found that he does in fact exist, and is a bit of a recluse in Sauron's favor. He is a man of medicine in the worst way, obsessed with destroying life to better understand it. Gerheb is who we have to thank for some orcs being able to better stand the light."

"I do wonder..." Galadriel took over. "...I have yet to see one for myself, but I am told there are creatures never before seen working among the Nazgul." She drummed her fingers on the table, as if gathering her thoughts. "It could be, that Gerheb is creating them somehow. That stone, could be aiding in the process."

"Could he be...turning elves into them?" Kili asked, glancing at Viltarra who seemed disgusted by the idea.

"No, I don't believe so." Galadriel shook her head. "It took Morgoth hundreds of years to torture and breed the eldar into the orcs. The timeline for such things do not match up. They are doing something else."

"If you were to make a suggestion..." Gandalf said to the lady of Lothlorien. "...what do you believe is happening."

Galadriel's gaze was strong and penetrating as she looked into the wizard, then at his companions around the table. "A guess, is all that this is. To gain true knowledge, I fear you must find the truth as you go. But..." She stared off for a moment, her eyes un-focusing then focusing once more. "...it is possible, in a very unnatural way, Sauron has found a way to create a device which could drain the lifeforce of an elf. Somehow, tap into the spark we carry from Iluvatar, and bleed it to place in another."

Kili hissed as his mind reeled with the idea someone may try and STEAL his wife's life from her. "I won't allow that to happen." He growled.

"There is more." Galadriel said. "Gerheb, is manic in his obsession, but he is still just a man. A human, a mortal. I do not condone the killing of innocent beings, but this man must be put to an end by any means necessary. I see only death in this world if he lives."

"I will kill him myself." Kili's voice was dark and menacing but rang with a heavy truth. This human was the reason his wife was taken from him, and just for that, if he was given the chance, he will kill this man. But if this human touches ONE hair on Tauriel's head...just one...Kili will make sure his death is as slow and painful as he could make it.

Kili jumped when Naurfaer placed a hand on his shoulder. "Don't become what you are not, Kili." He said as if he could read Kili's thoughts. "The man will die, but don't let the darkness seep into your heart, sion."

Kili scowled, then took a deep and cleansing breath. Sion, was a sindarin term for grandson, and for some reason, it hit Kili and had him nodding to Naurfaer. "You're right. Thank you, Naurfaer."

The elf beside him smiled and patted Kili on the shoulder. "You have a right to his blood, but I don't want you to ever lose the light that shines so brightly in you, Kili. That man is not worth it. He is not worthy of meaning so much to you, that he changes you." Naurfaer smiled wider as Umyra flew down to land on Kili's lap then began begging for food from Kili's plate. "She is worse than Hiril, you know. You spoil her too much." Naurfaer laughed and handed Umyra a bit of his pear, to which the raven accepted, then spit it out on Kili's laugh and proceeded to try and nip at Naurfaer when he tried to hand her another piece.

"She hates pears." Kili said proudly, handing his raven a piece of his fish. "I don't blame her, they are horrid."

"I think they are lovely." Viltarra hummed, biting into her own pear and closing her eyes in satisfaction as the sweet flavor filled her mouth. She handed a piece to Hiril, who was laying at her feet. The warg eagerly accepted the fruit, swallowing it in one go and looking at Viltarra as if asking for more.

Kili scrunched his nose in disgust, but chose not to comment as Viltarra continued to eat her pair, giving some to her warg now and again. Instead, he turned back to the lady of Lothlorien. "Can Sauron...do what you can do then? Enter our minds I mean. You mentioned he could do that with the Palantiri…but can he do it without one if he were close enough?"

Galadriel nodded slowly. "Yes. It is best you keep your shields up until you are safe back in your home as a precaution." She said softly, then after just watching him for a few minutes, stood and bowed her head to Kili. "Prince Kili, I did something some would consider unforgiveable. A great offence, and I wish to make amends. If you are finished with your meal, might I borrow you for a time? I wish to offer you a gift in recompence for what I have done."

Kili gave her a hesitant look. He looked to Naurfaer who nodded and smiled as he passed Bofur the pitcher of wine. It was the third pitcher of wine Bofur has drunk on his own since they sat for their meal. Kili sighed, hoping he wasn't planning on staying to sleep it off because he really did not want to stay the night if he didn't have to.

Legolas was even watching the hatted dwarf warily, then frowned when he took the pitcher back from Bofur to fill his own cup, only for a few drops to land in his goblet. "Truly dwarf? Must you drain the stores of wine whenever you are around?"

Celeborn chuckled and called for more wine, which was brought right away and passed directly to the elven prince who glared at Bofur as he filled his goblet. The dwarf had already drained his cup and was eyeing the pitcher hungerly. Legolas wisely pushed the wine out of his reach. "Perhaps, you have had enough."

"Don' tell me wha' I can and cannot have." Bofur huffed. "I can hold me spirits jus' fine. I ain' no dwarflin'."

"Could have fooled me." Legolas muttered under his breath while Bofur snatched the wine and filled his cup once more.

Kili rolled his eyes, but knew better than most how much wine and ale it took to affect Bofur, so he didn't say anything and let him be. Instead, Kili stood and nodded to Galadriel who was waiting patiently for him, though a spark of amusement was in her gaze as she watched Bofur.

Curious, yet wary, of where this powerful queen would take him, Kili accepted her offer. "Alright, lead the way." Viltarra moved to stand, but Kili shook his head. "I will be fine, Viltarra." She looked unhappy, but did stay in her seat as Kili followed Galadriel from the dining room. It did make her feel a little better to see Umyra following Kili, flying just above them as the pair left the dining hall.

"So..." Kili said trying to fill the silence as they walked. He had never been very good at keeping his mouth closed when he was nervous. "...where exactly are we to go?"

Galadriel looked down at him, smiling. She was so tall, so much taller than Tauriel, even Legolas. He would dare say, she was near Thranduil's height. Kili may be a taller dwarf, who could even stand eye to eye with some men...short men...he amended...but he was craning his head to look at Galadriel as she towered over him.

"A sacred place." She said, offering no more of an explanation as they walked down the steps winding around a massive tree in peace. For the first time since they arrived, Kili realized the elven queen walked about with bared feet. He shivered at the thought. There was NOTHING worse than bare feet and moist ground. Tauriel has even laughed at him when he refused to take his socks off when he gets into the heated pools beneath Erebor. He will remove them when he showers, but that is about it. Mahal, he hopes she doesn't make him remove his shoes wherever they are going.

The thought, however, fled his mind as the place they entered, was unlike anything Kili had ever seen. The two sentinels of stone he passed held bowls filled with a bright light, that even glowed in the afternoon sun. As he stepped past them, he entered an area surrounded by a wall of massive roots from the trees the city was built around. Large carved stone slats were placed within the roots acting as walls around them, and at the center, a pedestal that looked similar to one of the bird baths in his wife and sister's garden. Even the sounds were hushed here, though Kili could still somehow hear the soft singing so present within the city.

"This, is the mirror of Galadriel." The elven queen said, pulling a pitcher and filling it from a basin with fresh flowing water Kili had only just noticed. She poured the pitcher onto the pedestal and then took a step back. "Looking in, is a great gift, and one that can offer a glimpse into what will be, or what could be."

"And the catch?" Kili asked, folding his arms.

Galadriel cocked her head. "There is none. Though there is a warning."

"Of course there is." Kili said. He had not been raised with stones for brains. He was taught by Balin, who had lessons regarding such things. Magic. It was never cut and dry...Balin had warned...and never to be addressed lightly. There is always a price to pay, like Tauriel and her healing ability. For her the price was her energy. Expend too much, and she forfeits her life. It was why Kili begged her to not use it, and thus far, she has not. In fact, she hadn't since she brought Fili back. "You know, a gift is not supposed to cost the receiver...or it kinda defeats the purpose of it being a gift."

Galadriel smiled. "There is no great cost." She gestured to the pedestal with her hand. "The glass shows us images...they could be great...or they could be terrible."

"So it shows me my future?" Kili asked.

"It shows a future…." She answered cryptically. …should you stay on the path you go. Or perhaps, a warning if you stray...or do not stray."

Kili scrunched his nose. "I do hope I would not insult you, or the gesture...but I think I would rather pass."

Galadriel looked surprised, as if no one would miss out on such an opportunity, a gift. "You do not wish to see your future? Or glimpse of a path not considered?"

"I already know my future." Kili said confidently. "I do not need to look into your glass for any confirmation of what I already know. My future is Tauriel. Her, and our children. I have no desire to see what could be, when I know I am where I am supposed to be. I trust our path, and I trust her."

The smile that lit Galadriel's face was so bright, it filled the shadows. "You are, unique, prince Kili, and I am not offended in the least by your refusal. It is refreshing to see one who chooses faith to guide his steps." She stood there, silently assessing him for several minutes. "I do give you one more chance to look. I know you seek your Tauriel. The glass, can perhaps give you answers to aid your quest."

"Perhaps?" Kili asked skeptically.

Galadriel nodded. "Nobody really knows what the glass will show. It is different for all who look into it."

"Well that is certainly not helpful." Kili grunted, giving the pedestal a look, then shaking his head. "Look...I appreciate the gesture. Truly. But..." He paused, thinking it over. It was tempting, he could not deny that. Wary as he was about it, Kili could not help but desire any heads-up for his mission to find his brother, and get his wife out of wherever she was before they did something to harm her. He hated that she was unconscious. He hated having to wait to feel her warm presence, or the emotion directed messages through their bond.

Then it hit him. A different thought, another idea. "Can I ask for…something else?"

The elven queen lifted a perfect brow as if she had never been asked such a thing before. Slowly, she nodded, a faint smile on her pink lips. "You may ask. If it is mine to give, I will do as I can."

"Is it possible...to speak to my wife as you did to me? In words, instead of just, feelings."

Galadriel set the pitcher down, contemplating his request. "It is." She finally said. "Have you not been able to?"

"Only emotions." Kili said. "But we have gotten really good at turning them into words over the years." He chuckled.

"How long have you been bonded, if I may ask?"

"It will be twenty-one years this spring." A wide grin spread across his face. "Twenty-one of the best years of my existence."

If it was said that Galadriel glowed with ethereal beauty, then Kili shone brighter than the sun when he spoke about Tauriel. He couldn't wait for their anniversary, he had special plans for his elf.

"Twenty-one years, yet you are further in your bond than couples of the eldar thrice that. It can take a couple several hundred years to be able to communicate fully by thought." She cocked her head. "Yet...I do wonder..."

She walked up to him, causing Kili to have to lift his chin as she approached to be able to watch her. As she stared at him, Kili wondered if she was attempting to enter his mind again, and was about to stiffen when she gave him a soft, regretful smile.

"I really did wrong you, didn't I? I assure you, Prince Kili, I will never attempt such a thing again without your permission."

Kili's eyes widened. "But...you knew what I was..."

Galadriel laughed, a chiming sound like soft bells in a warm breeze. "It is written in your eyes, and your posture...the defensiveness. I only assumed, but it appears, I was correct. Again, my deepest apologies." She gave Kili a more serious look. "If you are able to protect your mind as well as you can, and share emotions so in depth that you can translate them to words...you should, in theory, be able to send thoughts. It is only a little different."

"In theory." Kili said with a sigh.

"Do not feel sorrow, young Kili. What you have achieved so far is tremendous. You have a great amount of skill and talent in your mind to do what you have."

"But you cannot help me." Kili interrupted.

"I cannot." Galadriel said, clasping her hands before her. "It is something, only you can do. But I may be able to instruct."

Kili brightened, an endearing smile lighting up his face in true excitement. "Truly? What do I do?"

Galadriel laughed again. She quite liked this young dwarf. "Are you able to find your connection to your wife?"

"Yes, but she is asleep. Unconscious." He sighed. "So our bond is a bit…dim…at the moment. She's there, but I can't reach her."

Galadriel nodded. "Alright. I am afraid there is nothing much you can do until she wakes, but, if you two are as connected as you seem, there is only one door between your minds...not two. Only one of you is required to deepen your connection once she wakes."

Kili sighed again. It was Tauriel who was the one to form the connection with him. She will likely be the one to be able to deepen it. He was a dwarf, this, was an elven ability. "Tell me what is to be done, and when I find my Tauriel, I will instruct her."

Galadriel lifted a brow. "If you are delaying because you are unsure she would be interested in such a connection, I find your decision humbling. But even you are able to do this, Prince Kili of Erebor."

"But, I am a dwarf..." Kili said voicing his thoughts.

"A dwarf with a mental fortitude of a talented eldar who has seen thousands of years in these lands." Galadriel placed a moon white hand on his shoulder. "All you have to do, is find the connection between you, find the door that separates your mind from hers. With my abilities, I can send you messages only your mind is able to receive. I can not read your thoughts, your impressions, not even your emotions. Not unless you allowed me to. Between bonded pairs, however, it is a different story."

Galadriel looked thoughtful for a moment. "Your door, houses a barrier between the two of you. One unseen, but strong. It protects, but also, keeps anything but emotion out. Remove the barrier, and you remove that which keeps you from sharing true thought to one another."

Kili nodded. "I still don't understand how you were able to speak in my mind...if my barrier is still in tact."

"I am old, Kili. Older than most beings in these lands. Though...not quite as old as Naurfaer." She chuckled and continued. "I have both unique abilities, and talents I have acquired over my long lifetime. Being able to communicate mentally, is the least of those."

Kili's eyes widened. The least? He wonders just what the extent of her abilities are. "You can do that with anyone then? Shields or not?"

"Yes. To any whose mind is touched by the ability already." Galadriel said. "But again, I can only project my thoughts. It is, one way, unless you choose it to be otherwise."

"So...all Tauriel has to do, is take our barrier away?"

"All YOU have to do, is take the barrier away." Galadriel said patiently, giving Kili a look. "As I said, either of you can do this."

Kili gulped, but nodded. He could not ignore the thrill of excitement that shot through him. He could talk to his wife, no matter where she was. No matter where HE was. He already knew what he wanted, and Kili knew Tauriel...she would want this too.

"Can we, put the barrier back up, once removed." Kili asked, wanting to ensure if his wife is uncomfortable with it, it can be replaced if need be at any time."

"Of course. You simply, build it back up as you did your shields. They are one in the same. It only takes practice, like any other skill; the more you do it, the easier and faster it is to put the barrier up and take it down."

Kili nodded, then smiled up at the elven queen. "I thank you for this, it is a great gift you bestowed on me today."

"I did nothing but share what I know. Not a fitting gift for what I did to you, but if it pleases you, then I am happy I could give you something to improve our greeting."

"Consider it improved." Kili held out his hand. "Perhaps a new start as well. I am Kili. Son of Dis, second nephew of Thorin Oakenshield, king under the mountain."

Galadriel looked at his hand then placed her own in his. "Galadriel, of Lothlorien." She said, humor in her voice.

Kili released her hand and was about to turn, but stopped. "You said two dozen of your people are missing from this city. If I can find them...I will return them here."

Galadriel nodded. "I would be in your debt, if you do. We will continue our investigation, and will send what we know and find to Mirkwood and Erebor...if you wish."

"I would appreciate that." Kili said. A croaking sound filled the area and Kili looked up to see Umyra staring down at them with her brilliant blue eyes. Kili smiled up at her, and held out his arm which she flew to after a moment.

Galadriel looked smitten. "Such beauty." She said. "They say, animals of pure white are creatures to be honored. Is she yours? I have hardly seen you without her since your arrival."

"She is part of my family." Kili answered, scratching Umyra on the head. She nipped at him once, but then, lowered her head for him to continue. Kili laughed. "She's never quite been fully tamed. My son found her near death on our balcony several winters ago. We thought she may leave us, but ended up staying and choosing a life-mate in the raven Tauriel and I raised from a chick. Her name is Umyra. She bites...by the way..." Kili added just as she bit his finger. It didn't hurt, rather it was a warning that she was done accepting scratches, and Kili honored her wishes.

Kili smiled wider as she inched up his arm and began preening his hair, cooing affectionately as she did...as if she was apologizing for nipping at him even if it didn't hurt. She really did love the family, but she will always be her own bird; as Tauriel puts it. "I really should go back to the others." He said, Galadriel still watching him and his white raven.

"You are not like any dwarf I have ever met. And I have known many." Galadriel said in wonder.

Kili laughed. "And I doubt you will ever meet another like me." He pulled the braid Umyra was chewing from her beak, before she could remove the bead from the end of it as he added, "I am, as they say, one of a kind." He wagged his brows. "And happily taken." He lifted the amulet he had under his shirt and let it jingle a bit before he let it fall back down to rest against where his heart thrummed in his chest.

Vibrant laughter filled the small clearing; laughter Kili wonders if these woods have ever heard from their lady. She certainly didn't seem the sort. "Fear not..." she said with humor in her voice. "...your Tauriel need not fear advances from me. I too, am happily taken. Shall we then?" She gestured to the steps and Kili nodded, tucking his amulet back away and following her up.

As soon as he entered the room, Viltarra was on her feet running right for him. Umyra flew from her shoulders to settle on one of the tree branches built into the room. "Well? What happened? You have been gone nearly an hour Kili!"

Kili nodded. "Sorry Viltarra. She took me to another part of the city." Kili sat on the bed and readjusted his boots. He nodded to Naurfaer who entered with Kili's clothes.

"The elf charged with these rooms noticed these hanging in the bathing room and put them in a place to dry faster. They are ready to pack." Naurfaer handed Kili the folded pile of clothes that smelled like lavender to his surprise.

"Lavender?" Kili said lifting a brow. Naurfaer shrugged but didn't comment. Shaking his head, Kili shoved them in his pack but kept his bracers out along with his thick coat. He only had one set of those. "Any reason we can't get on the road?"

Naurfaer smirked. "None that I can think of. I am ready whenever you are." He had another bundle under his arm and Kili realized it was a new blanket he must have secured as he said he would.

"I am quite ready as well." Legolas said stepping in behind Naurfaer.

Kili looked to Bofur who was puffing at his pipe sitting in a chair in the far corner of the room. He gave a noncommittal shrug of his shoulder as he put his pipe out and began packing it away. "Say the word an' I am ready. Took the liberty of getting' some food though, teh fill our bags fer the road."

"Then lets go. We just need to get Gandalf." Kili stood, pulling on his coat and grabbing his bag.

"He has decided to remain here." Legolas said. "He is in the records hall looking for information on those creatures. Though I fear he will find nothing that we don't already know. I suspect, he is also looking into information on whatever that stone is Sauron may have created."

"Alright, Gandalf is free to do whatever it is he wants. Besides, the fewer there are in our group, the faster we travel. Let's go." Kili swung his bag up and marched his way to the guards standing at the entrance of Galadriel's halls, informing them of their decision to leave.

They didn't seem surprised, and asked if he needed anything before they left. However, since Bofur already handled getting extra supplies, Kili refused the offer, but thanked them for their kindness.

A nudge had the young prince smiling at Elenath who was nickering softly in a stall between her mother and father. Kili patted her on the head as Viltarra walked in, her cheeks going a bit pink. "I hope you don't mind me borrowing her."

Kili smiled. "I don't mind at all, Viltarra. It is good training for her, and your family Viltarra, you are welcome to her when you need her. Finli is still too young to do much riding outside trips to Dale with me or Tauriel, so it gets her exposure to the outside world."

"He said as such." Viltarra smiled and they quietly readied their horses, Legolas and Naurfaer joining them moments later.

Once saddled, they walked their horses to the gates...or pony in Bofur's case, where Galadriel stood beside her husband waiting for them. Gandalf was nowhere to be seen, which didn't really surprise anyone in the group. If Kili were to hazard a guess, the wizard was probably buried in tomes and scrolls right now.

"We wished to see you off." Galadriel said. "Please know Lothlorien is open to you and your family, prince Kili. It has been a true honor having you and lady Viltarra among us. Feel free to visit whenever you wish, our gates are open to you."

"Thank you. I know my wife has a deep desire to see these woods." Kili said with a small bow of his head. "I will bring her for a visit, when it is safe." When she is safe, he wanted to say, but couldn't.

"We look forward to meeting her." Galadriel's smile was genuine. So unlike Thranduil, this elven queen was, with her open smiles and radiating warmth. Make no mistake, Kili can see the power Galadriel holds in her eyes, but that power was contained by wisdom and kindness.

As for what she did...Kili doesn't hold it against her. His mind was a bit wary though, and probably will be until his wife awakes and he can feel her heat radiating through his entire being once again. He just doesn't feel right without her.

Kili bowed to the elven queen, gave her a wide grin, then mounted...the others following suit. With a whistle for Umyra and a glance back at Galadriel and Celeborn, Kili pushed Maryin toward Rhun...finally heading towards his Tauriel.

Authors Note at the end of the chapter…obviously: Alright, a bit of Erebor, a bit of Fili's journey, and a bit of Lothlorien. I know I may have made Galadriel a little oc, but I did try my best to keep her character as close as I could to the movie Galadriel. I may have swayed a little bit. I also thought it was interesting when reading the books, that they insisted Gimli wear a blindfold to get to Lorien. I sort of went the movie route where they were wary but didn't make them blindly walk.

I also wanted Viltarra on the journey because she isn't some stepping stone meant to stay in the mountain. She deserved an adventure as well.

It may be a week or so before I get the next chapter out. There is so much going on, plus when I am sad, I buy stuff I shouldn't…so I bought the light kit for my lego Rivendell set and I really want to put that together. Lol. Hank in there though, another chapter will be coming.