Naerwyn spoke softly to the woman while Fili approached. Mostly about the orc attack. She explained it in great detail to the Lady, despite the indecent actions of the orcs. It was strange, but the Lady filled in the details that Naerwyn could not. As if she had been there. It was hard for Naerwyn to go through the events again and was given several minutes to regain her composure.

Once she had it, the Lady took the conversation in a very different direction. One Naerwyn wasn't prepared for.

The Lady's voice was soft, musical even. She stood next to Naerwyn and placed a hand under her chin to raise her eyes, "There is something else. Something weighing heavily on your mind. A man?"

Naerwyn's breath hitched and her thoughts went to Fili. Her thoughts were full of him. His voice, his touch, his eyes. She took a careful breath and her thoughts drifted again, to his lips. She knew better than to think such things in the presence of the one woman in Middle Earth capable of penetrating thought, but she couldn't help it.

Thorin watched Bilbo leave, then looked back to Ammie. He smiled softly, "I am glad to hear it." He glanced down to the tray when she mentioned it, "Ah, yes. I brought you something light." He went over to the bed set the tray down on the bedside table, then sat down next to her. "It looks an absolute mess. Forgive me. Damn these Elves. Always making simple things a production." He shook his head and poured her a glass of water and offered it to her, "The weather still looks dreadful. Is the thunder still bothering your head?"

Fili's face wrinkled at Naerwyn's detailed description of the orc attack on her party and kin. The thought of such atrocious things occurring in Naerwyn's presence, and those monstrous beings daring to harm her almost fatally, caused Fili's insides to sear with rage. Were he ever to come face to face with such beings again, much less the ones that attacked her, he would cut down as many as he could. The discourse between Naerwyn and the strange newcomer sounded formal, however. This led Fili to believe she was not Naerwyn's mother, but rather a superior. Her voice was musical and entrancing...Her speech contained a strange power Fili had never before heard within words...Not even from Gandalf.

Suddenly, the conversation switched abruptly to a surprising topic--one suggesting the strange elf woman had some telepathic abilities. She spoke of something weighing on Naerwyn's mind, such as a man. Fili's cheeks immediately reddened and he wondered furiously if the elf could also sense his mind and presence despite hiding in the room beyond. He very nearly turned and retreating, afraid to hear what Naerwyn had to say about him...Or rather, if she said anything at all. And then, of course, there was the question of her superior's opinion of Naerwyn fraternizing with a dwarf. Still, something kept Fili right in that spot. He wanted to know what they would say about him, or if they would say anything at all. Perhaps it was foolish of him...But he could not help himself.

~~~

"It's all right," Ammie reassured Thorin with a shy smile. "I've never seen this manner of food before. I probably wouldn't be very good at assembling it, either. Not that I can't cook. I can. Hobbits know how to cook a lot of things, naturally, on account of our fondness for food and multiple meals in a day." She cleared her throat nervously, once more realizing that she was rambling...As she often did. She either could barely speak to the dwarf king or spoke too much. There was never an in-between, she found.

Ammie had finished her cup of tea before Thorin arrived, so she gladly took the glass of water from him and brought it to her lips. She thought that it would do her some good, to have liquids, because she was probably quite dehydrated after the events of the previous night. The hobbit girl downed half of the glass and set it on the nightstand before taking the tray into her lap. She probed the food with her fork and cut the folded pancakes into smaller pieces, and then speared some to put it into her mouth. "It's so good," she sighed, and began to eat more. She wasn't so queasy as when she'd first woken up, so hopefully she would not regret eating the entire thing so quickly.

After finishing, Ammie moved the plate away and fixed her eyes on Thorin timidly. "No, my head doesn't hurt as much as before, and there's been less thunder. Maybe that means the weather will improve soon. I do hope so. I was very excited to see the Misty Mountains up close. How was your breakfast?"

Naerwyn sighed lightly and moved away slightly when the lady withdrew her hand. She looked out over the city and tried to assemble her thoughts. She braced herself on the railing and closed her eyes, fearful of what the Lady might think when it came time to admit the truth, "Yes, my Lady. There is a man."

"Some good, then, has come from this tragedy. Your heart has found hope in another. Hope that the world has not grown dark for you." She spoke lightly and followed her to the railing. "I sense that your heart is troubled. You are troubled by this man. Tell me why."

Naerwyn nodded lightly when the Lady spoke. She watched the rain and what she could see of the waterfalls from her position on the balcony. She sighed heavily and gripped the hand rail. She was going to make it quick and as painless as possible, "He is a dwarf, my Lady." Naerwyn gave an exhausted huff and turned slightly toward Galadriel. Forgetting herself, she blurted out what oculd only be described as word vomit, "I know what you would say! Before I had met him, I would have said the same thing, but he is different! He is caring. Gentle. Unlike any I have met before."

The lady frowned and turned to Naerwyn again, "And what of the Marchwarden?"

Thorin nodded lightly and watched her start into the pancake, "I am sure you are a wonderful cook. I do not doubt it, in fact. I have heard storied about a Hobbit's fondness of food and their skill at preparing meals. You remember, of course, that I was in a Hobbit's house."

Thorin nodded lightly when she told him that the pain in her head had lessened. When she mentioned it, he, too, noticed the drop in the thunder's frequency. He was glad for that. He gave her a shrug, though, "I am not sure when we will leave. Perhaps in the early evening. By then, your strength may improve."

When she asked about his breakfast, he gave her another shrug, "It was fine. I had a few of those, but nothing more."

Fili's heart did flips in his chest, but for several reasons. First of being that, as expected, Naerwyn's superior would bear issue with his race. The second, more positive, was that Naerwyn tried to reassure the woman of his virtues. Third, the stranger mentioned the Marchwarden as if he would interfere with their union... Was the man who Naerwyn's father selected...The strict Marchwarden who Naerwyn had mentioned before in conversation? The one who would not allow him past Lothlorien's borders were he to seek her after the completion of his uncle's quest? It was disheartening to hear, to say the least, but he lingered... He wanted to listen to the conclusion Naerwyn drew, and then the final opinion of the fair lady with whom she spoke. He wanted some hope, yet. Then... Then he would leave before Naerwyn could see him.

~~~

Ammie smiled, pleased by Thorin's compliment. She would have to show him just how skilled she was at cooking, she thought. She had already offered to assist Bofur in that area, and even if she could not yet fight at least she had that ability to lend to the company. "When we continue our adventure, I will cook. You will see what I mean. Bilbo has nothing on me," Ammie boasted. It wasn't empty bragging! She meant every word!

The female nodded. It would be better to leave sooner rather than later, particularly if she was improved enough physically by early evening. The food and drink would likely speed up her recovery...Having something else in her system besides wine. On that note, the hobbit poured herself some more water and continued to drink. However, as time passed, it became evident that something was troubling her. Her face did not hide her emotions very well. "Thorin, there is something I must ask you..." she said softly. "Do you remember what I told you last night? And what happened earlier this morning... What was that? What is...Happening between us?" She blushed darkly, averting her eyes. "I admit...I am very confused by it."

Naerwyn's change of mood could be felt in the very air. Before she was calm with some lightly fluctuating nerves. Now, she was frustrated, annoyed, almost angry. She gripped the hand rail again and huffed much like a petulant child, "I have said this many times before, though it seems no one will listen. I will not have my life planned for me. I am not incompetent. Alauriel chose her love and I will do the same." Her voice dropped to barely above a whisper, "I have done the same."

The Lady offered Naerwyn a comforting smile, "He will not be happy to hear your choice over him. His fierce dislike of their race will stand in the way of his understanding your happiness, as shall it be with your father. But, I feel, in time, they will come to understand why you have made this decision."

The Lady went quiet, allowing Naerwyn to comment on the impending arguments and drawn out lectures that awaited her in Lothlorien. The Lady turned from her, setting her sights on the door. A playful smirk spread over her lips and Fili will have heard her voice. Her lips never moved, however. Fili would hear this voice inside of his head, "I am sure you have heard everything that you wanted to. After so little time, she chooses you. I wish to see what has stopped her fragile heart in its tracks. Reveal yourself to me."

Thorin smiled and even chuckled a little. He stood up from the bed and looked down at her, "I look forward to it. A wonderful meal will raise everyone's spirits while we're on the road." Thorin pulled off his tunic and draped it over the chair Bilbo had occupied moments ago. It left him in a dark blue cotton shirt, draped over his broad chest with the sleeves rolled up to his elbows. He looked more relaxed than he had in days.

When he asked to speak with him, he sat down again, adjusting himself on the bed so that he faced her more fully. He listened carefully and his stomach flopped painfully in his gut. He knew this would come up eventually. He had hoped later rather than sooner, but he supposed it was best to get it out in the open.

"Yes, I do remember what you said to me. I admit, though, that I didn't put much stock into it when you told me. You being in such a...drunken state, of course." He cleared his throat awkwardly when she made mention of his actions earlier that day. He suddenly felt very ashamed of himself and despite his best efforts, his face turned a light shade of pink.

"Forgive me. I was too forward with my actions, wasn't I?" he began. He let out a small laugh that could have almost passed for a scoff, "I've behaved foolishly and for that, I apologize." He paused and his brow knit when she mentioned being confused over what was happening between them, "I admit, I am not sure what is happening between us. I have never felt like this before. You have stirred things inside of me I long thought were gone. For so long, all that has been on my mind was revenge and now...I cannot grasp solid thought!"

Fili's anxious nerves were soothed quickly after Naerwyn asserted she would make her own decision, and furthermore when the strange elf woman seemed content with her answer. He was just about to turn away and retreat down the staircase into the palace when he heard a voice in his head. It was an authoritative, echoing female voice greatly resembling that of the strangers'... It commanded him to come out of his hiding place, clearly stating:

"I am sure you have heard everything that you wanted to. After so little time, she chooses you. I wish to see what has stopped her fragile heart in its tracks. Reveal yourself to me."

So this was the elven witchcraft his uncle had spoken so often of. Who was this strange woman, then, capable of reading his thoughts and speaking directly into his mind? Fili swallowed anxiously and, with trepidation, stepped out into the open balcony as he'd been instructed. He dared glance at Naerwyn only briefly and sincerely hoped she would not be too angry at him for listening into their private conversation.

“I am sorry,” he said to both of them, and swept into a low bow. “I confess that my curiosity got the better of me. I shouldn't be poking my nose where it does not belong. I am Fili, of the line of Durin...Heir to Thorin, son of Thrain. He is not my father, but he is the nearest I ever had to one. If I may be so bold, my lady...I wish to ask with whom it is I speak.” He did not straighten from his bow until the woman gave him permission to do so. He wanted to make a good impression.

~~~

“Good to hear! I will have to think about what to prepare, then, based on our supplies. I will talk to Bofur about it later.” Ammie tried not to stare when Thorin removed his tunic. At first she panicked because she hadn't been sure if he was wearing another shirt underneath it; the fabric had been sufficiently thick to keep him warm. But she saw the collar of another shirt peeking out and mentally told herself to relax. Still, the shirt hung loosely on his broad chest and she could have sworn she saw the edges of tattoo patterns near his clavicle. He also had very muscular forearms. 'Stop looking!' her mind shrieked. 'He'll notice, and it's not proper! You are in a bed, in a private room, all alone! No one's going to come by unless he asks them to!' She tried to focus on the subject at hand, but even the subject was related to their growing, perplexing feelings for one another and Thorin's forward actions that morning.

Strangely, though, Thorin's cheeks went slightly pink after Ammie mentioned the kiss. She'd never seen the dwarf blush before now. He always acted so confident and in control of everything... Perhaps he was shyer than she gave him credit for. It made her feel a little better, and she thought to reassure him. “No, it's all right I...” She coughed, her voice suddenly very tiny, “...Enjoyed it.” She stumbled past that confession as quickly as possible. “As you have probably guessed, I am shy. No one has ever been interested in me like that before since I am very odd, so I was astonished, but not actually...Put off.” She smiled to convey she meant it, and then continued. “Perhaps for the time being it's better if we let things...Evolve naturally...We don't need to understand it, exactly. After all, we do not know each other very well. You are much different than the people back in the Shire and I think that's what I find intriguing. You're very confident and good at everything and I...” Ammie laughed and folded her hands in her lap. She looked down at them, unable to hold Thorin's gaze. “...I wish I was that way. I admire you.”

Ammie felt sad, to think that Thorin Oakenshield had spent such a long time empty and focused on revenge. Hate made people weary, and he had more hate in him than she cared to admit. “If you ever need to talk about what is troubling you,” she said finally, “Uncle Bilbo tells me I am a good listener.”

Naerwyn turned when Fili announced himself, shock written all over her face. She looked between him and the Lady and turned a very bright shade of red. After she had sung his praises, he was caught eavesdropping! She clasped her hands together in front of her and twisted them painfully.

A smile spread over the Lady's lips as she looked down to Fili. She was much taller than he was. She towered over Naerwyn as well, showing just how tall Elves can get when their blood was pure. She gave him permission to rise and spoke softly, "I am Galadriel, Lady of Lorien." She moved closer to him, taking slow and careful steps, "Tell me, Fili of the line of Durin, what are your intentions after your quest has been completed?"

Thorin's eye jumped to hers when she admitted that she enjoyed his kiss. His chest felt very tight and his stomach dropped suddenly. A grin broke out onto his face and he felt it grow a little warmer. His smile faltered, though and he found himself going right back to a frown, "You are not odd. Not in the least. Whomever told you that is a fool and you would do best never to seek their opinion again. You are not odd, Ammie Took. You are very endearing. Clever. Beautiful."

He nodded when she said that they should let things evolve naturally. Slowing down with benefit the both of them, "Yes, I agree. Letting nature take its course would be the best thing for us right now. And you will gain confidence and skill. Just think a little higher of yourself, Ammie. You are worth more than you give yourself credit for."

Finally, he smiled. Genuinely. A real smile, "Thank you. Truly. If I ever need someone to listen, I will come to you right away. That goes the same for you, you know. If you need someone to talk to, I would be more than glad to be that person."

Fili stood up straight when the elf granted him permission, noting the vast height difference between her and himself. Galadriel. Her name was familiar to him somehow, as if long ago he'd heard stories about her. Whether he knew or not, she was the Lady of Lorien, presiding over Naerwyn and all of her homeland. She had the power to tell both Naerwyn's father and the Marchwarden of their taboo relationship, if she so chose. It intimidated him, though he would not express those sentiments verbally. Surely she could sense them within his own mind.

Her inquiry, though, was terribly easy to answer. He would make his intentions known to both the Lady of Lorien and Naerwyn. Naerwyn already knew, up to a point, and he assumed Galadriel had to based on her telepathic ability. Still, it would be heartening to say directly and aloud.

Fili smiled confidently and asserted, "After the completion of my journey, I will come to Lorien seeking Lady Naerwyn's hand... Even against my Uncle's wishes. I will prove myself worthy to her father, even if I have to fight the Marchwarden to demonstrate it."

~~~

Ammie became bashful at Thorin's kind words and reassurances. She grinned and flushed with pleasure herself. She also liked it quite a bit when he himself smiled. He was exceptionally handsome when he did. "The entire Shire thought I was odd, except for Uncle Bilbo. But that's all right. I'm happy to be this way. I don't think it's a terrible thing at all, because it seems to make you smile. I like when you smile, Thorin." She paused, basking in the sound of her name on Thorin's lips. But she wanted to tell him...Since he might as well know everything about her.

"My name is Amarantha," she said. "It's too formal of a name for me and I don't generally like being called by it...But someone might as well know. No one aside from Bilbo knows about it in our group." The girl snorted and shook her head. She felt a bit exhausted again, but was hesitant to go back to sleep. She enjoyed the dwarf's company too much. She liked to see that her personality had a positive effect on his spirits.

Ammie settled back into her pillow and sighed contentedly. "Let's see...Since I told you that, tell me something about you that not many people know. Please?" She attempted not to let her eyes drift to Thorin's chest and the hint of tattoos...Though she wondered what sort of tattoos they were. Dwalin had tattoos, too, but on his bald head. Were they common amongst dwarves?

Naerwyn feared that Galadriel would find Fili unworthy because of his choice to eavesdrop, but after what he said, she couldn't have cared less. He was going to come to Lorien and marry her. It was the sweetest, most romantic thing anyone had ever said to her. It was just like her sister's romance. It was spontaneous and romantic. Her heart warmed in her chest and she almost felt tears coming on.

Galadriel smiled again and nodded very lightly. She knew he was intimidated by her, but she would never call attention to that fact. Was she going to tell Naerwyn's father and the Marchwarden? Yes, she was, but it was not as if she was going to run back to Lorien to tattle on them. Galadriel was going to give Naerwyn's father fair warning simply because she didn't see Naerwyn returning home immediately. She gave them both a warm and friendly smile, "I have heard all that I need to and now I must take my leave. May your journey be blessed, Fili. May you be brave, no matter what you face." Her smirk was similar to that of Elrond when the Lord of Rivendell spoke to Fili that morning. Fili would have felt his mind flutter and the image of himself kissing Naerwyn will have floated into his mind. And without another word, she swept out of the room. Just like that! Such a strange and mysterious woman, she was.

Thorin smiled again for her. Since she liked it so much, he offered her another true smile. He found it so easy to do in her presence. He was so relaxed around her that he could smile freely, "I will try to do so more often, then. Since you like it so much." His smile never faltered when she told him more about herself. He repeated her name softly, "Amarantha. It is beautiful."

When she asked him to tell her something not many knew, he truly had to think. So much of his life was an open book. He found himself becoming the tiniest bit frustrated until he caught her looking at his chest. His tattoo. She must have seen it.

"Well, actually," he began, "There is something that is apart of me that not many see." He grasped the collar of his shirt and pulled it down some. His chest was hardly exposed, but enough of it could be seen. He had a large tattoo covering his chest. Thick black lines ran up and down, back and forth across his skin. She would have been able to see one crest in the middle and part of another on each side of it. The lines making up each crest were interwoven with the lines of the crest beside it. Even that small glimpse of it was amazing. "Each of them represent a member of my family. Myself in the center, my father and Grandfather on either side. Below them, my sister and my brother. And below them, still, the crests that Fili and Kili bear. All of them woven together in an intricate pattern. So that, truly, I am never apart from them. I have them with me always."

The image in Fili's mind stole his breath as Galadriel swept away and disappeared down the staircase. Honestly he felt that these two elf rulers, Lord Elrond and the Lady of Lorien, were quite the matchmakers! Neither of them had been particularly troubled by his romantic involvement with Naerwyn. In fact, they spurred him on almost shamelessly! Not that Naerwyn knew this, but it would be ever at the back of Fili's mind. He thought that, since both of them had imparted their blessing, he might as well comply to their suggestions.

“Well, now you know everything,” the blond dwarf prince chuckled, taking a couple of measured steps toward his fair companion. “Elrond consents to us. Your Lady Galadriel approves... Now I need only sway Uncle Thorin and your father.” He noticed the tears glittering in Naerwyn's eyes... Her adoring expression betrayed that they were tears of joy. Fili took her face between his hands, brushing the tears away gently with his thumbs. “I am confident that I will succeed,” he chuckled. “Because I am determined to have you.”

Fili leaned in slowly, tilting his head so that their lips almost brushed against one another. “And, since we are alone, I can finally do this.” He closed the distance between them to steal another kiss.

~~~

Ammie nearly swooned when Thorin promised to smile more often for her. At least now, in her presence, he made good on that promise. In fact, the smile never seemed to fade from his face. It surprised her, that she had the ability to make Thorin happier and feel things he had not felt for many ages. She took pride in it now, actually. “That's very kind,” she gushed. “I will continue to be silly, then, to make it easier for you.”

Ammie scoffed when Thorin said her full name was beautiful. “It's fine, true, but I prefer 'Ammie',” she admitted. 'Amarantha' was nice on its own...But it was a regal name for someone possessing far more grace and loveliness than herself. For example, a tall, fair human woman might have suited 'Amarantha' better. As a young hobbit girl, she could be described as small, cute (at best), cheerful, and clumsy... Also good qualities, but of a different nature. Therefore 'Ammie' fit. It pleased her to be called Ammie. Even if it resembled a nickname given to a little girl, it worked well enough for her.

She blushed vividly when Thorin pulled down his collar to display the tattoos signifying his family. She admired his loyalty to family ties and the affection he felt for his immediate relatives. “You must care about them a great deal,” she breathed, “To have had such an elaborate design drawn into your skin like that. Wasn't it painful?” The glimpse of his defined pectoral muscles, however, caused Ammie to lift the bedsheet over half of her face. Thorin was too alluring of a man for her frail heart to handle. Another awkward subject arose in Ammie's mind, and it dawned on her that it was rather important that she know the answer. “W-What will the others think...” she murmured, voice muffled through the blanket. “...Of this between us? Should we keep it secret?”

Naerwyn tried to blink back her tears and smiled gently at him. When he took her face into his hands, she sighed contently and slid her hands onto his chest. She brought herself a half step closer to him and took a steady breath. The scent of him was almost intoxicating. He smelled of rich spices, musk, and something she couldn't quite place. It was a scent she would never forget. She smiled again when he mentioned having to convince her father, "I will do everything in my power to convince my father that you are worthy of being my mate. It was as if lightning struck me when I saw you and no other man could ever make me feel the way that you do. We may have met but a day ago, but it feels like I have always known you. I am sure all of this sounds foolish, but nothing makes sense about this." She let out a small, breathy laugh, "That is why it thrills me so."

She sucked in a short breath when he leaned in. Her stomach flopped around and she felt her heart flutter in her chest. Her eyes fell closed when he kissed her and she relaxed in his arms. She slid her hands down and around to his back, allowing their bodies to become flush with each other.

Thorin smiled sadly and righted his shirt, tugging it back into place. He didn't make eye contact with her yet and sighed a little, "I love my family so very much. Fili and Kili are all that I have left." He looked away, not wanting her to see his eyes misting. The thought of his father and Grandfather always did that to him. Even after so many years. Taking half a moment to compose himself, he gave her an awkward, titled smile, "Now you see why I was so hard on Fili. I only want what's best for him. Being my heir, I want to make sure he makes the right choices."

His face fell and he touched the center of the tattoo through his shirt, "Nothing will ever be as painful as losing them."

His face held its serious expression and he looked her in the eyes, "I do not care what the others think. It is my life to do with what I please. And that is the end of it." He paused suddenly. How familiar. Had Fili not said almost the same thing to him the previous night? Thorin cleared his throat lightly and continued, "Unless, of course, you would be more comfortable keeping it a secret. What will your Uncle say?"

Fili grinned at Naerwyn's confession and successive encouragement. She wanted to marry him as much as he wanted to marry her, and she would be his ally in convincing her father of his worthiness. He was confident that if they worked together and had the blessings of both Lord Elrond and Lady Galadriel, it surely wouldn't be too difficult to persuade her father. Maybe it was premature of him to think so. After all, he did not the man and he'd already been described as strict. But surely a prince was as respectable as a Marchwarden? “I am so pleased to hear you think so,” he murmured against her lips. “I was struck dumb the moment I saw you as well. Enamored instantly. Maybe it was a spell. Did you cast a spell on me, fair one?”

Fili laughed and drew Naerwyn closer, bringing his hands down from her face to her upper arms. Finally, they slid slowly to her waist and rested there...Fili drew a shallow breath, filled with the elf's lovely floral scent, and reclaimed her lips. He felt her hands moving to his back and he deepened the kiss, moving his lips more intently against hers. All coherent thought slipped away, and he could only contemplate the softness of her mouth and the warmth of her body. His flesh seared with longing, limbs tingling with the desire to press her body as tightly to his as possible.

~~~

Something about Thorin's posture changed when he mentioned how much he loved his family, and how only Fili and Kili remained. He could no longer look at Ammie directly, and she feared maybe it was because the memories had brought forth emotions he usually preferred to suppress. She remembered what Fili had said in the woods, about the orcs killing his grandfather and father. She also remembered that Thorin held the elves, namely Thranduil, responsible for their subsequent deaths. Thorin's mood had altered drastically and she felt partially at fault. She wondered who Thorin turned to, when he was overcome with grief... He had to act responsible for Fili and Kili, perhaps to the point of hiding his weakness. Ammie could only imagine the extent to which Thorin had bottled all those negative feelings inside, steeling himself to be a stable ruler both for his nephews and his people. So many burdens to shoulder, yet no time to lay them down and relax...What was more, he had no one to break down beside, assuming that even his mother, too, had passed away long ago. It must have been very difficult to be a king.

Ammie, overwhelmed by sympathy, let the blankets drop away from her. She crawled towards Thorin and threw her arms around him. She hugged the dwarf tightly, just like she had the previous night, and turned her face against his neck. It was truly painful to see him, or anyone, in this sort of state. She wanted him to go back to smiling. She really wanted to ease some of that weight on his shoulders. “I'm sorry,” Ammie said, and she really meant it. “I can't imagine what it must be like. Nothing like that has ever happened to me, but I think I would feel exactly the same if it did. I believe your nephews love you a lot, even if you argue sometimes.” Ammie sighed, and pulled away slowly, but allowed her hands to linger on Thorin's shoulders. “Uncle Bilbo already knows. He figured it out much faster than the others. I think he is confused by it, too, but he won't stop me. We're very close in age and I don't think he wants to interfere unless I myself have a problem with it. I don't.” She blushed and smiled shyly.

Naerwyn melted against Fili and found herself having to grip the back of his coat to keep herself upright. His arms were so warm and inviting and the feeling of his body against hers was too much. Her eyelids were too heavy to open and she shivered against him when he spoke, his lips brushing against hers, "I would never cast a spell against you, Fili. Never."

When his lips claimed hers once again, a tiny breath of a moan escaped her. It shocked her some and made the flush in her cheeks darken. One hand moved from his back, around to his stomach, and up chest. It came to rest on the side of his neck, her thumb brushing against his earlobe. Her lips moved in perfect sync with his own. She was learning fast.

It would be an understatement to say it shocked him when Ammie threw her arms around him. He hadn't be expecting it, but it wasn't unwelcomed. Thorin's arms encircled her, holding her tight to his body. It was not an act of lust, but one of comfort. He found comfort in her arms. He hadn't felt like that in a long while. His chest tightened and burned with the force of holding in his emotions. He wouldn't cry. Not in front of her. He admitted that it would probably make him feel better, but he would do it alone. He wouldn't make himself look weak in front of her.

When she pulled away, he looked into her eyes, his own slightly glassy. he blinked away the premature tears and took in a slow, calming breath. He nodded at her words and muttered a 'Thank you'. He looked troubled, though, when she spoke of Bilbo already knowing. So that was why Bilbo had been shooting him glares and avoiding him. He nodded, though and gave her a small smile when she admitted not having a problem with her feelings for him, "I am glad for that. And I will not take offense if you'd like to keep it from the men for a while longer. If you'd rather sort things out before telling them."

Naerwyn's improvement had not been lost on Fili. He was acutely aware of her hand on his neck and the other gripping the back of his coat as their lips moved in unison. He groaned softly in appreciation, and despite his best intentions, was unable to stop his eager hands from traveling down her waist to grasp her hips. He caressed them through the thin fabric of her luxurious green gown, tracing slow circles against her skin. He broke away from Naerwyn's lips with a wistful sigh and pressed hot kisses along her jaw. His mouth traveled to the nape of her neck and then back to her mouth. He skimmed the elf's lower lip with the tip of his tongue, gripping her hips and pulling them tightly against his.

Fili's mind was gradually becoming more and more feverish with desire, and he realized, somewhere in the back of his mind, that he needed to stop before he carried things too far. With great effort he managed to separate his mouth far enough from the maiden's lips to speak, though his voice came out ragged. “P-Perhaps we should...*gasp*...Go back downstairs...W-With the others...”

~~~

Ammie wouldn't have minded if Thorin cried in front of her. She could tell that he wanted to, but refrained perhaps due to manly pride or some equally ridiculous notion. She wouldn't press the subject, however. He had clearly been comforted by her embrace, even if just a little, and that was all that mattered. She'd managed to cheer him up somewhat. Which was good, because... Ammie was feeling rather tired again. Despite hobbits and their frequent occasions of merriment, she actually hadn't suffered through a “hangover” before. Perhaps because she'd never had as much alcohol as she had the night before.. Four man-sized cups were like twelve cups for a hobbit. Hence, her resultant biological situation today was quite confusing. One moment she'd felt queasy, the next sleepy, suddenly wide awake, and now sleepy again.

“Perhaps it's better to take the middle road,” Ammie reasoned, stifling a yawn against the back of her hand. “We won't deny it, but we won't draw attention to it either. I don't want to make anyone uncomfortable by sitting them down to tell them about it, you know? We just act as usual, and if anyone asks...Then we tell them.” She smiled serenely, but was nearly sedated by an abrupt wave of fatigue. Ammie's eyes shut for just a moment and her body swayed haphazardly, which caused her to jolt awake again. “Sorry,” the hobbit murmured. “Anyway...I-I think I should be fine to leave...by this evening...as long as the weather clears up...My headache h-has...Improved...And—Zzz...” The hobbit female's eyes slid shut again, and this time she swayed further, actually collapsing back onto the bed with her hands still loosely planted on Thorin's shoulders. She appeared to have dozed off and gave no indication of waking up again immediately.

Naerwyn's mind was completely blank. Vast and empty. She had no idea what to think and cared very little about anything but what was happening in that moment. All she knew was Fili. All she cared about was Fili.

A tingling sensation shot through her body when his lips left hers. His mouth trailed kisses down her jaw, leaving fire in its wake. She let out a tiny mewl of appreciation and sighed lustfully. Her skin burned and her limbs went numb. Her entire body ached with desire for him. It was almost enough to frighten her. She almost wanted to ask if it was actually Fili whom was casting spells. When his lips found hers again, she was surprised to feel his tongue against her. Letting out the tiniest of gasps, she opened her mouth and in a way, invited him further. His kisses paired with the way his fingers traced the skin of her hips was too much. And then he pulled her trembling body closer still. She was pressed flush up against Fili. She could feel every muscle in his chest while it pushed hard against hers as it rose and fell with each gasping breath he managed to get in. She could feel his stomach against hers and the rippling muscles beneath his shirt. And she could feel him even lower still. That knocked the last comprehensive thought from her already clouded mind. She was clay in his hands to do with what he will. Her hand gripped his shirt harder now and the hand that was caressing his face went to his shoulder. She was trembling and feared that she would hit the floor if she let go of him.

When he pulled away from her and suggested they go back downstairs, she could do nothing. It took a long moment for her to drag her eyes open and nod dumbly. She dared lean forward again and very gently, her touch as light as the wind itself, brushed the tip of her nose against his. Her cheeks were still very red and may have darkened further still. A lopsided grin broke out across her face and she found herself still panting, "Yes. ..Yes, I think that is wise."

When Ammie mentioned taking the middle road, Thorin nodded. That was best. They wouldn't be admitting anything, but at the same time, they wouldn't be lying. He liked that plan very much. He only hope Fili wouldn't be further on his case about Ammie while he cried about leaving the elf behind.

Thorin nodded, listening to her about leaving by the evening. She was getting tired again and he found himself laughing lightly when she nodded off and then snapped awake again. He smiled again when she toppled backwards, dead asleep again. Chuckling quietly, he tucked her back into bed and leaned down. He placed a gentle kiss upon her forehead, then picked up the tray with her dishes on it. He carried it back to the dining hall where a young female elf took it gravciously and carried it off to the kitchens. Glancing around, Thorin stepped up to the table again and stood behind Kili, "Alright, lads. I think the weather is breaking, so we should be all set to leave in the early evening. Any objections?"

None of the dwarven company seemed to have much issue with leaving in the evening. They'd already had extra time to relax and recuperate, and since many of them enjoyed the company of elves as much as Thorin did, were antsy to get a move on. The only problem was...Gandalf had once again disappeared and no one seemed to know where he'd run off to.

Bilbo was not in the dining room with the others anymore. He had returned to Rivendell's library for a last minute perusal of the books. He copied from one frantically into a journal of his own. Bilbo thought, if he had to be on adventure, that maybe some good would come of it. Perhaps he would have an interesting story to turn into a novel. Apart from that, reading and copying allowed him to vent stress. He was quite anxious about Ammie and Thorin, even if he would not openly admit it to her. Ammie was correct to say that she was a relative nobody in comparison to the dwarf king and he highly doubted that anything good would come from their romantic involvement. He did not look forward to picking up the pieces when the relationship failed one day.

As for Fili, he somehow managed to get Naerwyn and himself back inside the palace and in public. It was difficult to calm himself down after their “moment”, and even while they sat within view of various elf servants, he kept stealing glances at the woman and admiring things like the curve of her neck, the smoothness of her skin...The silhouette of her dress... He tried to converse with her as a distraction, but it was difficult and not always effective. Sometimes he hated his male mind.

~~~

Hours later, closer to dusk, Ammie awoke with a start. She'd been having a dream about farming carrots on a mountainside and Thorin appearing to try and carry her off as his queen. In the dream she refused him, saying she was but a poor carrot farmer and had no business with kings. Then Uncle Bilbo had shown up and started pulling out her carrots so she wouldn't have a reason to stay behind. A strange dream, indeed... She also remembered falling asleep in Thorin's presence earlier that day, and slapped her hand to her forehead in exasperation. She embarrassed herself so frequently it was getting to the point of ridiculousness!

Ammie dragged herself to her feet and made the bed. She slipped off the dress the elves had lent her, folded it up neatly, and left it atop the sheets for them to collect later. She set to dressing in her usual male garb by first binding up her chest and tugging on her loose trousers. She slipped on her white blouse lazily and did up the buttons. She didn't hear any more thunder or rain outside, so perhaps the weather had cleared up as they'd all hoped.

After they returned to the palace, Naerwyn took Fili to the library. She didn't say a word, just gently pulled him along and through the ornate doors that hid the books within. She Brought Fili to an empty table and motioned to one of the chairs. She then swept off, disappearing into the many rows of books. She returned after a quiet minute and set down a small stack of books. They were few in number, but they were large, heavy, leather bound tomes. It was surprising that she managed to carry them all that way by herself. Although, strength does like to hide in the most unlikely places.

Naerwyn spent the afternoon showing Fili sketches of her home land. She showed him what the city of Caras Galadhon looked like inside and out. There were pictures of the large, ancient trees they lived in, the houses they'd built into the trees, and the ornate bridges between them. She even found a picture of the palace where Lady Galadriel lived with her husband.

It was after that that she rushed off and came back with a bottle of ink, a quill, and a spare bit of parchment. Taking her time, she copied a very vague map of the outer borders of Lorien. She put no indication how far in any of the cities were and labeled nothing. She drew the rivers, some trees, and a few unlabeled landmarks. She measured the northern border of the map and using her best educated guess, placed a tiny X along the edge of the forest. She allowed the map to dry and explained to Fili that when his quest was done, he was to go to that spot after sending a message ahead to her. It was a small outpost of the Galadhrim. That particular outpost did not house the Marchwarden and she explained that his lack of presence would aid Fili in getting into Lorien to see Naerwyn.

Fili would notice, too, that when speaking of his quest, Naerwyn only spoke in absolutes. 'When you have succeeded..' and 'When you come back..'. She didn't want to think about the likelihood of Fili dying. She didn't want to think of his body lying in a tomb, deep under the earth, for her heart would go with him. Childish though it may seem, it comforted her. She had to remain positive and hopeful that Fili would return.

The entire time Naerwyn was teaching Fili of Lorien, she had a sinking suspicion that he wasn't paying much attention. She would catch him watching her and not the book she was showing him. It brought a blush to her cheeks and a smile to her rosy lips. It was in that moment that Naerwyn would have given anything to remain there with Fili. Safe and happy in Rivendell.


Thorin had spent most of his afternoon packing this things and fending off overly attentive Elf servants. He'd decided to take advantage, though, of Elrond's offer to make use of the bath house.

He had to explain, twice, that he didn't want the blue eyed young maiden to make off with his clothes for a good washing. They weren't particularly dirty, but in truth, he just didn't want her touching them. He wasn't comfortable with his personal belongings going off out of his sight with an elf. To appease, them, however, he told them that he had another set of clothes he intended to change in to. They wouldn't come out and say it, but he knew they were thinking how stupid it was to bathe and then put dirty clothes back on your clean body. Damn these elves and their stupid bathing rituals.

Once he'd gotten rid of them, he stripped down and stepped down into the pool of piping hot water. He relaxed for a while against the side, enjoying how the water eased the tension in his sore muscles. Feeling himself starting to drift to sleep, Thorin shook himself awake and began using the provided oils and soaps to make sure every inch of him was clean. The oils were too flowery for his liking and he used very little of them. The soaps were pretty plain, thankfully. He didn't want to walk back in to see the men, smelling like a nance.

When he was bathed, dried and dressed, he went back to meet the men and even encouraged some of them to take advantage of a good bath. They weren't guaranteed the opportunity on the road. Some of them complied, the others grumbled and grunted, muttering things like 'I like a bit of grime!' and 'A little dirt never hurt!'

Thorin noticed Fili's absence when he went to send Kili to bathe. His nephews wouldn't have had a choice. They were his nephews and his mother would be so upset if her children were filthy. Reminding Kili of that, Thorin sent him off to bathe. He would have torn the place apart looking for Fili, but in a move that surprised himself, he didn't. He didn't want to start another argument over a silly woman he would never see again. Fili would resist harder and the resentment he currently felt for his Uncle would grow. Fili was like a son and he wanted their relationship to remain unbroken. If something happened to Thorin while on this quest, Fili would take the throne and he didn't want the new King to hate the old one.

When the sun crept closer to the ground, Thorin went to Ammie's room to check on her. His hair was still a little damp from his bath and he pushed it back off of his shoulders so it didn't dampen the fur of his coat. He knocked softly and eased the door open slightly, "Ammie? Are you ready to go?"

He stepped slowly into the room and closed the door behind him. He was pleased to see that she was up and dressed. She looked much better than she had several hours ago. He smiled warmly at her and smoothed some wrinkles out of his coat. They promptly returned. "Oh, good. The men are ready to leave. Just need to find a few stragglers. Your Uncle and our own love sick Fool, to name a few."

The sudden knock startled Ammie, who had but barely finished buttoning up her blouse. Without waiting for permission to enter, Thorin came sweeping inside. What good timing, she thought! A moment earlier and he would have seen far too much skin than was decent. She breathed a sigh of relief that hopefully the dwarf wouldn't ask her to explain, and flashed a nervous smile. “Just about,” the hobbit replied, wriggling into her vest and fixing the clasps in the front. “I think my bag is in the other room, but it should still be packed. I wasn't in the state to take anything out last night, if you recall.”

Ammie turned to Thorin but was struck immobile for a few seconds as she took in his well-groomed appearance. His hair was slightly damp, suggesting he'd just finished bathing and his clothes were straighter than usual. He smelled nice, even from a few feet away. Ammie cleared her throat awkwardly and began smoothing down her bed-tousled auburn hair in an effort to look less shabby in comparison...To no avail. Standing next to Thorin Oakenshield, clean or dirty, inevitably made one feel like a peasant. Golly, had anyone ever told him how infuriatingly majestic he was?! ...Oh, right. She had, actually. During her drunken stupor.

“Well, I don't know about Fili,” Ammie said, “But Uncle Bilbo is most likely in the library. Even at home he spends all his free time with books. It's why we get along.” She moved passed Thorin in the direction of the door, expecting him to follow. “Since everyone else is ready to leave, why don't we go get him?” she suggested. The girl stopped briefly in the next room to collect her bag and then led onward to the palace library.

~~~

Bilbo hadn't been paying much attention to the lovebirds lingering in the library along with him, though he'd noted their presence when they'd first entered. He still had a few pages left to copy, and mentally hoped that Fili's uncle wouldn't eventually drop by to yell at the boy again and disturb his concentration.

Fili was trying his best to appear fascinated by the pictures of Naerwyn's homeland, Galadriel and Celeborn's palace, trees, and houses...But she'd been correct in suspecting that he rather preferred to admire her visage. Their dalliance earlier remained fresh in his mind despite his best efforts to dismiss the memory. After he left Rivendell it would be an agonizingly long amount of time before he could hold her and kiss her again...How frustrating!

He did become more enthusiastic when Naerwyn drew the map of Lorien and instructed him on how to find her after he completed his quest. It seemed there was no question he would return, in her opinion, as she never used “if” when planning out their future rendezvous at the border of the forest. “Excellent,” he breathed, and set to rolling up the parchment. “I will assuredly send a messenger first so that you may anticipate my arrival.”

The doors of the library swung ajar with a creak, and Fili's blue eyes shot towards them with apprehension. Ammie appeared first, and sure enough, with his broody uncle in tow. They'd most likely came to the library seeking Bilbo, but in doing so Thorin had now caught Fili red-handed tarrying with the despised she-elf. Fili quickly stowed the map away in his coat breast before his uncle could see it. “Uncle,” he greeted flatly, but stayed seated beside Naerwyn.

Ammie hesitated in the doorway, wringing her hands together. The atmosphere of the room had turned quite tense. Even Bilbo was looking up from his book now, as if expecting some sort of showdown between the dwarf king and his heir. “It's time to go, Uncle Bilbo,” she squeaked quickly, before anyone else could get a word in.

Thorin followed Ammie through the palace and to the library. He wasn't at all surprised that he was in the library reading. That's what he had griped about missing before he signed on with his Company. While they walked, he peeked into the rooms with open doors, checking to see if his nephew had wandered off into any of them. His expression soured when he had no luck in finding Fili.

He was glad to have found Bilbo in the library, but he was shocked to find Fili there. Not that Fili was illiterate or a hater of books, but he hadn't expected Fili to have tucked himself away in the library. ..Until he saw the Elf. Giving her a long, hard glare, he walked up to the table, his boots falling heavily upon the floor. He looked down at Fili, "Nephew." The elf said nothing and kept her eyes on the table. She was afraid of him. As she should be. "Fili, go back to your room and pack. The rest of us are ready to leave."

Naerwyn smiled brightly while she told Fili more about her home. It was easier to explain it now that she had a visual aid to show him. She couldn't wait to show him around Lorien. She had no idea how she could survive all that time alone, waiting for him to return to her. And how would she fend off the Marchwarden and her father's silly matchmaking? Her face fell for a fraction of a second while she worried this, but she cast it out of her mind. She would worry later. For now, she could be happy.

Until Thorin came. Naerwyn winced with every heavy step from his boots. Her blue eyes were glued to the table while he approached and she didn't dare look anywhere else. When he instructed Fili to go and back, her eyes snapped up to Fili's. She frowned deeply and placed her hand on his under the table. She wanted to say something, but she was at a loss for words. What was worse, she feared what his Uncle would say.

Fili met his uncle's gaze, although in his peripheral he saw Naerwyn cast her eyes to the table. Her hand sought his and he took it, giving it a reassuring squeeze. "I finished packing this morning, Uncle. I only have to get my things," he said evenly and smiled with assurance. "Come, Naerwyn. We can continue our conversation while you can walk me outside." The blond dwarf stood and waited for the elf to take his side before sweeping out past Thorin. He had plans made plans with her for the future, so the king's rude behavior did not bother him right now.

Bilbo finished copying a final page and shut the book in his lap. He returned it to the shelf and then stuffed his journal back into a bag. "I'm ready to leave whenever you'd like," he said after Fili vanished. "I just need to pick my belongings up from the room." Bilbo started for the door, but hesitated. "Oh, yes, I almost forgot. Earlier Gandalf told me...To tell you...He would meet us in the mountains. Apparently he has some business to see to."

~~~

Within twenty minutes everyone had gathered outside of the palace with their things. They were ready to depart for the Misty Mountains as soon as Thorin Oakenshield gave the word. Elrond stood by to see them off. Lindir hung back behind him. He seemed bored and most likely would have preferred to be elsewhere if he'd not been instructed otherwise. Ammie stood next to her uncle Bilbo, who rested his hand comfortingly on her shoulder. The weather had, for the most part, improved. The sky was a dismal shade of gray and the landscape remained damp, but at least the rain had ceased.

Fili sat on a bench with Naerwyn close, but not too close, to the rest of the group. He saw his brother standing alone and felt a bit guilty for spending less time with him during their stay at Rivendell. Kili would understand, but it would have been better for him and Naerwyn to become friends given Fili's intentions. "I will come for you, you know," he assured her, holding her hands. He sounded more sure than he felt, but he would try his best to follow through on that promise. "This isn't goodbye."

Naerwyn feared that Thorin and Fili would be at each others throats, screaming as loud as they could. She was greatly relieved when they the screams did not come. She was sure the others were relieved as well. She glanced to Ammie and Bilbo as she left the library on Fili's arm.

As she traveled through the palace with him, it became all too real that he was leaving. He was going off on a great quest and there was a very real possibility that she would never see him again. That this moment could be the last one that she would ever have with him. She sat next to him, her hands nested so perfectly in his own. Her throat closed around an awful lump and tears invaded her blue eyes. They spilled down her cheeks, leaving trails of wet warmth. She sighed sadly, "W-what if you never come back?" She swallowed a sob, "What if I never see you again?"

Thorin stood at the head of their group, speaking briefly to Lord Elrond. Despite his distaste of Elves, it wouldn't stop Thorin from properly thanking the Elven Lord for not only housing his men, but feeding them, and providing them with homely services. Bathes and such. The two men conversed briefly after that and Thorin turned. He motioned for the group to start out of the city, counting them as they went. He gave a soft, warm smile to Ammie as she passed him, hoping the men wouldn't notice. He didn't want to have to explain anything so soon.

Fili's heart wrenched painfully in his chest when Naerwyn began to cry. His blue eyes stung with unwept tears of their own. He dabbed lightly at the elf's cheeks with his sleeve. "Shh, don't think that," he said, "You must believe that we will see each other again. Pray for me. I will come back...Just for you." The dwarf leaned in to give Naerwyn a tender peck on the lips before standing. He slowly freed his hands, allowing his fingers to linger against hers as he backed away...And only at the last moment did he turn to join the rest of his group. The future weighed heavily on his mind. It was if he'd left a piece of his soul there on the bench with Naerwyn. Would he truly be able to return to her? And if he did, would she be waiting for him? Or would she forsake him, like his uncle insisted she would? He fell into stride with his brother, sighing, and forced a smile. "I'll need to drink a lot tonight," he said.

As Ammie passed Thorin on the way out, he smiled at her. His smile was so warm and personal that her heart fluttered and her stomach did a flip. She flushed with pleasure, but was so distracted that her shoe caught on a pebble and she stumbled a few steps. Bilbo snorted and clapped a hand over his mouth to keep from laughing. The hobbit girl was so embarrassed that her entire face went red and she hid it behind her hands. Why did she consistently have to make a fool of herself in public?! She fixed her hazel eyes firmly ahead of her, towards the large mountains looming above. She soon forgot her ails and became preoccupied instead with collecting interesting rocks along the mountain path.

More tears spilled down her cheeks even after Fili dabbed them away. She couldn't stop them. Her mind was heavy with worry and her heart was filled with grief. He still sat before her and she felt as if she'd already lost him. It was so strange to feel loss, but she couldn't chase the feeling away. It wrapped around her, weaving through her and tightening around her very bones. It would remain until Fili came back to her.

Her heart fluttered when he leaned in to kiss her, then promptly ripped in half when his hands left hers. She watched him back away, then turn to keep up with the group. She stood and watched him go, but wasn't able to bear it for long. She turned and rushed back to the infirmary.

Kili was near the back of the group, hanging back a bit until Fili caught up with him. He was glad to be leaving Rivendell and had a bit of a spring in his step. That is until he saw his brother's face and heard his comment. Kili glanced back in time to see Naerwyn hurrying away. He frowned and clapped a hand on his brother's shoulders, "I am sorry, brother."

He was quiet for a moment, being nothing more than a silent rock for his brother to lean on. He smirked some, though, and glanced to Fili, "Do you need a soft shoulder to cry on?"

Thorin noticed her trip and grimaced slightly. He shook his head and smirked a little, thinking of how embarrassed she must have been. He gave Fili a firm nod when he joined their group. He glanced to the elf as she retreated back into the city and followed his men out of Rivendell. He heard Kili teasing Fili and gave a small smile. Maybe things would get back to normal now.

Fili took comfort from his brother's hand on his shoulder and his condolences, even if they were but simple gestures.

The other dwarves around them were joking about various things...Particularly about the elves' ridiculous hygienic habits and lack of meat. They seemed especially glad to be out of Rivendell and back on the road to Erebor. One thing they could agree on, however, was that Lord Elrond had been a far better host than they'd expected...And less uptight than Lindir and the many servants working in the palace.

Fili stopped paying attention to their conversations, however, when Fili asked if he needed a shoulder to cry on. Fili grinned playfully and gave his brother a rough shove. "Shut up," he laughed. "Just wait until some woman steals your heart, and we'll see how funny you find it then!"

Ammie giggled a little at the two brothers bickering in front of her. She wanted to ask Fili about what had happened between him and Naerwyn in the end, but thought to give him some time with his brother first to improve his spirits. She'd also be unlikely to start training with Kili for a couple of days. Just how many more things would get in the way of Ammie learning to fight!? She hated feeling helpless...

Occasionally the hobbit would pause in her walking to pluck up a stone and examine it. "This is a nice piece of granite," she marveled, and held it out to show her uncle. "Look how big the crystals are! Quartz and feldspar." The girl grinned and, glancing around discreetly, pocketed the rock.

Bilbo laughed and shook his head, and then grabbed Ammie by the arm and forced her to keep moving along with the group. "Don't take too many! Your bag will become so heavy you won't be able to walk anymore!"

Kili laughed and gave his brother a shove in return. He jokingly called to the men, "Hold up, everyone! Fili needs a moment to weep sad tears!" Kili hoped the men wouldn't get upset and take offense to Fili wanting to cry over an elf-woman. He hoped they would tease their younger comrade and let it go. Kili really didn't want his brother to take any more abuse over his choice to pursue a woman he found attractive.

Thorin had warned the two Hobbits to keep up when Bilbo took a last lingering look at Rivendell. He walked close to Ammie while he picked up rocks and admired stones. She commented on color patterns, shape, weight. It was almost remarkable. She could have passed for a Dwarf stuck in a Hobbit's body. He didn't say anything about her impulsive rock collecting habit as of yet, though. He let her enjoy it for the moment. Perhaps he would scold her when she started filling everyone else's pockets with stones.


The company walked for hours, talking about this and that. Some quipped jokes they'd been saving about the Elves in Rivendell, others talked about their plan to wait for Gandalf in the mountains. A large topic among the men was what they were going to have for dinner. Bofur talked about whipping up another stew for them. He said it would take no time at all and it'd fill them up well. As the men started into the mountains, the rain started again. At first, it was light, then started to pick up. Thunder and lightning ruled the skies, warning them of what they may face while on the Mountain.

They had no idea what was ahead of them. ..Nor what was behind them.