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.

12. ACT I Chapter TWELVE

Updated October 21st, 2021

Original Authors Note: Here it is! I will see you at the end. :)

Chapter 12

"When is she going to come out?"

Tauriel chuckled as she sat in Shaada's sitting room, peering down at the small dwarfling rubbing her little hand on her belly. "What makes you think it is a she?"

Hillanna looked up at Tauriel. "Because. You are a princess. So it must be a her." Tauriel laughed at the little dwarflings logic. Once again, she will be most disappointed.

"I think it is a boy." Hillanna glared at Riffi who was laying on the ground with some parchment and some colored wax sticks.

Since her incident, Tauriel had been constantly attended to by friends and by her family. She cannot remember the last time she was truly alone, which she was not complaining about in any way.

Tauriel had just come to Shaada's after having lunch with Dis who had joined her to see Aeodhen's wife and children. Dis was currently bouncing Tauren in her lap, the babe giggling and attempting to get a grasp on Dis's braids whenever he was close enough.

Shaada looked down at her daughter and laughed softly. "We will know soon enough." Hillanna sighed and nodded, as Shaada looked back at Tauriel. "Any luck with names yet?" Tauriel smiled brightly and nodded.

"She and Kili have chosen one, finally, but they are keeping it to themselves." Dis related, causing Shaada to smile knowingly. Naming a babe is, special, and it is not unheard of to withhold the decided upon name until the child's entrance into this world.

Tauriel sighed happily. "I think it is quite perfect. It was Kili's choice, but this one seems to truly love it."

This was true. Kili had been scouring books and bringing her names one right after another. Dwarvish, elvish, mannish, none seemed to fit though, and both wondered if they were doomed to have to wait until he was born to pick a name. For the most part, Thorin and Dis left him alone with name choices, but Naurfaer was relentless in trying to get the babe named after himself.

Kaw had come in and left a message that Naurfaer wanted to see Kili, and having nothing better to do, Kili made his way slowly to Naurfaer's chambers. Inside, the elf stood proudly over a large piece of parchment on his table, Kili looking down at it curiously. "What is this?"

Naurfaer sniffed indignantly. "Don't you know a family tree when you see one? I thought dwarves were very into family lines and ties."

Kili looked from the elf to the parchment. "Yes. You are not wrong, but…this only has five names on it." It was true. It had Naurfaer listed in very, VERY large letters at the top…in gold leaf…then his daughter Ithildin, and her husband Findyyr underneath Naurfaer's, followed by Tauriel and Kili just below them. A line beneath his and Tauriel's name held an open spot for their soon to be son.

Naurfaer looked at the tree and shrugged. "I see nothing missing."

Kili sighed, not in the mood for Tauriel's grandfather's peculiarities at the moment. "Naurfaer, it is supposed to have your parents too. You do have parents, don't you? Plus there's at least one name missing. It does take two to…you know." He gestured to Ithildin's name with a suggestive wag of his brows.

The elf looked at Kili then scrunched up his nose in thought. First, his parents…ya…he never had those, and two, he was in no way bringing Ithildin's mother up that was much too long ago, and even more painful to remember. "Nope. I just remember waking up and I was here."

Kili coughed and stared at the elf. "Are you telling me, you have no parents and you have been around…what…since elves first came to middle earth?"

Naurfaer lifted his hands in annoyance. "Look, enough about me and my existence. You have a name to choose, one that would do your child great honor. I know what Tauriel is leaning towards, so I thought I would…help you along the same path."

Looking back at the…did he say it was a family tree? It looked more like a twig to Kili really, especially compared to his own that took well over three yards of parchment to fully encompass all of his ancestors back to Durin the Deathless. He could not wait to add his sons name onto that. But, Naurfaer was right about one thing, he needed a name to write down.

Kili sighed, readjusted his crutches under his arms trying to get more comfortable, then read the names again. "Naurfaer, what was your daughter like?" The red-headed elf's eyes fell on Ithildin's name. His little beauty.

"Not much unlike Tauriel really. Both were spirited but kind. They knew what they wanted and asked no one before going after it. That is how she met Findyyr. She had snuck out from our home one day, and found herself surrounded by a pack of wild wargs. Findyyr saved her life. He tended to do that a lot, Ithildin had a habit of finding trouble…she seems to have passed that trait to Tauriel." Kili chuckled and looked down at the names again, his mind taking in each as he thought about Tauriel's mother and father.

Chewing his lip, a habit he was beginning to form from his wife, Kili then thought about his own family. His brother would likely like to use his father's name, Vili, so Kili did not want to take that from Fili. Besides, Kili did not know anything about his father apart from the stories he was told. Thorin was the dwarf that raised him, he was Kili's father. Kili thought about naming their son after Thorin, but that did not seem right either.

Kili circled back to his own father. Vili. His mam had said he was a lot like Fili. Quirky, kind, funny, and intelligent. He wishes he could have gotten to know him. Tauriel's father too. He only had a few moments to speak to the elf in Valinor, and even in that short time he could already tell Findyyr was a warm-hearted being.

Kili wonders if somewhere in the afterlife, now that their families are tied, if Vili and Findyyr have met, looking down on Kili and Tauriel as two fathers wishing they had a chance to know their children. The young prince sighed to himself, Findyyr and Vili, two beings who should have had a chance to be fathers, but both losing their lives to orcs and darkness way before their time.

Suddenly, Kili's eyes widened as he looked up at Naurfaer. "HA! I got it, and it is PERFECT! Why had I not thought of it before! Excuse me Naurfaer…and thank you."

As fast as he could on crutches, Kili left the room to find Tauriel, Naurfaer smiling widely in his wake. He did it! He won Kili over! Now to get those blankets embroidered. He hummed to himself as he pulled out some string and went to work.

Kili went directly to Tauriel, took both her hands, and told her of his idea. She pulled Kili into a deep kiss, smashing their lips together in her excitement. It was exactly what they were looking for. She pulled back as their little one gave a kick and Tauriel laughed, saying the babe loved it too.

Shaada's chuckle brought Tauriel back to the present, the dam shaking her head. "I suppose we will just have to wait until that one is born to find out." The expecting mother smiled knowingly behind her cup of tea, and conversation moved to the upcoming celebration with Dale and Mirkwood that was to happen just before Yule.

"Are you sure about this Viltarra? I have never heard of it before now." Viltarra nodded at Leotti who was adding another layer of lace to a dress just large enough to fit an infant. They were sitting on the floor of her closed shop, surrounded by material and several baskets of snacks.

"It was done in many of the cities where men dwelled, usually the more prosperous ones. I think it is a way of…honoring...the mother and passing gifts. I told Fili about it last week, and he was all for it. He said he will make some of her favorite finger foods while Dis handled getting the sitting room prepared and passing the message to Thorin and the company. Dis and him were in the kitchen this morning already getting the food prepped. When I left to come down here after lunch, he said they should have everything ready in about an hour. Shaada, Taada, Dis, my mother, Naurfaer and Thorin's company are all getting the final preparations completed as we speak. It is just up to us to keep Tauriel busy for a bit longer then head up. What are you doing anyway?" Viltarra scrutinized the pile of dresses her friend kept adding to.

Leotti was placing the now finished infant gown on a growing pile beside a basket she had lined with soft colors. "I am preparing my own gift for Tauri's baby. These just needed a few finishing touches before she arrives here. Where is Tauri anyway? I am assuming she was not in the chamber, or she would certainly catch on to what was happening."

"She was already gone when I went to have lunch with Fili. He said she was visiting Galaddal with Naurfaer, then going to see Oin." Leotti hummed in response as she set yet another dress in her basket of finished pieces. Viltarra shook her head and rolled her eyes. "Those are all girl clothes Leotti. What if Tauriel is having a boy?"

"A boy? Hah. No way. It is definitely a girl. "Leotti scoffed and then began ticking off her reasoning, "Tauri is always wanting cake and your sweet buns, so she is constantly craving sweets. Even before Gildridd." Leotti shuddered but pressed on. "Which is synonymous with carrying a girl. She kept getting all that…motion sickness on our trek to Erebor…also girl, she has been incredibly moody…don't tell her I said that…which is also an indication she is having a girl."

Viltarra gaped at Leotti. "Where exactly did you get your information?"

Leotti huffed in response and folded her arms, the dress she had been hemming falling to her lap as she did. "They are well known facts Vil, tried, true, and tested. Where have you been?"

Viltarra pointed at Leotti in annoyance. "Don't call me that, and I am pretty sure those are old wives' tales Leotti. I would not be so quick to give them any credit. You should probably add some boy things into that basket, just in case."

What Viltarra did not say, however, is Fili may have…slipped it to her that Tauriel was having a boy when they were out on a walk the other day. He had also told her she had to keep that to herself under lock and key or face the hostile eleth's wrath. What neither of them considered, however, is Leotti's ability to figure out when things are being kept from her and extract said information.

Looking away from Leotti, Viltarra grabbed a bun from the basket beside her and began nibbling on it as they waited for Tauriel to join them. She loved her friend, but she also knew the very pregnant elf would devour every, single, cheese bun, placed in front of her. So, Viltarra decided she better get at least one before Tauriel arrived.

Looking back up at Leotti, about to offer her one, Viltarra was suddenly startled back by olive eyes and blond braids not even an inch from her face. "What. Do. You. Know?! Spill!" Viltarra leaned back, trying to escape the mad seamstress. "You know something Viltarra! What is it!" Losing her balance, Viltarra fell backwards onto the floor in her attempt to get away, Leotti hovering over her refusing to let up.

"Do you two need a moment or shall I come in now?" Both blondes looked up from their positions, Viltarra on the ground and Leotti from practically on top of Viltarra.

With a bit of force, Leotti was pushed back by the blonde baker who stood and dusted off her trousers and blouse. Leotti had been "trying" to get her to dress more…feminine. She still had not won the dress battle, but Viltarra did quite enjoy wearing a bodice, and what it did to Fili…his lingering looks and heated gazes that is…so she happily accepted any Leotti threw at her. The trousers and boots remained for now. So just after adjusting her bodice and belt around her waist, Viltarra narrowed her eyes at the other dam.

Leotti was not done, however, and ignored Viltarra as she glared up at Tauriel, who was sniffing the air and homing in on the basket of cheese buns covered on the ground with wanting eyes. "TAURI! How did Viltarra know you are having a boy before me?"

Viltarra's eyes went wide as Tauriel's snapped from the basket to her friend. "I did not know Viltarra knew?" She turned to the baker, her expression full of confusion and question. "How did you come to find out?"

Before Viltarra could answer, Leotti beamed at Tauriel. "So you ARE having a boy!" The small seamstress bounced on her toes and leaned down to her basket, thinking and reconsidering the contents, then grabbing everything up in her arms before Tauriel could see what she was doing, and dancing into the back room singing out. "Be right back!"

Viltarra sighed and rested her hands on her hips while Tauriel looked beyond puzzled at what was happening. "I am sorry. I am confused. Did she know or did she not know?" She looked back at the workroom door where Leotti was running from one end to the other, then at Viltarra who was shaking her head and lifting a brow at her elven friend.

"I think YOU just told her." Viltarra deadpanned causing the elf to think back on her words and groan. She really needed to stop underestimating Leotti.

Tauriel sighed and scrutinized her friend. "Fili told you, didn't he?"

Viltarra shuffled her feet, but nodded. "I did not tell Leotti though, I merely suggested she stop assuming you were having a girl. She just…"

"Jumped to conclusions and tried to force what you did know out of you?" Viltarra nodded and Tauriel hummed knowingly. It was only a matter of time before Leotti figured out others knew, so Tauriel turned a smile to Viltarra. "Don't worry, I am not upset. It is nice to share this with my friends. Just, don't tell the others."

"I didn't want to tell Leotti. She attacked." Viltarra huffed, and Tauriel laughed as Kaw came flying through the open window above the shop door, dropping down on the counter and folding his growing wings into himself. "Bell ring!" He croaked.

Tauriel groaned and Viltarra scrutinized the bird then turned her questioning eyes to Tauriel. "Bell ring? What does that mean?"

"That…would be Kili." Viltarra gave Tauriel another questioning look. Tauriel sat against the counter and scratched Kaw's head, launching into her tale.

Ring. Ring. Ring. Ring. She loved her husband, truly she did, but Kili had grown accustomed to that ringing bell Dis had given him. She understood he could not move from the bed easily, but did he have to keep ringing for someone?

Fili grumbled from beside the stove. "I believe the great prince is summoning us. You should probably be the one to go, because if I go, I might just make him eat that stupid bell."

The majority of Tauriel's day had been spent attending a meeting between several of the trading elves from Mirkwood, and Thorin, who had asked her and Naurfaer to be present for obvious reasons, then she had tea with Dis, and finally she had met with Oin who had her on twice a week check-ups which were usually with Kili in their room. However, since she was not far from his office, she had stopped by to see him rather than making Oin trek up to the royal wing unnecessarily.

Apparently, whenever she was gone, Kili had been ringing for others non-stop, and Fili had about had it.

Taking a deep breath, Tauriel walked into her room and stared at her reason for being. He was smiling endearingly at her, the bell he was about to ring again held firmly in his grip. Tauriel lifted a brow as he placed it on the table. "You rang, meleth nin?"

Kili beamed and readjusted his leg propped up on the pillow. "Oh. Yes. I was just checking on lunch. Fili said he would make it for me, and I am withering away here, amralime. I fear I should be a streak of nothing if I wait any longer."

Tauriel sighed. According to Fili, and in her personal experience, her husband rang for food, water, books, drawing paper, pens, more food, for someone to adjust his pillows, and he even rang and asked Tauriel for a sponge bath once…once. The last request was before Tauriel had given his shoulder the okay to move again and was met with a bucket of water thrown over his head by the temperamental eleth who was having a long day. She did feel incredibly guilty…eventually…and apologized profusely an hour later after her temper cooled.

Tauriel sat at the end of the bed and leveled her husband with a pointed look. "Kili, you can get out of this room now and Fili is just down the hallway. Do you really need that bell anymore?"

As if he was summoned, Fili walked in just as Tauriel finished speaking, a tray held in his hands. "Excellent." Kili rubbed his palms together as Fili handed him his lunch then turned and snatched the bell from the bedside table. "Hey! Mam gave me that, what are you doing Fi?"

Fili, however, ignored his brother and stepped to the veranda door, opened it, and chucked the bell over the balcony where it tumbled down the side of the mountain and out of sight. He walked back into the room, gave Kili and Tauriel a low bow, and left the chamber without a single word.

"I think he is mad." Kili observed.

Tauriel sighed and shook her head. "You think?" She smiled and stood, walking to her side of the bed then crawling in, scooting herself to sit beside Kili, then proceeded to eat half his lunch.

Not to be deterred by the loss of his bell, Kili soon came up with another plan. Tauriel had not even realized what it was until she came into the room several days later to see Kaw resting on Kili's good knee, which he had bent up, so the bird was on eye level with him. "No Kaw, don't SAY 'bell ring', just make the sound of a bell ring…I know you can do it."

"Bell ring! Ada. Bell ring." The raven chimed back causing Kili to sigh but pat the bird affectionately.

Tauriel lifted a brow and folded her arms, leaning against the doorframe to their room. "What exactly are you doing with our raven, meleth nin?"

Kili started but looked sheepishly at his wife. "Nothing. Kaw and I are just having a…vocabulary lesson."

"Indeed. One consisting of a ringing bell?" Tauriel hummed, before pushing off the doorframe and coming into the room. She did not have time to ask more, and Kili was saved from having to further explain when Oin walked in, halting the entire conversation…which was probably for the best.

As it turned out, however, Kili had been training their growing raven to act as his personal bell, and Kaw was more than willing to do so. He could be seen on a regular basis, swooping through the mountain on Kili's bidding, landing on anyone who Kili wanted with a low croaked, "Bell ring!"

Viltarra smirked at Tauriel's obvious annoyance when she finished her story. "I cannot fault him Viltarra, he is all but celled up in one hall for weeks, and my Kili has never sat still well and hates being so…sedentary. But, did he really need to train Kaw to be his personal bell?" They would soon come to find out, the raven not only happily adopted the task, but loved the phrase so much, he would utter it upon landing no matter where he was going or doing.

Leotti popped out and looked to the raven and back at the other two in her shop. Kaw hopped up and down seeing her, and hollered, "Bell ring! Leo!" Leotti jumped at the sound and Tauriel shook her head. "Don't ask."

Viltarra made the connection and realized it was the boys sending the okay to bring Tauriel up. She straitened, then sent a knowing look at Leotti over Tauriel's shoulder, who quickly figured it out as well.

"Right. Come on! Who wants to be holed up inside on a day like this? Let's go for a walk before the weather turns. The day I guessed for the birth is coming up and I heard going for walks can get labor started." The small dam smiled invitingly at Tauriel. "Viltarra even brought a few things we can picnic on…including your favorite cheese buns." Grabbing a small cloak then picking up her own basket, Leotti shoved the two out the door without giving either of them much of a choice. She then locked her shop door shut behind her.

"Leotti, this is not the way to the gate, and it is winter. Do you really think a picnic is appropriate?" Tauriel grumbled. Funny enough, and despite her growing need to keep moving lately, she was not in the mood for a walk, but was even less inclined to argue with the formidable Leotti.

The small seamstress rolled her eyes. "No, but you need a coat or Kili will have my ears…and you like being outside, so I do not want to hear any complaints about a picnic." Leotti sent Viltarra a hidden wink, the dam shaking her head as she readjusted the several heaping baskets in her arms and trailed her two friends through the market, and up towards the royal wing.

The three nodded at the guards and made their way up the stairs before Viltarra opened the door to the common sitting room and stepped aside for Tauriel to come through first. The young baker has been getting slowly more comfortable with making the trip up to the royal wing, though she still had nightmares of Thorin hauling her off to the dungeons under the mountain once again. Viltarra shook off her anxiety and watched as Tauriel entered the common area.

The eleth stopped in shock when she finally got a look at her families sitting room. The entire area was filled with all of her friends and family. Baskets, packages, and chests where piled high beside the chaise, and a table had been pulled away from the far wall and over filled with all of the foods she had been craving this last month, including several platters of her most beloved butter cake. Viltarra walked over and added cheese buns to the end of the table then went to stand beside Fili, who wrapped her in his arms from behind, pulling her back to his chest but keeping his eyes on his sister who was tearing up, her lower lip trembling in the most un-elflike way.

"Don't cry amralime!" Kili came forward slowly on his crutches, and took her hand in his.

"What is all this?" Came her soft reply. She looked up at an excited Naurfaer and…was that Legolas? The elven prince smirked from where he stood beside her grandfather. That, only made her cry harder.

"Who had cryin'?" Nori called out.

"I had angry!" Gloin stared from beside Dori who said he had shocked, Bofur said speechless, and Bifur signed he had fainted.

"That would be me! Pay up!" Tauriel looked to Fili who had lifted an arm from Viltarra and waited for Nori to hand over the pouch of gold. Viltarra completely pulled away, smacked him on the arm, and took the gold from him the minute it was placed in his hand.

"Hey! I won that fair and square!" Fili sniffed indignantly.

"At her expense." Viltarra huffed and tossed the gold pouch to Tauriel who glared at Fili and placed the gold in one of her pockets. The room erupted with laughter and Fili folded his arms.

Vin and Tarrah stood beside Fili, both chuckling at him. "Ya got a lot to learn lad." Vili chortled, shaking his head at the young prince and the room once again erupted with laughter.

When everything finally calmed once more, Dis came forward and placed a hand on Tauriel's thin shoulder. "Viltarra told us about something she has seen others do in cities and settlements they have been in, a gathering to celebrate you and the baby before the child comes. We wanted to do this for you my daughter, to celebrate you, and the gift you carry. Come. Sit." Dis grabbed her hand, Tauriel going willingly to the chaise where she was pushed down gently by her amad who turned to her eldest son. "Fili? Bring her a plate please dear, you know what she likes."

Fili nodded and grabbed a plate, filling it with Tauriel's favorites…including a few cheese buns and several pieces of warm butter cake, then passed it to the elf. Once the guest of honor was taken care of, everyone else was soon gathered at the table to get their fair share of the copious bounty of food.

Kili sat beside his wife, given his own plate after nearly getting stabbed from attempting to take food from hers. Who knew how fast Tauriel could whip out a blade at over twelve months pregnant and sitting? Kili did…that is who.

"What did you put down for the wager?" Tauriel lifted her head to Naurfaer who was speaking to Legolas a few feet from her.

"Another six weeks. Elves go for about fourteen months I have been told, or just under that." The elven prince instantly had to duck as a dagger flew at him, landing in an empty chair not an inch from where Legolas had been standing.

"Don't you wish that on me Legolas Greenleaf!" The elf gaped at her wide eyed. Tauriel was done. She was tired, sore, had to use the washroom twice as much as she had the month before, and the only position she could get comfortable in, Kili's broken leg prohibited! It was difficult enough she had to wait another two to three weeks, let alone SIX!

The room was silent and tense before Bofur yelled out, "Presents! How 'bout we do presents!" The hatted dwarf danced towards the pile of gifts and pulled one off the top, then passed it to Tauriel, forcing her to give up her plate and her ire at the blonde elf in order to take the box in her hands. Attention was diverted as everyone found a seat either in a chair or on the floor. Fili sat on the ground beside his uncle who had given up his chair to Shaada, Aeodhen standing behind her.

Fili looked to Viltarra who was plating another bun for herself then turned towards the group to seek out a seat to watch. Catching her attention, Fili patted the ground between his legs, but Viltarra eyed him warily, her eyes shooting to Thorin beside him before she gave Fili a subtle shake of the head 'no'.

Fili, however, was not to be deterred, and pointed eagerly to the spot once again. Just as she was about to say no, Viltarra was helped along by her mother who pushed her towards Fili, and the young dam finally gave in with a sigh. She lowered herself to the ground and shifted until she sat snugly between his legs, and tried to relax as she leant back against him.

Despite the young baker's apprehension, however, Thorin did not seem to care, as apart from a quick glance their way, his eyes were locked on Tauriel and Kili. So, Viltarra forced her breathing to slow down and tried to calm her erratic heart galloping in her chest, then picked at her cheese bun as she turned her attention to Tauriel and Kili as well.

Fili chuckled deeply and locked his arms around her tightly before kissing her head, though he too turned his attention to his brother and sister.

Dis, on the other hand, eyed them with tight lips. Rules, she thought, they needed rules. She would definitely need to sit them both down and speak to Fili and Viltarra about rules and standards. That can wait for another day, sooner rather than later by the looks of it, but right now her focus was on her daughter.

For the next hour, Tauriel opened gift after gift. Some were toys, some were blankets, there were even a few cloth wrappings. She smiled widely when Fili tossed her a small box with a wooden wolf perfectly carved inside. "I did it myself." Fili beamed.

"It is lovely, muindor, you did a wonderful job." Tauriel passed the gift to Kili who inspected it with an impressed eye, it was very detailed, Fili did an amazing job. He placed it back in the box for safe keeping and watched as Tauriel was handed yet another gift.

As it turns out, several gifts later, there was another gift their brother was involved in. Thorin, with Fili's help, had crafted Tauriel a rocking chair made from carved wood and shaped iron. Now that, had made Tauriel cry again, as Thorin stood to pull it over to her. It was truly a work of art. She instantly stood and pulled Thorin into her arms, thanking him profusely, then sent Fili, who was still on the floor, a watery smile. Needless to say, she spent the remainder of the gift opening sitting in her new rocking chair.

Not wanting to be far from her, Kili moved to the chair just beside her, Legolas giving it up to the dwarven prince and moving to the chaise they had just vacated. Before he sat down, however, Kili surprised Tauriel with a cradle he had done with his own hand while she had been out of the wing. He had used Fili's room so Tauriel would not see it while he worked on it. Fili would get him all the materials, but Kili did all the work. She awarded Kili with a deep kiss. It was beautiful and solid, it was perfect.

Next, Dis stepped forward with a bundle and passed it to Kili and Tauriel. "This is a joint effort between Naurfaer and I." She stood beside the older elf who placed an arm around Dis's shoulders as they both waited patiently.

Tauriel untied the ribbon and Kili helped pull a patchwork quilt from the wrappings. Looking closely, it held a story of their adventure right up to gaining the mountain. Excluding some gruesome scenes. It had all the places they visited, a few images of trolls and thunder giants, and a square representing each one in the company including the wizard Gandalf, and the hobbit Bilbo. Both will be visiting for the celebration before Yule. "Thank you, both of you, this is…beyond words. It is indescribably beautiful." Dis smiled and walked to give both Kili and Tauriel a kiss on the forehead before going to sit beside Thorin.

Fili had received a look from Tauriel AND Viltarra when apart from the completed wolf carving, he also gave her a wrapped box containing a knife. "Babies first dagger Tauri!" He had proclaimed excitedly.

Kili was laughing as Tauriel inspected the blade. It was well made, had a beautifully designed hilt, and etchings depicting their Durin blood line on the blade. "Certainly more for when he or she is older, but thank you Fili. This is impressively made." Fili beamed even if Viltarra was still giving him an 'unbelievable' look from between his legs.

"My father sends his congratulations as well." Legolas stood and passed a bundle to Tauriel, inside was an elven made blanket, an infant gown, a wooden carved rattle, and a small mobile with carved figures of an elk, a star, a tree, a gem, an axe, what looked like a mountain, and a bow hung on delicate strings. "I made that. Thought you might like something that resembled both of its parentage." Tauriel passed the mobile to Kili who examined it with an impressed eye. She stood and gave Legolas a hug, touched by his kindness.

Tauriel then laughed as Leotti gave her a basket of clothes, making sure to throw some dresses in there for good measure, but she had found several things suitable for a girl or a boy, and a small note too stating she would be making some outfits worthy of a prince of Erebor, causing Tauriel to chuckle. Tauriel would not doubt Leotti would be filling her rooms with far more baby clothes than she would have need for.

As the evening progressed, more and more gifts were pushed at the expecting couple. Viltarra and her parents gave them a bound book they can put the baby's firsts in, Bofur and Bifur made some toys…of course, Shaada and Taada knitted some hats and little boots for the baby, Gimli was present too, and with his dad, crafted a small decorative axe for the nursery. Oin even gave Tauriel some tinctures of healing balms and oils to aid in her recovery after the birth.

Kili and Tauriel were both brimming with the love they felt from all in the room. It was several hours later that Tauriel was hugging each one of them goodbye and thanking them for everything.

Finally, the room had emptied…apart from the now massive pile of toys, clothes, blankets, and numerous other gifts. Although, Oin had remained behind to fill Kili in on how Tauriel's check-up had gone that morning, since the prince was not able to attend himself.

According to Oin, everything was in order, the baby was progressing well, Tauriel had put back on a healthy amount of weight…though he still felt she could easily put on some more even if she was an elf, and he estimates the little one should be ready to come sometime within the next three or four weeks.

Kili beamed, taking Tauriel's hand in his and kissing it. He knew this was harder on her than anyone. "Thank you Oin." The old healer nodded his head at Kili, but before he left he made sure Tauriel knew what to expect for the delivery itself, since it was certainly upcoming.

For the most part, Tauriel had a general idea of what would happen, and with so many dams filing her in on the more…unsavory…portions of labor, she things she has a good handle on what will happen. Besides, Kili promised to be right beside her the entire time. With Kili at her side, Tauriel can endure anything.

"Got any questions lass?" The old healer gave Tauriel a small smile.

Tauriel shook her head. "No Oin, not that I can think of at the moment."

"She's been spending a lot of time with mam and the dams. I think they have filled her in, and she has been filling me in." Kili grimaced but placed his arm around Tauriel who watched him with a smirk. The dwarf has seen bloody battles, but squirms when she talks about childbirth. She will never understand males.

Oin hummed, smirking at the prince's sour look. "Oh aye. Not a place for the faint hearted, a birthing room." The healer turned his eyes to the eleth and gave her a reassuring smile. "Ya won't be alone though lass. I heard yeh asked Dis teh be in the room."

Tauriel nodded. "And Kili of course."

Oin sat up straight and shook out his horn before putting it back against his ear. "Great forge and fire, I think me horns gone bad again. Though' I 'eard yeh say Kili will be in the room."

Both Tauriel and Kili gave the old healer a look. "Indeed I did say such a thing. Kili will be beside me Oin."

Oin, however, shook his head vehemently. "By Mahal he certainly will no' lass. A birth is no place fer husbands or mates. Let me and yer mam handle it."

Kili folded his arms and glowered. "I think I can handle my child's birth Oin, and I will not allow for my wife or I to be parted when she needs me."

"Don' be foolish lad, yeh know our ways." Oin sighed, clearly getting exasperated by the couple.

"I will not argue this Oin. He will be there." Tauriel's eyes were filled with fire as she glared at the old healer while lacing her fingers with Kili.

But Oin met her glare head on. "An' I say he will no'. Trust me on this lass. It is fer yer own good an his. Mates are NEVER allowed in the room. They get in the way and cause more fuss then necessary. It is just not done. I will say no more on it." Before Tauriel or Kili could argue further, the old healer rose and left the room.

It was never finished though, and had now become a regular argument between Tauriel, Kili, and the old healer who was as stubborn and immovable as the couple. They were clearly at an impasse, and none were willing to budge.

Even Dis and Thorin tried to reign down the couple's tempers. "Oin is right my darlings. The only males in the room for a birth are the healers. Vili was not at Fili's. You will be fine Tauriel. I will be beside you the entire time."

Kili was not impressed and set his brow in a hard line. He had hoped at least his mother and uncle would be on his side, but that was in no way the case.

Thorin placed a firm hand on Kili's shoulder. "I am sorry Kili, but Dis is right. We will be near, let Oin and Dis do what they need to. Trust in the way things are done. There are reasons and purposes we keep traditions, Kili."

Nobody said anything about Thorin being present at Kili's birth. It was a horrific event and Thorin still had dark dreams of Kili not making it or Dis dying in childbirth. Both were very real and present realities at the time. No. Best keep Kili out of the room. Even when there are no traumatic events or health issues involved birthing is still, in itself, traumatizing.

Kili slumped back. Naturally, the prince never gave up nor did his princess, but regardless of who they spoke to, they were always told the same thing. A birthing room is no place for mates.

One week later, Kili was officially cleared to walk with a cane, which did raise his spirits quite a bit. He reveled in being able to finally go down the stairs and excitedly joined in on meals in the main hall. Oin also said it was okay for Thorin to add some of Kili's royal duties around the mountain back in, as long as Kili remembered to be cautious on the stairs. The permission was given with a threat that if he fell and broke that leg again, Oin will be cutting it off completely, causing the prince to gulp but nod in understanding.

Threat aside, Kili's freedom meant he could also join in on walks outside the mountain with Tauriel, who would have preferred a brisk morning ride to the walking. However, she was strictly prohibited by not just Oin, but Kili, Thorin, Dis, and Fili from riding Galaddal. "All it takes dear is one spook and you falling to the ground. It is too much of a risk, I neither want you nor the baby harmed."

Tauriel had sighed at Dis, but since everyone agreed with her, the eleth was on the losing side of a war she was too exhausted to fight at the moment.

At least she was not barred from walking, and her and Kili were often joined by Viltarra and Fili on their cold morning walks. Fili never seemed very happy about this though. When Kili questioned his brother's sour mood on their first walk together, Tauriel leaned down whispering "Dis insists they not be allowed alone yet." Kili shrugged deciding to let it go and just enjoyed being outside with his growing family.

Another week went by, and still no baby. Tauriel impatiently marched the halls practically from dusk to dawn. Kili at first tried to insist she relax and rest, but Oin had said walking would be good for her, and Naurfaer of course backed him up saying Ithildin used to walk for miles nearly every day when she was expecting. Like mother, like daughter.

A system was set up as well, to alert the family when it was time. If they were not together, or in the family wing, one person would run up to the royal chambers to retrieve Kaw, who would be sent out to inform the furthest member of the family who would gather all they could on their way to Oin's office.

However, despite everything…the planning, the walking, or the days that went by, Tauriel seemed no closer to going into labor. Apparently, her son just did not want to be born. If Legolas's prediction ended up being correct, she would have to kill her childhood friend as it would have been his fault for putting it out there in the universe.

Feeling restless and uncomfortable, Tauriel slid from the bed. Kili had been getting around so well, he sometimes did not even bother with his cane that sat in the sitting room of their chamber. He still slept with his leg elevated, however, as all his walking caused a good amount of swelling, which Oin said to expect as his muscles got used to being used again. She leant down and placed a kiss on his forehead and grabbed her cloak to go for yet another walk.

The halls were empty as she made her way down the stairs of the royal wing and past the guards, each giving her a nod in passing. "Lady Tauriel. Would yeh like me teh get someone teh accompany you?"

"No, thank you Andar. I just need a small walk. I will not go far." The guard nodded and went back to his post as she turned a corner. She walked down many hallways and corridors, but nothing seemed to cure her restlessness, so she went to see Galaddal who knickered softly at her touch. "Nice to see you too my friend."

Tauriel rubbed her horse's nose and fed him some carrots from a pail nearby, making sure to give Maryn some who was prancing in the adjacent stall. The workers in the stable smiled at her as they mucked the stalls and brushed the many horses of Erebor, as well as getting a few re-shoed it seemed. So they mostly ignored her apart from a passing greeting. She felt a small nip on her sleeve and turned to see a long haired Rhya leaning in. Tauriel chuckled going to gather more carrots for both Rhya and Kit as well, who eagerly ate every one from her hand.

Looking out, she heard a soft howl. She had yet to meet Naurfaer's warg pup he affectionately called Hirilhelvicorn but typically shortened it to Hiril or Lady in her native language.

Placing the now empty pail down, Tauriel went towards the small pen and peered inside, looking for signs of life. At first, she didn't see anything, but then out of the corner of her eye she saw a bounding pile of fur running towards her.

Hiril certainly was nothing like the many wargs she had slain during the battle, and before, throughout the plains of Arda. Her cream and tan fur was thick, her ears slightly pointed, and she had a very fluffy looking tail. The small warg approached Tauriel quickly at first, then slowed and bent her head down in caution when she realized it was not Naurfaer.

Hiril's pointed ears were flat against her head, but she didn't growl or make any noise. Taking caution to the wind, Tauriel stuck her hand into the pen in a placating and inviting manner. The warg stepped back at first, then slowly it brought its black nose up to her hand and gave a sniff before deciding Tauriel was not a threat and rubbing her furry head against Tauriel's palms. She really looked nothing like the wargs ridden by the orcs.

Naurfaer was right, she was quite small, even for a pup, and her face was less, twisted, and more natural for a canine like creature. She was stockier and definitely larger than a wolf though…even now. With how docile she was being, Tauriel did not deem her as dangerous in any way.

A few of the stable hands came to check on her, but the eleth would waive them away, so they continued to go about their business and let her be.

Tauriel remained with Hiril for a bit before the sun beaming down at the stable entrance and pen was much too inviting for the elf to ignore. So, she happily stepped onto the path and further into the warm rays.

Days like these were rare in winter, and Tauriel could tell even without looking that the snows were coming any day now. Therefore, the eleth wanted to take every advantage of the winter sun she could get and began walking down the path that led to the main gates to the mountain, eyes closed and head tilted up towards the sky. Kili would kill her if she went too far, but, it felt so nice to be outside in the sun.

"Tauriel? What are you doing out here?" Tauriel opened her eyes and looked down at Viltarra who held a basket under her arm. She could smell the musky herbs and soil coming from the dam and the basket. She must have been gathering fresh herbs as she was known to do for their family's breads and rolls they sell in their bakery. With the weather getting colder every day, they will soon need to switch to using the green room for what they needed, at least until spring brings the natural herbs back.

Sighing, Tauriel realized she had been caught. She knew Viltarra was team Fili, and Fili was team Kili, and team Kili was completely against ANYTHING that could put Tauriel at risk…which included outdoor walks alone…like the one she was on now. "I am afraid I could not resist the warmth. Are you on your own?"

Viltarra shook her head. "Da is just up the path. He has been coming with me since…you know. I think he is worried something else might happen." Tauriel gave her a knowing look as Viltarra continued with a smirk, her eyebrow raising accusingly. "In fact, he was the one who saw you, I just came to retrieve you. Kili is going to have your neck for this you know. Fili too likely."

Ah, yes. Her jailers. She was allowed to leave the wing and had free range of the mountain to walk BUT she was explicitly forbidden to leave the front gates. Well, Tauriel thought with a smirk, she did not go through the front gates…she went through the stable. Nobody said anything about leaving the mountain through the stables.

Despite her internal musings and arguments, she sighed and nodded to Viltarra. "Yes, you are probably right." Viltarra smiled and turned to head back to her father and re-enter the mountain.

"So much for a nice outdoor stroll hm?" Tauriel rubbed the swell of her son and took a step but doubled over then fell to the ground in pain. Her startled yelp alerted Viltarra who was just a few paces ahead.

The young baker immediately dropped her basket and ran to her friend. "Tauriel?!" She looked at the elf clutching at her stomach and lifted her head to call out to her father. "DA! Something is wrong!"

Vin ran over, having dropped his own basket, and knelt beside Tauriel, taking her in before turning to his daughter. "Viltarra, go get Fili and Kili. Looks like we may have a little one making an entrance sooner rather than later." Seeing Viltarra hesitate, Vin said a little more sternly, "Go daughter. I will take her to Oin." With that, Viltarra ran.

"Can you stand?" Tauriel looked up between her hair and thought for a moment. The pain was, unique. It came in waves, unbearable one moment, then dulling the next. She nodded and let Vin help her to her feet and they made the slow trek back to the mountain.

Really, they were not far from the gate, but Tauriel's constant need to stop with every wave of pain, made it feel three times longer than it was. Vin noticed a pattern and watched her with worry. It was long ago, but he remembered Viltarra's birth.

Tarrah would have the same waves of pain, the closer they got, the closer it was to the baby coming and Tauriel was stopping nearly every few minutes. "Not good." Vin mumbled but did his best to keep Tauriel calm. Stressing her out would only make things worse for her and the baby so instead he stood by, encouraging her the best he knew.

Tauriel hurt. Her son was, upset, and panicking, his fears bleeding into her mind. She needed to rein in her feelings and work on calming him before they both ended up in danger of losing their lives.

"TAURI!" Tauriel sighed, never happier to hear Fili's voice. "Whatever happened to STAY IN THE MOUNTAIN!" Fili did not wait for an answer instead he scooped Tauriel up and carried her the rest of the way inside where Kili was limping forward looking a mix between frustrated and happy that they found her.

"We need to get her to Oin! The lass does not have long before that babe is born." Kili stared at Vin but jumped into motion.

The younger of the two princes made to take Tauriel from Fili, but Fili rolled his eyes at his brother. "You can barely carry yourself; I have her Ki. Let's go!"

Vin looked around not seeing his daughter anywhere. Assuming she had been the one to alert the two princes, he figured she should be with them. "Where's Viltarra?"

Fili called back to Vin, "She is sending Kaw to get Thorin and is going to find Dis and Naurfaer." Not waiting for a response, Fili turned his attention back to getting to the healers as soon as possible without jarring Tauriel more than necessary.

They ran into the empty office and Fili placed Tauriel gently on a bed. "I will go find Oin. I will be right back."

Tauriel turned her green apprehensive eyes towards her husband. "Kili, I am sorry."

Kili took her hand in his and brushed some of the loose hair away from her face. "Shhh. It is fine. I am not mad. Just, focus on breathing okay."

Unable to stop them, tears were already making their way down Tauriel's cheeks as she clutched at Kili's tunic. "Don't leave me."

"Never amralime. I am right beside you." Tauriel nodded and released him when the wave of pain dulled and she focused all her energy once more on trying to calm her son whose fear was running rampant through her system.

Footsteps came rushing in and Oin ran to the other side of the bed. "It looks like its time fer a wee one to come hm?" He then turned to Kili. "Yeh know the rules, out with yeh." Kili began spluttering protests, but Oin refused to concede pointing at the door.

"NO!" Tauriel cried out just as Dis ran in, Thorin and Viltarra trailing behind. Tauriel did not want Kili to leave, they did not understand. She needs him. He can't go.

"How far along is she?" Dis asked, looking at Tauriel's pained features.

"Further then I woulda liked. Looks like her water jus' went." Oin sighed, then turned frustrated eyes to Kili first, then back to Dis. "Tell yer son teh bugger off. He and the rest of them needs teh wait outside. This is no place for them."

Tauriel grabbed for Kili once more, but he was out of her reach and neither the healer nor her dwarven mother heeded her pleas for him to stay. Instead, Dis went to work pushing them all out.

"It is for the best Kili. You don't want to see this." Kili tried protesting once more but the door slammed in his face, muffling the first of Tauriel's screams.

Kili slid down the wall and buried his hands in his hair. He ignored Naurfaer coming and asking how everything was going, neither did he hear Tarrah and Vin trying to reassure the young prince this was a natural part of birth. Each cry, each scream, each yell was a tear and crack in his soul. His one needed him, but he was barred from entry.

"Don't worry Ki, just think, in only a small amount of time, you will have a new life to look after." Fili was trying to calm Kili, but nothing was working. Thorin had tried as well but gave up when Kili just seemed…unresponsive.

Kili looked up, his dark eyes glaring at Fili. "What would you feel in my place? Unable to be beside the one you love, even as she cries out for you? Torture Fi. That is what this is."

Fili cast his eyes down, Viltarra's hand was firmly in his and he tried to imagine himself in Kili's boots. Had it been his own one in that room, crying out for him, he would have gotten an axe by now and bashed the door down. Ohhhhh….he thinks he understands now. Wrapping his hand around Viltarra's waist, he pulled her closer to his side.

Kaw was pecking at the base of the door croaking "nana" over and over until Naurfaer stood from his place on the ground and guided the bird onto his shoulder, leaning against the wall. They all cringed again when Tauriel gave a yell that echoed through the halls even with the door closed.

Oin gave Dis a worried look. "This is no' good. She is loosin' energy too fas'." He turned sad eyes to Tauriel, the lass did not look good, she should not be this spent yet. "Yeh need to push lassie."

Tauriel slowly shook her head and closed her eyes. She had nothing left. "I can't Oin."

Dis wiped the perspiration off Tauriel's brow and stroked her hair lovingly. "You are so close my dear. You can do this."

Tauriel tried to give another push but fell back, tears falling from her eyes. She could feel her son crying out, most of her energy had been spent trying to sooth him. Now, she had little left to give to either him or herself. What's worse is she was beginning to see spots before her eyes. If she did not hurry, she would lose consciousness and they would both be in trouble.

Oin took a step back, wiping his hands. "Let's give 'er a moment, Dis. Best yeh go outside and tell them wha' is goin' on before they bash me door in."

Looking from Oin to Tauriel who had tears streaming down her face mixing with the drops of sweat, Dis nodded. Her daughter's eyes were currently firmly set on the door to the hallway where Likely Kili was waiting, she would not doubt for a moment Tauriel knew exactly how far away from her he was. The dam took the eleth in, and to Dis, she looked way too run down. Making up her mind, she went to go speak with her family outside.

The door opened and Dis stuck her head out. Everyone perked up for news but the look she gave them was not a good one as she stepped out and shut the door. "Tauriel is losing energy too quickly. The babe is in good position, but, she lacks the strength to go on. They both will be lost if we cannot get this child delivered and fast."

Dis turned to Kili and knelt down at his feet, grabbing his hand in hers. "Come, my son. Your one needs your strength." No one said a word, instead they all just watched as Dis pulled Kili to his feet, then through the door, before it closed gently behind them once again.

Seeing that Dis was not alone when she returned, Oin glared daggers at the princess of Erebor. "Dis, tha' was no' what I sent yeh out for. It is not done. Mates in the room."

Dis just tutted and pushed her son to Tauriel, but kept her eyes on the old healer. "It will be done for them. Let them be Oin and let us focus on getting this baby born."

Tauriel had just closed her eyes when Dis left the room. At the moment, all the sounds around her were muffled and hazy, and her vision was blurred and dimming. She felt a pair of familiar hands cradling her face and she opened her eyes, blinking several times to clear the spots and focus on Kili. Her Kili.

"Amralime." Kili purred. "Come my love. You must push."

Tauriel tried to suppress the sob that escaped her lips. "It hurts Kili. It hurts so much, and I am so…so very tired."

Kili kissed her brow. "I know. But he needs you to find the strength. I know you have it. You are the strongest person I know. You can do this."

"Don't leave. Please." Kili nuzzled the damp hair at her forehead and whispered, "never", against her warm skin.

Oin sighed, giving up his fight with Dis, and turned to the young prince. "Kili, if yer goin' teh stay, get behind her. Show her yer strength and help guide 'er along lad."

Getting in her other side, Dis helped Tauriel lift herself and shift forward just a bit as Kili climbed behind his sweat soaked elf. As soon as he was settled, Tauriel lay back against his strong chest as he laced his fingers with hers and brought them together in a tight embrace.

Oin nodded and got back into position. "Alrigh, when I say lass. Yeh need teh push. Understand? Kili, yer goin' teh coach her."

Dis grabbed some dry blankets and warm water bringing them over just as Oin instructed firmly, "Now…push lass. With all yeh got."

Kili could feel Tauriel tense up as she pushed, bracing herself against him. "That's it amralime. We can do this together." He knew she was exhausted, but she seemed to have found her strength and braced herself for another push.

Tauriel filled her mind with Kili. The minute he climbed behind her she threw the doors open to their connection and drowned herself in his strong presence, feeling her mind merge with his in a way she did not know she was even capable of until this moment.

Oin did not understand their connection. Nobody knew she needed Kili in a way they could never comprehend. He was her foundation, strong and secure. With him holding her tight, and her mind latching onto his, she waited for Oin's call and gave everything she had. A wave of pain hit her hard, causing ringing to fill her sensitive ears, then, the ringing gave way to the most beautiful sound she had ever heard. The first cry of her son.

"It's a boy. Congratulations lass, and Kili, yeh have a son." Oin beamed, lifting the babe for the parents to see.

Kili cried, kissing Tauriel everywhere he could reach as Tauriel's head fell back onto Kili's shoulder, her brow soaked, her chest heaving, and her system completely spent. "You did it you amazing, beautiful, wonderful creature you. We have a son."

Oin cut the life cord and with a blanket passed by Dis who had tears streaming down her face, he swaddled the sobbing infant and passed him to his parents. Kili had helped Tauriel sit up just enough to receive her son for the first time, Kili looking over her shoulder proudly at the small pink bundle.

"Hello, my precious little darling. Welcome to the world." The infant continued to fuss in her arms even as Tauriel stroked his red cheeks and smiled at the thick, dark, nearly black hair on his head. Beaming, Tauriel looked over her shoulder at her husband. "He has your hair Kili."

Kili hummed and let one of his fingers trace a small, pointed ear. "He has your nose." At Kili's voice, the child stilled completely and attempted to open his eyes. Kili could not contain the sob that vibrated through his chest or the tears that fell from his eyes. He was perfect. Completely and utterly perfect.

"Oh…Kili, Tauriel, he is so beautiful." Tauriel looked up at Dis, still smiling despite her exhaustion. She cannot believe he is finally here.

"Should I go tell the others laddie? Or do you want to? There is one last unpleasant thing teh do. If it is well with yeh Tauriel, Kili can take the wee one out for a tick as we…get this last bit taken from yeh." Tauriel nodded and scooted forward enough to let Kili out.

Kili gently took his son from her arms, minding his head, then placed one final kiss on Tauriel's brow, his lips lingering as he whispered, "I will be right back."

Oin watched the new father leave the room, but stopped Dis from following him. "Dis, do yeh mind stayin' and helpin' get things cleaned up?"

"You do not even need to ask." She watched her son step out the door as she turned to help her exhausted daughter.

Everyone looked up when Kili finally reappeared, this time with a wriggling bundle in his arms. "I would like to introduce you all to my son."

Thorin rose and stepped towards Kili, who passed the infant to the only father he knew. "Remarkable Kili. You did well son. You did well."

The company must have come in his absence, as the hall was now filled with dwarrows from the door to the bend, all peering around the other to try and get a peak.

Even Leotti was standing in the mix. She brought a basket up to Kili, placing it on the ground to throw her arms around the prince. "Congratulations Kili." She pulled away and lifted the basket once again. "I thought I would bring some clean and comfortable things for Tauriel to put on, if I may be allowed in. I also brought a soft blanket for your new one and some fresh linens."

Kili nodded, more than touched, as he thanked Leotti for her foresight and kindness allowing her to peak into the room. Dis waived her in immediately.

When Kili turned back to his family and the company, Fili was cradling the now sleeping child, Viltarra at his side leaning in as she gently moved the blanket away from his face to see the babe for herself. Fili was rocking him back and forth as if it was the most natural thing in the world, and Kili could easily see his brother holding his own child just the same way.

"I wonder how long it will be before you are in my place." Kili sent Viltarra a knowing glance, causing her to blush scarlet and hide her face in Fili's sleeve.

Fili, however, ignored the comment and instead looked from the babe to Kili and smiled softly. "He is incredible Kili. But so small."

Kili could see the tears misting Fili's eyes as he looked back down at the bundle in his arms, so Kili placed a hand on his shoulder and smiled. "You're an uncle now Fi."

"And you're a father." Fili lifted his eyes to look at his brother. He was so proud of Kili, he knew, without a doubt, his little baby brother will make an exceptional father.

They laughed softly, and Fili readjusted his hold on the baby to pass him back to his father…if not a bit reluctantly. "I never thought I would feel this much love for such a small life. Ki, he is amazing. Truly."

Kili accepted the infant only to hand him off to his great grandfather who had not said a word as he took the swaddled babe who by some miracle, was still asleep.

Naurfaer, like everyone, had tracks of tears falling from his face. Kili tried to remember if he had ever seen Naurfaer cry, but no memory came to mind.

"He looks like you Kili. Quite the spitting image. Except for the ears. It seems like he got a healthy mix of you both there, large like a dwarrow, but slightly pointed like an elf. Adorable, but not in a way he will ever stand out. Astounding, truly." Naurfaer looked up from the babe to Kili. "A perfect miracle." He breathed out.

Kaw, who was still resting on Naurfaer's shoulder, gave a soft purr and looked down. His head twisted from one side to the next as his small black eye's attempted to get a peak of what was within the bundle. He remained quiet, however, only eliciting soft calls and coos until Kili took the child.

Before anyone else could come forward, Leotti opened the door. "She is all ready. Kili, why don't you come back in first and Dis said we can slowly let others in until you and Tauriel deem it too much."

Kili nodded and re-entered the room and smiled at his wife, who was waiting eagerly to receive her son, though she did nod her head very subtly in Dis's direction. So, rather than going to Tauriel, Kili instead moved to his mother and placed the bundle in Dis's arms. "Congratulations, gran."

Dis let out a small sob but held the babe in her arms. "Beautiful. Perfect and beautiful. I am so proud of you both. You have made a gorgeous babe. What did you decide for his name?"

Kili took the infant back and brought him over to Tauriel's waiting arms. She had changed into the gown Leotti brought and moved to a different bed that was a little softer, and clean. The eleth scooted to make room for Kili who did not need to be told twice as he took his place beside her.

Dis brought over the thicker, but soft blanket Leotti had also brought for the newborn, and gestured to the bundle. "May I?" Tauriel nodded, relinquishing the child once again with a sigh. "Sorry dear. I need to clean him up, and we can get him re-wrapped in this."

While Dis walked across the room, Tauriel burrowed herself into Kili as they waited patiently for their son to be returned, both watching as Dis expertly washed him causing the infant to startle awake and release a good, strong, cry.

"Now now, let gran clean you up then you can go back to your mam and da." She re-swaddled the crying babe and gave him to Tauriel who cooed at him, soothing his cries. Kili's hums stopping them completely.

"Mam, will you bring Thorin, Fili, Naurfaer, and Viltarra in? I want them to hear the naming. You can stay as well Oin. He would not be here without you, nor would I." It was true, several times over. Oin was there to help deliver Kili into the world and he had been the one to know how to restore the life back to Dis's unbreathing child. Touched, Oin pulled his trumpet from his ear and nodded.

The small blonde dam who was still standing quietly in the room, made for the door behind where Dis stood. Tauriel may be her best friend, but this was a moment meant for family, and Leotti in no way wanted to intrude. "I will just…"

"NO, Leotti, you too. Please, stay." Leotti smiled and turned back towards the bed, waiting beside Oin quietly as Dis reopened the door bringing the family, including a surprised Viltarra in.

Viltarra had no idea she would be allowed in for this. She may not observe ALL of the dwarven customs, since her family did not regularly live in a settlement, but even she knew how special the naming of a dwarven child is. The first, official, presentation of the name is strictly meant for family only. She was just courting Fili, not a true member of the family. Yet, with Fili's hand clasped in hers, she let herself be pulled inside, away from her father who hushed out, "Well, go on.", when she looked back at him.

Once everyone was gathered, Kili looked to Tauriel who gave him a nod okaying him to continue.

"I wanted you all to be the first to hear his name. Allow me to formally introduce the newest member of the family, Finli. Fin for short. It is Tauriel's father's name, Findyyr combined with my father, Vili. Two great men who fought for their family, but neither able to see what their sacrifices wrought. I am honored to bestow it on my son."

Naurfaer smiled wide, pulling Dis close as she cried in both joy and pain for her lost one. He shook his head, still smiling, as he realized that it seemed he did not win Kili over after all, and now he needed to RE embroider those blankets, but, he could not have even considered such a fitting name. His son in law would have been beyond touched.

"It is perfect." Dis finally muttered, wiping the tears from her eyes. Oh, her beloved Vili. He would have been such a wonderful father. She is incredibly fortunate that her brother stepped up to the task in a way she could have never imagined, however, Dis knew without a doubt that Vili, her Vili, would give up his place in their ancestors halls just to spend one day with his sons.

Placing a comforting hand on his sister's shoulder on his way by, Thorin stepped forward and up to the two parents, stroking Fin's cheek tenderly as he spoke. "Welcome Finli, son of Kili. Prince of Erebor." His rumbling voice had Fin opening his eyes enough to look up at Thorin as he grasped the king's finger with his tiny hand. Thorin melted and he watched as the infant closed his eyes once again and fell asleep, Thorin's finger still held firmly in his small grip.

In small groups, the company was let inside and introduced to Finli. He slept through the entire thing up until Aeodhen came in with Shaada at which Fin decided to wake and begin wailing. Aeodhen smiled knowingly, "I know tha' cry. I think yer lad is hungry." Dis chuckled from across the room as the couple excused themselves giving Tauriel privacy to nurse her babe.

That seemed to be the pattern for the next several hours, close friends of the family were allowed in to see the couple and little prince Finli. At least until evening fell, at which point Oin announced enough was enough and had Bofur and Bifur stand out in the hallway to send anyone else coming, away. Even Leotti had gone back to her chamber, though she did promise to bring some more fresh clothes for Tauriel tomorrow, her friend smiling gratefully.

The family, however, stayed. Thorin rested in a chair with his feet propped up on the bed Dis was resting in. Naurfaer was in a chair rocked back on its back two legs, as the elves own much longer legs were resting on a table.

Fili had taken up a padded bench against the wall that doubled as a cot when the office got too many dwarves needing aid, Viltarra had fallen asleep with her head in his lap eliciting a disapproving look from Dis, though she kept her comments to herself.

Before she closed her eyes and fell asleep, Viltarra had half expected the king to throw her out, but Thorin either did not notice or did not care as he currently held Fin while Kili and Tauriel slept. So, she settled herself comfortably, and had fallen fast asleep with Fili running his fingers through her hair.

The young prince was rather amused as he lifted his eyes from Viltarra's sleeping form, to see Naurfaer looking at Thorin, jealously. "I think it is my turn Thorin. Hand him over." The elf whispering as he spoke, as to not wake anyone currently sleeping in the dimmed healer's office.

Thorin however, looked darkly at the elf, his response was a quick and curt…"No."

Fili snorted. His uncle could be a dwarrow of little words.

"Come on Thorin. You cannot keep him all to yourself." Naurfaer whined like a 10-year-old rather than an…however old he was.

"King. I can, and I will." Thorin hummed, not even looking at the petulant elf.

"There is something to be said of Durin stubbornness Naurfaer. You should know by now that you will not win this." Fili mentioned, still playing idly with Viltarra's hair as she slumbered. He looked up at the elf who slumped back in his chair, and stared at Thorin who was smiling down at Fin as the infant looked up at him, wide awake.

It took two days for Oin to release Tauriel back to her rooms, her family remaining with them her entire stay in the healing office. Their first night in their own bed chambers, Kili gave Finli his inner name, as requested by Tauriel, something linked to his own, Lakhadkhajmel, The brightest of all gifts. Finli was their gift from Mahal and the Valar. When he was old enough, Kili would sit his son down and explain the importance of his inner name, but for now it was more for himself and Tauriel, then for their slumbering son.

When Tauriel was finally able to move around easily by the end of the week, Thorin, Dis, and Balin had pulled them into the common sitting room.

Dis was the one to step forward, a soft smile on her lips as she spoke. "It is a long-held tradition in Erebor to announce and welcome a newborn from our family. Our little Finli is not only the newest son of Durin, but, also the first babe to be born in Erebor in over 170 years. That in itself deserves a celebration. With both of your permission, we would like to hold an official announcing and welcome, along with a great feast at the end of the week."

Tauriel smiled at Dis. "It would be a great honor. I am sure many would like to see him. His arrival has been much anticipated, and not just by us."

It was true. One only had to look at the wager to figure that out. Speaking of the wager. Tauriel knew she did not win, but was curious on who gained the substantial pot. "OH, do either of you know who did end up winning? Finli's birthday wager that is?"

Balin smiled and Dis grumbled as Thorin beamed. "That would be me."

"I lost by hours." Dis stated.

"You should have bet with me, dear sister. I offered. But I clearly remember you refusing, then rather smugly adding a second bag to the pot." Dis glared at Thorin and Balin laughed. The group then went into detail at what to expect for the ceremony.

As it went, Finli was carried into the golden floored throne room by Kili, Tauriel at his side. Thorin stood proud before his throne with Fili and Dis by his side and Naurfaer happily taking his place beside Dis as great grandfather, all waiting to accept the little dwelfling. The room was filled to the brim, dwarrows and dams alike doing all they could to get a peak of the newborn prince.

Tauriel gave a smile to Viltarra who sat in the front row. She was not yet allowed to stand up with the family as her and Fili are only courting, but she was given a front seat with her parents and Leotti. The company was just behind them, all beaming as Tauriel and Kili passed by.

Kili and Tauriel both stopped at the bottom of the stairs waiting for Thorin's approval before ascending to stand directly in front of their fatherly uncle.

Thorin stepped forward and smiled down at Fin who scrunched up his nose, the key signal a mighty wail would proceed. He chuckled and let his finger graze the infant's cheek. "Shh. We must make a good first impression little one."

Fin calmed instantly, reaching for his grandfather's finger and clasping it tightly before Thorin pulled away and turned to the silent crowd. "For 171 years, this mountain had been home to ruin. It was cold, silent, and lifeless. Now, Erebor is filled once again with warmth, with the singing of her people, and the heartbeat of life thriving deep in her halls. What a better blessing from Mahal then a gift we were presented with less than a sennight ago. The first child to be born in these halls in over 170 years. It is my great honor to present to you our future made secure. Another son of Durin has been born, please rise for prince Finli, son of Kili."

Kili stood tall and proud as he gently and securely lifted a squirming Finli for all to see as row by row, the dwarrows of Erebor stood and bowed their heads to honor the new prince.

The proceeding feast did not last a night, or two nights, it lasted an entire week. Thorin had explained to Tauriel, who was quite aghast at how much ale was being consumed in the name of her infant, that the first true prince of Erebor had been born within its halls in nearly two centuries. Celebration is expected and no race enjoys celebrating as much as the dwarrow.

Despite Thorin's words, however, Tauriel rarely attended herself, opting to sit quietly in her room with her little Finli, nursing. He certainly got his appetite from his father.

"Here you two are. Not hiding, are we?" Kili stepped into the room, shedding his coat and boots as he joined them on the bed. He leaned in and drew Tauriel into a lingering kiss before pulling back and tickling Finli's little feet which were peeking out from the blanket Ori had made. Fin moved his foot away but continued contently filling his belly.

"I think seven nights of feasts, songs, and dancing is my limit meleth nin. I felt a quiet night in was in order. I apologize for not informing you. It was a last minute decision." Tauriel leaned into Kili beside her who had opened his arms enough to pull her and the still nursing Fin into his hold. He hummed and watched his son, leaning his head against Tauriel's.

Tauriel turned just enough to kiss Kili's head and looked back at their son who had fallen asleep, full and content. She did not even have to look at Kili to know he had fallen asleep as well judging by the slow even breaths she could feel coming from him.

As gently as possible so not to wake her sleeping husband, Tauriel extracted herself from his arms and placed Fin in the cradle Kili had made for him. She pulled up the blanket and brushed a hand across his cheek, leaning in to place a kiss in his dark hair.

Smiling to herself, Tauriel walked back to the bed and crawled in. She wound herself around Kili and quickly followed him into peaceful rest. They had their family, their mountain, and their little Fin. Their world was perfect.

Somewhere, not far from Erebor, inside a small fortress, a figure stood staring out at the trees and valleys beyond his glassless window.

"The child was born, meh Lord."

The figure shifted his dark eyes to the prone figure behind him. A pathetic creature really, this dwarf with scarring down his face and missing eye. Fear and gold was all one needed to manipulate and gain power over these mortals, and this dwarf was decidedly easy to sway.

Of course, he will be exposed of rather soon, mortals are rather flighty, and their loyalty is owed to he that pays the highest coin for it. Still, he was, at the moment, continuing to be useful, so he will keep him around for…oh….a week or so, or at least until he gets bored of the creature, Vyken, he believes his name to be…not that it mattered to him. "And?"

Shifting, Vyken spoke. "Male, meh Lord. Another son of Durin."

Disgusting. A half breed on its own was a worthless being, but a half-breed dwarf and a son of Durin no less? His master will be displeased if this were to grow into something. He needed to come up with a plan. "Get me a meeting with Saruman."

"Yes, meh Lord." The mortal creature bowed and scampered from the hall, his raven with the jagged beak following as he went. Dwarves, he hated dwarves. But, it was useful to have one in his pocket for events such as this.

Turning back to the window, the imposing figure thought about what to do. This will need to be delt with without delay. Azog failed to get the mountain and gain control of the line of Durin, or destroy them. But he, will not.

THE END OF ACT I

Authors Note: Okay, so yes. I do write ahead…but this is as far ahead as I am at the moment. I usually write most of the story I want, then pass it to my sister who gets first reading dibs. I guess you can say she's my beta reader :D. She points out if I am missing anything (and usually makes me add in more Fili and Viltarra so you can thank her for all those moments added in. I originally made this as a Kili/Tauriel fic, but it expanded tenfold to a Kili/Tauriel and Fili/ Viltarra thing with Dis and Thorin in the mix. My fault, I like them all XD). Once I get her okay, I go back over the chapter once more to add in a few details, fix some more spelling and grammar (but not all because apparently, I was never destined to be an editor), and post it all for you to see. That is my process. So it may be a few weeks or so before I post again because I need to get ACT II going.

Still so much more ahead. Don't think I am stopping with Kili and Tauriel only having one either. We got more dwelflings in the future, maybe some dwarflings. Of course, since it is the line of Durin, also danger, adventure, and family moments.

Will Dis and Thorin really accept Viltarra? Who is after the line of Durin once again? They may be safe in the mountain…but what happens when they leave? More adventure, love, and family antics ahead with ACT II of Reforged and Strengthened….eventually.