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.

84. ACT V Chapter 26

Scroll down for the chapter! As always.

I doubt I need to say this, but unfortunately my notifications are STILL down, so I am sure others are too. This is the fourth chapter I have posted in a week? I think…something like that. So make sure you are on the correct chapter IF you have just noticed this post and its been awhile. is a bit of a mess right now with notifications and stats. They are saying it might be into 2024 before its fixed, sadly.

Just got one shout out and that's to Docnikki! I am so sorry I broke your heart that chapter…it broke mine to write it if that helps at allll! I love Tork, he makes me happy and I think he brings a lightness to a really hard time. Also…I did TRY and find some information about surviving an impaled chest. I learned it's pretty darn fatal, lol. BUT there are cases people survive, more now with modern medicine thanks to doctors like you. I am pretty good at sprain/strain stuff and casual wounds, but this kind of thing…is outside the scope of a medical administrative assistant like me. Even one who's done it for twenty years, lol. Also not in the scope of my business degree either, I probably should say that too, XD XD XD. I'm just going to need you to ignore the medical flaws hahahahahaha. I love reading your comments on them though and seeing how close I was to being accurate…or how completely far off I was XD. Those are fun too. I love it.

I will let you guys read now! Got some Fili coming right at ya.

Chapter Twenty-Six

Fili glared at the boat as he stomped off. "I refuse to get on another one of those." He grumbled as he stood beside Viltarra who was trying to soothe the baby.

"He's hungry." Viltarra sighed, ignoring her husbands temper knowing how much he hated boats...but also knowing how eager he was to get to the rest of the family. He will get back on it once he calms down and realizes he really doesn't have a choice. She looked down at the infant and sighed again when his face scrunched up and tears began to fall. With Tauriel gone, and the bags of milk she had filled for them now depleted, the baby was nearly inconsolable and Viltarra hated that she could do nothing to help him.

"That, Fili, is a very unlikely request. We still have an entire leg of a journey to complete." Naurfaer said, Kaw resting on his shoulder. The raven had arrived the night before, both informing them that Naufi was retrieved and safe, and asking for an update on their journey. But since they were really not far and the raven looked quite haggard, Fili opted to hold off on sending him back.

It had been a stressful few days on the river, with both Naurfaer and Fili ready to somehow get off the ship and ride through the forest to go to Naufi. Legolas and Bofur had offered to go as well, but the edges of the river in the area they were in at the time were nothing but sheer cliffs running up, and the waters were far too swift to safely anchor. In fact, even with the winds, it had taken all of the free hands they had to oar the ship over the speeding waters as they moved against the currents until they reached the confluence where they entered the forest river…only then were they finally going with the flow.

Fili too was pouring his strength into pushing the ship forward, Bofur just beside him gripping the long oar and singing a song to keep them all rowing together. Both were sore and tired by the time they cleared the worst of the currents. But both continuously searched for a place they could safely get the horses off the ship.

By the time Naurfaer had pointed to a place that was safe, Fili had been biting at the bit and threatening to swim to get to his brother and sister. Viltarra had to physically hold him back when Naurfaer told him he was being stupid and impulsive. And when Fili pulled his blades on the insulting elf, she also had to remind her husband that Naurfaer cared just as much as they did about Naufi, and killing each other would not be helpful to any of them right now. Fortunately for her, it worked…for the moment.

Legolas didn't comment though he sided with Fili, having wanted to go help Tauriel from the moment she left on that flying lion. While Bofur who thought Naurfaer was being far more logical in the situation, just chose to stay out of it completely and keep his opinion to himself once he realized Fili wasn't going to throw himself from the deck of the ship. Volatile sons of Durin were best avoided at all costs when they get like this…it usually doesn't end well for those who set themselves in the line of fire.

However, a fluttering of wings when Naurfaer was steering the ship close to the shore just as Legolas and Fili formed a plan to get the horses safely off the ship, had them all looking up to see Tauriel and Kili's raven heading their way. Kaw went straight to Fili, and gave him Thorin's message, and Fili had to sit down when the relief hit him hard. He pressed his hands to his face, and sighed. A weight had lifted off his shoulders, and he swallowed to keep the choking feeling from bubbling up into a sob. He didn't care that the others were looking at him with expressions filled with pity, he was just so relieved.

Viltarra sat beside him, pressing her head into his and whispering, "He is safe, our Naufi is safe." Because he was; both safe, and they loved him as much as they loved their own daughters. He and Orin came into this world with their Karra, they raised them all together, they loved them as their own. All of his brother's children, were as much sons to him, as his girls were daughters to Kili…and of course Fili adored Ithtiri as well. Which is why it made having to stay knowing Naufi was in danger, as painful as it was.

The other fortunate thing that happened apart from Kaw coming at just the right time, was because they had been really pushing the ship at a much faster pace, they had reached the bend of the river abutting Lothlorien much faster than Naurfaer had anticipated they would.

"How long do we have to stay?" Fili asked.

"We aren't." Naurfaer said. "WE are getting back on the ship as soon as we help the injured into the city."

"WHAT!" Fili roared. "NO! I REFUSE to get back on that boat."

Legolas, who had just stepped off the boat himself, rolled his eyes at Fili who seemingly tried to ignore him. "I was always under the impression that dwarves were a courageous people. You seem a bit, afraid, of something that cannot bring you harm. You know how to swim...what is the worst that can happen apart from getting a little wet."

"I AM NOT afraid." Fili growled. "The rocking makes me sick, and I HATE being sick. Small boats, dinghies, Mahal, even a barrel would be preferred to that rocking and rolling monstrosity."

"It's the fastest way to get the injured to Lothlorien and Mirkwood, Fili." Viltarra tried. "Besides, there isn't enough horses for everyone, and the river cuts off time by cutting through the difficult areas to ride for the few we do have."

"I don' much fancy getting on tha' boat again either." Bofur added as he joined them, wincing at the desperate sounds coming from the infant. "Bu' under the circumstances…she's right it is faster. It won' be much longer laddie. We can endure it."

"We could secure you a small craft then use a rope to pull you behind the ship…if that is what you prefer." Legolas said in an even, but amused tone.

Fili grumbled and took the baby from Viltarra, though he already knew there was nothing he could do to calm his cries. The tiny being needed to eat, and would keep crying until his need was met. Fili's head ached and pulsed as he rocked the inconsolable infant. "Fine." He growled. "If it will get us back faster, we will take the ship."

Naurfaer glanced a Fili, then at the approaching eldar from Lothlorien led by none other than Galadriel herself with her husband Celeborn at her side.

"Well, I guess this is the las' stop for half our party." Bofur sighed as some of the elves of Mirkwood aided the elves from Lothlorien as they unloaded the injured who needed assistance. Umyra being sent ahead did her job, as there were already numerous carts waiting for them at the small, elven, harbor. The white raven herself flew overhead, Kaw joining her as they danced in the sky. That is, until they perched on the ship as if waiting to leave.

Then there was the matter of the elves who were neither from Mirkwood nor Lothlorien, and who were just waking up and needing to be sent home. They will be remaining in Lothlorien as well, until they can make arrangements to get them back to their own clans and cities.

Apparently, they were neither from Rhun nor Harad...but instead they dwelled in an elven settlement between the two regions just south of the westlands. It was a small strip of land claimed by neither territory, but was nevertheless where several cities and clans resided.

"Ahh. That would be the midlands." Naurfaer had hummed recalling a swamp filled, humid stretch of lands he usually avoided. It would make little sense for these elves to go all the way to Mirkwood to only have to backtrack, so they will be stopping here. The ultimate decision for that, came from Kaowyn, Ivethin and Legolas who thought it to be the best idea.

Nelithi agreed though she rarely said much after Tork left. Mostly, she slept, while Ivethin kept a constant vigil over her, worried about her pain levels she was keeping to herself. She told Legolas when they return to Mirkwood, she would have to assess them all to see just what effects will plague them for the rest of their lives. She didn't doubt, some would choose to make the voyage to Valinor, unable to handle the pain they were in, and Legolas nodded in agreement, reminding her that she too was injured and needed to rest.

In fact, only a few of the elves from Mirkwood were getting off the boat to help…and those were they who were able bodied enough to assist the elves of Lothlorien. Most, including Nelithi, were remaining on the ship for the time being.

"An' the wee one." Bofur added, wincing at the unceasing cries of the newborn. "Is he stayin' here too?"

Viltarra stiffened and Fili sighed. It was a very touchy subject, and with Kili having left before they finished their prior conversation, it left Fili having to contemplate the best choices for the little infant they refused to name. Oh, but his wife, his Viltarra who HATES pet names, has decided to affectionately call the infant kandith, which loosely translates from Khuzdul, to wolf or warg pup. She thought it was fitting as Hiril was acting rather motherly and protective over the small infant and Dungael liked to lick the little elf's feet whenever one slipped out of the wrapping.

Viltarra thought it to be rather amusing both Dungael and Hiril had refused to be far away from her little kandith. They would both follow Fili around when he paced with the baby on the deck of the ship at night…Hiril and Dungael pacing right alongside him. Whenever the baby was getting fussy to eat, Hiril would start whining and would often times go find Tauriel before she had to leave, since she seemed to understand Tauriel was the infant's food source. In the rare moments Fili or Viltarra put him down among some blankets to sleep on the deck floor beside them, the wargs would curl themselves around the infant and act as a barrier to him from the winds and elements they were exposed to…since there were no available beds.

It was strange to see this kind of reaction from Hiril, let alone Dungael who supposedly grew up in the wild…which Fili has his doubts about that given how, tame, Dungael appears to be. Hiril, though, loved the girls, and was very protective of the family in general. However, Viltarra couldn't recall her ever being like this with any of them. It seemed as if Hiril knew somehow, the infant did not have a mother, and decided she could, at least in part, take on the role. Dungael was likely just doing what Hiril did. He was still young and learning, so he was probably just following her lead.

At the moment, Hiril was pawing at Fili and whining along with the tiny elf; Dungael was at Viltarra's side, huffing as he lay on the stone covered ground. Fili looked down at Hiril, and sighed, scratching her head. "I know, he needs some food."

Fili eyed the infant and sighed again as a group of healers approached them and he knew, he had a decision to make. This, was going to be harder than he thought. Since Kili never gave him his answer, Fili was forced to decide if he should take the newborn elf with them, or leave him here with his own people. He didn't have to ask his wife to know what she wanted…but was it what was best for the little elf?

"We were informed, of an orphaned infant who may be in need of food." One of the elves said softly as they approached them seemingly unconcerned by the two wargs on either side of the two dwarves. "We are preparing something as we speak. Is he to remain here in Lothlorien with the other elves, or are you to take him to Mirkwood?"

Fili swallowed hard and he saw Viltarra stiffen. "He is not going to Mirkwood." Was all Fili could answer, and the elf nodded.

"Of course. We have many here who long for a child who have either passed the window of bearing, or simply cannot produce. He will have wonderous opportunities here, and much love." The elf smiled softly and lifted his hands for the infant. At first Fili took a step back, his eyes narrowing at the elf who tried to console him. "I give you my word, dwarf friend, his place here will be far more assured than any other. You certainly cannot take him to your mountain, and no human would be able to care for him properly or understand his needs."

Fili growled a bit even as the lady of the forest herself stepped over to see what was going on. "Such lungs, for so small a creature." She laughed, a whisper of a sound. "I can see many good things meant for him." She said after a moment.

An eleth ran up, a bottle of sorts in her hand and she came to a stop before the group. "I was told to bring warmed milk for an orphaned newborn as quickly as I could." She bowed her head and gestured to the sobbing infant. "May I?"

Fili again narrowed his eyes at the approaching female elf, but not wanting to deny him food, he passed the baby to her. He was so hungry, he latched onto the bottle instantly and began to suck away at the contents greedily. All he has ever had food from, was a bladder, so the fact he figured that out so fast, filled Fili with pride. Smart little kandith.

"He is very small." The eleth said. "Once we get him on a feeding routine, he will be growing like a sapling in the spring sun."

"Thank you Ferawyn." Galadriel said. "Perhaps, you can get him out of this cold and take him to the nursery."

Fili heard a hiss of breath beside him, and turned to see tears now rolling down his wife's face; his wife who hates others seeing her cry but was currently doing it openly and unashamedly in front of these elves. Oh, his precious Viltarra. She was already so attached. "It is for the best, nunguame." He took her hand, squeezing it tight, but her eyes were fixed on the eleth who had turned away, and was now headed towards the city with the baby in her arms.

"No." Viltarra said quietly. Hiril beside her howled, a painfilled, desperate sound, but both Viltarra and Hiril stayed frozen, watching the eleth retreat. Although Dungael stood and began following until Fili called the warg back. It took a few tries, but eventually the not so wild warg listened and lay once more on the ground, whining as he too stared at the retreating elf. This is what was best for him, Fili thought as he slid his arm around Viltarra and pulled his wife into him.

However, when the eleth was just a few yards away, the infant released the bottle and once again began to wail. His sobs quickly became desperate and unceasing, even as she tried to coax the bottle back into his mouth to no avail.

"Fili…" Viltarra turned pleading eyes to her husband. "…please."

Fili ground his jaw, and swallowed hard. "It is what is best for him, nunguame." He repeated, trying to believe it himself. "He should be with his people."

Viltarra looked from Fili to the infant that even now, was being moved further away from her. "But it feels, wrong." She said. Something was pulling at her, something inside her. Not some phantom feeling she wanted to be real, but something that was actually there, a real feeling that had her taking a step away from Fili. "It IS wrong." She finally said. "Stop." Her voice was barely above a whisper before she growled low and menacing. "STOP!" She roared.

"Ferawyn." Galadriel said to the retreating elf, who paused and turned back to her queen. "Just a moment please."

Viltarra broke away from Fili and raced to the elf and held out her arms desperately. "Please…just…please."

"You wish to say goodbye?" The elf asked, then nodded in understanding. "I see, you cared for him. Forgive me, I should have given you a moment." She passed the wailing infant to Viltarra who did not hesitate to receive him. The cries stopped instantly.

Galadriel lifted a brow as the other elves around them looked on in surprise. But they all remained silent as Viltarra turned from Ferawyn to Fili, her eyes wide and pleading once more. "Please Fili." She whispered.

Fili walked over to her, and pressed his palm to her cheek, his thumb brushing away one of many tears to fall from her golden eyes. "Nunguame, his people…"

"What about Tauriel? What if…what if he isn't accepted like she had not been in Mirkwood; forced to live a life without real familial love or the true care she needed. The only one she had in Mirkwood who was anything close to family was Legolas." She turned to the elven prince. "I know you care for her, but it was not enough. She bears those hurts deep, and always will. Even you know this." Legolas nodded once, but said nothing as Viltarra continued. "This place is beautiful, and I know, I know you lead with true kindness…" She finally turned to Galadriel and Celeborn, who both watched with warm expressions on their faces before Viltarra looked back at her husband. "…but how do we know, this is really what is right for him, Fili?"

"We don't." Fili sighed. "But he will have the chance to grow up with a family of his own kind, Viltarra. You heard her, there are many in want of the chance to care for him. I don't think what happened to Tauri, will happen here."

"She has every right to be concerned." Galadriel said. "But if I may bring you some peace, Celeborn and I give you our solemn word, that he will grow in love and opportunity." She walked over and smiled down at the infant, who was clutching at Viltarra's vest almost as if he knew what was to happen. The smile on her face wavered a bit and her brows lowered in what appeared to be concern.

But Viltarra ignored her and turned to Fili. "I know he is an elf Fili, and I know what I ask of you, is not something light. But Fili I feel, in my soul of souls, that he is meant to stay with us. Our people love Tauriel, they love Naurfaer, they can love one more elf. And he will be raised with our traditions, while Tauriel and Naurfaer will ensure he has a connection to his own race. I am sure there are good people here, but look at him, look at him and tell me that you don't feel that same connection to him that I do. Fili…he is our son. You and I brought him into this world; he is ours. I cannot give him up."

Fili looked down at the infant, who was looking right up at him. As he stepped closer to Viltarra, the infant reached out to Fili who gave him his finger to grasp, and he grasped it tightly. He was strong, but maybe, also afraid. Fili felt the wave of fear through him, and he couldn't place where it came from so he waived it off. "Are you sure this is the right thing, nunguame, because once we agree to this, there is no going back."

"He is also immortal." Legolas added. "Are you sure you know what you would be taking on? He may age similarly to you, but he will stop, and never age again while his family slowly gives in to their mortality."

"I am sure." Viltarra said, tightening her hold on her little kandith. "I know what he is, and he won't be alone. Nobody's life is certain, not even yours. You said yourselves some of the elves may choose to go to Valinor, is that not dying? Do they too, not have families? Do you not know death in any way?" Viltarra looked down at the infant in her arms. "I know what he is, and I am ready to accept responsibility for my choices. But I am not going anywhere anytime soon. Fili is my one, and our lives are not short. He will be three or four hundred years old when he must face a world without us, and even then, he will have his cousins and his sisters. He will not be alone."

"He will have me too." Naurfaer said softly. "I do not plan on leaving this world, until I feel it is time. As long as I am needed, I will strive to remain here." Viltarra mouthed a thank you to him, and he nodded.

"So this is what you want, Viltarra?" Fili asked.

Viltarra stared into his eyes for several heartbeats before nodding. "If, if you want this as well. I won't force this on you if you truly believe, he should stay here."

"Alright." Fili said, praying he was doing the right thing. He pressed a kiss to her head as he rested his brow tightly against hers. "We will need to come up with a name, I am not calling him warg pup. He will be our son. But Viltarra you must understand, he can never rule Erebor, it will never be allowed; he doesn't have the blood of our line. It was a miracle the people accepted Finli, but they will never even consider allowing our son to have a chance at the throne." Fili said as an afterthought.

"Finli, was always meant to rule Erebor, Fili." Viltarra leaned into her husband. "It was never our destiny to bear a son, but it is ours to raise one."

"Clearly so." Fili chuckled. He brushed a hand across the infant's cheek, finally allowing himself to accept the feelings he had been trying to deny since the infant was born; that undeniable feeling that he already loved this little being as his own.

"Ferawyn, help Kaowyn see to the others who are injured." Celeborn ordered the eleth who was confused as to what was happening.

"The infant?" Ferawyn asked.

"If I may add my thoughts to the matter?" Kaowyn said, stepping from where she had just helped one of the injured guards onto the cart. She had overheard what was happening, and thought she would give her piece since she had been there. Ivethin was on the ship with Nelithi...the latter was currently experiencing an episode and Ivethin didn't want to leave her alone.

"Go ahead." Galadriel nodded.

Kaowyn looked to the infant then to Ferawyn who was part of her personal team. "I have watched these two dwarves take care of this child...and I must say, he is every bit attached to them as a newborn elfling ought to be with its parents. I would say that it would do him much harm to remove him from them now. He shall never recover, and have many pains in his life that may alter his abilities to make connections. If he were unbonded...then that would be another story. But this infant has bonded to this pair. It is my opinion that the best thing for him is to stay with them."

"But they are dwarves, and I mean that with no disrespect." Ferawyn said. "Are you sure it is truly what is best?"

"Ferawyn, he is with his mother and father. There is no better place for him than that." Galadriel said softly, looking into Viltarra's eyes, who nodded and tightened her grip on her new son. A son. She had a son. But then her heart broke a bit, knowing he was only her son, because his mother went through horrors no person should have endured.

The little elf whimpered, and Viltarra felt a sense of hunger fill her. She instinctively reached for the bottle which Ferawyn gave her before bowing and doing as her lord had ordered her.

"Many blessings on your journey, prince Fili. And thank you for all you and your family has done for us." Kaowyn bowed to Fili, who returned the gesture. She bowed again to her queen and went back to work aiding the injured.

"Quite extraordinary that he has connected himself to you." Galadriel said softly, watching as the infant latched onto the bottle once more and this time, ate with much more content.

"Connected? Kaowyn said the same thing, but I do not know what you mean by it." Viltarra asked looking up. Fili draped his arm across her shoulders, holding her close, just listening and watching his new elven son eat.

Galadriel nodded. "Our infants latch on to their mother's, and or father's minds, at birth... or shortly thereafter for some late connectors. It is a connection born for mutual benefit. It creates both a lasting bond, and opens a bridge of communication between child and parent, so needs are better understood and met."

Fili nodded, though he was rather confused. "My sister is an elf. I know all of her children are connected to both she and Kili…but I thought the only reason they were connected to Kili was because of Tauriel, and her bonds to them all. Neither Viltarra nor I are elves, so how is this even possible?"

"Are you the brother of prince Kili?" Galadriel asked.

"I am." Fili nodded.

"Crowned prince of Erebor." Celeborn said, bowing his head respectfully. "We have heard a lot about you from Mithrandir. He had many good things to say about you and your family."

"Actually, that surprises me." Fili chuckled. "He and uncle don't always see eye to eye."

Galadriel laughed. "No, I suppose not. But he respects your uncle very much, and I think likes the challenge that comes with working alongside your people."

"It can certainly be a challenge. Where is he by the way? I thought he was working on researching the Nazgul here." Naurfaer asked.

"He was, for a few days. But he decided a better place to search, was the great libraries of Gondor." Galadriel said. "They have many texts on the rise and fall of both Melkor, or as you may know him as, Morgoth, and even more writings on Sauron who once served Melkor for a time. The means to remove the Nazgul from this world once and for all, would be among those texts in that city…should a way even exist at all anymore."

"Do…do yeh no' believe there's a way?" Bofur asked, shuffling.

Galadriel's blue eyes fell on Bofur, who instantly removed his hat out of respect. Fili lifted a brow at his friend who shot him a look but kept his hat off.

"Indeed I do, master dwarf. But whether or not such a weapon is within our means to procure…is another matter entirely." Galadriel smiled warmly before looking back at Fili. "Mithrandir wished for me to relay a message when you returned."

"When? Yeh mean if we returned." Bofur grumbled.

"Oh, he believed in you entirely. He would have gone along with you himself if he believed at all you were in need of his assistance." Celeborn said, clasping his hands in front of him. "He was rather insistent that the young prince Kili, would tear the world open to save his bonded mate and return her home."

"Well, he isn't wrong." Fili said knowing full well that Kili would burn the world before it took Tauriel from him. "I would do the same for Viltarra." He looked to his wife who lifted a brow, then smiled wide. She was still lost in the pure joy of having another child. A son.

"He also said, that of all the sons of Durin, you are most capable of remaining calm and focused when things go wrong." Galadriel looked Fili up and down. "He believed you would bring them all back, once he knew you had not been taken and were merely following your sister." She glanced at the infant again. "To answer your earlier question, in the right circumstances, an elf is able to form a bond between races outside our own. I have known many elven/human mated pairs who have a connection to each other and their children. But I must say, it is not as deep as one could be. Your brother, even without meeting his elven wife, has the deepest connection with his bonded mate that I have ever seen even among our own kind…and I have been around for a very long time."

"Longer than this fellow?" Bofur asked gesturing to Naurfaer who huffed out a laugh.

"I think I might have seen a year or two more." Naurfaer said with a wide grin.

Galadriel chuckled. "A fair bit more than that, my friend."

"So, are you saying we have a connection, to our son?" Viltarra asked.

"I believe so." Galadriel nodded. "Tell me, do you feel anything when he seems to be hungry or upset?"

Fili stiffened and Viltarra slowly nodded. "I…yes…I didn't connect the two…but…I think I do."

"I felt fear earlier." Fili said staring down at the infant. "He was afraid we were leaving him." Now, he felt even worse than he had.

"I do not think he quite can make such complex connections such as knowing you were leaving." Galadriel soothed. "But he felt the distance likely from the bond, and that is why he began to cry as he did. He already saw you as his mother and father, and our young, even days old, are not want to be parted from their parents."

"I think I understand Tauriel and Kili a bit more." Fili said knowing how difficult it was for his brother to be away from Tauriel for any length of time, his children too.

Fili supposes if they had any further questions about bonded connections, he could just ask Kili or Tauriel. He felt more comfortable asking his brother and sister anyway. "You mentioned Gandalf had a message? We still have many to get home and we really shouldn't linger much longer." As beautiful as Lothlorien seemed, and as kind as Galadriel was, Fili really just wanted to move on. Although he was not looking forward to getting back on that boat.

"Yes." The lady of Lothlorien nodded. "He said to relay to both you and Legolas to remind king Thorin as well as Lord Thranduil, to be wary of the Nazgul. They are creatures of want, and will never stop when they have their eyes on something they desire. He worries they may use extreme measures to fulfill their orders." Galadriel said. "We have already seen what they have done to our people, we can only imagine what they are capable of when they become desperate."

"They have already taken Tauriel's child." Legolas said.

"A child?" Celeborn stepped forward, concern in his features. "From where?"

"Erebor." Fili growled. "We do not know all of the details, but Kili and Tauriel left instantly. We only just were informed he is now safe."

"Thank the Valar for that." Galadriel sighed. "I do hope all is well."

"Thorin would not have sent Kaw if it was not, but we still don't know the details." Fili said as an elf came up and handed Galadriel a basket with a cloth draped over it.

The elven queen smiled gratefully then handed the basket to Fili. "Necessities, for the infant. There is milk, a blanket, changing cloths, and some clothing to get you by until you are home."

"I do not know what to say." Viltarra said in awe, and bowed her head. "Thank you, truly."

"There is no need to thank me after what you have done for us. I wish to do more, and if you had more time, I would have implored you to remain with us for a time so we could properly show our gratitude for returning our people. But I do know you wish to be on your way. We have loaded some food onto the boat as well, and I believe Ivethin had requested some medicines which we have given her. She is one of the best healers in the lands." Galadriel said respectfully. "Prince Legolas, you are very fortunate to have her."

"Indeed we are. I just hope she remembers to see to herself as well." Legolas said with worry evident in his voice. "But I think she worries more for others than her own being."

"Many would agree." Celeborn said with a smile, having known Ivethin since she was an elfling. "Even before she was a healer, she had always seen that others are cared for before herself, I think that is why she is such an exceptional healer…she gives everything she is into what she loves. And that, is being a healing light to the world."

"The world needs it now more than ever." Legolas bowed his head. "I will ensure we send you an update of what has happened with the Nazgul. It affects all of our lands, as you too are not far from Dol Guldur."

"Indeed not." Galadriel hummed. "But we have made extra precautions to protect ourselves recently. I will not have my people suffer another loss." Anger flashed in her eyes but was quickly gone and a reserved sadness settled in its place. "Much healing is needed now, before the darkness touches us once more. I bid you safe travels, all of you. If you will excuse me, I must see to my people who have returned and gather those who will be staying with us for a time."

The small group bowed their heads, then turned and moved back to the ship. Fili gave the vessel a wary look, but walked up the ramp nonetheless; Dungael right at his heels. He then worked alongside the remaining elves to get the ship back on the water. Next stop, Mirkwood forest, then finally, Erebor. By the maker he was looking forward to being home.

Once they were moving again, Fili smiled and patted Hiril on the head as she nuzzled his knee when he passed by. Naturally she was not far from Viltarra who now sang softly from where she perched herself on a crate and continued to feed their son. 'Oh...Thorin will be so pleased.' Fili thought, then shook his head with a breathy chuckle. There is nothing more fun than keeping their surly uncle on his toes. He can deal with it.

Within a quarter hour, the ship was moving once again and they were underway for the last portion of their journey on the river. Fili just sat with Viltarra, both wargs laying at their feet as they discussed names, which she hoped would take his mind off the moving ship. Though when a bit of water splashed him in the face and she couldn't contain her laughter, he glared at her for nearly an hour. Eventually she threatened to name their son Leo if he didn't lighten up.

Fili's eyes widened, and he took his son from her, promising he would never name him after his mother's horrid best friend.

"She is far from horrid, and you need to stop. You love her." Viltarra rolled her eyes. "I don't know if it is right naming him after Lorilyn either…more for his protection. She seemed rather adamant they not find him and naming him after her just seems like inviting trouble in some sense. But we could name him after someone else we love."

Fili hummed and looked at her, cocking his head. "I agree with you about Lorilyn, it would be the honorable thing to do, to give him a name connected to hers…but I won't put him in danger by even giving her family a means to find him through her." Then, he smiled wide. "I wonder...if we are thinking the same thing though." He glanced at his son, then at Viltarra. "Tauriel."

Viltarra nodded and smiled. "After everything she has done for the family...not one of our children or hers for that matter, bears her name. I think we should honor her with naming him after her. But maybe...we can change it up a tiny bit."

"Tauren is named after her." Fili said, pressing a kiss to her head. "Aeodhen did that after she saved his wife and children. So we can't use that."

"He is, but Tauren is not part of our family. We could go with Auriel?" Viltarra suggested, but Fili didn't like the sound of that one.

The pair went back and forth, twisting around Tauriel's name, but nothing seemed quite right. Until Fili suggested Taurion after really considering what Tauriel's name meant. In Sindarin, Tauriel's name translated to Daughter of the Forest, Taur meaning forest, and riel was daughter of or something close to that. Ion, meant son in Sindarin, so Fili just swapped the end of Tauriel's name to give him the male equivalent. So in a fashion, Taurion meant, Son of the Forest.

"It should be son of the desert. He wasn't born in a forest." Viltarra said shaking her head but she smiled and scooted herself until she was sitting between his legs.

Fili chuckled as he wrapped his arms around her and the infant. "Erume-ion." He hummed. "Son of the desert…it doesn't sound as good. And it wouldn't be honoring Tauriel in the same way, very few would even recognize it for what it is. After all this time, and nobody in OUR family bearing the honor of her name...I want it to be obvious of who he is named after. We are here, because of her, nunguame. At least, uncle, Kili, and I are."

Viltarra thought to all of the children between her, Fili, Kili, and Tauriel. Finli, was named after Tauriel's and Kili's father…though Fili often joked his name was in there too and Kili just didn't want to admit he named his eldest after his favorite brother as well. Kili would smile with a twinkle in his eye, neither confirming it, nor denying it which had Fili in tears and hugging his brother. Finli was five at the time, and Viltarra wondered why it took him so long to put that together.

Karra of course was named after her sister, Dissah after Tarrah and Dis, Kilion after Kili, Vilia after both Viltarra and Fili's father Vili, and Ithtiri after Ithildin. No need to mention Orin and Naufi, they were directly named after Thorin and Naurfaer. But of all of their children, not one of them was given a name after Tauriel. So Viltarra could not help but nod her head in agreement. He kind of looked like a Taurion anyway.

"Wait…so Kilion is just elven for son of Kili?" Viltarra looked up at Fili who paused, then laughed loudly. "I suppose so. Should we name him Filion instead?"

Viltarra huffed and rolled her eyes. "That sounds terrible Fili; at least Kilion sounds nice while Filion just doesn't work at all." She snickered. "But, I think Taurion will do, and suits him while using a name close to Tauriel." Viltarra looked down at the infant who was looking up at her. "I think he likes it."

"I hope so, he will be stuck with it forever once we put it in the official records." Fili grunted when Viltarra pinched his leg.

"You are very unhelpful sometimes." She huffed.

"Sorry to intrude." Ivethin said softly as she slowly sat down on a small barrel beside them. "But I thought I may offer my congratulations. Legolas just informed me you decided to keep him as your own. I think that was a very difficult, but admirable decision for you to make."

"We love him." Viltarra said simply. "We understand there will be some hardships and questions he may have in the future, but we are willing to work through them as a family, so we can be together."

Ivethin nodded. "Had I not seen for myself the pure and unbridled joy that emanates from Tauriel now that she has a home in Erebor, and a family, I would argue that his place is with his own species. But I feel his place is truly with you. Can I ask how you plan on feeding him?"

Viltarra sighed and looked up at Fili who shrugged. "We have milk from Lothlorien to last until we get to Mirkwood, then I suppose I will have to get some more when we arrive. There are sources in Erebor once we get home."

"Have you thought about feeding him yourself?" Ivethin asked. "You have a young daughter do you not? That is what Tauriel has told me. Did you bottle feed her, or feed her naturally?"

Viltarra nodded. "Naturally, and she is three. But she no longer nurses. I stopped producing over a year ago."

Ivethin nodded and sat quietly thinking. "Would you be interested, in possibly taking something that may change that?"

"Change what?" Fili asked.

Ivethin smiled. "I have herbs and a few draughts that can, mimic, the body's hormones in pregnancy. It has worked for both humans and the eldar who have had troubles producing…even if it has been a year since they bore their child. I have never offered it to a dwarrow before, but I do not believe our physiologies are so different it would not work. Would you be interested in trying it? I cannot guarantee anything, but it will not bring harm either."

"Truly?!" Viltarra sat up excitedly. "Yes please."

"Are you sure nunguame?" Fili asked, a bit concerned about his wife taking something they knew nothing about.

Viltarra nodded. "Ivethin would never offer something that was dangerous." She said, and Fili could not disagree so he didn't argue it further. "How long does it take to work, if it does?"

Ivethin looked away in thought before turning back to the couple. "It has many factors it depends on. I have seen a few who responded in hours, taking the herbs and tincture in the morning their bodies producing milk by that evening…but some have had to take it for several weeks before it took. Sadly, I have even had a few whose bodies just refused to cooperate, and they were unable to nurse and had to rely on outside sources to feed their child."

Viltarra understood and said as such. "We would have had to anyway, but if there is a possibility I can feed him, I would very much like to." Ivethin smiled and nodded then left the couple to bond as a family as she went down to see to her injured people. Though Legolas quickly intervened and told her to sleep after she nearly fell to the ground from, according to Legolas, nothing more than exhaustion. Apparently, Ivethin had not been sleeping.

The sky overhead was darkening when the group moored the boat at a very rickety and questionably sound looking dock. Fili eyed it as he and two elves moved the ramp. They all three tested it, but it seemed to hold alright so he shrugged as they began preparing to permanently leave the ship.

It had taken them a day longer than anticipated after the boat got stuck in a narrow part of the river and they spent several hours inching the ship through the large rocks on either side, doing their best to keep the massive stones from tearing a hole in the ship.

It was precarious and slow moving, but eventually, and after a lot of frustration, they made it through to the closest point to Mirkwood. The remainder of the way to the city would have to be done through the forest on foot. They had sent Kaw to inform Mirkwood of their approach so hopefully, wagons will be provided for the few who could not walk. But when they arrived, the beach was empty and dark.

"Maybe Kaw didn't arrive in time. Do you think it is safe to travel alone?" Viltarra asked eyeing the dark forest line just beyond the shore. It was so cold, her breath came out in clouds of air that rose into the purple and orange sky. Fortunately there was no ice around the shore and the rocks seemed to be quite dry so her boots didn't slip across them as she walked, and the setting sun gave just enough light for them to see.

Naurfaer looked to Legolas who seemed to be wondering the same thing as Viltarra. "We are confronted with a choice than." The elven prince said. "We can remain on the ship for the night or however long it takes for help to arrive, or continue ahead. It could very well be morning when they come, my father may be still taking precautions to protect the people and keep the walls of the city shut after nightfall."

"How far from here are we to the gates?" Bofur asked, nodding to a few of the Mirkwood guards who had stepped off to assess the area as well.

"Only about a mile." Naurfaer answered thoughtfully. He was listening more than looking, and he seemed alright with what he heard around him. "The forest sounds normal enough to me. Crickets, frogs, evening birds…if there is danger, the area would be silent."

"Keen observation." Legolas smiled. "And one I quite enjoy. I am eager to see if Tauriel is well, and her son."

"And Kili?" Naurfaer asked.

Legolas sighed. "And Kili."

"I thought you liked Kili." Viltarra said, having seen the elven prince seeming to enjoy conversation with Kili when they were traveling to and from Rhun. She of course was not privy to their little argument that happened after Kili, Legolas, and Naurfaer left Mirkwood. Though Naurfaer thought they had worked it out. Clearly not.

Legolas lifted a brow. "Did I say I did not? For a dwarf, he is, tolerable."

"Careful…" Naurfaer said in a warning tone. "…you are sounding more and more like your father."

Legolas's cheeks tinged pink and he gave Naurfaer a glowering look. "Say that again, and I put an arrow in your head."

Naurfaer shrugged. "I only speak the truth, Legolas. You are better than that. Kili has been nothing but kind to you; do not speak little of him when he is not here to defend himself nor see what he really amounts to you. Didn't you two sort this out when we first left Mirkwood?"

Legolas narrowed his eyes at Naurfaer, but then, his face softened, and he looked to the ground for a moment as if in thought. He slowly nodded and lifted his eyes once more. "I have errored. Indeed, Kili is a very kind and passionate soul, and I rather enjoy being around him, most of the time. It is, just, as of late, I cannot help but feel the need to blame him for Tauriel's mortality the more I realize she is affected by it. I do not know the specifics, she will not tell me, but I do know she gave her gift up for him, or to be with him. I want to hate him for it, because I know I will lose her someday. But I cannot seem to truly hate him. He is far too likable."

Fili chuckled. "I cannot help but feel as if even our greatest enemies would be unable to dislike Kili if they got to know him. He is way to endearing for his own good."

"You are not wrong. Maybe we should send him to have tea with the Nazgul...if they are still around." Viltarra smiled wide. "Speaking of tea, did you know Leotti had a crush on Kili before Tauriel came to Ered Luin?"

Fili gagged then said, "Better him than me." Thank goodness things turned out as they did, because it was bad enough Leotti was both Tauriel and Viltarra's closest friend in Erebor, but if he had to call her his sister…he shuddered at the thought and the lengths he would go to avoid her at all costs if she was officially related to him. Again, thank Mahal it did not turn out like that. There is only one he will ever call his sister, and that, was Tauriel.

"Fili, we all know you are closer to Leotti than you admit. I see you helping her out all of the time so don't bother denying that you care for her." Naurfaer laughed at the scowling crowned prince of Erebor, then turned and patted Legolas on the shoulder. "And I am afraid you would have lost Tauriel one way or another, Legolas. She is far too spirited to be held down and locked behind walls even if they were there to protect her...believe me we have tried ourselves. She would have left Mirkwood at some point in her life to find her own path if Kili had never come into her world when he did."

"HA! And yeh think tha' path, would no' have jus' led right ta Kili anyway?" Bofur chuckled. "Those two are magnets. If the makers would 'ave put them on opposite sides of Arda at birth, yeh canno' convince me they still would no' 'ave found each other in their lifetimes. Meant for each other in every way they are, an' every life."

"Should we get everyone off the boat than?" Legolas asked, very much wishing to change the subject. He had no romantic feelings for Tauriel, he never had, but he still loved her. It will be difficult when she leaves this world, and right now, he associated Kili with her mortality, and he needed to sort that out himself before he does something he regrets and loses Tauriel anyway.

As he spoke, Ivethin was helping Nelithi who was dripping with sweat and trembling with the exertion of walking the few steps from the dock to the rocky shore where Ivethin helped her sit on a blanket she laid out for her.

"She is no' alright." Bofur said sadly and moved to help the eleth who was among the worst off in the group.

"I think that is our answer; though we really should keep the injured here and send a small party to the city. I will go see about getting the horses onto the shore." Naurfaer said softly, moving to the ship.

"We do no' have enough horses fer this." Bofur said, taking his hat off and scratching his head as some of the elves were supporting nearly all of the weight of the others.

Naurfaer paused on the ramp of the ship and spun towards the forest...his ears picking up on sounds coming directly towards them. "Then it is rather fortunate for us, that help is on the way." Legolas nodded while Hiril growled but otherwise didn't react and instead, laid on the ground at Viltarra's feet. Dungael, however, was sniffing the ground, his ears pinned back as he found a crab and began attempting to catch it. All he got for his endeavor was a pinch to the nose as the river crab shuffled under a rock. Giving up he moved to lay beside Hiril, though his ears were now tuned to the forest and he cocked his head curiously.

Bofur, however, just looked confused, as did Viltarra and Fili who didn't know what Naurfaer was talking about. But they too soon heard the sounds of approaching hoofbeats and wagon wheels coming from the forest.

"Keep a lookout Fili, I really need to get those horses out. Call if there is trouble...though with Maryn, it may be me needing the backup." Naurfaer sighed, moving towards the ship with Legolas and Bofur following to help. It was good timing for someone to arrive as darkness set in on the small beach bringing a bit more of an air of danger…this forest held things Fili was sure he'd consider just as dangerous as orcs and spiders.

Fili was in no way alone though, as many of the guards from Mirkwood stood eyeing the forest as well. Not one of them seemed concerned about the approaching noises, so Fili doubted there was anything to worry about; with their senses they would know if it was an orc party coming or something else. Tauriel had once told him she could smell orcs long before she saw them. She said to the eldar, they gave off a pungent odor, like rotted eggs on a summer's day. Fili was glad he didn't have elven senses.

When Thorin came riding out on Rhya with two Ereborian guards on their own ponies, Fili let out a sigh of relief. "Thank Mahal, uncle." Thorin jumped off his horse and moved straight to embrace his nephew who held his uncle tightly.

"Fili." Thorin said in his deep voice. "Thank the maker." He sighed as he grasped Fili having not seen his eldest nephew, his eldest son, in weeks. As he pulled away he pressed his brow to Fili's. "Welcome back."

"It is good to be back, uncle." Fili said as he pulled away.

Thorin looked Fili over, looking to see if he had any injuries but he seemed fine. "Are you alright?"

"Ya. Though I think Naurfaer is about to have a problem getting Maryn off the boat. Where's Ki?"

Thorin sighed as Naurfaer pulled Galaddal and Elinath down the ramp. He immediately sent the two guards to help clear the ship.

"Thorin! Well met, my friend." Naurfaer smiled brightly then looked behind him. "Are Tauriel or Kili with you? Could use a hand with Kili's horse...she keeps biting everyone who tries to untether her and I think she may have broken a few toes with her stamping."

Thorin shook his head, eyeing the infant Viltarra was holding. Oh he knew a bit about the situation...Kili having told him that Fili may be bringing home both another warg and an infant with him. However, Thorin still wanted to hear it directly from Fili himself what he was planning to do with it. "Kili is with Tauriel." He said gruffly, wincing as he heard the sound of what appeared to be a wild horse stamping about on the ship.

Sighing to himself, Thorin shook his head. "Excuse me, I think I can help with that situation." Fili chuckled as his uncle stomped onto the ship where Maryn was rearing up in the underhold as two elves attempted to pull her off. "Alright, enough is enough." Thorin huffed as he stood watching. "I will handle this." He said to the elves who were all too happy to have the dwarven king step in.

"Spirited animal." One of the Mirkwood guards said, rubbing his arm where Maryn had clearly bit him.

"Mmm. She always has been. She picks and chooses who she gives her respect to...and even then there are not many she accepts." Thorin walked slowly to the animal who was throwing her head up and down, her nostrils flared as she snorted out great breaths of air.

"Alright, Maryn. That will do." Thorin said marching right up to her with no hesitation in his movements. Without a single problem, he grasped her reins and untied the lead keeping her in place. When she did try to move her head to nip at him, Thorin gave her a deep growl and pushed her nose away gently. She pinned her ears back, but followed Thorin all the same with little more issues.

He walked her to Galaddal, knowing he will calm her temper, then moved back to Fili. "Kili has told me his side of the events that went underway in Rhun, but I want to hear it from you as well. There are pieces he said he didn't know because they were not there." He glanced at the infant in Viltarra's arms. "He also mentioned an infant you have been caring for and may bring back with you." He lifted a brow. "Am I to assume since you still have him, you have decided to make a rather large decision that is to impact our family as a whole without my input...again?"

Fili winced at the truly annoyed and exasperated tone that came from his uncle. Clearly, he was not pleased, but he didn't sound furious, and that was a start.

"He is our son." Viltarra said and Fili winced again. It would be best to EASE Thorin into such things...but it is what it is now the decision has been made, and Fili will NOT be ashamed of his son.

Thorin narrowed his eyes at Viltarra but held out his arms for the infant. Viltarra only hesitated a moment before she...somewhat reluctantly...handed the tiny being over to Fili's uncle who cradled him and smiled when the infant grabbed onto his fur lined coat. "Strong grip." Thorin hummed and began to instinctively sway, having been more than practiced at the art of holding infants with so many grandchildren. "Your mother will be ecstatic."

"And you, uncle?" Fili asked.

Thorin lifted a brow. "Me?"

Fili lifted his chin, standing tall and proud. "He IS my son. Will you accept him knowing though he is fully my child, he does not have our blood in his veins? I will not have him treated as if he is an outsider. I won't have him live a life Tauriel did in Mirkwood."

Thorin continued to sway for a few moments, as if thinking about his answer. It had Fili getting both nervous, and frustrated with his uncle who though has changed, may still reject the notion of the tiny elf being a member of the family.

Viltarra just watched quietly, her hands itching to take her child back, but she stayed where she was. Something in her knew that if not now, eventually, everything will be alright. She did relax, however, when Thorin nodded, though the smile fell from his face.

"I know I have made errors in the past, Fili. But I would like to think I am not the person I once was. If you say he is your son, then, he is a member of the family and will be protected and loved as any other." Thorin paused, glancing down at the infant. "He will be given a title as well."

"What!?" Fili asked in shock. "Truly uncle?"

Thorin adjusted the infant and lifted his free hand as if he was not finished and continued. "He will be a prince of Erebor, a title like his cousins and his sisters, but Fili...his title will not allow him to rule, even if he is your son."

"I know uncle." Fili said glancing at Viltarra. "I would never ask that. Viltarra and I, cannot have any more children, so we already fully accept Finli as my heir. I think, that was always how it was meant to be anyway."

"And the warg? I take it the creature Kili told me about is that one there?" Thorin indicated to Dungael who had his nose half under a rock as he used his paw to try and dig out whatever was down there. Fili rolled his eyes as he gave a loud whine and jumped up as yet another crab came scurrying out.

"Unfortunately…that's him." Fili grumbled. "Believe me…I tried to leave him where he belonged but he just keeps following me around."

"Fili, you and I both know Tauriel said something about him being sent by Mahal." Viltarra lifted a brow at her husband, then chuckled when Dungael pawed at the crab who had its pincers up and ready to attack. At least until it side stepped too close to a volatile Maryn, who lowered her head to eye the crab, then with one raise of her hoof…stamped it out of existence. She gave a low snort into the ground as Dungael eyed the spot the crab once was, then whined again.

"Are you sure about that?" Thorin grunted when Dungael went searching for another crab until Fili called him over…which naturally he ignored. "Doesn't seem great at listening for being sent by Mahal…does he."

Fili sighed. "He definitely needs training. But according to Tauri, Mahal named him Dungael and insisted the warg wished to be my companion. Personally…I try not to go against our maker, and he really is not that bad. With some work…he will be fine."

Thorin grunted again then nodded. "Fine. Another warg in my mountain. Anything else I should know about?"

Just as he said that, Naurfaer was setting one of the two chests down at their feet. "We need to keep an eye on these and get them to a safe place." He then glanced at Thorin and smiled wide. "I cannot WAIT to see Nyaunni's reaction to these. She's going to be happier than a pixie in a honey bee hive."

Thorin narrowed his eyes at the elf. "A pixie?" He grunted.

Naurfaer blinked then chuckled. "What? Haven't come across them? Tiny little creatures who keep to themselves for the most part. Well…mostly because we are giants to them. But they do become right pests if you keep honey bees. They will eat everything, the honey, the wax, even the bees. Good thing they hate the cold though, you won't find them this far west so our hives are safe."

"We can load those into the carts when they arrive." Legolas interrupted placing the second chest down and nodding to Thorin. He had the crate containing the book for his father as well.

"Are any of you going to tell me what those are?" He asked eyeing the two chests and one small crate.

"What…these?" Naurfaer answered, being deliberately oblivious to Thorin's glare.

"Obviously." Thorin growled and the elf laughed.

"Alright, keep your temper, I will tell you…or maybe just show you." He bent down to unlock the box and lifted the lid causing Thorin to gasp then growl.

"Do I WANT to know what those hatch into?" He said darkly.

"You could guess if you want, or I can just tell you." Naurfaer always enjoyed the challenge of driving Thorin to the brink of a full on rage. "But it is a long story. The short answer is these are gifts from one of the clans of Avari we worked with in Rhun…they raise Aelug and these, are aelúg eggs."

Thorin stared at the eggs, his temper flaring. It was one thing to adopt an elf who needed a family. He glanced down at the infant in his arms and it calmed him a bit. Then bring a warg sent by Mahal into the mountain…okay fine, Fili is right there, you can't exactly tell your maker no. But for the love of all that is gold, MORE of those feathered dragons?! What in the name of the ancestors halls, has he ever done to be tested like this!

"Kili didn't tell me about those." He seethed. "But you will be. But not here. We need to get to the city."

Fili looked to the path half expecting and hoping for his baby brother to appear, but it remained empty for the moment. "Speaking of Ki...is he alright?"

Thorin took a deep breath as he handed the infant back to Fili who gave him to Viltarra when he began to fuss. It was food he wanted, and she pulled a bladder out from where it sat against her breastbone. It was the only way to keep the milk warm without a fire. It was not a perfect system, but it was all they could do with what they had. She expertly held her son and opened the bladder and began to feed him. If she had thought to grab a bottle from the ship, she would have but he was used to eating like this anyway...hopefully it was only temporary.

"No." He said after a moment. He glanced at his nephew and niece, then up at Naurfaer and Legolas…both waiting patiently for an answer. "Tauriel was shot by Nazgul...a morgul arrow hit her in the chest."

"WHAT?!" Fili roared as Viltarra gasped.

"Sorry...did you say my granddaughter is injured?" Naurfaer growled, his eyes flashing angerly. "And nobody thought to send us news on it? We have been here for nearly a quarter hour and you are JUST telling us NOW?!"

Thorin pinched the bridge of his nose. "We knew you were on your way...and we were hoping to have better news when you got here." He looked to Fili, Naurfaer, Viltarra, Legolas, and now Bofur who quickly walked over when he heard the commotion.

Taking a deep breath, Thorin told them everything. "She woke once...but only the once. At first, Marawen was hopeful but as time goes by, she seems to be weakening again. They tried to wake her this afternoon, but...she won't wake."

"I am so sorry to intrude...but did I hear Tauriel is injured?" Thorin nodded as Ivethin swiftly walked over to the group. "By the creators, she loves getting herself into these kinds of situations, doesn't she? I wish to go to her immediately. Marawen is an exceptional healer, but I need to see her for myself."

"Me too." Legolas nodded, anger in his expression. Just as he was about to help Ivethin to his horse, he noticed lights in the forest and heard the unmistakable sounds of carts getting closer…more help had finally arrived. He watched the path as none other than his father appeared leading a dozen carts with lanterns on each corner.

Among the group who arrived, was the large shifter, who had gone right to Nelithi, growling when he saw her on the ground, still trembling. He immediately lifted her into his arms and said something to one of the guards who stood beside her as he loaded Nelithi into the cart he had been riding in. Legolas looked away when Tork pulled some furs over Nelithi. He wouldn't leave her side again, though he did help a few into the same wagon Nelithi sat in before getting in himself and sitting on the ledge, waiting and ready to move.

"Legolas." Thranduil nodded, looking his son over and seeing the angry expression on his face. "I assume Thorin informed you of our little situation involving a certain eleth you are quite fond of?"

Legolas nodded curtly and Thranduil hummed. "Well I had hoped I would be the one to speak to you, but that time has passed. Give us a few moments, and we will have everyone in the carts." He glared at Thorin. "I wisely suggested we all move together, but some feel it prudent to...ignore...my counsel. These woods are still dangerous and with the spiders on constant move, we must remain together."

Thorin rolled his eyes but nodded curtly. "I will ride Maryn. Fili, take Rhya...you know how to handle her."

"What about Tauriel?" Fili asked. "Uncle...tell me...tell me she is alright."

"I cannot do that, Fili." Thorin said. "Let's help where we can. She is being cared for and your brother and nephew are there with her. I also left Dwalin and Aeodhen to guard her."

"Something wholly unnecessary." Thranduil drawled. "She has no enemy's in Mirkwood."

Thorin grumbled something in khuzdul that sounded to Fili like he disagreed. "Let's get everyone taken care of...we are going straight to the healing hall when we arrive."

Soon, the group was headed through the dark forest, lit by the lanterns attached to each wagon. Thranduil had ordered enough of the lantern lit wagons be sent so nobody had to walk, though extra guards were among them, at least two to every wagon, their eyes and bows fixed on the dark forest around them. They did not relax until they rolled through the gates and the massive doors were shut once more.

The filled wagons continued through the city, not stopping until they were at a point closest to the healing halls. Ivethin immediately began to give orders to her team who was already waiting, but Thranduil placed a hand on her back and steered her to a stretcher, ordering her to let them take care of her. She had no choice but to listen to her king despite her need to see Tauriel.

"Are you in need of care as well?" Thranduil asked Fili and Viltarra.

"No, we are fine, but can someone look the baby over?" Fili asked. "The Avari said he seemed alright, but I know the healers of Mirkwood far better than I know them."

Thranduil looked curiously at the infant. "Whose child is he?"

"My child." Fili said staring directly up at Thranduil who gave the dwarven prince a cold look.

"That, is a child of the eldar. He belongs with his people." Thranduil said, then paused and eyed the infant and sighed. "But it appears, he has paired himself to you. And you, are okay with this?" The elven king looked to Thorin who glanced at Fili then back up at Thranduil.

"We already have two elves and five half-elven little ones in the family, so what is one more." Thorin grumbled.

"I don't know if I would call Tauriel's children even half-elven." Thranduil whispered under his breath, still confused, after all this time how the dwarven genes took precedence over elven blood when normally it is the other way around. Fili huffed in response but chose not to comment after catching Thorin's proud smile. Thranduil just gave them a look before nodding. "Go ahead, and they will see to your child. Mirkwood, is at your disposal."

Fili was ready to fight for his son, but was rather surprised when Thranduil just bowed his head and moved to aid his people out of the carts and into the healing halls.

"That, was easier than I thought."

"He knows what he did to Tauriel." Legolas said, having been standing beside his father. "And he sees what you have done for Tauriel." The elven prince smiled and shook his head. "You are a very odd family. But, a good kind of odd I think." He finally said before all the joy left his face once more. "If I may ask...can I see her?"

Thorin lifted a brow. "These are your halls, I am sure Kili will be fine with it. If you follow me, I will take everyone to her room. Both Naufi and Kili are in with her."

The group was only stopped once on their way, and that was just outside the healing halls where one of the healers blocked the doors and stared hard at the two wargs. "You may enter…but they stay outside. This hall is to remain clean, they…are far from clean." He narrowed his eyes when Hiril scratched behind her ear, dirt falling to the ground as she did. Dungael was an obvious mess too…so there really was no denying it. "If you insist on entering, they must remain outside."

"But…" Viltarra said, then nodded.

The elf opened a small gate to what appeared to be a natural garden. "They can stay in here until you are able to clean them up. They should be unable to get out unless the gate is opened. I will inform the others to let them be."

Fili nodded his thanks and pushed his wife past the wargs and into the hall. He will deal with them later, his sister was more important right now. With permission from the elf, the group entered the healing halls.

They all walked through the hall together, Fili's heart beating wildly in his chest as they were led to where he presumed Tauriel was.

Thorin paused at the door looking at the group. "Try and keep your voices down...I think Naufi is sleeping." He then opened the door wide enough for the group to enter.

"By the creator." Naurfaer said in a hushed voice as he looked at his granddaughter who lay still on the bed, Naufi laying at her side facing away from her and clearly asleep.

"Naurfaer." Kili said with little emotion in his voice. He stood from his chair. "I..."

"Sion, you need say nothing." Naurfaer placed a hand on Kili's shoulder. He eyed his granddaughter, then Kili. "How does the bond feel?"

However, before Kili could answer, he noticed Fili enter and his face broke just in time for Fili to push past Naurfaer to grab his baby brother. "Oh Ki." Fili said, fighting back his own tears as he held his baby brother tightly while Kili wept in his arms. He glanced at Tauriel in the bed beside Kili and his heart fell. At least...

"Kili?"

Kili tore away from Fili and turned to his wife who was once again, moving in bed.

"Tauriel?" Kili ignored everyone in the room as he sat on the side of the bed and cupped Tauriel's face, turning it towards him. "Open your eyes for me, amralime. Please, please open your eyes for me."

Viltarra stood beside Fili, taking his hand and clasping it tightly as her golden eyes fixed on the eleth in the bed.

Naurfaer stood beside Legolas, neither breathing as they waited.

Slowly, Tauriel's eyes opened and blinked several times, trying to get the world into focus. Valar the pain was instantaneous and intense, but she tried to push it away wanting to see Kili. "Kili?"

"I'm right here, my star. I'm right here." Kili cupped her jaw, brushing his thumb over her cheek as her emerald eyes searched for him. She slowly lifted her hand to cover his on her face.

"Why...do I feel worse than I did." She said closing her eyes again.

"Hey now little sister, don't go falling back to sleep on us. We just got here." There was no humor in Fili's voice that was almost pleading with her.

"Fili." Tauriel said weakly. She tried to find him and even smiled when he came into focus. Valar her world was spinning something awful. "Viltarra." She then said as she noticed her sister right beside Fili.

"We're all here, starlight." Naurfaer leaned over Naufi to press a hand to her head. She felt fine, so hopefully that meant there was no infection. He doubted there was anyway, those wrappings looked pristine.

"Adar." Tauriel felt tears gather in her eyes. It was too hard to say the long more formal version of grandfather in sindarin, but for some reason, this shorter version fit better. A feeling of warmth filled her as she was able to see Naurfaer standing over her. Adar. Far easier to say than auduadarya and far more fitting in Tauriel's opinion.

"Hello, starlight. You keep trying to leave me here...I am starting to think you don't like me."

Tauriel scowled and Naurfaer chuckled as he leaned down and kissed her on the head. "I was worried when they said you wouldn't wake up."

"We were all worried." Fili agreed. "But it seems like you were just waiting for your favorite brother to get here before you woke up again. I love you too, little sister."

Kili huffed and glared at Fili but Fili just slung his arm around Kili and pressed a kiss to his brothers temple. "Oh, I love you too, baby brother. No need to get jealous, I don't pick favorites." He then whispered loudly. "You're my favorite, Tauri. Shhh. Don't tell Kili."

It was Kili's turn to scowl but it turned to a soft smile when he saw his wife's lips lift into her own smile. He would give everything he had and more to see her stay with him.

"Ki...did you know you look terrible?" Fili lifted a brow at his brother who had dark circles so prominent under his eyes, they could easily be mistaken for bruising.

"Did you know you smell like a wet warg?" Kili huffed pulling away and folding his arms. "Speaking of wargs...where are they?"

"Outside where wargs ought to be." Legolas said smoothly. "Melon-nin...you quite enjoy scaring all of us far too much."

"Believe me, it is not purposeful." Tauriel said but the pain from speaking had her slamming her eyes shut once more. Why did this have to hurt so bad?

When the door opened again, none other than Ivethin came rushing in with Marawen right on her heels. "I said I have done everything, Ivethin. You need to be resting! Oh!"

Marawen paused and smiled. "Tauriel."

Ivethin ignored Marawen and moved to the end of the bed until Kili took a step back so she could see to Tauriel. Apart from old Oin...there was no healer in this world Kili trusted more than Ivethin.

"Now Tauriel...we must have a conversation about your constant need to put yourself in harms way."

"Kili, tell Ivethin that this was far from my fault. And I hardly put myself in constant danger...its happened only four times by my count...and one of those was not my fault."

Kili sighed. "You should be resting, Ivethin. But if you don't mind..." He ignored his wife who was clearly frustrated with him for ignoring her request. But she must have sensed his own pain because not seconds later, he felt her warmth fill his cracking mind.

"Oh Kili. I am so sorry."

"It isn't your fault, Tauriel." Kili said, wishing he could wipe the tear from her cheek as it fell...but he was currently too far away as Ivethin took the spot he was once standing.

The healer sat carefully on the bed, her own pain causing her to have to sit rather than lean over her patient.

"Kili, tell Ivethin she needs to rest. Marawen has been doing fine."

Kili, however, held his ground and again, did not voice his wife's request. Ivethin did need to rest, but she clearly wanted to see to Tauriel and Kili would allow her to do as she wishes. More than anything, he needed to hear what Ivethin thought, and he told Tauriel as much. She silently relented and remained still as Ivethin requested everyone but Kili to leave the room.

"Should I take Naufi?" Naurfaer asked, wishing he could stay but knowing Tauriel would probably prefer her privacy as Ivethin removed the wrappings.

"If you can." Ivethin nodded and waited for the red-headed elf to scoop up the sleeping child and slowly leave the room.

"We will be right outside, Natha." Thorin hummed, pushing Fili out.

"I suppose we can get the little one looked at while we wait." The crowned prince sighed as he followed the group out.

Once the room was empty except for Kili and Marawen who gave an exasperated huff, which to Kili was not very elflike, as she moved to the other side of the bed to help the head healer. They slowly and very carefully aided Tauriel into a sitting position and the eleth gave a soft cry as her wound adjusted to the movement.

Kili wanted to tell them to stop, but they had to reach Tauriel's injury on both sides, so he was forced to bite his tongue. He instead, forced himself to stay where he was while the two healers fully unwrapped his wife's chest. Kili was not squeamish by nature, but there was something about seeing a hole in your soulmates chest that always brought on a bout of nausea. Still, as he looked once more at the wound in Tauriel's chest, he could not help but feel as if it actually looked far better than it had been. Though he was confused as to why Tauriel both feels and seems a little worse overall.

"Well...this is not as concerning as I was preparing myself to see. Though it is still very much a life-threatening wound, Tauriel." Ivethin hummed as she carefully inspected the wound on both sides. "The back is nearly closed, very good stitching, Marawen. I doubt you will have much of a scar here. The front, is where my greatest concern is."

"Is she going to be alright?" Kili asked.

Ivethin hummed again. "If she lets her body heal, and refrains from making unwise decisions...I believe so. How do you feel?"

"Pain." Tauriel accidently sent Kili who grimaced. "I feel...tired."

"She is in pain." Kili supplied for her. "It hurts her to speak and move. She doesn't feel right, Ivethin."

"How long have you been asleep?" Ivethin asked.

Kili counted the days in his head. "About two or three days." They melded together since Kili has not slept himself, so for all he knows it's been a week. But he thinks its only been a few days.

"And this is the first time you have woken?" Ivethin asked a little surprised.

Kili shook his head. "She was unconscious for a day, then woke up. We were able to get her to eat something before she was given a draught which put her to sleep."

"It has been two days since she has woken." Marawen added in. "I did try to wake her today...but we were unsuccessful.

"What did you give her?" Ivethin asked curiously.

Marawen moved to the other bedside and grabbed the bottle they had given Tauriel and handed it to Ivethin. "Nothing unusual for our kind. Something to help her through a healing sleep."

Ivethin's eyes widened as she stared at the bottle. "You gave her all of this?"

"A normal dose for an elven female." Marawen nodded, looking confused. "Is there a problem?"

"If Tauriel was a normal elven female, I would say no, but her physiology is unique. You know she is mortal now, Marawen, I have it written in her notes of care and I have informed you of such I am quite sure. Whyever did you give her so much! It is a miracle she woke at all!"

"What is going on?" Kili asked, anger leaking into his voice. "Ivethin?"

"This, is a draught made for the eldar but is safe to use in moderation on mortals…minimal moderation. One spoonful is enough to put a human man in a dreamless sleep for three days. A dwarf, I presume would need a bit more with the same results, but not much. She gave Tauriel the elven dosage despite Tauriel's change in physiology…in essence…she gave her enough to put her into the sleep of death…one where the heart beats, but the body cannot wake." Ivethin glanced at Marawen who looked both shocked and apologetic. "I believe a mistake has been made that could have been rather grave if our Tauriel did not have the favor of a maker watching over her. I do not know, quite honestly, how she came out of this in her weakened state but I am not unhappy about it either." The look of severity on the healers face directed at Marawen was something Kili had never seen. "Marawen, please go see to the others who are injured. We will be having a discussion about this but your skills are still needed this night."

Marawen opened and closed her mouth then she turned to Kili. "My heart is heavy with guilt from this mistake. I am so sorry, Kili. Please know, harming Tauriel was far from my intentions. I never thought to account for the changes in her...I...I have known her all her life, have treated her when she came to these halls even when she was a child."

Kili almost growled as he glared at her.

"I do believe it was unintentional, Kili." Ivethin said to Kili, glancing at Marawen who looked horrified. Kili was not sure if she was upset because she was discovered…or if it really was an honest mistake.

"It WAS, truly." Marawen said, a look of horror still gracing her features as she lifted her hands to her mouth. Kili could tell she was blinking back tears. "I swear it, I would never do harm to anyone. My path is that of a healer…not to purposely bring harm. I quite admire Tauriel, I would never intentionally hurt her."

The problem was, Kili had heard false promises like these when a certain healer poisoned his wife under the guise of caring for her. So excuse him for not believing this elf after nearly losing his wife.

Tauriel herself was in shock. However, she did silently request that Kili reserve his judgments on Marawen, it did sound like just a mistake. She even took the draught without thinking...though she did not really know what it was anyway. She also knew Marawen personally, maybe not as well as she knew Ivethin, but Marawen had been second to Ivethin as long as she could remember. Though Marawen never really befriended Tauriel, she was always more than kind to her and helped her several times through injuries from training or on duty.

"Is she going to be alright?" Kili growled through his teeth as he moved past Marawen to take the side of the bed she had been standing on.

Ivethin sighed. "That is still to be determined…though the draught allowed her body to rest as it should, Tauriel needs far more food now then she once did. As such, she should have been awake enough to feed her system several times throughout the day. Her body is now weaker as it lacks nutrients. I will have broth brought in at once." She looked at Tauriel. "I need you to drink as much as you can. It will both hydrate and fuel you. Do not fight rest, but try to eat whenever you are awake."

Tauriel nodded weakly but almost cried out when Ivethin began re-wrapping her wound. Kili jumped in to help after growling at Marawen to leave. The eleth bowed her head and left swiftly.

Ivethin eyed Kili but continued her work. "I do not think she really meant to harm her, Kili." She said softly as they lay Tauriel back. Kili felt his wife's pain as it passed to him. Their bond seemed to be working, though it was still a bit mirky. Maybe it was just the draught leaving her system. That also meant her pain levels will once again be increasing. As much as he hated to see or feel her in pain…he refuses to let her take that again. There had to be something else to help her.

"I don't want Marawen near Tauriel again." Kili said after a moment. "And I want Thranduil informed of what happened."

Ivethin nodded. "Thranduil is always informed of such things, and he will be. If I did not need Marawen so much tonight, I would have dismissed her until we can look further into her actions. But I have to tell you, Kili, I have known her for over two-thousand years. I think I can say with confidence it is not in her nature to hurt anyone."

"Ya well, a healer nearly killed my wife once…forgive me if I don't believe you."

Ivethin's eyes widened as she remembered Tauriel being poisoned. "This is not like that, I am sure of it. But I will have the situation investigated. We will remove Marawen from the hall. I do need her, but we can make do."

Tauriel tried to grab Ivethin's wrist but missed it, however, the healer saw the action and lifted Tauriel's hand to clasp it in her own. "What is it, Tauriel?"

"Let her help."

"Tauriel!" Kili was shaking with barely contained rage. "No. Not while you are here. Absolutely not. I refuse to allow it."

"Kili." Tauriel said, her voice soft. The pain had her switching to use the bond.

"Let me get you some broth."

Tauriel opened and shut her mouth, then nodded. "Please rest, Ivethin." She finally said.

Ivethin smiled. "I will, I assure you. There are healers here to help. I really do hate to dismiss Marawen because she is really an exceptional healer…but your safety is my biggest concern." When Tauriel looked confused, Ivethin squeezed her hand. "You were not just my pupil once, Tauriel, but you have become my friend. I care about you. So…stop worrying about me. All I am going to do tonight, is make sure you are brought some broth and water, then I will check on Nelithi, then, have myself checked out. Remember, these are my halls, but I have a team to help me."

Tauriel nodded as Ivethin squeezed her hand once more before standing. She surprised Kili as she lifted the blanket and began inspecting the calf wound. "Has anyone seen to this?"

Kili shook his head. "To be honest, I forgot about it completely." He said, sorrow in his voice.

Ivethin nodded. "It shows. It looks a little too pink for my liking, I am afraid it is becoming infected. With how weak she is, we can't have that. I will clean it and rewrap it before I go."

"Ivethin, send in help." Tauriel tried to say, but the healer shot her a look.

"I have traveled from Rhun, spent days sitting on a boat, and rode a cart here. I think I can manage cleaning and redressing a wound. I will be right back." Ivethin left for several minutes before she stepped back into the room. She smiled seeing Kili now sitting on the bed, his face pressed into Tauriel's as they took a moment together. She was always filled with warmth when she was around them…their love was so pure and so beautiful it was difficult to not be caught up with them in their moment.

Sitting on the bed once more, Ivethin silently worked to remove the stitches. Several had been torn, likely from her running amuck in the battle in Dol Guldur. Kili was not with her, so he did not know just how much fighting she did…but considering Ivethin had to restitch Tauriel up after fighting in the harbor, Kili should not be surprised she tore more than a few stitches a few days ago as well. He felt beyond terrible he had not noticed it but she hardly flinched, so maybe she did not notice it either.

With Ivethin's practiced hands, it was cleaned and reclosed in no time. "Perhaps with you being down…this can actually get the time it needs to heal." She smiled as she replaced the blanket. "I made an order for more broth. I also took the liberty of pulling this from my stores." She held a large bottle of some white looking powder. "Place a small spoonful in your broth whenever you eat. It won't completely remove your pain, but it should make it manageable without causing you to tire. You probably won't need help with that anyway, your body will naturally wish to sleep since it is so weak right now."

Kili eyed the powder skeptically. He hated how much he wanted to ask if it was safe. He trusted Ivethin…he knew she cared for Tauriel. But still…

"It is very safe, Kili." Ivethin read him well, and answered before he could even ask. "She will not be receiving any more of that draught. Her body is already oversaturated with it. It should completely clear her system in a few days…but I will be monitoring her personally even if I have to take a room nearby so I can rest and be here for Tauriel. I don't really want to be far from Nelithi either; I will have her placed across the hallway."

She stood to leave, but turned and smiled. "Rest my friend. I will not be letting you leave these mortal lands anytime soon if I can help it. Is there anything more I can get you?"

Tauriel glanced at Kili then looked as if she was about to shake her head, but instead, opened her mouth and said, "Naufi."

"Of course. I will have him brought in. Anything else?"

Tauriel shook her head as she tried to settle back into her pillows, Kili helping her get situated to help ease the pressure on the healing wound on her back while allowing her to lay comfortably…or as comfortable as she could get. He then pulled the blanket back up to cover her. She had nothing on underneath the blanket save for a loose pair of cotton pants Kili was sure the healers had dressed her in when she was first brought in.

"I will leave you then. Please eat as much as you can of the broth, and add just a spoonful of the powder. The broth should mask most of the taste as it is a bit bitter…but it will help your pain so I implore you to take it." Ivethin moved to the door. "I will not be far, so just call at any hour if you need me. I plan on being only a room away."

Kili wanted to hug her for what she has done, but instead thanked her then, sat on the bed and held Tauriel's hand. He knew the others would be coming in within seconds, so he cupped Tauriel's face and pressed his lips to hers in a tender kiss. He didn't want to hurt her but he needed her.

"Lay with me, meleth nin."

Kili sighed, he wanted to, but he didn't want to jostle her either. This was just a single bed, and though he was shorter than the elves, he certainly was not as thin as them. "How about I sit in the chair."

Tauriel shook her head and asked again. "Please." She said.

With some internal debating on whether it was a smart idea or not, Kili compromised and took a seat beside her on the bed. "You and I both know Naufi barely fits beside you…there is no way I will."

Tauriel traced the dark circles under his eyes until Kili caught her hand and pressed it to his lips.

"You need to sleep, Kili."

Kili, however, was spared from telling her no as the family gathered back in the room. Thorin looked raging mad, so Ivethin must have talked to them.

"Naufi." Tauriel said again, her voice weak and quiet. Naurfaer held him until he saw her reaching for them so he gingerly set the sleeping dwarfling…dwelfling…on the bed where he turned on his side but remained asleep.

Tauriel smiled softly, the hand closest to her son sliding through his knotted hair. "He should be taken to the baths. He still has mud in his hair, Kili."

Kili nodded. He was planning on taking him today, but Naufi has been sleeping a lot and Kili could not bring himself to remove him from the room. Not to mention Kili himself was barely holding it together. "I will make sure he gets cleaned up, amralime."

Tauriel lowered her brows. "Kili." She said softly. She could feel something off about him…like he was only half here. Taking far more energy then she expected, Tauriel slowly allowed her groggy mind to cross the path to his mind…and what she saw broke her heart. Where Kili was normally filled with strength and light even after what he has endured in his life…there was almost like a fog filling the space, and fractures everywhere she could see. It was, painful and heartbreaking to know those are likely her fault.

"Oh, my Kili." She slipped out of his mind, wanting to pull Kili into her arms but lacking the ability to do so. She wondered if he even noticed her in his mind as he accepted the broth Ivethin brought in and listened once again to the instructions on how much powder to add. She closed her eyes, exhaustion still wracking her system.

"Tauriel…eat first please." Kili's voice was soft but sterner than she was used to when he spoke to her. She eyed Kili but kept her thoughts to herself for now. He was stressed…that was all….she hoped.

With Kilis' help, Tauriel slowly drank the slightly bitter broth…or as much as she could. She then sat back and looked around the room. She noticed Fili holding the infant, rocking him as he hummed to himself. She was glad they still had him…and maybe when she had more energy and was feeling better, she can ask what they have decided to do with him.

More food was brought in for the family along with several blankets when it was clear they were all staying together. Ivethin stepped in once more to check on Tauriel who was fighting sleep only because she wanted to be with her family. The healer didn't bother fighting Tauriel, and instead gave them all an update on what was going on in the hall.

Nelithi was in fact put in the room across the way with Ivethin using the room adjacent to her which really was an office they put a bed in for her to sleep. She preferred to be in there since she didn't feel like she needed a private room anyway. Tork was currently with Nelithi which answered the question Tauriel was about to ask when she realized her larger friend was nowhere in sight. It makes sense he was with Nelithi.

Legolas stayed to listen for a time before realizing he was likely needed to help his father and get changed himself. "I will be by in the morning to check on you, melon-nin." He had told her. "I am glad to see you fighting, as you always do." He squeezed Tauriel's hand, smiling when she nodded and squeezed it back. Then he bid his goodbyes to go help his father.

Before Ivethin left the room, Tauriel lost the battle to keep her eyes open and Kili was watching her with worry in his features.

"Have hope, Kili. I do not think the draught will have such a hold on her since she has not taken any more." Ivethin said as she watched Kili's skin pale when he realized Tauriel was asleep once again. "The broth will help move it from her system."

Kili only nodded, thanked her again, and prepared for another sleepless night. He ran his hands through his hair, watching as his brother slowly extracted himself from his sleeping wife to pull the chair over to Kili. The baby was sleeping in a small bed the healers provided for them.

"You're not yourself, Ki. What's wrong?"

Thorin lifted his eyes from a message he was working on writing Nyaunni and Dis. Naurfaer too, who was staring off at nothing at all, also turned his attention to Kili eyeing him with both worry and curiosity. Thorin had told him Kili had been acting off since Tauriel was injured…but they both decided it was because he nearly lost Tauriel. Thorin wanted to give Kili space to sort it out, asking he and Naurfaer to give him a few days before confronting him.

However, Fili…was not in the mood to wait. His little brother was clearly hurting, and he will be getting him to open up if he has to tackle Kili to the ground and rip it from him by force.

"I'm fine Fili." Kili said, rubbing his hands down his face as he tried to get comfortable once again in the chair. Will she be asleep for a few hours…or a few days? Will she even wake up. She was so weak…so tired…he could feel it coming from her.

When Kili opened his eyes once more, he had to lean back as a face was inches from his own…a pair of Durin blue eyes fixed on him. "Hammer and tongs, Fi…give me some space!" Kili had to physically push his brother away who was far too close to him. He really was not in the mood or the right frame of mind to deal with Fili's antics. He was fine. He didn't need coddling.

However, Fili refused to move. "When's the last time you slept?"

Kili shrugged, standing from the chair and pushing past his brother to go around the bed where Naufi was stirring.

"Da?"

Kili nodded as Naufi sat up, and for the first time since he's been in the elven city, he smiled wide when Fili came into his line of sight. "Uncle!" He slid off his mother's bed to be swept up by his uncle who spun him around causing Kili to huff due to the small proximity…but Fili ignored it in favor of focusing on his nephew. "Hey little gremlin. We have been worried about you. Are you alright? No missing limbs, no maiming? No new tattoos or piercings?" Fili looked Naufi over. "I don't see anything..." He flipped Naufi upside down, the dwarfling laughing uproariously as his uncle spun him this way and that. "Hmmm, I don't see anything out of sorts." He tickled Naufi who laughed again.

"SHH!" Kili growled seeing Tauriel stir but remain asleep. "Take that outside if your going to be loud."

"Yes uncle." Fili snickered. Thorin lifted his eyes and glared at Fili who just sent him an apologetic smile.

"Well, since you seem fine enough to me, I have someone for you to meet." Fili placed Naufi back on the ground for a second as he guided him towards the smaller bed, then lifted him back up just a bit for him to see over the side to what lay sleeping under a small quilt.

"A baby?" Naufi asked blinking at the infant who had woken up suddenly and blinked right back at him. When the infant turned its head, he noted the ears and gave Fili a confused look. "Uncle Fili…why's he got ears like mama? He's not a dwarf…is he?"

Fili chuckled. "Good eye, and no. He is an elf, just like your mama…but your aunt and I are going to raise him. I'd like you to meet your new cousin, Taurion."

This had Kili looking at Fili with something akin to shock on his face. "You…you did decide to keep him?"

"If I didn't do you think I would have named him?" Fili said to Kili who grumbled something and turned away. Oh, Ki. He thought shaking his head. "But I assumed you had thought I would…given your cryptic responses about you and Tauri adopting him."

Kili shrugged, not really responding in any way. Really it was Tauriel who said Fili would be keeping him. She was the one who noticed the infant was bonded to Fili and Viltarra almost immediately. She just didn't tell them because she told Kili it had to be their choice in the end. She knew Fili would work it out, but told Kili IF for some reason Fili and Viltarra didn't, and chose to leave the infant in Lothlorien…well then they would just be making a trip to retrieve him themselves. So either way…that baby was coming to Erebor.

Kili may not be showing it, but he was happy they kept him. He was also not so gone he didn't notice the name…but with so much going on, he really was not in the place to comment on it. He will tell his brother how proud he is of him, and how excited Tauriel will be when he knows she will be alright. 'Stay with me, my star. Please.' He begged. He knew his brother was still talking to him…he knew his brother had even asked what he thought…but Kili just kept his eyes on his sleeping wife. He really should see to his son though…Tauriel would never forgive him if he neglected Naufi. He may be a husband…but he was a father too. A small voice said he was a brother as well but he batted that away. Fili is an adult, he will be fine.

"Kili…why are you avoiding me?"

"Come on Naufi. Lets see if we can find you a bath that's open at this hour. Its still an hour before dinner…so we should be able to find you one that has heated water." Kili said, ignoring his brother completely.

"But I want to stay with mama."

"It wasn't a suggestion, Naurfaer." Kili said sternly causing the dwarflings chin to wobble though he nodded. Gone was the smile he had just had, and the laughter in the room. Kili felt guilt fill him…but it was so overridden by the immense cloud of despair and pain in his mind that had such a hold on him…he wasn't sure he could pull himself out.

Thorin sighed and shook his head. So much for Naufi doing better, with just a few stern words the dwarfling was retreating back into himself.

"Why don't I take him to the baths." Naurfaer suggested but Kili glared at him.

"I can take care of my son just fine, thank you. Let's go Naufi." Kili left no room for argument as he moved to the door and held it open. "Please stay with Tauriel and let me know if there are any changes. I will be back."

Just as the door began to close, Fili grabbed it and followed Kili out. He was not about to let his brother go like this. He said a few words to his wife who nodded and watched him go.

"Fi…you don't need to child sit me." Kili growled as he turned to see his brother following him. Dwalin nodded to them in passing but went back to sharpening his axe.

"What…me?" Fili asked nonchalantly. "Naw. I just thought…maybe I could use a bath too. The showers here are ice cold but I do remember Tauri mentioning the heated baths. Don't think I will pass them up considering I have been in not one, but TWO battles, been saturated in blood, and traveling for weeks with out being able to properly clean myself. I do not count jumping in the river as bathing either…I actually do smell like a wet warg. Speaking of which, I have two to check on and make sure they have not gone on a hunting trip considering Dungael is essentially wild. Viltarra and the baby are with Naurfaer and Thorin with Dwalin watching the door…they will be fine." He was about to add that he thought Kili needed him more…but decided to keep that to himself.

"Are you sure Dungael is wild." Kili asked as he saw the tail of the dark colored warg wagging on the ground through the bottom of a small fence. He was facing away from them so Kili couldn't see what had him wagging his tail…but something did.

Fili heard the small giggle first and looked at Kili, the two brothers picking up their speed as they turned the corner to see a small eleth laughing as Hiril licked her face. Dungael, it seemed, was happily stuffing his nose in a burlap bag filled with some kind of food. Fili sighed and shook his head. "Alright you two beggars, leave her alone."

"Uh Fili…"

The eleth paused and narrowed her green eyes at Fili, her blond hair falling into her face. "I am NOT a girl." She…no…he…said.

Fili blinked at the child, then his brother who had his hand over his lips as if trying to contain a smile forcing its way on his face. His current stoic demeaner won out, however, and he folded his arms and stared at his brother. "I think an apology is owed, Fili."

Fili rolled his eyes, opting NOT to remind his brother about the time HE mistook an elven male for a female in Rivendell. "Right. Sorry. You should be careful though with creatures you don't know."

"Why. They seem fine. If they were dangerous, they would not be allowed inside our walls." The elven child said in his soft voice. Naturally, he was speaking Sindarin, the two brothers so used to the language, their minds instantly translated the words.

"Okay…that's fair." Fili agreed. "But still, you shouldn't…you know what, its fine. What's your name?"

"Aurias. My nana is a healer, and ada is in the guard. He was called on duty tonight so I have to stay here with nana because its safer. They said a lot of our people came back from a different part of the world! Did you come back as well?" He climbed up on the small fence, making him just over a head shorter than the two dwarves he spoke to.

Fili nodded glancing at Naufi who was eyeing the elven child curiously. Since Kili was not saying anything, he thought maybe he should introduce them. "I'm Fili of Erebor, and this is my brother Kili, and his son, Naufi. We were just heading to the baths."

Aurias nodded. "Nana and ada take me to the bath just down the path quite often. I can show you if you like? They are not far…just down that path and they are open all hours of the day and night."

"Shouldn't you ask your parents?" Kili asked.

Aurias thought for a moment. "Nana is helping the injured…but I will go ask her. Will you wait for me?"

"Go on, we won't leave." Fili agreed as the little elfling climbed completely over the fence then ran inside. He was back in just a few moments with a soft smile on his face.

"Nana said I can go as long as I come right back and stay with you. She knows of who you are, and said you saved a lot of our peoples lives! Is that true?"

"To a degree." Kili sighed. "My Tauriel helped."

"Like…captain Tauriel?" The elfling asked in awe.

"The same." Fili smiled. "Do you know her?"

The elfling sadly shook his head. "I wish I did! My uncle is Galloron. He has told me stories of the battles you fought together against the orcs and goblins."

"I didn't know Galloron had a brother." Fili smiled.

The elfling looked confused. "Uncle Galloron doesn't have any brothers. But my nana is his sister if that is what you mean."

Kili lifted a brow at Fili who hummed and nodded. "My mistake. I suppose we should be moving then. Lead the way."

Aurias was right, the baths in this area were really just down a path and a set of steps and they were for the most part, empty. There were a few who were walking past them speaking quietly to each other as they walked by but for the most part, the area was quiet.

Tauriel had never brought Kili down here, saying it was too public for her…she preferred the quieter places that were more hidden away so she could take time for herself when she lived in Mirkwood. So those were the spaces she showed Kili the few times they had visited the forest city together.

Kili glanced around at the numerous pools taking up the large area. He noted the steam coming off the waters surfaces and was grateful they at least appeared to be warmed.

"Shoes and socks please." Came a soft voice beside him that nearly startled Kili. He looked up to see a tall elf gesturing to an alcove where shoes and socks were to be placed.

"You have to remove your shoes before you enter the area." Aurias said, already working to remove his elven boots. "It's the rules."

"Right." Kili sighed, hating beyond anything going barefoot. "You too Naufi."

Naufi blinked and nodded, sitting beside the elfling to take his shoes off. Kili watched his son, his unusually quiet son, not say a word to the elfling who sat right beside him. He sighed as he handed the elf his and his sons shoes, waiting for Fili to do the same.

"There are ten pools, and bathing supplies with each. Please do not drain them, they are self cleaning and filtering. No food is permitted, and no personal relations of any sort is allowed." The elf said in a soft bored tone.

Fili lifted a brow and Kili scowled. "First of all…" Kili huffed. "…there are two children with us. And he is my brother."

"It is not my business. We just ask you handle yourselves appropriately in this public setting." He handed Kili a stack of towels then turned away from them.

"Come on, I'll show you were you can change." Aurias said. He showed them to a changing room where Fili immediately began to strip.

"I cannot wait to get home and into my own clothes." Fili sighed then eyed his brother who was leaning against the wall. "Why aren't you undressing? You're not planning on getting in with your clothes on are you?"

Naufi paused and looked up at his da while Aurias wrapped the towel around himself seeming to not care at all that he was in a changing room with strangers…let alone dwarven strangers.

"I'm fine, Fi. I took a shower this morning."

"Please da?" Naufi asked quietly.

Kili glanced at his son who was looking up at him with Tauriel's eyes…giving him that look he can never say no to. With a heavy sigh, Kili relented and stripped his clothes off, taking the towel and wrapping it around his midsection. It fit…but barely so.

"You have clothes here, Fi." Kili finally said to his brother who paused then smiled.

"My pack. That's right. Is it in Tauri's room?"

Kili nodded. "We can stop by on the way back to the room so you can change."

When they left the changing rooms, there were a few more elves in the pools then there had been, but there were still several free so they took the one furthest away from anyone…since they kept getting odd looks from the bathing elves.

"This is a public area…right?" Fili asked when an elf stepped out of a pool, completely bare, and walked without a towel to the changing room. Makers beard, he wishes he could strip that from his mind. Though he did understand now why they kept getting looks…elves really did have no hair anywhere except for the long hair on the top of their head…none whatsoever. Whereas both Kili and Fili were covered in it almost head to toe. They weren't bears…but compared to elves…it was a startling difference between their species.

"Of course it is." Aurias said. "There's another area for the females. I'm only allowed in with my nana though. Usually I just come here with ada and datheg." Datheg, meaning uncle in Sindarin. "It is much warmer than the cold shower at home." He smiled but Naufi just looked confused. He didn't ask though, because he didn't even want to be here.

When they got to the pool, Aurias got right in, not even pausing as he slid into the warm water. Naufi, however, glanced up once more at his father as if waiting for permission. That was not like Naufi in any way, and it had Kili very worried. "You can go ahead, Naufi." Just for good measure, Kili dipped his toe in and the temperature was indeed warm…but the hot pools in Erebor were definitely warmer.

Naufi nodded and slid in next followed by Fili who sighed happily as he sat on the bench. When Kili settled beside him, he glanced at his brother, then Naufi who sat beside Kili…his head barely above the water.

"Hey Nauf, why don't you go get to know our new little friend? I want to have a few words with your da." Fili said, gesturing to Aurias currently swimming on the other side of the pool. He was playing with a leaf that had fallen into the water.

However, Naufi shook his head and settled closer to Kili. He knew the time he had to be with his father was limited…because once they decided to leave, he would have to say his goodbyes. He didn't want to say goodbye, but he knew he didn't have a choice so he wanted to spend every minute he could with both his mother and father…until they left him behind.

Kili wrapped an arm around Naufi. "Go ahead, Naufi. Here, take the soap. Let me see your beads."

Naufi recoiled as if he was burned when Kili reached out for his family beads causing both Fili and Kili to give him looks of concern. "Naufi, I don't want you to drop them in the water. I will redo your braids when your hair is clean."

Tears gathered in Naufi's eyes but slowly, he nodded and reached for the silver beads he and his brothers all had. Would his pop make him give the beads back when he was banished? Or would he be allowed to keep them if he promised he wouldn't wear them.

Slowly, Naufi pulled the family beads from his braids and handed them to Kili who placed them in a cup in the basket of soaps and cleaning supplies. The little dish was clearly meant for jewelry or other small personal items. He then showed his son how to use the soaps while tying up his own hair. He didn't need to clean it and he was not in the mood for damp hair today.

Once Naufi was clean, Fili again urged him to go talk to the other elf. "You never know, Nauf, you could make a good friend in the forest." Naufi just stared at Fili, then Kili who nodded.

With a bit of heaviness, Naufi moved to the other side of the pool, though he kept looking back at Kili as if he was worried his father would abandon him. Eventually, Aurias pulled Naufi into conversation and he and the elfling just a bit taller than him began to talk amongst themselves.

"Spill." Fili said, once he knew Naufi was distracted. He grabbed some soap, sniffing it and rolling his eyes. "Has to smell like flowers…doesn't it." He grumbled then shrugged as he began to lather it up and work it through his hair. "There is something off about you, and your going to tell me what it is."

"I don't have to tell you anything, Fili." Kili growled as he sat back and closed his eyes. He had zero desire to talk to anyone right now…not even his own brother. These last few days have been among the hardest he has endured next to that time he lost Tauriel on the journey to Erebor. Yet, watching her slowly slip away from him somehow felt worse.

Fili paused, glaring at his brother. He quickly rinsed his hair, giving his brother a second to himself, before he tried again. "What…you think that was a request? I said you are going to tell me, Ki, I wasn't asking you."

"Leave it alone Fili." Kili said in warning.

"Have I ever actually honored that request, Ki?" Fili snorted, then sighed. "Kili…I can't imagine what you are going through right now…" He paused then narrowed his eyes. "You know what…scratch that…I KNOW what you are going through and it's beyond nightmares."

Kili looked away from Fili as he continued. "When I almost lost Viltarra when Vilia was born…I didn't think I was going to be able to get through it. In nearly twenty years, she has become my world, her and my girls. But in just one night I thought she would be taken from me and I am not going to lie…I panicked. I wanted to hate our creator, hate the fates, hate whatever it was that was tearing my wife away from me. I get the circumstances were different…there was no enemy involved, only biology. But the feelings of nearly losing our ones to something out of our control is the same and can drive us to madness. But I had a family to care for, daughters who needed me. I wasn't going to allow myself to break when so many still depended on me. I never once gave up on Viltarra, but I didn't let what was happening take me too. I wasn't there, Ki, but I know…without a doubt, you did everything you could for Tauri. She isn't dead yet, Ki, she's still there."

"For now." Kili said softly, then looked across the pool to his son who was once again looking at him before he glanced back at Aurias who was asking him about what kind of food they eat in the mountain. "I fell asleep…that first night." Kili said, hating he couldn't just keep his mouth shut and pretend he had not experienced a dream or vision so real…it had him constantly questioning if this was reality, or just another tormenting dream. Even though there were so many details slipping from his mind as he tried to remember what he saw in his sleep, he just couldn't grasp what was real anymore.

"It…felt so real, Fi. So…true." Kili watched the bubbles from Fili and Naufi's soap dissipate as the water moved slowly across the pool to a sort of vent where it disappeared from sight. The opposite side had a small waterfall bringing in more warm water keeping the pool continuously clean. It was quite impressive, really, and Kili couldn't help but want to know how it worked so he could see about getting a pool like this in Erebor.

"What did you see?" Fili asked after a moment.

Kili took a long, heavy, breath. "I went to sleep, and when I woke up…Tauriel was gone. She wasn't breathing or moving. Naufi was…Mahal…he was beside himself. I had to have him removed from the room." That part he remembered vividly. "The rest…is a bit vague. I remember having a ceremony…uncle carved Tauriel a tomb cover but I can't recall the details. I guess in short, life moved on. I raised the children, you became king, mam and uncle passed as did Nyaunni. I just…my head felt empty. I felt, every time I reached for her…for Tauriel…she was just, gone. I half expected her to be there somehow…to feel her in some way. But I felt nothing. Just, emptiness. I died, Fi. I remember being old, I remember seeing my children age, despite having no real memory of how they looked. But I can't forget feeling aged and frail, laying in my bed, and closing my eyes for the last time. I woke to Tauriel watching me from the bed in the healers and panicked knowing I would have to live it all again. It's too much Fili. I…it's too much."

Fili just listened, understanding every word, and seeing the pain in his brothers expression. "She hasn't left us, Ki. You have to believe that what you saw…was just a dream. You won't have to live that life because it wasn't real. You have to know that by now."

Kili shrugged. "I want to believe it…but…I don't know, Fi. I just feel as if I will wake up any moment and lose everything."

"You won't lose me." Fili said. "Or Naufi, or Finli and Orin, or Kilion and Ithtiri. Mahal Ki, you haven't even lost Tauriel. She is there, in that hall, fighting like she always does. This may not be a battle of blades and bows…but she is fighting all the same. She will get through this because she knows how much you need her. She knows how much her children need her. Look at Naufi…" Fili gestured to the dwelfling who was only half answering questions. "I have not been back for long, Ki, but I can already tell you something is not right with Naufi. We can normally not get him to stop asking questions or oversharing…but he has barely stopped looking at you and I can tell he isn't saying much over there at all. That's not normal, he needs all of us to be strong or this may be his new normal. Do you want that?"

Kili's answering growl had Fili nodding. "I know you don't Ki, but if you cannot find it in yourself to fight whatever this…thing…is inside you that is pulling you down, then your dream may just become your reality. Maybe…" Fili hummed thoughtfully. "…maybe it was a warning or a message. Have you thought of that? Or it could have just been your mind dealing with the trauma of nearly losing your one. You and Tauriel are…makers beard…you are practically one person. It could have just been something to do with your bond?" He eyed his brother who was now watching him silently. "Whatever it was, Ki, you need to work through it and not let it control you. Talk to me, talk to uncle, talk to Tauriel when she is awake…talk to someone. Talk before it shatters you."

"Shatters." Kili said, feeling the mental tears in his mind. His mind was already shattering. "Fi…I think it already has shattered." He felt a tear fall and land in the water. "I don't know how to fix it."

Fili wrapped his arm around his baby brother and held him close. "I am here for you, we all are, Ki. We will get through this. Be patient with yourself, and don't give up on Tauriel. She's already proven she hasn't given up on us yet…so let's try and have some faith, ya?"

"What if…what if I don't have faith anymore." Kili said softly.

"Then I will have faith for you." Fili answered immediately. "But you need to figure that out, Ki, and before it changes you completely. Has Mahal ever truly abandoned us? Has he ever let us fall?" Kili shook his head and Fili pressed a kiss to Kili's temple. "He's there for us, little brother, and I don't think he's left our elf behind yet either."

There was a soft clearing of the throat and Fili looked up to the elf glaring at him. "I do believe I warned you about personal relations in the public pools. I will have to ask you to remove yourselves. There are children present." Fili gaped at the elf who clasped his hands. "That was an immediate request if you please."

"Is he insinuating what I think he is?" Fili whispered to Kili who was gesturing for Naufi to come as he grabbed their towels.

"I think so." Kili sighed, more than ready to get back to his wife.

Fili gave the elf a disgusted look. "He's my brother!"

"Your interpersonal relations are no concern of mine...but we do have rules." The elf said right back in a bored tone.

Fili huffed as he got out of the pool, not even bothering to wrap himself as he stomped to the changing rooms. He made sure the elf heard that he would be having words with Thranduil about this. The elf only looked mildly startled as the crowned prince passed by.

Kili shook his head, actually a bit amused by the situation. More so because of his brothers reaction than anything. He shook his head and guided his son back to be changed before they made their way up to the rooms with Aurias quietly trailing behind them trying to draw Naufi into more conversations to which Naufi was actually now participating in. Kili couldn't help but smile, hoping his Naufi was still in there somewhere. Maybe if Tauriel recovers, he will come back to himself.

Kili paused, when...not if. When. WHEN Tauriel recovers. She will. She has to. He needs her to. Closing his eyes, Kili saw the fractures filling his mind before he drew right back out. He didn't want to see those, not right now.

Just as the group made it to the top of the steps, none other than Galloron stood eyeing them with a raised brow. "So this is where you were off to, Aurias. I see you are once again making friends."

Aurias smiled. "This is Naufi, datheg. He is a prince in Erebor."

Galloron nodded. "I am aware of who he is. Your father is waiting for you in the hall to take you home for supper."

The elfling nodded and smiled at Naufi, bowing his head respectfully. "Well met, Naufi. If you're bored, and I am not in lessons, send me a message. I can show you around if your father allows it."

Naufi took Kili's hand, not answering. Instead, he just waived halfheartedly as the dwarfling walked into the healing hall to likely find a parent. Kili eyed his son worriedly as he clung to Kili. This was something Kilion would do...but never Naufi.

"I have been instructed to inform you we have rooms prepared for you in the royal halls." Galloron said before Kili could say anything to Naufi. "Tauriel of course will remain in the healers quarters for as long as they deem necessary...but we wanted to ensure you all had a place to stay that was close by to rest and refresh. Use them as you will."

"Thank you." Kili said truthfully. He had no plans on leaving his wife, but he was grateful to have somewhere to clean up and maybe take Naufi so he could get some real rest. "We have some things in Tauriel's old chambers, I will move them over after dinner."

Galloron nodded. "When you are ready, just go to the royal hall...the guards will point you to your rooms. I must go, so I bid you a good evening." He turned to leave but paused and twisted back around. "If I may ask...would you give Tauriel my best? I know historically we do not have the best past. But over the years, I have quite come to admire her and her grandfather. I rather regret how I treated her when she dwelled here. She has many traits I find to be quite, empowering."

Kili stared at Galloron for several seconds, then nodded. He had grown to respect the elf over the last few decades despite how aloof he could be. "I think you ought to tell her yourself...but I will relay the message."

The elf nodded and swiftly turned to leave as Kili and Fili walked in, Naufi still gripping Kili's hand. As they entered the room, Tauriel was still asleep. She had not woken yet, but Ivethin had said not to worry...so Kili tried to push his fears down and sat. He told his uncle about the rooms, both Naurfaer and Thorin excusing themselves to see where they where at. Naurfaer even volunteering to move Kili, Fili, and Tauriel's belongings that were still in Tauriel's old chambers into the new one for them. Kili was beyond grateful.

It left Viltarra, Fili, and Naufi in the room with Kili…at least for a few moments. Kili noticed Viltarra leaning into Fili and saying something before she stood. Fili stood as well, both turning to the door. "Hey, Ki, were going to get this little one some milk. Do you mind if we step out?"

Kili shook his head and Fili smiled. "She's going to be fine Ki." He said then slowly stepped out to find a healer or Ivethin. With the chaos of the night before, they opted to make do with the supplies they had for the infant…but those were now nearly out and Taurion needed food more than anything.

Fili glanced around, but paused as Bofur came walking over looking beyond exhausted. "You okay, Bofur? Didn't they give you a room last night?" He was sure their friend and loyal companion would be given accommodations and food.

"Aye. They did. Bu' I spent a better part of the last few hours filling Dwalin and Aeodhen in. We may have had a few drinks…bu' it weren't what I thought it was. Can't seem to sleep a wink yet I am bone tired lad. Thought I would come see Tauri before beggin' a healer for some sleepin' remedy ta get me through the night."

Fili chuckled. "I am sure Ki would love a visit, but Tauri is still sleeping. Go on in, I am sure he will be fine with it. Maybe you can cheer Naufi up a bit, the little ones always smile when they see you."

"Thanks lad, I'll give it a shot." Bofur yawned and patted Fili on the shoulder as he passed by to Tauriel's room as Viltarra pulled Fili into the main area of the massive hall.

Since the return of the injured, the healer's hall was a swarm of activity. It took awhile for Fili to flag a healer down and explain the situation, and even longer before another healer came rushing over with a basket filled with herbs and bottles of liquid. "Prince Fili, and Lady Viltarra. Please forgive the wait…Ivethin is resting, as she should, but said you will be coming by some time this evening. She wished me to give you this." She handed Viltarra the basket. "Take the dried herbs with each meal starting tonight, and a tincture of the liquid in the morning and in the night until you are able to nurse. You may become fatigued, but if you feel ill, do not continue to take it."

"Thank you." Viltarra said gratefully. "And the baby? We wanted him to be checked over by…someone in Mirkwood…to make sure he was alright after traveling so young." She handed her son to the eleth who took them to a free space and proceeded to spend nearly a quarter hour checking him over. He was most unpleased to be away from the dam he considered his mother and let the healer know just how unhappy he was with his powerful lungs.

The healer chuckled. "He shares his opinions most vocally." She said. "He appears to be small, but in good health. I am sure once he eats more, he will grow to a more healthy size. Do you have any questions for me?"

Both Fili and Viltarra shook their heads. "I have three daughters." Viltarra said. "And Tauriel is available for any questions I may have once she is feeling better."

"The captain would be a good source to go to, and I have been told she is doing far better than expected given her circumstances." The eleth nodded, eyeing the pair. "You two seem tired and you have had quite the journey. Many here are whispering your names with great respect. Heroes they are calling you for what you have done for our people. I do not think we can relay our gratitude in a way that is equal to what you have done." She bowed her head respectfully. "Why don't you get something to eat and rest. Are you to journey to Erebor soon?"

Fili sighed and shook his head. "That is yet to be decided. It will depend on Tauriel more than anything. We haven't discussed it yet."

"Alright. Stay here a moment. I will see that you get enough milk to get through the night and we shall go from there. He should be eating continuosly until he gets to be a more stable weight." The healer stepped away, but came back after about a half hour later. "Forgive the wait." She sighed. "I got pulled into a room." She looked distraught as she placed two large glass bottles of milk in the basket of herbs.

"Is everything alright?" Fili asked.

The healer paused. "I do not know. We have many who went through horrors in that land, who will never come back to Mirkwood again. Their bodies may be here, but their spirits will forever be cursed to live through their pains until they go to the undying lands."

"NELITHI!" Both Fili and Viltarra looked around the elf as a commotion at the front of the halls caught their attention. "NELITHI! Is she here? Where is my sister?"

The healer excused herself and ran to the distraught Nagar who looked frantic. "Calm yourself Nagar, you are upsetting the injured."

Ivethin came rushing in from the hall where she set up a room, though others told her it was being handled and to rest, Ivethin still gently pushed them away and took Nagar by the hand. "Come, Nagar, she is here." Nagar, who looked more disheveled than Fili had ever seen an elf look, followed her back down the hall into the more private room just across from Tauriel's. With the doors currently thrown wide open, Fili had the perfect view of the hall where his sisters room resided. He heard more sobs but that was it. Though Tork did walk out looking a bit lost and took a seat on the floor outside the room.

"Do you think he's alright?" Viltarra asked, having met Nagar back in Dale while Fili was lost under the city. He was an unusual elf…but not disagreeable.

"Which one? Tork…or Nelithi's brother?" Fili asked. He really didn't know Nagar much at all outside a few instances…but he has heard his brother complain about him once or twice…or alot. Who knew Kili could be the jealous type? Well he should know considering there were one or two instances Kili got so drunk, he vented to his brother about Legolas and some un-grounded fears that he will somehow steal Tauriel away from him one day.

Honestly, Kili could be so ridiculous sometimes. As if Tauriel would ever even look at anyone else. Even when Kili was spitting drunk and making a spectacle of himself…Tauriel has that adoring look in her eyes as she watches him. It's both endearing…and nauseating. He wonders if they realize just how they look from the outside…like they are in their own world whenever they are together.

When the healer came back she looked wary. "Forgive me for running off. There are many family members just finding out of the return and seeking their loved ones." A female eleth came in next, tears falling down her face as she called out a name several times until a healer approached her.

The healer sighed and continued. "It may take the day before we are able to match everyone up…longer if their family is in the deeper parts of the city. This is the primary healers halls…though there are a few other smaller ones scattered through Mirkwood. Now…" She clasped her hands as she gestured to Taurion. "…if you should have any further questions or needs, do not hesitate to stop any healer in these halls in passing. They will either help you, or point you to someone who can."

Viltarra nodded, picking her son up off the table while Fili grabbed the basket for her. "Can I ask…" She said before the healer would turn to leave them. "…we have wargs…two…they are of the wild variety but quite tame and clean. Well, can be cleaned. If we bathe them keep them in our room, may we have permission to bring them in? I do not like the idea of them being outside the halls on their own. They will cause no harm to anyone here, but I hate not being able to keep an eye on them."

The eleth lifted her brow. "Wargs? In the city?"

"Domesticated." Viltarra said.

"One of them at least." Fili grumbled but cleared his throat when Viltarra glared at him and stamped his toe. "Right…yes…both of them. Though I was TOLD one was wild…I think I have been swindled. He is about as wild as a barn cat….just a bit larger."

"Wargs are very large…" The eleth said, eyeing the pair skeptically.

"Not these kind!" Viltarra immediately interrupted. "Yes, the ones bred and altered by the orcs are large enough to ride…but Hiril is not much larger than your average wolf…and Dungael is even smaller than she is."

"A wolf…" The healer hummed then sighed. "If they are clean and remain in the rooms you reside in…and do not disturb any of the sick or injured…I do not see why they cannot come inside. It is rather cold this winter. But do understand this is a healers halls. It is important to keep things clean and peaceful for both the patients and their families. We will ask them to removed if there is any problems."

"There won't be." Viltarra quickly promised. "I will personally see them both cleaned before they come in."

The healer nodded, then moved away to join a group gathered around one of the elves who had woken and was shaking uncontrollably.

"You're going to bathe Dungael?" Fili asked narrowing his eyes at Viltarra.

Viltarra huffed and moved back towards the room. "Yes. I am. I would like a shower myself so I thought I would go see these new rooms we have and get cleaned up. Do you want to come?" She smiled up at Fili who grinned back…but it faltered a bit.

"I do need to change out of these clothes. I had wanted to after that bath, but we came directly here instead of stopping at Tauri's chambers. Speaking of which, I want to check back in on Tauriel as well…but then we can go." He nodded to a healer in passing as he gripped the basket tightly. "Mahal I pray she will be alright."

Viltarra smiled again. "She will be, I know how strong she is. I just…I think she will just have a lot of healing to do." She paused and lifted her eyes to Fili. "It is Kili I am most concerned for."

Fili let out a deep, heavy, breath. "Ya. Me too."

Authors Note: See, a little bit better. At least everyone is together. Kili's a bit of a mess…he just needs to figure his stuff out. You can hate me a little less now, okay? As IF I would kill off my favorite character before the big war. I mean…I could if I wanted to I suppose…hmmm. Anyway, we also got a name for the little one and yes, he is being kept. I always wanted Fili to have a son, but not in the conventional sense because I also wanted his children to be primarily girls. As for the name, it was really a hard choice but in the end, I wanted to honor Tauriel. Just like her, he lost his family at birth, but unlike her, he will be raised with love. Its kind of a redemption and a way to connect them I guess. Still, I like the name Taurion. I think I keep the pet name, Kandith though. I really didn't want to officially name him warg puppy, LOLLSSS.

Anyway, I got homework and stuff to do, I was just trying to get this out to ya. I'll try to have the next one out early next week.